Week One - Patterned Tops:

(Thanks Anchie for the Challenge; I may add more as the week goes on but this is what I’ve worn so far)

I tend to prefer solid clothes and add contrast and pattern in small amounts with shoes, accessories and bags, but I want to try some of my patterned tops to see how I could be comfortable wearing them. I often feel like it’s too much and want to put something solid over them which doesn’t work well in hot weather

1&2 - blue and white floral cotton top with interesting sleeves. This is not the best shape for me, but it’s cropped enough that it works. I may see if I can get the side seams curved a little to show some waist definition. I like it best with the white jeans, but for practical reasons wore it with blue jeans at home.

3&4 - WHBM reversible silky shell with jeans and light gray duster, platform Sorel sandals. I feel really comfortable i this and like the watercolor feel of the top.

5&6 - another silky shell in pale lavender with ruched gray mermaid tail hem skirt. I think there is too much going on here for me and would prefer the top with plain bottoms. In the end I switched to a plain solid smartwool hiking tee and light bag and shoes.

7&8 - sheer black, white and gray blouse with silver waxed jeans, snakeskin sandals and magenta bag, bracelet and lips. I think I could use almost any color bag with this outfit. Silver orchid earrings and necklace.

Conclusion: I need to stick with tops that skim my waist and show some curve, I prefer misty watercolor patterns or more subtle florals, only one pattered or textured item per outfit with everything else fairly simple is my comfort zone. I much prefer the soft patterns in the two shells than the more precise ones in 1&2 & 7&8.