The Embroidered Blouse I’ve Never Worn in Public
I would consider myself a collector. My collection is clothing and shoes. In most cases, I actually allow my collection to see the light of day: I wear my things.
But in some cases, I am so mesmerized by the item – so delighted – that I can’t imagine actually putting it on my body. Often, it’s because the item doesn’t actually match my typical aesthetic. Sometimes the fabric is delicate, or high maintenance, or scratchy. Other times, it’s because it doesn’t feel comfortable or look good on me, but it’s still beautiful to behold.
This blouse, which was hand embroidered with an utterly delightful mountain range across the chest and a rainbow and sun on the points of the collar, was one of the last things I found at the thrift shop I worked at before I quit to start school. For that reason, in addition to being a bit outside my normal aesthetic, it also holds nostalgic value.
I have a soft spot for embroidered details, but it can be very expensive since the process is high skilled and time-consuming for the craftsperson. I was fortunate to get my hands on this one for something like $5.00. It was grubby when I got it, but after a couple washes, it looks and feels great. I hope that one day it will get a chance to go outside.
Leah Wise is the founder of StyleWise Blog. She has been writing, speaking, and consulting on sustainable fashion, the fair trade and secondhand supply chain, and digital marketing for over ten years. An Episcopal priest, Leah holds a B.A. in Religion from Florida State University and an M.Div. from Yale Divinity School. When not working, you can find her looking for treasures at the thrift store.
Susan
Tuesday 19th of May 2020
Such a wonderful shirt!!
Emily King
Monday 18th of May 2020
It is absolutely lovely!!