While my relationship to clothing is primarily sensory, I understand why others are drawn to style as expression.

For some people, clothing is a language they genuinely enjoy speaking. I don’t think they’re necessarily wrong either.

But for many clothing can offer:

• Identity: Some people genuinely enjoy making themselves more visible through clothing. Their interests, affiliations, or personality become part of the outfit.

• Creativity: For others, getting dressed feels closer to making something. Combining colors, textures, silhouettes, and references can be satisfying in the same way arranging a room or creating art is satisfying.

• Play: Fashion allows people to experiment. Trying a different aesthetic can feel like trying on a different perspective for a while.

• Connection: Clothing can also create a sense of belonging. People often recognize their communities, subcultures, and shared interests through dress long before a conversation begins.

For people wired toward expression, clothing can be a meaningful medium. It’s just not the medium I prefer.

For me, clothing works best when it recedes. For others, it works best when it speaks.

I think both approaches are valid. They’re just different languages.