I WOKE UP THIS SUNDAY AND, AS I HAVE ON MANY OCCASIONS WHEN I HAVE SOMEWHERE TO GO THAT REQUIRES EFFORT TO LOOK MY BEST, SAID WITH A BIG SIGH, “WHAT ON EARTH AM I GOING TO WEAR TO CHURCH AND BRUNCH TODAY?”
I usually start out my quest by answering some basic questions before I even hit the floor from my bed. What is the weather for the day? Can I squeak in another open-toe shoe before my much-needed pedicure? How much work is it going to take to tame my hair, and will I have to brush insta-color over my roots? Then, the most important question: How fat do I feel today?
The weather is different for me now that I am drudging through menopause like a long-suffering wounded animal. Now that it is spring, temperatures in the mid-60s to mid-70s are perfect for a peaceful day in my world of hot, cold, hot, cold, hot, cold. Layers and breezy lighter-weight fabrics are always a must. The weather also determines what shoes choices are available for that day. Strange enough, in spite of the hot flashes, my feet usually stay relatively cool or cold during the day. Once I go to bed at night, I usually have to throw one foot out of the covers as a cooling agent.
My hair condition upon waking can determine my fashion direction for that day. If I walk into the bathroom and turn on the light and I look like Mufasa from The Lion King, then I have some work to do in and out of the shower. I am not a professional, nor am I patient, but I am always determined not to look unkempt. A slicked-back bun with brush-on temporary highlights is always stylish and hot-flash friendly because your hair is off your neck. Skincare and makeup done.
Next, I stop flipping the light on and stepping into my closet full of apparel, shoes, and accessories that I say I don’t have enough of. I always start with shoes first. I never feel too fat for them. The problem, especially in the warmer temperatures, is how jacked-up they look between pedicures. The springtime is usually rainy and still a bit chilly from time to time, so I can still rock a pair of lighter-colored boots.
Now that I have decided on the boots (because it’s rainy), it’s time to choose an outfit. I am feeling fluffy and I want to be comfortable yet still a little fabulous. I go straight to loose clothing that will stylishly cover up my two-pack and a pooched mid-section. A-line and shift dresses are comfortable and easily dressed up or down and can work with my boots. Due to the rain and the lower temperatures, I decide on a lightweight camel poncho—I purchased them in two other colors because they get the style job done—white stretch jeans, camel-color knee-high boots, and my absolute favorite Tory Burch camel backpack. I don chunky silver and turquoise jewelry. Look complete. The whole process, from wake up to walk out the door, is about hour including hitting the snooze button twice!