What makes an outfit is not an eye-catching accessory or trend piece but the person wearing the ensemble. We’ve all run into that girl wearing something you could only dream of pulling off. She exudes energy that goes beyond her outfit and manifests itself in the way she carries herself. She could probably wear a trash bag and rock some Crocs and still somehow look amazing. That’s all because of confidence.
I love learning about the latest trends and showing others how to pull them off, but all the advice I have shared with you this year won’t matter if you don’t feel comfortable in your own skin. Clothes don’t make the girl; they become an extension of her beauty and personality. Confidence isn’t something acquired overnight, but there are some things you can do to build it up. This will not only make you feel better about what you’re wearing, but it will also help you feel great about yourself.
First, you need to stop putting yourself down. Stop trying to find your faults every time you look in a mirror. Be happy with what you have now instead of complaining about something you might (or might not) have one day.
Another essential part to build up your confidence is to get rid of any clothes that don’t fit you. Don’t make the “they’re an inspiration to lose weight” excuse. Keeping old clothes that don’t fit you anymore is like keeping presents from an ex around your room. You’ll only be able to move on once you get rid of them. It might take some extra time and money, but learning how to dress your body is one of the best things you can do to boost your confidence.
You’ll also want to start wearing clothes that highlight your best features. If you have killer legs, show them off with a mini skirt or a pair of shorts. What about those toned arms of yours? Let them shine with a sleeveless top. Find your favorite parts of your body, and let them become the basis for your new outfits.
Don’t be afraid to try something new while finding pieces that show off your best features. Try on things that you may have been afraid to try in the past — you’ll never actually know how something look unless you try it on. Who knows, maybe you’ll fall for a new trend that you can learn to wear effortlessly. Of course, that doesn’t mean to you have to try every single trend you see in the magazines. If you think a certain trend is ridiculous, don’t feel forced to try it. You should always feel comfortable in your own clothes.
Again, clothes should be an extension of you — not the whole package. By having confidence in yourself, you’ll be able to wear just about anything you like, without the approval of others. Once you begin this process, you’ll never turn back.
Let this summer be your time to build up your confidence, and come back to school ready to be the girl who others can’t keep their eyes off. Have a fun and safe summer break, collegiettes™!