My First Dress

The first item of clothing I remember as being really special was a dress my mum bought me when I was about 9.  It was fine cotton with a floral print in soft, dusty yellow tones. It was knee length with a shirred bodice and long sleeves. It felt so light and floaty.

 I grew up on a boat and was a total tom boy.  Nearly all my clothe were hand me downs from my big brother. I honestly don’t remember having a dress before this one. I think we may have bought it because I had been invited to a birthday party.

 I can remember wearing it in front of a mirror and mum and the lady in the shop saying it looked nice. Given it is such a clear memory I think it must have been the first time an item of clothing made me feel different, and also got attention from others.

 The shop sold good quality second hand kid’s clothes. I even remember the name of it – The Gold Street Shop.