Leo graduated from elementary last Friday and after a busy end of school year, we flew off to France for our annual trip. Once again, we have rented our house to fund the flights and accommodation. We arrived last night just in time for Scott to watch France in the Euro Championship - but too bad he did not miss it... France lost, and Scott went to bed disappointed.
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| Leo's dollar bill origami: diamond (dime-in) ring |
A few months ago, a Twitter follower sent me this YouTube link depicting five different ways to wear a men’s dress shirt. Amazing. I
tried some of the tricks with one of Scott’s shirts, but quickly found that his size
did not provide maximum wear-ability (e.g., worn as a dress it was too short).
Alternatively, I purchased a black XXL version during my spring clothes shopping trip.
It only cost 99 cents and it is by far the best purchase I made this season! (Scheduled
for a university lecture that same day, I rushed my thrifting and made other wardrobe decisions that I have subsequently regretted and donated).
After testing the few combinations presented in the video, I experimented further and soon realized that this shirt's changeability was endless and only limited to my imagination; I realized that it was the most versatile piece in my closet (it can be worn a top, a bottom or a dress), ideal for traveling light. And this summer would be the perfect time to push my creativity: Wearing the men's dress shirt everyday for the next two months (except Sundays, laundry day) and forcing myself to come up with fifty different ways to wear it. It will be a summer-long Mini-WardrobeFave challenge! While the kids catch up with their cousins and brush up their French speaking skills, I will be working on my book and sharing with you my daily look through Twitter (I will also summarize each week's look on the blog).
To maximize the shirt's possibilities, I added a couple of buttons to the
bottom front to make it more decent when worn as a skirt or dress. I find the front pocket distracting in some looks and wish I had purchased a pocket-less shirt: I tried removing it, but a tiny hole warns
me of a bigger disaster, so I left it alone and will make it work.
I packed accordingly knowing that: 1) I will need tops when I wear the shirt as a bottom and vice-versa; 2) I will be visiting rainy (Paris) and
hot locations (South); and, 3) I will participate in various activities, from museum visits and city
strolling to camping and country hikes, which explains my choice of shoes.
Here are the contents of my duffel bag:
- One bottom: Leggings
- Two tops: Black tank top and Long sleeve striped shirt
- One topper: Cardigan
- Four pairs of shoes: High heels, platforms, sandals and boots.
- Two belts
- Intimates: PJ’s, swimsuit, underwear, bra and one pair of socks
- Sun hat
- Four pieces of jewelry: bangle bracelet, earrings, necklace, diamond (dime-in-a) ring -a birthday present from Leo ;)
- Personal Hygiene bag
On laundry day, I will wear leggings and tank. If I
need to clean the shirt between washes, I will do so at night, with the hope that it will be dry the next morning.
I have said that Zero Waste has tremendously boosted my
creativity and that less choices provide more versatility…This is day one of my men’s shirt diary. Here is how I wore the men’s shirt today.
I'm glad that the video help you.
ReplyDeleteHave a nice trip and hope you have a good weather too.
The you tube video was fun to watch. I look forward to seeing the fifty ways you come up with!
ReplyDeleteyou are amazing.
ReplyDeletei'm so excited to see how this goes.
and your book...can't wait.
you're inspiring.
What a fun challenge! I'll be watching to get inspired. The only thing is...I don't like to iron. I would have to find a wrinkle-resistant shirt. Bonne chance!
ReplyDeleteFashion is not my strong suit, and for some modesty reasons, not all of the options would work for me, but, boy, am I excited to see what you create. That video was unbelievable. And, 50 ways? Wow. Necessity is the mother of invention, right? I love that about living more simply--it inspires you innovate and see things in a new way. Looking forward to it. And, wishing I had a trip to France as well. Quand j'etais petite, j'habitais au sud de la France. De temps en temps, la France me manque.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun project to do! Because of modesty reasons, I won't be trying it myself, but the video was great and the model looked nice in all of the different ways she wore the shirt. It sure sparked some creativity in me wondering what I could do with my wardrobe with less pieces, more versatility and more creativity. I look forward to seeing what you come up with!
ReplyDeleteI don't think I would feel completely dressed in any of those five looks on the youtube video--and the arey all braless, very short skirt looks--not a flattering style for me at all. But I admire her ingenuity! And this comes at a perfect time for me, as I'm packing for a week in California. I have to pack one fancy dress as well as items for the beach. I'm tempted to just throw everything in my closet in the suitcase (which isn't a lot) but your list gives me some direction for how to minimize the packed items. Love hearing about your annual time in France!
ReplyDeleteI'm with you on the "completely dressed" portion, but I was playing around yesterday, and a fitted cami or leggings under the shirt helped me feel a bit more secure--I always need upper support!
