Shopping Your Closet: How a Simple Challenge Transformed My Style Perspective (Mako's story)

We've all been there--staring at our wardrobe, feeling like we have nothing to wear, and itching to buy something new. That was me, feeling stuck, until Yun-A posed a simple but powerful question: "What is it that you like about leather?"

At first, I was puzzled. I love leather, but I had never really questioned why. Like many of us, I shop based on instinct—I like something because it’s pretty or it catches my eye.
But Yun-a’s challenge forced me to dig deeper.

Discovering My True Style Preferences

As I reflected, I realized it wasn’t just the look of leather I loved. It wasn’t even about the color or the smooth feel—it was about the contrast it created. I adore mixing textures, like pairing leather pants with a chunky knit sweater, rather than wearing leather-on-leather. The magic was in the interplay of different materials, something I had never consciously acknowledged before.

Armed with this new insight, I turned to my own closet, searching for pieces that created this same sense of contrast. I sorted through my wardrobe and found silk blouses, feminine cardigans, and dark-toned pieces that contrasted beautifully with lighter ones. It was a revelation—everything I needed was already there.

The Fun of Shopping My Closet

What started as a style challenge turned into an exciting discovery session. Instead of rushing to the store, I shopped my own wardrobe, rediscovering clothes I hadn’t worn in years. The best part? The thrill of experimenting, mixing, and matching different textures and colors without spending a dime.

Outfit One

Outfit Two

Outfit Three

My goal was to create three completely new outfits, and I did just that:

1. Outfit One: A knit vest, usually layered over a long-sleeve top, worn instead with a light tank. I paired it with black pants and draped a scarf over it for extra contrast.
2. Outfit Two: A mix of silk and wool—a flowy, feminine blouse combined with structured dark trousers.
3. Outfit Three: Playing with contrasts, I styled a white top with black pants, adding textured accessories to complete the look.​

The Takeaway: Style is About Exploration

This experience taught me that style isn’t about buying more—it’s about understanding what you love and finding creative ways to express it. By shopping my closet, I satisfied my shopping urge while learning more about my own aesthetic.

So next time you feel the itch to shop, take a step back. Ask yourself why you love certain pieces. Look at what you already own with fresh eyes. You might be surprised at the incredible outfits waiting to be discovered right in your own wardrobe!

Experience this for yourself in the VIBE Before You Buy class.