Caring what other people think of you is a dangerous game. Doing or not doing something because you’re worried of what a stranger or your significant other might say is a slippery slope, because then you start living your life for others.

Selecting your wardrobe, music choices, or social activities because you want to appear a certain way is no way to live. Think about your fear, where does it stem from? What is the worst thing that happens if its realized? A person you’ve never met before, and most likely will never see again, forms a quick judgment about you in their head? So what?! They’re gone, and you’re out doing exactly what you want. It can become trickier when you’re talking about your loved ones, but ultimately if someone you care about (and claims to care about you) can’t accept you as you are, they might not be who you should be spending your time with anyway.

I’ve found a really good way to kickstart your self-esteem and give you the confidence you need to live life the way you want to is to do something weird in public. It was a little weird walking along the street in booty shorts, a bright pink Troll wig, and a tank top that made me look naked from far away, but after a few minutes I leaned into it and became the story that those passing me would tell to their friends later that day. Doing something strange in front of strangers is a huge confidence booster, because you are literally saying “I don’t care what you think, this is what I’m doing!”

My friend, Cristen, got me a custom made Victorian bustle skirt for my birthday this year. She also got herself an elaborate dress from the Rococo period, and a Steampunk-esque dress for our friend, Charlotte. We walked around Baltimore in our period pieces, creating chaos. It was awesome.

Some people did double takes, some ignored us, some rolled their eyes. Some people wanted to take photos with us, asked us where we got the clothes, and asked us why we were dressed up. The answer to the former was simple, “It’s a Tuesday!”

I paired by skirt with a corset I already had (and yes, those are bloomers). The skirt, besides being really hot in July heat, is very comfortable. It fits me great, and I love all the fabric. If you’re interested in getting one custom-made for yourself, you should check out Creations By Guinevere on Etsy. She did a great job for me, and all Cristen had to do was give her my measurements.

We had a fabulous time doing normal things in our outfits like getting lunch, shopping, and just walking around. Either way, these are probably the most ridiculous customer appreciation photos this Etsy seller has ever got! I’m okay with that.

Remember to always be yourself, it’s the truest form of self love. Ask yourself what you want to do, and then do it. It takes practice to not care what people think about you, but I promise life is better when you don’t.

If you like doing weird things in public, you might also enjoy:

Liquid Pranks
Fortune Teller
When Life Gives You Lemons

And speaking of self love, I’m currently hosting a Kickstarter to fund the publishing of my book on the topic! Consider contributing or sharing?!