One of the irresistible features in fashion magazines is the list of what is “In” and what is “Out.” These lists often get even more elaborate than simply listing what is coming “In” and what is going “Out.” They advise what to buy; what to wear now; what to store, what to toss. Usually one of my current favorites has just landed on the “out” list, such as my beloved wide leg jeans. It may seem like one big conspiracy designed to make us feel bad, but in reality fashion is always about looking forward. We should think of these lists as fun and even silly, never mandates to dress a certain way.

In the spirit of the “In” and “Out” list, I’ve come up with one of my own. It has nothing to do with current styles. The recession and other serious global issues are calling on all of us to rethink how we live and spend. We are all called to take action in ways that benefit our communities and our nation, and we are responding. Together we are creating a climate where change is possible, fueled by consciousness and imagination. Maybe I should call this the Yes We Can list.

Out:
• Anything purchased with the intention of showing off your wealth, including status designer jeans, “It” bags, and dress-to-impress labels
• Make-over shows that make the recipient feel badly about themselves – Banish the idea of anyone being a “before”
• Spending more on a garment than is appropriate for your budget
• Worrying about doing it wrong
• Heidi Klum

In:
• Imagination and Creativity
• Re-purposing garments in new ways
• Recycling what you are not using
• Joining together to support one another – in your closet, browsing the clearance racks, or shopping for that one perfect thing
• Giving lots of sincere compliments
• Satisfaction – doing what you need to feel good about yourself

You can also take advantage of our changing times to work with your kids about these issues and instill in them the values they need to move forward in our sometimes critical and competitive world.