I was going through some of my photos recently, and found it interesting to see how my style has evolved over the years. Someone recently told me I look like a librarian. A few years ago someone else commented they’ve never seen me wear anything that isn’t highwaisted (they still wouldn’t).
I have always been interested in style. While I wouldn’t be considered a fashionable trend-setter, I know what I like and my shopping habits reflect this more so than they used to. When I was first entering my twenties I was drawn in by new clothes and the promise that this would be the perfect garment; something to make me feel confident and beautiful all the time. This, of course, is a big lie. I’ve since realised the value in buying what I like… and what suits me. What’s funny is how these two are usually the same.
While there are times I see a beautiful outfit or hairstyle that I like but know won’t suit me, I’m not tempted to buy or copy it. Because I know if I don’t feel good wearing it, I won’t! It’s not worth it. I can appreciate the creativity and feel inspired by fashion and by people without needing to look exactly like them. I have a large Pinterest board of styling clothes I own and like, and a much smaller board of outsides I find beautiful but don’t look like me.
There is also something to be said for lifestyle. While I love formal dresses, how often would I wear them? I watched a video recently of someone who grouped their clothes into different categories, and then explored how often they have a need to wear these different groups. For instance, I work full-time in an office, so it’s completely reasonable for me to own more blouses than athletic wear. When I consider how often I go to church as opposed to a wedding, it makes sense to own more casual dresses than formal. Not to mention factors such as climate and hobbies. As most of my hobbies are indoor (writing, reading, sewing), I don’t need a lot of extra items to do these (as opposed to someone who played sport, for example).
As a Christian I do find myself torn between knowing how much importance to place on style. I don’t want to become so focused on appearance that I lose what’s on the inside. But I also believe that how we present ourselves is important, and how we feel about ourselves is important to God. As we are made in God’s image, and as He loves and accepts us, I don’t think we should hide ourselves. I don’t think being insecure or ashamed of what we look like, or who we are, is the life God wants for us. Of course our appearance is not all we are, but it is part of who we are and it is something we can glorify Him in.
Sarah xx
the softest words 