Preparing for a Different Normal

Notice to those receiving email notices from this blog: In July 2021, Blogger is discontinuing this service. I have been trying to work this "feed" service thing out but have not yet been successful. Presently I can't even access who is on my email service list so I can't contact you directly. You will have to either bookmark this blog address or simply visit me periodically to see what I have written lately. I'll be working on it but I can't make any promises. Thanks for your patience and understanding. And now to my post, something I have a relative amount of control over . . .

no thanks to pandemics

noteworthy that we are moving toward a new normal

need for more people to be vaccinated

nice that we are on the road again 

2020-21 has been an unsettling year. We have been given the opportunity to experience and live through a truly global event. The pandemic affected everyone on this planet. Through science and compliance with vaccination protocol, we will overcome this hurdle. Those who are choosing not to vaccinate are hindering humankind's general well-being. Think of polio and if you are too young to have remembered standing in line in elementary school for the polio vaccine, do some research. Trust science. I am alive today because insulin was invented.  OK, enough of that rant, this is a blog about clothing after all.

That being said, Covid-19 has affected what we consider "normal". It's time to prepare for a different normal. I don't believe we can resume "back to normal" or what was once practised as "normal". We are or at least should be much more aware of the correlation between basic hygiene and health, and hopefully, be more conscious of spreading a virus. How many of us didn't hesitate going to work, sniffling, sneezing and coughing with "just a cold" or "the beginnings of the more common flu" in the past? Continuing to wear masks, particularly if suffering from the common cold or flu, makes perfect sense.

As we move toward the normalcy we all want, my husband and I hope to be spending time in France this year. When we go, it will only be for three months since we do not want to deal with the onerous process of getting a long-stay visa. Yes, Canadians need a visa if they are staying longer than three months. Many think, both in Canada and in France, that because of Canada's historic relationship with France we don't. We do. And the fines imposed, if you are detected staying longer than you should, are significant. 

But back to preparing for my trip. I still cannot travel with only a carry-on because of all the non-clothing items I take. Here are some of the things I need to take or have taken when staying away for the long haul.

Protein Powder and Supplements: All the protein powders in France (or so I have found) contain sucralose and I have chosen not to use any products using this artificial sweetener. Most of the ones you buy in Canada do not contain this product anymore. I guess Canadian rats show different results in scientific analysis than French ones. So if you use protein powders in smoothies, it's preferable to bring it from home. I also find their prices for protein powders anywhere from twice to three times as expensive.

Many companies offer a single-use packet, which is convenient for short-term travel. Also, check to see if the country you are visiting allows you to bring in this product or supplements generally. Several years ago, a friend had all hers confiscated when entering Australia. Actually, any food item is suspect and you are lucky if they simply take it away and don't fine you. An apple or an orange is not worth $300.00.

Medication: I'm a diabetic and have gotten into the habit of taking all my medication and supplies for the time I will be away. Yes, of course, I can buy any of the above in France, but my Canadian health insurance will not cover it, nor will medical travel insurance because my diabetes is a pre-existing condition. It makes economic sense to take what I need.

My supplies for 4 to 6 months take a fair amount of space. As well the Freestyle Libre monitor calculates blood sugar levels in different calibrations depending on which country you live in. I have purchased one in France but I'm not accustomed to reading 3 digit numbers since I'm used to average readings in single digits.

I try not to take many clothes because I have a summer wardrobe in France, which is probably better than what I have in Canada.

I have already written about a more extensive list of clothing to take on a trip to Europe in the fall (underwear excluded) — August to October Trip to France.

This year I'll be wearing the following on the aeroplane:

• a mask

• a pair of skinny leg Buffalo blue jeans — I don't wear white jeans when I know I have to wear the same clothing for 24 hours. 
• my seersucker Smythe plaid blazer that goes great with jeans. I got this photo from lyst.com a while back but it's no longer in their inventory.

