Hi Amy, I am with others on liking the "idea" of the red pants for you, if not the fit of this exact pair. I kind of like both jackets - maybe adding shoulder pads will be a good fix for the second one.

I am so sorry about your father's illness but glad to hear he is feeling better now. My father had acute leukemia and the one positive thought that stayed with me afterward was the feeling that during his illness he was treated and cared for in the best possible way. It sounds like your father is getting good care. Best wishes to him, to you and to your family!

I didn't read all the other replies yet, so as not to color my opinions. Let me say first that I am sorry to hear about your father!

The red pants don't look bad to me at all, just a little snug. Have you tried the next size up? I love the over-all look of those pants on you. If the next size is slightly big, you can always get them taken in a bit. I love the sweater you're wearing it with; is it from White House, Black Market? Jacket 1's sleeves are too long. You could probably fix this easily, or try them rolled up to the elbows. I like jacket 2; you look happier in it, too!

ETA: Regarding the pockets on the red pants: you can always sew them up (or have them sewed up) to prevent them from opening up if you're concerned about the line on your hips.

I'm late, but I just had to comment on how sexy you look in the first picture with those cropped pants and high heels! All you need is red lipstick and a cigarette and you'll look like you just walked off the set of Mad Men, lol! Those might not be *your* red pants, but keep looking! I forgot about the crotch alteration. My mom used to do that to a lot of her pants when I was little.

I was thinking about you yesterday when I was turning a dress into a top. Your sewing prowess (along with Steph's, JennyAnne's and others) has inspired me. I want to learn how to do alterations and upcycle (remake) clothing. Thank you for that!

I am sorry to hear about your Dad, but what a second chance you've been given! A few years ago we had a scare with my father too, and I remember how I wasn't ready to loose him yet! He's 82 now. I know you'll make every day with your DF count. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.