This all started, as many ideas do, with a craving for something that doesn’t exist. Designers often say they make the clothes that are missing from their wardrobe. This is, more or less, the same idea. Except, instead of clothes, this is about conversation. Fashion writing is, traditionally, pretty superfluous. Trends, styling, celebrity looks…we live, in the main, in the narrow fantasy world of aesthetics. But it is naive to pretend that what we choose to clothe ourselves with day to day has no effect beyond ourselves. Designers know it, and you do too.
So let’s talk about that.
Sure, clothing’s important. It’s our most obvious form of expression, a chance to outwardly manifest what we want to say to the world. And it’s fun. But what effect does what we wear have on the world around us? When we buy a garment, we cast a vote in support of that brand, and that brand’s values. An outfit is more than its face value. How do we consume intelligently and what does a world of intelligent fashion look like?
I’ll be honest, I don’t know. That’s why I’m here—to highlight those conversations and shine a light on designers and brands who are trying to answer those questions in their work.
But…..why “Salad Dressing?”
The name came to me by way of a friend who has this bright green, frilly Isabel Marant Étoile top. She calls wearing it “dressing like lettuce.” I thought it was funny, but, INTJ that I am, I immediately began examining the esoteric qualities of a good salad: separate components that dialog with each other, plenty of nutrients, fresh seasoning, and something flavorful to tie it all together. And that’s how I want to talk about fashion—from various perspectives, in a healthy way that examines ethical consumerism, and while having fun.
What won’t you find on Salad Dressing? Celebrity profiles, sponsored posts, clothes for purchase, “date night” outfits (dress for yourself, not your s/o), fad diets, and anything along the lines of “I Tried [insert crazy trend] for a Week and It Changed My Life.” If that bums you out, this might not be the place for you.
What will we talk about on Salad Dressing? Well, a lot of that is up to you. Check out my most recent posts on the blog page, or browse by category from the homepage. And if there’s something you want to talk about, send me a message. This is your conversation, too. So grab a drink—I wouldn’t say no to a cheese plate, either—and welcome to Salad Dressing: a healthy fashion blog.
Cheers,
Hannah