It seems like every time I pack for a vacation, the clothes I pick out are not the clothes I really want to wear. Consumed with self-doubt, I’ll roll with the punches, eyeballing my choices with utter disgust. I’ll snap 100 pictures for my Instagram, and I won’t like one. My mind virtually shifts to my wardrobe; why didn’t I wear this? Why did I pick out that? How many likes will this outfit get? As shallow as this may sound, it’s the truth.
They say women dress for women. I say we dress for social media. With all this mid-level scrutiny, I think I knew what I was doing wrong. First, I had to stop the criticism, stop the obsessive need to be liked. I wanted to channel all that energy into appreciating my style for what it is—unapologetically me.
Easier said than done, right? Perhaps. Well, I’ll tell you this: I needed to put my newfound motto to the test. During my last mini vacay, I made a conscious effort to bring clothes that were truly appreciated, clothes that I would not question.
The results were surprising. Why? Because this was the first time that I was 100% satisfied with all the clothing I selected. I felt that everything was 100% my style. I want you to experience this same jubilance. Check out these five ways that will help you appreciate your style.
1. Wear Your Favorites
I recently purchased a pair of jeans that fit me just right, and I have now filed under my favorites. Of course, I bought these jeans with me on my vacay. Let’s keep it real, we all have that one item in our wardrobes that never fails us. Wear those favorites. Pair them with new or old favorites. No matter what, they will never steer you wrong.
2. Put It On
As you learn to appreciate your style, you must try on your clothes. Before I left for my vacay, I made sure that I tried on every outfit I would be wearing. Please don’t make the mistake of leaving your home or the store without giving yourself a style approval. You’ll be less likely to regret your style choices later on.
3. Look Back At ’Em
Trying to improve your style? Scroll through your Instagram feed to see how much your style has grown. Maybe your Facebook pictures are a telltale sign of what you love and what you’ve learned to let go. Don’t be afraid to look back. This simple gesture will help you craft a deep appreciation for your perfect future style.
4. Add (or Delete) Some Sparkle
I wear my hair in a super short Afro or it’s covered with an elaborate hair wrap. This hairstyle has helped me appreciate sparkly things like statement earrings—the bigger the better. Perhaps, all your style needs is a little sparkle.
5. Don’t Compare
I saved the best tip for last. Don’t compare yourself to others. It is a ridiculous waste of time. I can say this because I’ve done it. Social media makes it so easy too! Scroll, like. Repeat. I’ve learned to admire others without criticizing myself in the process. In appreciating your own taste, focus on what looks good on you, and only you.
Learning to appreciate your personal style is like a never-ending game of feeling like sometimes you get it right and sometimes you get it completely wrong. Don’t be overly critical of yourself or your style. Remember to wear what works for you—keep those favorites on hand, my friends Try on your clothes, and make changes when necessary. More importantly, show your style some appreciation!
Author: Kadiyah Lodge
Email: [email protected]
Author Bio: Kadiyah Lodge is a graduate of Mercy College. Professionally, she has worked with children and young adults. Kadiyah is from Poughkeepsie, New York. In her spare time, she enjoys all things fashion and style, writing, drinking lots of coffee, and taking road trips with her husband. You can find Kadiyah on Twitter and Instagram.
Link to social media or website: Instagram @kadiyahlodge | Twitter @kadiyahlodge
