DIVA Zone Magazine - April 2025 Issue | Page 20

CONTINUED- WHAT ’ S IN YOUR CLOSET ?
You may ask , “ Where do I begin ?
1 . Inventory Your Closet Assess your wardrobe with faith and intention . Categorize your clothing based on functionality , how it fits , and how it aligns with your spiritual path . Identify staples , special occasion wear , and items that no longer serve you . Let go of pieces tied to past identities and embrace a wardrobe that reflects God ’ s design for your life .
2 . Identify Your Style and Values Self-reflection is the first step . Someone said , “ Fashion is what you buy ; style is what you do with it .” Consider which styles resonate with you , and what colors and silhouettes make you feel most authentic . Your clothing should align with your values . I used to wear bike shorts and laughed off catcalls like , “ Do you have any fries to go with that shake ?” But going through my transformation , the Holy Spirit revealed these remarks did not honor my true self . Likewise , as you reflect on your wardrobe , the Holy Spirit will guide you in uncovering what needs to change .
3 . Evaluate Emotional and Spiritual Connections Clothing is more than fabric — it reflects identity , beliefs , and emotions . As you explore your wardrobe , reflect on what your clothes evoke . Getting rid of garments tied to negativity is an act of emotional cleansing , making room for pieces that uplift and reflect growth . When adding new clothing items , consider their impact : do they bring joy , and confidence , and align with your values ? Even colors and symbols can deepen this connection .
By taking these steps , you can create a wardrobe that is practical , intentional , and aligned with your faith and values . This journey goes beyond clothing , it is about embracing a lifestyle that reflects both your inner and outer self .
About the Author Dr . Gail Davis , a native of Brooklyn , New York , is an expert in the intersection of fashion and faith . She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Marketing from Baruch College , and a Master of Divinity degree from New York Theological Seminary , where she graduated at the top of her class . She earned her Doctor of Ministry degree in May 2015 from the same institution with a groundbreaking demonstration project , Styled by God : Constructing a Theology of Intangible Clothes , which empowers Black women and teenage girls to dress from the inside out . She is the author of What ’ s in Your Closet ? A Journey of Faith , Fashion , and Spiritual Transformation available on Amazon Kindle . As the owner of The Winning Image , an award-winning graphic design and marketing company , Dr . Davis has helped clients " look good on paper " for over 30 years .
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Davis , Gail . What ’ s in Your Closet ? A Journey of Fait , Fashion , and Spiritual Transformation . Amazon Kindle . 2024 .