I have finally arisen from slumber. This "fall back" has been a welcomed change. I did not like the idea of leaving the house in the morning while it was still dark. Any way.
I was really enamored by the pinterest picture that inspired this look and truly enjoyed the juxtaposition.
Ornella - my accessory was just outside of the shot. He was still getting ready to go. As far as how I am able to make this look ladylike, hmm... I really didn't do much in the way of accessories. I think if pressed to answer I would say everything has been pressed (not the day of but at some point before wearing) and the fact that the shirt hem is tucked and the sleeves are neatly rolled instead of scrunched. I think the overall neat appearance makes this "ladylike" even if it is a military jacket khakis and a flannel gingham shirt.
Deborah - I really appreciate what you said about my ability to "carry" a look. I definitely like to try different things but in all fairness I really don't think I try anything too far beyond my comfort zone. I know where I live sartorially. RATE though I admire it, is not a look that I could carry, nor is a look that is overly relaxed and beachy.
Lantana - I have been rethinking plaid and gingham for the past few months. Before this fall season neither existed in my closet. I think it was all of the pins I kept seeing and how differently these patterns were styled that got me thinking differently. I encourage you to play around with at least one item.
Mochi -- I think you're right it's the boyishness that I like in this outfit. A man could turn around and wear these exact pieces (maybe not the shoes) and look quite "manly". There I go again with my special brand of androgyny. Interesting I hadn't considered that until you mentioned it.
JulieJohn - wow I'm glad I could give you a different perspective on crisp looks. Yes my bias is toward crispy (wow are we talking potato chips here ??? ;-)) looks but I never aim to be unapproachable. I keep hearing my mom's admonitions from when I was a little girl "look neat". I just want to look neat.
Jan0912 - I think my secret is not much of a secret. I think it's my preference for structure in my clothing. I have a rounded "cuddly" body (I have frequently been referred to as a bear -- as in teddy bear by many of my friends over the years. Oddly enough these friends did not know each other). I don't like too much fluid or flow in my clothes -- some is nice. So I think the structured pieces I prefer are a good skeleton for the perfect balance of form and flow -- I think that's where my crispness comes from.
Angie - I think you put your finger on the pulse of why this looks works.
