Can Fashion FIX Mental Health?

[@CaribCanGirl]

Wow- I almost passed over your video because, as at 63, I refuse to get locked into these 50/60+ videos because I’m youthful and love style that brings me joy and is another way of expressing myself creatively! Thank you for what you share-so real!!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I’m so glad we found each other!

[@TerriM416]

A few years ago, I had a patient, a French woman in her 90s who always took care of her appearance. She wore a camel tailored skirt, crisp white button-down, black loafers, red lipstick, and her long silver hair in a bun. And a beautiful smile. Always a smile. She lived with several health challenges, but she understood that her appearance was important to her outlook on life

[@midlifeposhcloset]

OH how I love hearing this…something to aspire to! When my grandfather was in his last days, he asked my grandmother to dress nice and do her makeup everyday. That stuck with me.

[@srking1183]

Being retired I watch videos rather than TV. So many topics to pick from. This has been the most meaningful fashion video I have watched this year. Ontario Canada. Thank you

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Oh my goodness - thank you so much!

[@suzannegabrielle]

So true. When people "give up" on looking nice, it's a slippery slope to not only good mental health, but also physical health. As a retired professional, I see it with men as well as women. Flip flops and baggy clothes may be "comfortable" but you can't exercise/walk far in flip flops and you can easily overeat in clothes that are too loose.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

YES! I feel like it starts when the midlife weight gain hits. Many women don't know how to deal with it so they just give up on themselves. You make excellent points!

[@StylewithSerena]

I agree with this 100%

[@palominosue5670]

I totally agree with you. When times are hard it gives you something else to focus on and lift you up. Xxx

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Amen! I experienced the power of fashion in during the pandemic & how it could brighten my day. And I want my mindset to shift to selecting my daily outfit based upon how I *want* to feel. Glad you agree!

[@StylewithSerena]

I whole-heartedly agree! It makes such a difference. My grandmother was almost 92 when she died, and she always took pride in her appearance, got dressed every day including jewelry and never missed her weekly hair appointment. 😊 I guess my love of style and that attitude started with her and my mother.

[@suzannegabrielle]

My grandmother was the same and lived until 93. The other thing she did which I think helps as well is that she never ate in front of the tv. even though she lived alone for many years. She actual still put on a tablecloth or nice placemat and set the table for her meals. It comes down to maintain standards on so many levels.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Such a great example - I want to be like your grandmother!

[@godsbuckets]

I love the concept of choosing the outfit based on how we “want” to feel.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

YES! I want to lean into this concept more: fashion choices based on feeling good, rather than how we *perceive* we look.

[@kimcolangelo180]

How can anyone deny this! A beautiful fresh haircut, new lipstick, or a fabulous outfit that we feel comfortable and confident in makes us feel like a $1,000,000 bucks even though we may only have $10 in our wallet. It doesn’t have to be designer, it can just as easily be a thrift find that does it for us. It doesn’t matter, it works. How thoughtful you are to talk about this.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Amen to ALL of this! I started this account with thrifted items that looked identical to items sold new in the stores...and no one was the wiser back then.

[@charlottetrujillo2207]

I remember every single piece of clothing I’ve ever had, and how each piece made me feel. Fashion has been one of the best things about my life!

[@carlsenlifeafter60carlsen11]

I always tell my husband my passion for fashion is what keeps me from being depressed. I love to put outfits together. I’m always coming out giving him a fashion show even though I don’t go out much. I’m retired at 69. I still love to dress beautifully.

[@SheilaE1953]

My dear mom always dressed up when she was out and about and took pride in her appearance. She always said that clothes didn’t have to be expensive to look nice but they always had to be clean and pressed. She was my biggest cheerleader when it came to how I dressed. She always wanted to know what store an item was bought at and she always commented about how she liked it too. We both had the same taste in clothes and I sure do miss hearing her kind comments about my outfits❣️

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Aww this is so sweet!

