Sunday, May 09, 2010
NO HIDING HERE
Where I live, though I love it dearly, expression is reserved for art hung on walls or painted in houses, not for apparel or jewellry. This is a casual, one-size-fits-all, kind of place where folks dress down and interesting clothing is just, well, way out there. I'm always the one who shows up at the barbecue wearing something just a bit unusual and not particularly casual. I don't have acasual setting. Mine broke. Shorts and a plain tee? Please! I once had a fellow barbecue invitee stand back as I entered the door, saying "It's always interesting to see what Jane Thornley wears to a barbecue!" Yes, I did feel a bit like Specimen A.
Huh. Not my plainest, dullest, clothes, I'll tell you that. No way. I save those for gardening. The last time I went to a barbecue I wore a brass and turquouise lillypad necklace, a black pair of capris, a long tunic with an almost art nouveau design with a wrap I designed. Maybe it's because I work all day at home while these people are in offices all day, dressed up for work. They can't wait to pull off the good duds while I can't wait to put them on. Besides, I argue: I am a esigner. It's my job to inspired. My'rules' for dressing:
- Never dress to hide. People don't like it when they can't find you
- Embrace color. That's where light hangs out
- Forget about dressing your age. If you feel good in it, wear it!
Hey, even when at home by myself, I always wear a necklace and earrings! Santa Fe gets this. Here in Spain:
Posted by Jane on
05/09 at 10:54 AM
I SO understand where you're at with this issue. I come from the Chicago area, where people do dress up (although not to the degree they used to). I've always loved Art to Wear, and have an extensive collection; but now I live in Tucson, where getting dressed up means putting on a fresh pair of shorts, and maybe a t-shirt without a logo. My husband loves it, but I'm frustrated, especially now that I have all my Jane inspired finery. I do wear it, but even at the symphony or other performances, I stand out. Well, maybe that's a good thing.........
By Audrie/Purple Butterfly on 2010 05 10
I so agree! Life is too short to dress in a boring way! I think of putting together an outfit as a piece of art for every day.
By purpleclaire on 2010 05 11
Love the colours in your wrap. I also feel naked without my jewellery on everyday.
By barefootknitty on 2010 05 14
Oh, I love Rule Number 3! And I enjoy your blog.
By Linda Byrd on 2010 05 16
With all your beautiful work, spectacular colors and designs, I wouldn't want to hide them either :D Thanks for my daily inspiration and food for thought, Jane!
By Sarah on 2010 05 09