virginiawoolf Archives

Why Clothes, In the Words Of Virginia Woolf

24 August, 2022

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Can we drive change through fashion?

Some people may wonder why clothes, preciseley, why clothes matter, and whether they can be a tool for promoting change. We can find a brilliant response in Virginia Woolf’s words. Here is a quote from Orlando:

“Vain trifles as they seem, clothes have, they say, more important offices than to merely keep us warm. They change our view of the world and the world’s view of us.”
Virginia Woolf

Some authors are like anchors, offering us a steady place to hold onto in the midst of life’s turbulence. Their words provide deeply beautiful insights that resonate with us on a personal level. Through their significant perspectives, they help us not only better understand the world around us, but also ourselves—our values, our emotions, and our place in the broader tapestry of life. These authors offer guidance, wisdom, and comfort, serving as timeless companions on our journey of self-discovery.

More about clothes

Clothes change people’s perceptions of us. Indeed, they are part of our non-verbal language. So through them, we express our personality and our worldview. At the same time, clothes change our view of the world–the influence is mutual. So, by making specific choices, we can have an impact. And not only on our style and image, meaning on what people can see of us at first glance. But also regarding our consciousness, so on a more profound level affirming who we are and what kind of world we want.

In that sense, we can do a lot to change. In fact, we aren’t passive consumers but active thinkers, and by making better choices, we change the world.

So, do you wonder why clothes? And if clothes can be a tool of change? We believe they can, because we don’t just dress to enhance our image and boost self-confidence. But by making thoughtful choices about the garments we choose to wear, we show that we care for people and the planet. Therefore, our thoughts, words and style align with our actions.

In other words, through style we contribute to change for the better.

Why Clothes, In the Words Of Virginia Woolf Read More »

Women & Society’s Standards

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Navigating expectations and empowerment in today’s world

A point on women & society’s standards is always necessary considering the current discussions and comments we hear. Indeed, we find it difficult to identify with women presented in the media. But also, with women presented by women themselves. As if feminism had never existed.

“I make clothes for a woman who is not swayed by what her husband thinks”
Rei Kawakubo

This powerful Rei Kawakubo quote, a thought we completely embrace and promote, opens up a window on society’s standards, personal growth, self-awareness, and perhaps new feminism.

Women, fashion and expectations

The clothes we wear are the expression of our personality, this is undeniable. If we analyse the type of clothes that easily reach a large audience, we could portray a clear image of a woman stuck in the Fifties. A woman who must have a hold on men, and most of all, who must make it crystal clear, totally visible. So, this statement translates into second-skin dresses, wide necklines, and super short hemlines.

In fact, this is what society has long expected from women, what women are educated to, and what centuries of patriarchal brainwashing have instilled in them. And, eventually, it seems this is what women want, too, well adapted to a man-shaped society. Just replace grace with rudeness, and we jump into our modern times, finding ourselves in today’s world.

There’s always the same submissiveness, asking for permission to buy something or buying an item only upon the husband’s approval.

Centuries of evolution from Virginia Woolf, passing through feminism and all a woman can aspire is being an accessory of a man.

On the contrary, we embrace a new sensibility away from the dominant models. Femininity free from conventions and stereotypes. Assertive, not aggressive. Self-aware, or at least opening the eyes, and beginning the process of personal growth.

Her style would be different.
We are different.
Ready to express a new vision of who we are.