Attaining the level of “respect” the article references makes it seem not only unattainable – but undesirable to do so. Nevertheless, I do not believe my self-respect or respect for others is grounded in what I’m wearing. Maybe it stems from that fact that I would never look down on someone for not looking like a finalist for the Vogue cover. Perhaps this is the fear of some.
While I do see some value in the notion of being aware of one’s appearance and actions, I think a healthier application of this message for women, might be “Dress for the job you want to have” — and in that case, I could certainly see someone splurging on an expensive suit or pair of dress shoes in some industries, as the clothes one wears can be attributed to money, which signals success, and may enable someone to “look the part” they’re hoping to be promoted to. I would not however, go as far as recommending one wear this on the weekends in fear they run into their colleague, or heaven forbid, their boss.
It seems counter-productive to so many areas of life for women (relationships, career, self-esteem, essence of time) to engage in conversation that redeems the idea that women should always look their best. It is not only impossible (although I, like most others, do wish it was) — but it seems a counterproductive approach to think about our appearance in a lens so different than men think about there own. Sure, the female influence is rubbing off on men (new standards for personal hygiene, think Mansome), but men’s emerging consciousness around image has undoubtedly stemmed from women’s emphasis on perfectionism in an appearance-obsessed culture, at least in part.
I think it’s a more promising sign that women, especially younger women, are comfortable not looking their best and venturing out to run their errands, meet up with friends for lunch, or catch a flight without having to look paparazzi-ready. The paparazzi aren’t waiting for any of us anyway, and it’s unhealthy to pretend as if they are.