DeleteKrystal~
DeleteThat is a great idea. I too am top heavy and could not pull off the brasless style. I thought about using leggins, but using a cami is brilliant. This would also beneficial for when you wear it as a skirt. You could use the same cami to keep with the minimalism theme.
Respectfully, I think it's OK for her to discuss what she wants on her blog. She can't censor her opinions on fashion just because she is able to wear certain things that others aren't.
DeleteHaving said that, my personal opinion is, that while it sounds like a neat idea, it really depends on who is wearing it, the quality of the fabric and whether it is too noticeable that the garment is a a shirt in this specific case (I emphasize "too".) I don't really like this one, but look forward to seeing the other uses of the man's shirt.
Also, I think it's OK to disagree with Bea, it doesn't mean you're a "hater". It just means you have different opinions.
I meant to put this comment in the general comments, not as a specific reply to yours, sorry. My comment starts..."Respectfully..."
DeleteNo worries. Oh, to be younger, thinner and French! Haha
DeleteAll the twitter pics are quite glamorous. Good photography! And amazing creativity on Bea's part. Looking forward to her afterthoughts on the trip.
Bea, it helps that you are gorgeous, as I think you could pull off about anything. Those of us who are funnier-looking may need to be a bit more cautious!! Still, I look forward to seeing what you come up with.
ReplyDeleteThis looks like a lot of fun! I look forward to seeing all the different styles you come up with.
ReplyDeleteI love this idea and I love day one!! At some point can you provide more detailed instructions for the folding and tying of things like this?
ReplyDeleteI always love reading about your travels with a micro wardrobe and adore the youtube video. I'm so frustrated though - at 6' and a size 8-10, no men's shirt I've found is decent on me! I've no doubt gals my height who are on the skinnier side could pull it off, but sadly I'll be admiring this one from afar
ReplyDeleteThis is a wonderful idea. Best of luck with it. I plan to try it too now. You've inspired me. :)
ReplyDeleteYou're very inspiring! We've got a long way to go, and being as "top heavy" as I am, I don't think any of those dresses in the video would work for me, but still -- every time I go to the store and reuse my containers, I get re-motivated. I realize how easy it is to start to make tiny changes that then add up to big ones. Thank you so much for this blog.
ReplyDeleteLove the idea of one garment...50 ways. Anyone remember the 80s Multiples/Units? I loved the similar idea; unfortunately the concept is all but gone. -Jean
ReplyDeleteThis outfit looks lovely on you and I am sure that each look will be polished and creative. It is hard for those of us who do not have your tall and thin frame to carry some of these ideas off. I tend to look a little crazy (and dumpy) with such make-do looks. But, point taken, and I will be much more conscious of what I pack for my next trip. And I'm happy to see that even you needed 4 pairs of shoes - but surprised that you don't feel the need for something more rugged.
ReplyDeleteI can't help but notice how many negative and self deprecating comments this post has generated. It's the only time I've ever thought of posting a negative comment. Something similar to the previous Anonymous comment. I would look like a crazy person too if I wore these things. The reason why is that I don't look like a fashion model, and when you don't, and you walk around in a man's shirt with no pants, you just look foolish. Bea, you might want to reconsider this one. I'm not sure you realize how bad fashion makes a lot of people feel.
ReplyDeleteI'm don't think that Bea needs to rethink this for several reasons, but most importantly, it is her blog I think we know it is not her intent to make people feel bad. She has stated several times that her lifestyle isn't a rulebook, but rather serve as inspiration. You can't blame Bea for others body image.
DeleteThat said, I'm a little overweight, according to the BMI and where I would like to be, health wise. I'm 5'7" and currently 170. I will always be top-heavy (which has lots of benefits!) and most strapless items look funky on me. I absolutely loved this post because it encourages me to look at my wardrobe and be more creative.
I know you mean well, Anonymous, but this is Bea's blog and she has said repeatedly that she's not expecting everyone to do what she does. She's showing what SHE does, what SHE'S experimenting with.
DeleteI thought the shirt wouldn't work on me either, but taking INSPIRATION from what she is attempting is what would work for me. Maybe not a man's dress shirt (LOVE IT though Bea!!!!) but an alternative for a 5'8", top-heavy woman, sure.
Bea's helping us THINK and consider options. That is what she is trying to do here.
Bea don't listen to these haters! If they don't like your outfits or ideas, let them come up with their own! Of course your outfits look good on you, you picked them out for your body, that you dress everyday. Maybe they should start their own blog catering to people with body types more like their own. Why bother bringing you down? I love this idea!
ReplyDeleteGreat concept for a series -- thanks! I love the idea of convertible clothing, but I need inspiration to come up with good ideas of my own. I doubt I'll purchase a man's shirt, but I am *really* looking forward to getting in a creative mindset from all of your ideas, Bea.
ReplyDeleteVery clever. It's always nice to learn something new :) Have a blast in France this summer!
