During the pandemic, I escalated my online shopping to items I had never thought I would purchase sight unseen. There is an element of trust I typically need when shopping for more personal items. I need to feel the fabric. See the cut. Check the tailoring. Mostly, I have to assess if the fit would be right for my post-pandemic shape.
Prior to Covid, I could look at a garment and know instinctively if it would fit.
I don’t have the same confidence today. With all the stretch and comfy fabrics
I lived in during isolation, and the basic lack of exercise, I look to things that are a bit more forgiving.
But more than this, while my body is aging, my mind is still stuck in the styles, colours and shapes I loved in yesteryear. I have always loved the classic, timeless styles. I look best in a suit. (In case you are wondering, not a bathing suit) Unfortunately it is difficult to pull off a tailored look while wearing sweat pants.
Now there is also the question of what is appropriate for a woman my age. I still see myself as the younger, albeit larger, version of myself. I know, however, that the clothes I wore years before just won’t cut it. (Pardon the pun) Beyond capris or Bermuda shorts, I always liked to wear a shorter version for more casual days. Not exceedingly short, the ones I wear are cute. As I write the word, I am already rethinking my choice. At my age I don’t think the characterization of my clothing should ever be described as cute. These shorts have got to go. Fortunately golf clothes are conservative and classic. The longer shorts and collared shirts suit me and my body just fine.
Recently I purchased leather shoes with a higher heel. They can best be described as a classic pump. I stuffed my feet in them when I wore a dress to a morning meeting. I couldn’t blame the fit on the usual swelling of the day or account for the foot pain except to say my baby toe could not find a place to rest in comfort. And then I wondered, should a woman my age try to wear this style? I mean I could barely walk down my stairs at home. No, I figure If you have to carry another more comfortable shoe in case you can’t tolerate the ones you have on, wear the second more sensible pair from the beginning. My brand new leather pumps have got to go.
I have also moved to a more trendy small cross-over bag. Those who know me also know that I usually carry a suitcase style purse. Although I agree
I don’t have to worry about losing it as it is permanently around my neck, I also have to organize and re-organize it so that the wallet, keys and so on are in their appropriate place. The cashiers look at the “old lady” with wonder as I have to pry (and a crowbar would be useful here) my wallet out of the bag before I can pay for my purchase. Oh, and did I say it is bright orange? I mean how could I possibly lose it? Okay I admit I did leave it behind one day at a dinner party. Not sure how but I do remember the sangria was really good. My orange cross-over bag has got to go.
As I am mentally cleaning my closet, I stop in fear that I will be left with sweats or leggings (so I can change it up), oversized shirts, a housecoat and fuzzy slippers. Instantly I realize that this has been the majority of my “wearables” for about a year and a half. While they are comfortable, they really have worn their welcome. These too have got to go.
So now I am left with the dilemma of what a woman my age, who spends lots of time at home or in a casual atmosphere, that carries only lipstick (for what reason I will never understand) and hopes that the post pandemic exercise regime will at least strengthen and perhaps tighten the body that has taken on emotional spread. This, and the snacks, must stop for the transformation to happen. I begrudgingly realize that one of my most favourite items will have to be left behind. Sadly, the potato chips have got to go. Well…maybe. Happy Fall everyone.
