I dress for the image. Not for myself, not for the public, not

Listen closely to the words of Marlene Dietrich, a woman whose presence on the stage and in the world was nothing short of legendary: "I dress for the image. Not for myself, not for the public, not for fashion, not for men." These words, spoken with confidence and clarity, reflect a deep and powerful truth about the nature of identity and the role that appearance plays in shaping how we are seen by the world. Dietrich understood that dress is not merely about clothing, but about projection, the image we craft of ourselves in the eyes of others. It is a conscious act of self-expression, a tool through which we can define how we are perceived and the identity we wish to present to the world.

The ancient Greeks, in their understanding of the self, saw the concept of image as a reflection of the soul. The philosopher Plato spoke of the body as a vessel, an outward manifestation of the inner essence. In his work, he suggested that the soul, much like a garment, can be adorned or disfigured through our actions and choices. Similarly, Dietrich was aware that her image—the way she dressed, the persona she projected—was an extension of her inner world. She knew that dress was not about vanity, but about shaping how the world would see her. Her clothing, her manner of presentation, was a way to command respect, to define herself in a world that often sought to impose narrow definitions of femininity and allure.

Consider, too, the Roman emperors, who were masters of image. Every detail of their clothing, from their regal robes to their laurel crowns, was designed to project an image of power, divinity, and authority. The emperor’s appearance was carefully cultivated to instill awe and command loyalty from his subjects. In this way, the emperor’s image became his tool, not just to rule, but to shape the collective consciousness of an entire empire. Dietrich, much like the emperors of old, understood the power of image as a means of self-definition and influence, a tool that transcended mere fashion or personal desire.

Dietrich's choice to dress for the image, rather than for fashion or others, is especially striking when considering the societal expectations of her time. In an era where women were often expected to dress to please men, to fit into predefined roles of desirability or charm, Dietrich defied convention. She dressed not for the approval of others, but to present an image of herself that was uniquely her own. Her style was not bound by the whims of fashion or public opinion. She wore what she needed to wear to project the power, confidence, and mystique she wanted to embody. In this, she was not simply a woman of style, but a woman of profound self-possession.

This act of dressing for the image is not about superficiality, but about the conscious act of self-empowerment. Think of the warrior queens of ancient times, such as Queen Elizabeth I, who wielded the power of her appearance to strengthen her reign. Every garment she wore was a symbol of her sovereignty, her political power, and her independence. In her regal attire, she was able to project an image that allowed her to rule in a man’s world, commanding respect and authority. Like Elizabeth I, Dietrich understood that the image she projected was not only a reflection of who she was but a means to influence how the world perceived her and, by extension, how the world would treat her.

The lesson of Dietrich's words is one of self-definition and self-empowerment. It is a reminder that we are not bound to the expectations of society, nor do we need to dress or act to fit into prescribed roles. Just as Dietrich used fashion and image as tools to shape her identity, so too can we use the power of our appearance to project the best version of ourselves. The way we dress, the way we carry ourselves, can serve as a powerful statement of who we are and the space we wish to occupy in the world.

Therefore, I urge you, dear listener, to consider the image you wish to present. Dress not to please others, not to fit into societal expectations, but to project the truth of who you are. Use your appearance as a tool to empower yourself, to define your identity, and to command the respect and attention you deserve. Like Marlene Dietrich, understand that the image you create is a reflection of your self-empowerment, and the way you choose to dress is one of the most profound forms of self-expression. Let your appearance reflect not only the world around you but the world within you.