ReplyDeleteVery neat, Bea, I'm looking forward to following along!
ReplyDeleteWhile I don't think a men's dress shirt is the way to go for me, it does make me think about how to get more out of each item of clothing.
I'm going to N. America for two weeks this summer, and while I was already planning to not pack a lot, this post is challenging me to think about how I can re-combine a small number of clothes, instead of just recycling a small number of outfits.
This reminds me a little of a dressmaking tutorial I saw a while ago and have been wanting to try - it's a convertible dress that you can wear in about 100 different styles:
ReplyDeletehttp://rowena.typepad.com/rostitchery/infinity-dress.html
Pretty sure you can also buy infinity dresses pre-made, but I like the idea of making my own, and it looks pretty simple to do.
I've never tried wearing a men's shirt in different ways like this, but I have been known to wear scarves as tops/skirts/dresses etc. Recently I was in London, wearing a long sleeved shirt and jeans on what turned out to be one of the hottest days of the year, so I took my patterned scarf and tied it round myself as a dress instead, with a piece of string as a belt - it wasn't exactly high fashion, but it was decent, and stopped me dying of heat on the Tube!
Ahhh!!! I love convertible dresses -- I have been lusting after the super expensive pre-made ones for over a year. I am *so* excited to see this sewing tutorial. Thank you, thank you.
DeleteCan't wait to watch the video. The concept is so "Little" Edie (of Grey Gardens) with her sweathers as skirts and turbans. When I was in High School one of my favorite articles of clothing was a purple striped dress shirt that had been my Uncle's. My Mom tacked up the sleeves and I wore it often as a shirt, a beach coverup and a jacket. I never thought to wear it as a skirt. I miss that shirt....
ReplyDeleteJust read an incredible article on Slate.com called "The Afterlife of of Cheap Clothes". Taken from a new book, Overdressed: The Shockingly High Cost of Cheap Clothing. We waste a tremendous amount of resources in America with our compulsive need to be fashionable! It seems to me that is truly what this post is about........while I may not be buying an XXL man's shirt, I will look more creatively at my own closet as a result of watching what Bea creates!
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of a few nice things, and I did this years ago. I think people just don't get it. Someone once gave me a nice tip for Christmas and told me to buy a new sweater. Where I work now, we can only wear black and white. This works very well for me. I cleaned out ALL the second hand stores of white blouses and black slacks and skirts. Fifteen tops and ten slacks. I love every shirt, clean and crisp, and I have 3 pair of high heels. I always look the same. (also, red lips and nails always, it's a look!) This seems to work much better for me. It was also interesting that on my way to the interview, I said to myself I was going to keep things really simple and only wear blk/wht, and then found out that's all I could wear. OH, I also quit all the jewelry and only wear earrings. This also greatly simplifies my life. Simple wardrobes are the way to go!!
ReplyDeleteP.S. Bea, if I were as thin as you I would wear a mans large shirt too!
You are amazing! I just moved to Japan for a year and I am feeling sad that I am so encumbered by baggage as I wait to be able to move into my apartment. I have two large suitcases, a carry-on, and will have two boxes mailed to me.
ReplyDeleteTo be fair, I had to bring my pillow, which took up 1/4 suitcase, and my camera equipment for research, which took up 1/2. And much space is taken up by research books that I cannot get here.
But I don't know if both of my suitcases will fit into the trunk of a single taxi here. And I have hurt my back lugging things around.
So, during my year here I am going to focus on paring down as much stuff as possible. My main problem is that I don't want to get rid of things that I like and wear, I want to keep them until they wear out and then not replace them. But in the meantime, they weigh me down.
so inspiring just wish i had more imagination with outfit ideas i will keep updated
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of having one item that can be used for multiple clothing items... I have a sarong I use for a skirt, a dress, a scarf, a swimsuit cover up, and although I've never used it as such, I could probably use it as a tube or halter top of some kind, with some creative folding. What surprised me about your list of items you took with you was FOUR pairs of shoes! I certainly understand a pair of sandals, and a regular everyday pair of shoes, but why did you feel the need for boots and platforms?
ReplyDelete'Cause Bea likes them! She's a minimalist shoe lover! LOL
DeleteI just came across this wrap and thought of this post and knew it was up your alley! http://truebluemeandyou.tumblr.com/search/bina+brianca+wrap
ReplyDeleteAfter reviewing various tips from your blog I ripped through my closet like a crazy lady and downsized it by 25%! I am now getting ready to sort through all my books to sell and donate. Thank you for inspiring me and my family. One person can make a difference. I admire you for your strength to stand up to the haters and keep forging on. While I do not have a trim body frame as you, I am looking forward to seeing your 50 different ways to wear the men's shirt and hope I can get ideas, and the nerve, to do same. giggle
ReplyDeleteThank you. Thank you. Thank you. Keep up the good work. Haters can pound sand. Misery loves company so they can go bark up someone else's tree. Cheers. Have fun on holiday. Donna
I really like how you have downsized your wardrobe but still look great! I remembered your post from earlier about your very small but fashionable wardrobe and took it to heart when packing for my study abroad this summer. I'm in Paris for the first time ever, and I'm so glad I packed lighter than some of the other students on the trip- One suitcase (carry-on size) totally worked for me for everything I needed for the trip- everything! I really downsized after taking some of your blog posts to heart.
