Where's the Fun?

What a nightmare. There is such a heavy focus in the world of fashion on wearing clothes that mask your size or highlight certain features. Does it cling to the body showing off that widely desired hourglass figure? Do the lines run the right way to give a slimming effect? Do the colours suit your skin tone? It’s all about aesthetic appeal - how you look to and for others. Need to match trends marketed by the top fashion designers. Can’t miss out on those celebrity styles of the season.

Surely this isn't the only measure we could use when deciding what’s ‘in’. There must be others.

What if the fashionable choice wasn’t based solely on the outfit’s visual appeal? What if we stopped for a moment and considered not what would be most socially acceptable? What if instead we decided to wear what is the most fun? So many of my best experiences with clothes, as an individual and as a parent, came from clothes that were out of the ordinary. I just know there are so many amazing options out there that most of us think we’re ‘too cool’ to wear. But you know what, I have few very important things to tell you, starting with my number 1: Bow ties are cool.

#1 Bow ties are cool

Often mocked for his unconventional fashion choices, I’m sure all Whovians would agree that Matt Smith’s rendition of the Doctor in the popular television series ‘Dr Who’ got one thing absolutely right, “Bow ties are cool”.

In a world where so many accessories lean towards the bland and boring, these little pillow ties provide a fun alternative to the long, straight necktie. For one thing, they’re enjoyable to adjust, and for another they give a nice nod to intellectualism. Most importantly, however, when wearing a bowtie it’s easy to jump around through time and space and play pretend. Why not be an old time professor for a while or one of the other adultier adults of the past? Or how about a magician? Or the world’s coolest Doctor? A little roleplay can go a long way.

#2 For Science!

One of the most outrageous clothing items I’ve seen to date are those colour changing wonders at the beach. Using heat changing microcapsules so the board shorts and swimwear will change colour, genius! Why not bring a few more items like this into the mix.

Nothing livens up a function, workplace or study hall like a rainbow inducing water fight. I imagine students would be first in line for those novelty school uniforms. Sorry teachers!

#3 Snappy Suspenders

Okay, I cannot be the only person who knows why suspenders are awesome and need to make a comeback. Yes, they look good. Yes, they come in enough colours to match any and all outfits. Yes, they have shiny little clamps at the end. But the best part is obvious.

Suspenders go snap! They are stretchy and springy. Unlike their mundane belt alternative, you can pull them out from your body when dancing or even standing idly. The novelty aspect is endless and as we all know, upon release, they make the most satisfying snap. The snap is especially useful when it’s time to wage war against your suspender-wearing fellows. If a party starts to die down you can always see whose suspender snapping skills will win the day.

#4 Peek a Boo

Flipping sequins, extra fabric, secret pockets...My kids enjoy them, let’s share in the fun. Imagine you’re sitting in the middle of a staff meeting and your boss is droning on about something that, let’s face it, could have been an email. Now, you can’t just go on your phone, that would be rude, but a few sets of reversible sequins on your jeans and you can enjoy shifting images with a light brush of your hand. A little bit of frill and you have another tactile wonder on your hands. Not too invasive or distracting, but entertaining enough to break up the monotony situations such as these. As for secret pockets, who doesn’t want to feel like a secret agent?

#5 Tricky Top Hats

Finally, and without further ado, let me introduce to you an age old, crowd favourite. The one, the only, the top hat. Whether tradition or whimsical, rustic or regal, the top hat’s time in the spotlight was one for the history books. Worn by founding father of the United States, Abraham Lincoln himself, was the height of fashion and when they’re enjoyed today they also become the height of fun. It’s neat to walk around with that little extra on top, but the portable performance pieces you can learn should be all the rage. The rolls, flips, the magic tricks, and twirls you can add to your entertainment repertoire will make you the life of any party.

In a world where we all take ourselves just that little bit too seriously, fearing judgement or reprisal, how about we step back and remember life’s too short to trap yourself within social normalities. Have a little fun and don’t forget to do, and wear, what makes you happy.