High fashion may seem absurd until you fall in love with fine design, quality of fabrics, colors and the feel of a garment that sits well on your body. Added to that is the art of the tailor which has its own elegance of intricacy and is one of the historical arts that is a true talent.

Fashion tells the story of self…ourselves. The regard and awareness of who we are is reflected in our choices of what to wear. Notice how others dress and it helps knowing them better. For example, artists and creators usually show themselves through being individual in their clothing. Others have a need to show their integrity by way of the quality or condition of their clothing. Taking a look at fashion is not being judgmental or judging, it’s a fun way to know more about people.

I think of myself as a cultural anthropologist, I love this knowing more about what’s happening around me. Fashion in its true sense reflects trends, conventions, customs, all put to practice. The art of “high” fashion adds those ingredients that any fine art moves toward. There’s something so beautiful about a garment well designed, tailored or sewn with intricasies that showoff this talent.

What about color? You may notice that picking out certain colors to wear has an influence on the mood of both the wearer and the observer. We absorb and exude these shades and the feelings that go with them. I take that into consideration depending on where I’m going and for what purpose. For instance, big powerful city’s individuals wear a lot of black, the color that radiates power, a good color for security and competence. Farmer’s wear clothes designed for their work. Some jean wearers find it chic to have the knee fabric torn. What does that tell you? And what do other examples show you?

All this helps me to know more about today’s culture. I’m having fun with it. What about expense? Much of high fashion is costly. Sometimes having one costly outfit is worth having many at bargain prices. Expense is part of the equation of buying, of course. Today I think we find delight in finding just the right thing for a perceived great price. Splurge on that special high fashion piece. Or find it on sale. But do go get your charge out of buying into fashion, (and not heavily on your credit card), and try reflecting how you see yourself (and your budget).

Judy Allred