ReplyDelete(And it has been rather rainy in Paris lately... *le sigh* Oh well.)
Fab idea Bea.... so looking forward to see the 50 ideas, but twitter is banned in China. :(
ReplyDeleteThis blog post isn't about "hey, everyone, take a men's shirt, wear it every day in a different way"... it's about thinking outside the box (or in this case 'the closet'). it's about looking what you have in your closet, coming up with varieties with what you already own and like and what looks good on you. looking at each item with a different eye.
ReplyDeleteWord.
DeleteWell put.
Delete'ZACLY. :)
DeleteVery cool post!
ReplyDeleteI never travel domestically or abroad with less than three pairs of shoes myself, so why can't Bea have four pairs? I MUST rotate footwear or I get very bad blisters.
ReplyDeleteSome other things to consider:
1. Dress codes in Europe are NOT the same as in the US. For example, one does NOT wear clunky athletic shoes anywhere other than in indoor gym or out hiking. (Ditto with sweatpants, shorts, ball caps, etc.)
2. Different weather and different terrain call for varied footwear
3. Different events -formal, medium, casual- call for different footwear
Shoes make or break not only the outfit, but ones physical comfort.
I don't know where in Europe you've traveled, Deb, but everywhere I've been (Italy, Switzerland, Austria, France, Romania, Hungary, etc) I've seen a ton of folks wearing athletic tennis shoes. Granted, it's mostly tourists, but even locals do. Why? Because tennis shoes are the most comfortable walking shoe (with support!). Same goes for sweatpants, shorts, ball caps. Unless you're visiting the vatican city or something like that, I think it's totally acceptable.
DeleteHmn ...interesting. I had a different experience in France, Germany, Denmark, England, Belgium.
DeleteThen again, even here in the States, I usually only wear athletic shoes when I am doing actual athletics (hiking, gym, etc) and wear boots or black leather walking shoes the rest of the time. I think they look nicer...but that's just me!
love the t-shirt idea so much I think I am going have try the t-shirt idea myslef. Anywho I was wounding to do you bring to dog with you when your travel and if you bring dog when your travel what do with you dog while out at places that will not let you have dogs.
ReplyDeleteHi Zero Waste Home. Lovely t-shirt. I have been an advocate of travelling light for a while now. It allows me to concentrate on my adventure than my appearance.
ReplyDeleteI have nominated your inspiring blog for One Lovely Blog Award. All the best.
Hi, Bea....:)
ReplyDeleteQuestion about this travel wardrobe you've brought with you to France: do you wash your leggings in between laundry days? If not, how do you freshen them? I would LOVE to wear things like that more than once but can't seem to get over the gross-out factor, LOL. I am a compulsive washer. It's a big deal that I now wear my jeans all week until laundry day! :)
--Jen
I tried wrapping my husband's shirt; I don't have the knack for creative dressing and wrapping. But the shirt is actually a size large, so I need go to a thrift shop, grab a shirt and head for the dressing room to experiment! My post-pregnancy genetics don't allow for strapless dresses and tops, but I LOVE the shirt/skirt/dress ideas.
ReplyDeleteThe Bianca wrap above is fabulous. Now if I could get over my fright of breaking my sewing machine every time I thread it...picky machine.
Don't you sweat? When you write these posts about bringing only three shirts on a long trip I have to wonder about that. I don't like to wear things like t-shirts and tanks for more than one day because I feel like they need to be washed after one long day. I don't think I am some compulsive, clean freak, American. I just tend to sweat during the course of my normal daily activites and I have a 2-year-old which is messy and I work with kids which tends to be pretty active.
ReplyDeleteAlso, the men's shirt as a skirt look is no good. You look like a half naked hobo. I'm not trying to be a hater. I just think that look is silly and frankly, you're too old to be running around without proper bottoms. I'm all for zero waste which is why I like your blog, but put on some pants!
Calling this woman a "half-naked hobo" is rude, as is saying that she is "too old." If you think your 30's is too old for anything, you've got a long life ahead of you. This is about expanding creativity, not conforming to a status quo of fashion. You say you are not trying to be a hater, but you've succeeded regardless.
DeleteMy jaw is on the floor. How dare you? You may not be "trying to be a hater," but you are a hater.
