No one should have to be slaves to fashion (unless they want to be)!
A few weeks ago, I stopped by the thrift store down the street to pick up a vase. After finding the perfect one, I walked up to pay and into a conversation that had the employee very troubled. He didn’t understand how so many men had the time or money to look so put together. “It looks like they spend hours on each outfit.”
I wanted to hear where this conversation was going, and luckily I wasn’t in a hurry.
The man he was talking to listened and nodded as the employee described a scene this morning where he tried on a blazer from his closet for his wife. The sleeves were too long but he couldn’t decide if it was worth having it altered—or donating it to the thrift store. He was frustrated with having clothes he doesn’t wear and not having what he needs.
I couldn’t stay quiet any longer. “If those guys spend hours getting dressed every day, they’re wasting time.”
That piqued his interest.
“All you do is figure out what’s comfortable and works for your life and only buy those things. Nothing else.”
He’s still listening.
“If you prefer neutral tee shirts and jeans like you’re wearing today, invest in several colors of shirts, short and long sleeve, a few pairs of nice, well-tailored jeans, and maybe a sport coat that blends.”
He totally got it. “So if my closet is full of those things, they’ll all match. I won’t have to think about what to wear every day.”
“Exactly.” Then I shared guidance a Dallas wardrobe consultant always says. You should be able to close your eyes in your closet, grab anything and be happy wearing it that day.
Fashion is a big deal for many women, but I have to admit I’ve never heard men have a conversation like that. If they think about it, they likely won’t talk about it, especially in front of strangers. Then I became more aware of what he said. Some men are very put together, and magazine, TV and even newspapers are jammed with the hottest, smartest men’s fashion. I can understand how he was discouraged.
He offered a gracious thank you and I paid for my vase. Now I need to stop by again and see if he’s changed his ways.
Fashion should be an accessory to help you enjoy life!
