“Just around the corner in every woman’s mind – is a lovely dress, a wonderful suit, or entire costume which will make an enchanting new creature of her.”
— Wilhela Cushman
Fall is an effervescent time, when renewal is fresh in the air. The September issues have hit the stands and have since been discarded. New trends are already lining the racks in your favorite clothing stores. The world is abuzz with newness.
Fresh on our minds is transformation. “Who will I be this season?” “What do I want to portray to the world?” From school age kids to middle aged housewives, buying new clothes is as much about looking good as it is about creating a newer, better you.
I can recall, going off to college, plowing through fashion magazines, circling hot items, dog earring pages, tearing sheets and concocting a vision of who I wanted to be and what I wanted to look like. What would my fall look be? Tweeds and smart trousers! Grown-up blouses to be taken seriously. Skirts, skirts and more skirts! Durable yet stylish tote bags.
This process of defining who we are through fashion has become a crucial first step into who we hope to become in life. What we wear is our first defense. Before we open our mouths, our clothes do the talking and what they say can be as varied and diverse and the person who inhabits them. Clothes are not a substitute for substance, but they are the window dressing for the soul.
Even to this day, I use my clothing and style as a barometer. My clothes don’t define me but they are a key part in my expression. I doodle new styles I’m loving, what patterns I’m obsessed with (I have plaid on the brain) and what my style point of view will be.
In life’s changes; starting a new job, going away to school, moving to a new city, we must outfit ourselves for who we are and also who we hope to become. New clothing like new beginnings are less about the transition and more about coming into your own.
How are you renewing your wardrobe? Your life?
Great post! I wish I had read this post weeks ago when my peers were questioning why I always dressed up everyday to work. To me, it was my chance to finally embracing becoming a young professional. At my previous job, I could have walked in pajama jeans and that would be acceptable. This was finally my chance to breakout and make a statement. Unfortunately, peer pressure got to me and about 80% of the time I wear jeans to work. But, at least it’s not pajama jeans…
Regardless of how that long time saying, “Don´t judge the book by it´s cover.” preaches, we are judged quickly in a matters of seconds and that´s based on the clothes we wear, how we wear it, our accessories, and hairstyle. That´s the harsh reality. I´ve been called vain because of my love of fashion and styling, but these people who call me such forgets that it´s fashion that gives them the initial dignity.
Wow! Your beautiful words challenge me to think twice about spending my money on bills instead of clothes. I just made a big move, and to be honest I don’t have a clue who I am in this new space. Perhaps if I go find some clothes that make me smile and wear them everyday, I will emerge out of the ashes of a steep transition. Believe me, encouraging me to spend money on clothes is no easy feat. Kudos to you and your wonderful post!!
Thank you Angela but please pay your bills first!
I am in a similar situation, having moved, and finding your footing can be difficult. Sometimes a new dress or pair of shoes can give us a little more solid ground.
So glad that this piece touched you!
Not to worry, I’m paying the bills and it’s looking more and more like I might be able to buy a few things before Christmas. Here’s to hopin’! Thank you for your sweet reply. I look forward to reading more of your posts!