Why You Should Wear Your Nicest Clothes (If You Want To)

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  • Опубліковано 28 вер 2023
  • Choosing to wear your nicest clothes every day (if you want to) can feel like a scary decision, but these are the reasons why doing so has played into an even bigger shift in my life.
    Wearing my nicest clothing, and by nicest I mean the clothing that is the most meaningful and significant to me, has taught me endless lessons about living in the present moment, connecting with that which we love now and today, and also letting things go when it is their time to go.
    Thank you so much for watching and I'll see you all in 2 weeks for another video!
    🕯 Support my art on Patreon - / vbirchwood
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 160

  • @VBirchwood
    @VBirchwood  9 місяців тому +121

    I've had such a challenging year (which has thankfully recently been greatly improving). Leaning into treasuring and cherishing each little moment of beauty, which for me can be as simple as wearing a garment that truly means something (my "nicest" garments) has felt like such a gift and has brought so much joy. I hope that this video might resonate with some of you because you deserve to also feel the joy in the day-to-day things, no matter how small they are 😊
    Just a reminder that by "nicest" I mean the most meaningful to you, _not_ the most expensive.
    I hope you are all doing well! Thanks for watching and see you in two weeks for another video.

    • @leaf2576
      @leaf2576 9 місяців тому +3

      I can really relate--my year has also been challenging (I'm so happy yours has been improving! Mine has too!) and it is the smallest joys that shine out through the darkness as I look back on it. Those brief moments appreciating nature, sharing laughter with friends, and the proud feeling of wearing something I crafted with my own hands, are all what got me through it. It's so good to hear you talk about it in a video. I hope it inspires others to search for those little lights in the darkness.

    • @plan2441
      @plan2441 9 місяців тому +1

      PLEASE even if its only aqua, could you comment on your skin care routine?

    • @janeevans4758
      @janeevans4758 9 місяців тому +1

      Sorry to hear you've had a challenging year.
      Your beautiful clothing that you craft are truly wonderful and deserve to be worn at every opportunity and of course how wonderful they must feel to know you have lovingly made each item,stitch by stitch!
      They are far to fabulous to be tucked away and the joy it brings you in wearing them is I'm sure the pleasure it brings others in seeing such wonderful clothing.
      I really hope your days,weeks,months, years ahead are filled with splendour & happiness.
      Sending positive thoughts to you and yours.

    • @LadyMcGinnis
      @LadyMcGinnis 9 місяців тому

      You only live once. Enjoy it while its here

  • @BurhanBayhan
    @BurhanBayhan 9 місяців тому +206

    “Part of the beauty being alive is also letting things go when it’s their time to go.” So beautifully said! 🍃

    • @VBirchwood
      @VBirchwood  9 місяців тому +6

      Thank you ☺️☺️☺️

  • @foxgloved8922
    @foxgloved8922 9 місяців тому +89

    My grandma gave my parents a set of fancy wedgewood dishes for their wedding. My mom said, “Mildred what am I going to do with these?” And she responded: “well honey, eat on them!”

    • @VBirchwood
      @VBirchwood  8 місяців тому +14

      That's the spirit! hahaha

  • @piccalillipit9211
    @piccalillipit9211 9 місяців тому +142

    *THIS IS THE TIP THAT CHANGED MY LIFE* I had hand-sewn several bespoke suits, hundreds and hundreds of hours and I never wore them, I was too scared of damaging them.
    MAKE A PINNEFORE - a big Victorian style pinafore with lots of fabric and gathers that wraps around you and a big bib that covers you up, this way you dont spill tea on it, you dont get food down you, you dont get grease splatters. Having a pinafore I could slip on whilst cooking or doing any dirty job allowed me to wear my sits every day...

    • @Call-me-Al
      @Call-me-Al 9 місяців тому +15

      To use a fictional example, in the TV show Torchwood there was a guy who always always wore a suit. And he did similarly when he had to do anything dirty: wore an apron or other protective clothing over it, rolled up his sleeves, sometimes wore nitrile or latex gloves, and so on. It was delightful. Because he wouldn't need those things for office work, but if he had to deal with cleaning, or any weird artifacts, or autopsies, or the like, then using a suit without protection isn't great and instead of just using movie magic to explain how his suits usually were flawless they made him dress for the occasions with his suits.

    • @lc4n333
      @lc4n333 9 місяців тому +7

      This is why I love trench coats! Very protective, (arguably) versatile for all seasons, and of course so stylish. I can wear a suit everyday without worry.

  • @AshLG
    @AshLG 9 місяців тому +87

    Developing my repair skills really helped me with this - it’s a lot easier to feel ok with the idea of your nice clothes getting damaged when you feel confident you can do something about it!

    • @VBirchwood
      @VBirchwood  9 місяців тому +19

      Such an important point to bring up! This is why I really think of mending as essential as leaning to do our taxes. It’s a skill that could benefit anyone that wears clothing.

