Meliciously Yours The Blog

An Old Soul and Fashion Reincarnation

Though I didn’t grow up in the Victorian era, (nor am I British ;-) I do love the art, fashion, literature, and history of that period.  During this time the world saw the beginning of haute couture, the Industrial revolution, and a social shift in gender roles.  A lot of revolutionary, world changing paradigms – and I missed 'em!  Oh, well, we’re all able to enjoy the benefits now but because of my passion for this bygone era, I’ve always considered myself an Old Soul, and hence the inspiration for one of my designer tees, aptly named, “An Old Soul”.  But I’ve been quite surprised just how many people have never heard the term “old soul” or know what it actually means. 

This first came to my attention last fall when I was exhibiting at a market place and so many lovely, inspiring, fashion conscious middle-aged women picked up our “An Old Soul” t-shirt and said they loved the design but they didn’t want to call any more unwanted attention to their age.  I was quite shocked that they misinterpreted my message on the t-shirt.

I have always understood this timeless sentiment as it applied to a person’s maturity and insight outsdie their physical age.  It’s as if an old soul has a level of familiarity or relatable experiences outside of her own era – like she’s already lived them.  That’s why the terms origin is often related to the Buddhist idea of soul transmigration – or reincarnation.  A reincarnated soul that is back for more. Hmmm.... could also relate to vintage fashion!  Quite simply my intent for the t-shirt design is defined as someone who has wisdom beyond her years with a sense of nostalgia and a deep appreciation and understanding for the bygone. 

Meliciously Yours’ “An Old Soul” designer tee is meant to be a compliment to any woman who wears it and is not an interpretation of age.  The hand-illustrated Victorian boot captures the essence of an old soul (or sole ;-) and embodies compassion, experience, and lessons learned.  You have a presence about you that implies self realization, liberation, and charisma.  You are soul searching no more.  You’ve already found it and embraced it – whether you’re 5 or 105.    

 

 

Photos by: Stephanie Saujon Batlz of La Photographie Nashville
Model:  Erin Belle

 

Victorian Fun Fashion Facts…

Speaking of world changing paradigms... what are your thoughts on the historical corset:

• an 'objet d’art' – a symbol of sexual freedom; va-va-voom!

• Restrictive; symbol of women’s oppression; help, I can’t breathe!

• Paradoxical; dominance and submission; girl power!

Tees the Season - Ways to Wear T-Shirts this Winter…and Stay Warm and Stylish!

Just because the days are darker, colder, and shorter doesn’t mean you have to put away your short-sleeve t-shirts for the season.  Remember most of your exposure to the outside temps will be limited.  Once inside your destination you’ll hopefully be warm and toasty and what better time to peel away the layers and uncover the essence of your wardrobe -- your t-shirt!  So go ahead, bare those arms and show some skin... and some style and let your tee be your statement piece no matter what the weather.   Here are 5 ways to enjoy winter in a tee. 

 

1.  Peruse your closet on a snow day and see how you can glam up and winterize your t-shirts.

 

2.  Layer a short sleeve tee over a long sleeve tee and pull up a chair beside a cozy fire to toast your toes.

 

3.  Show off that fantastic vintage coat you bought last spring coupled with your favorite graphic t-shirt. 

4.  Pair a tee with a cropped leather jacket and add some baubles for a quick casual-to-going-out style.

 

5.  Scarves are a must have fashion staple and the easiest way to dress up a basic t-shirt. 

 

 Victorian Fun Fashion Facts…

Talk about layering!  Did you know that Victorian women didn’t simply just throw on a dress and slip on some shoes every day.  They wore approximately 9 layers – and not just in the winter but year round – starting with stockings, garters, cotton drawers, sleeveless chemise, corsets, crinolines, camisole, petticoat, finally the gown, gloves, and a hat.  Whew, thanks goodness for jeans and a t-shirt!