Beth Ann -- I think you're right. This is like math use it or lose it!
It has been easier (in my mind) to use 1 bottom as a starting point, add 6 tops and another bottom. This is where the thinking ends Baby steps. With outfit creation I will forever stop at fit and proportion. While a top or bottom may fit well in isolation the silhouette they create together may not always work for me. So I am sure until I have a mental catalog of silhouettes I'll be setting aside time to see how top x works with bottom y unless its a dress