In case you haven't figured this out, I talk about fashion a lot. An awful lot. I focus on it even when the subject of fashion doesn't appear to be an appropriate topic like during staff meetings, team building events, and just about every corporate scenario you can imagine. (I once attended a meeting with a Vice President and I couldn’t concentrate because his tie and eyeglasses looked like they survived the 70s.) So I realize that fashion and style may be a tad bit more important to me than most. And I don't believe that everyone should share my enthusiasm. But some of the excuses I hear to justify a person’s appearance are just sad. Here I’ve identified the top 5 excuses given for looking like crap. I’ll also give some alternative solutions that will hopefully offer a more positive approach to getting dressed.
5. I don’t know how to dress or put outfits together. This comment is fair. If you don’t know how to do something the status quo becomes your comfort, even if it’s not yielding favorable results. Alternative Solution: Increase your style IQ. Read blogs like STYLEnosh (I know it's a shameless plug but I couldn’t resist) or The Budget Fashionista which has an extensive advice section in addition to its fashion and beauty categories. Flip through magazines for inspiration like Lucky, Glamour, or Marie Claire. And don’t forget books like the What Not to Wear host’s book Dress Your Best, The Lucky Shopping Manual, or InStyle’s Instant Style.
4. I can’t afford new clothes. Here we have another legitimate excuse. I don’t ever recommend spending money you don’t have. Alternative Solution: If you are interested in updating your closet, you should create a budget that supports your goals. Once you determine how much you can responsibly spare to spend, you can shop at discount stores like Target, Old Navy, or Marshall’s which can help stretch your money. Or you can peruse the clearance racks at department stores like Macy’s or Parisian.
3. I don’t have time. This refrain is just not true. As my good friend always says, “It takes just as much time to put on something ugly as it does to put on something cute.” Alternative Solution: Don’t use lack of time as a crutch. If you struggle to get to work on time (boy can I relate), pick out your clothes the night before. Or my all time favorite rule created by my friend's Mom when we were in high school, select all of your outfits for the upcoming week on Sunday. You don’t have to wear designer clothing or be fancy but you should attempt to be well groomed and presentable.
2. How you dress isn’t as important as the work you do. If only that sentiment were true. You may have the greatest ideas ever but if your look is baggy, sloppy, or inappropriate, no one will get beyond your appearance to appreciate your wonderful ideas. Alternative Solution: Kill this logic immediately since you’re not fooling anyone. At least put on a pair of clean pants and a decent shirt. Remember, people see you before they hear you.
1. I really don’t care. This comment is the poorest excuse of them all. You may not care. But I doubt it. Saying you don’t care about the way you dress is just a cop out. It’s easier to say “whatever” than it is to change your appearance. Alternative Solution: Try to understand the cause of your nonchalant attitude. Are you uncomfortable with your weight or do you just not own clothes that inspire you? Once you understand what’s causing your discontent, you can start to make changes that will improve the way you look. And don’t because surprised if you start to feel a little better too.
I think i have made every one of these excuses at least once!!!! Your blog rocks!
Jenny (from Sam and Jen's house)
Posted by: Jen Gammichia | March 22, 2007 at 04:48 PM
Thanks Jenny! Remember, admitting you need help is the first step towards recovery!!!
Posted by: STYLEnosh | March 22, 2007 at 06:24 PM