...a glimpse inside my jumbled-drawer buyer's mind:
One of the "must" items on my shopping list for this fall was an outfit for my nephew's wedding (Thanksgiving weekend, afternoon ceremony/late afternoon-early evening reception).
I already knew I had no clothes that fit or were function-appropriate before I purged my closet, so I knew it was going to be an almost from scratch purchase (except for boots/shoes). I hoped to be able to use the outfit for future social outings, so decided on a midi/maxi skirt to maximize mixing and matching with different tops. The second goal was to do both top and bottom shopping in one shopping trip. Final goal was to get a nice piece with some longevity to its make.
Here's the shopping trip, and eventual outfit:
#1 and #2: LOVE this skirt! Regret not buying, in fact. Berry top is perfect color, but not flattering shape. Why do I always wear a lace bra with transverse seams to head to the store to buy knits, lol?
#3 and #4: Skirt is a very dark navy background. This is actually a very useful piece for Santa Fe, as it is subdued bohemian, and also a useful lighter weight jacquard, so 3-season wear. Turtleneck is too casual for a wedding, but good for lower key events? Also, I wear a lot of turtlenecks, so it could be useful. Outfit would need a belt, about 2" wide. Alpaca pullover: soft as a kitten, light as a feather, and hot as hell. Probably not a good choice for wearing in a crowded church and reception hall, lol. Length and shape are perfect for skirt, IMO, but something about the neckline bugs me.
#5 and #6: Color matching details of both tops with skirt.
While at the store, I also tried on 2 light-colored sage-gray pullovers didn't really work on me or the skirt.
Bought the skirt and the turtleneck. Proceeded to try on things at home. White blouse: By itself, no. With a denim jacket, yes, but not wedding-appropriate. Perfect for Santa Fe social events, however. Old pair of control-top footless tights offered a little smoothing. Finally #7: Chico's slinky knit rayon/acetate blend with bright brass (sorry, "goldtone") stud ornaments.
IMO Cons: Too long for the skirt; brass studs too shiny (I'm a silver gal); perhaps too summery; too staid and "age-appropriate".
IMO Pros: Perfect color of navy; I won't have to go last-minute stress-shopping for a top; already accessorized; light enough weight to self-moderate temps in a crowded venue; it will *work* for this event and I can keep searching for the ur-top--the top "matched in heaven" for this skirt; I'm an extended family member, so "no one will be looking at YOU, miss."
Other planned outfit elements: Ochre-gold pashmina scarf/shawl (ancient, not seen); Ash "Jeff" booties, black nubuck, 10 yrs old (seen in all pix). Either pearl studs or lapis drops, probably.
Need to buy: Control-top pantyhose in navy, a powerful minimizer bra with a moderate plunge (a gal can dream!) In other words, a quick trip to Dillards' lingerie department.
BTW: Will probably be returning the turtleneck--I do need turtlenecks for daily wear, and it is a good color, but.... Persuade me otherwise?
Alpaca pullover: On 24-hr hold at the moment. I do love kitten-soft, feather-light sweaters, and the color is faboo, but have a very sensitive thermostat post-meno, so need to be careful with the layering. Plus, it has a weird neckline.
Would love to hear your thoughts!