For the fifth day of the challenge, I chose the creamy mushrooms (#3).

[Challenge info and guidelines posted here.]

The stark yet soft simplicity of this photo is what draws me in most, the column of creamy white mushrooms enveloped by rusty brown leaves/needles. My first thought was to simply emulate that with a column of white and a brown topper but, really, I like these challenges best when used as catalyst to put together something I might not have otherwise. And that first outfit that came to mind sounded like something I'd do anyway (and will probably wear soon!). So after a little pondering I tweaked the components of the outfit to have the same sort of feel, white enveloped by brown, but with pieces I hadn't ever considered wearing together.

This car coat cardigan is a vintage piece from the late 60s/early 70s, and might be the wardrobe piece I've had the longest (15+ years). The nubby texture has an earthy feel, though certainly softer than pine needles. My column of white is less stark and less continuous than the inspiration photo -- the dress has an all-over print, and I'm using a little artistic license to count my pale skin and nude tall boots as "white". Combined, though, they feel just as soft and creamy. Added some textured nude hose in a pattern that feels vaguely mycological, and pinned my hair under to give it a mushroom cap shape. Finished with a matte mauvy-orange lipstick, little gold spike studs, and the leo clutch because that seemed to be the order of the week Extra heavy mascara and retro sunnies to play into the mod vibe, just for fun. (And of course the soft gold nails, shown yesterday.)

Really happy with how it turned out (and although it photographed OK, this outfit feels prettier in person). Probably a little softer than proper mod but that feels more me anyway. Also tickled that this little hair-do which I enjoyed wearing over summer works with my new cut; hadn't done it asymmetrical like this before but love how it looks.

Comments, critiques, thoughts and questions welcome!