The book ‘Big Dress Energy’ introduces a powerful concept: wearing clothes that resonate with how we perceive ourselves and enhance your true identity. Our choice of clothing is a form of non-verbal communication, reflecting our innermost thoughts and beliefs. Shakaila Forbes-Bell writher of ‘Big Dress Energy’ gives us a guide on how we can bring our identity out in our clothing.
1. Dressing in Alignment with Self-Perception
Wear clothes that align with how you view yourself, although it is important to avoid areas of low self-esteem. This principle resonates deeply with the idea that our choice of attire is a form of non-verbal communication, reflecting our innermost thoughts and beliefs.
It is equally important to shed sartorial elements that evoke negative emotions, allowing only garments that make us feel empowered and authentic to grace our closets.
I believe in dressing according to my self-perception and embracing my identity despite any negative perceptions. As I thought about this I realised I had already been doing this;
I love incorporating crystals and jewellery from my travels into my style, adding a touch of authenticity and personal meaning. My old-school spirit resonates with the self-identity promoted by Dr. Martens, a brand that reflects my individuality. Growing up with a street background, I proudly wear big hoop earrings as a symbol of resilience and a reminder that my upbringing is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s all about embracing who I am and sharing that through my fashion choices.
2. Shedding the Clothes of Fear and Negativity
The second principle advises us to avoid wearing clothes that embody the person we fear to be, in fact just get rid of any clothes in your wardrobes of any garments that evoke negative feelings. Maria Kondo offers great advice by doing this. By gathering every piece of clothing that you own into a pile and one by one analyse the feeling each item gives you. Feelings of happiness means stay. To anything that don’t make you feel happy, Maria
Removing these pieces allows us to curate a collection that uplifts and empowers us, promoting a positive and authentic self-image. This principle aligns with the idea of clothing as a form of self-expression, enabling us to exude the best version of ourselves through our sartorial choices.
It’s true that wearing clothes that don’t make you feel good can create doubt and insecurity. When it comes to fashion, it’s important to choose pieces that uplift and empower you. I currently work with teenagers and the challenge of staying current without feeling like a “granny.” So when my Friend described my new cute backless heals as granny shoes it put me off them.
It’s tough when someone’s opinion affects your confidence, especially when it comes to something as personal as your style. It’s okay to take advice, but ultimately, it’s about wearing what makes you happy and confident.
3. Embracing the Best Version of Yourself Through Clothing
Identifying the outfits that represent the best version of ourselves is at the core of the “Big Dress Energy” philosophy. This principle invites us to curate a wardrobe that embodies our inner light and strength. It encourages us to infuse our identity into our outfits, turning dressing into a form of art, a canvas through which we can paint the masterpiece of our individuality. By embodying our best selves through our clothing, we project an image that is authentic and empowering.
I see myself as a mysterious, bubbly, and passionate individual with a strong spiritual and creative side. I always strive to express these elements of myself through my style choices. Being creative and brave with how I dress is important to me. I enjoy being daring and wearing items that resonate with me, even if others are unsure about them. Despite my friends laughing at my fashion choices over the years, it has only empowered me to embrace my true self and showcase my best self through my unique style.
4. Infusing Identity Into Your Outfits
Seeping our identity into our outfits is a powerful form of self-expression. This principle encourages us to let our unique essence permeate through our clothing choices, allowing our wardrobe to reflect the depths of our soul. By doing so, we create a collection that is not just an assortment of garments, but a testament to our individuality, passions, and beliefs.
5. Celebrating Your Body with Gratitude
Addressing body image concerns, the fifth principle of “Big Dress Energy” invites us to focus on the body parts that we love about ourselves and bring attention to them. By celebrating our bodies and dressing them in ways that highlight the features we adore, we foster self-love and acceptance. This approach encourages a more positive and empowering relationship with our clothing, promoting a sense of gratitude for our bodies and the unique traits that make us who we are.
My favorite body parts to highlight are my legs and my hair, so I often wear outfits that show off my legs and let my hair be big and voluminous. Enhancing your best features can give you the confidence to truly be yourself. I love playing with bold colors, patterns, and silhouettes to create a look that is distinctly me. Fashion is a form of self-expression, and I embrace that wholeheartedly.
Note From Wednesday
As I continue to explore the intersection of sustainable fashion and personal empowerment, I am excited to embark on this transformative journey of self-expression and self-celebration through clothing. I encourage all readers to explore the principles of “Big Dress Energy” and start infusing their wardrobes with the essence of their true selves.