Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Cotton Shock: My First American Fashion Experience
Well for all those who didn't know,I recently relocated to the United States from Switzerland in order to attend my new university, Boston University in Massachussetts. I love it and Boston très bien, and have delved whole-heartedly and open-mindedlyinto making the best of this experience. That being said, there are some very intriguing things that I have noticed since I got here and I feel that it is my duty to share them with you, over the next couple of weeks, starting with the story of my first American fashion experience, that I have so rightly called cotton shock and you shall soon see why.
It has been about 8 years since I last lived in or visited the United States and fashion-wise, not much has changed really, from what I can remember of it. For some reason, despite all the hype around European fashion here, I never really believed that there was a great difference between American and European fashion and thought that my predominantly Swiss wardrobe would fit in fine. But, strange things kept happening whenever I walked out of my room each morning. Some days, it would just be a random stranger (male or female) complimenting my outfit. But there were some other more interesting occurences.
For example, on one cold and blustery, rainy day as I returned to my dormitory, this random guy started talking to me about how he was in the army and was going back in two days on an assignment, and how he was almost run over by a car. Then he asked me where I was from, and told me I was very beautiful and very well dressed. I was quite stunned, but recovered quickly and thanked him. He explained that he wasn't trying to pick me up but that he was curious about my origin because I did not look American. Several other similar events where I had been mistaken for Haitian, or Carribean, had happened and when I went for dinner that night with my (American) roommate and her friend, I asked her why I was so obviously not from around here. She then explained that partially it was my personal style, which I agree is quite out there, but that it was mostly because most of my clothes are not a 100% cotton. Apparently, most American clothes are made solely out of cotton and so therefore have the same general look. But I stuck out because most of my clothes where not cotton, and quite a few of them had bold floral or funky prints on the fabric.
This intrigued me greatly and led me to ponder this question: Would I americanize my wardrobe in order to fit in or would I rather continue to flaunt my personal style and hunt down pieces that fit in with it, despite the attention it gets me? Basically, would I rather blend in or stand out? I wouldn't be me if I didn't choose the latter. I have to remain true to myself. I'm different and proud of it! And I hope you all have the courage to remain true to yourselves too dearest devotees. Because being you makes you happy.
Bottom Picture from: kellymallory; top picture from: justingaynorLove you all and Stay inspired,
P.S. So let me know what you think. Have you ever faced a situation in which you have to make an effort to remain who you are despite the fact it makes you stand out? Do you have a distinct personal style that truly represents you and that you wouldn't let go of no matter what? And have you experienced culture shock, style wise or not ? Feel free to let me know in the comments below and please follow this blog if you liked this post.
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3 comments:
Darling, I am in high school. Which is probally the most judgemental place in the entire world. Nobody dresses like me and my boots with wrap dresses and curly hair. It is jeans, hoodies, and UGG boots. I don't even own a hoodie.
But the funny thing is, I have been complimented on my personal style of outfit EVERY SINGLE DAY since going back to school. I think people like seeing something different. People always say I like your scarf, cute dress, your hair looks awesome.
Rock on being who you are!
Yeah Luinae! I knew we were kindred spirits! That right there is soooo me! I only recently got my first hoodie and I swear you wouldnt know it was a hoodie if you looked at it cos its got this very classy vibe emanating from it. I got it from Macy's no less and I'll send you pics if you want.
And yeah, I think everyone can agree on the whole judgemental high school thing. Kudos on being able to stand against the grain girl!
I guess this post is super old, but I saw it on the side of you blog and loved it! I agree with Luinae, high school is so judgemental. One day I wore blue tights (not even that crazy, I know.) While the girls complimented me, the "mature" high school boys just said I looked like someone from Avatar. Ha. I know this is kinda late to say, but don't stop rocking your style!
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