HERstory: The Autumn (Green) Leaves

There is something very special about wearing vintage. It's like you're wearing something with history. Not just the short story of I-want-it-let's-buy-it-then-wear-it.

Batik has been Indonesia's cultural treasure for hundreds of years. My Mom wore this 50's style batik dress when she was young. And the lovely green fabric with its intricate pattern belonged to my Grandma. So the history of this beautiful piece spans three generations!

How about you? Do you like wearing something with history? Or in this case, HER-story? ^_^

I think in the past women dressed in a much more feminine way with ruffles, puffy sleeves, cinched waist, and billowy skirt.

I feel so ladylike and ultra feminine in this dress.
Or, so old-fashioned and granny-like, some of my colleagues teased.

This is Pekalongan batik, and it was stamped by hand. I could imagine ladies of the house in the old days, spending their afternoons painting or stamping delicate patterns on the fabric. (Ok, I watched too much old movies) Check out the intricate diagonal patterns.

I wanted to wear this dress for work, so I just threw a jacket on to create a somewhat professional attire from what basically is considered a housedress look, an old-fashioned look, granny look, 50's inspired look, a housewife look, whatever.

Batik dress: Mom's and Grandma's handpainted Pekalongan batik. Bag: Guess. Sandals: Yongki Komaladi. Earrings and bracelets: old collection.