I've always wanted to wear black lipstick, but I think you have

"I've always wanted to wear black lipstick, but I think you have to have like a really cool personality." These words spoken by Taylor Tomlinson reflect a deep understanding of identity, self-expression, and the relationship between our outward appearance and the inner persona we present to the world. Tomlinson touches on the idea that certain styles or choices, like wearing black lipstick, are not merely fashion statements but are deeply intertwined with the confidence and authenticity that one must embody in order to carry them off. Black lipstick, in her words, is more than a cosmetic choice—it is a reflection of one's character, a symbol of the boldness and individuality required to step beyond conventional norms and embrace something uniquely one's own.

In the ancient world, personal appearance was often a reflection of one's status, role, and purpose in society. Roman emperors adorned themselves in robes of purple, a color reserved for the elite, while soldiers wore their armor as a symbol of strength and readiness for battle. Similarly, in ancient Greece, the philosophers wore simple cloaks, their humble appearance speaking not to wealth or status but to their focus on wisdom and virtue. Personal style in these times was deeply connected to the identity one held within the community. What one wore was a statement about what they stood for, and the confidence to wear that attire was equally significant. Just as the ancients dressed to reflect their values, so too does Tomlinson’s remark about black lipstick highlight the connection between appearance and authenticity.

Tomlinson’s comment on black lipstick reveals a profound truth—that true self-expression requires not just the outward symbolism of an identity but the inner strength to carry it. This truth can be traced back to the story of Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt, whose boldness in both appearance and action made her one of the most famous figures in history. Cleopatra did not merely dress in luxurious clothes; she also knew how to wield her charisma and intelligence to influence the greatest powers of her time. She understood that appearance, combined with a strong inner personality, was a powerful force in shaping legacy. In the same way, black lipstick is not merely a cosmetic choice for Tomlinson, but a reflection of the inner boldness and confidence one must cultivate to step outside the bounds of convention.

Consider the example of Joan of Arc, whose physical appearance—her armor and simple attire—became a symbol of her inner strength and resolve. Joan was not concerned with what others thought of her looks or her unconventional choices as a female warrior. Instead, she knew that her purpose was to lead, to inspire, and to fight for something greater than herself. Her courage to defy gender norms and wear armor was a reflection of her character and her conviction. Similarly, Tomlinson's reflection on wearing black lipstick connects to this idea of being bold—that one’s appearance is most powerful when it aligns with their true self, their inner strength and personality.

The deeper lesson here is one of authenticity—the idea that true self-expression comes from within. Black lipstick, as Tomlinson suggests, is more than a fashion statement; it is a choice that reflects a deeper confidence in oneself. To wear it, or any bold choice, requires self-assurance and a willingness to stand apart from the crowd. This is not just about fashion; it is about embracing what makes you unique and true to yourself. The act of expressing oneself through what we wear, how we present ourselves, and the choices we make, speaks volumes about who we are at our core.

In the ancient world, courage and wisdom were often tied to the ability to stand firm in one’s beliefs and to live in accordance with one’s true nature, despite the opinions of others. The philosophers and warriors who stood out in history did so not because they followed the trends of their time, but because they followed their own calling and purpose, no matter how unconventional it may have seemed. In this way, we too are called to express our true selves, even if our choices may not always fit the norms of society. Like black lipstick, our decisions about how to express ourselves in the world speak to a deeper, more profound courage and authenticity.

The lesson we can take from Tomlinson's words is this: true self-expression requires confidence—the confidence to wear our identity proudly, without fear of judgment or rejection. Just as the ancient figures found strength in their ability to stand apart, so too must we find the courage to make choices that reflect our inner truth. Whether it is through fashion, art, or words, we must embrace the boldness within us and allow it to guide our path. Authenticity is the greatest form of beauty, and it is through embracing that authenticity—whether in flip-flops and jeans or black lipstick—that we create a life that is truly our own.