"How to Make Your Fashion Choices a Form of Self-Love and Empowerment: The Ultimate Closet Guide

Fashion is much more than just clothing; it is about how those clothes influence our feelings and personality. Clothing serves as an extension of our identity, mood, and journey towards embracing self-love. When we dress with intention and celebrate our unique style, we foster a deeper relationship with ourselves. In this guide, we will explore how fashion empowers us on our path to self-love. I will also share tips to revitalize your closet, transforming it into an exciting and joyful space that reflects your true self. I am currently getting rid of all my old clothes, and starting fresh with new fashion tastes in 2025. Read on for more guidance!

Self-love and Fashion <3

Understanding the Connection Between Fashion and Self-Love

Have you ever gone into your closet and looked around and found nothing you liked, nor cared that you have nothing you liked? You know something deep down wishes you had something you'd like to wear but something inside you just doesn't care. I believe this is a lack of-self love and acceptance for one-self wholly and completely. In no way am I saying you have to be fashionable to love yourself, I just think there are many layers of self-love and one of those layers is enjoying and taking pride what you put on your back. I hope the result of this read will inspire and help shape our closet spaces to bring us joy, make us feel like ourselves, and to help us feel fantastic and confident each day more and more. You deserve to feel fantastic about yourself, and so do I. I'm writing this blog because me, like many other people, struggle with self-love and I wanted to share my insight .... it's a hard journey but it's worth it. I'm determined to be victorious in it and love myself unconditionally the way God loves me. I am on a mission to love myself completely.

Buying ourselves our favourite coloured roses is another way to say to ourselves, "i love you"

The clothing we choose can significantly influence our self-esteem and confidence, I know it does for me. Currently, I am pregnant and wearing all my husbands clothes because it's all thats going to fit me for the next 6 months! Right not for me this season i need to feel comfy to feel confident because the pregnancy makes me feel unwell so far , all the time. So it works right now, but the closer my baby is to being born the more adventurous i feel to get with my own new timeless wardrobe.

My husband and I did a spiritual cleansing of our wardrobes not too long ago where we throw or give away or sell anything we don't want/like/wear anymore. We are Christian and very spiritual and sometimes you just don't get good vibes from your clothing anymore; just like styles change, WE DO TOO and our wardrobes should coincide with these inner changes of becoming the best people God designed us to be. Wearing outfits that resonate with us is not merely about covering our bodies; it is a declaration of who we are and how we view ourselves. If we don't like ourselves, I know from personal experience we will not like or care about the clothes we wear, and that's just not enjoyable. So, today we are going to accept ourselves, forgive ourselves for past mistakes, move forward and on from past hurts that held us back, (this goes for me too), and throw away any piece of clothing in our wardrobes that don't bring us joy anymore. GO GO GO.

Research indicates that wearing clothes we love can raise our confidence by as much as 40%!! For example, putting on a vibrant dress might boost your mood, allowing you to face the day with energy and positivity. This pure magic of elevating our moods occurs because our fashion choices can in-fact, affirm our true identities which is an incredible feeling. My mood literally has a direct correlationg with what i decide to put on that morning, for real.

Recognizing and embracing our personal style is crucial to self-love. Take a moment to reflect on what inspires you. Is it the colours, patterns, or particular fabrics? By aligning your wardrobe with your true self, you take vital steps on your journey to self-love. If you are struggling to love yourself and struggling with a new wardrobe, i want to tell you you're not alone, I'm going through it too. It's time for me and any anyone reading this to make some healthy positive changes in our life, and we can start right now with our closets.

Surrounding Yourself with Positive Influences

While self-love is a personal journey, the support of our community is important, too. Friends and family can uplift us and inspire us to embrace our unique fashion choices, or they can put us down. One time I told a family member what I was excited to purchase and he called down on it and it really hurt. I distance myself from these people. Surround yourself with those who value and actually encourage your individuality and support you in your personal fashion sense.

Suggestion: try organizing a casual clothing swap with friends. Everyone can share standout pieces from their wardrobes. You might discover items that ignite joy and become cherished favorites. Plus, this practice gives clothes a new life and rekindles excitement in your closet.

Creating a supportive space allows everyone to express themselves without fear of judgment. Even a simple, but real compliment on someone's outfit can uplift their spirit and increase their confidence. Be a good friend and genuinely compliment your friend today on their outfit or even better, a stranger! I love when i get compliments from perfect strangers, makes my day.

Decluttering and Revitalizing Your Closet

A cluttered closet often leads to feelings of frustration and stress and is just overall not good for our mental health. Self-love begins with creating a nurturing space for your style. Decluttering is not just about removing clothes; it symbolizes letting go of past emotions and negative self-perceptions, and even certain people in your life that weren't good for you for example a toxic relationship. (if you still have gifts from an ex boyfriend or a girlfriend) time to get rid of them NOW. Do it.

Go in your closet and select everything you don't wear anymore, don't like or just get bad vibes from and make piles one item at a time; GIVE, SELL, THROW. For example in my case, I used to be a party girl and go clubbing and have all these sexy and beautiful dresses; I changed because I found Jesus and he changed my heart and I dress modestly now (more on later blogs about that) and I just want to give or sell most of those dresses because I don't want to be reminded of the drinking and partying lifestyle. What changes have you done, on the inside? I'd love to hear your comments!

For more in-depth decluttering strategies in general I highly recommend watching Terri Savelle Foy, a Christian woman who I follow and helped me a-lot in my life with clutter and organization.

