I went to the mall today for the first time in a while. I went into 5-6 stores and came home empty handed. Angie’s talking today about shopping early for spring for more covered clothing resonates with me. That’s what I did last year, and quite a few pieces have held up from last year, so I need less this year.

A couple thoughts - high rise pants seem to abound right now. I’m looking for looser legged pants instead of jeans. I don’t like low rise, but these high rise pants make me look like a grandpa. They come up at least 3 inches over my belly button. I wear tops out, not tucked in, but I’m going to struggle with this silhouette. I guess I may get used to the look, but I haven’t found anything flattering in this waistline to date.

I only need clothing that works for over 100 degrees. That’s a tough order to get good, but cool coverage. I would love to shop only in B & M stores, but I must have tried on over 30 items, and wasn’t even tempted. If I’m to dress myself, I don’t see how I can do it without turning to online shopping.

ETA - Angie may be on a roll finding dresses this year, but I’m in year 3 of having a tough go finding what I’m looking for in dresses. Sleeves, knee length, and not sweltering. Not too casual or too dressy. I am trying not to hit the stores too often, so I’m not coming across them organically. I will likely focus on skirts instead, as they are sometimes easier to find.