[@testing1-2three]

Yes, ma’am it can absolutely help with mental health. I can point to a before and after “fashion”. In my case it was paying attention to details, fabrics and what is flattering on my body. World of difference.

[@christineshields1714]

I wholeheartedly agree with you. When I put in a bit of effort doing my hair, putting on a bit of makeup and lipstick, and dressing nicely I always feel much better. I tell people all the time to dress for the kind of day you'd like to have.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I love hearing this! You’re absolutely right!

[@mookey2353]

My father said that when you meet a person for the first time that person will have already drawn a conclusion wi the first 3 seconds of meeting you that is why how we dress and present ourselves is so important. Even the way we stand and our body language. We were never ever allowed to use profanity. My father never went to College but you would have never known that by meeting him! He was a class act as was my mother !!!!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I love hearing this!

[@CocoB22]

Excellent advice. And the most important people to see us well dressed are those in our home. ❤ taking care of our clothes can bring joy too. ❤

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Excellent point! Thank you for sharing this!

[@christinaodonnell5437]

It was so nice to see your face and expressions while you were talking to us .. Thank you

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I felt like I was missing some sort of connection with our group here and someone suggested that I should talk straight to the camera. Was that the missing element?

[@sharonworyn1911]

I love fashion but over the past year I had three surgeries on my foot. I was in a cast for weeks at a time, then a boot and walking was extremely difficult. I still wore makeup, styled my hair, and dressed in an attractive outfit each day because it made me feel good. It kept me hopeful and encouraged. I also believe that my good attitude made my recovery easier and the healing was faster. I have always believed that our appearance affects us first and foremost.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

This is so inspiring - it would have been so easy to pitch in the towel under these circumstances. Saluting you today!

[@margaretalmodovar8401]

You are absolutely correct! Clothing has an impact on our self-esteem, makes us who we are. I recall when I worked as a bank auditor in NY and I put on that "power suit", it made me feel very professional. Now as a retiree, I make sure I dress casual in good taste even if I am just home. I like going by a mirror and see myself put together. Makes me feel GOOD! 😊

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I love hearing this!!!

[@mariannewilson753]

Love this. I'm a mental health professional (LCSW) and agree with all of this. I love that you addressed this. From St Louis MO.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Thank you for commenting on this as a professional! Mental wellness is something dear to me and I genuinely believe that fashion can make a difference.

[@G2MN]

Valerie: As one who has suffered from acute depression for years I cannot emphasize enough how important this issue is. When someone in your family/friend group starts to pay less attention to their outward appearance, it can be a major red flag. I know for me personally, my MD could always tell where I was at simply by walking into the examination room and taking a good look at me. When I was at my darkest point it showed in my person. Thank you for talking about this. It isn't just fashion. It can be the signs of true illness when people fade into the background. Bless you.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I come from a family where mental illness is pervasive so I have seen this as well. I am sending you big hugs and so much love right now.

[@JaniceHofmann-Caceres]

Ive always told my partner that the day i give up caring about my appearance is the day to start worrying about my mental state. That said, it can be a slippery slope from care in appearance to obsession and spending money on trends. Balance.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

There are comments in this thread from therapists saying that a decline in personal grooming is one of the first signals of a mental health issue. But I understand what you are saying on the flip side: I have watched a family member spend recklessly during a mental health episode.

[@yolrambhavesarach2883]

I want the local people know that I pay respect the place I visit.That's why I 've to ask what should I wear.

[@JP-nl4dp]

I very much agree with your message. Doing my makeup, hair and a nice outfit just makes me feel good when starting my day. When I’m going into intense negotiations in my job, a power outfit boosts confidence. I love just standing in my closet working out outfits.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Isn’t it amazing how an outfit can boost confidence?!

[@wandajarabo1793]

Make up and well cared for hair is also vital for mental wellbeing. Not forgetting an appropriate perfume. Excellent video, calm and unrushed with good examples.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Excellent EXCELLENT points - grooming cannot be overlooked here!

