The Fashion of Representation

Fashion is more than what you wear. It’s a way of communicating who you are to the world. You can convey your mood, your origins, and even your thoughts with a simple piece of clothing. For centuries, people have worn black to display grief; brides wear a white dress to symbolize purity and fidelity. That cute, pink Boston Red Sox baseball hat? It not only shows your love for the Sox, but that you’re a proud Bostonian, or New Englander. What a cute way to rep your city or region! And we all know that wearing a piece of iconography such as a Louis Vuitton bag or Gucci belt says that you have an affinity for luxury. Even in school, sports, etc., wearing a uniform shows what school you attend, sport you play, team you play for, or even that you serve your country.

In today’s day and age, fashion is as accessible as ever. Between online and brick and mortar thrift shopping, TJ Maxx and Marshall’s, and shopping in general, so many brands are at your fingertips. My eye doctor carries Versace frames-fashion is everywhere! It’s so easy to get caught up with popular labels and the latest trends. But I think mixing in some personal representations not only make your outfits chic, but super personal and unique. I love doing that. I have friends who are police and military, so if I’m running out to do errands and want to stay cute and comfortable, I’ll throw on my Pasco Sheriff Department t shirt with leggings, wedges, and my Kate Spade shoulder bag to stylishly show that I Back the Blue. I also know firefighters and paramedics, so on a chilly day, I stay warm and chic, AND show firefighter/paramedic support with a Thin Red Line or Thin White Line scarf I created and designed (feel free to shop those looks on my Etsy Shop: it can be found at my Oliviana Couture Shop there). And - since today’s St. Patrick’s day - add a pop of green to show Irish pride. And for us Italians, for whom St. Joseph’s Day (which is on March 19th), is a big deal, add a splash of red to your wardrobe while you indulge in some zeppole.

That’s what I love about fashion. It can be anything you want it to be - you the sky’s the limit as to how you can style your outfit. That beloved sweatshirt from your favorite travel spot, t shirt from your alma mater, or shirt that reps your favorite cause can be added to your daily outfit rotation with some simple, creative editing. The fashion of representation - there’s nothing more cool or stylish than that!