Only as fashionable as I can tolerate

[glitch25]

One of the things I've noticed as I get older is that my ability to tolerate colder temperatures is falling.  I've always been the guy wearing shorts until the first snow.  But I've noticed I get colder than I used to and am more inclined to put on clothes to fix it.  This has always been at odds with my need to feel comfortable in my clothing that has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.  

I have distinct memories of my Mom trying to dress me in polyester pull-over shirts.  Popular for the slightly dressier look and likely also less expensive in the 70s, Mom tried.  I would tug on the collars until the switches popped.  Used to drive her crazy.  finally somewhere along the line she figured out that either she ought change what I wear or deal with my destroying my clothes.  Button-downs, tank-tops and polos became standard items and so it has ever been.  Yes I realize years later that this is a classic presentation of my neurodivergency.  I just know I didn't want to feel hot and uncomfortable.  

Every fashion choice I've ever made since then has been deeply tied to my comfort particularly as it relates to temperature regulation. And since i also realized I run warm, it meant that there were a lot of clothes that just didn't work out for me. Never saw the point of sweaters.  Pullover sweatshirts were bad.  Turtlenecks were a great way for someone to lose a limb thinking I could wear one.  Most Tshirts were bad and I even tried Henleys for a while and that didn't work out.  Ironically, a long sleeve button-down and tie didn't trigger the same discomfort.  The constricted bits hit different places than say a snugger fit t-shirt and at least for short periods was more tolerable.  

In recent years, I've tried to see if I could get over the t-shirt thing since I have a longing to wear printed T's, but it just doesn't work out.  I'm working on seeing if I can tolerate them if I excise the neck.  It feels better, but I still fight with where the remainder of the shirt sits.  It's weird.  And kinda frustrating.  And oddly difficult to push myself past.

So... basically it takes a great deal to push me past my deep-seated need for comfort in my clothing.   As I get older, I realize my change in temperature perception and such is working in my favor to help there be less discomfort when I try to work past my issues. 

I literally just shuddered to think this, but at this rate, maybe one day when I'm much older and nearing the end, I'll be not only comfortable but grateful for the warmth and closeness of a nice turtleneck and cable sweater.  *twitch*

NOPE.  :-)

Comments

[noelfigart]

How do flannel shirts feel on you? They're still made of woven material and are button-down.

[glitch25]

Texture wise, I think they'd be ok. Just too warm. But maybe some day. :-)

[mlerules]

Might a V-neck printed tshirt make it bearable do you think? I require zippers or buttons for quick-release of sweaters, jackets, and vests. Haven't worn a turtleneck in decades.