All too often, people ask me the same question: "Great outfit, who are you so dressed up for?" So many people assume that the clothes I wear are based on what other people - particularly men - will enjoy looking at. What if I have other reasons for choosing my style? Here are the five real reasons behind why I dress the way I do:
1. My style allows me to express myself.
My clothes do not define me, but they do reflect some aspects of my personality. For example, if I wear a shirt with a sports team logo on it, you can probably infer that I am a fan of that particular team or sport. Conversely, if that same t-shirt has a low neckline, you cannot assume that I am looking for attention or that I am trying to say that I am interested in you. Those things cannot be explained by a piece of fabric. While I definitely choose to wear outfits that speak to who I am, you won't learn everything about me just by looking at me. I'm not trying to please others through my style, I'm just trying to be myself.
2. I feel comfortable in my clothes.
My weeks are packed with work and play, so I need a wardrobe with the fit and functionality to get me through everything from the gym grind to a study session. What I wear should put me in the right mindset to stay focused on my day and be content with my look at the same time. You may think I look sloppy walking into the library with baggy sweats or "basic" in my workout leggings, but that isn't my concern. Through my clothing, I can be happy and comfortable in my own skin in everything I do.
3. I am interested in current fashion and trends.
Personally, I am a self-diagnosed shopaholic. I love trying on the clothes displayed on store mannequins and experimenting with the latest fashion trends, especially when I can find new pieces on the sale racks. Dressing the way I do is fun for me. It serves as a way for me to take advantage of my youth and keep up with the times. I buy my clothes because they fit my style preferences that I have developed over the years as opposed to the expectations of others who judge my style.
4. My outfits make me feel confident.
I believe in dressing for success. If I have an interview for a job or a big presentation for my toughest class, the right outfit can make me look and feel ready to perform at the top of my game. Even on days that are seemingly less significant, the way I dress still gives me a boost of confidence about my appearance, and in turn, my self worth. I feel more prepared to walk out the door and take on the day when my outfit is looking sharp. I dress myself to show that I believe in myself and that I can do anything I set my mind to.
5. Because I can.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but I am not obligated to take everyone's opinion into account when choosing my outfits. I take advantage of my free will to decide what kind of clothing I put on. Say what you will, but these clothes make me happy simply because I like them. I believe that the people who truly care about me will support my style and have the ability to see past my physical appearance when they look at me. Each morning when I get dressed, the only person I need to impress is myself.
