So glad it is so popular. Thanks, Marianna.

Mr. Suz is in favour. He hasn't actually seen it on, just the photos, but I'll bet he and Greg and Mr. Staysfit would agree that it looks better on, in person.

Gaylene, that is not so far from reality, as a matter of fact. We are deliberating. Will be in Victoria at the end of August.

I have to admit, that is factoring into my decision. The truth is, the last big splurge item that Angie suggested I buy turned out to be a workhorse for me. So, there is also that.

Unfrumped, that's it -- it is incredibly versatile.

Una, I don't think you would need a 6 in this because it does not have shoulders. And your hips are narrow. For most people in this item, I predict hips (#1 trouble spot) or tummy (#2 potential trouble spot) or possibly bust (#3 trouble spot) would be the deciding factors. If those are not your largest parts, then you would wear a small size.

Looks fantastic on you and I love the longer length. I have something similar in black wool, lined, but I think dark blue would be a more versatile colour. I found the first time I wore it to work I had to resist the urge to take it off before I sat down. I never wear a jacket at my desk but taking it off when I get to work defeats the purpose of wearing it, since I tend to have to layer over it outside. Anyway, it felt a bit odd at first but I got used to it. Also, if you have a long line (knee length) cardigan, you might try layering that underneath the gilet. Works for me and it might allow you to get a little more outdoor wear out of it. In terms of tops, I like mine best with a turtleneck, and I know you are also a fan of those

I vote for the gillet. And Victoria, too!

D'oh, I should have read what you said in your intro--I jumped straight to the pics. This fits well on you, I do think if there were a size 1 that might be better but Angie is probably right that 0 would be too narrow.

I have more in hips and thigh region than Suz does and I thought the gilet fit me in that region just fine. I think it's cut narrower up top than it is at the bottom.

Hmm, now I'm reconsidering...mainly because my most go-to topper is a navy schoolboy blazer. If navy is such a go-to for me, maybe I'd reach for this just as often? I often hold back on wearing the navy blazer so as not to seem preppy all the time. This would be similar colorway but no prep factor. What to do about the length though...

Brooklyn, yes -- HUGE turtleneck fan. And I also have longline cardigans -- 2 of them. I prefer a longline cardigan to any other kind.

My outside the home work (such as it is) involves a LOT of standing. I stand when I teach, much of the time. I stand when I give readings and presentations. I stand when I introduce people. I stand at Festivals and other writerly events. I need a dramatic piece that does not call too much attention to itself but gives attention to me at such times.

C1, do an Ask Angie. And maybe order if you want to and take more pics. It does not cost to TRY it.

Aw, Suz - thanks for indulging me! #2 and 3 could be problems for me. I'm just going to admire this on you and am thrilled you found a piece that you love so deeply!

Well I think it would be perfect for you then Suz. I am very much desk bound in my job! I think it is a great statement piece.

Suz, It looks great on you!!! It's inspiring to see how you styled it.

Ah, Suz, toss those mitts, snow boots, and puffers. Victorians cut their lawns in January. Better shopping--plus Angie and Seattle are just an hour and a half away via high speed ferry!

I adore this on you, it is a stunning piece and look at how many outfits you just created with it on a whim? Nice!

I love it on you Suz. As have my grey one for 2 years now I can witness that it is very useful INDOOR wear in our climate. It is a perfect layering piece which does not conflict with any sleeves and adds a lot of drama and sass without any movement restrictions. It adds warmth to a blouse or shirt in winter but a cooler option than a jacket if you run hot.
My only word of caution from experience: if you plan to wear it OUT of the house make sure you have at least one coat which is long enough for each season you want to wear it in. I find my grey gilet is an inch longer than my trenches and I tend NOT to wear it with them: I cannot stand it peeking from under a coat. It just does not seem streamlined to me. I have one puffer and one wool coat which are long enough to cover it so I can wear it all winter long.
Although you may be not as particular about the length here as I am so it may not bother you...
Oh and just for the record - I do not have any issues to sit all day in mine at all!

Svetlana, thank you! I know yours is a workhorse for you and I often wished I had ordered that one. I think this one is thicker fabric, maybe...it is almost felted (as melton is). But I still think your comments apply.

I am just as particular about length of coats. I know that one of my trenches is about this length but I need to try it on to test.

I think this means I may be in the market for a midi-mancoat? Hmmmm.. Too bad Danier is gone!! That is where we discovered yours.

But I'll bet I can snap one up on ebay or something as they are not the coat of the moment. Hmmmm.

Suz,
As soon as I saw your pictures, I thought "perfect for readings!" And then I read in and saw you'd see that too, of course! It is smashing on you and I think you'll wear the heck out of it, I bought a long gilet at last year's NAS and not only have I loved it, I miss not having a summer equivalent.

Nadya, I guess we need to shop the sales for the summer versions, then, don't you think?

I would totally buy this gilet from Madewell if it was in stock in my size. It's only $54 and is shorter and made of a lightweight material. Posting in case anyone else is interested.

It's really nice. In Canada it is $124. That's the sale price.

I mean, people. $54 vs. $124???????

Suz, for me nothing beats the Vince turtleneck

Sheesh! So glad I don't have to buy clothing in Canada.

But you're keeping the gilet, right? I agree that it has your name on it.

FWIW, I wear various vests/gilets ALL.THE.TIME. I love them because they don't restrict my movement but still keep me a little warm(er) and they are a Third Piece. Sleeve cuffs can get dirty or get in the way; no problem with a gilet.

Now of course you realize that none of us enablers have to pay your bills, right?

Must. Keep. ( or it will haunt you)

It is definitely you, Suz. If you could only get one piece from NAS, this should be it.

Suz this looks fabulous on you. Size looks good but it is hard to discern on the screen. And please don't shorten. I love the length. I have something similar and its a really important piece in my wardrobe. I wear it across most seasons (not exreme heat) and it looks especially fab worn with a sleeveless top like your turtleneck. I think if it works within your budget I would keep. I think it's one of those items with considerable longevity that you will be really pleased you have. It's special, and it does 'look like you'.

I am glad that is all sorted out and you are going to keep this piece. Factor in the joy per wear and it is a bargain!

I am very late to the party and have only one thing to say: please keep!!-)

Looks gorgeous - keep!

KEEP!
What is not to love?

I am simply wowed by this piece and how you have styled it. Bravo! Stunning!

I love this on you. My favorite looks are the darker, tonal colors but I love it with that dress also. I actually didn't expect to like it because it isn't my style but really love it on you. I think the length is fine.

Gorgeous on you and I love all the ways you styled it. Isn't it great to find something so perfect for your style?

Suz yes! You're brilliant and we should keep our eyes peeled.