You look gorgeous in this. I like both with and without belt, a slight preference for no belt but it’s close enough that I hope you might still wear the belt sometimes? Eye makeup and lipstick look perfect.

Sharan, thank you so dearly! I love all the sans belt feedback I'm getting. I belted (and over belted) everything for years. So not needing a belt feels so freeing. I do love wearing that cocoon! Will definitely have to do a darker or more natural version for expanded use. I'm almost wondering about a very deep, extremely warm green... I cannot wait to see your cocoon!! What color is your fabric? I hope you post about it.

Cookie, the pattern comes with a crew-neck version. But I feel the lace is simple enough to modify further into a scoop or v neck! It also comes with a more traditional sleeve option. Lots of options!

Jenni, I will likely wear it again with a belt some day or when the mood suit. I haven't entirely given up on belts. I think I'm just enjoying a "palate cleanser" of sorts after belting things for 10-15 years or more. I still think the belt adds a lot. But I also realize there are times when belting a top or dress actually doesn't add that much and is almost distracting. So that's been an interesting observation!