  • @bohemiansusan2897
    @bohemiansusan2897 9 місяців тому +44

    My take is that I dress to please myself. Been many days where "where getting dressed up" helped get me out of a downward funk. Doesn't matter if folks tell me I wasted money or whatever as I don't have any place to wear said outfits. Wrong!
    These days I appear to be overdressed at the symphony, ballet or opera. Doesn't matter because I am enjoying wearing my clothes and it makes me feel alive. It is a cliche to say that life is too short but oh well. It is and a few near death experiences with my health that I will dress for myself and celebrate life to the fullest. My clothes are my way. 😊

    • @debcomly2481
      @debcomly2481 9 місяців тому +1

      I feel the same way !!!

  • @AnneS508
    @AnneS508 8 місяців тому +11

    You are wise beyond your years. I am 63 years old and have only recently learned this and I'm still working on implementing it. My favorite clothes have either gone out of style or no longer fit me but are still in perfect condition because I saved them. What a waste. Then I was diagnosed with breast cancer this past Spring, I realized that no one can count on living a long life. Why not enjoy what we have now? BTW, the cancer was small and the prognosis is good and the experience has taught me a lesson.

    • @grizeldaxxx4568
      @grizeldaxxx4568 8 місяців тому

      Ann that is the perfect reason to celebrate every day!!! 💓

  • @snuassauns
    @snuassauns 9 місяців тому +52

    Older clothing was designed to be used and used up.
    Fabric was expensive and the thought of cutting up a piece of it must have been difficult.
    We might look at pintucking as an element to add details but I think it was to keep their options open later. Pintucks could be taken out when the wearer gained weight or during pregnancy.
    When the item no longer served its purpose. The large piece of cloth could be remade into some other item.

  • @AdelaideBeemanWhite
    @AdelaideBeemanWhite 9 місяців тому +17

    I have some expensive beeswax candles that I’ve been saving. When it’s time for me to replace my bedside candle, I’m going to use one of them.

    • @VBirchwood
      @VBirchwood  9 місяців тому +7

      That’s the spirit!! I just lit a “fancy” beeswax candle last night too. We’re together in beeswax spirit ☺️

  • @GlobalTrendsCycles
    @GlobalTrendsCycles 9 місяців тому +16

    I realized years ago that by "saving" the beautiful clothes I've made and collected to be worn only for some special events might not work out the way I thought. Any of us could die tomorrow (or today!), and then all those great clothes will probably end up at the thrift store, and some young girl will buy one of your garments for $5, and she'll wear every day - so why let someone else have all that fun and you miss out? As a friend once said to me about this issue: "I stopped saying, oh, that blouse is for a 'good' event - but Good Never Comes." So wear it now!

  • @ragnkja
    @ragnkja 9 місяців тому +64

    One thing I really love about the sweaters I’ve knit myself is that I have leftover yarn that I can use to mend them whenever they need it. The first one lasted almost four years of regular wear before I needed to reinforce the left sleeve cuff (somehow that one always seems to get more wear than the right), and it was a fairly easy repair job that’s almost invisible even on close inspection and certainly won’t stand out to the casual observer.

    • @VBirchwood
      @VBirchwood  9 місяців тому +9

      I love this 😊 mended garments also have a very special feeling to them.

  • @melissamybubbles6139
    @melissamybubbles6139 9 місяців тому +19

    Despite my depression I made myself get a shower and wash my hair. That was at least an effort. Tomorrow maybe I'll wear a nice outfit for at least part of the day even though it's Sunday. On Monday I'll definitely wear the new supportive bra. I've never had one before and I like it.

    • @katarzynamarzec2291
      @katarzynamarzec2291 8 місяців тому

      I hope that it is better now. at least a little

    • @violetiolite
      @violetiolite 8 місяців тому

      I hope you're doing things that make you happy!
      I also struggle with depression so I'm on medication and have a therapist. I'm way better now thankfully and what I can tell you is that wearing what you like and not worrying about what others might think of it makes your life better.
      Just wearing what you like can make you more confident and happy. 💜
      Water what you like, go eat something you enjoy, go to the park... Even if you might not feel like it it will most likely make you feel better.
      I wish you a lovely day and let's all do our best everyday (and do our best doesn't mean to be perfect! So just trying is good)

  • @amandasunshine2
    @amandasunshine2 8 місяців тому +4

    I was abused and often made to feel like I didn't deserve nice things. I only wear baggy t-shirts. This is a nice reminder for me. ❤

  • @flowerboy7810
    @flowerboy7810 9 місяців тому +10

    "Why love what you will lose?
    There is nothing else to love."
    Louise Gluck

  • @katehenry2718
    @katehenry2718 9 місяців тому +7

    I love every excuse to wear my 18c housewife's clothes. They get patched and redyed. All but the chemises are nearly 40 years old, those about 30. They don't go to the grocery or the bank unless I'm on my way to a demo or the way back. I spend a good share of my waking time in the garden so there's garden grubbys and garden shoes. I do use the "good" china for breakfast, and my own handwoven blankets instead of store-bought.... had a discussion with myself about those. My own were folded in the closet and crummy storeboughts were on the bed. Changed THAT in a hurry. Store-boughts go inside upholstery and such. It gives me almost as much pleasure to see a quilt on the frame in progress as it does on the bed. Thanks for your video. We need a good jolt now and then to remind us we need the beauty around us.

    • @ragnkja
      @ragnkja 9 місяців тому +2

      Lovely blankets belong where they can be enjoyed in some way, not in a closet where you can’t even see them.

