Fantastic! I think tops like that work best when they have a nice scoop neck that shows off the collar bones and they come to the elbow but no lower--yours is perfect and looks perfect! Such a gorgeous look, Shannon. You are really bringing it every. single. day. My hat is off to you.

Shannon,
This absolutely gorgeous on you! I really love the restrained color palette combined with the strong and dramatic silhouette of the top and skirt. Even the sandals are simple but dramatic. Outstanding outfit!!

So sweet that this is a special gift from your son! I think you look great and I hope my relationship with my kid is as sweet as yours is with DS when she gets to be his age!

This is really and truly an amazing outfit! Beautiful blouse and such a nice gift, too!

Love the blouse (missed the red pants post!), and it looks great with the skirt. Winners can do no wrong in my book. Like I mentioned in another thread, I can't leave that place without something I love!!!

Oh Shannon this is so fab I can hardly catch my breath! Your style transformation is so encouraging. It always makes me think I can yank myself up by my bootstraps and figure it out for myself too. Someday! You have boldly experimented and let us see your misses as well as your hits. It's really helpful.

Okay, my thoughts on this outfit. I think the top is bang on. What Jonesy said about your exposed collar bones and the length of the sleeves makes so much sense. This is just the right amount of volume on you and it says *drama* to me. LOVE it! The banded waist is definitely your friend. No fussing necessary. Perfect with the pencil skirt and I love the modern necklace with your retro touches. A large cuff would be fab if you want to change it up. Your shoes always look so good on you! You have a real talent for picking out a cool, chunky shoe that is current. And finally, that FABULOUS bag! I really, really, really like it. The more *in your face* vintage your bags are, the more I love them on you. You have exceptional style Shannon, and you deserve exceptional bags! Thank you for treating us to this gorgeous outfit!

WOW - let me say I'm rather overwhelmed with all of your positive comments. Thank you.

My lesson here is that volume CAN work on a petite apple as long as it's the right amount of volume coupled with structure to reign it in.