I am aware of the irony in this request but what would you wear to....

[tulpe]

.......... an open day for a fashion & design course?

Here is the scenario: after 11 years being SAHM have finally decided to make my interest in style & fashion an actual occupation .

Am 40, size 8 and whilst I am generally very confident about my style choices, I am suddenly thrown into a quandry. Don't want to look "try hard" but don't want to look like I haven't bothered either. Am also aware that I am likely to be surrounded by desperately cool teens applying for same course.

My usual style is either skinnies, tees, jackets & scarf or vintage 50's dresses.

I know it isn't an interview but I want to grab as much time with a lecturer as possible as have lots of questions etc and obviously first impressions count.

I think a big contributory factor to my "wobble" with this is that I haven't worked in over 11 years and am having something of a confidence crisis.

You obviously know about fashion so you are prob v. stylish anyway. I would wear whatever makes you feel confident and fabulous casual/dressed up/anything goes here i would think.

Imagine you are advising someone else about what to wear in this situation - if you depersonalise it you may be able to decide more easily.

Good luck!

Thanks FauxFox. You are so absolutely right about the de-personalise issue. As I was proof-reading my post I was considering what response I would give to someone else :)

It really is just the fact that there is a subtext of "I am applying for this course because, as you can see, I am an incredibly stylish person and can dictate what others should wear"!!

Yes but is that really so? Viv Westwood looks like a crazy bag lady and makes gorgeous clothes for example - it's her confidence that is important.

Well, what would I know, but it sounds as though you could just channel Emmanuelle Alt...

LOL at Dame Viv as crazy bag lady! You are absolutely right. And I always think that Isobel Marant looks like she could do with a quick tidy up (although love her work), Galliano always looks like he needs a damn good wash and don't even get me started on the weirdness that is Kaiser Karl........

herecomesthsun - brilliant. That is my look - very french, tousled hair, looks like she just threw it on at the last minute.

I wear vintage in the same vein. Nothing costume-like. Just a beautiful dress with scruffy hair and an everyday cardi.

Ah, am feeling grounded once more.

Thank you :)

Would definitely try and personalise something, even if it is just a broach on your blazer. But the fact that you created something that you are wearing shows your individuality. Also wearing a vintage piece will show that you are not following any particular trend. It will set you apart from the teans! You know what you are doing
.

oops teens

Thanks PinkOlives and great advice on adding personal touch :)

Good luck Tulpe. Your usual style sounds great. Stand tall and smile you will be excellent!

I would say to go for the vintage - its different to the norm and you'll stand out (in a good way ie. you're an individual, not following the herd IYSWIM).

I know someone who recently went to an interview wearing vintage (1930s ish IIRC) and she got the job.

no probs, you sound like you are very stylish, let us know how you get on, great you are going for your dream.

So I wore vintage :)

Tea dress covered in violet roses, violet cardi, leggings and ballet flats.

Was very inspired by both the tutor and the examples of work they had on show. Very broad course incorporating photography, illustration, styling, textile production as well as design and dressmaking. You build your portfolio over the 2 years with a view to going on to uni or seeking employment and working your way through the system.

Because I am already a graduate (got my first degree 16 years ago) I was told I will probably get an unconditional offer - which I am thrilled about :) But am trying to be calm about it because I won't believe it until I have the letter of invitation

Thank you all for your input. Twas greatly appreciated :)

well done tulpe