How an influencer combats ageism through her music festival fashion
Amy Mackelden June 16, 2019
Jil Dever Broadway Coral Pink Lame wrap. Photo @PameBueno
The body positivity movement has steadily been gaining recognition, and women are starting to embrace their individuality like never before. As a person living with a chronic illness, I often feel as though I don’t fit in, especially when it comes to fashion. Busy events like music festivals can seem overwhelming, and summer fashion can feel inaccessible — from a look not being comfortable enough, to an outfit revealing too much. However, that’s about to change.
In a new series, Jil Dever will speak to body- positive pioneers who are changing the game when it comes to dressing. From hints and tips about finding your inner confidence, to dressing for absolutely any occasion, these influencers are unafraid to experiment with style, and they hope that they can convince you to do the same.
Valerie A. Lewis, also known as @visualiseandbloom on Instagram, says that fashion shouldn’t be age specific. As a blogger, life coach, holistic massage therapist, and Reiki practitioner, Lewis tells Jil Dever, “Whether 40, 60, or 82, learn to embrace your older body image and create style rules that are personal to you.” With the hashtag #bloomingagelessly@59, she makes it clear that aging shouldn’t be a barrier in anyone’s life.
The influencer is also a staunch believer in embracing life’s experiences, whether it’s a simple night out or a full-on music festival. She recommends finding, “a shade to suit your skin tone,” even “if you’re not brave enough to wear it from head to toe.”
A color that Lewis is particularly drawn to right now is “Living Coral ”— a peachy, pinky, orange — which just so happens to be Pantone’s shade for Spring/Summer 2019. If you’re looking for a summery shade of your own, Jil Dever’s Lovejoy Neon Pink Velvet with Cheetah Silk Oblong is a great way to add a pop of color to any outfit, and there are several designs to choose from.
When it comes to music festival fashion, Lewis says, “liven up your lilac, black, [and] navy blue, [by] accessorizing it with a bag, a pair of earrings, bracelets, or temporary streaks in your hair.” Basically, accessories are your best friend and can transform any outfit. Consider adding an accent like Jil Dever’s Hawthorne to an otherwise plain look, or investing in some temporary hair dye.
Most of all, Lewis tells Jil Dever, “You’ll never be 20 again. If there are parts of your body you don’t feel comfortable about, learn instead how to enhance the features you feel most confident about.” Basically, regardless of your style, find what makes you feel good — whether it’s a hair makeover or a new accessory—and lean into your own unique look.
Find more from Valerie A. Lewis on her blog.
Photos:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkUJE2Ihybo/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BO7v-WiAIPS/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BJWBl-CDBPj/
STAY TUNED FOR OUR NEXT BLOG ON BODY POSITIVITY ...
Amy Mackelden - Freelance Writer
Amy is the Weekend Editor at HarpersBAZAAR.com, and has written for Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Bustle, Marie Claire, and Hello Giggles. She co-founded Clarissa Explains F*ck All.
CONNECT: Twitter: @AmyMackelden | Instagram: @amymackelden | LinkedIn: @amymackelden