“When I need a dose of levity to quell my adult cynicism, I pull out a particular photo of myself: On a hazy summer day in the ’90s, a young, jubilant dancer poses in front of a fountain in Italy, arms perched overhead in fifth position as she showcases her favorite outfit of purple, yellow and black checkered shorts, a yellow tank over a purple T-shirt, thick black socks and white sneakers. My purple scrunchie and owlish glasses complete the matchy-patchy fashion hurricane. Despite the style monstrosity, the shot reminds me that unfettered happiness can rescue any sartorial disaster.”
–Lauren Kay, Lauren Kay Communications, New York City
“My first day in the field at a new sales job, I was shadowing a senior rep on my team, and evidently had no time for a wardrobe check before rushing out the door. When I had a moment, I looked down at the horror—brown pants with black shoes. Evidently I should start reading those men’s fashion magazines stacked on my coffee table.” –Shaun Gallegos, Orange County, California
“After careful planning and list making, we left for a seven-hour road trip to visit folks we see just a few times each year. Along the way, as I powdered my nose using the visor mirror, I noticed that my eyeliner skipped a spot, and I wondered why the broken line looked so prominent. It wasn’t until an hour into our visit that I realized I had forgotten mascara—for my nearly transparent eyelashes. As soon as I could, I headed to the nearest drugstore, bought the first tube of mascara I saw, and applied it in the car.” –Ann Silverthorn, Erie, Pennsylvania
“I went to Catholic schools and always wore a uniform. As a result, everything I wear is a uniform: my work uniform, my dance uniform, my cocktail dress uniform, my slob uniform. I am so bad mixing and matching garments, shoes and accessories that I have to buy two and three pairs of the same item.”
–Patricia Vaccarino, PR professional, Publisher, Author
What was your worst fashion blunder?