Pluto and Personal Power
Let’s talk about that small but mighty Pluto, the planet of potent power and destruction, ruler of the dead and gatekeeper to the Underworld.
Pluto has recently begun it’s retrograde through the sign of Capricorn for the next five and a half months (April 27th - October 6th 2021).
This means, themes of personal power and rooting, legacy, the death of old systems — and the building of the new — liberation and regeneration (“A to Z Horoscope Maker and Delineator” Llewellyn George) are more charged and may be emphasized in your life if you are Pluto sensitive.
Inspired by a recent writing on Pluto Retrograde by my long-time sacred arts and astrological mentor Briana Saussy, in this post we will explore the year’s Pluto Retrograde and it’s relationship with protecting + reclaiming power… through wardrobe.
Saussy writes, “Pluto retrograde places great emphasis on the areas of our life that need to be attended to in order for us to stand fully in our sovereignty and power…not only in the obvious and visible ways but also in the less visible and hidden realms as well.”
What are those hidden realms? If you aren’t familiar with Pluto, some traditional associations of the planet are: annihilation, archeology, corruption, decadence, demolition, funerals (and of course, funeral clothing!), horror, poisons, rebirth and renewal, taxes, tyranny and turning points. (As listed in “The Rulership Book” by Rex E. Bills)
The hidden realms are…the undetected spaces…and the invisible magic used to control and shift power.
But before we get further into power, there are a few things I want to point out in relation to Pluto and STYLE:
If you don’t have a funeral outfit in your wardrobe — get one together. Funeral uniforms are a must for all wardrobes, even the capsule collections. Keep it simple and layered so that the ensemble can be worn in all seasons and pieces can be incorporated into other looks if desired.
Because I am of Western European descent and American-born, mourning dress for me is associated with the color black. Therefore, my uniform is comprised of a sleeveless, black crepe shift dress, a navy/black wool button-down sweater, simple black pumps (or wedges or flat boots –whatever I happen to have in the closet and that is in season) and black tights (or sheer tights for spring and summer). I finish this uniform with delicate earrings and/or a headband.
Dark slacks, sweaters and blazers are also welcome in deep browns, grays, blues and even green. Hair clips, scarves, hats and ribbons can be used to make the funeral outfit one’s own. Honor loved ones with a pop of their favorite color in your accessories.
Considering your culture, heritage and style values what pieces do you need for your funeral uniform and mourning dress?
Decadence. Capital “D” Decadence can be so fun and fabulous. And, lowercase “d” decadence is destructive — toward self, and others. What feels Decadent AND nutritive to your creativity, style and personal expression at this time? How might decadence show up as beauty?
Now, back to power and it’s relationship with the Pluto Rx + You.
How does one tap into the well of personal power and protection for purposes of liberation through wardrobe? Whew, this can go in many directions, so how about we start with what is in your closet and closest to you. What helps you tap into your deep well of personal power? Here are some suggestions.
Call on your Ancestors. Pluto governs the process of death, dying and grief as well as holy places where death has occurred. Honor spirits of the dead who(m) you have strong relationships with or who(m) you wish to build relationships with by wearing something of theirs or that is inspired by their dress. What messages, stories, and strengths can be channeled through these wardrobe choices?
Experiment through Personal Adornment and Makeup. Metal cuffs, buttons, rings and earrings can be used as an armor to protect the physical and spiritual body. Black or coal eyeliner channels the deep and wet earth-rock Pluto governs.
Make time for physical self-care. Take a steam bath (fully body, hands and or face), add oils to the scalp and nail beds, hydrate with water, give oneself a lower tummy/reproductive organ massage or self reiki. Pluto rules this lower area of the body.
Final Questions:
Where in your life are/have you been feeling powerless? How can you reclaim and/or build power through style, creativity, art and adornment?
