Apr 17, 2010

Sassy, sexy aprons shrug off sexism, tie on a trendBy Nancy LofholmDenverPost.com

When Kate Linehan ties on her apron, she feels a bit like Super Woman slipping into her cape. Behind that flutter of fabric, Linehan is empowered and ready to take on any task.

“I love aprons so much. I love their functionality. They create a sense of being in control. You put on the apron and you are ready to go,” said the 26-year-old apron collector and creator from Aspen.

Recession, nostalgia and, yes, girl power are fueling a trend that has women of all ages and interests tying on aprons. These aprons may serve as spill catchers, hand wipers and garden-tool holders. But they are also fashion statements. “Hip” and “hot” are adjectives often used to describe today’s aprons.

Aprons sporting names like “Whisk Me” and “Mai Tai” are turning up on runways and rock-concert stages. Aprons have their own Facebook pages and Twitter accounts. There are apron blogs and a magazine devoted to aprons. A Dutch art gallery has an exhibit devoted entirely to aprons.

A plethora of apron websites like Tie One On, Calamity Jane’s Cottage and The Apron Shoppe tout the home-cooking and gardening lifestyle while also selling aprons featuring everything from iPod pockets to rhinestone ties.

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