DeleteBea looks great. She's in shape and should be proud of herself for staying that way especially after 2 kids. Her shirt-as-a-skirt is longer than many skirts we see on the streets. Have you never seen shirt-dresses?
So Bea's in her 30s, does this mean elastic-waisted pants and sensible shoes for the next 50 years? NO!
Leave Bea alone. I can't to see what other ideas she has.
I thought this was a forum where everyone could speak up? But is only ONE opinion all that matters? No, I'm not that "Anonymous" that posted the above.... but I believe that if a blog is out there for reading and discussion, then you can post both points of view!
DeleteEveryone can speak up, but unless you didn't read the Comment Rules before you commented, you should know this is not a place to be rude/offensive/make personal attacks. The post isn't "Do you like how I look in this outfit?" It is "Look what I can do with this one item." Plenty of other people posted that they didn't care for the style, but they did so with tact.
DeleteEveryone communicates in different styles and speaks. Some are more diplomatic, some speak from the hip and say it "like it is".
DeleteJust my opinion, folks. I think I'm probably about the same age as Bea (I'm 37) and I have a similar build. I just don't see the point of wearing a man's shirt in lieu of pants, shorts, or a skirt. I'm no fashionista, but I wouldn't feel dressed in that outfit. If my language was too colorful, I apologize, but honestly, if a person puts stuff like this on the internet and leaves it open for commentary, there will be people who don't think every post is fabulous.
DeleteCourtney, you are very entitled to your opinion (as is everyone)... and I agree with you! I'm glad you posted back!
DeleteA few thoughts… I think Bea looks adorable! I think it is OK to say you don’t care for the look or that you don’t think it would be flattering to your figure or appropriate for your age or geographic location (let’s face it, California and France are much trendier places than say Pennsylvania, where I live). Remember that reality is socially constructed so when you “tell it like it is” you are telling it like it is for YOU, which is OK. But don’t “tell it like it is” for others. It’s not their reality. Fashion is a personal choice. I don’t think it is OK to judge Bea or anyone for that matter especially on something like fashion, which isn’t hurting anyone. Can we also remember that this is art? Art pushes the edges and boundaries. It challenges us to examine and question our stereotypes, in this case our pre-conceived notions on body type and age and what you can do with one shirt. By the way, what does a hobo look like? As a social worker who has worked for over 20 years with people who are homeless I’d like to point out that, for the most part, they look just like you.
DeleteThe hobo look I was referring to is the Halloween costume type of hobo (or bum as some kids called it) that was popular when I was in elementary school - a kid in one of Dad's old dress shirts. This type of costume is probably no longer socially acceptable, but back in the 80's lots of kids went as a hobo for Halloween. I meant no disrespect to the homeless.
DeleteCourtney ....I was thinking the same thing as you were!
DeleteThough it's tempting to comment on the second paragraph, I will not. As for sweating in clothes (I sweat ALOT so I understand this concern) and packing for long trips: It's pretty common among long-term travelers to wash a few clothing items at night and hang them up so they will be dry in the morning before having to pack them up again, or wear them, then you can still go to a laundromat every once in a while but that allows you to minimize bringing clothes for every day of a 3 week or 6 week trip. I spent a month in Spain with little more than what Bea listed for her trip; I did bring rock climbing gear though :) But packing light on clothes that could be easily hang washed and dried quickly allowed me to still bring my climbing gear and fit it all in one medium sized backpack. Packing light is so freeing!
DeleteI love the look! It is very creative and trendy in a good way! My daughter and I have been checking every day to see Bea's look.
ReplyDeleteWhen you travel light, you wash out your clothes every night. They dry easily by morning if you take the right fabrics. I traveled to Italy-in the heat-with two shirts, one skirt, and one pant. I didn't stink.
My rule is that every piece of clothing has to be able to be worn in multiple ways. I love sundresses--they can be worn plain, or with a denim jacket, or with a blazer for work!
ReplyDeleteBea,
ReplyDeleteYou are a true inspiration!!!! I LOVE your 50 day experiment with wearing a man's shirt. Thank you for putting yourself "out there" to challenge and inspire us. Keep it up!!!!
I'm pregnant and trying to maintain a minimal wardrobe despite my growing belly. It's been a fun challenge and you've just inspired me to be even more creative instead of buying new clothes for the final month of pregnancy (I only own three things that fit me at the moment). If you can wear one shirt for 50 days, I can too! THANK YOU for the inspiration!!!!!
Peace and Love. :)
Vous devrez nous montrer en vidéo toutes les façons de plier une chemise! c'est vraiment réussi! juste une question : est-ce que la chemise est en coton? on dirait que non. merci!
ReplyDeleteI sincerely enjoy reading your blog and just wanted you to know that, at least for one person on earth (and I suspect for many, many others) you are effecting real change. I shop differently and think differently because of your blog. Keep up the good work.
