Fashion fades . . . only style remains the same.
– Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel
Yes, I understand that this column is diverging from my usual nutrition and fitness information, but wait…maybe not so much! Let’s face it, we want to be healthy and fit in order to feel well and be well but we also want to look good. There is no shortage of shopping venues and, in recent years, fashion advice in every conceivable magazine, blog, and media opportunity. (Although I am primarily addressing women here, obviously many of the opinions relate to men as well.)
One thing we all have in common from birth to death – we wear clothing – if you do not you are probably not reading this column . . . For you that may be mostly casual, career, uniform, and everything in between. So let’s examine some of the most important precepts to keep in mind when selecting our wardrobes in order to look our best.
Fit – isn’t it interesting that we use the word “fit” to describe our physical selves as well as how our clothing looks and feels on our bodies? I have selected “fit” to address first because I believe it to be the most important aspect of how we select our attire. Without a proper fit, beginning with our undergarments, we cannot expect to either look or feel well-dressed. And I will say, ladies, a proper fitting bra is key to the fit of anything else you layer over that item. Underwear which fits properly can also help you breathe correctly and improve your posture. Regardless of your size, the proper fit will accentuate your best features and allow you to feel your best. When purchasing garments, always use a three-way mirror, twist, bend, and sit – after all we are not mannequins! Remember also that sizes of designers and manufacturers frequently differ in their actual fit. Do yourself a favor (and a possible return trip to the store or the mailbox) by taking your time to try on the item before you purchase. And, yes, I have had a few return trips myself!
Style – as Ms. Chanel indicates, style does remain the same. Your individual style, that is. Style is available to fit every budget and when you know your style, shopping becomes easier, less frequent, and more satisfying. You look and feel your best. You probably knew (but maybe did not acknowledge) your style preferences in early adulthood, but that is also the best time to experiment with fashion, and it is fun as well! However, fashion experiments can be costly, time-consuming, and take up a bit of closet space as time progresses. Find your style (look around your home – your clothing style probably somewhat mirrors your décor as well) and your fit, focus on what appeals to you – vibrant colors, pastels, lace, tailored, ruffles, etc. Personal note – you will seldom, if ever, find me in anything but neutral colors and a tailored fit, that’s just my style preference though I enjoy and appreciate the many different styles of my friends. Add some current and seasonal “fashion” accessories, enjoy a healthy diet and active lifestyle and you will feel confident in the choices you have made.
As we just celebrated Mother’s Day, I extend my best wishes to all my fellow mothers out there and offer up a homage to my own mother who passed many years ago. A tall (forward on her high school basketball team!) and slender woman with a close resemblance to Ingrid Bergman, she had a style which included tailored suits, “cigarette” pants (known to this generation as “skinny” pants) plain silk blouses, straight skirts, and of course – pearls! I have found, interestingly, that all of those style elements are my favorites as well. So whatever your personal clothing style, consider fit before fashion, take good care of yourself (especially all of you mothers out there!) and enjoy the confidence of staying true to your best self.
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.