Getting Dressed...
I used to be a clothes horse - and a clothing designer (not professionally of course). I'm aspiring to be one again. Since taking on the challenge of motherhood, I have tended to grab whatever was cheap and comfy - you know, garments you don't mind being splattered with strained peas or sweet potatoes. Jeans are a beautiful thing - denim can really take a beating. I'm expecting my sixth baby and not relishing getting back into my tired old maternity clothes. I like some of what's in stores, but much of it is either too young for my taste, or too... well... old.
I've been thinking a lot lately about sayings I've had logged away in my memory, conversations with women I've known over the years. One of those women was also a clothing designer - her husband helped deliver our 3rd baby. She was getting on me about designing beautiful garments, and not actually wearing them. She said, "Get dressed, Sister!". That has always stuck with me, but it has taken nearly 10 years to approach putting into action. I also remember being told that dressing well (and dressing one's children well) honors your husband. It basically lets people know what a good provider he is. There is certainly a case for self-respect in good appearance and grooming as well as a respect for those with whom you are in company.
I'm not into frumpy as a rule, but I don't like being immodest either. That is a highly subjective notion, however. It can be tricky to strike the balance between beauty and modesty with what is available on the racks. I like that feminine clothing is on the way back to mainstream fashion. I tend towards classics, but I love uber-feminine accents. A bit of lace, or a graceful sleeve. I like garments that compliment a woman's shape, not hide it.
I'm getting tired of the kids not having presentable clothing for everyday - never mind for outings. Because of the nature of our particular lifestyle, we have to be ready to go out and be seen at any moment. In current circumstances it can be a real burden to put together an acceptable outfit, do the hair, make sure teeth are clean, etc. I used to dream of young daughters in smocks, boys in Eton suits. I would like to see my older children in classic garments - somewhat preppy (to use an antiquated term). I like quirky accessories and creative embellishments because they add some panache. No bare midriffs, or peeking fannies (cute as they were as babies) - I don't mind flattering a figure, but breathing is essential and I believe that imagination is good, but shouldn't be put into overdrive - especially when young ladies are the object of admiration.
Today, the entire family went through closets and drawers, pulling out all the uglies, the torn the stained - and the too small. We'll have a little talk by the resident fashion stylist (me!) about dressing in quality garments that flatter our figures and coloring, determining personal style, and good grooming. Later in the day, we'll be talking about quality garment construction while I teach kids about choosing patterns and fabrics - for making on their own, or for bringing to a seamstress or tailor. Later there will be field trips to the clothing stores, the salon, and the fabric store. If I'm fortunate, I'll squeeze in a trip to the milliner - we LOVE hats in this family.
It's time we look like we appreciate the blessings we've been given. We're getting dressed!
I've been thinking a lot lately about sayings I've had logged away in my memory, conversations with women I've known over the years. One of those women was also a clothing designer - her husband helped deliver our 3rd baby. She was getting on me about designing beautiful garments, and not actually wearing them. She said, "Get dressed, Sister!". That has always stuck with me, but it has taken nearly 10 years to approach putting into action. I also remember being told that dressing well (and dressing one's children well) honors your husband. It basically lets people know what a good provider he is. There is certainly a case for self-respect in good appearance and grooming as well as a respect for those with whom you are in company.
I'm not into frumpy as a rule, but I don't like being immodest either. That is a highly subjective notion, however. It can be tricky to strike the balance between beauty and modesty with what is available on the racks. I like that feminine clothing is on the way back to mainstream fashion. I tend towards classics, but I love uber-feminine accents. A bit of lace, or a graceful sleeve. I like garments that compliment a woman's shape, not hide it.
I'm getting tired of the kids not having presentable clothing for everyday - never mind for outings. Because of the nature of our particular lifestyle, we have to be ready to go out and be seen at any moment. In current circumstances it can be a real burden to put together an acceptable outfit, do the hair, make sure teeth are clean, etc. I used to dream of young daughters in smocks, boys in Eton suits. I would like to see my older children in classic garments - somewhat preppy (to use an antiquated term). I like quirky accessories and creative embellishments because they add some panache. No bare midriffs, or peeking fannies (cute as they were as babies) - I don't mind flattering a figure, but breathing is essential and I believe that imagination is good, but shouldn't be put into overdrive - especially when young ladies are the object of admiration.
Today, the entire family went through closets and drawers, pulling out all the uglies, the torn the stained - and the too small. We'll have a little talk by the resident fashion stylist (me!) about dressing in quality garments that flatter our figures and coloring, determining personal style, and good grooming. Later in the day, we'll be talking about quality garment construction while I teach kids about choosing patterns and fabrics - for making on their own, or for bringing to a seamstress or tailor. Later there will be field trips to the clothing stores, the salon, and the fabric store. If I'm fortunate, I'll squeeze in a trip to the milliner - we LOVE hats in this family.
It's time we look like we appreciate the blessings we've been given. We're getting dressed!
posted by Nissa at 11:15 AM
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