We are living in unprecedented times. The 2020 chapter in future history books may need its own volume. COVID-19 forced many to stay home and work remotely, limiting the usual forms of self-expression like fashion and style. Many events have been postponed. Then there’s the current social unrest after the death of George Floyd. 2020 is not the time to sit back and relax. There is powerful change underfoot, and you’re either part of the change or part of the problem.

You may recognize that who you were just three months ago is a different person than now. After so much time at home in introspection, you may be jonesing to go forth in the world and express the new you. See the latter half of the year as a time of transformation — you entered your home as a caterpillar sheltering in its cocoon. Now it’s time for the butterfly to emerge. Here are some ideas on how to move forward as the new and improved you.

Change Your Look to Reflect a More Authentic You

The most dramatic change we may take away from 2020 is the reality that holding back our thoughts and feelings can create injustice in the world. Hiding who you are is a great disservice to yourself and others around you. How does fashion and style tie into social justice? Your style choices can reveal what you stand for and represent.

Be bold — 2020 and beyond are no longer times to be a shrinking wallflower. Some ways you can make changes to your personal style include the following:

• Try a new haircut or facial hair look.
• Change up your makeup routine or add some! Everyone can benefit from bronzer and highlighter after the last few months.
• Add a couple of bold, new statement pieces to your wardrobe.
• Shop and support businesses that align with your values and beliefs.

Sharpen Up Your Work Look

If you work from home or in an office, you’ve probably let yourself go. It’s understandable; the work environment has been tough this year. Whether you choose to work harder or you have no choice because you’re an essential worker, work addiction is real and negatively impacts your quality of life. All that overwork affects your mental health and your relationships with friends and family.

It’s time to step back and reevaluate what’s important in your life and restore the balance. Make changes for the sake of your happiness and your relationships. Self-care and taking the time to present yourself more professionally are good steps to take. Starting today, create boundaries on how much you are willing to work by setting a schedule to free up time for other important pursuits. This is especially important if you work from home.

It’s likely you were more comfortable than you ever imagined, working from home in an old sweatshirt. No more. Give everything you choose to do 100% of the energy and attention it deserves. That means dressing up professionally for work every day. No winging it or hoping to slide by in your robe. Dress like you mean it. It will actually improve your performance and the way you feel about yourself. And when your timer goes off and your workday is over, go do something you love with your favorite people.

Declutter Your Life

There is no better time than now to get rid of the clutter in your life. If you’re in the process of reshaping your personal style, start with your closet. Pull everything out of the closet and do an edit on what you own. Call a few friends over to help and let them be ruthlessly honest. Get rid of clothes that don’t fit. Let’s face it: if you were hoping to fit into those jeans from the last decade one day, your chances are likely less after several months of quarantine eating (not that there’s anything wrong with that!).

Keeping items that no longer contribute to you looking your best no longer have space in your life. Set aside everything you no longer wear or that you should no longer wear. When you’re done, donate the items or have a yard sale to clear the clutter. The best part is, you’ll make space in your closet and earn a little extra cash to splurge on a few items that showcase your new and improved personal style.

What the Rest of 2020 Holds

It’s hard to tell in what direction the rest of 2020 will go. Your thoughts on the future all depend on whether you’re an optimist or a pessimist. One thing’s for sure, however. Nothing and no one may be the same — and that may be a good thing. Expressing yourself in a fearless and authentic way is more important than ever. So is connecting with your peers and loved ones. Don’t fear the change. Embrace and learn from it. And do it stylishly.

Photo by Luca Nardone from Pexels