  • @witch532
    @witch532 9 місяців тому +7

    You mentioned wearing clothes far to mended and threadbare to wear again. This reminds me of the old west where cowboys had only the clothes on their back to wear while on a cattle drive. When they got to their destination, most would take a bath and buy new clothes for the ride home and burn their old clothes. Often times most people had no more than two sets of clothes. One set for everyday and sometimes another set for church or formal gatherings. Rather interesting.

  • @Fenomka
    @Fenomka 9 місяців тому +38

    Thank you so much for the sentiment and message of this video. I got back into making my own clothes in 2020 because I needed something to really help pull me out of my severe depression in the midst of the isolation happening in the world. I hadn't been sewing in such a long time, and had resigned myself to being stuck with fashion that didn't fit and left me feeling very frumpy and uncomfortable (I'm a large woman, and oddly shaped, making finding clothing that fits very difficult). I decided that I wanted to transition my wardrobe to largely history bound/history inspired clothing, because it's more comfortable for me, and I feel more confident and attractive in it. When the world started opening back up, I started wearing my clothing out in the world. Everything happening in the world has been so scary, but I'm surviving it, and I deserve to celebrate the life I have, the breath I'm breathing RIGHT NOW. For me, a really fun and helpful way to visibly celebrate was to put on my party clothes. It's been so joyful and cathartic, seeing each project as I finish it, and how much my ability has grown. I've learned to really love hand sewing which is something I was very afraid of, when I first started sewing, but now I've finished at least three garments that are predominantly sewn by hand. With a room full of fabric, almost everything I've mad has been pulled from my stash or has been modifications of stuff I made a long time ago but never wore because I hadn't understood what I was trying to make at the time. I love wearing my fancy clothes, and while I don't have enough to do it every day yet, I'm working on it!

    • @VBirchwood
      @VBirchwood  9 місяців тому +2

      Thank you so much for sharing your story! I love this 😊

  • @Noel.Chmielowiec
    @Noel.Chmielowiec 9 місяців тому +7

    I don't own many 'fancier' clothes, but the things I wear the most are made by me. They fit me the best, have the best fabric, and sometimes I'm worried what would happen if I tear the fabric or something happens. Then I remember than unless it's a big hole you can just mend it. But there's also an issue with people commenting on your looks in very unwanted way when you wear something fancy, and I would like them to just shut up. I have quite low self esteem so if I'm wearing something more bold it means I got brave dressing up and they're ruining it for me.
    About using nicest things - last week my husband and I drank coffee from my teacup set that was saved for special occasions. There was no special occasion, but it felt good to use it, so it doesn't just stand on the shelf.

  • @sarahbettany7546
    @sarahbettany7546 9 місяців тому +8

    One of the best moves I feel I made, and one of the first as I started learning who I really was, was to stop choosing clothes that were just a case of 'that'll do'. Why not wear clothes that bring you joy? Life's too short!

  • @garbtheater
    @garbtheater 9 місяців тому +11

    I agree. Items should be used, not hoarded. I also used to save my nice things for special occasions, then I realized life is short and now we use our wedding china everyday and burn candles for no special reason.

  • @its_clean
    @its_clean 9 місяців тому +20

    Love this. A thing isn't beautiful because it lasts.

  • @firesideclassics
    @firesideclassics 9 місяців тому +6

    Dear Vasi, I want to tell you from my heart that you truly made a difference in my life today with your wonderful message in this video, perhaps in an unexpected way. I'm struggling, have been for a long time really, with the loss of a very precious relationship to me, and somehow hearing you say how part of life is letting go of things when it's time, and how it is part of the beauty and the reason for life, just touched a little piece of my heart that's hurting. I'm crying right now just writing this.
    I also am on a journey of making my own wardrobe, mostly vintage era clothing, but I can also connect to that sense of being so much more connected to your clothing when you've made it with your own two hands, and actually the joy that comes in a sort of funny way with wearing and mending them. I'm actually just about to finish mending and adjusting the first outfit I made, and it kind of feels like bringing an old friend back to life, and it being young again. Anyway, long comment, and maybe funny sounding, but I just really wanted to let you know that you touched me today, and I'm deeply grateful. You're a beautiful soul and artist Vasi, and I'm glad I get to share some little snippets of your experience through your beautiful videos. Thank you.

  • @Morticia147
    @Morticia147 9 місяців тому +3

    I stopped a long time ago keeping things for "special" moments. The special moment is WHEN I decide to wear something, get my expensive china out or open a really good bottle of Wine. Your time can be up faster than you expect or want and then you will have missed out on so many things. But I keep this attitude not only for clothes and so on, also for things to do or to say.
    I prefer to faile at something as to regret to never have tried.

  • @PromisingPod
    @PromisingPod 8 місяців тому +2

    I love the combination of clothes and life lessons that you bring to this video. Sometimes you just have to do what you think of now, and not wait for the right moment, because if you wait too long, you forget about what you were intending to do and move on to thinking about something else that you also end up postponing.

