I cannot tell you how inspired I was by all the comments on last week’s post. I feel like we are on to something that is still becoming and not yet there. So that means let’s keep talking. I am thinking of all the discourse this month on women’s empowerment and how fashion sees itself at the forefront of this movement. The comments keep coming and it feels like I have instigated a massive resurrection of bodies that were “disappeared” into uniforms of work, societal dictates about age, caregiving and somehow now realize they have been lost or erased. Thrillingly they want to be found and seen again. They are taking steps towards the “mirror”. My challenge to the fashion system and to ourselves is: you/we have a moment here; the challenge is are you/we going to take it?
For the fashion system that means engaging with all women in conversations about how fashion can be used as a tool to support women in all of their personal initiatives and dreams no matter who they are. Fashion brands can create collaborative spaces for women, of all identities and positionalities, to talk about garments that come from the inside/outside, where women’s creativity and brand expertise are put towards the project of innovation. For us that means the work of looking inward, of knowing who we are, strengths and limitations and owning them without reservation. That of course is easier said then done and there were wonderful suggestions such as interviewing other women who have achieved this level of confidence, having a physical space where there are “experienced” others who can assist and provide support in taking that first step towards experimenting, exposing more of my own process and many more.
So my process behind this outfit was that I had multiple tasks to achieve. My internet was acting up and I had to go to a coffee shop to download and send photos to someone. I also had to write a blog post, take a photo for a blog post, feature some clothes I have been sent that have been put to the side, and get this all done so I could travel to the suburbs and babysit my granddaughter so my daughter and son-in-law could celebrate St. Patricks Day. Normally sweats and a long sleeve t would do the job but given the need to post the pajamas were a fashionable alternative that provided the same level of ease and comfort. The silk pajama look felt light and not like another burden (and thus lifted my mood), signaled I was tired (so others might take care), had some color to give me some energy and traveled well. I added a long black coat, some boots, mitts (all for warmth) and of course my earrings to add some drama.
Someone also suggested crafting a statement that contains an authentic expression of one characteristic that describes you and you want to express through a garment or outfit you have styled. Anyone care to take this one on?
I post OOTD’s regularly and after reading this and thinking about it…I realize that I have been unintentional, intentionally striving for a tailored look. I like to be in control and have everything organized. That’s not how my life always goes, but it’s when I feel best. That’s the image I like to portray even though it isn’t necessarily how I always am. Fake it till you make it I’ve heard people say. Motives are everything. Portraying strength, trust, love. Crafting things that may not always be real in the moment but, in truth, reflecting most, the core person we most are. The people I love to follow most, portray honestly who they are. Photos can peer into a soul. I love that. Thanks for the thought-provoking post…I’ll need to read more of your writing. I do help people dress. I will focus more on encouraging them to express who they really are. My best to you. Jana
I always say a psychiatrist would have a heyday with me. I can’t just be ‘dressed up’. When I wear something luxurious i have to wear something damaged/distressed with it. Someone once asked me if there was anything i was afraid to wear and i said ‘yes. i would love to have the courage to wear a beautiful, glamorous gown and go bare-faced with no makeup, just to feature the dress and have that contrast.’ Don’t get me wrong – i’m not afraid to be seen without makeup, but because i wear it every day, it makes people very uncomfortable when they see me without it.
That one characteristic thing is a challenge, but if I have to pick one, it’s that I think… a lot. Sometimes just the right amount and sometimes (ok, maybe often), I over think. But now I get to think about an outfit that expresses my thinking, which is just perfect ?!
It is a challenge to pick just one focused characteristic! But here goes: Creative/creator/creation/creating—that is what comes to me. I often wear things I’ve made or at least embellished myself. I combine colors and textures and layers to please myself,, and hopefully those around me.
I wonder if your characteristic is changed significantly as you have moved from a black and white palette to embrace colour in your garment choices? I think the colour palette is fab.
Now, I need to go BACK and read the other POST!
Still NOT GETTING YOUR EMAIL NOTIFICATIONS!!!!!!!!!
This LOOK is NEW for YOU.
I like it!
Happy to hear you have a GRAND BABY who can pull on those EARRINGS!!!!!!
Love Love Love this article. The answer to your question “are we going to take the challenge?” YYEESSS!!! The fashion and beauty industries have a wonderful opportunity to show how they are supporting women in their initiatives, dreams and in their day-to-day lives.
Creating brands from the inside-out is like music to my ears and chocolate dipped strawberries to savour. My career started in fashion, moved into the beauty industry and evolved into psychology. Sharing BEaUty from the inside-out with girls and their mamas is my mission and I’m ready to take on the challenge as I invite mothers of daughters to the lounge where we claim our voices and strut the catwalk of life with a deep knowing of who we truly are…simply gorgeous by design. Quinn <3
You inspire me so much. I’ve been struggling with a chronic illness for several years now. I’m 56 and I mostly feel invisible in our society. Your authenticity and courage make me feel like there is room for me to express my unique self as well.
I also love the title of your blog. Today I was browsing the internet and discovered that another well known person in your age group just published a book that has the same name as your blog. It made me wonder if someone stole your idea. It seemed a bit too similar to be a coincidence.
The Pyjama Revolution: more than flannels at the bus stop, because we did’t get out of bed on time …The Pyjama Revolution means reassigning ANY garment for use in an outfit that speaks in novel ways, combining textures, patterns, colours, drapes or shapes to say … I am inviting a bell of mindfulness to sound. ? One of my favourite shirts is a pyjama top I have never worn to bed … LOL, and I was wearing it when I opened your post!