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Joyce Young's avatar

I really enjoyed reading this, Dera! As someone raised in the 50’s and 60’s by Southerners, we were taught to dress for the occasion.

And Easter Sunday was always the day that ladies wore their new hats to church. My cousin and I couldn’t wait to see whose hat would be the biggest or have the largest feathers. We would determine the ‘winner’ after much discussion. We were just being kids 😂

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Dera R Williams's avatar

I knew you would understand Joyce. The Easter hats was the real Easter show.

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Joyce Young's avatar

They sure were!

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Florence's avatar

I loved this. Keep it up!

Flo

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Tara Christina's avatar

I love the imagery Dera, especially when you talk about your upbringing and how your mother dressed.

I love dressing up, I don’t always do it however. But if it’s a special occasion, I make sure I’m dressed in the requested attire.

I’m happy that a lot of churches have adopted the come as you are philosophy, it’s important.

I do think some folks have gotten way too relaxed when it comes to nice events, daily life period. I think PJ’s, bonnets, etc look tacky outside the house. But, people gonna be who they are and I just let it go. Their life, their bodies, their choices. I think it’s tacky, but they may feel good about themselves so it’s up to them.

Thank you so much for talking about the history of Black folks and fashion. It’s valuable.

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Dera R Williams's avatar

Hi Tara. Thanks for your words. I like dressing up. It seems to go in spurts. I might have 2-3 weekends in a row, and then nothing for a month or two. When I go to dinner with friends, I might spice things a little, so that I can wear something I haven't worn in a while or not at all.

I have seen you in your dress attire at some of your Cape Verdean events. You are right, so many have gotten relaxed. Dress to the occasion is what I always say. I'm with you with the bonnets and pjs in public. Cringey.

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