OBSESSING?

Recently I have found myself captivated by two very disparate wardrobe ‘essentials’. The first is leather. The second is trainers (sneakers). Yes, you read that correctly - trainers. This is from someone who faithfully wore heels for decades and only removed them for bed and bath.

So, let’s start with the leather. I’m calling it an obsession rather than fetish for obvious reasons! I think it came about when I was asked if I would like to present at the forthcoming FIPI (Federation of Image Consultants International) conference in October. While I am more than delighted to do so, I realised immediately that my wardrobe would need some kind of upgrade.

I live in a small market town. I’m not saying that looking good or being fashionable isn’t a way of life here but, let’s face it, it’s not London. Lifestyle is an important driver of building a successful wardrobe and I think I’ve nailed it. For me, comfort and the ability to move are key, and I mix and match with trends that I believe still suit a 66 year old woman. Denim skirts and jeans, cashmere sweaters, cotton shirts, knit dresses and lots of boots and sandals, depending on the weather. The glasses, hair and red lipstick ensure I’ll still be noticed - something else I require from my outfits.

I already owned a ‘pleather’ skirt and a pair of leather trousers. Both of which, I was planning to donate to a clothing agency to re-sell on my behalf. But, amazingly, they suddenly became the staple garments around which I created new outfits. Not only that, I have recently purchased leather dungarees (overalls if you live in the US), a leather skirt with a slit up the front and a leather shirt come jacket. The latter two garments looked so good on me that the boutique owner from which I made the purchase decided to wear them in a similar fashion.

So, my intention for the conference is to mix the leather skirt with a crisp, white shirt and a brand new pair of boots. A cross between knee highs and cowboy, they should immediately make the outfit unique and fresh. At the conference, I will undoubtedly be the only black and white in a sea of colour and I am totally OK with that. If the weather is nice, I may ring the changes with red patent kitten heels. Always good to add a splash of colour if you can.

Back to the trainers. Here in Spalding I walk everywhere. The pavements are uneven, some cobbled, and my beloved high heels have no place here. I have worn a few pairs of trainers since they became ubiquitous here in the UK, trending with flowey (often floral) midi dresses during/after the pandemic.

My brand new pair are dark green suede Tamaris. They are soooo comfortable compared to their lookalike, the Adidas Gazelle. Even though short of leg, I can team with jeans and skirts and they look classy - I know. Who would have thought of that particular adjective when describing sports shoes? I also invested in a pair of Adidas Campus, grey suede with black stripes, as its bulkier shape pairs wonderfully well with a knit dress.

Even though these two obsessions seem unrelated, it makes sense if we look at my Elemental Profile in Fashion Feng Shui. I am primarily wood, which means the ability to move is crucial. My Influencing Element is fire, so essential I am noticed. I can wear related styling designs in a myriad of ways to suit my mood at the time. Suede and leather are both fire, as is a more body conscious fit. Both the trainers and the leather items provide these. The fact I’m going heavy on these is perhaps because a. I need to be noticed or b. I want more fun in life. Both are attributes of Intentional Dressing using the fire element. The trainers enable me to move quickly, an essential for me, and they are super comfy on my feet which are prone to blisters. The fact I can wear together is a bonus, even though it might seem a little odd.

Here’s the thing: Once you are aware of your clothing values and what your wardrobe needs to give you, it’s much easier to ring the changes when required. I never, ever, get bored with my wardrobe despite wearing only neutral colours. Selecting instead, from a choice of fabrics, textures, silhouettes or patterns brings an uplifting freshness to my annual sartorial update.

How about you? Do you also have a new ‘obsession’? Please tell.