ReplyDeleteThat idea is a good experiment, I think it was fun. This can be done by girl's on men's wear I don't men on girl's wear.
ReplyDeleteI really don't like the bow in the front. On the twitter pictures, the one where she has the shirt rolled up and is drinking a glass of wine - I don't think the way she has the shirt rolled around her neck and arms really works. I think it's a good idea, but definitely has limitations. However, if she feels good, in small matters like these, that's pretty much what's important.
ReplyDeleteAlso, how does she retain the brightness on the color of the shirt? Black tends to fade after a while. And you can really tell if you put it against a brand new black garment or stand next to someone who has a black garment on. White shirts also tend to get a yellowish look after a while.
I'm still going to try and see if I can pull off at least one look. :)
PS - I do like some of the other looks and I'm inspired to start sewing and taking a closer look at my wardrobe.
ReplyDeleteThis is awesome, Bea... thanks so much for sharing. Please post more pics of how you're wearing this shirt. I know it shows it in the video, but I'd like to see how you do it.
ReplyDeleteAlso, what about packing exercise clothes for working out? Do you do that in the men's shirt as well?
~Corinna
Just watched the video for this dress and immediately thought of you.
ReplyDeletehttp://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/wanderful/Covers-It-All-Dress?cc=8234&skuId=3450647&catId=wanderful
It is reversible and can be worn many different ways and it's perfect for you because you have a trim figure!!
Happy Summer!
We always take our family vacation at the end of summer season and return to fall/winter weather. We pack EXTREMELY light for the five weeks we are away. Around 12 items/person for our family of five. 2 each of tops, bottoms, unders, socks and layers/outerwear. All of our clothes fit into one carry-on. Because we return home to colder weather, everything we pack is donated BEFORE we leave our vacation spot. We return with virtually no clothing items and sometimes no footwear, wearing the items on the flight home that we can still use. This method works well if one can plan their trips during seasonal changes, but obviously won't work as well for those that reside in a moderate climate for the entire year. Our temperature variations in Alaska are drastic enough that this method of packing has worked for us for three years now. It's so great to make flight connections without lugging a bag through the airport!
ReplyDeleteI am curious of how many ways you have now worn the shirt? I was really impressed by the creativity of the video. You seem very creative in your own right. How did it go?
ReplyDeleteI've been enjoying your shirt experiment and find myself shocked- In a good way- by what you come up with. Did you find some styles to be too fussy? I think I'd be fixing my shirt all day. Also, I'm new (and addicted) to your blog. My husband discovered it doing research for his Garbology unit for his Summer's Leadership Science class. It's clear that I want to jump on board and immerse myself (and family) in living a zero waste life. The stuff around me has become overwhelming and anxiety inducing, even though I'm no pack rat...It's all just too much. I'm in the strategy stage and could use some guidelines. I'll continue to search while I begin de-cluttering. I will say that I make an honest effort to de-clutter several times a year. It all seems to creep back into the house. I'm asking myself- What am I doing wrong? I'll continue to search your site for guidelines. Thanks for your work. Enjoy your vacation!
ReplyDeleteTips. Got it. :)
DeleteJust looked through all your twitter pictures -- I am so impressed! I need to be more creative with my clothes. I am waiting for my Versalette to come (http://revolutionapparel.is/pages/making-versatile-apparel) -- but kicking myself now because I spent $80 for that, while you are doing the same thing with a 99 cent shirt!
ReplyDeleteJust saw your tank top version today. How did you do that? It appears to have shoulder straps but where did they come from - the sleeves are tied around your waist? Will you be including instructions for all this folding and twisting of a shirt in your book? Will you be sending your shirt to the Smithsonian? Seriously, this has been a fascinating and wonderfully creative project. Please give us a follow-up on it!
ReplyDeleteHi Bea,
ReplyDeleteI love your blog! You and your family are such an inspiration! Thank you for all of your posts. :)
Alli
Hi Bea, I love reading your blog and it's really encouraging me to start de-cluttering my flat. One thing that has puzzled me though is the clothes. I have to admit that I'm not hugely interested in clothes and my wardrobe isn't particularly well stocked. My aim is to pare it down to a capsule wardrobe that I can mix and match with little effort. My main question though is do you not ever sweat or get dirty?? I live in the UK, so not a hugely hot climate, but I have a hilly 2mile (each way) walk to work and back. There is no way that any top of mine could be worn two days in a row, is there a trick I am missing here? Judging by your lists of clothes you must have to wear things multiple times between wash days.
ReplyDeletethis series is SOOO fun! Thank-you! I'm thoroughly inspired!!!
