Threads Of The Past
Catalina Prieto
Peering through my wardrobe and rummaging through my cabinets, I note clothes that once felt like a second skin- akin to a version of myself I once identified as that don’t feel as though they pertain to me anymore. Fabrics, colors, and patterns that once struck a chord with me now lie dull and stagnant, recollecting dust on my closet shelves. Though these garments continue to physically fit on my body, it almost feels like I’m wearing the remnants of a person that no longer exists- myself.
Faith Connexion Fall 2018 | Image Credit: Vogue
In an ever-changing state, a moment comes in which we too must let go of clothing that no longer feels true to the way we’d like to represent ourselves. It’s almost bittersweet, to confront the feeling that pieces you once wore with enthusiasm and confidence– those you admired in the mirror before a night out– no longer exude that same spark or reflect your personal message. Letting go of these pieces doesn’t mean we are rejecting the past or not embracing who we’ve molded into- it simply evolved beyond a certain phase of our life, ready for new styles that echo or correspond with our current being. This realization brings a certain freedom as we begin to shed away and surrender past identities thus making a space to welcome new ones.
The articles of clothing, with their individual cuts, patterns, and embellishments you used to favor– now sit in your wardrobe as relics of chapters you’ve discarded. These aren't just clothes you no longer want to wear; they're also markers of previous periods, personality traits, and beliefs. Within each piece lives sustained memories and expressions only true to us at a moment when it felt right. It’s almost surreal to acknowledge that something we carefully hand-picked and cherished doesn’t echo our present selves. Though, jumbled with this feeling of unfamiliarity comes a sense of unshackling and relief.
Image Credit: Pinterest
While that time shaped you, it does not define or resonate with the character you currently inhabit, allowing old identities once worn like armor to be gently cast aside. This is a quiet recognition of the people we used to be and the expressions we once felt resonated, but the acknowledgment it’s time to embrace change with willingness and enthusiasm.
Now, we can choose to wear what feels more akin to ourselves, creating new memories and associations with each new garment. And perhaps one day, we will once again look back-- feeling that similar sentimentality and fondness for pieces and old expressions we discarded, serving as a testament to our ongoing transformation.
Strike Out,
Catalina Prieto
Editor: Carla Mendez
Catalina Prieto is an undergraduate psychology student at Florida International University and the author of her debut poetry book, "Transcend," published by Indie Earth Books. Writing on profound and contemplative subjects like human connection, the universe, nature, mental health, and recollections from her day-to-day observations is Catalina's passion. Catalina writes with a significant emphasis on organization and clarity, articulating her ideas in a way that strikes a balance between depth of analysis and creative insight. When Catalina isn't writing, she enjoys taking pictures, playing with watercolors, going to the gym to maintain her physical well-being, and meditating. She also has an intense fascination in movies, art, and the value of vintage clothing.
