Black on Black

November 20, 2015 2 Comments

The situation of Southern slaveowners was compared by Thomas Jefferson as having “the wolf by the ear, and we can neither hold him, nor safely let him go.” This was quite evident in our recent visit to Monticello, in Virginia, the house and plantation of the third president of United States,Thomas Jefferson . Although a progressive thinker in that era, he owned over 600 slaves in his lifespan. The house had neoclassical architecture as well as some quirky inventions by Jefferson himself. The slaves mostly worked in the stables, kitchen, cellars and laundry situated below the house. The estate is beautifully maintained with some of the original furnitures, decorations and books and you are instantly transported to that era. Unfortunately photography inside the house was prohibited. The house, located on the summit of Southwest Mountains, just outside of Charlottesville, Virginia, has the most breathtaking view, lacking ‘only a waterbody and an active volcano!’ in Jefferson’s own words.

It was a ‘wannabe’ winter day and I was confused about my outfit. I followed the most important rule of fashion – ‘ When in doubt, wear black.’ I layered a turtleneck sweater under a old Forever21 dress. This dress is interesting with an unexpected bright splash and a lacey finish in the back. There was a lot of walking involved so I went with flat boots and knee high socks.