-
There shouldn’t be a standard for what people should dress like – Tems
Nigerian singer Tems opened up about the evolution of her style and the significance of authenticity in self-expression during an interview with Karefa Johnson from Essence Magazine. Tems emphasized that her unique dress sense and overall style are a natural result of staying true to herself, rather than an attempt to project a specific image or message.
She shared her thoughts on the pressure to conform to certain expectations, particularly for artists and women, stressing the importance of embracing individuality. “You should be yourself even if something else is expected of you. You win, automatically, when you are yourself, no matter what that looks like. That’s why there’s variety,” Tems explained.
Tems further expressed her belief that there shouldn’t be a standard or requirement for how people, especially women or artists, should dress.
She highlighted the diversity of human expression, stating, “We’re different and are not all meant to be the same. And I know there’s a standard, but there shouldn’t be one. There shouldn’t be a standard for what people should dress like if they’re artists, or what people should dress like if they’re women. I just feel like we’re all unique. There shouldn’t be a requirement.”
When asked about being seen as a role model for self-love, acceptance, and authentic self-expression, Tems expressed gratitude for being recognized in this way.
She reiterated her commitment to authenticity, saying, “I appreciate that that’s what’s coming across. And I do think people should be themselves. I can’t really be anybody else. It’s just not going to work. You are doing yourself a disservice by trying to be someone else. You should just be who you are. Once you start trying, you’ve already missed the road.”
This interview highlights Tems’ dedication to staying true to herself and inspiring others to do the same, reinforcing her status as a role model for authenticity and self-expression.