[@Animegorly]

It’s very simple to be but I have learned this for a long time to be ok to dress the elegant way I like- I just love to be pretty every single day while taking care of day to day life as a wife and a mom of 4. Im grateful to express the way that’s truly me. I don’t need to explain or apologize for my choice of outfits among the casual styles we see so prevalent. People around are so used to how I look every time they see me.

[@lose999]

Since I found your channel, I've embraced not tucking in my top. I thrift most of my clothes as a retired teacher. My professional clothes didn't suit my new life... I do like prints. They make me happy; I feel more put together if I wear a little make up even if I'm not going snywhere. I love fashion - that's how I found you.🤗

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I’m so glad we found each other!

[@teresanash-mcneil-hf1fo]

I suffer with both PTSD and Bipolar and use retail therapy when I have deep depression. Sadly I have begun hoarding and now have a house full of designer clothes, shoes, boots, handbags, perfumes and makeup.

[@j.c.4120]

It can be hard to balance when there are mental health issues. My sister was bipolar. She shopped for the high. Then when she came down, she did not care about her purchases. They would sit where they were. It was sad to watch her cycling. She had nice clothing and accessories. But did not wear them. Then she would get angry if I tried to help her clean it up.

[@teresanash-mcneil-hf1fo]

@@j.c.4120 I totally relate, I’m just like that.

[@j.c.4120]

@@teresanash-mcneil-hf1fo I do understand. She would not stay on her meds. I definitely saw the illness get worse. Hugs to you, along with positive thoughts and prayers. Each day is a new day to celebrate and be good to yourself.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I have a family member that does this, so know that you are not alone. I hope that you are seeking help when you need it. Sending you big hugs!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I have a family member that does this as well. Know that you are not alone. Get help when you need it. Sending big hugs to you!

[@juleannedawson9287]

Yes, completely agree with this philosophy! Here is Utah it can be really casual! So doing an upscale casual can really give a pick me up! ❤

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I love hearing this! Thank you for watching and wishing you a lovely Sunday!

[@ccmanning326]

Hello, I live in Las Cruces, New Mexico, which is near El Paso, Texas. It is still very warm here but I discovered you 2 1/2 weeks ago and have already bought some beautiful pieces of clothing upon your recommendation. Often times, I would get up to go to work and feel pain, or perhaps I didn’t sleep well enough. Anyway, if I woke up and I felt this way, I purposefully dressed up even more so to go to work. The very idea of putting on my best outfits made me forget about my pain. People would complement me on those days and it would make me smile, so in time, I forgot about the pain, even though it was still there. Thank you for sharing your philosophy. I will wholeheartedly embrace it. 🙏

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I love that you make a point of dressing up even when you're not feeling your best. Well done!

[@vivianarendt7989]

You are 100% on target with this video. I started really paying attention to my appearance about a year ago when I had lost 28 lbs. Changing my wardrobe has totally changed the way I see myself. Keep up the great work… so love your classy style!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

HAT’S OFF TO YOU for the weight loss…I have also lost 28 pounds!

[@elainehearod7013]

Absolutely

[@jog8646]

Thanks Valerie, I often feel guilty for indulging in the "shallowness" of fashion, even though it has always been an artistic expression for me (I am a textile freak). I was complimented on my outfit the other day: white denim skirt - half price from Target $20; thrifted navy and white striped T-shirt $2; black croc embossed belt - new $20; red pointed flat slingbacks - $12 Kmart; thrifted red Leona Edmiston bucket bag $30. No, we don't have to spend a lot of money to look great ❤

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I love the sound of this outfit!

[@ronda929]

I remember when Gwinnett Place Mall opened! I grew up on the South side in Clayton County, so Southlake was my mall. (I graduated high school in 1986.) My cousins lived in Lilburn so once I was old enough to drive, I went to Gwinnett Place as often as I could. I love your content and channel!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

So you totally know what I'm talking about when I say it was THE PLACE TO GO back then!

