FASHION FROM ABROAD: Maxin’ and Relaxin’ all Cool

When the stress of being a full-time college student hits its peak, a spa day can reset a Fashionista/o’s mental state. DIY manicures and mud masks are all well and good, and visiting a sauna and treating oneself to a massage certainly helps. But what if we could experience the most authentic and luxurious spa treatment in history? That’s exactly where I found this Fashionista—on her way to some well-deserved R&R in Bath, Somerset, England.

Archeological evidence shows that the city’s hot springs have been used since about 8000 BCE, but Romans built Aquae Sulis—their very own sanctuary dedicated to rest and relaxation—in the year 43. For centuries, travelers from all over the world have visited to spend some time here to unwind.

This Fashionista’s easy and comfortable yet sleek and stylish look strikes a perfect balance and declares the ultimate lax attitude. Her chic black sack dress says, “I’m chill, but I also brought the latest Vogue to read while I soak in a thermal bath.”

The sack dress, despite its unfortunate name, is a perfect “I woke up like this,” ready-to-go frock. It comes to us today from as early as 1952, or “the year of the wandering waistline”; throughout the year dresses gradually lost their shape. This sturdier shift is attributed to Cristobal Balenciaga and Hubert de Givenchy. A likely backlash response to Dior’s tight-waisted “New Look,” the sack represents the evolving social position of women in the late ’50s, as it completely rejects the male gaze. Its silhouette is known for the complete lack of one. The dress’s figure-concealing shape was even (incorrectly) suspected to be a Communist plot. How’s that for the power of fashion?

Accompanied by sharp black boots, sunnies and an oversized tartan scarf, this Fashionista is ready to relax. What better way to spend the day?

Captured: I stopped this Fashionista for some quick pics outside of the Roman Baths on Stall Street.

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