Beautiful image of this model wearing the dress.. Doesn't she sell it well?!

Beautiful image of this model wearing the dress.. Doesn’t she sell it well?!

Have you ever come across a piece of clothing and just fell in love it with it? Like, actually have it show up in your dreams and keep thinking about it? For me, this is not typical. Like most women, I have a hard time choosing clothes I feel “reflect” my style and also fit me well.

But a few years ago, I came across this dress that just caught my eye. I saw it in a catalog and wanted it immediately! Maybe because the model looked so happy and relaxed, laying there on the beach in this adorable dress. Regardless, I loved the style and loved the print and really wanted it.
All of this is a bit out of character for me. I like clothes and style, don’t get me wrong. But, for some reason, this dress had an immediate impact on me and I couldn’t get it off my mind! I searched the web to find a better price, since I felt it was a little out of my budget for a “dress”. Then I dreamt about it. Then a week later I happened to be shopping with a friend nearby the store that sold the dress..

After some encouragement from my friend, I decided to try the dress on. I had the money in my pocket so I decided if it fits right, I’m pulling the trigger and buying it! When I put the dress on I discovered it had pockets! What?! Adorable and practical? Right up my alley! Needles to say, I purchased the dress and didn’t look back.

A few months later I saw Zooey Deschanel wearing the same dress on her television show. I’m a fan of her and her style so I thought that was pretty awesome. She’s always wearing cute clothes that I would be too afraid to wear in fear that I will be judged.

Zooey in the dress on her TV show.

Zooey in the dress on her TV show.

Well, a lot has happened since I bought that dress! Some life changing events that gave me a different perspective on life, shook my self-confidence, and made me really think about who I am and what’s important.

So, with my confidence still needing some work and still holding on to the fear of being judged, a few weeks ago, I decided to wear the dress to an event I was attending by myself. (I know, brave right?!)

The person I was that day could care less if anyone didn’t like my dress! Because I LIKED IT!! I wasn’t wearing it for compliments or to get noticed. I was wearing it because it made me feel good, happy, and pretty.

That day I decided to let go of the self-doubt, let go of the fear of being judged, and just be me. How liberating — and gratifying! Who knew just being unapologetically you could feel so good!

As a boudoir photographer, I get the pleasure of helping other women with the letting go. When my client decides to rid herself of the self doubt and fear, and just enjoy being herself, it’s the most rewarding experience! It didn’t take me long to see the value in these sessions and want to offer it to all the women around me.

So my advice to you is the next time you are concerned about whether or not someone will like your style, let that shit go.. and just wear the damn dress!