Fashion Fits Everyone. Volume 53.
"Within the last five months I became a stay-at-home mom and my style has changed significantly. Before that, I was working or in school, so every day I was putting on makeup, doing my hair, and getting dressed up (dressed to impress!). Now, five out of seven days of the week I'm at home in pajamas all day, with no makeup, and hair in a ponytail. I'm a simple girl, not a fashion guru. The great thing about this is that I don't think about myself and my style much on those days, so when the other couple days come along and it's time to get dressed up, it makes me feel really beautiful and special. I love watching my face transform as I define my features with makeup. Remembering what my body looks like in high heels, skinny jeans and a flattering top brings a smile to my face.
My journey to self-love really took deep root in the last two years after reading a fantastic book. Since then, my self-esteem has been sky high and I love who I am and how I look, including my flaws. I have weird feet, pale skin, fine hair, and my ears stick out- but I don't so much care. It's me, and when I pick out a cute trendy outfit and get dressed up, I feel like a million bucks. I guess I feel entitled to feeling good about myself because I spent so many years feeling insecure about my looks and weight. Now that the insecurity is gone, I have no problem feeling really good about how I look on any given day. I think confidence is an accessory, and I hope it's one I always carry with me.
I consider myself a girl that understands fashion trends and usually I like them or at least appreciate them, but I don't always have the chance to wear the trends. My style is very simple. If that couldn't be more clear in the picture, let me explain. Too much attention makes me feel uncomfortable and more insecure, so I wear very understated makeup (primer, concealer, eyeliner, mascara- and that's it). When I wear a lot of makeup, I don't feel more beautiful, I feel more hidden. Not everyone feels that way, and I actually love the way a lot of makeup looks, but I have never been able to pull it off and still feel like Merilee (I still watch dozens of youtube tutorials, though. They're so much fun!). It's the same with my clothing. Neutrals, jeans, boots, and I'm in my comfort zone. When I wear something too trendy, big, colorful, or obvious, I feel like I'm wearing a sign that says "Look at me! Look at me!" and I don't feel like myself! I love the way those things look, but it just isn't my personality I guess. To those girls who do dress that way, I say keep doing your thing because you brighten up the world! I pull of my simple style by choosing pieces that are a good brand and high quality. I prefer real leather, real wool, etc. I always say "quality over quantity." That's me when it comes to my closet. The jewelry I wear consists of my wedding ring, small dainty necklaces, and some matching earrings- usually stud earrings. I struggle to pull off anything else! Dressing simple makes me feel like I'm cute, understated, and natural. I know I'll always be this way.
If I were to give someone advice on wardrobe and dressing, I would suggest quality over quantity. It's my motto and I think it adds sophistication and simplicity to a wardrobe. Whatever you do, be you! Everyone deserves to love the way they look, love the clothes that show off who they are, and love the body that wears them. Happy dressing!"
- Merilee from Derek and Merilee
Interested in being a part of Fashion Fits Everyone? Email deidreemme@gmail.com with the subject Fashion Fits Everyone and we will get you scheduled.