Dressing Up

I love clothes, but I hate shopping. Especially, when looking for something specific. Once you have envisioned the perfect look it is often difficult to find. Usually, the look involves something that would be fabulous on a model of 5’10 not so attractive on my 5’4 frame. OK, I found the outfit, now comes the equally thrilling hunt for the perfect shoes. Did I mention that I love shoes? Of course six-inch heels are not always practical, but to hit the 5”10 mark—See my dilemma?

Planning a wardrobe for a special occasion involves so much more than shopping. Clothes are like a messenger. They announce your arrival as an extension of who you are.  Let’s face it; people judge. They often assume things about you before you ever have a chance to speak. Do the clothes make the (wo)man?  Put on a pretty dress and you feel pretty. Put on sexy lingerie and you feel sexy. Put on a pair of sweats and you feel, comfy-if not a little sloppy. So in a sense, it makes you feel a certain way and your actions usually follow accordingly. When your fingers slide over cool silk how do you feel? Scratchy dense wool against your cheek, what are your memories? Cashmere sliding over your torso, what do you envision?

Clothes can create a scenario, evoke and make memories, bring comfort and confidence. They are so much more than thread and fabric. Fortunately my recent clothing woes have been solved by a somewhat rash decision. It may not be my usual style, but it will make me feel exactly how I will need to feel. Little girls are always dressing up in mommy’s party clothes and costumes. They envision themselves as someone else for a brief moment. Then they usually giggle and smear lipstick on their face!  So pull out the feathers and big hats. Look in the mirror and purse your lips, you’re a big girl now, go on- giggle away.