Why I Love Fashion by Tasha H.

Fashion provides an opportunity for us to develop an image that we portray to the world. Right after I finished graduate school, I went on a bit of a shopping spree...

Why I Love Fashion

Fashion provides an opportunity for us to develop an image that we portray to the world.  Right after I finished graduate school, I went on a bit of a shopping spree.  I replaced nearly my entire wardrobe, with the exception of a few of my favorite pieces.  It wasn’t until later that I realized that I had gone and bought things that I thought would make me look (and feel) like a “writer.”  My new wardrobe was far more professional than my old one, but it was infused with a lot of whimsical pieces.  Someone could look at me and get the feeling that I was some type of creative professional.

One reason that I love fashion is because it can help to transform me from the outside in.  Changing my clothes can actually change my mood.  If I feel like I need to be a little more assertive in a situation, I’ve found that wearing a pair of high heels does wonders.  Not only do they make me a little taller, but they force me to stand with my shoulders back, which is a naturally assertive position.  Much of the success of the lingerie market depends upon this very premise. 

Among all my other personality traits is an intense curiosity about people.  The way artists choose to express themselves is a unique opportunity to get a glimpse into their minds.  It is fascinating to look at the offerings of the different designers to see their point of view.  For example, the styles of Mila Jovovich reflect her time in the industry and her understanding of how to dress a woman in a flattering style.  You can look at her clothes and get the sense that she would just be fun to hang out with on a Saturday night.

The clothes that various artists choose to wear also give us curious types a little insight into who they are.  It’s no coincidence that the Academy Awards are nearly as much about the fashions as they are about the movies.  We see the styles of the stars and find ourselves making conclusions about them as a result.  Think of what Piddy’s clothes say about his self confidence, for example.  Nicole Kidman’s wardrobe choices add to her allure as a classic screen goddess, while Lil’ Kim’s ensembles create a completely different type of story in our minds. 

Have you ever heard someone say that the lottery is like a tax on those who are bad at math?  For me, that dollar is about so much more than the infinitesimally small chance that I’ll hit the jackpot.  Instead, I’m spending my dollar for the chance to fantasize about what I would do if I did defy all the odds and end up a big winner.  I imagine the life I’d lead and the person I would be.  I spend my dollar for the way that fantasy makes me feel.

Fashion has a similar effect for me.  Spending $30 on a new sweater generally has very little to do with whether or not it’s going to keep me warm on cold Northwest winter nights.  Instead, it’s about how it will make me feel.  Any girl can tell you that a new dress is an investment in how she feels when she wears it.  When you feel gorgeous, you come across as confident and empowered.