Hello Everyone! I am so excited to begin a new blogging adventure here on AmandaBeth. I am a small business owner and I blog about that over on my own site. It is not fashion-related, so this is definitely a new experience for me. I am in no way claiming to be an expert on this subject. In fact I would say I have much to learn. However, I have learned a few things in my endeavors to cultivate a Christ-honoring perspective on fashion, in a world that does not hold modesty and femininity as a thing of value. I have five sisters that share in this endeavor with me. They are my God-sent companions in this area of my life and I have learned much with them and from them. I would like to address some of the difficulties that many of us face when we head to the mall on a mission to find ANYTHING fashionable yet modest.
Being women who value modesty and have set boundaries on what we are willing to wear, we have very limited resources. I’m sure that this is not news to you! Learning to develop the proper outlook on this challenge can immensely affect how we choose to deal with it, and what the outcome will be.
Over the years I have come to think of what may seem like a pebble in your shoe, as a tremendous opportunity to express creativity. We have an amazing opportunity to take what we have to work with, which isn’t much, and turn it into something that can be unique and distinctive.
Being creative often means being open minded. We must be willing to try new things. Trying things that you think would never work is a great way to discover new looks and styles. Just remember that it is so important that we think of this as an opportunity not an obstacle.
In light of the fact that we have very limited resources, it can be very difficult to create that distinct style. This not only requires a creative mindset but some pretty resourceful actions. I read a quote recently that said “ impression without expression leads to depression.” I think this is a really accurate description of what a lot of us are facing when it comes to expressing ourselves through fashion. It can be so hard to take everything that leaves an impression on us and make those things part of our wardrobe. Learning how to express ourselves will help relieve a lot of the frustration. This means we must first find the things that make us unique.
Many things can influence your style. You never know were it could be coming from so always be on the look-out for inspiration. If you have trouble defining your style, here is an excellent project to try: (This technique is used by designers and artists to help them pinpoint their style.) Start a scrapbook or notebook and fill it with magazine clippings, fabric swatches, buttons, pictures - anything that can be applied to fashion. Just be sure it’s things you are drawn to. Anything that catches your attention can go into your collection. It may be hard to spot a distinct style at first, but over time you will begin to see reoccurring patters of things that depict your personal taste. I think you will find this a very effective tool in refining your unique look. Not to mention how fun it is!
Lastly, I know we all have taken to heart that beauty is internal, but the more I struggle with external appearance I notice something about this subject. Have you ever seen one of those girls that just seem like they don't have a problem in the world with being fashionably modest and put together? They make it look effortless and easy. I really believe that this is because it’s truly part of who they are. They are letting what is on the inside flow into how they express fashion.
When we are reborn into the life of Christ we become who He wants us to be. I think we should be very in tune with this as we dress everyday. This is where the real joy of fashion comes from! Let’s let Him give us our desires when it comes to fashion.
___________________________________________________________________
Images: Saltwater.net / Cabionline.com / Fashion-Era.com
0 comments:
Post a Comment