Beyond the Garments
Growing up, I placed so much of my identity into what I wore. I noticed the attention I would get if I wore certain outfits, and because of brokenness, I allowed it to become my identity. We are a part of an industry that emphasizes how it "looks" or how "trendy" it is. I want you, future fashion leaders, to think above the surface of what it "looks" like to be a part of the fashion industry. We need leaders who are confident in who God has called them to be and represent that through their words and how they choose to show up in their attire.
Once your mind, will, and emotions change, everything around you starts to change – so do your style preferences. Many people don't talk about how the pieces they wear are not in alignment with who they are today. You begin to feel and look out of place. You know that something is missing and needs to be aligned. When I was younger, I was more concerned about trendiness and cheapness. Now my taste changed to high-quality, contemporary pieces that would last longer. Suppose you are currently in a space where what you wear differs from your maturity. I want to guide you to the other side, where who you are today is reflected through your style. Being in that space can make you feel inauthentic, but that is normal because you are growing. So let's get into this style transformation below:
Look at your style and complete a thorough analysis of your wardrobe. You may not be as bold as I am to throw away most of your closet and start over fresh, but you can start somewhere. Moreover, create a mood board via canva of styles you love that align with who you are today. Then, go to your closet and make three piles:
What you want to keep.
What you want to give away freely.
What you want to give away or donate in exchange for compensation.
Oh, and remember the shoes.
Once you have gotten rid of the old, it is time to welcome the new. Begin to start adding new items to your wardrobe. If you are afraid of how something may fit, see if you can find something similar at your local mall and try it on. That will let you know if a particular style suits you. And before you know it, your attire will reflect your internal growth. Fashion is subjective, so be confident in showing up as the new YOU in your new style.
