Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Dressing The Part

When I was a first year teacher, I made up my mind that I would dress counter to type.  That means I would do everything within my budget and the school dress code to look decidedly un-teacher-y.  In my opinion, I was far too rock and roll for apple appliquéd tote bags or sensible shoes.  I spent all year standing in what I had previously considered “sitting down shoes," attempting to keep head-to-toe black clothing chalk dust free, and maintaining complicated hair styles in a room where I had no control over the temperature or humidity.  Over time, I have made some changes, but I’ve found wiggle room inside the lines. Turns out, playing this role to the hilt actually allows me to be far more clever and whack-a-doo than I ever imagined.  I've found a way to be polished and professional with a sense of humor.  Clever, yet comfy.  I'm all buttoned up, but I'm one loop off.  Story of my life.  At the moment I like…
Boden Clothing  http://www.bodenusa.com/
Perhaps it’s my short stint immersed in British culture, but I absolutely adore  Boden.  All pieces are designed exclusively in London, England.  The style is completely “proper” sans the pesky “prim.”  I like to buy some matchy-matchy looks, and add a cardi or a shoe (okay two of those) in a contrasting color.  The quality of the Essential Scoop/Crew/ V-Neck is absolutely wonderful.  They hug a girl’s curves in all the right places without pinching around the tummy, and hold up to washing as well.  When wearing Boden I feel fresh and smart, but never as if I’m trying too hard.  The overall effect is feminine, polished, and fun.  They also sell menswear, kidswear, and even have a teen line. 
“ I love your shoes!”  When I hear this (at least weekly), a testimonial that will make you feel like you’ve gone to church simply pours out of my mouth:  “Honey, all of my shoes are Cole Haan. Yes, Lord!  They have this entire collection made with Nike Air Technology. Praise Jesus!  The wedges and pumps have some kind of tennis shoe gel inside of them that make you feel like you’re wearing kicks.  Some of the heels are 4 inches high and comfy as heck. The shoes are luxury quality and almost never wear out.  I have owned my favorite pair for nearly ten years and I have taken them in for a repair once, rather than attempting to replace them.  Yea, though I walk through the valley of stilettos,  I will fear no bunions!”  I almost never buy in-season as they have great off-season sales directly from Cole Haan’s own website.
I have recently discovered the quirky charm of this unique and precious jewelry.  Now, I have worn Betsey Johnson clothing in the past.  My friend Shaz introduced me to it in our cruise ship days.  Those days and that waistline are long gone for me, I’m afraid, but my ears are finding love a second time around!  Photos cannot do these pieces justice. The enamel inlay and rhinestone accents are special indeed. Although I order my Betsey Johnson earrings of Zappos.com, you might like to actually go into the mall to check out these beauties in person.  Macy’s, Nordstrom and, of course, Betsey Johnson shops carry Betsey Johnson accessories, but I recommend checking for availability and pricing on Zappos before you buy.