  • @maggienewman870
    @maggienewman870 8 місяців тому +3

    This really spoke to me as someone who wears sixties vintage clothing on the daily; I was tearing up watching. Life is too short to not get use out of things we really love, or to not spend our time how we want to spend it. Just wanted to thank you for this beautiful tribute to living in the moment💗

  • @trashmenagerie5616
    @trashmenagerie5616 9 місяців тому +4

    I've started using some of my pretty dishes and it's kind of nerve wracking but I definitely love getting to actually see them 😂 I've had them packed away in boxes this whole time, too afraid they were going to break. I had forgotten I even owned some of my favorite pieces.

  • @P0nyl0ve
    @P0nyl0ve 9 місяців тому +9

    I love this video and the message! I had to get over feeling "overdressed" at first when i wore my favourite fancy clothes but now I can't imagine wearing just a t-shirt and jeans ever again!

  • @MrsBrit1
    @MrsBrit1 9 місяців тому +6

    It doesn't make any sense to spend days making something, your own hard work, and then not use it or only use it for a specific occasion. If you spend dozens or hundreds of hours stitching something, be it sewn stitches, knit or crochet stitches, or hand embroidery, etc, or whether you make other items, why would you not use them?? Please don't waste your own time like that! Don't take advantage of yourself (or others) in that way!
    Making something useful and then holding it up on a pedestal as too precious to use is making a mockery of that item. It deems it purposeless. So whether you created the item or you paid someone else to make an item or you were handed down a cherished item, enjoy it. Please enjoy it! Use the quilt your great grandma made for you. Use the tea cups passed down to you when your grandma died. And wear the garments you make or the garments you love (wherever they're from). It's what they were made for!

    • @ragnkja
      @ragnkja 9 місяців тому +1

      Don’t hide away the beautiful things in your life behind an opaque cupboard door or drawer front, but enjoy them in whatever way gives you the most joy. I’m reminded of a Norwegian poem, “Ingerid Sletten” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson, and the title character who never used her most treasured item (a cap of dyed wool), but hid it away in a chest to save it for a special occasion. When she finally decided to stop waiting for the perfect occasion (after forty years), there wasn’t so much as a thread left.

  • @katyajohanna
    @katyajohanna 9 місяців тому +4

    I have often been asked, why I wear my beautiful garnments for days at home or with the family, but I never saw sense in wearing "ugly" things at home. Changing out of "good" clothing as soon as one comes home and holding onto things that don't serve you anymore just because they still function. You deserve to surround yourself with beautiful things and you can let go of you old super teared clothing or use it as a washcloth. My grandma only wears her super old teared clothes that are way to big for her, because it isn't worth for her to get beautiful things, because there is no one to get dressed up for. I on the other hand believe in getting dressed up for yourself, so I keep wearimg pretty clothes, that I feel confident in.

  • @melsmith5833
    @melsmith5833 9 місяців тому +9

    So much wisdom in this video! We are always holding off, waiting for just the right moment or saving the special things for 'perfect' moments. We don't realize how much enjoyment we are missing. Thanks for bring this to the light!

  • @orchardhouse9241
    @orchardhouse9241 9 місяців тому +5

    This reminds me that I need to finish repairing my favorite pair of pants. I have had them for several years, and they have holes in them because I used to wear them so much.
    I also have some socks that I want to fix. The heels are getting thin. I don't really know how to fix them, but I want to do it well because they are my nice socks and I love wearing them.

    • @ragnkja
      @ragnkja 9 місяців тому

      Socks (or tights) that can me mended without specialty yarn are a treasure worth mending as long as they can be mended.

  • @okiejammer2736
    @okiejammer2736 5 місяців тому +2

    Your words resonate with this 72 year old grandmother. I just pulled out my lead crystal platter to fill it with appetizers and snacks for .. me. 😊 THANK YOU.

  • @flyingpigfarm1
    @flyingpigfarm1 2 місяці тому +1

    Gurl, you are truly an Old Soul and even possibly my Spirit Animal! I’m old enough to be your grandma, and you said it PERFECTLY! I make all my clothes by hand, too - no patterns, I just see something and decide to make it. I’m sitting at work in a floor length gored skirt made from a vintage silk Sari as we speak! I dress like the crazy old lady that I am, in my sun hat bedecked with chandelier prisms and my dreadlocks festooned with beads. There’s even crystals on my walker! People comment on everything and many will stop to talk - and my circle of friends and acquaintances grows ever larger because of it! We only go around once, so put that fancy corset on OVER the silk blouse and sashay on out for your day. I’ll be the one sitting in the coffee shop knitting a baby blanket from unraveled cashmere sweaters from the thrift store - everyone should stop by to say “hi”!