ReplyDeleteThis series is really cool. Thanks for the inspiring looks! I love your blog and am missing your regular posts! I really like when you post about daily life things like menus, housekeeping, errand schedules, laundry, etc. It helps me to see how I can tweek my family's routines in small ways that will help us on our waste-less and less-waste challenge. So many of the small changes that I have implemented into our lives since starting to read your blog a year or so ago have become regular routine so that we never even notice them anymore. It has helped our trash output and our wallet! Thank you!!!!
ReplyDeleteBonjour Française, j'habite près de Paris et j'aime me promener sur les blogs déco etc. Je ne pratique pas la langue anglaise donc utilise la traduction google - qui est surprenante qqfois- Je constate que les jeunes ménagères Américaines découvrent les principes de vie frugale pratiqués chez nous depuis toujours. Cela est enfin bon pour la planète. Bonne continuation. Michèle
ReplyDeleteVery nice, thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteyou look great in that black shirt/shirt...please show how you mae that bow so pretty..
ReplyDeleteBéa, your blog and advice have been a wonderful inspiration and impetus to empower my family toward a zero waste lifestyle. I have enjoyed your "summer series" on the incredible array of stylish outfits created from one simple black shirt—merci mille fois!
ReplyDeleteHey that was amazing... Thanks for sharing some cool tips and good ideas.
ReplyDeleteHow are things going? I miss your updates!
ReplyDelete-Amanda
Hi Bea, I am hoping that you will put all the picture together once you are back and let us know how you achieve those looks. What an inspiring one.
ReplyDeleteThat is a great list, the bow is really very nice.
ReplyDeleteHi Bea, It would be interesting if you could discuss what you've observed about women's fashion in France. It seems to me in the U.S. that people in Europe own fewer clothes that are more high quality, yet they probably pay a bit more for it. A good way to minimize relying on cheap disposable clothes.
ReplyDeleteHi Bea, I am expecting that you will put all the image together once you are returning and let us know how you accomplish those looks. What an motivating one.
ReplyDeleteBea, I tried finding you on FB (these comments seem to indicate you have a FB page - I'm not a stalker, honest!) so that I could see your 50 ways of wearing the men's shirt but I couldn't find you. There are too many people with your name!
ReplyDeleteI hope you update soon. Missing my zero home updates!
Hi Bea, I just found this link and thought it might work with your striped shirt. Love all of your outfits.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.jaynsarah.com/2011/12/8-second-skirt-with-bow-diy.html
Hey, Bea - This has been an amazing fashion series while you write your book. I can hardly wait to see it published! Please finish it soon (I will buy multiple copies!) and come back to blogging us - I MISS YOU! - Jan
ReplyDeleteSo cute !! Who would have thought!
ReplyDeleteI know you hate to buy new, but I saw these sandals and thought of this post. 30 ways to wear shoes!
ReplyDeletehttp://ssekodesigns.com/style/
Bea, are you planning on releasing your book only in digital format? I am excited about seeing it, too, but feel that it would be the height of hypocrisy for you to publish it in anything other than digital format. Just curious about your plans!
ReplyDeleteIf Bea and her publisher decide to offer hardcopy books, I don't think that would be the height of hypocrisy at all. Not everyone has easy, ready access to the technology needed to read digital books and offering a hardcopy book means they can be made available in libraries (some libraries also offer digital book check-out now, but certainly not all). And hardcopy books can be purchased and passed on and shared among friends and families (which is the route I'd go if I end up purchasing her book). Digital is a option for those who look to reduce their consumption of goods, but not the only option.
DeleteI am 20 something year old. Who choices not to use Kindle or Nook. I don't like them I have tryed them both. But I like reading the old fashion not on a ebook. Plus there people out there who can't buy ebooks cuz they don't money. But they can go to there local library to check out a book.
DeleteI believe that sometimes it is difficult to know what is really best for the environment.
DeleteeReaders can save many trees right now, it is true. But what about the environmental cost in 10+ years, when the eReader stops working, or is obsolete? The metals and chemicals required to manufacture the chips and boards that reside in all electronic devices are highly toxic, non-recyclable, and have extraordinarily long half-lives.
While modern books are bound with glue (which is toxic), the majority of a book is paper. While paper does not degrade as quickly as most believe, and while recycling paper usually results in "down-cylcing", it is still better for the environment than the electronics graveyard we will soon face.
Environmental issues are complex, and never black and white. I just wanted to throw in my 2 cents about electronics, because their danger does not have a lot of publicity right now, since everyone is excited about the idea of going "paperless".
I agree with other readers that publishing in print is not an act of hypocrisy. I believe books are a means of bringing information to the masses and not all folks own e-Readers, and there is still waste associated with them. Print on demand services actually make paper books far less wasteful in the long term, I believe.
DeleteThat's a really cool idea!! Actually I found another video on youtube the other day about wearing a shirt 30 different ways, you can check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7QDyq4Ea2M&feature=relmfu
ReplyDeleteI hope it helps!
