Fashion Disorder

Hey guys, I have taken a bit of a break from posting to rebrand my blog. I wanted my first post back to be a little different and more personal. I have struggled with anxiety and a slight eating disorder for a large portion of my life. I think it is important in the fashion world to discuss mental health issues as these two along with depression are very common. I always used shopping and styling clothes as a stress release, which isn't harmful, but it doesn't solve the problem.

So a little about my story, when I was about 13 I didn't like the way I looked I was told I was ugly and fat and so I started to eat less and less. Then I realized that I enjoyed controlling it I could finally control something in my life other than what I wore that day. I thought it would make me more liked if I lost weight, and shocker it didn't change what people thought of me. And a lot of people already liked me. However, because a few had mean things to say that meant I wasn't enough. I struggled with this all through high school and after I got in a bad relationship I lost about 30 lbs in a month. This was when the people around me had, had enough. I appreciate them for the support they gave me to see someone about my issues and work through them. It is not easy and some days it feels like a never-ending process, but I have now been in a healthy weight range for about a year. I still struggle when handling my want for control and my anxiety that comes with it, however, I am so blessed to have people in my life that are willing and want to be there for me.

Within the fashion world we see an image, an image I think is starting to change, but still for the most part it is still smaller, more fit people who model. Some companies are working on this like Aerie. However, this image causes a lot of damage. Honestly, when I don't look like the model in some stores I don't buy the clothes, so the question is, is it even helping the company? Clothing is meant to express yourself in a variety of styles and cuts to suit different body types. I believe that more companies will start to see the value of showcasing diversity in their stores. Together we can cure this fashion disorder, but it has to start with each of us being healthy ourselves. No store can tell you that you aren't beautiful, because you are!

Until next time,