Born to Stand Out

Born to Stand Out

- Kristina Clemens

“Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out.”   Romans 12:2

In the book Little Women, the precocious Jo laments to her mother, “I’ll never fit in anywhere!” to which her mother inquires, “Why are you trying so hard to fit in, when you were born to stand out?”

 Summer clothing poses a unique challenge and can be hugely discouraging to the woman whose Biblical ideals clash with her culture. Short skirts and strapless dresses abound, taunting in their easy availability, while the most basic of items, like a blouse with sleeves, seemingly evades the most experienced shopper.

My precious summer lasts a mere seventy days which means the challenge is to look fresh and current while building outfits from my basic year-round wardrobe. I’ve found that focusing on accessories is the simplest and most cost-effective way to get through the warmer days. Some ballet flats in a bold shade, a striped beach bag, or a fun watch or headband in a popular color are all inexpensive and fun ways to build outfits that are on point, reflecting the relaxed nature of summer. Invest in a denim button up shirt (a cooler alternative to the cardigan), which can be worn with any floral or basic colored skirt. You can also wear these shirts unbuttoned and tied in a knot over the prolific amount of strappy summer dresses available in stores this time of year. A maxi skirt in a versatile shade can be paired with multiple tops in various colors to help you look cohesive without sacrificing comfort or style.

As Christ-followers, its true...we don’t fit in. Our clothing will never truly reflect the styles of our culture, because we live by a different set of principles. While we aim to look culturally relevant, we are required to meet that goal while being Biblically obedient.  

We were created to be in the world, but not of it…always in pursuit of a gracious inner beauty that is reflected in our attractive outward appearance.  

So, don’t lament about not fitting in.

You were born to stand out.