DEAR ABBY: While wearing black may, indeed, be considered "classy" and "tasteful" by many women today, I personally find the trend depressing.
The last wedding I attended, only about five of us wore something other than black. When I looked out at the couples on the dance floor, it reminded me of television clips I had seen of the crowds in the Middle East. I have told my friends repeatedly, "We are not nuns, we are not Amish and we are not oppressed women! We have the freedom to wear and enjoy beautiful, joyful colors!" This is especially true at weddings, which should be happy occasions.
And by the way, to those ladies who shop so carefully to find just the right black dress -- once you enter a room full of other black dresses, you're just another grain of sand on the seashore.
Whoever believes the myth that black dresses make one look slim -- guess again. Sorry, girls, if you're fat, you're fat -- that black dress isn't fooling anyone. -- LOVES COLOR IN OHIO
DEAR LOVES COLOR: The old saying that color evokes emotion must be true, because from the tone of your letter it's clear you're seeing red. Please remember that what people wear isn't as important as how they feel in it. (It would be interesting to know what women in the Middle East would wear if their governments allowed them the choice we enjoy in this country -- may I live to see the day!)