Angelina Jolie has opened up about a difficult transition in her life, and revealed that a period of introspection prompted her to take a step away from starring in major movies the past 10 years.

In an interview tied to the launch of Atelier Jolie, her new socially and environmentally conscious fashion endeavor, the 48-year-old Oscar winner and humanitarian told Vogue that she has largely attempted to communicate her complicated feelings through clothing — including while she navigated a particularly difficult time in her recent life.

"Sometimes the way you dress says, 'Don't mess with me — I've got my armor on.' But I want a woman to feel safe enough that she can be soft," Jolie said. "After I went through something where I was hurt, I had a therapist ask if I would try wearing a flowing garment. Sounds silly, but I assumed that pants and boots projected a 'tougher' look, a stronger me. But was I strong enough to be soft? At the time, no. I felt vulnerable. Now I wonder if I don't know what my style is because I'm still understanding who I am at 48. I guess I'm in transition as a person."