World Kindness Day - complement another woman on her style

November the 13^th is World Kindness Day.

I could argue that every day could be a kindness day but hey, we have to start somewhere. 

It was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, cool, right? And when I looked it up, I found there’s an actual kindness.org. It popped up at the top of my search bar as an advert. Apparently they have to pay to promote kindness.

According to Wikipedia, the idea behind world kindness day is to “highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness, which binds us.”  Kindness is an important part of “the human condition which bridges the divide of race, religion, politics, gender and zip code.”

Or zips. Or buttons, or anything you use to fasten your clothing. Kindness will always triumph style. I’ve seen very fashionable shoppers be rude to retail staff and it always detracts from their outfit. I’ve seen the same style mavens court the good opinion of designers. Kindness goes both ways, fashion-sister.

Here's my question for today: Have you complimented another woman on how amazing she looks? Every woman is beautiful, and if you are struggling for a complement look deeper – both at them and yourselves.

Is there a tinge of jealousy? Are you worried you’re not being appropriate? That’s a huge topic and one I won’t ad-dress here. If you are a woman or identify as one, and you feel you are in a safe environment, complement another woman with genuine appreciation and be specific.  

“That blue looks amazing on you, it really brings out your eyes.”
“I love how you added pearls, it really adds another dimension to that outfit, it was a great idea.”

“When you showed up for the board meeting, your red suit really had an impact and it helped us carry our point across – I’m so glad you chose it.”

“Where did you get your boots? I’ve been looking for ones like those, they’re awesome.”

Yes, asking where someone got their clothing makes them feel good. Be truthful though, if you would never wear the boots, don’t waste their time and also, you might get a pair as a present – awkward much?

Are you kind to yourself when you look in the mirror?

“I love how orange warms my skin.”

“Wow! Those workouts are paying off, my arms look so strong in my tee shirt.”

“I love how adding those bracelets draws attention to my hands.”

“I’m so proud of me for trying something new!”

Be kind to your clothes as well.

Follow manufacturers instructions. Don’t throw them on the floor. Remove the dog hair (a constant in my life). Mend, clean, cherish. Use decent hangars. Buy mothballs (yes, they smell disgusting, that’s the point.)

Be kind – we could always use more.

Aroha, Erin