[@lightdancervaughn1447]

I love this topic, Valarie! I think it goes deeper, also influencing our energy bodies. To me, style is the Art of self expression. I enjoyed the closeup of your smile today. From Michigan 🎶

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Thank you so much for this beautiful comment - this is truly an art form!

[@janettefabro]

Absolutely 💯 agree with everything you covered/talked about in this video. I’m recently retired… but still love fashion and deciding what I’m wearing for the day. I also, during the pandemic would dress up in something nice….. just made me feel better… I know my husband appreciates my effort and continues to thank me for not sliding into the “dark zone” … of sweats and athleisure wear as my day to day uniform. Thank you for your wonderful videos from Alberta Canada ..🍁

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I totally love hearing this!!!

[@godsbuckets]

I love this premise and all the comments!

[@lindacretella8970]

Thank you Valarie for this uplifting video on fashion and mood. I always believed when you look good you feel good. And because i want to feel good about how i look i always put on something that will make me feel that way even when i am staying home....have a good evening from Glastonbury Ct. ♥️

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Thank you for watching and sending warm wishes from Michigan!

[@jeaninecarthey4278]

Thank you for your fashion guidance! I am 72, and fashion choices seem even more challenging- your posts help! This is off topic, but do you have ideas for cruise fashion? It will be to the Bahamas and I welcome any suggestions- Thank you!

[@bigsister8590]

Yes - love this totally uplifting perspective!!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

HOORAY! I love this - look good to feel good!

[@palomahealing5073]

I just like to dress precisely for every occasion..if I can't for whatever reason, that affects my Mental state!🙁 And it's so amazing depending on how you dress, can gain you respect & admiration.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Yes yes and MORE YES! What is you go-to outfit when you need a mood boost?

[@stanleyjaneway7834]

Thank you. I totally agree with you. Brenda from east TN

[@ruthmalcolm3028]

This is so thought provoking, thank you.

[@KimFales]

So true!❤ I always feel great when I'm wearing a great outfit! Loved hearing your point of view on this topic!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I LOVE this! Look good to feel good!

[@Estefana125]

What a wonderful and thoughtful post, delivered in your beautiful voice. Thank you! Waves hello from Brooklyn NY. Look 5, that camel jacket is divine! Look 6 with trench, NYC standard. Hy the way, I'm a forever Duran Duran, person! Thanks again.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

From one fellow Duranie to another, thank you for watching today and for your kind words...Autumn Greetings from Northern Michigan!

[@reneeglickman9524]

I have always thought fashion and dressing well is a sign of self-respect.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Amen sis!

[@evaclaudialeiner1255]

Thank you and a good Oktober and November!🎉

[@alittlebitlaura]

Loved this. And I was a fellow Duran Duran obsessed teenager in the 80s - in MA. ❤

[@midlifeposhcloset]

OOOOH I love hearing this - so you totally know what I mean by the buttons on the Members Only jacket!

[@StarGazer918]

Totally agree! Thank you for making a video like this.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I hope this helps - mental health is something dear to me and I genuinely believe that fashion can help improve mental health and well being.

[@yolrambhavesarach2883]

I get the answer from this ep. Thank you very much.Love all the outfit !

[@bethajean82]

Thank you!

[@2021-j2d]

So very true, thank you, Valerie.

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Glad you agree - wishing you a lovely Autumn Sunday!

[@G2MN]

So Important!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I agree. Someone commented that it is a major red flag for depression and/or other forms of mental illness when someone stops taking care of their appearance. I wish I had mentioned that in the video.

[@debbybeer5197]

Absolutely agree!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

YAAAY! I love hearing this - look good to feel good!

[@lynettetehuia5021]

Thank you

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Thank you for watching!

[@rosemarycrabtree5892]

Really enjoyed the message and the clothes.😊😊😊

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Thank you - wishing you a lovely Autumn Sunday!

