Just finished a marvelous book,
The Thoughtful Dresser, by Linda Grant. It delves deep into the meaning of clothes for all of us, especially women, and their purpose in helping us express our deepest spiritual wishes for renewal, uniqueness, or attractiveness. She explores the role of clothes in healing our souls, defining our place in society, and uplifting our spirits. One of the best books I've read on what's going on with my lifetime of sewing for myself, having learned at fifteen that I would never find a pair of trousers in a store that fit me.
I could find only one thing wrong with the book, especially its sections dealing with the process of shopping, searching and finding the perfect dress/shoes/coat. She entirely omitted the sense of mastery, entitlement and individuality to be achieved by learning to sew for yourself using the perfect fabric, the right design, the garment you know you need or desire, even though it's not in the shops, or the minds of loony designers. (One little correction, too. Radiation doesn't make your hair fall out during cancer treatment, chemo does.)
Hmmm, this sounds like an interesting book. I will have to check it out. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteI read this book on a very bumpy flight from MPLS to LONDON in August. It completely calmed my nerves, had me laughing, and warmed my soul.
ReplyDeleteIt was my therapy!!!!
I have this book and it is sitting on the night stand amongst the stack of 'must reads' that I have. After your review, I think I will move this up to the top of the stack - sounds quite interesting.
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