If Your Clothes Could Talk…

Inspired by a recent discussion by L.L. Bean’s creative director Alex Carleton as well as the Linda Grant exclusive q&a and reading of her latest book, The Thoughtful Dresser, I started to think about my obsession with my clothing/accessories possessions, and why it’s so hard for me to purge my closets and get rid of things. As part of the Sorrelli earrings giveaway, I asked you about your most sentimental jewelry items, and am really touched by the responses. I definitely attach a strong sentimental element to items, and probably won’t be able to shed any of the items in the pics below: this was taken a few weeks ago while I was in Italy, on my birthday, and I went to the beaches at Lido (an island about 30 minutes from Venice) with my two close friends. The sun was shining, it was a fantastic day, as was my trip overall (and I bought that hat on my bday). I digress, but basically was thinking of the idea that every item you own, in some sense holds memories, good and bad. Even that top I got from Forever 21 was purchased to wear during New York Fashion Week, or that silk purple dress, rarely taken from the back of the closet, was worn several years back at one of my first weddings amongst my grade school friends. If your clothes could talk, what would they tell you? Think about all the experiences they’ve had, things they have ‘witnessed’ – from ordinary, mundane events like riding the subway to fabulous parties, and somber times like consoling upset friends. It’s interesting to think about the ‘phantom hands’ — people that you don’t know, probably in a far off location, that were responsible for manufacturing the fibers, yarns, fabric, and cutting the pieces, sewing them together, finishing them, tagging, shipping, placing the items on a sales rack…people that you will never meet and never know, yet they are responsible for the end result of your favorite shirt, pants, dress, bag etc. I absolutely love fashion, and am completely absorbed and obsessed with it on many levels, but it’s that personal, human connection, the subconscious reasoning as to why we like, wear, and keep certain things, is what is truly fascinating. What do you think? Got some items from your closet that you can share with us?

Never getting rid of: hat (bought in Venice, about $12), sunglasses (DVF w/ prescription lenses), neclace (Avon) and dress (Seed Organic)

At high school reunion with friends and co-organizers Maria & Sam: was an amazing night, will definitely always think of that See by Chloe dress with fondness

My best friend's wedding: will probably never wear that dress again, but it's my best friend's wedding so...I'll keep it!