Discovering My Aesthetic Style: A Journey to Creativity, Sustainability, and Business

We all have preferences when it comes to style--whether it’s fashion, home décor, or design—but have you ever stopped to ask why you like what you like? This simple question led me on a transformative journey, not just in personal style but in launching a business rooted in sustainability.

The Early Days of Creativity and a Career Shift
From a young age, I was drawn to art and design. I had planned to attend art school, but after taking a gap year, I shifted gears to study international studies and politics. I wanted to make a bigger impact on the world, and at the time, I mistakenly believed that I couldn't do so through art and design. However, my creative instincts never left me.

During college, I found myself unconsciously incorporating artistic elements into my daily life—whether in my paintings, fashion choices, or even home décor. I started noticing patterns in my aesthetic preferences, particularly my love for color, balance, and contrast. This realization planted the seed for something much bigger.

The Birth of a Business and a New Way of Thinking
Fast forward several years—I was a mother, contemplating my next career move. I wanted to start a business but wasn’t sure where to begin. That’s when I had the idea to create a course on discovering your personal aesthetic style without buying anything new. This concept became the foundation of my YAS Stylist program, which helps people find their style by working with what they already own.

As I developed the course, I realized I was teaching an established concept—interior redesign—which is the practice of restyling a space using only existing furniture and décor. I became certified in interior redesign and began helping clients transform their homes without purchasing new items. But this wasn’t always an easy sell—many people were fixated on buying their way to a fresh look.

A Mindset Shift: Creating New Without Buying New
One pivotal moment solidified my perspective. A client insisted on throwing out all their living room furniture and starting from scratch, despite my efforts to show them how they could revamp the space using what they had. Frustrated, I went shopping for myself as a way to decompress.

As I browsed the racks, I picked up pieces that caught my eye—certain textures, patterns, and colors. Then, it hit me: I already have similar elements in my closet. The realization was so powerful that I left the store empty-handed and rushed home, excited to create new outfits using what I already owned.

That moment changed everything. I discovered that the excitement of styling was just as fulfilling—if not more—than the excitement of buying. It was a mindset shift that extended beyond fashion into interior design and sustainability.

Embracing What You Already Have
This experience became the foundation for my VIBE Before You Buy class,  a resource that helps people see their existing wardrobe in a new light. It also solidified my passion for sustainable living—challenging the idea that happiness and fulfillment come from purchasing more.

So, next time you feel the urge to shop for something new, pause and ask yourself:  What is it that I actually love about this item? You might just find that you already have everything you need to create something fresh and inspiring.

Want to learn how to embrace your aesthetic style without buying more? In my Vibe Class, I’ll show you how to create three new outfits using your own clothes. Let’s unlock your creative potential together!