Hand Applique Bib Vest
February 02, 2025

The Art of Dressing: A Personal Journey of Self-Expression Through Clothing

Clothing is one of the most beautiful ways to express who we are. There’s a certain magic in opening your closet, pulling out different pieces, and seeing how they come together -- like puzzle pieces forming a story only you can tell. The thrill of mixing textures, colors, and silhouettes feels much like a painter standing before a blank canvas, each choice adding depth and emotion. It’s a creative process - one where you lose yourself in the joy of discovery, only to find yourself reflected in the final look. And the best part? That feeling of uplift, the boost of confidence and joy that comes from wearing something that truly feels like you.

Above: Banana Republic Shirt, Injiri Skirt, Bib Vest made by Stylebiased

For me, clothing isn’t about brands or trends - it’s a form of self-expression and creativity. I love discovering unique pieces that feel like an extension of who I am. My eclectic style is deeply rooted in my Indian upbringing, where colors, textures, and craftsmanship shaped my perspective. While my style has evolved over the years, I continue to cherish classic Indian fabrics and techniques - cotton block prints, Kota Doria, Jamdani, Chanderi, Maheshwari, Bandhani, and Ikat to name a few. I enjoy reimagining these time-honored textiles in a contemporary way, blending heritage with modern aesthetics. Mixing and matching unexpected pieces excites me, and I find endless joy in the process of creating outfits that feel uniquely my own.

Above: Ichi Antiquités Dress, Asa Clothing Khadi Denim Naturally Dyed Jacket, 11.11 Clothing Scarf, Camper Sneakers

When people ask me, “Where do you usually shop?” I find it difficult to answer because curating my wardrobe is a long, involved process. Sometimes, I stumble upon a one-of-a-kind piece that I know I need to grab immediately before it disappears. Other times, I obsess over something for weeks or months before making a decision. My closet is an ever-evolving collection - tailor-made garments from India that I’ve had for years, vintage and secondhand finds from places like The RealReal, Etsy, Poshmark, and small independent stores, along with timeless staples from mainstream brands. I also cherish high-quality, offbeat pieces from independent designers that last for years and become wardrobe staples. And of course, I incorporate some of my own self-made creations.

Above: Vanilla Tent Top by Ilamra, Quilted Block Print Pants in Mint, Silk Kantha Vest purchased at a fair in India, Robert Clergie Boots (favorite!) via The Real Real

Despite my love for clothing and textiles, I believe in maintaining a lean closet and repeating outfits often. I live by the philosophy of "Buy Less, Choose Well, Make It Last." It’s not always easy in today’s world, where social media constantly bombards us with ads and tempts us with new, shiny things, but I try to be intentional. If I grow bored with a piece, I give it a break for a season and come back to it later with a fresh perspective. If I feel ready to move on from certain garments, I resell them through popular reselling platforms. I try my best to make conscious choices to reduce waste and consume fashion in a responsible way by investing in well-made garments and caring for them properly.

Above: White Tee from Target, Vintage Kantha Quilt Jacket, Tory Burch Sailor Pants via TJMaxx Runway

I also steer clear of trends. Fashion should feel authentic, regardless of what’s currently in style. Interestingly, as a mother of preteen and teenage daughters, I see how challenging this mindset can be for younger generations. My girls, like many middle schoolers, are immersed in a world where “fitting in” is the norm. I often feel conflicted as a mom, wanting them to embrace individuality while also understanding their desire to belong. I always hoped to raise them to embrace originality in their clothing choices, but peer influence is strong. It makes me wonder - how do we teach our kids to celebrate their uniqueness in a world where trends dominate and social media shapes their preferences, even when they aren’t actively on these platforms?

Above: Maria Stanley Shirt, Studio Medium Dress (favorite!), Anokhi Scarf, L' autre Chose Boots via Yoox

Ultimately, clothing is personal. It tells a story, reflects emotions, and serves as an artistic medium. Whether it’s an old favorite revived in a new way or a treasured find that feels like an extension of yourself, the beauty of fashion lies in its ability to empower and inspire. So dress for yourself, embrace the joy of self-expression, and let your wardrobe be a reflection of your true essence.

Above: Chikankari Jamdani Mogra Dress by Chowk, COS X Lemaire Pants, ATP Atelier Sandals