My family keeps telling me to dress more stylishly, but honestly, I can't afford it. Even Zara feels luxurious to me now; I'm always trying to buy things on a budget. Should I be persuaded otherwise, or should I give up my own style? What do you do in situations like this?
Honestly, it's a very familiar situation. I had something similar, my mom kept saying "what's that on you" and all, but back then I could barely afford anything from LCW. Then I said, here's the deal, I had this much, I put the receipts in front of her. Did I push it a bit? Yes, I did. But they understood.
It's such a familiar feeling to me... Especially when looking at the closet in the morning and criticizing myself with "is this what I'm going to wear?" that's the worst. You literally lose your confidence. You're right, Zara has become incredibly expensive now, especially if you're trying to make it everywhere.
I'm going to ask this, but are they trying to convey a different message through clothing? For instance, when they say to dress stylishly, is there an expectation in the family like 'show yourself'? Or is it just the classic 'family pressure' of 'what will the neighbors think'? 🫣
There is this thing, but the family is not saying it’s a bad thing while wanting this. They are right in this respect: People adapt to life through visuals, it leaves an impact on the other side. It shouldn't be too difficult to tell them, 'my budget is this much'; I think if you put in a little effort, they won't act like children.
As far as I understand, the issue is not just financial, but there is also a communication problem. In situations like this, both sides usually misunderstand each other. The family might be giving the "take care of yourself" advice in a very emotional way. You need to discuss clearly what you are able to spend. Instead of verbal communication, you could try showing it with a written plan.
Let me add this: My mother is someone who is very caring both for herself and for the neighbors. She insists that "a person should wear something that suits them when going out." But for example, my father often says, "manage your own money." I'm stuck in the middle; I actually want to make my own financial plans.
Ah, that "wear what suits you" phrase just kills me. My friends are always dressing from Marks & Spencer and the like, while I'm finding my stuff at vintage markets. But you know, fashion is really just a cycle. I always say, it just takes a little creativity; I think just forget about Zara and all that.
My family always said that money can make a person a minister or a disgrace. Unfortunately, in our society, appearance is still like a business card. I will openly recommend this: dressing stylishly and neatly is essential. If your budget is tight, why not buy from second-hand shops or small boutiques? It's possible to find things that are both cheap and of good quality.
