Constantly moving outside my comfort zone is the core of my life philosophy. Part of it is trying and learning new things, growing as a person and the other half is all about entertainment – because life without change gets kind of boring… fast.
Last week, I was shopping with a friend, when I posted this photo on Instagram:
Blazer & top from Lane Bryant Outlet
An orange blazer is not something I’d normally go for, but I liked the shade. It didn’t hurt that my friend was a good enabler, so I decided to try it out. As a result, I had a conversation with Rachel, of Happyness Magnet who asked if I’d like to join in on a new challenge about moving outside your comfort zone… and the rest is history.
This week, our challenge is titled “Blazing Red”, using a pop of red and a blazer.
Blazer – Eloquii, size 24
Blouse – Evans, UK 30/32
Jeggings – Old Navy, size 28
Heels – Tsubo, size 11
Necklace – Style & Co, via Macy’s
Bracelet – Torrid
Ring – New Look
It was tempting to wear my red blazer and call it a day but that wasn’t really challenging myself, which defeats the purpose. So I dug into the depths of my closet and pulled out an unworn item – this Eloquii floral blazer, and decided to create an outfit of things that pushed me out of my comfort zone.
Here is how I did it:
- Bold, patterned blazer – most of mine are solid and don’t look like your Grandma’s couch.
- Pants – I’m pretty sure you guys know that I hate pants. Nothing new there.
- Heels – I’m a klutz and I like to be on good terms with my feet.
- Dark/neutral colors – I like bright and obnoxious things.
For several months, I was dying for a floral blazer – the uglier, the better. The thrift store didn’t produce any gems and a couple of online options were iffy, until I found this one. The monochromatic print is great and relatively tame. Of course, when I got it, I loved it but had doubts of how it would work in my wardrobe. I decided to keep it because I figured it would pair well with a lot of my bright, jersey dresses – much like my favorite black & white patterned cardigans. I was going to pair it with one for this challenge but again, felt like it was a cop out.
Even though I hate pants, blazers look great with skinny jeans and a longer top, so that’s the route I went. Most of my shirts are too short to wear with pants, since I prefer skirts and tuck in my tops, so this Evans top gets put through its paces when pants are involved.
Heels and I aren’t exactly friends. Being a klutz is tough. I trip over my own feet, I really don’t need any help (or additional height) contributing to my inevitable downfall. A friend of mine introduced me to a few pairs of heels that I can manage to wear for an extended period, walk (semi) gracefully and not kill myself in. Win! These Tsubo heels are one of them.
The first outfit I tried to throw together for this challenge involved a lot of black and was extremely awkward. I love my bright tights, bold lipstick and bright, fun colors, so I tried something new – to keep things dark, with subtle pops of color via accessories.
I even went outside my comfort zone regarding the photos. I prefer natural light and outdoor shots, but on weekdays it just isn’t possible. These aren’t too bad… and you get a peek of our apartment!
I’m pretty happy with how this outfit came together. I’d actually wear it again! Can’t say that about everything I post up here on the blog… but this works! Fashion is supposed to be fun and experimental. I still prefer my dresses, but sometimes a little change in the routine is good.
Check out the other ladies participating in “Outside My Comfort Zone”:
Stephanie: http://www.seeingsp0ts.blogspot.co.uk
Gail: http://www.gailygumdrops.blogspot.ie
Rachel: http://www.happynessmagnet.com
Leah: http://www.justmeleah.blogspot.co.uk
Crystal: http://www.talesfromthefatside.org
Mary: http://www.marysbigcloset.blogspot.pt
Becky: http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com
Since I found fa(t)shion, I’ve conquered a lot of self imposed or societal “rules”, fears and other things that have held me back from doing and wearing what I wanted, just because I have a fat body. And I inevitably learned that the only rule is that there are no rules.
The way you think and your relationship with your body isn’t something that changes overnight. It takes hard work… in baby steps! Try taking a step outside your comfort zone – big or small – and see where it takes you!
Do you push yourself outside your comfort zone? How do you do it? Or are you happy to stay within?
