Just as the seasons ebb and flow, so does fashion. Sometimes a trend or style “feels” better and a trend simply just doesn’t work. Is it really as simple as black and white, yin and yang, yes or no? Consider the philosophy of yin and yang.

The principle of yin and yang is based on the ancient Chinese symbol (seen above) and is the key to understanding how things work. The outer circle represents everything, your entire being-your hair, your shoes, your clothes, and your color, the everything that you are made of. The black and white circles represent the push and pull-interaction between negative (yin) and positive (yang) energies that cause everything to happen.

You may have a personal preference to soft draping fabrics, or perhaps long, feminine hair this is your yang. Conversely, you may not like short boxy jackets, matched suits or heavily patterned fabrics. This is your yin. To achieve harmony and balance in your wardrobe you must have a little of both. Having too much of a good thing may make you feel off balance just as much as too much of a bad thing would or something that doesn’t fit well.

What’s your yin and yang? The push and pull that drives you to buy something? Pay attention and ask yourself before you purchase that next item, you may be surprised. Take a look in your closet to see what “energy” or “movement” is there.  A balance of both will give you a sense of harmony, peace and tranquility to your wardrobe.

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Posted by: Karen Hughes, Founder of Image Assets, an Image Consulting Firm serving the Alpharetta and Metro Atlanta areas. As a seasoned certified image consultant, Karen follows a simple philosophy: educate, empower, and enrich the lives of her clients. Her philosophy is enmeshed throughout her practice and can be observed in her workshops, clinics, and one-on-one consultations. Her energetic and interactive style makes her a sought-after training resource for organizations and individuals alike. Even the most difficult topics seem effortless for Karen as she tackles such challenges as professional etiquette, business dress personal image and body shape.

Posted by Karen Hughes on March 4th, 2009 in Articles, How To, Style, Wardrobe