New year, new wardrobe! That’s how the saying goes right? It’s January, which means cozy sweaters, thick socks and a few style resolutions to get the year going. This week I want to talk a little less about clothes and a little more about the people wearing them. It’s hard to discuss fashion without addressing the body image and confidence issues surrounding it. That’s why my new year’s resolution for all of you is not to dress better, but to dress confidently.
What does it mean to dress confidently you ask? It’s more than just feeling comfortable in the clothing you wear, but also the skin you’re in. Fashion is more than a price tag or trend, it’s about expression and acceptance. If I’ve learned anything from Stacy London and Clinton Kelly from What Not To Wear, it’s that most people who struggle in front of a mirror are not having a hard time choosing between floral or striped, but really are searching for the right way to express themselves. Fashion is best used as a creative outlet, just like painting, theater or piano, and if you’re not having fun, you’re not doing it right.
The first step to dressing confidently is to love what you wear. Yes, you can follow every issue of Vogue religiously and by every couture knock-off you can find, but I’ll let you in on a secret: fashion is not just about trends. Who was ever remembered for repeating the same thing? I love writing about what’s currently in, but real inspiration comes from breaking the mold and you don’t have to dress like everyone else to have style. Wear what you like, even if it isn’t typical.
Similarly, stay positive. Once that seed of doubt is in your mind it’s hard to ignore. If you’re spending a day in the city or just walking around campus, forget what other people think. There are times when a first impression counts, like an interview or other special occasion. But on a regular basis, you should be dressing for you before anyone else. Let go of your fears of fitting in, and embrace the parts of you that stand out. Keeping a sunny attitude will help give you the confidence boost you need to look your best.
What if you’re too worried about how others might perceive you? Fashion often overlaps with the insecurities we have about our appearances and ourselves. Want a way out? Fake it ‘til you make it. It’s not tough love, it’s the truth. You don’t need anyone else’s approval but your own, and if you can’t yet say with perfect confidence that you love yourself, pretend. So much of our own judgments stem from what we say in our thoughts, so even if you don’t believe it, make those thoughts positive. When you lift yourself up, you start to feel better and then other people will notice your confidence too. Alright, let’s get back to some fashion tips before this gets too ooey gooey.
This next step might put me in for fashion heresy, but here it goes: Don’t sacrifice comfort for the sake of being trendy. What? I know, but hear me out. You’re not going to be at your best when you can’t even move in what you’re wearing. Of course, we all have a few coveted pieces we’d walk through the fires of hell in just because we look bomb, but man at what cost?! The good news is, it’s actually not that hard to stay stylish and comfy at the same time. Especially in winter when a good sweater is all you need to accomplish both. Don’t fill your wardrobe with 5-inch heels or expensive ties if you actually hate them.
Lastly, let yourself experiment. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, bold colors and interesting cuts. No one’s going to judge you when you’re standing in the front of the mirror getting dressed. If you don’t like what you’ve picked, try something else. It’s okay to make mistakes, and you shouldn’t wear anything outside of the house that you don’t feel confident in.
I hope this little pep talk has rallied your fashion spirits for the coming semester. If you take away anything, remember style should be about expressing yourself. Have fun and stay confident.
