The Empowering Effect of Fashion

Style is not about following the latest trends.  Fashion is more than just clothing; it’s a powerful tool for self-expression and empowerment. When we dress in a way that reflects our true selves, we are more confident and capable of not only showing up, but of fully arriving. 

At the heart of fashion empowerment is the concept of personal style. Your personal style is a reflection of who you are, your values, your beliefs, and your aspirations. By embracing your personal style and expressing yourself through fashion, you can unlock your full potential and live a more fulfilling life. 

The bad news? We can’t get there overnight, connecting with your personal style is a journey of self discovery, and self improvement — it takes time and work.  The good news? This work is fun, and the time can be gratifying and beneficial for your well-being.  (To understand why, check out this excellent (and thorough!) article by Dr. Anna Katharina Schaffner on reaching happiness; the gist is when you engage in activities that give you a sense of accomplishment or enjoyment, it can boost your mood and reduce stress levels and get that priceless sense of purpose and fulfillment in your life).

You already know this; the key to fashion empowerment is to dress for yourself, not for others. Thanks to a few beloved socials it’s easy to get caught up in the latest trends and expectations of what we should wear or not wear.  (A quick look at the epic and endless war between skinny jeans and mom jeans playing out is, in itself, an excellent reason not even to bother.)  True fashion empowerment comes from dressing in a way that makes you feel good, regardless of what others may think. In a way that reflects your true self. In a way that sends a powerful message to the world that you are confident, capable, and authentic. You are a baddie.  (Hello mental health wellness, self-esteem and confidence! )

Where do you fit? While many successful fashion entrepreneurs have used their passion and empowerment as a catalyst for professional growth, building multi-billion dollar businesses (shout out to Tory Burch !), you don’t need to be working in the fashion industry to be a part of it, to play with expression, or to practice self-love through style empowerment.  Here are my Big Four: 

1. Be Yourself: Your personal style is a unique reflection of you personally.  Want to tell me about your tastes, culture, experiences ?  There is no faster way to express to the world who you are and what you like, than in how you put yourself together. 
2. Own your Outlook: That’s right, work it girl.  Wearing what makes you feel invincible will amplify that feeling through everything you do.  That confidence and self-esteem can actually translate into just a more positive outlook on the rest of your day.  When you see someone with great posture – chances are pretty good, they’ve got their strut on. 
3. Showcase your Art: Fashion is art, it takes time, it takes effort, it takes practice – by expressing  your creativity and artistic vision through your wardrobe, you become your own canvas.
4. Make Connections: Ever see someone and know you want to be friends with them? Your wardrobe choices help you connect with others.  In addition to being able to identify similar interests or styles – fashion is a conversation starter!  Oh wow,  I love your pants.  

So where are you on your fashion empowerment journey?  Half-way? All-the-way? Just beginning? No matter where you stand now: it’s about intentionality.  Take a moment today and jot down one thing you love to wear, one that makes you feel like you, and then take another moment and be intentional about styling around THAT piece.    Embracing your personal style, unlock your potential, and enjoy your day.