I like different.
I like innovative.
I’m a fan of the quirky, the eccentric, the expression of individuality.
In Your Face?
Not so much, but at certain stages in life we all have identity issues, something to prove to ourselves (or others), and we assert our individuality in various ways – occasionally more stridently than we realize.
We dress outrageously. We pierce, we tattoo, we shred, we embellish.
We speak in ways intended to obfuscate or outright confuse. We speak in ways intended to deflect. Sometimes we speak rudely – and I find nothing admirable in that, though recognize we may unintentionally get “in your face” when we feel passionately or indignantly about a subject.
Individual Expression, Teenage Style
I marvel at the diversity of ways in which our preteens and adolescents celebrate their burgeoning individuality via attire. By way of example, one of my sons went through a suspender phase and a tie-dye phase.
And how could I forget the argyle phase which endeared him to me forever, bringing back memories of my very own dapper dad?
My quirky kid (now 20) is the first to admit he still likes (and wears) tie-dye, but you’re more apt to see him in jeans and a t-shirt or sweater these days.
My younger has recently taken to wearing a souvenir cap. I admit, it’s very cute on him and he associates it with an adventurous (albeit muddy) music festival abroad. He is, in his own way, expressing his individuality.
In your face? Hardly. But then even if it were, it would be typical teen testing behavior, wouldn’t it?
Midlife Fashion Statements, Single Style
In the first few years following divorce, newly single, I was rediscovering myself in a variety of ways. Clothing played a role, particularly when the Divorce Diet dropped me to a startling (and unhealthy) size zero!
I eventually gained back a few pounds (much better!), but I nonetheless found myself with more options and a pressing need to feel good about myself and how I looked – as a single woman.
Naturally, there was French lingerie involved. (You didn’t really expect Fruit of the Loom, did you?)
And yes, a few shoes.
I admit to style selections that were wilder, brighter, and more audacious than during marriage. And I loved every minute of it!
Of course, I didn’t stray too far afield, as adult common sense generally prevails, and one doesn’t want to scare off any potential paramours! But now? A decade later? A different story?
I still adore fashion, I indulge when I can (and according to my budget), I dress as I please (regardless of age bias), and as appropriate to the situation. I have no need for anything that is “in your face” – because of comfort with who I am.
- Your approach to individuality?
- Your wilder fashion moments?
- Your tolerance for In Your Face behaviors and styles?
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It’s just all natural me, from top of my head to soles of my feet (not even any broken or mended parts, excepting the usual dental work). I’m fashion irrelevant, but will accommodate my wife within reason. Remember, naked is better (and more honest). Jewelry gets in the way of close relationships — the lady with the belly-button ring would occasionally get pulled on it.
On the other hand, costume can be fun, and I and my children have quite enjoyed that at times and been sufficiently over the top. Too bad this site doesn’t take pictures. I have a great series entitled Viking Woman (Fran, of course).
Fran as Viking Woman! I’d love to see that, Paul… I happen to have a close personal relationship with a Viking. Several, in fact. (Seriously. Truth is stranger than fiction, no?) And you crack me up, Mr. Natural From the Top of Your Head to the Soles of Your Feet! You are the epitome of “individual,” and I mean that in the best possible way!
😉
I haven’t tattooed or shredded (don’t even know what shredding is) but I’ve been tempted for a while now to add a pink streak to my hair. Even asked my hairdresser but she doesn’t have pink in her palette. I’m always a bit surprised on beach vacations and/or cruises at the conservative looking women of around my age who have tattoos that show up poolside. I love the surprise of it.
Last year, for my birthday, I put some subtle feathers in my hair. Then a week later, I put a few colorful ones in for a couple of days. I take so few risks, that I had some fun with my hair. I knew it was temporary. I’ve rarely been an “in your face” person when it comes to style.
No Viking attire in the plans? 😉
In high school, I had red hair for a bit, purple too, but it was all temporary. As were all tattoos. And fancy nails – both done at home and twice done fancy and long at a salon. I did get my ear cartilage pierced, but boy was that a mistake. It never healed.
I think fashion for fun is great. Anything to offend, not so much.
Now, if I stick out it’s my lack of fashion and styling.
I believe thinking out of the box when it comes to fashion is great way to spice up a look. As long as it is classy and appropriate.