Fashion is artwork that we wear, day in and day out; the art that reveals and speaks
volumes about who we are without the
need of uttering so much as a word. This
is not to say that fashion is the most pertinent or critical method to
communicate who we are as people, but it is the most apparent layer of our being , so therefore has the most impact,
initially. Surely we are about more than the clothes we select to put on our backs, but isn't it true that an individual’s choice
of clothing, hair style, shoe choice, and even accessory choice all impact our
initial perception of him or her? And even more so, doesn't it truly allow us
to determine whether there is a commonality or a uniqueness that intrigues us
to learn more? Fashion is a treat for the senses; a visual melody of hues,
fabrics, silhouettes and textures.
A flowing, flowered print maxi dress softly communicates a
comfortable elegance, tastefulness and grace. A sequined black mini, paired
with a blazer and sling-backed pumps communicate business-ready with a fun and
flirty flare. A comfortable pair of faded and distressed denim, matched with an
over-sized blouse or sweater communicates comfortable, casual and ready for
coffee talks. What we select on a daily basis to clothe ourselves in, whether
we intend it or not, transmits a certain message to those around us.
It is for this reason that Portia Delaney, the main
protagonist and narrator of my upcoming novel, despises her work attire. A
medical office administrator is not left with much choice when it comes to
daily fashion selections. It boils down to one very boring and abrasive word, "scrubs".
Alright, outfit, yes
outfit. Well this is the most inexcusable tidbit of all. I’m here selecting an
outfit for a first day at a job where my only selection can be from an
assortment of various coloured scrubs, when I want to be making a selection
between Gucci and Versace. Lavender it
is, I suppose. With that disgruntled decision made, I reach for my terribly
ordinary lavender scrubs, quickly pull them on, jet into the bathroom and whisk
a brush through my hair while applying a pinch of foundation and bronzer,
because I’m too pale to even stand it. I add a bit of tinted lip gloss and I’m set
to go. Yes to go to my, err….ummm… bore of a career. Pay increase or not, just
the thought of getting compensated to give up my dreams on a daily basis makes
my stomach turn, and anxiety take over.
Portia initially allows herself to suffer from fashion
workday/weekender syndrome. Her career choice limits her ability to express
herself by way of her true sense of fashion and she’s left feeling drab and
masked throughout the entirety of the work week until Friday evening when she
truly feels inspired to dig out her designer duds.
As she becomes more committed to attaining her dream career
as a fashion designer and stylist to the stars her drive opens doors for her
career and the doors of her wardrobe. All the showstopper looks collected over
the years are finally strutted on the regular, and the true outer Portia is
able to make a full appearance as desired.
“Portia
Delaney, you look like you should be on the cover of one of those big time
fashion mags you’ll soon be styling for!” She remains completely fixated on me
and proceeds to accost me by running her hands all over the crinoline and
layers of my couture masterpiece. I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror and
admit that I would want to have my way with me too. The emerald green fit and
flare gown is so flattering to my bust and waistline with the scooped neckline
and the corset style bodice, I look like I’m straight out of Vanity Fair, the
William Makepace Thackery novel, not the magazine. My hair is now piled in
ringlets on my head and bedazzled with pearls. My exposed neck is adorned with
a rose gold chain, elegant yet understated with a tiny pearl encased diamond
dangling from its end. I’ve finished this ancient-made-new again look off with
my BCGB stilettos and an ear to ear fuchsia pink smile
The pieces and products in the everyday life of the
superlative and creatively freed Portia Delaney include the following:
Fierce footwear
Whether dazzling crowds with her designs or
finding herself as the one being dazzled by her handsome companion, Portia’s footwear
is always first rate and usually increases her 5 ft 6 inch frame by 3-4 inches.
Enormous shades
Let’s face it ladies, when we can get away
with it, going au natural in the eye makeup department is always a possibility
when you've got some large stylish frames to throw over your recently awakened and puffed up eyes.
Marc Jacobs tote
In the early chapters of the novel, it is
this signature piece that allows Portia to still feel some connection to her
fashionista tendencies during the gruelling 9-5 days at her scrub- overrun
office.
A little black dress (or 50)
I recently had the pleasure of attending the
opening of the Kate Spade store in the neighbourhood of Yorkville. The event
was hosted by ELLE Canada and in the words spoken so eloquently at the opening
by their Editor in chief, Ms. Noreen Flanagan, “Every girl should have at least
50 little black dresses in her closet”.
A comfy pair of loose fitting boyfriend style
jeans
For those days of jet setting, meeting up for
chats with the girls or having a quiet evening in, the boyfriend denim is a
must.
Vibrant shades of lip glosses and lipsticks
Red, fuchsia , maroon, violet, frosted pink,
whatever the colour, a well-defined lip is never a bad idea.
Beyond Portia and the world of trends, style and
fads, fashion promotes the opportunity to allow true individuality to shine if
we stay true to ourselves.
Happy reading!
Jessica Ashley
