In times like these, it can feel a burden to be a woman. Simultaneously defending your place in this world while being the vertebra to its backbone. One of my heros, Maya Angelou, wrote a poem called “Phenomenal Woman” that is part of the foundation on which my confidence is built. She is part of the reason why I don’t think I’m beautiful because you say so; I know I’m beautiful because I say so.

 

It’s in the arch of my back

I am digging the influx of women-positive items on the market these days. I particularly loved this shirt because of the angularity of a word often used to imply weakness juxtaposed against those big red lips. I think of myself similarly. Hard, demanding, and impatient while being feminine, empathetic and affectionate.

The sun of my smile

Another juxtaposition? Acid wash and a cotton candy collar. Certainly not everyone’s cup of tea. But that is the celebration of being a woman, all of our different flavors.

The ride of my breasts

Red is the color of fire and blood. It is associated with passion, danger, energy and love. People with “red” personalities are leaders, stubborn, competitive and direct. Unlike the color blue, which symbolizes calm and healing, red increases heart rate and raises blood pressure. Have I mentioned that red is my favorite color?

The grace of my style

I don’t always feel as fabulous as I did this day, because part of being human is being affected by your world. But my hard won confidence is never too far, eventually whispering enough sweet nothings to drown out the negative noise. This day, Confidence was straight up shouting “Go Dita, go Dita!” as I swished from block to block. I could hear nothing else.

I’m a woman

Phenomenally

Phenomenal woman,

That’s me

Look in the mirror and repeat her words: Phenomenal woman, that’s me.

Peace Yinz,

Dita

 

LINK LOVE

Shirt: by Calder Blake from Perican Bing (if you don’t know, you need to know)

Jacket: Forever 21 here

Pants: by Just Female from Perican Bing (unavailable)

Shoes: Gucci here, here (and everywhere)

Sunglasses: Tom Ford Samantha here

Earrings: The Limited (old)