Keep or toss? Plus another red coat pic

Hello ladies,

I am looking for help with a couple of items in my closet.

First, a pair of CM black pants that I rarely wore - you can't see it, but they have a bit of a sheen and back pockets like jeans (patch?). The pants are about 8 yrs old, and they are a bit loose around the hips. They are also cut looser through the thigh than current fashion dictates. The question is, can I rescue them for semi-dressy occasions like going to a theater? Buying a new pair for that purpose doesn't make a lot of sense right now. I was thinking wearing them like this:

http://i293.photobucket.com/al.....G_6246.jpg
http://i293.photobucket.com/al.....6249-1.jpg (back view)

Second - orphan black lace top. It comes with a black cami. I only wore it a couple of times and I am not sure if I should get rid of it. Any suggestions on how to wear it?

http://i293.photobucket.com/al.....G_6239.jpg

I am also including a picture of my new red coat that I am still undecided on - with white scarf and Converse. Is this look still age-appropriate? (Also for Angie to see :)).

http://i293.photobucket.com/al.....G_6235.jpg

I followed Ana's advice on brightening up the pictures (thank you Ana) - they are a little better but still not quite there. My apologies.

Thank you!

17 years ago

Lee Hovey

Active Member

I like the black pants, the outfit is adorable!!

I think the lace shirt could be a good layering pieces. So of t he other more experienced girls might have better specific ideas for you.

Tanya

Veteran

First I must say that the red coat and the whole outfit with it is pure perfection, so adorable!

I like the black pants and the outfit with it, I don't see any issues with them whatsoever. When you say you use them for the theater do you mean a movie theater ot to go see a play/musical? They are in my opinion two completely different animals, the second type of theater requires much dressier clothes.

I am not a big fan of the lace top on it's own, but I agree that it would make a nice layering piece, with a bit of lace just peeking through.

marianne

Thanks ladies! Tanya, I mean for a play or symphony - or any other event where jeans are not appropriate, especially during warmer months, because in winter I'd usually wear wool pants. These pants are slightly on a dressier side, because of the sheen. Seattle is very casual, so I wouldn't be underdressed

Thanks for the clarification Marianne! I think your pants are perfect for the occassions you describe.

JewelryGirl

I had a black pointele top similar to your lace one (before I shrunk it & had to give it to my daughter). Anyway, I put different light colored cami's under it. Really made a difference. Just a thought. Love the outfit as well, you could do that in a pinch easy!

Antje

Marianne, the red coat with the cream scarf and the grey Converse is, as Tanya rightly says, pure perfection. You look SOOO good, please please keep the coat Very urban-chic.

I also think the black pants are fine. As you say, they could be a bit more fitted in the back, but if you need black pants for certain occasions like the theater then I think these'll do. You'll want to update them eventually but I don't think it needs to be a high priority. (And I love how you put the outfit together with the white blouse and red top and belt!)

I'm on the fence regarding the lace top. I actually like it, but I'm not sure it's your style based on the limited knowledge I have of your style and preferences. You didn't say whether you liked the top or not, and I think that's key. If you like it and feel pretty in it, I'd keep it. If you're neutral or don't care for it, then I'd toss it, as I think it's not a "perfectly Marianne" type of garment. Does that make sense?

(Edited as the last but one sentence was missing an important "not".)

tarzy

I don't think a pair of black pants should really be considered a closet orphan. You may not wear them a lot, but they are absolutely a good thing to have. I've attended two unexpected funerals this past year, and I was so glad I had dressy black pants in my closet. (Of course, I hope you don't have to go to any funerals!) Those look good on you. I'd definitely keep them, unless you have another pair of dressy black pants that look even better.

And I love the red trench on you. The whole outfit is fabulous and I would never even think it was not age-appropriate!

Nicole

I see nothing wrong with the black pants. Unless you already own another pair (or two) of this kind of pant, I say keep them.

Maybe try wearing a red or maroon camisole under the black top? The black on black makes me think of a mourning outfit.

The jacket is very cute. You look great in red!

Ariadne

The red jacket is fantastic, and I love it with the cream scarf and grey cons.

I don't like the lace top; honestly, it feels old-ladyish to me. I say donate it.

I agree that the pants are just fine--I quite like them, actually--and that you should hang on to them. If you don't love them, replace them when you can, but don't make it a priority since it sounds like you don't need them too often.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Marianne, you look HOT in tomato red! Love seeing you venture out of your box. Killer with the converse and perfect for Spring. KEEP!

The black pants are fine. Nice.

I like the black lace top too. Is it long enough to wear with pants? Can’t see from the picture.

Patience

Marianne, I love the red coat, its outfit and the black pants outfit. Chic! I'm with Antje on the lace top-- I like it but it's more fussy than we usually see you. But that means maybe you should keep it (assuming you feel good wearing it) to be unexpected sometimes.

Thanks for all the feedback and all the compliments on the coat! Sorry it's taking me so long to get over the bright color thing.

As for pants, I just wanted to make sure they are passable for now and not too saggy. I know the fit is not ideal and it makes me self-conscious, but if it works in an outfit that's great to hear.

The lace top is the only thing I ever bought at anthropologie (on big sale). Patience and Antje, you may be right and it's not really my style. Abundant lace isn't quite my cup of tea, but I like some elements like the sleeves and the neckline, and I like Tanya's idea of layering, but I am not sure how to implement it. Maybe it needs something structured over it? Angie, it is indeed long enough for pants.

Maya

I can't believe you ever doubted you looked good in red Marianne. I think you look sensational in the coat, pants, and everything else!

Lena

Marianne, you look terrific in your red coat! It looks so fresh and ready for spring with white scarf and converse (which also have white).

I also like your first outfit. I think this b&w and red combo is smashing on you.

Bumping to gather any more ideas on the lace top. I am still thinking of possible layering - do you think it'll work with a vest?

Thank you guys again, you're all so sweet.

I think that the lace top would work nice with a vest, but I'd have to see a photo for sure. How about a boyfriend V-neck cardi in black or grey, belted over it?

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