In the olden days ( pre-COVID) the most frequent reason I heard for women not wanting to dress well was that they were dissatisfied with their current weight. Now? What I hear most frequently is, “I don’t have anywhere special to go or any reason to dress up.”

I imagine a woman from the 1950’s, dressed in her pretty twin set and full skirt, dropping down into an urban scene 75 years later and looking around at the sea of grey sweatshirts, leggings and black down vests and wondering what happened. Apocalypse? I would have to explain that the change was gradual, a result of working from home, fear, economic issues, depression and other priorities.

Some of the changes are positive, more comfort and acceptance of diversity and natural beauty. During COVID many women got used to their faces without makeup and their hair it’s natural color. So where does caring for your appearance and dressing for self-expression fit in?

One of the things our visitor from the past would see are some women dressing creatively, bright flowers in a dull landscape. Some of these flowers are proudly “overdressed” at times. They are by turns unusual, creative, trendy, even odd. Some are elegantly and stylishly put together. However eclectic, fashion, style and personal expression are still alive and well. As you read this, I know that spark is alive in you too.

You don’t need an occasion to dress beautifully. Many of my days are casual, but I still enjoy contemplating my wardrobe choices. When I succeed in putting together an expressive outfit I feel champagne bubbles of pleasure. When I’m dissatisfied that a combination isn’t flattering I either keep trying or make a mental note about why. Is the top too big or the wrong shape with the pants? How about a long skirt or a vest? Or both?

Closet improvisation is an art.

Creative pursuits are satisfying when you work at them and getting dressed is an opportunity to practice. 

In all of our actions we represent what we want to see more of in the world. I want women to look at me and remember dressing up is fun. What do you want to say? Below are a few suggestions to remind you of the sisterhood that cares.

Don’t shy away from standing out.

Taking care with an outfit doesn’t mean having to “dress up.” Comfort and practicality are essential. Rock those athletic shoes.

Use every occasion as a reason to wear something special. 

Put on a great outfit  and then decide you would rather stay home. Take it off. 

Be okay with being the only one that made an effort with their clothing. 

Everyone is entitled to do their own thing. Don’t judge. 

Notice some of the smaller efforts people make. A great color, nice earrings, cool boots. Compliment them. 

Follow trends you like. Experiment with a new color. Brown is everywhere this fall. A  trend is another way to see, not a mandate. 

Organize your closet in a way that encourages creativity. Take the time to maintain it.

Give yourself time to “style” your outfit. Consider it part of your daily art practice.

 When shopping online it’s easy to be obsessed with clothes in a way that isn’t supportive of your overall well being. Be kind to yourself and look for other options. 

Trust you won’t go overboard financially. Or maybe you will go overboard… but if you shop carefully and love what you buy it will balance out. 

Share. Shop with a friend and send a fashion lover a mirror selfie. 

 

Happy fall! Send me great shopping find or a photo of an outfit. I love hearing from you.