JAileen - I'm used to seeing indigo, as well, but shibori is defined by the technique rather than the dye, so I guess there's no reason why it can't be another color!
Jules - Yes! I'm hoping for something with some longevity. I think of "statement pieces" as things that help define my wardrobe for more than a season.
lisap - The more I think about it, the more I think I'd be happy to come out of this fall refresher season with only a couple of new pieces. Of course, I say that now, but the acquisition rush can be hard to resist.
RobinF and StyleFan - I don't know that I've ever actually owned a poncho! I always worry about them being fussy when I'm moving around a lot and working with my hands. I think the over-the-head variety might work better than the open-front type, though.
viva - It's different, isn't it?
smittie - I wonder if we're working with different definitions of "statement piece." For me, those are pieces that become emblematic of my wardrobe at certain times, and are always the ones commented on, no matter what I wear them with. This summer, I think my cognac sandals are my statement piece. Last fall, it was the wool hat. Over the winter, probably my gold-toecap boots and my rust duster sweater. I agree with you about the essentials, though. Happily, I'm still sitting pretty nicely on those after last fall, although I'm on a slow upgrade path.
