"Several blocks later, I came across a standard, uniformed version of the “New York power woman”: black flats, black dress, black overcoat, black headband. And as much as I tried to resist this woman’s funereal image, I felt myself drawn to her apparent sadness and fear. Her costuming was a shield; one felt that she didn’t want to be mistaken for a person, let alone a woman." - Hilton Als, on the gamut of New Yorkers' outfits on an incredibly warm day in early January, in The New Yorker.
Jan 21, 2008 @ 9:28am
posted by nadarine
Jan 21, 2008 12:32PM
... or maybe, she woke up late and just put on a bunch of neutral basics. Really, "funereal"?
I can't believe that someone would STILL assume that my largely-black wardrobe is a "shield", or my way of projecting despair onto the world. I happen to look very good in black, and it's a lifesaver for getting out the door quickly when you don't need to worry about Pattern A clashing with Color B , which doesn't complement your Color C jacket. Sheesh.
posted by bighugforfashion
Jan 21, 2008 3:04PM
I subconsciouslly dress in all black because most clothing looks best in black. When I see others dressed in all black, it doesn't look like they are sheilding themselves. In fact I think the direct opposite. You have to let your style and personality show in the details rather than in the color.
An all black outfit that oozes personality is wonderful in my opinion.
So for the author to say she was fearful and sad I have to ask: What the heck was this lady wearing?
posted by aninnka
Jan 21, 2008 11:21PM
I'm always scared of looking "funereal" when I dress all black, but seriously, that was a very exaggerated point of view.
posted by GQDetails8604
Jan 21, 2008 12:28PM
Is this how people really see the the standard black uniform? I Love my black leather jacket, black button up, clean jeans, and black boots. I dont care... it's the easiest winter day look for anybody to pull off. I LIVE BY IT