1. I think the two clamdiggers are different enough that you would probably get equal wear out of them, because you would probably wear them with different things.

2. I think it's fine to wear capris when it's cold outside if you're warm enough. Layering your top would look cute--maybe pair them with ballet flats and a swingy sweater jacket in a bright color:

http://www.jcrew.com/catalog/p.....d=cat90224

http://www.jcrew.com/catalog/p.....=cat303174

http://www.jcrew.com/catalog/p.....=cat303174

3. Black and white and brown and white are great combos. Add bright colors to make them more "summery." Black and white has many options--lime, yellow, bright pink, red, cobalt blue, etc. Brown and white looks great with yellow.

I generally agree with Ana.

1. White and denim clamdiggers are indeed different enough IMO.

2. Ana's suggestions are spot on. You could also try a woven trapeze jacket over a long sleave fitted tee.

3. I also love both black&white and brown&white in the summer. Few more suggestions for "pop" colors for the second option: orange, fuschia, teal/turquoise.

Lovely advice!

Marianne, it wasn't really a rule. It was merely an interesting wardrobe observation that this particular shopping strategy does not work for me, but I know plenty of people who this does work for and it sounds like you should hang on to your white clamdiggers.

Thank you ladies, that helps tremendously! One more think - do you think they could also work with black or brown blazer-like jacket over bright-colored top?

Angie, I was somewhat joking about that one. I tend to buy more bottoms than tops, and each time I get a new set of bottoms I think, "oh I just get something to wear with it" and then never do. As for these pants, I really like how versatile they are, but I feel like I might not be keeping things in perspective by getting another pair! Hope it makes sense, at least a little.

Absolutely. And you make perfect sense!

I wear my walking and bermuda shorts in cool weather--after all MA is known for it's crazy temperature fluctuations. I am a on HUGE cardigan kick, so that's usually what I pair them with...but even a long sleeve embellished top, with a contrasting cami peeking out underneath would look great too.

I took a picture of a tentative outfit:
http://i293.photobucket.com/al.....ure025.jpg
What do you think? The tags are still on.

Nicole, I know what you mean. Usually it's freezing when I go to work in the morning, even during the hottest part of the summer, so layers are ideal. I do need to get more cardis, right now I only have a couple in winterish colors :(

I like this outfit a lot Marianne! Very cute. How would you feel about getting the front pockets removed and sewn shut so they don't show through?

I completely agree with Ana, the outfit is very cute indeed and it would be even cuter with the pockets removed.

I third Ana and Tanya's comments. This is great combination and very versatile. You look slim, polished and very confident!

I hate white pants pocket show thru...I don't know why designers do not address this problem. I don't know too many women who would complain if their pants had dummy pockets.

Edit: Oooh another acronym WPPST

Wow, you guys are quick! Yes, I'd probably remove the pockets myself if I keep the pants. OK, I'll be the first one to pick up the new acronym - I really don't know what's up with WPPST. Nobody uses those pockets anyway, I don't know why they wouldn't make them purely decorative.

Very cute, Marianne! I say go for it even if the weather isn't fully cooperating. It is June after all!

Gorgeous Marianne! You look absolutely fabulous in clams. White makes it all right! Good rule of thumb for Summer.

Thank you Angie! I also appreciate everyone's help in getting me over the black top/white bottom prejudice. Looks like I have to start working on the pockets...