What I Want from Fashion

What I want from fashion is fun. I once lived by the motto that getting dressed was like a daily art project. It’s not just about looking good. It’s also about self-expression, comfort, enjoyment, and yes, art. I believe that whether you’re going to work or preparing for a party, getting dressed should be fun. It’s a way to be sure you bring the right attitude to whatever you’re doing. I don’t want to abandon my own asthetic for the sake of a beige outfit for my beige job. I got hired at this job for a reason, damnit. They like what I had to offer, so I’m going to be myself every day.

I want to feel really good in everything I wear. I want to know that my clothes fit me and are attractive and appropriate for the occasion. And I want to be physically comfortable as well. I believe wearing too-tight pants, shirts so low they make me self-conscious, or shoes that make my feet ache is not just a silly decision but also a chip in my self respect. I respect myself enough to always wear things I love and to never force my poor tired feet into painful shoes. My body is not a slave to fashion!

I believe trends are fun and mostly harmless. Keeping up with trends is a fine hobby. I will not make fun of anyone for hopping on a trend bandwagon… Ok, maybe a little bit, but only in good fun.

I will never immitate anyone else. I will borrow ideas from those who inspire me, but I will make them my own. I have to remember that I am me and only me. Not only can I not become another person, but I don’t want to. For me, this is about being happy in my own skin, not becoming someone else. Writers are trained to learn from what the experts do best, but there can only be one Emily Dickinson. Only one Gay Talese. And I’m the only me.

I believe we all wear unfortunate outfits occasionally. It’s forgivable, but we should learn to laugh at ourselves.

Finally, I intend to bring more creativity into my life by incorporating it into everything I do. I will try new things, and every time I wear some new thing I’m not so sure about, I will think of it as a step toward the daring life I’ve always wanted to live. After all, if you’re scared to wear dayglo nail polish, will you ever get around to those big dreams you’ve been hanging on to? You’ve got to start somewhere!

- From Fashion Manifesto @ NoTitles