Ah, Lisa -- yes, I see what you mean about the shoes. I agree they are not exactly high fashion territory. But the fun leopard print ones are WAY too hot and heavy for the purpose. I am going to be in Beijing in July. Need I say more? Those leopard babies do not breathe much, if at all. This Ecco is specifically a summer sneaker. And unless I am deluding myself, they actually look pretty nifty on. I'll try to snap some pics tomorrow. They're incredibly lightweight, breathable, and flexible, but with some support. I've had such great luck with Ecco shoes for travel before that I'm pretty sure they will work well.
Shedev, we are finally sandal twins. I never did get mine from my local store and they never let me know what was happening. So much for local shopping!
Ummlila -- Beijing, July. And I should probably put myself on a blue fast, but then I would never buy anything, because my entire closet is blue, pretty much!
Thanks, Gaylene -- I will try to snap some pictures tomorrow. I like the skirt in theory, but I'm thinking maybe it's too pricey for the amount of wear I'll give it. I'm just not sure. You see, though, it is all your fault that I am on a Club Monaco jag. I got those few items a few weeks ago and loved them so much I couldn't resist revisiting the store.
Thanks, abc. You know all about hot weather, so I'm definitely listening to you. The gingham top is really, really lightweight -- perfect for extreme heat. Hint hint....
Thanks for the vote of confidence, Joyce. And Cheryl, I understand your hesitation. This one is made of a really light fabric so is not as voluminous as it might seem.
Carter, thank you! I will try to snap some pics tomorrow. The Loft dress is a bit on the short side but I think it will pass for a very casual situation.
Oh, Sharan, you are balm to my guilty conscience. However, since you actually SEW 3/4 of your amazing wardrobe, I still think I owe a little bit more guilt. You are spot on that it is the angled hem that attracts me to this skirt -- as well as what I perceive as a bit of a "wild card" element. I have been wearing pants and tube skirts with sheath dresses (supplemented by one shirt dress) as my summer staples for 4 years; I thought it would be fun to shake things up a bit with a trapeze dress and a voluminous skirt. Also, these shapes can be very cool in the heat. So...it's worth a try -on, anyway.
Unfrumped, those are words of wisdom. I need to do a bit of playing with that skirt. I think it has some potential, but I'm still not sure it will see a lot of wear in my life.