Dressing the Part
Mom Bun Central
Clothes have always been important to me. Whether it was the smocked dresses of my childhood, the grunge inspired thrfited fits of my teens or the going out tops and jeans of my twenties, what I wore has always been a very important part of my self image.
And then I became a mom. Of twins. Early. And my time wasn’t quite my own anymore and spending long bits of time and, importantly, scarce energy contemplating what to wear and what to buy just didn’t fit this new life. It was hard for me to sort out where my sense of self fit in this new life stage I’d entered. It was really tough. And I know I’m not unique. Moms have been preaching the loss of self for ages now. It’s a journey many of us travel.
Power Dressing or Dressing for Power
But even when I had two infants, sleepily trudging through all the newness of motherhood, when me, Leah the person, was not a priority. They needed Leah the mom so that’s what I was. But even still I got dressed. Every single day. Why? Because I NEEDED to. To be myself. To get through those wild adjustments of being a new parent.
What I learned in those days was that for me, clothes brought some levity. And a sense of autonomy. In dark days an orange sweater was the salve my soul needed. My outfit (even quickly and sloppily put together) helped me take control and choose what I would project to the world. It felt like exerting some self-determination in times that were definitely not about me. I didn’t manage a shower everyday but clothes were a non-negoitable.
Lean In
Why do I share this? Not to shame you or guilt you into getting dressed when you really haven't slept and the baby won't let you put her down. I say this to tell you why clothes mean so much to me. Why clothes, the choices around them and the power of dressing is so important to me and why I do what I do. Getting dressed is not a vain pursuit about just trying to look cute or sexy or anything at all except making you feel good and worthy and empowered. Clothes can be a self-care step on rough days. A good outfit can drive a sense of autonomy when one’s very sense of self is in limbo. It can be the armour that makes you feel stronger to take on whatever comes your way. It can be an act of self-determination when life seems unpredictable.
The world can feel dark at times. But a wardrobe that speaks to you and about you can help you feel energized and strong enough to take on the day. Whether you’re baby minding or working your way up the corporate ladder, don’t underestimate the power of a good fit. And if you’re not sure what that is for you - that’s why I’m here. Let’s chat.
