Have you ever found yourself staring at a striking dress in your closet, wondering, Is this too much? Will I look overdressed? And then you end up never finding the right occasion to wear it? Many of us have had that moment of hesitation before putting on something that feels a little "too daring." But here’s the thing: there’s no such thing as “too much” when it comes to your personal style.
As the famous Feminist and Author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie so powerfully said, “We teach girls to shrink themselves, to make themselves smaller. We say to girls, ‘You can have ambition, but not too much.’” This shrinking may show up in how we dress too. We're often taught to downplay, blend in, and avoid “making too much noise.” But what if we unlearned that? What if we let ourselves be unapologetically authentic?
Here are some practical tips on how to dress with confidence without ever feeling overdressed:
1. Start Small but Strong: Confidence isn’t something that happens overnight; it grows, and so can your style. Start by adding one standout element into your outfit, like a patterned top, a statement skirt, or a vibrant accessory such as a colorful scarf or necklace.
For instance, our Mafarki Orange Àdìrẹ Hand Dyed Kimono is the perfect starting point. It’s eye-catching but easy to pair with more neutral pieces like jeans or a simple white dress. This way, you get a taste of expressive fashion without feeling like you’re overdoing it.
2. Choose Designs That Speak to You: One of the keys to not feeling overdressed is making sure you feel like yourself in what you’re wearing. Don’t force yourself into a fit just because it’s trendy. Choose designs that align with your vibe, this could be a color that makes you feel feminine, one that brings out your eyes, or simply a shade that warms your spirit.
3. Ease into Color with Accessories: If you want to try prints without committing to a full outfit, start with accessories like scarves, belts, or shoes. A patterned scarf or statement bag can elevate a basic outfit without making you feel out of place. Accessories are a subtle way to incorporate lively patterns into your wardrobe.
4. Consider the Occasion: Context matters. While you should always feel free to wear something vibrant, it’s good to consider the setting to ensure your outfit feels appropriate. A dress may be perfect for a dinner party, but for a more formal work meeting, you might opt for a blouse under a solid blazer. Understanding the vibe of an event will help you feel more comfortable in your outfit.
5. Balance Is Key: If you’re going for a vibrant piece on top, consider a more subdued look on the bottom, or vice versa. Balance doesn’t mean being dull; it's about creating harmony. Let one piece be the focal point, while the rest complements it.
6. Find Your Color Palette: Everyone has colors that make them glow, shades that bring out their inner confidence. Find your color palette. It could be deep jewel tones like emerald green or rich primary shades like stunning red or cobalt blue. The best part? You don’t need to stick to neutrals to avoid being “too much.”
7. Confidence Is the Best Accessory: No matter how stunning your outfit is, the true showstopper will always be your confidence. One of the reasons people feel overdressed is because they’re second-guessing themselves. But what if you didn’t? What if you walked into a room knowing that your look is a reflection of who you are: confident, unique, and unapologetic?
Fashion is as much about how you feel as it is about what you wear. When you feel good, you’ll look good. So, if you’re nervous about wearing eye-catching prints, remember that the only thing that can truly “overdress” you is self-doubt.
Many of us save our most striking looks for special occasions, thinking that certain outfits are “too much” for everyday wear. But who says you have to wait for a special occasion to shine?
So, the next time you’re staring at that outfit in the mirror/closet, wondering if it’s “too much,” remember this: you are never too much. You are exactly enough. And when you embrace your unique style, the world will see you for the powerful, vibrant woman you are.
You are confident. You are beautiful. And it’s time to let the world see it.
Check out our Collection to find what makes you feel truly yourself.