The Stories We Tell Ourselves
Since I have the privilege of being with so many different people (women AND men), I constantly hear so many different reasons why clothes/shoes/purses/jewelry don’t work for them. I will put a client in the most stunning outfit that fits perfectly and it never fails, there is some specific reason why it doesn’t work for them. Here’s just a few examples of the types of reasons why…
I’m too short to wear that
I look like Curious George in that Suit
That dress looks like a Chic Factory Worker Dress
My thighs are too big to wear that style
My boobs are too big for this shirt
I wear all black because it’s easy
This is too preppy and reminds me of my childhood
I look like an 80’s real estate developer
My foot is too big to wear that clunky shoe
I look like a rodeo clown in those jeans
The shorts are too long
These are the stories we tell ourselves. They are personal and are our formed thoughts from a variety of experiences. I totally get it and I’m guilty of this myself. I definitely understand and have been stuck many times in my own box.
If you have followed me long enough, you know I despise the word trendy and what it can stand for (trying too hard to keep up and not necessarily knowing your OWN person style). However, I do think it’s important to stay current with the times and it’s important to infuse a few fashion moments that are current into your style.
So while I understand that some new styles (or not really new) are hard to wrap our brains around, I want to encourage you to get outside of your box from time to time while still staying true to your own personal style. I have personally found that some of the news styles for me end up being my go to favorites after I adjust. A great example of that was the cropped flair jeans about 6 years ago…I thought I looked like a rodeo clown. That’s right, one of the examples above was me! They are still one of my favorites to this day. And just think if I wasn’t able to get outside of my skinny jeans box. 🙂
Right now I’m currently getting out of my box with the barrel jeans. They were a hard no for me at first, but recently after visiting a boutique in Manhattan Beach, California they peaked my interest. I’m currently taking them out for a spin and we shall see if they work into my go to favorite jean rotation.
Just a little tip…I always recommend starting by taking new pieces “out for a spin” to your favorite local restaurant to help you gain courage and get used to the style. It doesn’t feel too high pressure or that you feel like you need to be on display for everyone with something you aren’t so sure about. This is an easy way to ease into it.
I share all this just to invite you to rethink why we hold these truths and are they still relevant. I know it’s a fine line to stay true to yourself. You can decide if you want to rewrite your truth and get outside of your own box.
with LOVE and grace,
Elizabeth