The power of costuming is a amazing experience! The Tribal components are rich in detail, textures, colors and layering! Being able to come up with different combinations and looks is a very powerful thing.

This past weekend, I had a photo shoot and I had forgotten how much fun it is! I had most of the day to dive deep into my chunky jewelry as I lay it all out on the bed. Carefully, choosing each piece that has come from all over my travels and holds special meaning! There is just something about it that excites me and reminds me of the power I have inside. It makes me feel good deep in my core as I pick each piece! It is a ritual on its own. It is a self care for me as well feeling good inside allowing my true Goddess to come alive and shine!

Skirts, Choli’s, Pantaloons OH MY! This is where color and layering comes in! Big fluffy 25 yard skirts, using different colors is endless! As I carefully choose each piece, I have a idea in mind of my final look. Sometimes I choose the brighter colors and other times dark and earthy! It is so fun and I love creating getting a different look each time. I stare at all the pieces I have chosen placed on my bed and I am in awe of all the beauty!

The power of transformation! Getting ready is such a powerful thing and I slowly take my time creating my look. This is the time I can spend thinking about nothing else but the final outcome. It is very healing and calming for me as I see the transformation unfold! Coming out of my cocoon and transforming into something powerful and beautiful! First is the makeup! My face is a plain canvas and I am the artist painting carefully! Once complete the hair is next as I adorn with beautiful handmade flowers made by me or my tribal sisters and each one has a special memory. I love this part adding metal trinkets as I see the Tribal Goddess start to emerge! The look is almost complete! On to the costuming! I carefully take each piece in my hands and slowly get dressed! Here is where the power of transformation starts taking place and will soon be complete! All the layering, color and rich textiles. As I finish I turn looking into the mirror of the creation I created! The creation of me! Standing in my glory and my power! It is truly such a beautiful thing that everyone must experience! As women, it is important that we feel good and stand in our own power!

How do you stand in your own power? Each day you can do this as you get ready for the day!

Photo by Night Raven Photography, Chillicothe Ohio