Is it a blouse or a shirt?

I was chatting with my sister today when she mentioned wearing a blouse. “A BLOUSE” I exclaimed, “no one says BLOUSE anymore.” Well at least no one under the age of 65!

When I hear blouse I imagine a corporate woman from the early eighties that would have a loose silky blouse with the built in neck bow walking at lunch in her pencil skirt and bright white sneakers.  A blouse is a shirt that says “Hey Mr. Corporate World, I can play too, just look at all of these powerful ruffles and flouncy tie I have added to your business shirt!”

Here is a visual comparison…

The 80′s blouse

The button down style of THIS millenium

PLEASE TELL ME YOU SEE THE DIFFERENCE

Which got me to thinking how much our clothing terminology has changed. So for all of you behind-the-times oldies but goodies, here is my translation:

You say:                             We say:
Blouse                 Collared shirt or buttondown
Thongs                                Flip Flops
Pumps                                 Heels
Pantyhose                            Nylons
Pocketbook                          Purse
Broach/brooch                       Pin

Any questions?

Please let me know if you need anything translated.  : )