A Wren Says

A few years back, I desperately needed some professional clothing. It was time to start networking and attending conferences. I wanted a look that screamed, “You should hire me. I can definitely do whatever job you got.” But at school in what felt like the middle of nowhere, the local Dress Barn was the best option nearby.

Upon entering the store, a pleasant associate asked what I was looking for and was helpful in grabbing some suitable selections for me. I went to the fitting room set aside for me excited to find some winning looks. But after putting on the first outfit, I saw my reflection in the mirror and began to cry. I gathered my things, left the store quickly and didn’t look back.

Perhaps, my reaction was overly dramatic. The outfit was not horrendous. It certainly would have worked for the event. The problem was how I felt about my body. In that moment, all I could focus on was all of my insecurities. I had to finally come to terms with just how much my body had changed in health and appearance. I wasn’t the size I thought I was. The shapes and designs I was used to gravitating towards didn’t work. I was overwhelmed and got out of there as soon as I could.

Enviously, I watched other people put together outfits enviously. I put myself on the fashion sidelines because of how I have felt about my body. I don’t want to do that anymore. This year, I want to conquer the fitting room. I want to have fun with fashion again, no matter what my body looks like.

I want to spend time this year learning more about fabrics and silhouettes so I can determine the styles that work best for me. I want to look at size charts for their important fit information instead of jumping to conclusions on what I think might work best (and being disappointed). And I want to learn more from stylists to learn some more tips and techniques.

I know that many other people also struggle to feel good in their own skin, let alone with the fabric on top. I want to think more about how fashion isn’t a vain pursuit but a key tool to help us all feel our best and grow in confidence in the other spheres of our lives. Here is to a much more fashionable year ahead. And many more days spent playing dress up in the fitting room.

Daily writing prompt

What colleges have you attended?

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