Dear Friend,
This week I went shopping for my daughter for Christmas and I came across something I thought I should have for myself: a sequined skirt that looked fun, wasn't too short and had the potential to look good (I thought) with boots and tights.
Second Thoughts
In considering the skirt, I had a moment of "Hmm, is this going to work for me at my age?" So I sent a text message with a picture of the skirt to a dear friend who is an impeccable dresser. We worked together years ago and I value her opinion.
In my message I asked her, "Is this too 15-year-old of a look?" and included how I was going to wear it and for what event. What I got back from her made me laugh so hard I had to leave the store.
Second Opinion
Her text back read something like this: "She can totally rock that by funking up the look." My friend thought I was asking about the skirt for my daughter, not myself! Well, there was my answer, loud and clear - I was trying to dress as someone I'm not. I was momentarily mortified and then I went right to relief. I am fortunate to have a friend who is honest about what is actually an appropriate and classy look for me.
What Does Appropriate Mean?
My clients know that in general, I don't advise getting sidelined by society's idea of "appropriate dress" - all too often that phrase means "boring and inauthentic." However in this case, the word appropriate is, well, appropriate! I should definitely not wear a look that would work on my 15-year-old.
I share this story because it's important to remember that everyone wonders about their look sometimes. It's when we forge ahead without the advice of a trusted friend that we can get into trouble. So pick a friend whose opinion you respect and count on him or her to be honest with you when you're wavering. Commit to calling or texting them when you're facing a style decision that's got you second-guessing. And then listen to their sage advice!
You Can Be Appropriate and Still Have Fun
Shopping for the holidays and prepping for the new year are both opportunities to open your mind and try new things. While you are shopping for yourself or others this holiday season, remember that here's no time like the present to show up as The Real You. Expand your horizons - and remember you can call on your trusted friend when you need that valuable second opinion!
Happy Holidays, and I'll see you in the New Year!
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Patricia Gorham Inside/Out Style |
Fashion Through the Ages
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Holiday shopping for yourself or a loved one? Check out Fashion: The Definitive History of Costume and Style, a stunning compendium from The Smithsonian. Gorgeously designed and packed with photos, illustrations and timelines, it shares just enough information to be enlightening without getting bogged down in details. It's a beautiful look at how we got to where we are today in our fashion and style. Sneak a peak at a few lovely inside pages at Amazon.
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| A gorgeous piece about gorgeous pieces |
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Wild Porcupine Designs
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I recently attended an auction and Sarah Cook of Wild Porcupine Designs had donated a piece of jewelry from her collection. I liked it so much I bid on it - I didn't win the piece, but was inspired to check out her full collection online later. Geometric and architectural, her rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces are fabulous pieces for everyday wear - while being unique enough to feel special and attract attention.
See the whole collection at Sarah's website.
| Memorable and fun jewelry |
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