  • @MirjaHPrivate
    @MirjaHPrivate 8 місяців тому +3

    Thank you for these wise words!
    You encouraged me to finally get to my BIG RED TASK on the todo list bottom.
    I'm in the beginning stages of thoroughly purging my closet and only keeping the items I truly connect with.
    The challenge here is that it's a daunting task I know won't be done over an hour or two, meaning my proverbial "spoons" will run out well before I'm even halfway through culling my twenty odd years worth of:
    - "maybe I'll still wear this" (Really now? I don't think I will)
    - "office wear" (No need, been out of office due to disability for the past 12 years and won't be going back)
    - "too fancy for everyday, since I'm mostly at home" (Why can't I wear fancy at home?!?!?)
    - "frumpy, stained, ripped, bit too big, bit too small tees and joggers for messy house chores and renovating" (yeah, how many hole-y, stain-y tee shirts and pants I'd never leave the house in do I actually need to keep)
    - what I actually wear (comfortable, durable, breathable, me looking clothes no matter the style)
    Wish me luck... 🥲

    • @grizeldaxxx4568
      @grizeldaxxx4568 8 місяців тому +1

      Awesome comment, I love Your list and sense of humour !!! (also think just creating it is half the battle) I find lighting a candle, maybe some incense and putting on a cd helps me get into the task with Joy until the spoons run out hahahaha . You have motivated me nto having another session today , thanks!

    • @MirjaHPrivate
      @MirjaHPrivate 8 місяців тому +1

      @@grizeldaxxx4568 Thank you so much for your kind words! This was an unexpected delight.
      Best of boost and biggest stash of spoons for your try! 🥰

    • @grizeldaxxx4568
      @grizeldaxxx4568 8 місяців тому +1

      @@MirjaHPrivate You are most welcome , and thanks so much for extra spoons

  • @juanchitaro5380
    @juanchitaro5380 9 місяців тому +4

    Beautiful words. I wrote something longer that sadly just got deleted (or I can't find it), but I'll substitute it with this: Don't be afraid of using well placed "shoulds". As long as you have made the effort to think it through as much as you did here. It is valuable that one shares strong held value judgments (as long as we are comfortable having them challenged). I certainly won't criticize you for it.
    Example: I SHOULD stop being lazy and wear something other than flip-flops. At least not 24/7 like I do now.

  • @_de_reve
    @_de_reve 8 місяців тому +2

    beautifully said!! i almost teared up hearing your words and seeing your connection to buddhism as it is one of the main spiritualities that influence me. thank you for reminding us of this universal truth✨🌸

  • @janeevans4758
    @janeevans4758 9 місяців тому +2

    So very true.
    I find the elderly are some of the worst for only wearing that beautiful dress on a occasion or getting the pretty crockery out for a gathering etc, but i also think its due to when they were young they had Sunday best clothing and after church it went straight back in the wardrobe, the finest dishes only came out at Christmas and packed away for the next year.
    Keeping items tucked away to make them last longer and to keep them looking new.
    I can definitely appreciate where the elderly and alike get the mind set from,but i fully embrace the wear it,use it appreciate it now stance as i also do it.
    I really love your uploads.

    • @carolkinch
      @carolkinch 8 місяців тому

      I am an older woman 70 going on 18. And I know many women, some in their 90s who wear their clothes with pride, yes their are some who don't but that's true of any age group.

  • @alethiacharis2480
    @alethiacharis2480 9 місяців тому +6

    One thing thats made a difference for me, is when i started being interested in natural fabrics💗 Before, i used to feel like my clothes were so flimsy, i remember. Like they might wear out easily, which made me try to "save" them more. Now, the clothes i buy are much more expensive, but they also feel sturdy. And i also feel i can probably scrub stains out. So i actually feel alot happier about wearing them☺️

  • @melissel5648
    @melissel5648 9 місяців тому +5

    Such a beautiful and touching message 🖤
    It may not be the spirit of letting go you're speaking about but one thing that truly helped me to wear my favorite clothes is the fact that sewing is a possibility for me now. So if I tear a piece of clothing, or stain it, I can imagine things to repare it or change it. And when it becomes truly too worn out to wear, there's always the possibility of sewing the same thing, or something similar if I want to. I don't depend on stores for that (second hand or not) and for me it is a very freeing thought.

    • @noellatrix
      @noellatrix 9 місяців тому +2

      Same for me, I used to have a harder time finding things I loved in stores so I was more attached to them, but now that I can make things I love I know I can always replace a ruined item with something else special.

  • @ciannacoleman5125
    @ciannacoleman5125 9 місяців тому +1

    This is why I wear my American Duchess shoes to work & church. I bought them because I love their design and they truly are comfortable, bonus I always get compliments when wearing them.

  • @dylanakent
    @dylanakent 9 місяців тому

    Agreed. Always say "I love you" to every one you love every opportunity you get.

  • @FrancisFjordCupola
    @FrancisFjordCupola 9 місяців тому +2

    I would be hesitant to get true old clothes dirty, even though clothes were made to be worn in the first place. But for true historical items I would feel like a caretaker, not an owner. If a jacket had been passed from one person to another and another and another and finally to me, I would not want to be the one to pass it on to the bin. But aside that, wear what you like and enjoy. For all the reasons specified in the video.

  • @leaf2576
    @leaf2576 9 місяців тому +12

    This is such an empowering message. I love hearing your thoughts and philosophies about clothes--amazing how it all applies much wider to life as a whole. Thank you for sharing.

