Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Slacker, in many ways

Boy have I been slacking. I go out of town for six days, I barely post, I barely pay attention to anything going on at home (which explains my surprise to the snow here today) and I slack on reading other blogs, too. Anyone care to update me?

In my travels, I've also noticed that I am a slacker in the dress-up department, too. Specifically, when I'm traveling. I like jeans and flipflops and sweatshirts but, my oh my, that is not the norm. People dress so trendily (did I make up a word?) when boarding planes these days. They have the matching purse and tote, shoes and accessories, perfectly made up hair and makeup. It's totally impressive and it will totally never be me.

I was feeling all insecure about this yesterday, on a layover in Dallas. It's true, things are bigger in Texas and, in this case, bigger in the form of fancy travel gear. I was really feeling like a scrub, wishing I'd worn boots instead of maryjanes and a sweater instead of my sweatshirt. And don't even get me started on my hair. I'll never be one of those girls that can just tie it in a knot at the back of her head and look like I just stepped out of a catalog. Don't get me wrong, I'm all about the simple but on me, that's just how it looks, simple. Maybe I need highlights again? Hmm.

Anyway, as I made my way through the concourses from one gate to the other, I thought about my travel attire. Maybe I needed to put a little more effort into it. Maybe I should have worn something else and chosen to bring my leather tote rather than the vinyl one? Who needs comfort anyway? But as I arrived at the gate for my Denver-bound flight, I looked around. There it was: jeans, fleece, knit caps, flip flops, Merrels and clogs... I was with my people, and we were going home.

I may not fit in everywhere, but at least I fit in somewhere.

12 comments:

Runner Girl FL said...

FL is notoriously casual. I go up north, and dress up and find that I'm still dressed down from everyone else. I'm ok with that, I think I would like CO.

Backofpack said...

You've always got a home here in the PNW. I don't know if it's a real fashion term or not, but around here we call it "Northwest Casual". Jeans or maybe khakis, fleece vest, shirt, sweatshirts, sweaters, clogs, birkenstocks, boots, whatever! Bags and backpacks, seldom leather. Lots of denim stuff. Come on over!

I totally think travel is about comfort. I'd never dress up for a plane ride - for that matter I hardly ever dress up at all!

Sizzle said...

i love the last line of this. so true! and good you found your place. :)

skinnylittleblonde said...

LOL, I have been slacking in the virtual world too! That's what happens sometimes...sometimes to relax & sometimes cuz we are busy in the real world.
i guess i slack in the clothes dep't area...stretch blue jeans & tee's are my favorite...outside of my flannel pj's. I don't know why some people get dressed up for the airport, but I have noticed it.
peace to you this busy holiday season!

anne said...

I remember when we use to DRESS for the planes - that was before you had to get there two hours early, take off your shoes, and wait in long lines. It is just not feasible anymore.

adam said...

I couldn't live without NW casual. When I travel, I am always surprised by how many people dress so much more formally. In Chile and Argentina, it seems like every one is well-dressed when in the city.

Unknown said...

I'll dress up when flying becomes fun... Yeah, and that'll happen!

However, I am flying on Saturday and will be wearing a suit and tie... I am going straight from the airport to a memorial. So I guess I will be one of those fancy travelers - just not by choice.

Anonymous said...

Glad to have you back.
BTW I always go super casual on the plane - comfort is key especially when you are stuck in a small seat.

Anonymous said...

I must admit that I'm ridiculous about my matching luggage. It's a sickness, I know. I'm also the girl who makes sure there's enough time to blow dry and style her hair because it's cut just so pulling it up looks craptastic. That being said, I'd be right there in my comfy jeans, sweatshirt, and flip-flops. Flying in uncomfortable clothes is the most miserable thing ever! I'm glad you're back! :)

Anonymous said...

We Houstonians (I'm calling myself that now) think those folks up in Dallas are quite snooty and way too full of themselves.

Down here in H-town, it's all about the jeans and flip flops.

Danielle said...

I don't think I ever pay attention to what people are wearing on planes...Other than obvious business travelers though, I don't think I've noticed anyone dressed real well (and funny thing is a lot of the times I've heard people talking that look the least best dressed and they have that TX drawl, must not be from Dallas), I typically go jeans and t-shirt/sweatshirt and tennis shoes or slip ons if its warm enough...and sometimes running pants, whatever is most comfy and hair is almost always in a ponytail cause I refuse to get dolled up to sit in a dry tube for hours on end!!

Ginger Breadman said...

You gotta do what makes you feel good. What would be the point in doing up the clothes, hair, bags, etc, when it wouldn't really make you feel good about fitting in, but make you uncomfortable and not feeling like yourself? Some people like dressing up, and that makes them feel good. Remember the other end of the spectrum; there are also those who live in comfortable clothes, sleep in them, and can get away with wearing them again the next day . .