How do I want the world to see me today?

This is always the first question I ask myself once I open my closet door.

“Sleek, professional, effortless, boho, beachy, urban, casual, model-off-duty…” the options weigh heavily on my mind as I sift through the clothing hangers. 

Personally, I find nothing more refreshing than being able to re-create your own “persona” through fashion choices. You are able to take on a new role, to an extent, with each outfit. That is what I find to be unique about the world of fashion; the possibilities are endless.

I come from a small hometown where fashion isn’t a common interest, and high fashion is often unheard of. It wasn’t until a few years ago when the magazines on the shelves began to draw me in, and the colors and fabrics of the clothing in the editorials started to inspire me. Over time, I began to appreciate these creations even more, and I admired their artistic originality. Fashion became more than just the stereotype of rich teenage girls shopping; it became a major part part of my life as I learned to grow into myself as a young adult.

Fashion is often seen as a petty, materialistic interest in society. There is a lack of appreciation for all aspects involved in the industry: the artistic expertise, marketing, hardworking designers and models, as well as the precise work of photographers. Meanwhile, their creations are sparking influence and creativity across the globe- whether on the runway for fashion week or to the girl sitting in her bedroom trying to figure out what to wear to school the following day. Fashion and the industry itself has taught me about all of the hard work that goes into creating one masterpiece, or conveying a story. There is more to the industry than fashion and a price tag- there is often a story, a feeling, or a character behind the clothing,

Figuring out who you are is sometimes very difficult, but fashion has helped me along the way. Finding my signature style is something I consider to be an achievement, because it conveys a sense of who I am as a person. Style can change with the events in your life, and the idea of having new ways to express yourself is refreshing in today’s world. Fashion has given me increased confidence to express who I am, and to realize that, yes, I can “pull it off”.