Vani, the nice part about those bf cardi's is that they really are available everywhere. So if you missed this one, there will be another around the corner. I was very hesitant to try one for the longest time, but then I started seeing photos of them over dresses, and the "penny dropped", as Angie says. So I lucked out and found one in purple.
Dawn, I am so pleased you liked the vest; it raised some eyebrows at work and I wondered if it was too much.
Inge, thank you so much for the waistcoat idea! I'm going to have to invest in a new white button-down now; that one is a little sheer but it's all I have atm. And yes, when I was heavier and looming all over all my shortie friends *g*, I did feel a bit like an ogre at times. So "tall drink of water" is a very nice change!
Kari, I just finally saw the poppy-red BR dress on the clearance rack too at my BR, and for the first time! I had ordered mine online -- it was never in my local store. Enjoy it -- I bet you will look fantastic in it. Word of warning: wear something bold and strong around your neck, to minimize the Star Trek-iness of the design on the shoulders. :)
Angie, hee, I knew you would like those specs. I bust them out for special occasions; the turquoise and maroon can be tricky with all the brights I wear.
Anne, yes I think I was leaning in such a way to de-emphasize the volume of the sweater. It is like a backwards trapeze top -- the back is more fitted but the front drapes outward in a trapeze cut. It takes a little getting used to, but I like it and I love the color.