When I Was a Girl. . .

Photo Credit: abercrombiekids.com

My daughters start to groan whenever I start a sentence this way. I am sure that I did the same when my mom spoke about how much things had changed from the time when she was growing up. Oh well. Today's post is about a very thought provoking article from the Conselle Institute of Image Management.  The author argues that as standards of dress have declined in America, so have our productivity and individualism (and our morals!). 

What follows are some excerpts from the article. To read the entire piece, go here. 

Demanding to wear only what is "easy," we lose the ability to coordinate what is comparatively harder. We don't, can't, and then won't rise above the level of T-shirts and jeans—where anything goes. Fashion or wardrobe skills and creativity are lost and gradually devalued to make those without skills and creativity feel better than those who do.

When was the last time you got "dressed up" in something you really like. Think back on where you went and how terrific you felt. Did you step out on the town, visit friends, or go to a movie or a meeting with more than your usual enthusiasm and self-confidence? Were you pleased with the way you looked and felt? Did you stand a little taller? Did you speak with others a little more often or longer? If so, then your sense of self was getting some healthy exercise. Why should that experience be relegated to just a few times a year—if ever?

But, you say, getting dressed up is something you do only when you have to because it's uncomfortable, expensive, time consuming, or not really you. Nonsense. Dressing up doesn't mean giving up comfort or personal style. Common sense says that comfortable knits and softer fabrics are fine. Clothes that don't have to be ironed are okay, too. You don't have to sacrifice your values or your time for fashion or style.

Consider that when you give some thought and effort to dressing in a variety of ways for a variety of moods and occasions, you become more individual, creative, confident, and competent. Within the time available, you become more involved with more people, in more places, and in more pursuits. Life becomes more interesting. Productivity increases. You are more likely to become self-actualized and to accomplish satisfying goals.

What are your thoughts about this article? Please comment.