ReStyle with Intention: Loving the Trends that Truly Suit You ( in 5 easy steps)
How to Build a Wardrobe & Home with Intention
In today’s fast-moving world, the idea of shopping slowly and mindfully is more than a trend—it’s a return to connection. Connection with ourselves, with the makers, and with the stories behind the things we bring into our lives.
But let’s be real—it’s not always easy to tune out the noise. Mass consumption is everywhere. There will always be something newer, trendier, or more tempting next week, next month, or next year. I’ve made it a personal mission to silence that constant call to buy the next thing.
As a stylist and interior designer, it’s part of my job to know what’s trending. I genuinely love exploring new ideas and discovering fresh inspiration online—but it’s also where I can so easily fall into the scroll trap. So, when something catches my eye and I think, "Ooh, maybe that’s for me," I turn to a simple system.
These five steps have helped me (and my clients) bring more meaning, beauty, and practicality into both our wardrobes and our homes. I hope they do the same for you.
1. Start with a Vision
Before you buy anything, pause and ask yourself: How do I want to feel? Use that feeling to guide your choices—not the price, the promo, or the pressure.
A mood board, a few descriptive words, or a style anchor can keep you aligned.
Let’s take the trend of animal prints(which are everywhere this season!). I asked myself: Does this work with my personal style? How would it make me feel to wear it?
Trousers felt like too much for me. But a structured top or a cozy cardigan? Much more wearable. Even accessories—like a belt or a pair of shoes—could be the perfect nod to the trend without overpowering my look.
2. Shop Your Own Collection First
Next, I head to my wardrobe. What could I mix with a new animal print piece? What haven’t I worn in a while that could be reinvented?
Sometimes, I’ll experiment by pairing animal prints with another pattern for a signature look. Your closet often holds the most surprising treasures—just waiting to be restyled.
This works for interiors too. That cushion, that vase, that art print gathering dust—sometimes, all you need is a fresh perspective and a little rearranging magic.
3. Buy from People, Not Algorithms
If I decide I want to bring something new in, I do my best to buy from brands or makers I believe in. Maybe they’re local, maybe they use ethical fabrics, or maybe they support a cause I care about.
Yes, online shopping is convenient—but the return rate is much higher (around 30% in 2025) compared to just 9% from brick-and-mortar shops. Plus, what happens to your return might surprise you—many unsold or returned items don’t go back to shelves.
So think twice. Is this something you’ll cherish—or just click and forget?
4. Embrace Quality Over Quantity
If I’m buying animal print, it’s got to be something I’ll love beyond this season. A cardigan I can pair with jeans and a tee or throw over a dress? That’s my kind of timeless.
Fewer but better things. That’s the goal. Well-made pieces with emotional value will always outshine a pile of “meh” items you only wear once.
5. Pause Before You Purchase
Take a breath. Give it time.
That pair of animal print jeans I liked? Didn’t make the cut. That long skirt? Also no. But the cardigan I kept thinking about? It joined my wardrobe—and has already been worn more than once.
If something still excites you after a few days, chances are it's the right choice. Intentional shopping gives you clarity—and so much more joy when you finally say yes.
So, what about you?
What’s calling you right now—something new or something waiting to be rediscovered?
I hope this little guide sparks ideas for your next thoughtful wardrobe or home refresh. And if you ever feel stuck—or excited by a trend but unsure how to make it work for you—you know where to find me.
Let’s shop, style, and live with intention.
With love,
HM aka The Re-Styler