Thursday, 04 November 2010 -- Day 319 (332)

I wouldn't say I'm a slave to fashion, but I like to look nice w/o spending a lot of money to do so.  My frugality is undoubtedly part of my Dutch heritage, which I inherited from Mom.  Growing up, most of my clothes, pajamas, swimsuits were made by her.  Yes, even swimsuits.  The one I still remember was a two piece that actually covered my mid-section.  The top half hung loosely over my middle and was made out of a white eyelet material.  I'm pretty sure it was lined.  Not that a 10-year-old has much to reveal.  Mom was an extremely talented seamstress, but when you're 10, fashion is more important than frugality.  This was about the same time that the jeans w/ the double zippers were in-style.  The cool girls in my school had them so naturally I wanted a pair too....not b/c I was one of them but b/c I aspired to be one of them.  I don't remember what they cost, but whatever it was, it was too expensive so Mom made me a pair.  They looked pretty close to the store-bought style, and I wore them, but they just weren't as cool as the "real" ones.  Homemade and hand-me-downs were my style.............not much has changed.