Hi Kayfly,
I am a male, however, reading your post, it is apparent to me I have been experiencing anxiety around clothing too.
I think when we are in midst of severe depression or identity disturbance we sort of become "disenfranchised". We essentially return to
our most simple authentic self. When we feel this way- most clothes look ridiculous.
Clothes- at times, cause me to panic too. Nothing worse then feeling depressed, while trying to pull off some fashionable outfit. It creates far too much anxiety.
Our confidence, generally has to align with whatever it is we are wearing at a given time.
If we are in the middle of a particularly difficult patch, it is more likely that clothes that are attractive, fashionable or draw attention are going to freak you out.
My solution, as a man of 36, when I am in very trying times like I stick with as simple clothing as I can. Clean, classic, but simple. So you are not going to get
caught up in confusion about identity, or who you are, or what you are trying to be, or how others are going to see you, or feeling like your fashion is a lie, that does
not reflect upon the truth of your lived experience- all the other anxiety provoking rubbish that our thoughts can conjure up. I do not know if you are fortunate enough to be working, but career or work identity helps too.
I find it bet to try not to draw attention to myself.
When you are feeling fragile, exposed, or low- then think utilitarian- clothes for function. When your mood lifts, or you feel confident in yourself- branch back out into
fashion etc.
Fashion is a age thing too. At a certain age- 35+ its almost a case of having to ignore it altogether.
I am a male, however, reading your post, it is apparent to me I have been experiencing anxiety around clothing too.
I think when we are in midst of severe depression or identity disturbance we sort of become "disenfranchised". We essentially return to
our most simple authentic self. When we feel this way- most clothes look ridiculous.
Clothes- at times, cause me to panic too. Nothing worse then feeling depressed, while trying to pull off some fashionable outfit. It creates far too much anxiety.
Our confidence, generally has to align with whatever it is we are wearing at a given time.
If we are in the middle of a particularly difficult patch, it is more likely that clothes that are attractive, fashionable or draw attention are going to freak you out.
My solution, as a man of 36, when I am in very trying times like I stick with as simple clothing as I can. Clean, classic, but simple. So you are not going to get
caught up in confusion about identity, or who you are, or what you are trying to be, or how others are going to see you, or feeling like your fashion is a lie, that does
not reflect upon the truth of your lived experience- all the other anxiety provoking rubbish that our thoughts can conjure up. I do not know if you are fortunate enough to be working, but career or work identity helps too.
I find it bet to try not to draw attention to myself.
When you are feeling fragile, exposed, or low- then think utilitarian- clothes for function. When your mood lifts, or you feel confident in yourself- branch back out into
fashion etc.
Fashion is a age thing too. At a certain age- 35+ its almost a case of having to ignore it altogether.