I haven't made the time for a full closet review yet, but I did go through my skirts last weekend. It was... difficult. Some skirts were easy decisions, but others aren't. A number of them have a lot of good wear in them, that I feel affection for. But I've slowly gained about 25 pounds in 5 years, and most of it's on my hips. It profoundly affects the fit of more A-line skirts, as they ride higher on my torso and even above my waist.

My style has also evolved a bit. I used to try to blend in more, not emphasizing my waist as much, and settling for a gentle hourglass shape. I did a lot of vintage and made-from-vintage patterns, but in unobtrusive styles and separates. Mixed in were the best modern pieces I could find. Skirts had to fit smoothly on the hips, tops had to be shaped through the waist with enough hip room and just the right length. It wasn't easy, but it was the first time I had my own aesthetic, and the challenge was fun.

The shift into my present style was a combination of factors. The mainstream acceptance of dress and full skirts; weight gain; eShakti; and growing confidence and acceptance of standing out. I really do like where I am now.

Trying on these skirts was unexpectedly fraught, especially the veterans of my previous style. They didn't fit quite like they used to, of course. And with all of the memories, it's hard for me to assess them for current use. I would really appreciate advice on some of these.

#1-3: Pale pink skirt with printed floral border in bright pink and orange. This doesn't have a true waistband, so it actually fits better than it used to. A keep for now.

#4-9: Fine white cotton tiered skirt. This is a beautiful item, that feels wonderful on. But I don't know how it works now. It's too loose to tuck effectively, and the bias grain of the top tiers and lining are distorted by my curves. (See wrinkle in #6; I fixed it with a tug for #7, but it would come back.) It's also a bit boho for me. Boho is a style that I feel leanings toward, and experimented with many times, but somehow does not work quite right for me. I would really LIKE to make it work, because it's so much fun to wear. But I can't come up with a combination that's fitted enough at the waist and doesn't involve fiddly layers or slippy belting.

#10-13: Soft khaki sateen pleated skirt. This was a workhorse. It doesn't have a true waistband either, but the narrow belt creates an illusion. It definitely looks a lot thicker at the profile than I'm used to looking. And khaki does my skin tone no favors.

#14-17: Khaki poplin pleated skirt; an earlier eShakti purchase, and I really liked it for a while. It's riding a little high from my weight gain, and I'm not sure if the pleats are a good idea for the back view.

#18-20: Denim gored skirt, an even older workhorse. Definitely riding high, and the seams are distorted by my curves.

Ideas?