OverDressed for Life

There’s no reason not to be chic about our Inauguration Day Black.

Many Americans are dreading the upcoming Inauguration Day on January 20, 2017. The idea of Donald Trump as our president is … sickening.

So what are we to do? How can we cope?

Since this is a fashion blog, let’s talk about what to wear.

As far as I’m concerned the inauguration of Trump as our 45th president (it hurts to write that) is a day to mourn the loss of sane, rational, and fair leadership.

One way to communicate our sorrow and disagreement is to wear black.

Sporting black during periods of loss and grief dates back to Roman times. But it was the growing middle class in the Victorian era that made it an art form with lots of added rules and protocol. Queen Victoria remained in mourning wearing primarily black clothing and jewelry for decades after the death of her husband Prince Albert.

Go casual chic in black a la Audrey Hepburn.

What black can do for us on January 20th is provide a quiet but visible sign that we DO NOT support Trump and his nasty agenda. I think the image of people going about their day in all black – at work or perhaps protesting – will be a very powerful bonding experience and it is a way for all of us to participate.

Additionally what can we do on the day? Many people are working and I think that’s the best thing. Be productive! Otherwise:

• There is a call to boycott all media covering the inauguration. Trump loves attention and high ratings – don’t give it to him!
• Write a check to an organization under attack. I will support independent radio station, KPFA.
• Volunteer for a local organization.
• Go for a walk and show off your black ensemble.
• Create art.
• Read.

Please share this post on FB and elsewhere. Spread the word, tell all your friends.

Come on, let’s take a stand together and paint the day in black!