Sylirael of The Painted Rogue recently suggested that I put together a dungeoneering outfit, one appropriate for pursuing villainous trolls through rock tunnels, and so on. I liked the idea, but couldn't quell my hesitation. After all, what do I know about dungeoneering? (Side note: my spell checker doesn't think "dungeoneering" is a word, and I'm like, "Come on, join the 10th century already.") Syl assured me, "If you think about it, going on quests that take you into the depths of thrift stores (which can be, let's face it, a little dark on occasion) to search for the hidden treasure concealed there, dodging the obstacles of other questers and trapped clothesracks (you know, the ones where everything falls off when you touch it) - I think you know more about the essence of dungeoneering than you give yourself credit for!"
Syl was absolutely right, and because of her I realized that I was making an assumption about myself that I resent when it comes from others. In fact, I was applying the same judgment that The Painted Rogue vigorously dispels! Being femme doesn't mean you can't also be fierce. Rough-'n'-tumble action may not be my personal first-choice activity, but at least I can bring a little glam into the cave. And a cold stare, to strike fear into the hearts of my enemies:
Oh, you're not fear-stricken yet? That's good, 'cause it means we aren't enemies!
Doing the awkward thing with my hands because I wanted to display the cape-y-ness of this garment.
Please note: This outfit was totally out of my comfort zone, and I know it's not "flattering" in the traditional sense. I'm sure it seems like I mention that a lot. I want people to realize that I am aware of how I'm presenting myself; it's intentional. I try to disrupt the conventions of what is considered attractive and/or aesthetically acceptable, to the extent that I can.
This. Is. AWESOME. It has everything you need - it looks comfortable, easy to move in, attractive and versatile! It even has layers (dungeon climates can be quite variable). I also love that you're challenging your personal sense of style and totally owning it :-)
ReplyDeleteBrava!
I'm so glad you like it!!! The only thing is that this might be too light for those dank, chilly dungeons, but things can heat up quickly if there's a dragon around the next corner. . .
DeleteI think this is VERY flattering, actually! You look great....feminine, assertive, strong and sexy. Your perception of unflattering must be very different from mine! xox
ReplyDeleteThank you, Aunt Nancy! I guess it is! Also, I didn't post the pictures that really made me cringe.
DeleteNever compromise on your uniqueness to conform to societal standards of beauty and fashion!!! You rock girl xxx
ReplyDeleteI try not to! Thanks, Jackie!
DeleteSonya,
ReplyDeleteI don't read fashion blogs or subscribe to fashion magazines. Other than for work, my fashion statement usually revolves around jeans and a t-shirt.
However, I am so GLAD I found your blog through UBC! I am looking forward to seeing your posts each day.
I absolutely love the word dungeoneering and I HATE when clothes fall off the rack around me anywhere! While this outfit caught me a little by surprise, I kind of like it!!!
I'm delighted to have connected with you as well! You're such a sweet and thoughtful person.
DeleteI also totally hate when the clothes fall off like that! So stressful. I think I feel the same way as you about this outfit, haha.
thank you for sharing. I especially appreciate that you are willing to model the outfit. I especially apprecaite the affirmation that we each have our own sense of style and comfort when it comes to clothes. Especially for me who is most comfy in jeans, 10 year old doc martens and a tshirt!
ReplyDelete10-year-old Doc Martens are actually VERY stylish these days! But I see what you're saying. Personally, I'm most comfortable in a longer-than-the-knee dress and some kind of slip-on flats! It's so true that we all have our own personal sense of what makes a good outfit. That's what I love about reading personal style blogs: there are so many different looks and perspectives! (Pun intended.)
DeleteI love your name for thrifting! Oh, I would definitely be intimidated by your fierce look! The outfit you are wearing looks cute on you! What a great outlook on fashion.
ReplyDeleteHahaha, thank you! I wish I was the one who came up with "dungeoneering" as a nickname for thrifting, but it was The Painted Rogue (http://thepaintedrogue.wordpress.com).
DeleteThis outfit reminds me of the Emma Peel/Avengers look you used to wear when you were in grade school. I liked it then, and I like it now. And I think it looks great on you. (You may need to look up who Emma Peel is, but do -- it's worth seeing her.)
ReplyDeleteHaha, well, thank you, Mom!
DeleteI love this outfit on you Sonya! It has such a cool and laid-back vibe to it...which is what I've been longing for lately. I had to laugh about the dungeouneering thing...when it comes to thrifting, that is so very true!
ReplyDeleteAin't it? "Dungeoneering" is my new favorite word. And thank you!
DeleteI love the blouse, the color is amazing and it is very cape-y :) But the top underneath is very good looking also.
ReplyDeleteAnd I think the outfit flatters you. The top and leggings combination is what I see on the streets every day here. And you need to have curves to pull it off.
Thank you, Joanna!
DeleteI like that you are willing to move out of your comfort zone! I've found myself doing that a lot lately as well.
ReplyDeleteI also love this outfit! Pretty much anything that looks like you are about to go on an adventure of some kind is right up my alley. ;)
High five! Someone or other said that "moving out of your comfort zone is the only way to expand it" and I guess that's probably true.
DeleteI don't think I actually went on an adventure--probably drank tea in my armchair, haha.
Thanks, Marlen! The float-y cape feeling was my favorite part.
ReplyDeleteComfort zone or not, that outfit is totally bad-ass. And you rock it.
ReplyDeleteThank you! The encouragement definitely helps.
DeletePinned the first image onto to my Outfits I love board. What a gorgeous look!
ReplyDeleteThat's probably the coolest description of thrifting I've ever heard! I think your outfit would be most appropriate for an adventure whether it's slaying dragons or climbing over wayward toys at a thrift store.
ReplyDeleteAmen to that, Hannah! I might go scramble around right now. . .
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