On Tuesday I had a first meeting with a client to do contract graphic design. Originally I was going to wear a yellow folk style dress but changed my mind last minute. Looking overly soft and feminine is not the first impression I like to make in professional situations or on dates. I don’t want my physical appearance to overshadow my creativity and personality. So instead, I looked to the working woman fashion icon Mary Tyler Moore for my outfit inspiration: 70’s high-waisted wide leg pants, large lapels, and heels.

Recently I’ve watched my first few episodes of the Mary Tyler Moore Show. The TV series started in 1970 and was the first TV show where the central character was an unmarried working woman. I’m surprised to find that I love the show. There is lots of fashion inspiration and forward social commentary. (Interesting side note: Mary Tyler Moore’s character on the show wore outfits more than once because she was a working woman.)

Vintage 70s blue polyester high-waisted pants: no tag, thrift store
Vintage 70s tunic top: home sewn, thrift store
Leather belt: thrift store

Even though this is no longer the 70s, I can relate to Mary Tyler Moore’s character. She moved to Minneapolis to purse her career as an assistant news producer. This was after a failed relationship and putting her career on hold to support her boyfriend through medical school.

Just over a year ago, I chose my passions and career over a guy. I learned in relationships it is easy to confuse love with self sacrifice. This way of thinking is not sustainable if one is to be happy. The best relationship are those where two people’s goals can coexist and they support each other to achieve them.

Embroidered tote bag: no tag, thrift store

I can also relate to Mary Tyler Moore’s character working during the women’s movement. It could not have been easy to go against the cultural expectations that women should be married and in the home. Since the current economic depression, I am part of the movement of self-employment. People are no longer relying on the system of working for the man and are taking control of their own employment.

Heels: Gianni Bini, Dillard’s

Vintage ethnic silver earrings: Afghanistan, from Armor Bijoux
Vintage large silver ring: Afghanistan, from Armor Bijoux

Photographer: Anna V. Demetriades

Mary Tyler Moore I like you.