Fashion on My Terms: Dressing with intention & self-expression

I’ll admit — when it comes to lifestyle blogging, I can be a little lazy about what this niche seems to require. I see people hustling, posting their outfit of the day every morning. But girl, there are times I don’t leave the house for two days. I’m in PJs, the only accessories I’m rocking are my glasses and my Kim K Pro Beats. So I thought it would be fun to do one of these posts — but my way. A little glimpse into my style over the past few months during the project I worked on, plus the personal style tips I actually live by.

I don’t follow trends or style rules. I follow instinct. If it speaks to me, I wear it.

I don’t have a single aesthetic. Some days I’m oversized and cozy, some days I’m fur and sequins for a photoshoot in my basement. My closet isn’t about proving consistency or chasing trends — it’s about honoring every version of me.


I’ll never say no to a good skinny jean; it’s that classic piece that just feels like me.


When it comes to tops, I always gravitate toward sweatshirts. They’re cozy, versatile, and forgiving in all the right ways. T-shirts work my nerves. I’ve got love handles, and for some reason, t-shirts love to spotlight them more than I ever asked for. A sweatshirt gives comfort and confidence in one piece.


But my overall favorite will always be a jacket. Jackets are my secret weapon — they pull an outfit together instantly, and they make even the simplest base look like a whole moment.


I don’t follow style rules, and I don’t obsess over designer labels. If a piece is cute and it speaks to me, it’s mine. Period. Black bottoms are my anchor and everything else builds on top of that. And here’s something I’ve learned: building your own style with intention takes time. I always try new things, even if they don’t work out — because at least then I know what doesn’t feel like me. One time I wore a matching top-and-bottom set, and I was told  I looked like a curtain. I laughed — and I couldn’t unsee it either. They were donated quickly. But that’s the point: fashion isn’t about perfection, it’s about discovery.

Personal Style Tips

1. Have a base bottom.
For me, it’s always black. Pants, jeans, or shorts — they go with everything and give me a foundation to build on without stress.

2. Have a cheat piece.
Mine is a jacket. They instantly elevate a look, and give me the confidence I want without forcing me into silhouettes that don’t work for my body or my comfort. Plus, they’re versatile — I can throw one on for any occasion even to look like I tried when I’m running errands.

3. Have your go-to shoes.
These are the pairs I trust to pull everything together. The ones I know will make me feel secure, stylish, and comfortable, no matter what I’m wearing on top.

4. Accessorize with purpose.
Even the simplest outfit changes with the right add-on. A cap when I don’t want to deal with my hair, glasses, headphones, or some type of bag — accessories are quick ways to look intentional without overthinking.

5. Let your mood guide your look.
Some days I’m oversized and cozy, other days I’m fur and sequins. My style doesn’t live in one box — it shifts with how I feel, or what I’m trying to accomplish and that’s the fun part.

6. Stick to a palette that feels like home.
Find colors that feel like you. For me, it really varies depending on the occasion. Having a palette makes mixing and matching effortless.

7. Experiment without fear.
Style takes time. Try new things, even if they flop. At least you were brave enough to do so.

8. Know your audience.
I always think about where I’m going and who I’ll be with. A date night, a girls’ night out, dinner with friends, or even a cozy stay-in each calls for a different vibe. It’s not about impressing people — it’s about expressing myself in that moment.

Fashion, for me, isn’t about rules, labels, or trends. It’s about instinct. It’s about honoring my moods, my moments, and every version of myself — whether that’s a cozy sweatshirt day, a fur coat night, or two straight days in pajamas.

I don’t follow trends or style rules. I follow instinct. If it speaks to me, I wear it.

P.S. — it doesn’t hurt to have a great hairstylist in your corner. Or an esthetician. In the end, it really does take a village. I am a production of my own creation — but I’d be lost without my hairstylist, who I’ve been with since I was nineteen, and I’m lucky enough to have my best friend as my esthetician. They both help me feel confident and put together no matter what, which makes dressing effortless.

Your final take away, you do you, Queen — I’m sure you slay.

– xo

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