The Power of YOU
Written by Bailey Young
“Dress to impress” vs. “Look good, feel good”
When we think of the phrases “dress to impress,” or “dress for success,” an inherent desire to prove oneself to others is established. These phrases are rooted in the need to be accepted and, in some cases, gain status. Instead of thinking of fashion as a way to solely appear professional and intelligent, I suggest we start viewing it as a way to harness our own power.
Style and appearance can create a lasting impression of confidence and everlasting success, reminding us that looking the part can be the first step toward growing to be the part So, those with an unsure sense of style likely may develop an unsure sense of self. People who curate their outfits based on their personal styles will in turn feel more inclined to engage with the world around them. Understanding that sense of confidence can stem from how you dress, is important for society as we shift the manner in which we view and label fashion. Instead of continuing the use of the phrases like “dress to impress” and “dress for success,” the phrase “look good, feel good” is more sensible. This phrase is less focused on the public perception of fashion, and more focused on how fashion can be used as a source of personal power.
There is a reason people have a favorite piece of clothing, and it is usually because they feel their best in that piece – they feel comfortable, confident, and expressive of their most authentic identity. So next time you are shopping and find an item you feel unstoppable in, buy it. There is nothing more powerful than finding confidence through fashion and how you style yourself.
The Power of Comfort and Confidence
An outfit can be everything – imagine this. You are wearing a tight dress with kitten heels to an event just because that is what your friends are all wearing. This isn’t something you would normally wear, but you do it anyway. Why? Because you want to be accepted. You want to fit in. It is human nature and built within our societal norms to develop standards and expectations surrounding stylistic choices, determining what is normal and what is abstract. Is it really worth sacrificing your confidence and comfort to wear an outfit that doesn't scream you? That answer seems clear to me – no. We have to learn that dressing the way we want, not how other people want, is the only way we will feel true to ourselves. When you look good, to and for yourself, you feel good. And because of that, you feel ready to engage with the world around you, step outside of your comfort zone, and be completely and utterly you in every aspect of life.
I put this idea to the test by interviewing fellow Vault members and collecting their thoughts. Member Molly Bloomfield expresses her belief that dressing in an outfit you feel confident in helps your mental confidence as well. She notes that: “You really feel more capable of doing things when you are confident, part of that comes from the way you dress,”. Bloomfield also states that to feel confident and represent your true sense of style, you don’t need to be dressing in a completely unique and different way, just in a way that is authentic to you. Whether it's a “special piece of jewelry, boots that make you feel taller than you are, or your favorite sundress,” that pulls the look together, the key to confidence is representing your individuality through your style. The pieces we choose to wear day to day hold meaning whether we realize it or not. Those meanings can empower us and influence our actions. Vault member Hayden Hansen develops a similar sentiment in suggesting that clothes hold power in a way that motivates us to engage with the world around us. Hansen declares that: “when you feel powerful in your own clothing, you’re more in touch with the opportunities around you.” So, our outfits are the key to unlocking a new sense of confidence that is unleashed through channeling our individual style. This transforms our confidence and can empower us to feel like and act like our most authentic selves
Fashion is so much more than simply clothing. Fashion is an avenue for self exploration and expression. Fashion allows people to harness their power, strength, and confidence. Fashion is all about you.
Edited by Gabi Beard and Ana Massoglia
