Do clothes matter?

“Fashion is the armor to survive the reality of everyday life.” —Bill Cunningham, American fashion photographer

Writing about Greta Gerwig’s Barbie last week,* I jokingly credited Mattel’s Barbie dolls for fueling my interest in clothing and accessories. But that wasn’t far from my truth.

I’ve learned over the years that it takes as much effort to throw on an old T-shirt as it does to throw on a beautiful top. I believe the whole idea of “dressing down” — to appear as if you’re not trying too hard — can make as much of a statement as dressing to impress. Consider the fact that some people are willing to pay dearly for a pair of ripped jeans, for instance.

Depending on how you want to play it, getting dressed every day can be a mindless chore or it can be a creative way to express yourself without art supplies. With rare exceptions, I dress to please myself. And while I love beautiful clothing, I’m not a slave to fashion trends. Most of all, I want my wardrobe to cheer me up and help me “survive the reality of everyday life,” as today’s quote suggests. ~CL

*If you missed last week’s post on the “Barbie” film, click here