Where has the sunshine gone?
As i write this the wind is battering our balcony door windows, looking out onto the rough sea waves as the rain falls diagonally from the gloomy sky. A world away from the sun kissed landscape in the pictures below. This week has been significant in a number of ways; significant changes in weather, significant steps towards regaining normality amidst a global pandemic, and significant culturally as the Black Lives Matter movement takes the moment that it deserves. I'm not going to preach, admittedly and embarrassingly, I don't know enough and its not my place - nor do I want it to be - there are so many more talented and knowledgable individuals out there who can do it far more justice than I ever could. But as with so many others, I continue to listen and to learn and to strive for a better future.
It seems insignificant at this time to even comprehend discussing the material matter of a beautiful Summer dress, which is what this post was originally planned to be about. Its premium quality, flattering silhouette and gorgeous broderie anglaise detailing, all contribute to this sold out style's must have appeal. But although I love this dress and this series of images, I've decided to change my perspective on them, and see them as much more than a tool to promote the latest trend.
Instead, let's think about the power of escapism and taking that all important time to breathe. With everything that is going on at the moment, it can be difficult to listen to the points that actually matter; so much noise to hear, but what do you actually listen in to? Sometimes we need to take time to digest all of the information that we have at our finger tips in the simple tap of an app; tweets, statuses, news reports and even blogs, all drilling into us a mixture of facts and opinion on which we need to base our own beliefs. It can be a lot to take in.
So don't be ashamed to feel the need to escape at times. We all do. Escapism comes in so many forms, you need to find what works for you. Some people throw themselves into a new project or deeper into their work to block out the rest of the world, others lose themselves in the pages of their favourite novel or film scenes. For some it's a walk along the coast, sandy toes dipped in the (freezing) sea or wandering country roads surrounded by nature's seasonal new arrivals. And then there are those of us who just need to put on a pretty dress, do our hair and make up and go somewhere - anywhere.
However you find your escape, don't be afraid to take it. It's not about running away from things, in escaping for a while, you are not turning your back on the trials of real life, or hiding away from important issues, but rather giving yourself time to digest what is going on and to discover what your own true thoughts and opinions are on the matter (or matters) in hand. Look after yourself and your mind, don't overload it.
At this time, more than ever, it is important that we listen and learn, but also that we digest, reflect and above all,
take time to breathe.