When you're in your closet start by evaluating which clothes genuinely make you feel good. Focus on items that bring joy. If you haven't worn a piece in over a year, consider passing it on. Research suggests that donating your clothes can increase your sense of self-worth by creating space for what you love, thereby renewing your connection to your wardrobe, and your connection with your true self. And, you do a good deed and God will reward you for that :)

After decluttering, think about ways to revitalize your closet. Explore local thrift stores, online marketplaces, and boutique shops. I also enjoy online shopping, especially SHEIN. Very fashionable and affordable clothing. Unique, well-curated pieces can breathe fresh life into your wardrobe and further foster self-love. OR, if you follow my blog I am going to learn how to sew and create my own pieces!

minimalistic and colourful clothing rack adorned with vibrant dresses.

Building a Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a smart way to simplify your life while remaining fashionable. It consists of a curated collection of versatile pieces you love and can mix and match effortlessly. Capsule wardrobes started back as early as the 1970s. Susie Faux originated the idea, the owner of a London boutique called Wardrobe. According to Faux, a capsule wardrobe contains a few essential and timeless items, such as skirts and pants, that can be supplemented with seasonal pieces. 

To create your capsule wardrobe, follow these essential steps:

1. Determine Your Essentials: Identify the key items that fit your lifestyle, such as high-quality jeans, classic blouses, jackets, and versatile footwear.

2. Choose a Color Palette: Select a cohesive color scheme, making it easy to combine outfits. For instance, if you choose neutrals with a pop of color, you can create numerous looks. For me specifically, I am colourful in my-true nature so when I go shopping I'll look for bright colours that will give my wardrobe life and excitement. What are your favourite colours? Get out there and start shopping for them! Wearing your favourite colour is one heck of a feeling. It lights up my heart.

   
   

3. Include Statement Pieces: Add a few standout items that enhance your outfits, like a chic blazer or a vibrant scarf, or a pair of red classy heels.

   
   

4. Quality Over Quantity: Invest in well-made clothing that stands the test of time. High-quality items last longer and project self-respect. I know I have to do this more... I can vouch for this that quality is better than quantity even if i find something super cute online (cheap) and not great material it won't last very long. Best advice right now is, for me also, is just put yourself on a budget each month that you're allowed to spend on clothing and stick to it. That's what I'm going to do for months until I complete my wardrobe.

   
   

By embracing a capsule wardrobe, you enjoy a stress-free dressing experience while encouraging a stronger sense of personal style. Let's Go!

Mindful Shopping: Being Intentional With Your Choices

Practicing self-love through fashion includes being intentional with your shopping habits. Instead of buying impulsively, take the time to reflect on each purchase.

Ask yourself questions like: “Do I truly love this?” and “Will I wear it frequently?” This mindful approach helps prevent overcrowding your closet and ensures that each piece brings joy. Studies show that individuals who engage in mindful shopping report higher levels of satisfaction with their purchases.

Consider the impact of sustainable fashion choices as well. When you support brands that prioritize ethical practices, you're not just caring for yourself but also showing love for the community and environment. This approach strengthens both your values and your self-love journey. Do some research...

Dressing for Yourself and God, Not Others

One of the most important aspects of self-love in fashion is dressing for YOURSELF rather than seeking approval from others. This is something i struggle with. When I put something on I love i think, what will my husband say about this, or my parents, or people in general? I'm tossing this mindset out and in 2025 for the rest of my eternity I vow to dress for my own unique beautiful soul and Jesus. I wear modest and classy clothing that reflects who I am , my spirit, and honors God in the process!!

  It is easy to fall into the trap of following trends or wearing items we think others will approve of. Real confidence stems from wearing things that resonate with our unique essence of our being.

Take the opportunity to explore various styles and trends without fear... there is no rush. Experiment with bolder colours or unique patterns. When you dress for yourself, you project authenticity, encouraging others to embrace their true selves as well. Yes, you may encounter skepticism or negativity, but remember, each fashion risk is a testament to your journey of self-love and self-discovery. And as the saying goes..haters going to hate. We don't care what other people think in our new wardrobe style (that's a waste of time) but care only about what YOU and GOD thinks. Our own opinion and HIS are the only ones that truly matter, anyways.

Celebrate Your Progress and Share Your Journey

As you navigate the journey of self-love through fashion, celebrating your progress is crucial. Each new addition to your wardrobe and every outfit that makes you feel radiant reflects an important step forward.

Share your style journey with others, whether through social media, a fashion blog, or even drop comment here i'd love to hear how fashion reflects your self-love journey or just makes you feel better and in general. It's wonderful, isn't it? I know it is for me. I have struggled on and off with depression for 10 years maybe more and I know when i like what i'm wearing that little elevation in mood, is really everything.

By sharing your experiences, you create a support network that can inspire and uplift others in their self-love journeys.

Always remember that fashion is intertwined with self-love. By nurturing our connection to personal style, we empower both ourselves and those around us. Let us continue to uplift one another, courageously explore our wardrobes, and embrace the vibrant energy that comes from dressing for ourselves and for the man who created us, Jesus. When you look good, you feel good, and you do good.

When embraced wholeheartedly, fashion can be a joyful expression of self-love. Transform your closet into a space that celebrates who you are, reflecting the dazzling individual you truly are. And you are, truly, amazing.

"Love your neighbour as yourself" Leviticus 19:18