When I was a kid I remember loving certain articles of clothing.
I can vividly recall specific things that made me feel so good when I would wear them. I can still picture some of them in my mind: tan corduroy pants, a blue flower dress, my Mickey mouse T-shirt, a green skirt with buttons all the way down the front, a floor lengthy skirt with oriental looking flowers on it, and we can’t forget all the tye-dyed clothes. Pretty much all of those were my favorite.
When I was much younger, I remember loving a special rainbow dress. I’m pretty sure I wore it all the time. It felt so fun to run and spin in. The fabric would swoosh out in a huge circle when I would twirl. It just felt good to wear. And it made me feel good when I would wear it.
Or on those cooler summer days, I used to love wearing shorts with a sweatshirt. My legs would be a little chilly but it would be balanced out by having a large snuggly sweatshirt.
And then I grew up.
I can’t remember the last time I’ve worn something just because I like the way it feels on me. Most of the time I’m just trying to find something in my closet that flatters me–or at least hides the parts I want hidden. When I shop I’m too stingy economical to buy regular priced clothes, so I’m constantly shopping off the clearance racks.
I long for the day I put on an outfit and FEEL good in it again. I long to find the joy in just enjoying how it feels. When I looked back at my list of favorite clothes I was struck by how many of those things were dresses or skirts. I want to wear those again!
So, I’m on a mission. A mission to lose some weight, and start looking for clothes that I actually love. To start making a conscious effort to think about what I want to wear, not just what I have to wear. I know that 90% of my struggle is linked with weight, but there is a small percentage that is purging the clothes that don’t make me feel good and stop buying items that I don’t love. This will take me a while, I know. But it’s time to start.
Best wishes on your venture! I can relate to what you are saying, but I, too, have weight issues and economic issues. But I agree that it would be nice to have a couple of things that I actually love wearing.
Perhaps wear dresses or skirts already that make you feel flattered or loved. And as you sense that feeling it will be easier to eat what is better for you and lose the weight that you so desire. Just a thought.