The Ten Fashion Commandments of Miss Moses
AN INTRODUCTION
I have been writing this journal and imparting my sartorial and somewhat tongue-in-chic wisdom for some years now, and the time has come at last to publish my Fashion Manifesto.
Ordinarily I scorn rules and decrees set out by arbiters of fashion: ‘you must own a little black dress, you must own a classic Burberry trench’ etc (click here for my thoughts on these and other fashion diktats) because I am by nature contrary. When I was around eight years old, and my older sister Serena informed me that I was just contrary for the sake of it, my immediate and indignant response was, chin raised defiantly, “I am not!” After I learned the actual meaning of the word ‘contrary’, I had to somewhat ruefully admit I was indeed, although I prefer not to shoot myself in the foot too often – it plays havoc with one’s ability to wear pretty shoes.
While I very much enjoy perusing fashion magazines and websites, I don’t buy into all those declarations of ‘five key items you must own this season’ and the like (quite possibly because I can’t afford to buy some of the more expensive ones). I do enjoy reading the fashion articles too as much as I like looking at the pictures, and I like to be aware of the trends and what is available in stores. But as for shopping and actually committing to the latest looks, I prefer to make my own mind up and make purchases that befit my own life and personal style.
these are universal rules that apply to all …
However, there are a few things I’ve learned over the years, and while they are just a little tongue-in-cheek, these are universal rules that apply to all (except perhaps some native tribal peoplegroups somewhere that don’t go in for shoes). Here they are. Print them out, stick ’em on the front of your wardrobe door, memorise them or take them with you when you next go shopping. Whatever it takes. Thou shalt have style.
THE TEN FASHION COMMANDMENTS
- Thou shalt know thy sartorial identity, understand thy figure and garb thyself accordingly
- Thou mayest look sexy, but thou shalt always remain classy
- Thou shalt have fun with accessories
- Thou shalt not own any ugly or dowdy raiment
- When in doubt, thou must throw it out
- Thou shalt shop with the precision of a military campaigner
- Thou shalt throw away worn out shoes when they art beyond redemption
- Launder thy garments respectfully and they wilt serve thee long
- Thou shalt not be afraid of colour, for life is short, and —
- Thou shalt not wear all black all the time, for thou art not an Italian widow.
Each week I’ll take one of these tenets and discuss them in greater detail. The text will be accompanied by informative and instructional illustrations that will help and guide you along your stylish path to sartorial glory.
Amen.