Hobnobbing, originally uploaded by Cohabitating_Closet.
Following Future Lint's sage advice, I planned this outfit the night before. Today, we are going to a small work party for my department, but some administrators will be there too. I have been thinking about about sexiness (or perceived sexiness) and dressing, in the context of Jesse.anne.o's blog post. While she was writing about harassment that occurs as we expose more of our bodies in warm weather, a related concern for me is how exposing our bodies can negatively effect other's opinions, personally and professionally. To me, this professional element is a feminist issue. When I show my legs or even the shape of my legs, whether this is considered "appropriate" relates to how others police the fact that I possess and display a woman's body. Perhaps I feel free to expose more of my legs because I generally keep it covered on top, and I don't wear lots of jewelry or makeup. Not that these are bad things (showing decolletage is awesome, as is the fun of jewelry and makeup), but in a way, I think that we (females) learn to limit/censor activities that draw attention to our femaleness in the work place, and it's a bit ridiculous. In contrast, drawing attention to masculinity is generally praised.So I happily bring the uncomfortableness of the feminine to the party. (Blokey gives a thumbs up, which I appreciate as he'll have to stand with me). Last year, I wore something shorter (but with leggings. I got asked politely if I was the secretary by some folks, and I don't care if this happens again). I know it's hardly a big act to dress the way you want to a social event, but this outfit is one tiny act in a larger attempt for me to boldly accept and express myself, without shame or fear. I figure it's good for folks to meet a young looking woman professor who dresses like a young woman.
What are your thoughts? Are you concerned about censoring your sexuality around co-workers, even at social events? Do you think I've picked foolishly (there's still time for me to change the outfit) and damn it, I should add a few inches? Or do think that PhD should be open minded enough to recognize that hemlines are just inches and folks should be free to dress as they please?
Edit: It's chillier outside than I thought so I will likely add grey tights to this outfit, which I think changes the modesty balance a lot.
Without the jacket, I think there is probably too much skin. I think upper arms are more intimate that legs, though. Blazer: Banana Republic
Dress: Mir 101 (?) from Cliche (it came with a hoodie and I cut it out)
Belt: Not Just Vintage
Camisole: Urban Outfitters
Shoes: Aerosoles, thrifted
