Read Surveys (By Author)
Alameda Woman
1. When do you feel at your most attractive?
I feel attractive when I am well-rested and have enough energy to engage with people. I like form-fitting and tailored clothing, especially men’s styles cut for women. As a tall, slender woman, I feel these styles are more flattering on me than other styles. I prefer darker colors, interesting graphic prints, and a reference or two to my love of music.
2. Do you notice women on the street? If so, what sort of women do you tend to notice or admire?
4381 Rettig Avenue
3. What are some things you admire about how other women present themselves?
I admire when women have a distinct style, even when it bears no resemblance to my style. I like boldness, I like the sense of joy that it conveys. I like inventiveness - “how did she even know to pair that with that?”
4. Was there a moment in your life when something “clicked” for you about fashion or dressing or make-up or hair? What? Why did it happen then, do you think?
A couple of things: 1) Get clothing tailored to fit and flatter. A piece of clothing that fits like a glove is a beautiful piece of clothing. 2) Lipstick can really take a look up a notch, all on its own. 3) Don’t get matronly haircuts.
5. What are some shopping rules you wouldn’t necessarily recommend to others but which you follow?
If it gives you joy just to look at it, get it - don’t worry about how often you’ll wear it. If you love it and it fits great, get it in more than one color.
6. What are some rules about dressing you follow, but you wouldn't necessarily recommend to others?
No ruffles ever.
7. What is the most transformative conversation you have ever had on the subject of fashion or style?
Probably any conversation at a thrift store - searching for and finding charm and character in pre-owned clothing.
8. Do you have a unified way of approaching your life, work, relationships, finances, chores, etc.? Please explain.
Lead with kindness and a sense of humor.
9. Are there any clothing (or related) items that you have in multiple? Why do you think you keep buying this thing?
Black boots. Western shirts. They work. I like how they look. They convey what I want to convey.
10. Have you ever successfully given someone a present of jewelry or clothing that you continue to feel good about?
Yes. I gave a friend a necklace with a boat paddle charm because we had taken up paddling together.
11. Is there any fashion trend you’ve refused to participate in and why?
Most! Shirts with no shoulder (but a full sleeve). Any type of very high heel. Just doesn’t speak to me. I would feel like I was wearing a costume. I am drawn to clsssic styles.
12. Can you say a bit about how your mother’s body and style has been passed down to you, or not?
My mother was curvy and I am not. Our styles were very different. I like minimalist fashion with clean lines and opt for pants. She had a more feminine style and liked skirts and sandals.
13. Have you stolen, borrowed or adapted any dressing ideas or actual items from friends or family?
I don’t remember who it came from but I “stole” the “cardigan as shirt” look. I love a form fitting cardigan.
14. Was there a point in your life when your style changed dramatically? What happened?
I think I always loved clothes, but we didn’t have any money growing up. When I became financially sel-sufficient, I started dressing for joy.
15. Is there anything political about the way you dress?
I don’t dress to be attractive to the opposite sex. This is not political, it’s just not a priority. But if someone told me I should be doing that, I guess it would be offensive to me!
16. Please describe your body.
Tall and thin.
17. Please describe your mind.
Prone to rumination, occasionally self-defeating, but I tend to understand most things.
18. Please describe your emotions.
Down a lot but always trying! Fits of joy!
19. What are you wearing on your body and face, and how is your hair done, right at this moment?
Plaid pants, red Pinball Museum t-shirt, black cardigan. Chin length inverted bob.
20. In what way is this stuff important, if at all?
We present ourselves to the world with intention. It starts a conversation. I don’t think clothes and style are everything, but they are not irrelevant. Many people find inspiration and creativity in these things.
21. With whom do you talk about clothes?
Friends (not all of them), husband (my best shopping partner).
22. How do institutions affect the way you dress?
My favorite brands, especially Prana, Boden, and Levi’s. I think music also has an influence.
23. Do you think you have taste or style? Which one is more important? What do these words mean to you?
I think style is very individual and taste is subjective. I think having one’s own style is more important than anyone else thinking you have taste.
24. Do you remember the biggest waste of money you ever made on an item of clothing?
I generally don’t spend that much and buy a lot of used clothes.