I had a similar experience at the doctor about two weeks ago. I see a doctor for chronic pain, and it is that practice's specialty, so naturally a lot of the patients are elderly, and some are very disabled. I am in my mid thirties, and have had this chronic pain thing since I was 29. It is a (really crummy) part of my life and I have learned to live with it. One of the ways I do that is to feel good about myself. I swim for excercise, take care of myself and I usually put on makeup and a nice jeans/cords and top combo. I have a fantastic jewelry collection, so I wear my treasures.
I was waiting for my appointment when I heard two men (about 6 feet from me) speaking in loud conversational tones talking about me, and how I "must be trying to impress someone", and "was all dressed up to go somewhere." In print it doesn't look that bad, but the tone was very derisive. I had black corduroys, ankle boots with 2 inch heels, a pretty top with ribbon rosettes along the neckline, a camel suede jacket and pretty dangly earrings. I had makeup on and had my very long red hair in a twist.
At first I was offended, but then I thought that they were probably feeling kind of underdressed in comparison, (sweatpants and flannel shirts) and like so many people, were trying to make themselves feel better by putting down the person "making them look bad." Basic bully tactic.
