Every night before I go to bed, I stand in my closet and take 30 minutes to pick out my outfit for the next day. Clothes have always held a place in my heart and life. When I am in my closet, I get to decide who I’m going to be the next day. My clothes help shape my mood and productivity. I only allow myself 30 minutes because too much time brings doubt and judgement. During that short window, I am able to really focus on what’s important.
I love being able to feel inspired and use my creativity. I have had clothes for years and still find new ways to match them up. The different textures and stories behind every thread makes each item unique. Someone spent so much time handcrafting this garment. It inspires me to put my best foot forward in everything I do.
This ritual makes me feel grounded. It means outside of this closet, everything is uncontrollable, but I can control who I am going to be tomorrow. It means I am able to create an outfit that represents me and helps boost my confidence. It isn’t just picking out an outfit and calling it a day. It’s standing in my closet reflecting on the days past and the days to come. It’s me recognizing what’s important to me and what I want to accomplish.
Things that matter:
The song “Stacy,” by Quin XCII. When I hear this song, it makes me reflect back to a few summers ago. My summer job connected me with an awesome group of people. We became the best of friends and created memories I will never forget. I gained a roommate, became a bridesmaid and found an amazing support system. That summer changed my life.
The book “Oh, the Places You’ll Go,” by Dr. Seuss. This book created the foundation for the life I live. When I was a child, I knew the world was my playground. I grew up believing I could go anywhere and do anything my heart desired. I still believe that.
My French macaron recipe. I have always loved baking, but I never considered myself a true baker until after I perfected a French macaron recipe. I tried and tried for weeks to get the perfect macaron, and I finally did. It felt like such an amazing accomplishment, especially for someone who isn’t trained. I tried a recipe people who have baked their whole lives barely try. It showed me I can do anything I put my mind to.
Putting on my makeup. Just like clothing, I have loved makeup for as long as I can remember. Contrary to popular belief, makeup isn’t just made to cover up. It’s also made to accentuate and bring out creativity. Every time I apply my makeup, it feels as if I am painting a new canvas. Prior to applying my makeup, I am face-to-face with some of my biggest insecurities. Instead of running away from them, I am able to face them straight on and appreciate me for who I am.
A hand-sewn recycled basket from my grandmother. My grandmother used to spend days creating art from recycled plastic bags and other plastic material. I loved getting those items as a gift. She created a new life out of something people don’t think twice about.
My first-ever Kate Spade purse. I was 16, and for my birthday, my older sister surprised me with this most perfect baby blue purse. It was the first-ever high-end product I owned. I felt like I could conquer the world with this bag. Unfortunately, receiving this bag created a slight purse obsession. But, maybe that isn’t a bad thing?
Morocco. Both of my parents were born and raised in Morocco. I remember going there as a kid and feeling like I just came to an alternate universe. The customs and people were unlike anything I witnessed growing up in Arkansas. It was always a huge culture shock when I would have to come back home after spending a whole summer in Morocco. When I think of Morocco, I think of home, family and tradition.
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