• a blue merino long sleeve lightweight wool top (planes are often cold)

• my white Keds

In my carry-on:

• my three-month supply of diabetic supplies and medication. Medications should always be with you and not packed in your checked luggage owing to temperature fluctuations and most importantly, the possibility of loss.
• over-the-counter decongestant tablets or nasal spray for take-off and landing (if you have trouble with your ears in these situations) and eye drops for dry eyes.
• my journal and two pens
• my laptop and European plug-in converter
• packaged snack foods (in case my blood sugars start dropping and I need something quickly)
• my 100% moderate weight cotton beige & white shawl (a recent acquisition) or my camel-coloured cashmere shawl (I always need more than the little blanket you get on overnight trips when flying Economy)
• an oversized t-shirt and lightweight cotton pants or shorts (respectable substitute for pyjamas) to change into when taking an overnight flight
• basic toiletries including moisturizer, lip balm, hand-sanitizer wipes, toothpaste, and toothbrush. I have taken more in the past but never seem to use it.
• an extra pair of glasses

This year, I might be packing the following favourites in my checked luggage:

• my LBD (little black dress). I've carried it back and forth over the pond for years. Maybe it's time to get a second one.
• my favourite scarves and signature necklaces. Scarves don't weigh much so I can rationalize taking a few but as for the necklaces, I can always make another one or two or three while I'm there.
• my Burberry white tailored shirt
• dressy black flats
• beige heels

As well as . . .  two items I will take and leave there — a white denim skirt and white flip flops

Everything else in our check-in luggage will be items for the pantry and the house along with favourite toiletries that can stay there. 

I always take photographs of the contents of our check-in bags along with an itemized list. This is important, particularly if you are a designer type of guy or gal. You never know, your bag could be the lost one and this way, any insurance claim you make can be substantiated.

With this plan, there will be plenty of room on our return trip for wine and the clothing and shoes I buy there.

The Mask as a New Accessory

Necessary

We're fully vaccinated — places to go, people to see. But hold on, not so fast. 

Even though we are fully vaccinated and many of our friends have had their first shots, we're still very conscious that the virus does not discriminate and variants are still a challenge. This of course means that many of the habits we have started and re-inforced over the past year and a half need to continue — a new normal.

I appreciate the precautions taken in the grocery stores such as disinfecting carts, providing antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer, and plexiglass shields for the masked workers. All of the above needs to be continued for the workers' and our safety. As well, after going out for lunch in a 50% capacity restaurant, I rather liked not being an arm's length away from the next table. Lunch was a beautiful experience on the riverbank with a calm atmosphere and a sparsely occupied space, even though the place was full.

When it comes to personal habits, are people going to stop washing their hands and taking precautions? Of course not, at least I hope not. It's just good basic hygiene. This past winter no one around me had a cold or the usual run-of-the-mill flu. In the past, when one person in the house had a cold or the flu, everyone eventually got it. Not this past winter. When my guests come to my house I'll still provide them with antibacterial wipes and sanitizing options. And I will continue diligently cleaning for their safety. After all, we still do not know a whole lot about this virus and why some people are asymptomatic, others are afflicted with longstanding complications, and others die. Even though we are vaccinated we still can get it. And although we may not get as ill, we potentially can be carriers if we stop being diligent and catch it from someone, putting unvaccinated folks in danger. It will be a while before herd immunity kicks in. 

So don't put the mask away just yet. As for masks, they will continue to be part of my wardrobe accessories especially for shopping and casual visits. It's not such a big deal. How wearing a mask became a threat to personal liberty is beyond me. It's science, not an issue of freedom.

Thanks to Shirley B who made all of these except two (the stripe and the animal print). 

I'm happy to see celebrities doing their part, although in this situation, I've chosen masking and it has nothing to do with them. Tory Burch has a #wearadamnmask challenge. Through the campaign, celebrities are posting selfies sending the message of the importance of wearing a mask in public. There are sequined masks, tie-died, floral, basic solid colours, bright neon colours, pastels, animal print motifs, plaid, gingham, and of course, the novelty ones including sport team promotion, lipstick kisses, smiley faces, cartoon characters, and anything else that suits your personality type. Then there are the disposable options also being promoted. Bien sur, you need a LBFM - little black face mask. For a look at the celebrities and their choices visit the hellomagazine website. 

The CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) tested 20 different face masks and summarized the effectiveness in this Marketplace overview. Beware the one-layer bandana-scarf-face mask and gaiter-styled face mask. According to the Marketplace report, these are the least protective. These masks allow too many germs in and let too many out. If there is a disposable face-covering insert underneath, or a filter pocket insert inside the bandana and gaiter styles closely fitting the nose and mouth, then they may be redeemed but not always considered more effective. 

Masks with an exhalation valve are not recommended at all.

Need

Look for the following  criteria when choosing a face mask:

Good: tightly woven fabric (high thread-count) 

Better: two layers of fabric (both fabrics with a high thread count)

Best: reinforcement of a two-layer, high thread-count mask with a standard disposable mask underneath (In the photo you see that I just use tiny safety pins to add and easily remove disposable masks from my cloth ones.

