Fabulous fashion frees the soul

I have a problem. I am tired of seeing the same things. Originality amongst students is not one of SMU’s virtues.

Although substance comes from within, expressing oneself through fashion gives us endless freedom.

Herein lies another problem. When we express ourselves through clothing and accessories, we often get scrutinized. Is it fair? No. Realistic? Yes.

This should not, however, be the deterrent to dressing the way we please and feeling secure or good about it. This should not be overlooked as a meaningless, superficial “only at SMU” issue.

These days it seems like every major tabloid and magazine bash celebrities for baring their midriffs, showing too much cleavage, looking too outlandish or for that matter, too boring.

With all this mudslinging, why should you be expected to feel comfortable when looking at your reflection in the ridiculously positioned mirrors in poorly lit dressing rooms?

The answer is multipart. You are drawn to the item. You would have never tried it on unless you were attracted to it in the first place.

You are trying to put an image in people’s minds. You want to look like someone else. It fits well and flatters your body. Then again, maybe you just liked it.

When people gawk because your wearing something you adore, more often than not they are envious.

This jealously is not rooted in their burning desire for the specific piece of clothing you are wearing, but of your confidence and ability to wear it. They covet the freedom you are displaying.

When Bjork walked the red carpet in that infamous swan frock at the Oscars, she was securely asking to be tabloid fodder.

Last Sunday at the Golden Globes, Lara Flynn Boyle plied across stage in a ballerina’s outfit, tutu and all.

Many viewers raised an eyebrow and dismissed the stunning Ms. Boyle as a too skinny, too weird, C-list actress begging for attention. Granted only she knows if she felt insecure.

I would put all the money in Vegas on the fact that she thought she looked flawless. I tip my hat in a congratulatory gesture. Bold and beautiful mix well.

The same goes for men. Brad Pitt was ridiculed heavily when he proudly grew facial hair longer than the Unabomber’s.

His excessive confidence was apparent as he watched his wife accept various awards throughout her year-long sweep.

Constant public criticism greases this well-oiled machine of insecurity. When Justin Timberlake and his bandmates get berated for dressing a bit too “gay,” they overcompensate by disregarding women through sexual exploitation.

Clothing should not be the catalyst for psychological weakness.

Make a statement. Talk to people without having to speak a word.

Next time someone questions your clothing, smile and sternly say, “I like it.” Without batting an eyelash, quickly turn the question around and ask, “Is this not just fabulous?”

After all, who made them the authority on getting dressed? I sure didn’t!

Fabulous fashion frees the soul

Fabulous fashion frees the soul