When I think back to life between 17-23 years, I think about how I managed to maintain being size 12, and also, certainly up to the age of 21, how much flesh I used to bare. I also remember talk of images of young models, how inappropriate they were. You see, I could not imagine an identity beyond being a young woman as so the constant images of young women I was surrounded by did not register; I saw my own identity amongst them. And I also misread them, I thought they were saying, this IS you, this IS how you should be and look. I saw the pictures in Vogue, Marie Claire or even dare I confess it, More, and saw them as blueprints to re-create. It did not occur to me that these were outfits designed to opperate in the context of a photoshoot, not streetwear.
And now I as I see girls in stripper heels braving the cold with very little on, I smile to myself. One day, they will realise the benefits of long-sleeved thermal vests from M & S.