Continue all those good habits when you are out and about. Don't be irresponsible during this pandemic (even if you are vaccinated).

What Would Happen If . . .

Closet Fashion Analysis: 

A Necessary Fashion Statement

Since face masks have been recommended, I decided to do a creative thinking exercise which predicts possible consequences - "What Would Happen If . . . ?"

WWHI face masks were mandated for use in all interpersonal contact outside of one's own home for an indeterminate amount of time? 

My thoughts, from my inner fashionista are . . . 

Face masks would become more colourful, more unique reflecting personal preferences and idiosyncrasies, thus becoming more fashionable, and more outlandish. There would be face mask trends to watch every season.

We don't have to go far, it's already happening. I bought this

Photo Source: JoyD

one yesterday at Nature's Health Centre where I buy my supplements and essential oils. A local seamstress has taken the opportunity and a local business is promoting and selling her wares. Grassroots commerce - love it!

WWHI we went more high tech . . . Cyclists have been

Photo Source: respromasks

 using pollution face masks in major British, European and Chinese cities for awhile now and Respro™ masks, manufactured in the United Kingdom, are being re-invented by consumers to deal with the predicament we find ourselves in now. When Respro™ was asked,"Can a Respro™ mask protect against Corona virus?" they responded with a technical explanation only they can do and not many can understand. Visit the Respro™ FAQ page for that explanation. 

Photo Source: Airygal.com

WWHI? Well, this too is already happening - "fashionable" alternatives being influenced by safety supply manufacturers. How much safety this actually offers may be debatable.

Ah but all that is still too ordinary - let's predict outside the patterned fabric face mask, cyclist pollution mask and safety-influenced samples.



Think more outlandish consequences for fashion trends such as elaborate designs re-creating, modifying and applying elements from Venetian eye masks . . . 

Photo Source: Simply Masquerade

or Jester masks . . . 

Photo Source: Simply Masquerade

or this Bauta Musica Masquerade mask. . . . hmm? Indeed, what would happen if . . . ?

Photo Source: Simply Masquerade

What would happen if . . .

I recall a creative thinking exercise at a workshop I attended many years ago. The question posed to us was, "What would happen if all the cars in the world were painted yellow?" The consequences ranged from outright revolution to personal individualization. My response was that individualization would take place by adopting accessories for the cars that would likely reflect the extreme, bizarre and eccentric depending upon the personality type of the car owner.

And so it is with fashion. I can imagine the same exercise being presented in design classes. We all wear clothing and if we were all mandated to wear black, you can imagine the accessories that would develop.

What would happen if everyone was mandated to wear black ?

Given that there would be variations with the clothes themselves but since all is black, accessories would become more important to illustrate one's individuality (think of Fred Butler designs.) . . .

the belt . . . belts would probably evolve much differently than what we see now. They might extend upward and downward in such a way that would not only embellish the torso but extend into decorative trains and wings.

Coral, silver & black statement necklace by JoyD.
Photo by JoyD.

the jewellery . . . fashion costume jewellery would abound and I suspect choices, such as the ones Iris Apfel makes, would be the norm. More facial (for example: nose rings, eyebrow decoration) and more elaborate and unconventional ear jewellery would also evolve.



the bag . . . purses would probably not be much different since their function is the same and does not necessarily have a direct impact on the clothing worn.



footwear . . . similar to bags, shoes would also not develop differently than they are now, except our choices would probably lean toward what would be considered more eccentric and most certainly there would be more colour. There is no shortage of bizarre footwear presently.

Photo Source: Parasite 

frames for eye-glasses . . . designs like Parasite would be the norm and glasses would be viewed in the same way jewellery is by everybody who needed to wear corrective lenses. 

Photo Source: Just Posh Masks

In fact, decorative eye masks (See Just Posh Masks) would probably develop for special occasions.


hats and hair accessories . . . once again creative extensions of what exists today but bolder and bigger.



gloves . . . the long and short of it; obviously more colourful and certainly more decorative.

Chica Blue Shawl handmade by C. Murphy.

Photo by JoyD. 

the scarf, shawls, capes . . . colourful combinations would predominate with large and larger sizes coupled with ingenious ways of tying them.

tattoos . . . definitely more people would have tattoos that would be larger, more colourful and probably in more conspicuous places.

I have never taught in a design school but I'm thinking that this exercise would elicit curious and creative results.

I just may use an adaptation of this exercise for my own design purposes: what would happen if . . .