How we present ourselves in this vibrant world often feels like a delicate act of balance-especially when stepping into new territories or roles.
Recently, as I prepared to attend a boutique conference as a new boutique owner, and going by myself, the question, "How should I dress?" weighed heavily in my mind. Will it be perceived as too much, or perhaps not enough? After much contemplation, I decided to embrace authenticity, choosing pieces from my own boutique that I felt most comfortable and genuinely myself in. I know that typical chatter I have with myself and it usually begins with what others think and then ends with what I will feel most comfortable with and what is true to me.
Leading up to the conference, I had a lot of emotion with being new in this space. My life had been dedicated to leadership in banking. I was successful. I never went to a conference where I didn’t know someone and had built a good reputation for myself. This is a new industry, I am not successful yet, I don’t know the talent, the people, the strengths yet. I heard a quote that said something about “don’t worry about your reputation, it is someone’s elses opinion about you that doesn’t matter. It felt good to hear that. I was going to this conference just as myself and starting a new journey and I wanted it to be fun. But I am not going to lie, I felt the pressure to have a cute outfit.
On the first day, I wore my regal puff shirt paired with white denim jeans. My ensemble was complete with the addition of my favorite jewelry pieces (jewelry always brings the fun).. Stepping into the hotel lobby, ready to catch the bus to the conference center, I immediately recognized my fellow boutique owners. Their style was distinct—not the kind I was accustomed to from my corporate days—but rather a blend that spoke of femininity, less formal but equally polished, designed for both comfort and style to also include some shopping of the Dallas market.
The connections began in moments as simple as a greeting. The conversations flowed easily, and the camaraderie was instant. It was a beautiful experience; throughout the day, around 30 women approached me with a sincere desire to find out about my boutique, what I was liking about the conference, what they liked, and a lot of compliments on my outfit. It was more than just validation; it was a warm welcome into this vibrant community of women, a testament to being seen and accepted.
This experience led me to reflect on the powerful role that fashion and personal style play in building connections and community. It's fascinating to observe how style can serve as a bridge between individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect. The women I met at the conference were not just being nice; they were also acknowledging my place among them, affirming my identity as a fellow entrepreneur, and extending their friendship.
From wondering about my wardrobe choices to later trying to decide which group of women I should join for dinner, the day's progression was a beautiful illustration of how fashion, style, and the supportive nature of women can create meaningful connections. It underscored the idea that when women come together, there's an innate understanding and support—a recognition of each other's journeys, challenges, and achievements. It’s remarkable how a simple gesture, like a compliment on an outfit, can be the beginning of lasting friendships and professional relationships.
It isn't just about clothes or compliments; it's about the incredible community that forms when women support each other, recognizing and celebrating each person's unique expression through fashion. It's a reminder that sometimes, the right outfit doesn't just make you just feel good about yourself—it can also open doors to new friendships, opportunities, and experiences.
Have you experienced a moment where fashion, a cute outfit, an interesting piece of jewelry played a pivotal role in connecting you with others? I would love to hear from you.
My personal email is cg@cyou.love
Love, Cyndi