Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Clothes for Quests

It is time to come clean about the clothes we like, R&B and I are unanimous, the clothes from Lord of the Rings. They were never designed to be costumes, but fully functioning clothes for quests.












When I go to heaven, if, after greeting all those I have loved and lost, they offer me the chance to wear Arwen's coronation gown, the one in the green that the designer fell in love with, palest shell pink organza falling from the sleeve and the butterfly crown, I will not be disappointed (as long as I look like Liv Tylor as part of the bargain).

In this life, however, appearing in full glory is reserved for special occasions, such as one's coronation or being invited to Elrond's hall for a banquet.

In the meantime, on to clothes for the everyday quest!

In the film of the Lord of the Rings such clothes are brought to life: functional but never utilitarian, worn torn dirtied and mended, in harmony with the nature of the wearer, the nature of the task and with nature herself. In such clothes we fortify ourselves and amplify the best of our nature, without resorting to vulgar display or unlivable fantasy. No doubt we all have our buttock-proffering skull-obsessed moments, but we distract ourselves from the quest if we pander to them.











Sully forth
In colours of twighlight, forest and field
In forms and fabrics for body and soul
Layered with history, strengthened by time
Strong and supple
To spring into action
Pass swiftly and lightly, all-terrain
Faithful and uncomplaining
Made to endure
Ennobled with emblems
And valiant ensign