Who do we dress for?

I've touched on this topic previously but I am intrigued to delve a little bit deeper. When we get dressed, who are we trying to impress? Do we dress for comfort, silhouette, to fit in, to impress someone else, or do we dress to feel a certain way?
I tend to believe that the majority of people put together outfits with a specific outcome in mind. We seek approval from others by nature, so we wear what is in style at the time even if we think it's ugly.
Some women (and lots of men) dress for comfort. Their minds are preoccupied on other things rather than impressing anyone with their clothes. Many moms give the excuse that they have no time to dress themselves because their children are their first priority. Yes, your children should come first but that doesn't mean you should feel second best and treat yourself as such.
Others dress by silhouette. And often times they get it wrong. Some people who are a bit heavier think wearing tight fitting clothes will suck them in, au contraire, it shows off every little curve, dimple and fold. Others think wearing oversized clothes will make them look smaller. The opposite does not rain true on this one. You will look larger because the eye can only see the silhouette you've created with that muumuu.
Although black is slimming, that doesn't mean you should dress for a funeral on a daily basis. Do some research online and find out what fits will flatter your figure and what color does to your shape. Maybe I'll write a blog about this soon.
For now, back to who we dress for. Do we ever just dress for ourselves and buy something that none of our friends would approve of because we like the way it looks on the rack and we love the way it feels on?
If you answered no, here is my suggestion, go shopping alone. Go by yourself and don't ask any other person their opinion. Don't ask for help from a salesperson, don't ask the girl in the fitting room stall next to you. Ask yourself. How do I feel in this? Confident? Sexy? Happy? Dressing for yourself instead of trying to appease others will make you a happier and more confident person. And don't be surprised when you get complimented on your new look, because beauty really does come from within and when you are happy and comfortable in your own skin, and in your own style, it will radiate.
Disclaimer: dressing for yourself on a job interview may not be a good idea if your style is ripped shirts and miniskirts. Unless of course that job interview is for Hooters.

Good luck on your next shopping trip!
Xoxo