Came across unfrumped's post on buying an entire capsule at once and it was very appropriate, as I did exactly that yesterday at Tommy Bahama. I spent the afternoon shopping at Macy's, WHBM, J Crew, Banana Republic and Anthro without finding anything that fit me right or that I loved. But then at the last minute I stopped by Tommy Bahama's. DH likes their Hawaiian style shirts. I was attracted to their coral and turquoise dresses and ended up buying several pieces that all matched and could go together as a nice summer travel capsule. It would be great for a cruise or Hawaii trip--everything is mix and match and packable non-iron material.

I of course wanted to wear it right away so I wore a dress and cardi today (1-6). But the rest of it is a K/R, and actually I bought two pieces in the same print because I couldn't tell which one I liked better. But looking at the pics, neither is the most flattering for my apple shape, so wondering which one I should keep (if any). Do you prefer the tunic, or maxi dress, or neither? It's a little exaggerated in the pics because of the overhead lighting casting shadows, but I do worry a little about the pregnant-looking tummy.

I have this idea in my head that I want to wear a maxi dress for my birthday party (I'm having a combined birthday party with DD, who wanted an undersea theme with Ariel the mermaid). So I could either do the one in 10-13, or I have a sea-theme one on order from Nordstrom (#22) that might work better (yes, I'm corny about themes).

Thanks for your input!

1-6. WIW 6/27. Leaves Afire tank dress and turquoise Malia cardi (sized down to XS for a more fitted look) and turquoise tile bracelet. Yes, the matchy matchy cardi over dress look might be a little old church lady frumpish, but it was fun. I wore this to work and got lots of compliments. Can't believe how well this outfit goes with the rest of my turquoise accessories, especially the Kate Spade turquoise pumps! WHBM necklace and Cole Haan from DSW purse. And matching little man. I think this dress could work well in the summer with flat sandals and fall too with leggings and boots.

7-10. Desert Oasis tunic vs. 11-16. Desert Oasis maxi dress--which one, or neither due to apple tummy?

17-20. Cardi, coral and white tank tops and Monkey see turquoise shorts. The SA who was helping me was wearing this exact outfit and I copied her entire outfit, LOL! That's even more silly/embarrassing than ripping clothes off a mannequin or buying an entire outfit straight from the catalog picture (both of which I have also done), but she said she didn't mind and was flattered.

21. Moroccan Tile bracelets in red and turquoise.

22. Lilly Pulitzer maxi dress--on order from Nordstrom. I can't resist anything with seahorses on it! If this works, it would be in lieu of the Desert Oasis maxi dress.