This isn’t just a fashion blog post; it’s a heart-to-heart. It’s about navigating style after life-altering experiences, embracing body positivity while working in the fashion industry, and remembering that personal style is just that – personal.
My Style Journey: Body Positivity and Fashion
Recently, a birthday dinner triggered a flashback to high school, reminding me of the judgment that can sometimes surround fashion. Growing up in Queens, NY, with my grandmother and aunt, I learned early on to dress for my body, not fleeting trends. My upbringing instilled in me a love for style, an appreciation for finding designer deals, and a focus on financial priorities. This foundation has served me well, especially as I’ve faced significant life changes.
After a month of fashion weeks, where I showcased trendy looks and spotted new trends to report. I was ready to embrace some of the season’s fun trends: rugby shirts, sparkly tops, baggy jeans, and balaclavas. As a Gen X’er, these styles are familiar friends, having made the rounds in my fashion life.
My initial dinner outfit plan revolved around that effortlessly chic London-to-Paris weekend vibe: slouchy denim, oversized knits, elevated athleisure, and maybe a touch of leather. The goal? Stylish, but not too casual, always ready for impromptu content shoots with my amazing crew. (If you’re a fashion creator, you understand the drill!)
My Sunday afternoon took an unexpected turn. While prepping for a shoot, I decided to throw in an extra look – my favourite DYNAMITE pencil skirt paired with different tops. Running late, this became my dinner outfit. Since most attendees work in fashion, I figured a slightly more “intense” look at 1:30 pm wouldn’t raise eyebrows. (New York roots, remember?)
My friends loved it! They complimented the look, noting its sexier vibe. But later, as the dinner wrapped up, I experienced that high-school flashback. The lingering glance, the whispered comments… “Hey Charlotte, let’s unpack your outfit.” Vixen on top, 80s Madonna skirt, “walk of shame” shoes. Were they making fun?
My friend’s pep talk was exactly what I needed. A reminder of my Caribbean-New York roots, my rich and layered style references, and the confidence I usually have in my fashion sense. It was like dusting off that self-assurance after a stumble. Then, a DM from another dear friend: “Charlotte, I love this look for you, you look young and happy.” Positive vibes are essential, especially as I focus on my health and prepare for upcoming surgery.
Key Looks: A Mix of Trends and Personal Style
My dinner look consisted of a DYNAMITE pencil skirt and a DYNAMITE top worn in different ways paired with various tops and accessories. It was a blend of current trends and personal style, reflecting my diverse fashion influences.
Charlotte’s Back Story: A Journey of Resilience
My story includes surviving a coma, living with a hernia, and preparing for surgery. It’s about navigating these challenges while working in fashion, running an online magazine, and embracing body positivity as a Black woman. It’s about the ups and downs, the mental health struggles, and the constant evolution of self. Style Tips to Camouflage Your Midsection:
The Power of Personal Style
- A-line or Empire Waist: These styles draw attention away from the midsection.
- Wrap Dresses: Flattering and adjustable, wrap dresses create a defined waistline.
- Peplum Tops: The flared hem of a peplum top provides gentle coverage.
- Strategic Layering: Kimono jackets or open cardigans can create vertical lines and conceal the midsection.
- Dark Colors: Darker shades tend to have a slimming effect.
- Statement Accessories: Draw the eye upward with bold jewellery or a scarf.
Embracing Change and Self-Acceptance
This journey has taught me that personal style is a powerful tool for self-expression and self-acceptance. It’s about finding what makes you feel good, regardless of trends or others’ opinions.
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“Dress for the body you have, not the body you wish you had.” “Style is about feeling confident and comfortable in your skin.” “Embrace your unique beauty.”
