THE SELF-STYLED
To explore self-styling as a form of identity, control, and private empowerment rather than external validation.
I dressed for no one tonight.
Not for the streetlamp men,
not for the mouths in ears,
not for the applause stitched,
into the hem of my dress.
Silk called to me,
red like a private flame,
perfume bathing,
honey over wrists.
The room was a runway.
How sweet to be looked at,
by no one.
How rich to bloom,
without permission.
Wore my name,
It felt like diamonds.
Walked through the dark,
already adored.
