We live in a time where making a statement is everything. However, the most impactful statement a person can make is a fashion statement. Fashion statements speak volumes and have for centuries. From the colors you choose to wear to even your style of shoes, it all speaks to who you are and what you stand for. Many would disagree and say that they are not dictated by what they wear, screaming,” It’s just clothes!” While some would beg to differ, proudly flaunting their unique style and wanting to make an impression. If what we wear is NOT a reflection of who we are, why do we try our very best to look professional at an interview to land a job? Why do we encourage our teenagers to match and look just right on Prom Night? Why have communities such as the plus-size community, who fought so long and hard to have a dominant position in fashion and still fighting today? Why do we have trends that command the theme of our seasons? Whether trying or not, what you wear does translate to who you are, how you feel, and what you stand for.
What statement are you making in this world? We have seen so many statements made on the red carpet and amongst our community in the past two years, from “Black Lives Matter” shirts to gowns worn on the red carpet with political statements written or painted on – for all the world to see. Public Figures such as Lizzo, Tracee Ellis Ross, and as of late, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, affectionately known and A.O.C., are a few of my favorite “makers.” They have proven that if given the platform, take it!
Lizzo, a musical icon known for her outspoken lyrics and ways, has definitely shown us a few different looks in accordance with her current cause and statement. Never shy and always willing to show her curves, Lizzo is the epitome of body positivity and security in one’s skin. She purposely shows the world who she is with a raw, uncut approach; brave enough to handle any negative comments. Since her different appearances on stage, videos, and social media, she has transformed into a purposeful advocate. Her blatantly bold outfits and comments have won many over in the community of women as someone who “fights” and “really has a story to tell.” She has stood for the LGBTQ community, the right to vote, and many other causes. Her courageous efforts have lent her the opportunity to grace many magazine covers, such as Vogue.
Tracee Ellis Ross is a well-known actress and producer who has heads turn over and over due to her impeccable style and statements through fashion. At an awards ceremony, Ross graced the stage with a ball gown-type skirt and a voting t-shirt. With partners who were at the helm of the Civil Rights Movement, Ellis is known for speaking her mind and supporting causes in many different areas. Her style has been featured online, in magazines and even on television shows, showing the world that when you are given the opportunity to speak and shine, do so!
Last but not least, my hero…A.O.C.! At the Met Gala, she rocked a gown that said, “Tax the Rich.” That statement alone spoke so loudly that every newspaper and magazine publication couldn’t write fast enough! Aurora James, “…the woman who dressed Ms. Ocasio-Cortez for a $35,000-per-ticket event in a white mermaid gown blaring “Tax the Rich” in red scrawl on its back, sending the internet into a tailspin,” says New York Times. Her designer was determined to make a statement, and A.O.C. was proud to be the canvas!
There are times when we could be much stronger in what we believe in and actually stand for something! We allow fear and other’s opinions to fill our minds with so much junk that we lose ourselves and our voice. This season, think about what impression you want to make in your life. Think about standing for something and being strong in that stance! Be powerful. If you want to be a professional, then dress like a professional. If you want to be a rebel, then go ahead and be a rebel. Remember, you are the canvas. Speak!
Article Written By: Sabrina Espere Carrington|@sabrinaespere
