Fashion and Fitness

Introduction

At The Difference, we are always interested how weight management crosses over into different topics. There is obvious discussion to have about nutrition and exercise, but the subject influences other things such as our performance as athletes, what we cook for dinner, or how long we can stay on dance floor. In this article, Travis Winters, one of our Influencers, discusses the crossover of weight management with fashion from a personal perspective.

Travis’ Story

“Growing up as a child from Philadelphia my parents were both involved in the church. My father was a pastor, and my mother was an evangelist. I grew up in a middle-class neighborhood. We were the family always going to church in our Sunday Best and on Tuesdays and Wednesdays we were in Bible Study and Prayer Meeting in similar attire. I always wore a suit on Sundays. On other days when we went to church, my parents had me wear dress pants, shirts, and shoes. In middle and high school, I began to form my own style of attire and what I wore to church during the week was my baseline. There were a few times that I would wear jeans, sneakers, and a polo shirt, but this was rare.  Eventually, I began to have my own sense of style. I liked being a well-dressed young gentleman in school. This carried through into college. I started performing in talent and fashion shows because I loved music, fashion performing, and showcasing my style as a way of expressing creativity.

After college graduation, I decided that I wanted to be more involved in fashion and modeling, so I established a fashion and image consulting business called Younique Fashion and Image Consulting, Inc.  I wanted to be able to provide a service for men and women who were interested in me helping them ‘Create a New You’, which is my business motto. I introduce my clients to new looks and styles to add to their wardrobe, including full outfits for all needs ranging from business to special occasions.

I learned from my own personal experiences that it was not only important to look good but to feel good as well. Living a healthy life is important to me. This became especially true after I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, which is hereditary in my family.  I had to learn and train myself how to eat healthy food, cut out certain carbohydrates, and reduce consumption of sugar and fatty foods. My physique changed because I lost weight due to my diabetes and I had to adjust my fashion style accordingly. I had to learn which clothes complemented my new proportions, such as finding new suits to wear to work and church. When I modeled in fashion shows, I showed my new, leaner, stylish profile.

I had to learn the importance of a having a healthy lifestyle and diet, which includes exercise, monitoring my sugar intake, taking my medication, and getting rest. Before thinking about my clothing, I wanted to not only look good, but feel good from the inside out. Our bodies are holy temples and I want to take good care of the only one that I have been given. By taking care of myself both physically, mentally, and spiritually, I am empowered to help others. My belief is that fashion, nutrition, and fitness work in unison. The result from being well-dressed, eating well and exercising is that you look good and feel good. It is a holistic approach that goes beyond visual presentation. Strive to offer the whole package of yourself at the table.”
– Travis Winters.

Conclusion

Travis’ perspective on the crossover between weight management and fashion is insightful. Please add your comments below. To find out more about Travis and his business, please check out and Follow his Facebook Page Younique Fashion and Image Consulting. and Instagram Account @travis_j_winters.