Three Peas (+1) in a Pod

Week 11 - Discussion Post (also on FB)

While I don’t watch “What Not to Wear” on a regular basis, I have seen Stacy and Clinton in action before. I am always amazed, first, by the flagrancy and frequency of the fashion faux pas's (some of which I am admittedly guilty) and also by the redemptive and revolutionary quality of a few “simple” stylistic rules… when applied appropriately.

As I watched the episode featuring Pam (and subsequently, a few clips from the “Greatest Transformations” montage), the revelation of these “rules” was something to which I had not tuned in previously. Unlike some shows (ex. interior design, home renovation, cooking, and other DIY topics), where rules are either articulated clearly or even bulleted briefly on the screen, the hosts / producers of WNTW have seemingly decided to take on a more flexible and / or personal approach. A blanket set of fashion fixes are not overtly stated by the hosts, but slipped in surreptitiously by the some of the ambushed offenders. In the portions of this makeover show we, the viewers, get to see, general recommendations (never really rules) are subtly woven in to the conversations between and consultations / critiques conducted by Stacy and Clinton. As I watched this time, I sensed that the featured individual had been more carefully coached off camera and had a specific toolbox of tips with which to rebuild his / her wardrobe. When tailored to body type, tone (skin, hair, eye), proportions, and personality, the end result is transformative, trendy, and timeless (Hmmm… how is it possible to have those latter two descriptors simultaneously??)

In terms of the nature and design of a compelling fashion experience, I came up with a list of three “P’s” that I thought were addressed:

Personality
Practicality
Professionalism

Personality
At the outset of each episode of WNTW, viewers are usually treated to a trailer of tackiness. After being subjected to a spy-cam snapshot of the unsuspecting, it is tempting to toss out labels like “The Schlump,” the shapeless stick, or the shameless slob, solely based on style… and that’s where we stop. While we might get a peek at personality, generally, the person is pigeon-holed by his / her poorly-fitting pants or stretched-out sweatshirt. More often than not, self-esteem is suffering, and the soul does not shine. Bright, bubbly, or bold personalities are often buried under baggy barriers. Creative, clever, and competent contributors are concealed from society by “comfy” clothes.

Thankfully, Stacy and Clinton see beyond the atrocious attire. The hosts, hired to help, hurry to dispose of the horrendous hand-me-downs and stock up with sophisticated, suitably-shaped, and simply stunning shirts, skirts, slacks, and shoes. While fabrics and fashions that fit and are flattering are at the fore, the hosts also seek to bolster and bring out the beauty within. For them, fashion is not only about patterns, palettes, and pumps, it is about sharing and celebrating the individuality of each person and personality. Almost without fail, when the old is off and the new is in view, friends and family (and fans at home) notice not only how “nice” the individual looks but also the pride or perkiness or peacefulness with which they present themselves as they walk in the room. Fashion ought to be a reflection (and revelation) of personality.

Practicality
Whether a mom or media mogul, a teacher or a trial lawyer, an artist or an administrative assistant, fashion needs to be functional. It is the fallacy of “functionality” that causes many to look frumpy, though. One set of videos, called “Best Frumpy to Feminine,” seizes the opportunity to slam sweatshirts / pants, sweaters, and shorts, articles of clothing that many claim are “practical.” These items are wash and wear, quick to get on and off, easy to maneuver in, allow one to “blend in,” and help “hide the flaws.” As Stacy and Clinton point out, though, this form of “functional” is functional only for frump.

In one of the “fast forward” videos entitled “Kimberly Flunks Fashion,” a teacher and mother of triplets is tackled for wearing oversized sweaters and T’s. For her, these were “functional,” but Stacy and Clinton gave her an F for Frump! In the end, though, Kimberly was fab. One of the key concepts of compelling fashion that she walked away with was the need for “use value” and versatility. Being able to mix and match and easily move from one venue to another (ex. from work to dinner out) with only minor changes is a must. It is possible to be classy and comfortable at the same time, a pillar of practicality.

Professionalism
The concept of classy AND comfortable spills over into the realm of professionalism, as well. In a number of segments, it seemed that those captured on camera had decided that these two ideas were mutually exclusive and opted for comfortable over classy, which ended up being sloppy over sophisticated. This was especially true of caregivers (ex. moms, teachers, health / home care workers). Self took second place to service, and it showed.

While this often takes some convincing, Stacy and Clinton embark on many missions to makeover the “thee over (or instead of) me” complex. As the trod upon try on outfit after outfit, eventually they find something that fits, flatters, and functions. Those that tried to blend in realize they can still do so without wearing baggy and bland. Tailored and timeless pieces with tempered tones and textures are trendy without being over-the-top. Soon the selfless realize that in order to be the best they can be in whatever role / job they have at home or in the workplace, presenting themselves professionally is key. It brings excitement and energy to their endeavors and deserved (although not necessarily desired) respect and recognition from others.

A fourth “P,” Presence (a term used by Clinton), also entered my internal conversation about the nature and design of a compelling fashion experience. I’m not sure that I am able to adequately describe what this means or looks like, but it seems to draw on each of the previous “P’s.” Confidence, context, and quality all enter in and contribute to the “Wow” factor featured at the end of each episode.