  • @noellatrix
    @noellatrix 9 місяців тому +8

    I love this and totally agree ❤ I've always been someone who prefers to use rather than save nice things, but now that I have a smaller wardrobe and can make my own things, I really enjoy seeing pieces go through their natural life cycle. Its an opportunity to welcome something new as well- if all my clothes lasted forever my sewing would become a problem eventually 😂

    • @VBirchwood
      @VBirchwood  9 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for your comment 🥰
      The last line is so true. It’s actually a good thing that garments eventually need to be let go of 😂

  • @xxtwobitxx
    @xxtwobitxx 9 місяців тому +3

    Very true, I do like to at least dress presentable most of the time, and here and there some fairly nice clothes I have. Even though there not the most expensive

  • @ArchDudeify
    @ArchDudeify 9 місяців тому +1

    I agree with avoiding "should" 😎

  • @TeaCupCracked
    @TeaCupCracked 9 місяців тому +7

    You've really encoraged me over the years to keep exploring why I'm drawn to historical fashion. Although I have known of and admired your wrapper dresses, I was always really on the fence about trying out making one for myself; I'm disabled and I have a reluctance about investing time into new things if I don't feel confident about the outcome (I sew, but I tend to find and stick with patterns). I was worried about if I'd really get enough "wear" out of it, yet they look so comfortable! Recently though, an opportunity arose to "test drive" the idea; Uniqlo partnered with Ines de la Fressange and made a dress called "Volume Sleeve Long Dress" and while it is a very modern version of it, it is essentially a 21st wrapper dress in spirit. Buying one and trying it out has really convinced me now to make my own; the fit and style of it can be worn easily in a contemporary way just through accessory choice. I wanted to mention it here, because a key change or modernization they did, that I think works well, is going with a light-weight shirt cotton (like a man's office button-down shirt). If you make sure the dress is still very full, or perhaps make the skirt even fuller than before, that modern fabric drapes really nice and is extra, super lightweight on the body (it's like getting the drape of a regency cotton-lawn gown almost, or one of those Edwardian white lace dresses; only it's a durable garment to work in). I like your design/pattern better, but trying out a weird time-traveling hybred really helped to assure my worried brain that it's going to be worth investing the time into it.
    I think what you do on your channel and what other "costube" creators are doing is starting to affect the fashion industry; I think their customer base is starting to ask for not "new and shiny" things, but reliable designs that are direct historical references that are not tied to a specific current trend. Please keep doing what you are doing; I think in the long term it's creating a positive impact.

  • @robintheparttimesewer6798
    @robintheparttimesewer6798 9 місяців тому +2

    This is a prefect idea. I’ve been working on giving myself permission to use the good stuff and wear the special things. Thank you for reminding us to celebrate today!

  • @timmarshall7292
    @timmarshall7292 9 місяців тому +2

    If available, I purchase clothing made in the U.S.A.. My boots, when new, are for the Church services on Sunday and everyday casual; When the work boots need to be discarded, my Church/casual boots become work boots (broke in) and I get a new pair of boots (repeat for over 40 years). It goes the same for other types of clothing.

  • @leoscheibelhut940
    @leoscheibelhut940 9 місяців тому +3

    I follow you for tips on historical clothing, but I also get surprisingly wise advice. Double win!

  • @brip799
    @brip799 5 місяців тому

    I love this. I am guilty of buying pretty things that just get admired in my closet or stay packed away because I want to hold onto them forever but it is true that there is no promised tomorrow. I need to be happy to live and use them now and this is a good reminded of that. ❤

  • @markhines192
    @markhines192 9 місяців тому +1

    I love this message. Start living and enjoying the people and things you are experiencing right now. We cant bring back the past, snd the future isnt guaranteed.
    I was wondering how the general public reacts to uour amazing clothes when you are out and about.

  • @prophetessoftroy
    @prophetessoftroy 8 місяців тому +1

    I love this philosophy, and I've spent the last several years trying to embrace it and live it for myself.
    The one I have a hard time with now is with things like nice housewares, largely because I live with someone whose philosophy is a little different. I would rather enjoy my things but take care of them and have them a long time (and I actually find satisfaction in taking care of the things I love). They....tend to treat everything like it is more or less disposable. Not really out of spite, just out of a general lack of caring. And it's hard to get others to, if not care for things, at least not be care*less* in their handling of them. Likewise, choosing to accept that they are unlikely to change and therefore, the nice things aren't likely to stay nice for very long; or learning how to communicate what things are important to you in a way that they understand and can respect enough to treat appropriately, is another challenge. It's a difficult balance, and one I'm still figuring out.
    Thank you for the reminder to be present and to savor each moment! I think it's something I needed to hear right now.

  • @BethAge95
    @BethAge95 9 місяців тому +1

    Everything you said in this video is so true! Especially when life is hard and there is a lot of suffering around, focusing on the small things is crucial and might just safe you from depression and anxiety.

  • @grizeldaxxx4568
    @grizeldaxxx4568 8 місяців тому

    Wise sentiments indeed. Just yesterday I took my time to dress up , just to go and Vote in our elections (I live in New Zealand) . I remembered how the Suffragettes were fighting for Women's right to Vote , so I took it seriously and also wanted to have fun , so I made sure I wore Purple , Green and White as a nod to them . The actually voting process took less than 5 minutes , but I imagined it as a Sacred Ritual . My feelings are EVERY DAY ABOVE GROUND IS A SPECIAL OCCASION! Thanks for this valid video x

  • @catherinejustcatherine1778
    @catherinejustcatherine1778 9 місяців тому +3

    I am so glad to see this video posted! 🦋🌻
    I, too, love wearing my most significant/nicest clothes all the time. I like having clothes that are special (to me) for any activity I may be doing, including messy tasks.
    I appreciate your poignant message at the end!
    💖

  • @sirclarkmarz
    @sirclarkmarz 4 місяці тому

    This young lady is a treasure .

