How To Cement Your Personal Style: Identify Style Archetypes
Personal Style, Defined in 2025
Discover your personal Style Archetypes with my free quiz!
Personal style can feel elusive—like a vibe you recognize instantly but can’t always describe. That’s because true style isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about how it feels. It’s the sum of subtle choices: shape, color, fabric, attitude, and energy.
Building a wardrobe that feels authentic takes time, but here’s the truth: you’ve already done more of the work than you think. Years of trying on trends, scrolling inspiration, and admiring stylish people have shaped your instincts. Now it’s time to decode them.
This series will help you clarify what you love, edit out what doesn’t serve you, and move toward a closet that reflects your true self.
LESSON 1: Examine Archetypes
Boho * Classic * Vintage * Preppy * Edgy * Glam * Minimalist * Street Style * Romantic * Coastal Cowgirl * Dark Whimsy * Cottagecore * Clean Girl * Mob Wife * Balletcore * Old Money * Soft Grunge * Downtown Cool * Y2K * Eclectic * Normcore * Quiet Luxury * Indie Sleaze * Athleisure
The list goes on. Style isn’t static or singular. Most of us are influenced by multiple archetypes, and that’s what makes your personal style truly yours.
Let’s explore the mix that defines you.
Style Archetype: Edgy
1. EDGY:
The Edgy archetype is bold, unconventional, and unapologetically expressive. It’s for those who challenge trends rather than follow them—who mix leather with lace, pair vintage with techwear, or favor structured silhouettes with unexpected twists. Think zippers, asymmetry, sharp tailoring, and dark tones balanced with statement accessories.
In 2025, Edgy doesn’t mean chaotic. It’s intentional, sustainable, and smart. Edgy dressers often source secondhand, vintage, or upcycled pieces that speak to their rebellious spirit and value authenticity over perfection. This style archetype thrives on contrast—soft and hard, sleek and distressed, feminine and masculine.
It’s not about looking tough—it’s about dressing with a distinct point of view.
keywords to describe edgy style in 2025
Dark Feminine * Avant-Grunge * Gritty Glam * Moto-Chic * Cyber Sleek * Utilitarian Edge * High-Contrast Minimalism * Gender-Fluid Streetwear * Neo-Punk * Rebellious Classic
edgy brands to shop
Chrome Hearts * Balenciaga * Rick Owens * Alexander Wang * Helmut Lang * Mugler * Dion Lee * Ann Demeulemeester * Haider Ackermann * Acne Studios * Maison Margiela * Y/Project * The Row * Dr. Martens * Prada * Comme des Garçons * R13 * Jean Paul Gaultier * Marine Serre * Namilia
Style Archetype: Americana
2. AMERICANA
The Americana archetype is timeless, tailored, and effortlessly nostalgic. It draws from classic American prep, heritage sportswear, and rugged workwear—think denim, button-downs, varsity knits, and crisp blazers. This style leans into iconic silhouettes, clean lines, and a patriotic palette of red, white, and blue, balanced with earth tones and denim blues.
In 2025, Americana style feels both grounded and aspirational. It nods to tradition while embracing slow fashion values: quality over quantity, craftsmanship over flash. Americana dressers often shop resale or vintage, finding pieces that feel storied, broken-in, and built to last. The look is refined but never fussy—equal parts Ivy League, ranchwear, and retro charm.
It’s not about being trendy—it’s about being timeless with a sense of pride and polish.
keywords to describe AMERICANA style in 2025
Coastal Prep * Ivy Western * Classic Heritage * Country Club Cool * Retro Varsity * Equestrian Chic * New England Traditional * Summer in the Hamptons * Denim & Americana * Vintage Nautical
AMERICANA brands to shop
Ralph Lauren Collection * POLO Ralph Lauren * Tommy Hilfiger * Levi’s * L.L.Bean * Pendleton * Brooks Brothers * Frye * Red Wing * Carhartt WIP * Madewell * Barbour * RRL * J.Crew * Coach * Wrangler * Filson * Tory Burch * Sebago * G.H. Bass * Stetson
Americana Essentials
Style Archetype: Editorial Eclectic
3. EDITORIAL ECLECTIC
The Editorial Eclectic archetype is fashion-forward, expressive, and unapologetically experimental. She doesn’t just follow trends—she absorbs, reimagines, and layers them. Her style is informed by the runway, pop culture, and a deep love of visual storytelling. It’s maximalism with intention.
In 2025, Editorial Eclectic dressers are often stylists, creatives, or fashion insiders. Their looks blend vintage with new, high-end with streetwear, and always feature an eclectic mix of prints, textures, and unexpected color combinations. Nothing is predictable—everything is curated. Pattern clashes, oversized silhouettes, and avant-garde accessories are part of the daily rotation.
