Nostalgia or Denial?
Dear #BeYOUtiful, or should I say – Dear #BeYOUtiful readers?!
You might wonder why I have been away for so long, but nothing like a fresh start by writing a new Founders’ Letter.
From TV Shows to real life, we all live in nostalgia…occasionally.
Our clothes can trigger past emotions and feelings, and nostalgia might take place. Sometimes, we might realise that our lives changed so much that we do not find ourselves anymore. Should we keep living in those memories? Or should we adapt? Or by adapting while not respecting our essence (our needs and feelings), are we depersonalising our true-selves?!
In life, we all stick to what we know best – routines, lifestyle, places, clothing…
As William James wrote:
The Self can be defined as the sum total of all that he CAN call his, not only his body and his psychic powers but his clothes, his house and so on.
In a broader sense, it is interesting how life, sometimes, shows us the reality behind the theory. In the last couple of months or since last year, a new reality was born in my daily life – I stopped writing…creating art…I had not made the time to simply put in words what I have been thinking or living or just expressing myself as when I was comfortable in my clothes (meaning, skin).
In this new reality, I don’t know if I am undergoing a profound metamorphosis, just like a caterpillar, but for sure, Pain has been present.
Embracing Growth and Resilience
Life’s journey is filled with moments that shape us, both joyous and challenging. Instead of dwelling on pain, let’s reframe it as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
Self-Reflection: Rather than seeing our unmet needs as pain, let’s view them as stepping stones toward understanding ourselves better. Every experience contributes to our evolution.
Recognising the Familiar: Even when we feel lost, there’s comfort in recognising our own face in the mirror. It’s a reminder of our resilience and continuity.
Therapeutic Memories: Those fashion shows and photoshoots? They’re more than just images— they’re therapy sessions where we connect with our inner selves. Let’s cherish them as moments of healing.
Life’s Transformations: Moments that alter our path may seem painful, but they also sculpt us into who we are today. Our wardrobe may change, but our essence remains intact.
Our clothes contribute to the perception and image construction of the self. This subjective picture of ourselves is dynamic and changes with age, mood, or even clothing.
Perhaps, should I change my wardrobe to meet my essence?!
— Love, Luís de Oliveira
doliveirafashionblog.com 