We’ve all had that dreaded moment—you show up to a party and someone else is wearing the same outfit. It’s hard to be totally one-of-a-kind when many of us shop in the same stores. Stores like The Gap and J. Crew are great, but because so many people frequent them, you’re not very likely to find an ensemble that’s uniquely you. If you’ve been itching to go your own way for a while but don’t know where to start, we can help. Read on for tips on how to put your own spin on your wardrobe.

Start with the Wardrobe Basics

This might sound counterintuitive but you should start with some relatively neutral items. Tees and cardigans in basic colors are a must, and every woman really should have an LBD (little black dress, of course). You don’t want to go crazy with patterned clothing, especially if you are on a budget, as you can’t get away with wearing tie-dyed pants two days in a row.

Accessorize, Accessorize, and Accessorize Some More

After you’ve gotten the basics, you can really go nuts with accessories to reflect your personality. Whether it’s a bright scarf, a knit beanie, or earrings that go to your shoulders, accessories are a way to let your freak flag fly—so to speak. And having started with the basics, you don’t have to have a Kim Kardashian-esque budget to work with either. Change up your accessories and you’ll look unique every day. And don’t get caught in the mindset that things need to match, as it’s when they don’t that it gets interesting.

Pull out that LBD, a green belt, and purple pumps for a color-blocked look that others won’t believe you can pull off (but believe us, you will). You can take a white tee and jeans and with a floppy wide-brimmed hat, a statement necklace, a vintage leather jacket, and some killer boots, you’ve told everyone around you just who you are. Kudos to you! If you love to show your hometown pride, try out The Home T—you can find clothing options from every state, whether you’re a SoCal gal that needs a Cali pride shirt, or need Minnesota apparel to pay homage to your Midwest upbringing.

Say It With Shoes

You don’t have to be Carrie from Sex and the City to have a love affair with shoes. The more we buy, the more we adore them. As far as clothes and accessories go, this is as close to an addiction as many women get. But you really don’t need a closet full of shoes to put your own spin on your wardrobe. Find out what suits your personality, whether it’s thigh-high boots, Converse high-tops, Jimmy Choo pumps (if you can afford them), or a chunky pair of heels. Shoes really let people know your personality. And while Zappos and Nordstrom are great places to buy shoes, there are less expensive places (think TJ Maxx and Nordstrom Rack) that offer awesome options for less.

Hats Off to Hats

We know we mentioned this with the accessories but let’s be real—hats are having a moment and deserve their own section. Gone are the days when hats weren’t accepted in the workplace … at least in most companies. These days, you can get away with wearing hats just about anywhere. And because they are so stylish, it surely completes most outfits. From a high-class baseball hat and a newsboy cap to berets and wide-brimmed floppy hats made of felt or straw depending on the season, hats scream, “World, here I am!” They are the perfect way to put your own spin on your wardrobe.

Tap Into Inspiration

If you’re feeling blah about your wardrobe, think about who really expires you in the fashion world. Is it P!nk’s rebellious style or Victoria Beckham’s haute couture? Really think about who inspires you in this way and what it is that does so. Of course, you don’t want to simply become a copycat, as you’re trying to find your own unique style. However there are things you can definitely emulate while still being distinctly you. Remember what we said about the stores that everyone frequents. While you can find the occasional gem there, when you want something truly unique, you probably want to try lesser known boutiques or vintage shops.

Tap into any of these ways to put your own spin on your wardrobe and you’ll have people asking you where you shop in no time. P.S. Don’t tell them!

Have a lovely day.

*Collaborative post.