So I really don't remember when I finished this skirt because I've worn it so many times. I finally made something work appropriate and my co-workers loved it and I absolutely adore it. I traced a size 38 and no pattern alterations were necessary - it fit just right.
I purchased this fabric with the gift card from Gorgeous Fabrics Mimi G sent me. It has some elastene in it so its perfect for long hours at a desk.
Over all I'm a SERIOUS BWOF convert. Their silhouettes are so refreshing and aside from the whole tracing ordeal haven't found my self requiring much fitting time....I'm in love....but not convinced enough to pay for the subscription, lol.
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So I alluded to something earlier I just want get back to it. I CAME OUT THE CLOSET AT MY JOB ....the couture closet that is. I mentioned to a co-worker that I sew and she ran me down the following week to be featured in a "celebrating our own series" which celebrates the talent of our colleagues. I actually brought in my work and was interviewed Oprah style in front of a room of men and women employees. and to my surprise the organizer contacted my boss' boss to come in. He couldn't make it he so he sent some kinds word about me that was read out loud. Later on, in a mini town hall my boss' boss' boss mentioned my talent's recognitions in front of all the people in my division..... I was flattered and half way mortified.Ok that was a mouthful but this was a huge day for me. I chose the title of by blog as statement and proclamation that you can have your cake and eat it too. We can pursue a fab career yet not suppresses our domestic desires..revel in them even. But before that day I only considered my audience ..you, the creative person...wherever you are who might be inspired to pick up a piece of something and make something after a long day with the kids...long day of lectures...or the crazy work day because you are worth your OWN time to explore You!
This is my philosophy, my mantra. however I forgot something. My audience is actually everyone I ever have the fortune to connect with, including my co-workers AND managers. Because I work at a large investment bank (stiff suits, old boys club, etc) I suppressed my girly side at work in fear that people would take me less seriously. So much so, that I wouldn't even share a drop of emotion when my Honnie called me. And I especially did not have ANY intention on sharing my after hour activities.
However, Cindy's expose did the very opposite of damage. People felt like that knew more about me and I had an entry point into conversation with so many people. Slowly but surely I dropped my barriers and embraced just being myself at work. Since I have convinced 2 people to explore their creative side in a new way and the kicker...I'm so much more confident and proud of my work (in and out of the office).
This happened the week of my B-Day but I wanted to share after the dust had settled. :-)
15 comments :
How awesome is that?!? LOVE your skirt!
Sounds like an awesome experience. I do embrace my creative side and my co-workers know about it too. I agree in does open conversation doors with many people.
Oh and Happy Belated Birthday too! That's if I am late! LOL!
What an incredible and rewarding experience. Cute skirt and happy birthday.
Ooh I love your skirt! That was the only one that really grabbed me from the May issue and it's so good to see it sewn up, thanks!
And congrats on the work recognition! Don't shy away from your talents - be proud! :)
Cute skirt! What a fantastic thing at your job!
Love the skirt. I also love Burda. Congrats on your recognition. I told a few people at my office, but told them to keep it to themselves
Wonderful post! Great birthday reading, too (today is mine!). I once worked for a legal publishing firm, and as people I worked with saw me wearing the clothing i had made, they began to suspect aloud that I had other aspirations... But then again, they were right! (smile)
Congrats on the recognition of your creativity on your job. I think you deserve it from seeing the garments you make.
Congratulations on your recongnition at work. Go ahead an get a BWOF subcription. You can get a 3 month trial subcription for $18. You can call GLP international at (201)871-1010, fax at (201)871-0870 or email at info@glpnews.com. They advertise this offer in Threads mag.
That is so wonderful!That was a great day for you!
What an awesome recognition. Happy Belated Birthday.
Love the skirt. Great story, Cindy. I can totally relate to being careful not to be too girly at work. Happy Belated Birthday!
Congratulations on coming out at work! I'm a lawyer, so I totally understand your fear for your career, but good taste and style (whether made or purchased) can also be a boon at our high-power jobs. My ability to think creatively and abstractly has certainly helped in my "daytime" life. Hopefully you'll find that to be true on Wall Street.
-Nneka
That is a fantastic story. From one former girly-side supressor to another, here's hoping even more people get in touch with their creativity.
Ha. Late to the party, but as a fellow strachy-professional - congratulations! At my work we have a mentoring system, and when I finally confessed to mentor that I knit in my spare time, she told me that there is an office knitting/ embroidery group, that she organises! It's not secret, but it's not publicised either. And another (male) colleague has been learning to knit off me, since he saw me knitting outside work time, and we're taking sewing classes together. Being out of the closet has definitely been more fun.
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