Long shirts are in fashion these days. Mirror work is trending at the top, flappy trousers are popular, and baggy sweaters are perfect for this winter. Sounds like a list of current fashion trends. Well, if you guessed that, you’re not wrong—but that’s not what fashion means to me.

Fashion, in my view, is a much broader concept. It’s about how you express your identity, who you are, and how you carry yourself. It’s about the way you choose to represent yourself. Do trends matter to you, or do you focus on representing yourself authentically? For me, my top priority is being true to myself.

Comfort is at the core of my fashion choices. I would never wear a saree to a winter wedding just to fit into a fashion standard and pretend I’m not freezing when I clearly would be. Instead, I’d opt for a warm velvet suit that not only keeps me cozy but also allows me to enjoy the wedding—especially the food, which, let’s face it, is one of the main highlights for me!

That said, comfort doesn’t mean throwing all social norms out the window. It’s not about saying, “I feel comfortable in pajamas, so I’ll wear them to a wedding and not care what people think.” Looking good and presentable according to the event’s context is essential. However, dressing in a way that suits you and boosts your confidence, rather than making you feel awkward or uneasy, is the real essence of fashion for me.

Fashion extends beyond clothing. It’s deeply tied to my culture and language, shaping how I perceive and present myself. These elements influence what I wear and how I carry myself and connect with others.

To me, fashion isn’t just about following trends. It’s about authenticity, confidence, and comfort—being true to yourself while respecting the context and occasion. What does fashion mean to you?