STYLE
words by WHITNEY LYNNE DUDEN
photography by LILY BRUNDIN
ALL of thegoods Follow Whitney Lynne on INSTAGRAM: @whitney_lynne
yourself. People naturally respond to positivity versus negativity. I am more drawn to a smiling well-dressed stranger than a gorgeous grump, immaculately dressed. Why? Because smiling shows me she’s approachable, confident and happy. Now, let’s imagine these two scenarios before you go home to get ready for a day of shopping with girlfriends.
Look good, feel good. I actually believe that in reverse. In the fashion industry there is such a stigma about superficial beauty, and we all seem to be placed into that bucket. For all humanity, beauty should begin on the inside, which then carries over into superficial aspects of life.
I know exactly what you’re thinking: she is so cliché. However, I know I feel better about myself when I buy a random stranger coffee at Starbucks, or have a great conversation with a likeminded woman in passing. Don’t get me wrong, I feel even better when I love the outfit I’m wearing when I’m buying the coffee, or having that conversation. It’s just important to recognize that the daily mundane things do have an impact. I’ll be the first to admit when I’m in a “feel bad” mindset, if you will, I have zero interest in buying a stranger coffee, let alone taking the time to buy myself a coffee. But if I’m feeling good buying that stranger coffee, I can guarantee you that I have just made both of our days more pleasant. These are feel-good things, causing you to be in a more pleasant mood, which in turn help you to feel better about
Close your eyes and imagine you woke up sleepy and you just can’t shake it, so you head to Starbucks. On your way inside a stranger rushes past you nearly spilling coffee on your shirt. The barista taking orders is extremely short-fused with the gentleman in front of you, who then makes you feel rushed to order quickly. Taking your first sip you glance up and find yourself staring at Jennifer Aniston’s twin, who weirdly glances back and asks what you want. You respond “nothing” while looking away, quickly walking out the door, and heading home. Now, close your eyes and envision your shopping trip. What clothing choices would you make? Now … clear your mind, and let’s start over. Close your eyes, imagining you woke up early and decide to reward yourself with Starbucks. You jump in your car, blast your favorite Michael Jackson song, and park. You walk in with a smile on your face, buying coffee for the gentleman in front of you, not