[@anitaclemens2609]

Thank you. I am going to New York for three days on November 8th. I haven't been to NY in a long time I am not sure what to wear. I will be going to three Broadway shows. Do people still dress up? Do I wear a dress or something business casual? During the day we will be sightseeing as my husband has never been there. Can you suggest a travel capsule for us?

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I will be going to Boston about the same time. Let me see what I come up with!

[@YvetteSzparaga]

Love watching your videos❤ watching from Kentucky 🤗

[@janetdaniel9661]

Brilliant video thank you

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Glad you enjoyed it - thank you for watching!

[@courtneyannbougie1219]

Agree completely!!! ❤

[@midlifeposhcloset]

HOORAY! I love hearing this. Look good to feel good!

[@JoannEPage]

Hi 👋 How did you combat your hair loss????? Joann

[@midlifeposhcloset]

How I BEAT Midlife Hair Loss kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJ6zon5vhMRroJI

[@megansjoquist459]

Couldn't agree with you more Valarie😊 Your selection of outfit examples were wonderful. Love from Sydney, Australia💕

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Yay! Thank you!

[@sheahill3340]

Gwinnett Place Mall 😃 I have been there in the 80’s too! Are you from Georgia?

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Yes! I am originally from Lilburn. I remember being at Gwinnett Place the weekend it opened and thinking it was just like Oz!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Where are you from?

[@sheahill3340]

@@midlifeposhcloset I grew up in rural northwest GA. So going to that mall was “big city” shopping! And I had a pink Members Only . Still know all the lyrics to Rio and Hungry Like A Wolf 😁

[@sheristrybos5831]

All so true!!😊

[@midlifeposhcloset]

YAAY! I'm glad that you agree - look good to feel good!

[@yolrambhavesarach2883]

Ooh..I love it 🎉❤

[@jennv1018]

Hi! Love the button up cardigan what size did you get it in ??🙏🏻💗

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I am wearing several button up cardigan so I’m not sure which one you are referring to. Some are linked directing below the video but you can find them all here: liketk.it/4TTa4

[@trinarenae8625]

❤ this episode!!!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

HOORAY and thank you! ☕️🫶🏼

[@EmilyG0302]

Love this ❤

[@Spenserifically]

Aww really nice and inspiring video ty❤

[@midlifeposhcloset]

Hope this helps - thank you for watching!

[@yolrambhavesarach2883]

Agree 🎉❤

[@jenniferthomas5315]

Love this! ❤❤

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I experienced the power of fashion in during the pandemic & how it could brighten my day. And I want my mindset to shift to selecting my daily outfit based upon how I *want* to feel. Glad you agree!

[@kaystinebrink1220]

Do you own all of the clothes you model or are many items returned once you film them?

[@midlifeposhcloset]

I have to buy everything - I think that is a common misconception that creators are "gifted" these items from retailers but we are not. (If we are gifted an item, we must disclose that in the video.). Most retailers track returns these days and won't allow you to return items if you frequently do so, so I am very selective about that.

[@Keepitcurious1685]

❤

[@sandieneitzel254]

I used to dress very nice and it made me feel good about myself. Now, a retired widow at age 66 and living on a fixed income I’m not able to afford nice clothes. It can be very depressing. I’m envious of women like you who can afford to buy nice things. I think I look good for my age. I just wish I could afford to buy new clothes and accessories. Maybe it’s better for me not to watch these videos.😢

[@StylewithSerena]

You don't have to spend a lot of money. You can find beautiful, barely worn name brand items at consignment & 2nd hand stores. And you can watch for end of season clearance sales. If you buy classic pieces they will be "in style" for years and you won't have to buy new all the time!

[@midlifeposhcloset]

You don’t need to buy ANYTHING NEW. I will talk more about this tomorrow. PS: I started this account with items I bought at the thrift store…that looked exactly like what the retailers were selling brand new. *wink* Big hugs to you.