I Learned to Communicate "It Girl" Energy Through Fashion Social Signals—Here’s My Blueprint

While I hate to corroborate your fears, people are, in fact, judging what you wear. Not in a “mean girl” sense, but more so in a “Is she my vibe?” kind of way. So my 2026 wardrobe resolution is to reflect my internal values externally—I want the social signals I send to come off as chic, cool, calm, and collected, so even if my day is none of those things, I still give that impression.

Now, my resolution doesn’t involve stocking up on designer items. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. I want to do more with less this year, and differentiate my wardrobe from what you see all over TikTok. I’m leaning into quality, emerging designers and brands, and fit above all else.

If you, too, would like to nonverbally communicate “It girl” through 2026, here’s my blueprint.

I Check the Tag, Not the Logo

I am shocked at the price I have willingly paid for polyester in the past. If you’re spending real money for mostly plastic, you’re most likely paying for the name, not the piece. Instead, look for fine-gauge knits that hang just so, poplin that stays crisp, wool that drapes, and leather that feels smooth and dense in your hand. There are so many brands now that offer impeccable quality at a considered (versus egregious) price point, and part of the fun is discovering them.

My Bag Is Thought Through

I’m picking a bag that's slightly under the radar but clearly well-made. That means a clean shape, hardware that isn’t in your face, enough structure so it doesn’t collapse in on itself, and enough room for what I actually haul around. I want my accessories to shine with intention. Instead of opting for (or lusting after) what the It bag everyone else is carrying, this choice will read as intentional, not just aspirational.

My Clothes Are Indicative of Who I Am

The fact of the matter is, I’m petite—I will never look good in Khaite Danielle jeans, and I look like I’m swimming in pretty much everything from The Frankie Shop. The clothes on the rack fit a model whose sole job is to have perfect measurements and stand very still, which is a far cry from my body type and lifestyle. However, my tailor is my best friend, and also my coolest flex. By tailoring each piece I purchase, I’m making those subtle adjustments so the hem still hits right where it’s designed to, the shoulder seams are perfectly in place, and the waist is nipped and tucked. The result is a closet of staples that—as simple as they are—feel elevated because they are fit to me.

I Am an Outfit Repeater

I’ve noticed that the outfits I repeat are usually the most honest—they feel the closest to who I actually am, not who I think I should look like. And so I’ve stopped second-guessing myself whenever I reach for the same trousers or the same Gianvito Rossi patent pumps. Rewearing the pieces I love does not signal a lack of options, but it does signal consistency. I’m letting people recognize me, and that in itself is its own kind of power.