DRESS NOT TO DEPRESS OTHERS
This particular Saturday, I lazed around all day reading. By the time 6 o’clock chimed and I was supposed to meet up with Kelly to make dinner and watch a movie, I was still wearing stripped pajama pants and a wrinkled brown wife beater. I debated showing up as is but I recognize that sometimes there is a fine line between dressing casual and looking like one has just stepped out of rehab.
As a culture we spoil each other by getting dressed up all week. When the worst of the casual dress days come and we see each other, we don’t know whether to cringe at the others appearance or ask if they are okay. The last time I visited my family in Idaho Falls, a place where dressing up can be perceived as pretentious, I thought it would be safe to dress down. I skipped my make-up and wore a t-shirt and jeans. My brother, who wears t-shirts and jeans himself, got concerned about my appearance and several times asked why I didn’t primp. Most sisters might have slapped their brother in response, but really I thought the whole situation was amusing. I think the next time I want a little extra love and doting I’ll remember to put on sweats.
So with 10 minutes to get ready and not wanting to depress Kelly with my appearance, I decided to change my clothes. I still wanted to be comfortable so the first thing I gravitated towards was my t-shirt that I bought in Portland. I purchased it for its lovable baby buggy with tentacles coming out of it. To dress it up, I paired it with my 70s Ship N’ Shore full length maxi skirt and 70s shirt with lapels. I also added a beret because it is difficult to look like a slouch with one on.
Photographer: Kelly Lynae
