Inspired by a Matriarch

As much as I love fashion, writing about it can be monotonous.  How many times can you suggest the perfect cardigan or must-have pair of jeans before it’s downright mundane?  If I had to guess, most of you that invest time in my blog are here for the pictures and convenient links.  A visual is by far the easiest way to navigate the world of fashion.  I am not insulted at all.  I typically do the same thing!

I do, however, love to read those inspiring, more personal blog posts.  There’s always something poignant and relevant that resonates with my soul and pushes me to keep going.  A few weeks ago, it unfortunately took a somber event to spark this particular post today.

Growing up in Kearny, I forged strong and deep connections with my neighbors.  A very friendly and supportive community, I feel blessed to have been raised there.  The Hoch family, in particular, became more than just neighbors.   Warm, hospitable, and larger than life, they made me feel like one of their own.  Sadly, the matriarch of their family, and beloved “Nonna” recently passed away.  Nonna, known for her impeccable cooking, Italian accent, broken English, and infectious energy, stole everyone’s hearts.  She welcomed you with open arms and never let you leave without a belly full and doggy bag to go.  As I listened to her children recite a beautiful Eulogy, one particular portion of their words left me thinking.  Her son talked about her insatiable love for fashion and how she never left the house without hair, makeup, and clothes to perfection.   To most, this sentiment may have been bypassed.  With me, however, it struck a chord.

Nonna didn’t dress up each day for vanity or attention seeking purposes.  She did it because it made her feel alive.    Up until her very last day, her nails were perfectly manicured, her valor sweatsuits were ironed, and leopard adorned her daily looks.  She was the epitome of fashion and fun.  It’s women like Nonna that inspire me.  They worked hard and catered to their families, but still managed to find time to care for themselves.  My main purpose for starting this blog was to motivate women to step out of their comfort zones and find time for themselves again.  I have come to the realization that fashion can play such a positive role in our lives.  When we look our best, we feel our best.  This in return leads to so many possibilities.

After leaving Nonna’s services, I was reminded of my own grandmother’s.  They too were always dressed to the nines, even if their fashion choices weren’t always on point!  My Nana repeatedly reminded me to get up, get dressed, and wear a clean pair of underwear each day.  Her reasoning behind this was simple.  If you were found dead, at least you would be remembered as clean and polished! I always use to think she was nuts, but now it makes complete sense.  Older and wiser, I finally see how their generation has impacted my life. Their mentality and views on the world of fashion, provoked this new venture.  They paved the way.  They are true examples of powerful women, who lived honest, hard-working, gracious, and quite fashionable lives!

Fashion is very important.  It’s life enhancing, pleasurable, and an instant language.  Thank you Nonna for reminding me of this and why I started this platform in the first place.  I know your timeless spirit and  modish energy will live on forever.

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Fredi Alynn Clutch

In Loving memory of Nonna: