Hi, lovelies,
This morning I came across a Facebook invite that had an immediate impact.
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The PRETTY GIRLS ROCK “DRESSES” Challenge will start
Tuesday, March 1, 2011. Mission: 1. We will rock dresses and cute shoes (flats and heels) like our mothers & grandmothers at least THREE (3) times a week. 2. We will reject the impulse to throw on jeans, jogging suits (even the cute kind), & dress slacks. 3. Exchange our revelations and thoughts throughout this challenge. 4. Invite a Friend(s), Take Pics, & HAVE FUN. 5. Everyone is WELCOMED to participate. 6. Exceptions: Flattering Dress Suits with nice accessories are allowed. 7. If you have a blog share it with your followers. Let’s bring back: Pretty Girls Rock Dresses Spring/Summer 20-11 Challenge. |
So of course, I was (as usual) rummaging through my wide array of garments to figure out how to stay warm at 8 am without getting too hot at 3 pm. Usually, I just look for what I don’t have to iron, but because of this piece of awesome encouragement, I was reminded that it’s never too much to put on a dress. And of course, wearing a dress requires jewelry and makeup, too things that are usually optional or minimal in the morning. Just needed that one boost to give me the energy and motivation to do more that “throw something on”. I’ve already gotten a couple of compliments.

It’s actually pretty funny, though, because my mom loves to tell me when I’m at home that I need to “show em what I got” — i.e. pamper myself in the mornings and always look my best–even when I’m about to get on the highway. I overlook that last scenario, but I am getting a little better about not just throwing on some jeans and showing up at a meeting without even lip gloss. I still wear my jeans and slacks (I mean I never just look completely busted–but I don’t always look A+), but I may be a little more intentional in my jewelry and a little more concerned about my makeup–never overdoing it, but definitely ensuring that I bring out my natural beauty with a couple of highlights.
It’s also funny because some people think I overdress. Maybe it’s that extreme thing about me. I generally either do it big or not at all. I do adore getting dolled up, but it hasn’t been a daily thing for me.
When I think of my grandma Neva (y’all know I always have to get sentimental!), I think of her dresses and ultra yet subtle fabulousness. I literally can’t remember one time where I saw her not looking like a million bucks. From her clothing choices (some of which I wear now) to her hair styles to her jewelry and makeup, it was clear that she was a woman that took pride in herself and took care of herself. In that spirit, I do resolve (as I did last year as a 2011 goal) to wear skirts and dresses a little more often and to make sure I devote time to myself, pampering and primping to make myself feel and look like a million bucks.
Thanks to Dearroka Winfrey for reminding me that being feminine and giving my pretty some shine is never too much. Just in time for the spring!! Happy warm days!