Yesterday while shopping at Nordstrom for skincare (taking advantage of triple points), I browsed through the clothing, keeping an eye out for sweaters or tops that look more current than some I've been wearing. I spotted an extra-long cardigan in charcoal gray to try on. Since I was trying that piece, I figured I might as well give the Vince Camuto tube skirt another go. (I think I had tried one on ages ago and just wasn't on board with the body-con fit across my hips.) This one had ruching, and these skirts have been such a hit here on YLF, I had to try it. I came home with both items!

Today I'm wearing the cardigan. Initially I wanted to mix patterns, and I put on the outfit in 6, with a reptile print cardigan and floral tee. I did not get out of the house in the outfit; I couldn't decide whether it coordinated or clashed. What do you think--yay or nay on the pattern mix?

Then it struck me: wear the new cardigan! I felt great in this outfit (photos 2-5). Wanting to wear my white bootcut jeans prompted me to reach for the floral tee, which is relegated mostly to sample-land: i.e., I use it as a sample to show my students when I'm teaching a t-shirt class or how to sew with knits. The new cardigan also made me feel fab in this near-orphan t-shirt. Who knew?

I even decided once I got home with the new cardi that I could discard the boyfriend cardigan in the same color (photos 7-8), which is several years old. It was a favorite for a couple of years, and lately I've felt it may be past its prime. It's not pilled or worn out, but it just seems a little tired or lackluster. What say you?

Oh, and I'm wearing some pumps that I love but that don't get much
wear--because I think of them as special-occasion shoes. Some recent post here inspired me to make more of an effort to wear my pumps.

It's amazing how an updated item can breathe fresh life into a look or a wardrobe, isn't it? I know this is what "refresh" means, relating to one's style or wardrobe, but to experience it makes the concept hit home.

The outfit (worn for a day off): white bootcut jeans (Lucky, Lolita); red, pink, yellow, and gray floral print tee (made by me); long charcoal cardigan (Halogen); black, gray, and silver metallic belt; black and burnished gold cap-toe pumps (Anyi Lu); black and brown reptile print cross-body bag (Aimee Kestenberg); silver rope half hoop earrings (Brighton); silver & black scarab design cuff bracelet (gift of DH, from Egypt).

Thanks for looking! I welcome your comments, ideas, and suggestions!