10 Signs You’re a Fashion Victim and How to Break Free
Fashion is a powerful force that can make or break your style. Trends come and go, but some people get stuck in a never-ending cycle of following them, despite the ill-suited garments that don’t flatter their bodies or make them feel confident. If you’re starting to feel like a fashion victim, keep reading to find out the 10 signs and learn how you can break free.
Sign #1: You Follow Every Trend Religious
It’s natural to want to look your best, but following every trend can quickly lead you down the path to fashion victimhood. If you’re buying items simply because they’re in style while ignoring whether they’ll suit your style or body shape, you might fall into this category.
Solution: Instead of mindlessly following trends, think about your unique style and what works for your body shape. Take inspiration from looks that you love, but don’t forget that you’re allowed to make your own rules.
Sign #2: You Own Clothes You’ve Never Worn
It’s hard to resist a sale or a tempting trend, but if you have items in your wardrobe that still have their tags on months later, that’s a sign that you’re buying without considering whether you’ll ever actually wear them.
Solution: Before you make purchases, think about how you could incorporate the new item into your existing wardrobe. If you can think of at least three outfits that you could create with it, go ahead and add it to your closet; if not, leave it on the rack.
Sign #3: You Only Wear Clothes Once Before Giving Them Away
If you’re someone who wears an outfit once and never touches it again, that’s a sign of a serious fashion victim. You’re not able to fully appreciate the clothes you own and are instead treating them as disposable.
Solution: Challenge yourself to wear one item in several different ways or to different events throughout the month. Experiment to see whether some items work better for daytime or evening events, and don’t be afraid to remix accessories or statement pieces to get more wear out of them.
Sign #4: You Overcomplicate Your Outfits
If it takes you hours to get dressed for a simple outing or even feel uncomfortable in your outfit, that’s a clear signal you overcomplicate. Dressing for success shouldn’t come at the expense of your comfort.
Solution: Go back to the basics, simplify your wardrobe, and create a capsule wardrobe with pieces that flatter your body and make you feel comfortable. Invest in quality over quantity and build a base wardrobe that can mix and match with ease.
Sign #5: You Focus More on Brand Names Than Style
When you prioritize brands over style, it’s tempting to blindly follow what they release each season. Although brand names matter, if you focus more on them than how the clothes suit you, you’ll become a fashion victim.
Solution: Invest in timeless pieces that transcend brand and come to your basics. Start creating a wish list of quality items that work for everyone, do your research to see which brands offer sizing consistent with your body type.
Sign #6: You Assume Certain Trends Will Work Without Proper Consideration
When you rely on the “rules” of a trend without factoring in your shape, lifestyle, and personal style, you’re setting yourself up for a fashion trap. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to style. What works for someone else might not necessarily work for you.
Solution: Start by doing your research and trying on a variety of styles that you like. Take pictures and evaluate them from every angle. Consider whether each trend suits your needs and personal style.
Sign #7: You’re Always Overdressed or Underdressed for Occasions
If you’re regularly receiving the infamous whispers behind your back of “oh, she looks overdressed,” or “she looks underdressed,” it’s time to rethink your strategy. You don’t want to be noticed for all the wrong reasons.
Solution: Dress appropriately for the event. If you’re still confused, ask the host about the dress code or reach out to a trusted friend who knows your style better.
Sign #8: You Have a Closet Full of Impulse Purchases
When you buy clothes on impulse, you’re not being strategic in your shopping goals. You might end up with a closet full of clothes that don’t work together and are just taking up space.
Solution: Make a shopping list of items to buy and stick to it. You can also try on clothes when you’re not in a rush, and don’t be afraid to take time to think about whether you truly need and love the item.
Sign #9: You Keep Clothes that No Longer Fit or Work for You
If you’re holding onto clothes that no longer suit you, whether it’s a required dress code or your body changes, you’re not doing yourself or your closet any favors.
Solution: Assess what works for you and get rid of the rest. Donating these clothes to people who will wear them is a better choice than allowing them to take up much-needed closet space.
Sign #10: You’re Not Comfortable in Your Clothes
If you find yourself constantly tugging on items or pulling at fabric when you wear them, you’re setting yourself up for discomfort and look bloated.
Solution: Clothes should fit and move with you, so don’t be afraid to try sizing up or down. Investing in quality, well-fitting pieces will reduce your stress and boost the confidence.
Conclusion
Breaking free from the fashion victim mentality takes a bit of work, but it can be done. Start by assessing your style goals and the clothes that suit you best. Once you’ve got a better understanding of your style, you’ll be able to make better shopping decisions and build a wardrobe that works for you. Don’t forget to have fun in the process.
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