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Evolving Your Personal Style Without Reinventing the Wheel

Style Savvy
EVOLVING YOUR PERSONAL STYLE WITHOUT REINVENTING THE WHEEL

By: Christine Tusher | September 2, 2025

It’s easy to get stuck in a style rut when you’re juggling little kids, work and everything in between. You have very little time to keep up with the latest in fashion, let alone go shopping. Suddenly, years have gone by and you’re reaching for the same 8-10 pieces in your closet, all of which feel outdated. You want to look put together, but the idea of starting from scratch? Not happening.

Think about celebrities or public figures known for their timeless style. They manage to move with the trends while always staying true to themselves. Jennifer Aniston is a perfect example. She has mastered the art of classic, minimal dressing and somehow always looks on-brand without ever appearing dated. That balance is the key to keeping your style fresh year after year.

The good news is that you do not have to overhaul your closet to get there. A few intentional tweaks can make your everyday outfits feel fresh, modern and more you.

HERE ARE 5 EASY WAYS TO DO IT:

1. Know your style signature

Your style signature is the common thread running through all your best outfits. I like to think of it as three elements that show up again and again in what you wear and that you intentionally weave into every outfit you create.

Since we have already mentioned Jennifer Aniston, let us use her as an example. Her style signatures are neutrals, classics and solid-colored fabrics. It’s rare to see her in a print, and when she does wear one, it functions as a neutral such as stripes, camouflage or leopard. These signatures allow her to choose modern pieces that align with current trends without looking trendy or diluting her personal brand.

Knowing your own style signature helps you shop with focus and create outfits that feel like you, even as trends shift.

2. Work new trends into what you already own

For example, bandanas and scarves are everywhere this season. Instead of wearing them the same old way, try something new:

Loop one through your belt loops for a pop of pattern at the waist
Tie it as a head scarf on a busy morning
Wrap it around your purse strap for an instant outfit lift

3. Refresh your footwear

Shoes have a huge impact on your overall look. Update your go-to’s as they wear out to ensure your look stays current. For example, chunky “dad sneakers” feel dated right now. Instead, opt for a low-profile version like the Nike Cortez, Adidas Tokyo or Puma Speedcat. These styles feel modern and versatile and work with everything from jeans to dresses.

4. Play with proportions

Gone are the days of wearing bodysuits with skinny jeans. The look right now is all about contrast. If you’re wearing an oversized shirt, opt for a slim, cigarette-style jean. If you’re rocking wide-leg jeans, balance the volume with a more fitted top. Playing with proportions keeps your outfits interesting and current without replacing every piece you own.

5. Update the basic shapes in your wardrobe

Fashion shifts in subtle ways over time. It’s often the shape of our go-to pieces that makes the difference between looking current and looking dated.
Take leather jackets. They’re practically a second skin in the Bay Area. But the cropped, boxy moto you bought a decade ago might not flatter you like it used to. Instead, try a slightly more relaxed, minimalist style that feels effortless yet polished.

The same goes for tees. Drapey cap-sleeve tees with a U-shaped hem had their moment, but now a more structured or fitted tee with a true short sleeve instantly looks modern.

Bottom line: You do not need an entirely new wardrobe to feel stylish. A few thoughtful updates, whether it is refining your style signature or adding a trend, can make all the difference. Your style can evolve right along with you, no total reinvention required.

Christine Tusher is a personal stylist and the founder of Christine Elise Style. She empowers women to rediscover their personal style and infuse their wardrobe with excitement and ease. Christine offers color analysis, closet audits, and personal shopping both remotely and in person to Bay Area clients. You can learn more about her at christineelisestyle.com