It’s not about dressing for practicality—it’s about self-expression as a visual statement.
keywords to describe Editorial Eclectic in 2025
Maximalist Muse * Art School Cool * Print Mixer * Fashion Editor Off Duty * Gallery Girl * Statement Dresser * Dopamine Dresser * Vintage Maximalist * Curated Chaos * Layered Luxe
Editorial Eclectic brands to shop
Marni * Loewe * Maison Margiela * Vivienne Westwood * Kenzo * Comme des Garçons * Dries Van Noten * The Attico * Batsheva * Acne Studios * Issey Miyake * Mira Mikati * Paloma Wool * Marine Serre * Gucci * Miu Miu * Jean Paul Gaultier * Jacquemus * Schiaparelli * Y/Project * Diesel * Casablanca * KENZO * Supreme * Off-White * Casablanca * Martine Rose * Vetements * Saks Potts * Raf Simons * Vintage Moschino
Editorial Eclectic Essentials
Style Archetype: Classically Chic
4. CLASSICALLY CHIC
The Classically Chic archetype is timeless, elegant, and always polished. She favors well-tailored silhouettes, neutral palettes, and clean lines—choosing quality over flash and refinement over trend. Her wardrobe is curated with intention: structured blazers, crisp button-downs, perfect trousers, and elegant dresses that move seamlessly from day to evening.
In 2025, this archetype leans into quiet luxury and slow fashion. The look is minimal, but never boring—often elevated with a designer handbag, a beautiful watch, or iconic shoes. She may shop vintage Chanel or new Celine, but everything is chosen to last, not to impress.
It’s not about being flashy—it’s about timeless sophistication with effortless confidence.
keywords to describe Classically Chic in 2025
Quiet Luxury * Polished Minimalism * Refined Modern * Soft Power Dressing * Understated Elegance * New Classic * Luxury Staples * Clean Girl Elevated * Architectural Simplicity * Sophisticated Neutral * Stealth Wealth
Classically Chic brands to shop
The Row * Celine * Max Mara * Totême * Loro Piana * Ralph Lauren Collection * Khaite * Theory * Vince * Jil Sander * Gabriela Hearst * Akris * Chanel * Hermes * Saint Laurent * Ferragamo * Proenza Schouler * Armani * Lafayette 148 * Joseph * Brunello Cucinelli * COS * Reiss * Hugo Boss * Banana Republic Icons * Tory Burch (clean silhouettes) * Loewe (minimalist bags) * Manolo Blahnik * Aquazzura
Classically Chic Essentials
Style Archetype: Full On Glam
5. FULL ON GLAM
The Full On Glam archetype is bold, magnetic, and unapologetically alluring. She embraces her power and expresses it through every detail—from a sculpted silhouette to a killer heel. Nothing is accidental; everything is curated to turn heads and own the room. Her look is high-impact, high-gloss, and confident.
In 2025, Full On Glam is more versatile than ever. Think vintage Versace, sleek Mugler, crystal-trimmed slip dresses, or body-hugging knits paired with stiletto boots. This archetype plays with shine, structure, and skin. It’s not just sexy—it’s strategic. Glam girls know how to style for effect, whether it’s a red lip, a nipped waist, or a plunging neckline.
It’s not about seeking attention—it’s about commanding it.
Keywords to describe Full On Glam in 2025
Bombshell Energy * Sculpted Silhouette * Luxe Allure * Power Feminine * Modern Diva * Statement Sexy * Gloss & Glamour * Jet Set Chic * Hyper-Feminine Confidence * High-Octane Dressing * Cocktail Hour Couture
Full On Glam brands to shop
Versace * Mugler * Balmain * Alexandre Vauthier * LaQuan Smith * Cult Gaia * Retrofête * Norma Kamali * Saint Laurent * Dolce & Gabbana * Alice + Olivia * Michael Kors Collection * Tom Ford * Brandon Maxwell * Sergio Hudson * Alexandre Birman * Gianvito Rossi * Jimmy Choo * Area * Zimmermann (eveningwear) * Oscar de la Renta (modern gowns) * Attico * 16Arlington * Paco Rabanne * Alexandre Vauthier * L’Agence
Full On Glam Essentials
Style Archetype: Athleisure
6. ATHLEISURE
The Athleisure archetype is streamlined, sporty, and effortlessly modern. While it borrows from activewear, this style is far from post-gym casual. It’s about blending performance and polish—stretch fabrics with structure, comfort with cool, and movement with intention.
In 2025, Athleisure has evolved into a minimalist-meets-functional uniform: sleek leggings, elevated hoodies, tailored joggers, and sculptural sneakers. It’s wellness-minded and style-conscious—rooted in ease, but executed with precision. Neutral tones, high-tech materials, and monochromatic sets keep the look clean, chic, and endlessly wearable.
It’s not about dressing down—it’s about showing up comfortable, capable, and on-trend.
