I recently had to write an introductory blog about me for my new job. I started last month as the new social media copywriter at Shopbop, a high-end clothing e-tailer. The fashion world is a far cry from my former editorial stint in the manufacturing and distribution sector, and I am really feeling the difference when it comes to what I choose to wear to work each day. There is no dress code, either, so anything goes – which makes me constantly want to reach for old t-shirts and my standby cowboy boots – and then promptly feel a bit frumpy when I walk through the door.
Here’s a version of that blog going live this afternoon at the Shopbop blog, Shoptalk:
I will be the first to admit that I have never been very fashion-forward. I’ve always dressed more casual than casual chic.
I was always – and sometimes still am – afraid to try something new. It didn’t matter if it was a trend everyone else was wearing, I just could not step out of my comfort zone.
And it became a viscous cycle: because I never tried anything new, I never felt comfortable trying anything new. Putting on a dressier pair of pants drew attention to me that I wasn’t prepared for, making me uncomfortable. Donning some dangly earrings made me feel out of place. But in recent years, I’ve acquired a new-found appreciation for fashion and all it entails.
I think this change of heart has less to do with my style changing, and more to do with the fact that I’ve learned that it is my style – and I can decide whatever that looks like.
On that note, I propose The New Fashion Manifesto:
• I don’t have to wear what everyone else is – especially if it doesn’t fit my body type.
• If I decide to follow a trend, I don’t have to follow it to a T. I can adopt all or part of it, wear it however I want, and not feel out of touch.
• I can choose to skip a trend entirely – and not feel like I’m missing out.
• I will wear what I like – even if other people don’t like it.
• I will own whatever it is. I will wear it with confidence. My style will be “me.”
I think that last point is key: I need to own my style. Because that is what it is: my style. I decide.
I think this new manifesto will come in handy as I choose what to wear – and what not to wear – this fall.
What about you? Are you afraid to try “new”? Or are you as confident as can be when it comes to your style?