I have had an active online life for as long as I can remember. Throughout those years I have been known as different names depending on the stage in my life and finally I settled on using my real first and last name in college.

I sought to change my name to something a little catchier; a little more me. My last name itself is a smorgasbord of negative history for me and I refuse to represent it.  During this renaming, I had also been going through a fashion obsession phase that seemed to only intensify as each issue of Vogue hit the shelves.

Suddenly a word so crisp, simple and refined called forth to me and I knew that it was meant to be a part of me: Couture.

From that moment forth the internet came to know me as Crysti Couture. So vehemently have I marketed my custom namesake that it is believed to be my real birth name. As the years have passed, I have fully realized that “Couture” is not simply a fashion reference; it is a lifestyle and a philosophy.

By definition, couture is a French word, which means ‘to sew’ and in modern times, true haute couture is something only the wealthy can afford as the garment is completely custom made for the client.

‘Couture’ as a philosophy is similar in concept: you are one of a kind couture, why act as if you are an off-the-rack item? Embrace the things that make you unique and flaunt them. Distinguish yourself from the norm.

Beyond what I have shared here on my Blog and on Twitter  it would surprise many people to know that I was very poor growing up , then suddenly was exposed to a wealthy family, that I was an expert hitch hiker, that I have a wicked sense of humor, that I am addicted to hoarding memories. These things, among a plethora of many others make me who I am. These obstacles and stages in my journey have contributed to the end result, a type of ‘Couture’ that is mine and mine alone.

Now a mini manifesto of sorts to get you thinking and moving towards a ‘Couture’ attitude:

• You are a creature of wonder and amazement. Own it, be it and represent it.
• You are unlike anyone else. Although the desire to be a part of a group is inherent in human nature, resist the urge to ‘blend’ in.
• Your flaws are a part of you as much as your strong points. If you can’t fix your flaws, embrace them.
• Personality is everything. Western civilization is very materialistic, but understand that ‘things’ are NOT everything.
• Humor makes the world go round. Being able to laugh at your misgivings will ease the pain and help you move forward.
• Be daring, dangerous and adventurous. Life only lasts as long as you can remember it…make your story a memorable one.
• I can’t stress the importance of ‘Fake it till you make it.’ On a personal level, this resounds with me; I’m a girl with naturally low self esteem, but if you present yourself with enough panache, eventually you’ll feel pretty great about yourself too!
• Spirituality is important. Whatever belief you follow make sure it resonates and meshes with your soul. Life nowadays is so very hectic to the point where it affects our minds and bodies, so it’s important to pay attention to and soothe your spirit.
• Love! Sometimes I feel so much love toward friends, loves, my son, my beliefs that I feel like my heart could burst!  Like I mentioned in this popular post of mine, I have a lot of love to give. 

That’s all for now… I hope you can take something useful from this post and let a little ‘Couture’ energy into your life!