I didn't realize that my 21-year-old brother was one to subscribe to blogs (other than anything found on ESPN, of course). I actually had no idea that he was even reading mine. So when he observed that I hadn't updated my posts lately, I realized that it was really time to get into gear and start updating my writing.
Good thing that there's something that I can't get off my mind--something about which I need to write, something about which the world needs to read: The Uniform Project. The Uniform Project is a topic that is perfect for blogging purposes. Karli Meg shared this Web site/cause with me while we were gallivanting around Pleasanton together this weekend and I can't stop thinking about it. Sheena Matheiken started The Uniform Project to perform, as she calls it on her Web site, "an exercise in sustainable fashion." For 365 days, she will wear the exact same dress. She has seven dresses, all of which are exactly the same, and she rocks a clean one each day of the week. To distinguish between outfits, Matheiken reinvents the dress by wearing accessories (think jewelry, handbags, tights, shoes, vests and hats) that have been handed down to her by supporters of the project. (Even you can be a supporter of the project by e-mailing Matheiken at theuniformproject09@gmail.com. Tell her you want to get involved and she'll respond, telling you how you can send accessories her way.)
In addition to donating accessories, participants can also donate to the project itself. The Uniform Project doubles as a campaign to raise awareness of and funds for the Akanksha Foundation, a grassroots organization that seeks to revolutionize the education system in India. A former student in India herself, Metheiken always had to wear a uniform to school. She and her peers found ways to individualize their style by adding accessories, therefore distinguishing their tastes from one another. The funds raised by the project will support the Akanksha Foundation's efforts to provide school uniforms and other educational expenses for children who live in the slums of India.
I think that part of the reason I love the Uniform Project so much is because it goes to show that there's no limit to the things you can do with a little innovation. Creativity and generosity are the catalysts in ensuring that change effectively takes place in the world.
