Togging Up

This time of year brings out the worst fashion in the city. The Diaspora, who have arrived in the droves, are noticeably running around in my neighbourhood in their flannel pajama bottoms, tight T-shirts and fancy sports shoes, and are seen mainly in the markets and supermarkets. Not only are their flannel pajama bottoms a dead giveaway, but their terrific accents used at a high octave leaves you in no doubt. Strangely, when they are jabbering in their native languages the accent seems to vanish but when speaking in English it is a different sound altogether.

Arriving in Colombo, they are ready to take all their country cousins, or who they feel are deprived, to restaurants; mostly to buffets in the belief that they are being treated to something unusual. In the line at the buffet they talk in a loud voice of their local travel plans and look among their guests for those interested in tagging along.  Neglected parents are also showered with similar attention during their brief stay.

Apart from the Diaspora, Colombo is buzzing with everyone out and about at pop up sales, parties, exhibitions and openings, which seem to be plentiful.  Whoever declared the country bankrupt needs to re-think. December seems to have given the Colombo people money flowing from taps.  

The fashions, where people in various outfits uploaded on social media, newspapers and magazines, are something to look out for.  It is bewildering to see the horrendous clothes out there. 

When posing for pictures it is a must to flash the high end fashion brands with brash labels all over the accessories.  Going through an international Vogue magazine it is obvious those photographed in them are discreet and not as vulgar as our lot. This makes it clear that fake is in full fashion and brashly worn and posed in. A fashion icon told me that it was a mystery to him as to where the majority of our fashionistas shop for their outfits, not having many renowned designers in this country.  He was relieved that there were no fashion police in Colombo because if there was, there would be arrests. 

On the other hand, if it makes them happy to be seen in what we consider strange attire, it could be a fashion line we do not know about. The choice is theirs and being judgmental is unfair.  Happiness is what matters during this month of festive cheer and to be merry.

A very happy Christmas to all of you!