There are few things that define us more in the eyes of others than how we dress and the way we wear the clothes we choose. Often, the wardrobe choices we make are dictated either by the opinions of others or by the trends prevalent in culture and society. For women, the urge to dress in a way that pleases a romantic partner – or, as the case may be, a prospective romantic partner – sometimes seems to be second nature. But habits are not inborn, and the art of dressing to please someone else must be learned. And that which is learned can also be unlearned. Fashion as it pertains to one’s personal sense of style should be a gift to oneself. To create and to develop a personal philosophy of fashion – and to live by and embrace this philosophy – is the equivalent of giving oneself a valentine. Rather than seeking the approval of someone else by dressing in a way that we think will please another person, we dress in a way that allows us to fully appreciate, acknowledge, and accept who we are. Of course, like anything else in life that is an art one must master, finding one’s own philosophy of fashion is a matter of trial and error, of wrong choices that are eventually transformed into choices that make sense, both from the perspective of style and of one’s own individual personality.
The legendary French designer Yves Saint Laurent once said, “Finding your own style is not easy. But once found, it brings complete happiness. It gives you self-confidence, always.”
When a man or woman’s philosophy of fashion is tailored, like a new suit, to his or her own uniquely personal style, it may still require a certain amount of effort, but it will never feel forced, overdone, or out of place. Like a Valentine one might receive from an immortal beloved, the philosophy of fashion that one takes the time to create, channel, and manifest for oneself is a gift of love without conditions or requirements. The only expectation attached to such a Valentine is that one accepts it.
Here’s to finding, developing and embracing your Inner Fashionista!
Sascha, the Visionary Fashionista
VisionaryFashionista 