  • @MommaF8
    @MommaF8 7 місяців тому

    Thank you for that beautiful reminder! You are very wise (and extremely talented!) young lady. I so appreciate you!❤

  • @2enigma8
    @2enigma8 9 місяців тому

    I wore some gowns when I worked at a laid back spa so lol no problem there 😅😅 j know my time is short the body I have now wont last. Tucking our loved items away is like tucking a part of ourselves away that should be seen.. xx great video

  • @bethliebman8169
    @bethliebman8169 8 місяців тому

    Good message for these chaotic times. Love your red Tatar-Volga dress. Very flattering.

  • @EUSA1776
    @EUSA1776 8 місяців тому +4

    It’s very refreshing seeing a woman dress so elegantly again, as a young man (mid 20’s) I personally find long earrings and deep rich colors and fabrics on a woman can be just as, if not more eye catching than contemporary styles. Of course, part of it is skills in sewing and historical knowledge which is a staple of this channel, and obviously her natural beauty, but idk, we’ve lost a lot in our fast fashion age. Recently I myself have gone on a vintage style craze and bought a few items out of modern style, I think even men’s clothing opens up so much when one doesn’t feel bound to the social norms, particularly if one’s body type (broad shoulders, stocky, strong legs etc) doesn’t fit with modern slim cut styles.

  • @rosethunder3820
    @rosethunder3820 9 місяців тому +3

    This is why I refuse to abide by the idea that you should work and work and work now so that you can save for retirement. What id I don’t make it to retirement? What if I’m too ill to enjoy it? I don’t want to slave away at something I hate on nothing but the promise of someday. You should do everything you can to live a life you’re happy with. Even if it’s hard.

  • @pyenygren2299
    @pyenygren2299 9 місяців тому +1

    I love, love, love using my homesewn clothes until they get to worn out to mend again.

  • @erkschadeable
    @erkschadeable 8 місяців тому

    hells yeah! can't agree more, no point in not enjoying it!

  • @williamarrowsmiith8380
    @williamarrowsmiith8380 8 місяців тому

    Brilliant!!! Wise beyond your years and a wonderful inspiration.
    You always look fabulous which is having a profound influence on how I am perceiving my own day-to-day attire.

  • @Jl-pm6fp
    @Jl-pm6fp 9 місяців тому +1

    This is a really profound message--thank you for your eloquence and committment to bringing beauty into the world and appreciating it wherever you find it.

  • @biiri1
    @biiri1 6 місяців тому +1

    You got a new sub.
    Great stuff.
    Never seen this page before.

  • @miketacos9034
    @miketacos9034 8 місяців тому

    This is a really practical way to live in the moment. Thank you 🙏

  • @cherrieaulait
    @cherrieaulait 8 місяців тому

    This is very insightful & wise, thank you. 😊 And it transfers far beyond the concept of clothes, which is pretty thought provoking.

  • @claire2088
    @claire2088 9 місяців тому +1

    Thank you for sharing this, it's such a needed reminder and your voice is so relaxing

  • @donmills2647
    @donmills2647 9 місяців тому +2

    Seize the day seems appropriate.
    This made me think of a song The Bastard Fairies do callled Memento Mori
    Sometimes you think you're untouchable
    Just look behind you, you are but a man
    Sometimes you think things can't get worse
    Just look behind you, you are but a man
    So eat, drink and be merry
    For tomorrow you may be dead
    Eat, drink and be merry
    For tomorrow you may be dead
    The struggle for life you know never ends
    So look behind you, you are but a man
    Rich man, poor man, beggar man, thief
    Look behind you, you are but a man
    So eat, drink and be merry
    For tomorrow you may be dead
    Eat, drink and be merry
    For tomorrow you may be dead
    Realise we share the same fate
    Understand your own mortality
    Our lives are getting shorter every day
    Pretty soon there will be no you and me
    So eat, drink and be merry
    For tomorrow you may be dead
    Eat, drink and be merry
    For tomorrow you may be dead
    Sieze the day, you know it's gonna end
    Look behind you, you are but a man
    Dance footloose across the earth
    And look behind you, you are but a man
    So eat, drink and be merry
    For tomorrow you may be dead
    Eat, drink and be merry
    For tomorrow you may be dead

  • @AB-nk7ng
    @AB-nk7ng 8 місяців тому

    Literally was planning my outfit for tommorow while watching this. Thanks 😂

  • @intreccicapricci6877
    @intreccicapricci6877 8 місяців тому

    You are a trendsetter I hope soon more people will embrace your suggestion.

  • @JoelleFromParis
    @JoelleFromParis 9 місяців тому

    I agree with you, Vasi: I am all about enjoying my best things and appreciating every moment of it.

