Style is a way of communicating in which certain forms are utilized as tools of meaning, clarity, and symbolism. Every piece of clothing you own communicates a certain message. By wearing that garment and combining it with other pieces, you morph, alter, and expound upon that original message. Ultimately, your entire look (hair, makeup, jewelry, outfit) broadcasts a specific meaning which ideally is of your choosing.

One’s personal style is the overarching visual theme they frequently convey. To successfully and frequently broadcast a specific message is to understand and embrace the reason for its expression. Ultimately, that expression aligns with one’s true path and nature.

One’s nature and path are separate concepts with the potential to be merged into one. One’s nature (fundamental personality, innate body type, coloring) will not change. A tall individual cannot cut themselves into half of their height without losing multiple limbs. A blonde person cannot will their genetics to express the code for dark brown hair. An essentially calm, passive, and logical individual cannot force themselves to become their opposite. Nature is the hand you are dealt.

One’s path is more malleable. Anything that can be chosen, committed to, and integrated falls into the sphere of one’s path. Whether it be career, relationships, or quality of life, one’s path is molded by goals and their fulfillment.

Ideally, one can merge their nature and path so that all communication and style is cohesive and complementary to both spheres.

One cannot simply dress for one’s nature; to do so is to become stagnant. One must always dress in hopes of integrating more and more of their goals into their personal expression so that they become a match to their ideals.

In order to know one’s nature, one must let go of all preconceived ideas about their innate characteristics. All prejudices, biases, insecurities, and self deceptions must be dismantled for clarity of vision and true self reflection to occur. Of course, this is an ongoing journey and one must embrace the long and winding path to self realization.

Still, everyone has an internal guidance system that can be cultivated. By listening to your energy, how you feel about certain looks, styles, and outfits, you can get a sense for what makes you feel more aligned. You can get a feel for what really resonates with you.

Ask yourself why certain styles and outfits make you feel certain ways. Try to hone in on that feeling- where does it manifest in your body? Personally, when I wear an outfit that is aligned to my nature and path, I feel a warm, bubbly sensation in my chest as well as a feeling of solidity and surety throughout my limbs. Something just “clicks in” when I choose appropriate and aligned styling.

Be patient, be open, and remember that you owe yourself more than the false sense of security that jumping into conclusions and categories offers.

xx

Nona