Embrace Your Fashion-Embrace Yourself

Sis, let’s keep it real: style in our 50’s hits different. Our bodies, our health and our lifestyles have changed. And life itself throws curveballs at us. My curveball was my health. Every day I was in excruciating pain. But did I stop? NOPE. I kept on going. Isn't that what we do? We ignore ourselves. Once I finally listened to my family and my body, I received my Rheumatoid Arthritis diagnosis. But again, did I stop? NOPE. I compartmentalized it so I could keep going. I had a business to run, a husband and a family that needed me. Finally, God stepped in and reminded me that if I don't take care of me, how can I care for those around me?

Once that happened, I felt spiritually and mentally stronger. And in the middle of those struggles, I realized something HUGE: I didn’t want to keep showing up every day looking like I had given up on myself. My clothes and my skin were telling a story of pain and exhaustion I hadn’t even realized I was carrying. Depression had crept in quietly, hidden under my “I’m fine” smile and my go-go-go lifestyle. It took my illness slowing me down for me to see it. And once I did? I knew something had to change.

Clothing Yourself in Grace

Fashion isn’t about being a runway-ready fashionista. It’s about how you show up for you. Think of it as a big hug from God — a chance to clothe yourself in grace and step out boldly into the world He’s called you to. For a long time, I was just throwing on whatever fit, with no thought or joy. Mostly a graphic tee and some leggings. But every outfit I put on was either dimming my light or helping me shine. And I want to shine. ✨

The Bible says, “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (Colossians 3:12). That’s not just a checklist for your spirit — it’s a reminder that how we adorn ourselves on the outside can reflect the beauty He’s already placed within.

Fashion as Faith in Action

When you put on something that makes you smile, that’s not vanity — that’s victory! It’s choosing joy in the middle of challenges. It’s reminding yourself and the world: I’m still here, still standing, still shining in Christ.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come” (Proverbs 31:25). That scripture hits differently when you realize it’s not just metaphorical. Strength and dignity can be seen in how we carry ourselves — posture, smile, and yes, even what we wear.

Another favorite of mine: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14). That means, Sis, we don’t have the luxury of dimming down. Our presence matters, and showing up authentically — fashion and all — is part of walking in that light.

The Why Behind the Closet

So NO, this isn’t about chasing trends or spending thousands on designer labels. It’s about being intentional. Choosing pieces that make you feel bold, joyful, and authentically you. Every time we get dressed, it’s an opportunity to wrap ourselves in His promises, to embrace who we are, and to show up looking like the masterpiece He created.

For me, that meant rediscovering the joy of a blazer, a hat, a bold lip, or even a pair of glasses that made me feel alive again. Little by little, I stopped hiding and started embracing fashion and embracing myself. This isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence. You, me, all of us Warrior Princesses — we get to decide how we step out. Let’s do it with confidence, with joy, and yes… with a little fashion sprinkled in for fun.

What’s Next

This is the first in a series I’m calling Embrace Your Fashion, Embrace Yourself. Today, we talked about the why behind Kiya's Closet. Next time, we’ll dive into practical ways you can start your own fashion and self embrace — even if you don’t think you “get” fashion at all.

Spoiler: it’s not about rules, it’s about freedom.

So, Sis, I want to hear from you...

👉 Have you ever looked in the mirror and realized your clothes were telling a story you didn’t mean to tell?

👉 What would it look like for you to start clothing yourself in grace?

Drop your thoughts below — you never know who your story may inspire. 💖

✨ Scriptures woven in: Colossians 3:12, Proverbs 31:25, Matthew 5:14

Fashion is about more than just clothes; it is about feeling empowered and confident in your skin. So go ahead, embrace yourself embrace your fashion, and let your style shine!