What’s Your Fashion Identity?

The clothes that we wear can say a lot more about our personalities than we would like to believe. Clothes can display socio-economic status, body type and image, our insecurities and our strengths. High fashion is often reserved for the wealthy and those who conform to a specific beauty ideal.  I don’t give that ideology any merit. At any size or income bracket you can find outfits that make you feel confident, sexy, and validated.

My outlook on clothing has changed throughout the years. I was once confined to big and tall stores and the clearance section of Marshalls. I was the poster model for FUBU, Roc-a-wear or any other urban collection that pandered to overweight black men. Big and Tall stores carried more mainstream brands but at higher costs. I was priced out.  I then adopted the motto, “If it looks good, wear it” I started buying pieces that complimented my shape no matter what size. I relied heavily on accessories to give my outfits character. Ties, Pocket Squares, Vests, Layering, Jackets, Bowties etc are all items that can enhance an outfit. There is no reason for bigger men and women to restrict themselves to oversized Hawaiian shirts and drape dresses.  Women, Lane Bryant, Monif C, and Ashley Stewart have outfits that embrace the curves of plus size women. Catch them on clearance; use coupons, save up for STAPLE and VERSATILE items.

Now that I am able to walk into just about any store and shop, I am more selective with the items I purchase. I like higher end items but I DON’T pay retail price. I have a list of designers that I enjoy and I search for their product. GOODWILL is my best friend. I look for items that align with my fashion aesthetic.  The bargains are mind-boggling. As a young professional, I must always look the part but I don’t have to pay the price.

It is problematic when clothing no longer becomes about personal choice and identify but a false sense of validation. We look at fashion as a character trait and build our wardrobes before we edify our soul. Then, we use it to create a hierarchy within our communities. “You’re not wearing this, so you’re beneath me” We must break this habit.  As I highlighted earlier, wearing a label doesn’t always mean that person is affluent. Yes, clothing can show wealth but sometimes it doesn’t.  Let’s put out stock into qualities that matter and leave materialism and vanity on the back burner.