I've been struggling with fashion ennui. Maybe it's the fact that much of my life is up in the air. Will we move in the next year? Should I stay at my present job? Maybe it's the fact that I've been working on body changes that are moving -- but at a g-l-a-c-i-a-l pace. Maybe it's just that Summertime casual dressing is more challenging.

At any rate. I've found that little things mean a lot.

1. Using a signature color: cobalt. Adding white for freshness.
2. The value of a faux tuck -- or the modern feel of a visible belt
3. Embrace the Cons for a quick modern hit
4. Don't forget the flattery of the bootcut --- trends be damned!
5. Try a pop of color that's bad for your face but good for your spirits!
(My yellow bag goes with all my favorite colors, if not my complexion)
6. Try new combinations, and don't forget the classic!
(The last look, worn to Church, is a take on a preppy classic: pencil skirt
with button down and pearls. The skirt is completely ruched poplin.
I'd prefer with my patent pumps, but I was walking to Church, so the
ballet flats were the better choice) Next time, I think I'll tuck the
generous sized blouse into my, er, panties, to keep it crisper.

I still worry about looking, a little "suburbanite bright." You know, like a grownup Gymboree advert.

Questions: Am I hiding behind bright color, or do I seem to you like a true high-contrast girl? How do you gauge the boundary between vibrant and hectic?

P.S. NEED HAIRCUT!