Part 5: The Truth About Dysmorphia: Reflections and Final Thoughts

Reflecting on This Journey

I am... whatever I say I AM

Writing this series has been one of the most vulnerable yet rewarding experiences of my career. It has forced me to confront my own struggles, relive moments of triumph, and share truths that I’ve kept private for a long time. As an image coach and fashion stylist, I’ve always believed in the power of appearance—not as a tool for vanity but as a means of self-expression and confidence. Yet, this series allowed me to dive deeper, connecting the outer appearance with the inner journey of self-discovery.

Sharing these blogs has been like opening a window into my soul. I’ve felt every emotion while reading your comments and messages—from gratitude to an overwhelming sense of community. I realized that while I’ve helped countless clients align their style with their identity, this series was a way to align my story with my purpose.

Clarifying Dysmorphia and Complexes

As I close this series, I want to address a question that might have crossed your mind: What’s the difference between dysmorphia and a complex? While both can affect how we perceive ourselves, they are not the same. Dysmorphia, specifically Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), is a mental health condition characterized by an intense preoccupation with perceived flaws in one’s appearance, often leading to significant emotional distress or disruption in daily life. A complex, on the other hand, refers to a more general feeling of insecurity or discomfort about certain aspects of ourselves—whether physical, emotional, or situational.

Understanding this distinction is vital. Many people may have insecurities or struggle with certain features, but dysmorphia goes deeper, often requiring professional intervention to address the underlying causes. My goal in this series has been to create awareness, provide tools for self-reflection, and encourage self-compassion. If you resonate with the experiences described here and feel overwhelmed by your self-perception, I strongly encourage seeking guidance from a mental health professional.

A Deeper Understanding of Dysmorphia

Dysmorphia is not just about how we see ourselves in the mirror; it’s about the stories we attach to that reflection. For years, I knew how to dress my body type, project confidence, and embrace fashion as a form of artistry. But I also carried a silent battle—one where the clothes came off, and I felt disconnected from what I saw. Overcoming that disconnection didn’t happen overnight. It was a process of seeing my body not just as an image but as a vessel of my values, experiences, and resilience.

What surprised me most was how much healing came after my youngest child. At my heaviest weight, I felt the most connected to my body. It wasn’t about appearance anymore; it was about honoring what my body had been through and what it represented. This series has given me the chance to revisit those moments and share them with you—not as a story of perfection but as one of progress and acceptance.

Beyond Fashion: The Role of an Image Coach

Many of you know me as a fashion stylist, but this series has allowed me to highlight my role as an image coach. While fashion is a significant part of what I do, my true passion lies in helping people align their inner values with their external presentation. It’s not just about finding the perfect outfit—it’s about creating a harmony between how you see yourself, how you want to be seen, and the person you aspire to become.

The silhouette exercise I shared in Part 3 has been a cornerstone of my work. It’s more than a tool—it’s a bridge between self-reflection and self-celebration. Seeing your values represented in your body changes everything. It shifts the focus from criticism to gratitude, from comparison to individuality. As an image coach, my goal is to guide clients through that transformation, ensuring they feel confident both inside and out.

My Takeaways from This Series

Sharing my story and hearing yours has reinforced a few key lessons:

1. Vulnerability Creates Connection: Opening up about our struggles doesn’t make us weaker; it brings us closer to those who resonate with our journey.

2. Healing Takes Time: Progress isn’t linear, but every step forward matters. Celebrate the small victories.

3. Your Body Tells a Story: Every stretch mark, curve, and line is part of your narrative. Embrace it.

A Thank You to My Community

To everyone who has read, shared, or reflected on this series: thank you. Your engagement has made this journey meaningful. You’ve reminded me why I do what I do and why sharing these truths matters. Dysmorphia is a deeply personal topic, but together, we’ve created a space for growth, understanding, and support. I also want to give a special thanks to my cousin (and she knows who she is) for her support during this series. Her input and her belief in what I am doing gave me the push every day to assume a responsible position before my community.

Moving Forward

As we close this series, I want to invite you to take what you’ve learned and apply it in your life. Whether it’s trying one of the exercises, challenging a negative thought, or simply looking in the mirror with a little more kindness, remember that small steps lead to big changes. And if you ever feel stuck, know that I’m here to guide you.

This isn’t the end of the conversation—it’s just the beginning. Let’s continue to explore what it means to see ourselves with confidence and style, to celebrate our stories, and to honor the unique individuals we are.

What has this series meant to you? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your reflections in the comments or message me directly. Let’s keep the conversation going.

Key Takeaway: Dysmorphia is more than a reflection; it’s a story we tell ourselves. By rewriting that story with compassion and gratitude, we can transform how we see ourselves and our place in the world.

Written by: Carilyn Egleé

Personal Image Coach

January 18, 2025

Disclaimer: This blog is not intended to replace professional advice or treatment. If you believe you are experiencing body dysmorphia or any related condition, please seek guidance from a qualified mental health professional.