I think it's been well over a year since I did a WiW. Here I've come back from the hairdresser and Pet Club--92° out. There was a time when I wouldn't wear black and white--too high contrast for me, and wouldn't wear horizontal stripes around the lower body. Since my abdominal injury I can't stand tight things around my middle and I've gained weight on that same middle. Well, change or die.

#1 Today: Banana Republic knit skirt and a Bobeau top. Odette at Nordstrom Valley Fair (love her enthusiasm) insisted I buy a wide belt with a big brass buckle to put low over the top--right over my tummy. And that was long before the injury. I returned the belt.

Normally I'd wear a necklace or pendant with this neckline, and I wouldn't wear sleeveless in public, but since I was going to the hairdresser, I didn't bother. And it's hot outside.

#2-3 I had one hour last Monday to shop NAS in person. Wandered around, didn't see too much until I spotted this Lafayette jacket. The leather is incredibly soft and lovely and although I don't "need" another jacket, I need this one. It is snug across the belly, but this will be even greater motivation for me to return to my regular size.

#4 I saw the Nik + Zoe skirt on Une Femme's NAS picks and loved it. It is a soft rayon knit, lined, and doesn't squeeze. No hem, so if it is too long, I'd have to have it taken up from the waist and that would hurt the proportions. After years of nearly all skirts and dresses being too short, it is great this year to find some length. I've read that this often comes across as matronly. I would wear it with boots or booties, and as Mom used to say about herself, "I'm no spring chicken."

I wish the texture showed better but you can see it on the website photo.

#5 I spotted this Elie Tahari stretch silk top and immediately thought of those dinners out when you need something dressy but not fussy. Illusion sleeves--I'm graduating into Mature territory--my first venture into sheer illusion fabric. The shoulder has kind of a knotted gather--not ruffly.

So when I went to check out the sales associate said it was "sweet." I almost put it back but I love it and decided to get your opinion. Is this too, too sugary? I will be an old lady but I'd rather be a tough old dame than "sweet."

Okay, if you've read this far, I'll tell you a secret. I am three-score and 11 years old. See, when I grew up "ladies" didn't tell their age. Urp.