Aprons
Article by KarensVariety.com

Aprons were very fashionable in the past. Perhaps they should make a comeback.

Aprons can be quickly removed and replaced if they get dirty, they can be changed on the spot, in public (no need to head for the washroom to change), and they take little space in the washing machine. What is your first thought when you think of aprons? You probably think of a trades person; a butcher, maid, baker or someone who simply wants to keep their daily clothes clean while on the job.

Have you ever reached up to that high cupboard and leaned against your counter only to discover that you now have a stain across your stomach? Or have you simply been stirring or pouring something liquid and splashed your shirt? I seem to get into these situations when we have company and I am trying to serve dinner to guests. Inevitably I sit down at the table with a few spots on my nice outfit or I race to the bedroom for a quick change. How easy it is now to toss that blouse with the tomato stain on the front knowing that it will be almost impossible to remove.

It is interesting that our modern clothing uses the layered look; kids and adults alike wear shirts over shirts. Yet, this is quite the opposite of how clothing used to be worn; women wore aprons to protect their dresses, even men wore overalls with bibs to protect their shirts. I suppose if we used the old wringer washers, we would be less inclined to change our clothing so often.

Of course, as we become more aware of the importance of water preservation and energy conservation, our attitudes toward styles should and hopefully will change.

We need to look back to the time when it was important to make clothes last. Aprons provided a very important function. They could also be very stylish and pretty. Try something new; the next time you go to a wedding shower, take an apron as a gift. Be anonymous if you are worried about the reaction. If you choose wisely and pick an apron that suits the bride's taste in clothing, you might be surprised at the reaction; she might well be delighted.

Aprons come in two basic styles; tied around the waist or with a bib so they tie around the waist and around the neck. Apart from that, the imagination can take over. They can be practical and plain, or trimmed with ruffles or lace. The decoration can be the pattern in the material or you can add appliques or cut the apron into a different shape. The book below has a cute apron pattern with a heart shaped bib. Pockets are a great addition as you can easily carry things around the house in them, keeping your hands free.

Aprons can made in a theme; choose material or appliques for Christmas, Easter, Valentine's Day or any special holiday. Choose appliques, material or decorations to reflect special interests or someone's career.

Let's not forget the men; barbecue aprons are still very fashionable for men. They come with sports appliques and patterns or funny sayings written on them. Most men have received one as a gift at some time.

If you do not sew, you can also crochet aprons. The patterns are not difficult and you can choose any colour thread you wish.