Too high to reach

Chapter 107 Clothes Reflect the Person
After dinner, Wang packed her things.

She was preparing to deliver the clothes and accessories that her mother and sister had brought to Granny Zhao, because she didn't want people to underestimate the Mo family!

Just then, Mo Wen arrived.

"Wenwen, about the clothes... I didn't tell you, did I?" Madam Wang asked cautiously.

"What are you talking to me about? It's not mine! I'm not even envious." Mo Wen's attitude was far from pleasant.

"Mother knows you don't care about these things... but she's worried that you're in that room too, and if you see it with your own eyes, you won't be able to get over it."

"Everyone has their own destiny. To be honest, I'm very content just to be able to attend classes with Granny Zhao."

Wang's delight was like a mouse stealing oil: "Isn't she better than Madam Chen?"

"It's not just better, it's worlds apart. What Granny Zhao said before wasn't wrong; the etiquette she taught wasn't particularly outstanding. But what's most important is her knowledge of palace etiquette, the organization and characteristics of banquets, interpersonal relationships, and the mistakes made by ladies and young women. Madam Chen might know a little bit, but she definitely won't reach that level. By the way, Mother, let's decline Madam Chen's invitation! There's no need to invite her again!"

“But… if you marry into the Xu family and say that you learned from Madam Chen, they will look at you with more respect.”

"You really are something... If I said I had learned from Granny Zhao, would the Xu family think much more highly of me?"

"Oh, really! Even Mother didn't think of this!"

"What's so surprising? Isn't this the truth?" The tone was even more unpleasant.

“Wenwen…” Madam Wang had no temper with her at all.

"I won't say any more! Don't worry, if your daughter can't handle these things, she won't have a good life in the Xu family!"

In the past two days, the three Mo sisters have broadened their horizons to a level far exceeding their original family background. The intelligent Mo Wen deeply felt that Granny Zhao's words had not been spoken in vain. In just a few days, she discovered that her way of thinking was different from before.

This change made her both happy and uneasy.

The next morning after breakfast, Granny Zhao said, "They'll be bringing quite a few fabrics and clothing styles in a little while. I hope you can decide on your own attire based on what you've learned in class these past few days."

There's a saying: "Clothes reflect the person." In other words, your clothing choices are a reflection of your inner self. Therefore, who you are, what you're doing, and the reasons behind your clothing choices are things a girl needs to consider.

Actually, this teaching method was a decision she made later. She discovered that Mo Yi was a practical and clear-headed young woman, a promising talent. Regardless of what the future held, she was willing to mentor and nurture her.

"Girl, feel free to choose boldly. Just have your own reasons. Don't be afraid of making the wrong choice. In the end, I'll help you make the final decision."

This was another test for her… Mo Yi nodded silently. Granny Zhao's teaching wasn't just about instructing and correcting; it also involved countless opportunities for her to reflect and learn on her own…

"Also, remember that no matter what kind of clothes you wear, they will only enhance your look if you can carry them off. Otherwise, you'll just appear pretentious and affected. You'll panic and become a laughingstock if anything unexpected happens!"

Mo Yi deeply agreed with these principles, so when she went to Dajue Temple last time, she resolutely refused to wear the clothes that Mo Wen brought.

Mo Wen felt this deeply: Mo Yuan loves pursuing the style of clothes, and even after a garment is finished, she'll add or alter it herself. She'll wear expensive jewelry even without an occasion, constantly flaunting it. She's just shallow and restless at heart.

Mo Yi was too petty; she didn't understand that even if one doesn't go out, dressing up and grooming reflects one's spirit and energy! Over time, it will affect one's overall demeanor. Thinking of this, she couldn't help but feel a little anxious. If only she could discuss it with Granny Zhao!

Mo Yuan blinked her alluring eyes, while also examining herself... along with a mixture of contempt and jealousy for Mo Wen... and disdain for Mo Yi.

While the three were preoccupied with their own thoughts, the tailors arrived.

Several people slurped in, led by a short, white-bearded old man, followed by two women and a young waiter. Red Beauty and Green Dew were also there.

Needless to say, the Mo family members were once again standing outside watching the spectacle.

"Madam!" The old man must have enjoyed the food; his face was shiny with oil, and his eyes were squinting as he smiled.

Granny Zhao said, "Miss Mo, this is Master Jiang!"

"Master Jiang!"

"Time is limited, bring everything out!" Zhao Mama instructed.

The old man bowed in response, nodded to the person next to him, and immediately got to work.

Watching them work was just like watching the girls work last time; in four words, they were methodical and orderly.

