“No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up.” — Regina Brett
I remember in high school, the only time we wore dresses was if at least one other friend agreed to wear a dress — sort of a dress solidarity movement — and then we walked around feeling self-conscious while our classmates called out things like, “Is it dress up day?” Fast forward many years later, and I realized I’m still sometimes hesitant to wear a dress, unless the occasion calls for it. But what happens when you wear a dress for absolutely no good reason — and the only “occasion” is going to the grocery?
Last week I decided to put that question to the test. It was blazing hot and ridiculously humid in Southern Indiana so the thought of a cool, comfortable, dress was quite pleasant. But would I just be calling unwanted attention to myself when I strolled into the gas station or Walmart wearing a dress when everyone else would more than likely be sporting leggings, cutoff shorts, or pajama pants? And then I asked myself, “Do I really care if wearing a dress makes me stand out?” Thus began the “Week of Dresses Experiment” which I consider to be quite successful and insightful. Here are a few observations:
- Wearing a dress is effortless! Other than deciding which shoes to wear, and how to accessorize, there’s not a lot to think about other than pulling that dress over your head and heading out the door!
- Loose dresses can really keep you cool on a hot day — and they hide imperfections! The dresses I wore during my challenge were light, airy, and not clingy. I mean, who wants to think about sucking in their stomach when they’re trying to stay comfortable?
- Tank/tee dresses don’t go out of style. A basic dress is a basic dress and as long as it doesn’t have crazy embellishments, can maintain a presence in your closet for quite some time. (I’ve had a few of my dresses for years and they still look great!)
- They make you feel put-together and stylish. There’s something about wearing a dress that comes with an air of confidence. You know you look good — and everyone else knows it too!
- They’re comfortable — and offer easy access in the bathroom. 😬 I’m not going to elaborate here but if you’ve worn a dress in the summer with no hose or tights, you know that restroom visits are easy-peasy!
- Dresses take casual style up a notch — I wore my dresses to the grocery, Target, lunch appointments, picking up my grandchildren at day care — and I kinda liked knowing that at most of these places, I was the best dressed, without being over the top.
Yes, you will be noticed, but that’s OK — wearing a dress attracts attention in a good way! 💁♀️
Watch my video on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook to see my “Week of Dresses Experiment.” You can also find a link for the dresses in my social media profile. 👗
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