What I Learned From My 30-Day Style Challenge
In the latest episode of Balanced Black Girl, I share my current journey of rediscovering and refining my personal style. This unscripted episode transformed into a candid discussion about my experiences dressing up daily throughout September 2024. What began as a challenge has evolved into a reflective, empowering exercise, revealing much about personal growth and the subtle power of self-presentation.
From Fitness Focus to Fashion Forward
During my formative years, fitness was my top priority. While focusing so much on wellness has had a positive impact on my life, spending almost all my time in workout clothes hindered my ability to develop my personal style. Busy schedules and coaching others kept me in comfortable, practical clothing.
However, as I continue through my thirties, I'm realizing the direct correlation between how I present myself and the quality of experiences I attract in both my personal and professional life. In this season of my life, my desires have shifted towards higher quality experiences, prompting serious reflection on past habits and current aspirations.
Recognizing the Need for Evolution
A pivotal part of my story is recognizing where low-maintenance habits in my twenties have impacted several aspects of my life. By sticking to easily accessible, comfort-over-style clothing, I inadvertently reinforced less-than-satisfying experiences in dating, work, and friendships. My twenties were marked with a laissez-faire approach, but reaching my thirties ignited a desire for change. Living in large cities, and diving into content creation full-time have propelled my growth, inspiring me to pursue higher quality in all facets of life.
Dressing Up as a Practice in Self-Improvement
September's style challenge has forced me out of the comfort zone of workout clothes and into a realm of intentional fashion choices, using my current wardrobe. This challenge wasn't about buying a new wardrobe, trendsetting, or mimicking what's on my Pinterest board. Instead, it was a personal journey to attracting better experiences, getting in touch with my personal style, and improving my confidence.
Telling Your Story Through Your Style
Fashion goes beyond fabric; it narrates our identity and self-expression. Dressing up is more than vanity—it's a way to communicate who we are and how we wish to be perceived. This practice has imbued me with increased opportunities and confidence by taking control of my personal narrative through style.
This September challenge wasn't just about fashion; it's about recognizing our power to change and grow, using style as a tool for self-expression and personal empowerment.
Here's my advice for anyone looking to try this challenge for themselves: embrace your unique journey, find your style, and let it reflect the high-quality experiences you seek.
Episode 258 Resources:
- Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
- Shop my beauty and style favorites on ShopMy
- Follow me on LTK
- Episode 249: Beauty and Style Favorites for Fall 2024
- Episode 253: How to Win at Life: The Mindset Shift You Need to Level Up
- Episode 245: The Secret to Getting Everything You Want: Archetype Embodiment
- Episode 244: How to Start Over in Your 30s
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