What the World Sees

Our clothes have loud expressive voices. They yell out to the world expressions that work for or against us. Take a minute to think about the message that your attire is sending.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the verb fashion as: "a) to give shape to: mold. b.) Alter or transform. c.) to mold into a particular character by influencing or training. d.) To make or construct usually with the use of imagination and ingenuity."

Fierce fashion is about creating, transforming, and purposely giving your clothes a message that you can boldly stand behind. Clothing, like cosmetics, when properly done, alters our appearance, transforming our personality or outlook of the day.

Getting dressed with purpose takes thought and imagination. First things first: What is the message you want to convey?

Personally I stay away from anything that states a lack of confidence, exudes a "love me and leave me" attitude, or the all too familiar "I'm wearing it because everyone else is."

Take your message seriously. For example, when I have classes all day, I want to be comfortable. Sweats and a sweat shirt would be my choice. However, the way my sweat pants fit my body proportions comes into play. Subtle details such as cleanliness and accessories assist your clothing in conveying a message.

Next, I would choose for my top an attractive fitted sweat shirt and t-shirt that fits my body proportions. I can't stress this enough! I get extremely tired of looking at girls who should be wearing girdles wearing shirts that were not made for their body type, or guys who look like they painted that shirt on.

Women, we must consider our cleavage. We do not have to expose the girls to show off the girls. So let's take this myth out of the equation. A bra that is properly sized for your comfort and support by a professional works miracles. The same rule applies for under garments. If you're not sure what is out there or what size is the best for you, there are online resources, and plenty of department stores have someone in the lingerie department who would be more than willing to assist you.

OK, we have our form fitting sweat pants (not too tight or baggy); we have chosen a T-shirt that silhouettes our shape gracefully and an attractive pullover that coordinates with our sweats. It's time to turn to hair and makeup. Whether your tresses are natural, synthetic, long, short, curly, kinky, straight, or braids, your hair should tell the same story as your outfit.

A cute playful ponytail or a neat updo with hairpins should suffice. The updo adds a sense of femininity and effort to this relaxed style. If your hair is braided, twisting your braids different ways and securing them with hairpins will give you a new look. As for kinky hair, there are plenty of hair forums such as curly Nikki, and YouTube has a wealth of how to videos that will guide you step by step. Worst comes to worst, you can wash, deep condition, moisturize, braid your hair, and try a sew in or full cap wig. Hair disasters do not have to be.

Cosmetics should always match the time of day, where you are going, and your outfit. For this style, light makeup is required. If you are a foundation wearer, make absolutely sure that the foundation matches your complexion well. Otherwise you will have the ghost face. If you have sensitive skin, a light dusting of baby powder works just as well.

A variety of brown shades, a gentle pink, or a well-blended (not too heavy mixture of browns) with a dusting of a soft pink eye shadow is perfect with this look. When applying mascara/false lashes, remember this rule: heavy and dramatic looks work at night (depending on where you're going), and light and simple looks work during the day.

Another component is fragrance. During the day, your fragrance should be subtle. I prefer a fresh clean scent in the day and a light, bold, sweet scent in the evening. The best way to keep your scent is to layer.

Last but not least, put on jewelry that one has to take time to notice.

Fashion is about expressing to others how you feel about yourself. Time, effort, confidence, and character equals fierce fashion. Until next time, stay true to your body image, creativity, and the very silent but loud message your clothing will convey.