Friendships are based on similarities: we share the same goals, humor, interests and hobbies with the people we hang out with and like. What we wear expresses our interest, so we typically hang out with people we LOOK like. Our friends typically share the same approach in fashion. If we’re gamers, we wear graphic tees and comfortable jeans. If we’re athletes, then we’re totally wearing athletic clothes all day. But fashion doesn’t just have to reflect our interests, it can be a hobby or a passion on its own. We can make connections with friends by talking about fashion, creating fashion and embracing the attraction of uniquely expressing yourself through what you wear and how you wear it.
An interest in fashion can sometimes bridge cliques. An athlete, hipster, straight A student and K-pop enthusiast could all own and wear the same clothing item or accessory. But they are all going to wear it differently. The fact that they all own the same thing demonstrates that they have a common interest or connection. If someone is wearing something that you like but they aren’t the type of person you normally hang out with, spark up a conversation by complimenting their style. Talk to her about where she shops, what trends she likes right now and allow that initial dialogue to lead to other topics such as what she’s studying in school and or what extracurricular activities she’s involved in. If the conversation continues, you may discover you have more in common, budding a new friendship.
The way you dress can speak to others about your personality and interests. Someone who loves bold patterns and bright colors most likely is outgoing and exuberant. If you want to make friends with an outgoing girl, seeing a little of her personality through her style could give you the confidence to start chatting with her. If you want to develop deep relationships with a more introverted girl then look for someone with a quieter style. A girl wearing soft colors, delicate floral or ruffles and lace probably has a tender personality and approach to life. A girl with vintage flair or tribal vibes either has experience or interest in traveling or studying art, history and other cultures. You may gain new insights and viewpoints on subjects by getting to know her.
Compliments are good icebreakers when talking to someone for the first time. If you like a certain piece that a girl is wearing or want to know where she bought a dress, just ask! Don’t be too shy to tell someone what you’re thinking, because everyone appreciates a genuine compliment. Although the way a girl looks is not what solely makes her beautiful, gaining confidence about what you look like on the outside can help you feel confident on the inside. Compliments can build this confidence in the recipient and the sender of the message.
More often than not, a girl doesn’t feel accepted for her outward appearance. Typically, she doesn’t feel confident in her looks and that makes her disinclined to share what she’s like on the inside. Once you start a girl talking about style and trends that she’s in to, the conversation can lead to other interests such as what she does on the weekend or books she likes to read. Making someone feel accepted about what she looks like, can encourage her to open up and share her inner beauty and passions!
Not every compliment or comment about another girl’s outfit is going to lead to a life long friendship, but it could easily lead to a pleasant conversation positively impacting your day or someone else’s. In this world, we need to be able to connect with other people in a positive manner. We’re privileged to choose how we connect and engage with others as well as those with whom we have deep, significant relationships. Sharing our passions can help make these connections, so don’t be afraid to use fashion as a tool to gain insight on a future friend.
