An Expression of Self

Fashion is a language, one that is globally written and read.  A language where full creative freedom is afforded. An outwardly expression of our internal beliefs, values and sense of self. It is a silent yet powerful form of communication that allows us to articulate the messages we wish to project into the world. 

It is not only an expression of one’s style and aesthetic decisions, it is a political statement. Where we choose to buy our clothes and what we choose to support all plays a role in transmitting those values which we hold close to our consciousness. 

Our sense of identity is armoured in fashion’s power to express the subtle differences that make us individual. For some it acts as a shield, a creative outlet, an escape or form of self discovery. It is one of the more nuanced ways in which we interact with the world we live in. 

Beneath the layers of fabric and print, silent messages drift through the void waiting to be received. So whether consciously or subconsciously, through every choice and action we communicate a message. Even the very notion of ‘not caring’ conveys something whether we realise or not. 

These messages signal the formation of cultural groups within society where a sense of belonging and identity can be sought or found. 

So then the question is, do we really dress for ourselves? It’s the cliche one-liner we’ve heard time and time again – “no but I dress for myself”. I have said this on countless occasions and I still stand by this expression to an extent but whilst unpacking the power of communication that fashion holds, I dove deeper into this phrase that occasionally masked the unconscious truth. 

Fashion empowers you and it’s a choice that YOU make so naturally you’d think that you do it for yourself. The fact of the matter is, there will always be an element of influence that extends beyond the self. You might not dress for others but through your choices others receive the purposeful messages that you communicate. 

It’s all very interesting and equally confusing but at the end of the day the only thing that really matters is that you own whatever it is you seek to convey and love what you see inside and out…