A rustling sound was heard. Soon, several sets of clothes were hung up, the fabric laid out, and several pairs of shoes were also brought out. Hongyan was arranging jewelry on a nearby table… Everyone was astonished by the sight of these clothes.

Even Mo Yi grinned: I want to wear this?
The Mo family girls, especially Mo Wen, certainly didn't lack clothing, but they certainly didn't have anything like this. Not just one garment, but an entire set!
Inside and outside. Up and down. I don't know how many layers there are.

The colors, patterns, and styles complement each other, creating a dazzling and confusing effect.

"Let me introduce you to the girl!"

"Let me first introduce the styles to you, young lady..." The old man spoke very softly: "The two sets on the left are spring outfits from many years ago, timeless styles. Generally speaking, you can't go wrong wearing them. The two in the middle are the latest spring outfits, imported from Tianyi Pavilion in Jiangnan. Right now, many people are ordering these styles."

This garment, it is said, originated from the first outfit worn by our Imperial Concubine during the New Year. Everyone who saw it was awestruck, and upon returning, they all imitated it. It was also the most popular style among spring garments. In my humble opinion, it was made by Master Hu of the palace. He had a unique understanding of clothing... and brought out several trends.”

Mo Yi's eyes were darting around, she was so nervous. Could she really pull off such an outfit? If she wore it, she'd probably burst out laughing and wouldn't be able to walk properly.
The way the Imperial Concubine was brought out was exactly what Mo Yuan wanted. Her eyes lit up, and she sighed softly, "The Imperial Concubine must be as beautiful as a fairy!"

Granny Zhao smiled calmly and said nothing.

"The two sets on the far right are our own new arrivals!"

One of the dresses, a dark-patterned crepe satin with a gauze overlay, caught Mo Yi's eye at first glance.

The high collar and fitted shoulders, combined with the looser chiffon below, create a look that is neither too formal nor too over-the-top.

It was conservative yet casual, not highlighting her feminine charm. She instinctively felt this suited her best.

After discussing the styles, they started introducing the fabrics. It seemed that Granny Zhao was quite knowledgeable about these things. The two of them looked at the fabrics and talked, making it seem more like they were having a chat.

The atmosphere was casual, and Sister Mo listened with great interest, touching the objects with her hands.

The touch of those fabrics, whether thin or thick, luxurious or simple, evokes a strange sense of pleasure.

"This outer layer of the garment, this is the fabric, a new variety from last year called 'Xiangluo'. It's woven from Xiangyun yarn and 'luo' (a type of silk). Don't be fooled by its silk appearance; feel it. It's very thick and heavy, both warm and insulated. It's perfect for wearing as an outer layer in this weather. The texture is excellent, with a stable and subtle sheen. This piece..."

He kept talking and would even pick things up and gesture them on the girls.

We should have selected the fabrics specifically for Mo Yi beforehand, so every piece of fabric suits her perfectly.

The girls listened for a while, and then they saw Mowen carefully examining a piece of white, cotton-like, silk-like, very thin material. Zhao Mama whispered, "Why did he bring this piece as well? This is made by the Imperial Household Department, specially made for the masters in the palace to use as undergarments. You can't buy it outside!"

"No wonder it feels so good..." Mo Wen exclaimed.

"Hmm, soft, absorbent, and breathable—it's no cheaper than those fancy fabrics! You have a good eye, young lady!"

Mo Wen blushed with excitement at being praised.

“Miss Mo, I’m going to make four sets of clothes for you this time, but I’ll choose two in the end. Sometimes, even if a dress looks nice, it doesn’t look good when you wear it.”

Four sets?! You're only choosing two? What about the other two?
Is that such a waste?

"On the day of entering the palace, wear one set of clothes and bring another! Oh, generally speaking, for important occasions, you will bring an extra set of clothes. In case of an accident, it would be impolite to wear dirty clothes."

Mo Yi is skilled at crafts, so she has a general idea of ​​how long it takes to make a garment.

This garment is so intricate, with embroidery. It's only two days before I enter the palace. How could it be made?

"Granny, is there enough time? Even with many skilled craftsmen, it would probably take several days to finish these embroidery pieces, even if they worked at a fast pace?"

"Don't worry, young lady. These clothes are all half-finished. We can make some alterations according to your measurements. Master Jiang has many skilled craftsmen under his command!"

Master Jiang nodded happily.

"Clothes can be done like this?!"

"Once the girl decides on the design, she can try it on tomorrow. If there are no alterations, it will be ready in two days! Look at these shoes, they all come in ready-made sizes! It's very convenient!"

"Alright, Miss Mo, this way please!" Granny Zhao stood in front of the table where the ornaments were displayed.

(End of this chapter)