Personal fashion can increase your self-image and self-esteem
A woman with the right shoes can do just about anything. Look at Cinderella. The fashion industry isn’t just fluff or based on superficial ideals. While women’s education and values are much more important than the designer bag you might tote around, fashion can make a huge difference in your outlook, demeanor, and even personality.
Remember everyones favorite scene in Pretty Woman when Julia Roberts’ character goes on an all day shopping trip around the infamous Rodeo Drive? I bet that scene had you glued to your TV, not for the actual fashion, but because the happiness shown by her character in her transformation was nothing short of heavenly.
Have you ever heard of the nonprofit organization called “Dress for Success”? Its a for women by women organization that styles underprivileged, abused and homeless women in really great professional attire so they can get back into the workforce again. To see these ladies before they get styled with poor posture and little eye contact because of low self-esteem get transformed by a simple Donna Karen suit, can bring tears to anyones eyes. Countless studies have shown that if you feel good about the way you look, you are likely to portray a better attitude, focus, and complete tasks with more precision.
Do
- figure out your personal style
- experiment
- pay attention to your spirit
- commit
Don't
- go shopping with friends
- buy into the lie that only expensive designer labels are stylish
- expect your life to change overnight
- forget to contact a personal stylist for direction
Do figure out your personal style
Depending how and where you grew up can influence your personal style in a way that isn’t truly authentic to what your true style is. When you’re growing up and finding yourself, its easy to succumb to your surroundings and just want to fit in. Identify what you would like your style to be personally, instead of worrying about what your spouse, family or friends think it should be.
Do experiment
Try different types of looks not just with your personal fashion, but also with your hair. If you’ve been parting it on the left your whole life, it may be time for a change. It may seem minor, but it is good to try out different styles to see what fits best for you. Also, try on different looks that you wouldn’t normally try at stores. Staying in your comfort zone of style is OK, but beware of wearing the same thing each day. This should be a fun and exciting experience.
Do pay attention to your spirit
The whole reason for fashion is to be able to express yourself. Pay attention to what you’re feeling after putting on your favorite dress or shoes. Think about why it’s making you feel that way. Theres something to be said for that well tailored suit in your closet. You bought it for a reason, right? Maybe you enjoy feeling powerful and in charge. And why shouldn’t you?
Even going to gym is an opportunity for you to put on a great workout outfit because studies have shown when you like your appearance, you're more likely to apply yourself in that environment. If you feel good about the way you look, you’ll probably have a better workout and leave the gym feeling great mind, body, and spirit. They all go hand in hand.
Do commit
The coolest people in fashion are the people that commit to their look and make no apologies. You will find there is something extremely liberating about being yourself in any environment. I can assure you the the people who have made fashions “Worst Dressed” list are far happier than the people making the “Best Dressed” lists because they being authentic to themselves.
Do not go shopping with friends
Going shopping with friends will only deter you from your initial fashion intuition. We have all been victim to finding the perfect dress, only to try it on and have your best girlfriend say “Hmmm, not loving it!” Guess what? She isn’t wearing it. You are! Trust your own personal taste.
Do not buy into the lie that only expensive designer labels are stylish
Mix and match high and low clothing. Some of the most renowned fashion stylists are more likely wearing vintage frocks from a thrift store than high ticket pieces. You would be surprised. Wear what is in alignment with your soul and mood.
Do not expect your life to change overnight
Studies have shown that good fashion is linked to self-esteem, but that being said, always deal with the important issues in your life first. See your life as a blank canvas, and decide how you would like to see yourself. Your life will not change overnight, but taking important and lasting steps to improve your self-esteem will help to create a healthy perspective throughout your whole life.
Do not forget to contact a personal stylist for direction
Sometimes getting off on the right foot when it comes to your fashion and personal style, will do wonders to kickstart your journey to a happier you and a better self-image overall. Knowing where to start may be difficult, so if you find yourself at a loss for what to do next as you try out different styles, it can be helpful to contact a personal stylist around your area to help you create that personalized style that will bring you confidence in everything you do in life.
Summary
At the end of the day a healthy personal image of yourself comes from within, but great fashion and a good hair day can only help the cause. After all, your outside should match your inside and vice versa.
