Capture Fashion by Amanda Del Duca

I read a quote a couple weeks ago that I cannot stop referencing. It’s really resonated with me and I keep saying the mantra to myself when I’m feeling unsure.

“The first step toward getting somewhere is to decide you are not going to stay where you are.”

During the summer months this year, I hadn’t felt particularly inspired or even sure what I wanted to accomplish next. Do I want to stay in Miami? Do I want to work full-time at a magazine? Do I want to keep styling? The questions were weighing on me so heavily that I was barely motivated to do my favorite thing in the world – photo shoots. It’s strange when you realize that you have to make a decision. It’s like Liz Lemon on 30Rock says: “I hate realizations.”

The feeling of complacency was the most unsettling emotion at the time, so attacking my inspiration problem was my first concern. Naturally, the notion of “willing” myself to think up an “amazing” idea was completely ridiculous. I’m not saying that my summer posts were a bust, I’m proud of all my work. I’m just trying to say I didn’t really feel it while doing it. Sometimes, going through the motions is part of the process, but not for me, not right now. Not while I’m in a position to shoot my hearts desire, as long as I can just borrow it.

Here’s where the quote comes in. I read it on my friend Marissa’s Instagram (yes, guilty) and basically it gave me a new perspective. I thought maybe it doesn’t matter where I “go/do” next, it just matters that I decide that I’m not going to continue what I’ve been doing. It was all very freeing.

Here I am nearing three weeks since an Instagram quote changed my life and I feel soo good. I’m majorly feeling the work that David and I have been producing over the past month and really excited for the next few.  I’m exploring and applying to all different kinds of opportunities in different locations. All in fashion, of course, I’m not insane.

My current outlook feels very fresh. I still have moments where I’m unsure and want to keep doing my normal gigs, then I think of all the things I want. Best get to it. x

Pop over to view wardrobe credits and my inspiration board for “A Mist Fell from my Eyes.”

First look: Parker NY white suit, all white and ivory with silk details on blazer. Essie, “Poor Little Rich Girl” nails. Revlon, “Wine with Everything” lips.

Second look: Parker NY sequin suit, grey sequin open blazer with cropped back-cut and grey sequin draw-string pants set. Urban Outfitters beanie. La Perla Sheer under-things top. Zara ankle boot court shoes.

Third look: Zara sweater dress with pockets. “Back Flips” calf-hair booties in Scarlett Mustang c/o Stuart Weitzman.