I have a confession to make!
As soon as I get home, from whatever I’ve been doing, the first thing I do is divest myself of the clothes and jewellery I have been wearing. And, yes, this includes my wedding ring too. I just cannot wear ‘proper’ clothes when I’m in the house. If I do, I just do not relax. This includes my time in the kitchen too. Unless I have guests, I will be wearing something old, usually baggy and extremely comfortable.
I remember well the horror on a client’s face when I mentioned this to her. She was truly shocked, and you may be too as it’s not the norm for an image professional or, if it is, most wouldn’t own up to it. When I asked my client what she chose to wear - and by the way she lives alone - it was the equivalent of her ‘Sunday Best’.
It brought back a memory of a TV documentary I watched many years ago about Margaret Thatcher. Despite being the longest serving UK Prime Minister in my lifetime, she would come back to her flat, after a very long day running the country, and rustle up an evening meal for her and Denis still wearing her power suit. Admittedly, she added an apron but even so! Just thinking about it gives me the shivers.
So what actually is comfort? The dictionary definition is: a pleasant feeling of being relaxed and free from pain. Well, I attest that my baggy, old clothing absolutely ensures I feel this way. I hate wearing anything too restrictive or tight. I also worry about light colours as I am prone to spill food or get them dirty in some other way. I want to feel ‘free’ when I’m in my own private sanctuary, even if I wouldn’t want anyone else to see me dress this way.
Apart from those who are always immaculately dressed, I have clients who are totally influenced by their mood when it comes to clothing. They can switch from chic to boho to sexy in an heartbeat. Their wardrobes are vast because they need to be able to mix and match as they see fit.
Others, maybe more like me, are extremely happy with the ongoing continuation of lockdown casual. Joggers, leggings, T shirts and sweaters are their preferred ‘go-to'. Many also prefer clothing that is totally practical. If it’s not fit for purpose, then why wear it? Horses for courses, if you like.
The last group are those who love the dramatic. Once again, my memory goes back to lockdown and viewing posts online of many taking out their rubbish bins in their ballgowns! Happy days.
So Here’s the Thing: We are what we are, and we are what we wear. If the two marry up, it’s all we can ask for. Our clothing is a visual communication tool telling people what we want them to know about us. The fact I have 2 entirely different ways of dressing is still consistent in that I need to feel comfortable. I would not feel right going out in my ‘at home’ clothes anymore than I would cooking in my professional attire.
What about you?
Do you also have 2 different wardrobes, dependent on what you’re doing? Please share? We’d all love to know.
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