A Unique and cool attire high school sports wear. That was perfect for my school previously.
ReplyDelete"A woman must not put on men's clothing, and a man must not wear women's clothing. Anyone who does this is detestable in the sight of the LORD your God.
ReplyDeleteShe is not dressing like a man. She has taken a piece of men's clothing and made it into women's wear. No one would look at her and think she is a man. I believe that is what the Scripture is forbidding in intent.
DeleteI really don't think that the LORD cares what you wear. He has bigger things to worry about.
DeleteWhat a yahoo.
DeleteHope your summer was great and that you get back to posting soon! (:
ReplyDeleteInteresting post...
ReplyDeleteHi Bea, I'd love to see a post on electronic waste, especially since modern products such as computers, MP3 players, etc are made to expire, yet are crucial to reducing waste in other areas (such as going paperless with bills, etc).
ReplyDeleteThanks.
I've just found your blog and read it through from start to finish. My partner is almost qualified in Engineering and we're hoping that we can adapt some parts of this lifestyle to make our burden on the Earth a little less.
ReplyDeleteHere are the changes I've made just today
- Baked homemade cookies for his snacks over the week
- Made homemade toasted muesli (all ingredients bought in bulk with re-usable bags) and now stored in labelled jars
- Dug a vegetable pit in my veggie garden for compost
- Made a recycling corner on the opposite side of my kitchen bench near the door. A reusable cardboard box to hold paper, plastics, cartons. A wicker basket to hold glass beer bottles. A canvas pouch to hold little things such as clothes tags. I've arranged in all on a little wooden bench with saved jars, a couple of potted plants and clean folded tea towels. It looks pretty :)
- Made a plan to make homemade muesli bars for uni snacks - to save money, and packaging inside packaging.
- Looked up methods for fabric drawstring bags for bulk items (ones the cashier can open quickly to see what is inside). I think pillowcases are in the lead...
- Vowed that once my baking goods are depleted (and their paper bags recycled) that I will buy flour, salt sugar, polenta, etc in bulk from the most amazing little place just around the corner from me. So fortunate for that little place.
- Made plans for tomorrow to include a trip to a local thrift shop down the road (to look for jars, good quality reusable containers) and to go to a local recycling centre for some larger bins for flour and other similar organisation things!
The aim at the beginning is to get down to one small garbage bag a week.
We live in Australia, and do not have access to as many bulk items (such as liquids). But from now on we'll be more conscious to buy things in glass bottles that can be recycled, and just try to reduce packaging overall.
Also buying meat is tricky because we are students we can't really afford to buy from butchers. BUT we are reducing our meat intake to 4 times a week so this will help.
The bulk store I mentioned before also has a deli, so I can take a container to get sliced ham put into, and cheese depending on financials (it's usually reeeally expensive).
While we'll get no where close to zero... We hope to reduce alot, and while I know recycling isn't the solution, it's the best we can do at the moment.
Im already feeling like life is becoming a lot more meaningful...
thank you
Aimee
I nominated you for The Versatile Blogger award! (http://purposefullysimple.wordpress.com/2012/09/14/the-versatile-blogger-award-2/)
ReplyDeleteThanks for such a great resource!
whoops, I don't know why it posted like that :/
DeleteHoping you will post again soon!
ReplyDeleteBonjour Bea, I miss your posts!
ReplyDeletePLEASE GIVE US A HINT - WHEN WILL YOU BE BACK???
ReplyDeletewaiting for your next post
ReplyDeletewww.gotapparel.com
Hi Bea,
ReplyDeleteYou and your family are a huge inspiration to my family's life. I saw this video of a gentleman that lives with minimum possessions, and thought you would enjoy it.
http://faircompanies.com/videos/view/non-possession-seeking-intense-simplicity-and-good-life/
Looking forward to seeing your future posts and book!
Amanda, NYC
Hi Bea,
ReplyDeleteI noticed that the links (in orange) in your articles turned black after they're clicked. After that you can't really tell if they're links or if they're part of the body copy text. I think you should leave them colored before and after being clicked so they can stand out as links. Anyway, it's just a little something that you can fix to optimize readership :o)
Best,
Shawn
Oh wow! That looks cool. Thanks for sharing. I want to try this out.
ReplyDeleteHow sweet can it get. What a great bunch of ideas.
ReplyDeleteI bet that is a Van Heusen Dress shirt
ReplyDeleteHi, Love the idea of wring your shirt 50 different ways. A couple years ago I went to Spain for 5 weeks, I took a 21 litre backpack as a carry on, can't remember what was in it, not much, however I only had 1 pair of shoes? This year we are going to Britain, I'll be using the same pack and I'll have 2 pair of shoes ballerina flats, and trail runners that I'll use for hiking. I'm enjoying your blog.:)
ReplyDelete