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The majority of us overthink fashion, let’s face it. We follow trends, browse endlessly for ideas for outfits, or tell ourselves that after another shopping trip, we’ll “find our style.” Here’s a startling reality, though: dressing a little stranger could be the true secret to dressing better.
Does that sound odd? Stay with me.
Many people find that their style truly begins to take shape the moment they begin experimenting, wearing something that seems a little “too much” or out of character. Because you start dressing for yourself when you stop caring about what other people think.
Why We Play It Safe?
Fashion can be intimidating, let’s face it. Because we fear criticism, the majority of us remain in our comfort zones. “Will this appear foolish?” “Will anyone look at me?” “Am I even capable of doing this?”
The problem is that every stylish person you look up to has most likely asked themselves those same questions and still worn the ensemble.
It’s much more enjoyable to dress once you overcome that initial anxiety. The more you try, the less you mind the looks and the more you love being different. It’s like exposure therapy for your closet.
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What ‘Weird’ Actually Means?
Don’t worry, though; being “weird” doesn’t mean you have to start dressing like you’re in a costume play or on a runway.
Weird is subjective. It’s anything that seems novel or somewhat surprising to you. Perhaps it’s experimenting with a striking color, combining different prints, adding layers of texture, or finally donning that eye-catching item you’ve owned for years but have never had the confidence to wear.
Subtle weirdness is possible. It may also be noisy. The sole regulation? You ought to feel something from it.
@troycicotte FAF FRIDAY #grwm
♬ Bossa Nova by a heartwarming jazz piano trio(1306006) – TAKANORI ONDA
Confidence Grows from Experimenting
The amusing thing about dressing strangely is that it alters your feelings as well as your appearance.
Wearing something a little bold makes you care more about expressing who you are than about fitting in. You discover your true preferences rather than just what’s “in style.” And that’s the source of confidence—not having the ideal wardrobe, but knowing that you can customize anything.
Feeling Awkward Is a Good Sign
It’s actually a positive sign if you feel a little uneasy about your attire. It indicates that you are developing.
The clothes that cause you to second-guess yourself, the ones you’re not entirely sure about, are frequently the ones that ultimately define your style. Therefore, try asking, “Does this feel like me?” rather than, “Will people think this looks weird?”
Embrace the Weird
Building a “safe” wardrobe that never surprises anyone can take years. Another option is to dress strangely.
Have fun. Change things up. Wear the color that frightens you, try the outfit that seems a bit too daring, and observe the results. The worst situation? You discover what doesn’t work. The best-case scenario? You find a more liberated, confident, and genuine version of yourself.
Because dressing better is about personality, not perfection. And occasionally, that begins with becoming a little strange.
