We have looked up to Rosie the Riveter, the ‘40s war icon, as an emblem of a woman’s strength in a male dominated world. Her rough and tough pose along with her kerchief and rolled up sleeves proved that women meant business. This Fashionista reminded me of the popular propaganda poster. Despite the obvious fact that she has updated Rosie’s kerchief, she is dressed in a way that shows off her magnificent tattoos. I find that tattoos on a woman often give her a sense of quiet strength without compromising her feminism. I like to call it the panther in the bunny suit effect — endearingly sweet on the outside, but with some edge.
Nothing highlights the hard and soft elements of a woman’s character than juxtaposing elements in her ensemble. This Fashionista wore a very cutesy dress silhouette, but the leopard print adds a hint of sassiness. She injected some darkness with her stylish, cat-eye glasses, heavy necklace and flats. These details really set off her tattoos as well as the light dress.
With all the easy to wear summer dresses floating about, it is easy to overlook the touches that would make that outfit bolder. Toying with hard and soft items in an outfit does not necessarily mean that you have to attempt to be masculine. The easiest way achieve this balance is experimenting with a mixture of light to heavy fabrics. You would be surprised at how great airy fabrics look with leather, denim or hefty knits.
Carefully selecting your accessories can also intensify the overall intrigue of the outfit. You have that perfect summer dress, why not forgo the sandals and wear a pair of biker boots? You can even add a ripped, denim vest or a studded belt. Wear your tank top and cut-offs, but add an armband bracelet or two to highlight your arms just as well as Rosie and this Fashionista. Instead of a beaded headpiece, knot a kerchief to hold your hair back with pride. Tap in to that inner panther, but let it make peace with your bunny side.
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