Defining your style type gives you a place to begin. It's a way to uncover and come to grips with who you are, in order to determine what is appropriate and inappropriate for your personal style (and why), and to identify which exciting fashion direction or possibilities exist for you.

As fashion stylists and personal shoppers, we have worked with thousands of women from coast to coast, and here's what we've found. Everyone belongs to one or a combination of these five style types: Classic, Chic, Whimsical, Bohemian and Avant-Garde.  Take the  style type quiz to find out which one you are. Knowing your style type gives you clarity and a direction to go. For more tested style advice that will help you step into the movie star version of yourself, enter your email address below.

style types nyanzi.com

basics, such as navy, white, khaki, charcoal, or brown

black and neutrals

a rainbow of colors

earth tones

black with touches of bold color


traditional and proper

sharp and direct

playful and spirited

relaxed and liberal

innovative and forward-thinking


get comfortable in khakis, a collared shirt, and your cutest loafers

put on a sleek V-neck top and modern-cut pant

step out in a fun floral dress or bright mixed prints

throw on a pair of jeans, T-shirt with funky accessories

grab your favorite jacket with interesting and unusual details to wear with a black pant


buy a couple outfits at J.Crew or Banana Republic

spend it on a cashmere wrap

splurge on anything that catches your eye

add to your accessories collection with a slouchy suede bag

buy a dress that makes you feel smart and unique


blend in

be in control, exude power

be animated

seem natural and easygoing

make a statement


purchase practical basics for all seasons

buy high-quality, smart pieces that are sure to be in style

get something with a splash of color to brighten your day

head to the flea market for some great "lived-in" and funky finds

find that unusual piece to add to your wardrobe that no one else will have


straight and sleek

sharp and powerful, perhaps boxy

romantic with a flared princess cut

an easy and flowy cape

edgy and asymmetrical


a Ralph Lauren lifestyle ad

that little black dress in the "special occasion" section

stacked bangles

wide brim hats and denim

a story on the new designers from Tokyo and Belgium


comfortable and traditional (think Ralph Lauren)

streamlined, tonal, with clean surfaces (think Tom Ford)

fun, kitschy, and unorthodox (think Alice in Wonderland)

lots of rugs, earth tone, and floral prints (think 70s)

minimalist, architectural, and sculptural (think modernist, futuristic)


a tote with initials (think Goyard)

a minimalist tote in neutrals (think Celine)

a leather tote with studs and embellishments, or a pop of color (think Alaia)

a backpack or a worn-in leather bag, perhaps with fringe (think Balenciaga or Chloe)

a black statement clutch, perhaps with python or alligator skin (think Margiela or Maiyet)