  • @carolineroy9026
    @carolineroy9026 9 місяців тому

    Totally agree with you :) 😊 Thank you.

  •  8 місяців тому +1

    Loved this video of yours. I wish you could do a TED talk (it's not up to you, I know, but this message/vision would help a lot of people). Have a great day. And thank you.

    • @VBirchwood
      @VBirchwood  8 місяців тому +1

      Thank you so much! I'd love to do a TED talk at some point, but I believe you have to be invited to them. Maybe in the future 😊

  • @Grindtesque
    @Grindtesque 9 місяців тому

    I like the cut of your jib. Your authenticity is refreshing.

  • @CindersSpot
    @CindersSpot Місяць тому

    I am way sadder when I grow out of a garment I made before having worn it regularly than if I "ruin" a garment by wearing it lots

  • @tdoran616
    @tdoran616 9 місяців тому +6

    I always dress casual-formal now, I save dressing up for events, weddings, funerals, the horse races and church . Odd how much it changes your mental health. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 🇬🇧 Like touching grass.

  • @amandasunshine2
    @amandasunshine2 8 місяців тому

    Good things don't have to be good forever. Things breaking or deteriorating to the point where they are no longer good doesn't negate the time when they were good.

  • @jeroenthelord
    @jeroenthelord 9 місяців тому

    My coworkers often ask my why i wear my normal clothes to work (i work in a furniture factory), telling me they will get damaged. I always tell them i work, do groceries and stay indoors, either i wear them now and get to enjoy them.Or since i paint in the weekends i basically never wear them apart from special occasions. Its clothing, its meant to be worn. If it just stays in your closet it cant do the one thing it was made to do. And if it was me i would be pretty sad if i couldn't do my one and only purpose.
    Also i just really like showing up in my Warcraft, Warhammer and Anime shirts monday morning when everyone wears drab olive green.

  • @mrsamamorris
    @mrsamamorris 8 місяців тому

    Beautiful. Thank you for this.

  • @dylanfrasier4054
    @dylanfrasier4054 9 місяців тому

    Dear V.birch.Thank you for this message.I really enjoy my favorite clothes.Your point is right on.Practicality,comfort and it looks good.

  • @karensykas3809
    @karensykas3809 Місяць тому

    And use your best dishes!!!

  • @RustyClam
    @RustyClam 9 місяців тому +1

    I love watching your channel, you are so well spoken and love what you do. I once heard that everything is on its way to somewheres.

  • @akechijubeimitsuhide
    @akechijubeimitsuhide 9 місяців тому +1

    You never know when you're about to run off on an adventure, might as well dress fancy at all times.

  • @Coast-to-Coast
    @Coast-to-Coast 9 місяців тому +3

    I have to wear the same ugly shirt to work everyday, so I like to have fun by wearing my nice self-made skirts for the sake of variety. And then when i don't work, I often dress up in my cutest outfits even if I'm not doing anything just because I can. If I save my nice clothes for special occasions, they'll never get worn.

    • @beagleissleeping5359
      @beagleissleeping5359 9 місяців тому +2

      "Why are you wearing a dress?"
      Because I spend 5 days a week in a work uniform!

    • @Coast-to-Coast
      @Coast-to-Coast 9 місяців тому

      @@beagleissleeping5359 exactly!

  • @beeurself8947
    @beeurself8947 9 місяців тому +1

    You have such a historical face, if you know what I mean. recently re-read Madam Bovary and I imagined Emma would look like you!

  • @saoirsevicteoiria2759
    @saoirsevicteoiria2759 9 місяців тому

    Thank for this. I'm glad you made it, and I'm glad that I watched it.

  • @josephstevens9888
    @josephstevens9888 9 місяців тому

    Vasi - you seem very wise beyond your years. I enjoy watching your videos. Take care and good luck.

  • @songbird377
    @songbird377 9 місяців тому

    Wow this is beautiful. I 100% agree and will incorporate this mindset into my life.

  • @propulsar
    @propulsar 9 місяців тому

    Mindfulness in all things.

  • @crabsoft
    @crabsoft 9 місяців тому +1

    Perhaps not the expected angle, but this is something all gamers go through. I promise just using stuff is so much more fun. Replacing stuff is also a great opportunity to further tailor to your preferences.

  • @fancyfree8228
    @fancyfree8228 7 місяців тому

    Great video - great advice.

  • @evitasify
    @evitasify 9 місяців тому

    Hello. I really needed to hear this today 😊. Thank you so much.

  • @hawkinscsa
    @hawkinscsa 8 місяців тому

    I love this! ❤

  • @EdenAsher
    @EdenAsher 9 місяців тому

    I have an English tea set from 1902. I use it in the fall for whenever I have guest, and because its the holiday season there are many guest. So far 1 saucer has broken, and 1 tea cup has chipped. But they were made to be used, not sat on a shelf for display.

  • @manueledmundopastenazocar836
    @manueledmundopastenazocar836 9 місяців тому

    Amaizing and fantástic your Channel dear V. Congrats 👏

  • @cheeseburger3119
    @cheeseburger3119 8 місяців тому

    Well said. And you look awesome! :)

  • @sana-gq2ur
    @sana-gq2ur 9 місяців тому

    i totally manifested this video ❤