Positive Body Image Starts with How We Dress

There’s a moment many of us know well. Standing in front of the mirror, tugging at a shirt, adjusting a waistband, trying to make something work that just doesn’t feel right. It's not always about the clothing itself. Often, it’s about how we feel in our own skin.

At Top Buttons, we believe that clothing can be a powerful part of building a healthy body image. When we dress in a way that reflects who we are and how we want to show up in the world, something shifts. We begin to stand a little taller. We take up space with more confidence. We start to believe that we are worthy of being seen.

For many of the young women in our Wearing Confidence Program, this experience is brand new. Some have never had access to clothes that truly fit them, feel comfortable, or reflect their personal style. Others have grown up being told they needed to look a certain way to be valued. When they come into our boutique and find something that fits well and feels right, it’s not just about the outfit. It’s about feeling seen, respected, and valued.

That’s why we don’t just hand out clothes. We walk with each girl through the process. We ask meaningful questions to guide them:
What are your clothing needs right now?
Ignore the brand and size, how does this make you feel?
What message does this outfit send, and is that the message you want to communicate?
Where do you see yourself wearing this, and how does the setting shape what you want your outfit to say?
Is this something you would choose for yourself?

These conversations help young women connect their clothing choices to their goals, their confidence, and their identity. For example, preparing for a job interview often means choosing an outfit that communicates professionalism, confidence, and teamwork. Other times, it might mean finding something that simply feels like “you,” something that brings comfort or joy.

We also take time to talk about what the world says about body image. The messages are everywhere—on social media, in advertising, in conversations. They often tell us that beauty looks one way, and that we need to change to fit in. But we believe real beauty is found in individuality, in confidence, and in kindness toward our own bodies.

As a faith-based organization, we remind each girl that she is fearfully and wonderfully made, created by God with intention and value. That truth is the foundation of our message: you are deeply loved. Your worth is already secure. The right clothing doesn’t give you value—it simply helps you walk in it.

Building a positive body image doesn’t happen overnight. It takes care, consistency, and experiences that reinforce our worth. At Top Buttons, we see clothing as one of the tools that helps young women recognize and believe in their value. When a girl walks out of our boutique with her head held high, wearing something that makes her feel strong, the transformation is about more than style. It’s about self-worth.

And that’s what we’re really here for.