Keywords to describe Athleisure in 2025
Elevated Comfort * Sculpted Activewear * Off-Duty Model * Luxe Minimal Sport * Sleek Performance * Tailored Movement * Wellness Core * Casual But Intentional * Power Casual * Streamlined Streetwear * Modern Uniform
Athleisure brands to shop
Wardrobe NYC * The Row Sport * Alo Yoga * Loro Piana * Sporty & Rich * Tory Sport * Prada Linea Rossa * Totême * Ernest Leoty * Live the Process * Kith Women * P.E Nation * Off-White * Adidas by Stella McCartney * Lacoste * Moncler Grenoble * Nike (Tech & Limited Edition) * APL * Varley * SET Active * New Balance (Made in USA & collabs) * Maison Kitsuné * Tnuck Sport
Athleisure Essentials
Style Archetype: Minimalist
7. MINIMALIST
The Minimalist archetype is clean, intentional, and effortlessly refined. She values simplicity over excess, choosing timeless pieces in neutral tones that can be styled endlessly. Her closet is curated—not crowded—with a focus on quality fabrics, impeccable tailoring, and functional silhouettes.
In 2025, the minimalist dresser prioritizes sustainability and longevity. She embraces slow fashion, capsule wardrobes, and elevated basics. Every item serves a purpose and pairs back seamlessly with the rest. The vibe is calm, cohesive, and quietly powerful.
It’s not about being plain—it’s about making less feel like more.
Keywords to describe Minimalist Style in 2025
Neutral Simplicity * Elevated Basics * Capsule Wardrobe * Quiet Confidence * Understated Elegance * Streamlined Silhouettes * Intentional Dressing * Soft Structure * Modern Minimalism * Architectural Neutrals * Refined Essentials
Minimalist brands to shop
The Row * Totême * COS * Jil Sander * Loro Piana * Celine * Khaite * Joseph * Theory * Vince * Max Mara * Tibi * Low Classic * Frankie Shop * Nanushka * AYR * Studio Nicholson * Jenni Kayne * Proenza Schouler White Label * Aritzia (Babaton & Wilfred) * Everlane * Neous (for accessories)
Minimalist Essentials
Style Archetype: Free Spirit
8. FREE SPIRIT
The Free Spirit archetype is effortless, expressive, and untamed. She dresses with emotion and instinct, gravitating toward flowy silhouettes, vintage textures, and pieces that feel storied and soulful. Nothing feels restrictive—she needs to move, wander, and feel connected to the energy of what she wears.
In 2025, Free Spirit style blends heirloom romance with global influence. It’s a curated mix of handmade details, vintage finds, artisan jewelry, natural fabrics, and earthy tones. This style isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about honoring craft, intuition, and a feeling of freedom in every outfit.
It’s not about looking boho—it’s about dressing in alignment with your spirit.
Keywords to describe Free Spirit style in 2025
Modern Boho * Global Nomad * Heirloom Vintage * Flowy Feminine * Earthy Romantic * Artisan Layers * Sunset Palette * Wanderlust Wardrobe * Rooted & Radiant * Soulful Style * Conscious Freeform
Free Spirit brands to shop
Chloé * Missoni * Ulla Johnson * Zimmermann * Etro * Dôen * Chufy * Sea New York * Cleobella * Aje * PatBO * Natalie Martin * Mara Hoffman * Antik Batik * Fillyboo * Isabel Marant Étoile * Ace & Jig (resale) * LoveShackFancy * The Great * Mirth * Free People (FP One) * Farm Rio * Tacha * Camilla * Etica * Banjanan * Johnny Was * Tory Burch (global prints) * Stella Jean * Altuzarra (flowy separates)
Free Spirit Essentials
ACTIVITY: Pinspiration
Step 1: Create a new Pinterest board titled “My Style Archetypes” and don’t forget to follow MappCraft on Pinterest for curated inspo across every vibe.
Step 2: Explore the 8 Style Archetype boards linked below. As you scroll, pay attention to how each image feels. Do certain outfits light you up? Do others feel flat, forced, or off-brand for you?
Step 3: Pin anything that resonates. Don’t overthink how it aligns with your body type, age, or current wardrobe. This is about energy, not exact matches.
Step 4: Review your board. Chances are, you’ll pin from multiple archetypes—and that’s the point. Your personal style is a beautiful blend of influences, not a single box. Look for common threads: colors, shapes, fabrics, or moods that repeat. These are clues to your authentic style DNA.
Now that you have a clearer sense of the Style Archetypes you’re drawn to, take a moment to identify why. Was it the Americana stripes? The Edgy ripped denim? Athleisure sneakers? Classically Chic pearls? Editorial Eclectic pops of color? Sculptural Minimalist jewelry? Full On Glam body-con silhouettes? Or the Free Spirit embroidery and heirloom textures?
Jot down the details. Take a mental snapshot. These are the cues that shape your personal style vocabulary—and you’ll need them for Lesson 2: Evaluating Accessories.
xo,
Jenn
P.S. If this helped you clarify your style, share it, follow along, click the heart, or send it to a friend. Good style karma always comes back around—sometimes in your next lifetime, sometimes at brunch