I ordered a skirt online, as I do often with my clothes shopping, simply because there is more selection and I can find better deals. But there is a downside to online shopping too - you can't always be sure whether you'll like the item "in person". There is always a chance that the fabric is not quite what you expected, or the fit is wrong, or the color looks different in reality. So when the skirt I ordered arrived at my local store, I knew it might not be what I envisioned - and it was not. The fit was not ideal on me, and the fabric seemed too thin for the style. Then I decided to not simply return it (which is always an option in our stores), but exchange it for a skirt that caught my eye earlier, but for whatever reason I was hesitant to buy it. I tried the other skirt on, and...
Ta-da! It is quickly becoming one of my most favorite skirts ever. If you're in the market for skirts and you're plus sized, like me, do look into circle skirts - they seem to be everywhere these days! I found mine at Lane Bryant (available in 4 colors online, and you might find an additional color, yellow, in your local store). The fabric is ponte knit, it is thick and holds its shape well. It is very well made, stretchy waist (read: comfort) and it goes with practically everything. I loved it so much, I ended up ordering it in two more colors. When you use a coupon or promotion, you can get it for as low as $30. Eloquii is another plus size company that offers ponte fabric circle skirts in a wide range of colors - check their site out as their skirts are on sale now.
I am wearing some of my most beloved jewelry here too - pearl earrings (a gift from a friend) and mother of pearl (gifts from Justin), made by a local jeweler in Gig Harbor where, coincidentally, these photos were taken.
And who knew my thrifted shirt, one of a few shirts I found at Value Village earlier this year, $5 each, would make such a striking combination with the new skirt.
We went to see a play that evening, and when we thanked the actors after the performance (which is customary to do in small theaters around here), my outfit was noticed and complimented by the star of the show (a wonderful opera voice she has). It made me happy. My thinking is this. The actors put so much effort into their performance, that it only feels right to dress up to show my respect and appreciation. They show me their art - and I show them mine. We both are artists, we get each other.
Skirt - Lane Bryant
Shirt - thrifted Ralph Lauren
Shoes - Born
Jewelry and purse - old and beloved
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That skirt was made in heaven for you, my beautiful Natalia.
ReplyDeleteMil besos
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I hesitate to buy something on-line. I tried a few times and it was quite disaster. o) As I am not coat-hanger, it is difficult to guess if I´ll look so great as the model on the picture (almost never I look so good). But you are right, that you can find wider offer on internet for plus size. I should try this "adventure" sometimes again.o)
ReplyDeleteThe skirt you choose is amazing. I like A-cut and that the length is under knee. But combination with this colorful shirt make your outfit so great. I would love to see how you will style this skirt with something else too...
Look for places that have an easy return policy, Anna. It's not worth it if you have to pay for shipping if the item doesn't work for you. ASOS is super easy and free shipping both ways.
DeleteA lovely outfit, Natalia. No wonder the star of the show complimented you. I love the blouse and the skirt is a perfect fit. xxx
ReplyDeleteA beautiful outfit. I think ponte knit is perfect for skirts and dresses as it's a bit thicker and holds its shape. It's great for more tailored clothes, too, for ease of movement.
ReplyDeleteThe perfect skirt, so often so difficult to find , is a definate winner combined with that gorgeous blouse . I love the idea of thanking the performers , something that doesn't happen here. You are quite the star with the harbour background . xx
ReplyDeleteIt is a fine tradition here - the actors go out to meet and greet the viewers, so you can take photos with the actors (in costumes and everything), ask questions, and thank them. I often want to hug them all, but I am too shy. :)
DeleteI love the blouse because it reminds me of the curtains at my great aunt's house! (which was like my second home when I was a kid, so being reminded of it is nice :) )
ReplyDeleteCute :)
DeleteAmazing skirt Natalia. I love that you've combined with this stunning blouse. You look great and I see that the weather is fine?! No heat ;)
ReplyDeleteXoxo Tina
On hot days (80 F and up for me) I stay under the AC and write or go to the beach and swim - not much clothes required either way! :)
Deletea half circle skirt is the most flattering skirt styles for any woman!
ReplyDelete(says the old fashion horse that thinks that this skirt is less than a half circle by looking at the pics....)
great color for you and with the blouse and the blue shoes its an fab ensemble!!! what are the other colors you bought?
for dressing up i´m like you - it´s a sign of respect that we do not go in our everyday clothes to an event like theater, even a party host should get this little bit of wordless esteem.
tons of hugs for you my beautiful friend! xxxxxxx
Purple and black. I loved the mustard yellow, but I already have a similar skirt in golden harvest yellow.
DeleteYes, that is art that you wore, and I am glad your fellow artists saw that. Love the story of the skirt, and as well as the skirt itself ! Love the thrifted blouse, and bargain, shoes: it takes your style to turn this into a fashion forward look, colorful, and as quince as you. Definitely worthy of the praise! Hope you family is well.!
ReplyDeletexx, Elle
http://mydailycostume.com
You are so darn cute Natalia....and can I say, I love love love love love love love the blouse most of all!!! Of course the skirt was an excellent addition to your wardrobe but that blouse is just wowsa!
ReplyDeleteBack to school time soon isn't it? I was walking through down town this morning and saw in the window of a Brooks Brothers shop a display and mannequin wearing a plaid jumper and another wearing a plaid skirt. I don't know what it was about the red plaid but I instantly had a feeling of nostalgia so strong I could nearly relive it right there at that moment. Memories are such wonderful things.
Hope you're enjoying your last days of summer. We are off on an Olympic Peninsula road trip and I'll post again shortly after that. Miss you!
I do love online shopping too but you are right you never know what you are going to get! I do love this skirt you are wearing! It looks awesome with that patterned top!
ReplyDeleteRebecca
www.winnipegstyle.ca
One of the main issues for me too buying on line is not being able to feel the material and it's quality and quite often I've been disappointed when an item has arrived. However, the upside is that sometimes, as with your lovely red skirt, you hit a winner and that's what makes it worth it. The fit is so flattering on you and the print of the shirt is fabulous. Love the part where you wrote about artists acknowledging each other. I feel completely the same way. I was out last night for dinner and they had a jazz duo playing. On leaving when there was a break between songs I said to the singer how much I'd enjoyed her singing and the the look on her face was worth it's weight in gold. She was so appreciative that someone had made the effort to thank her.
ReplyDeletesuch a gorgeous skirt!!, love the color (it's great that you bought it too in purple, fab color!) and love the shape!, circle skirts have that swooshing factor and ponte knit is a very nice fabric.
ReplyDeleteAlso love how your shirt enhance the red color of the skirt, such a fabulous ensemble!! obviously, you had some compliments!!
besos
You look amazing in most colours, Natalia, but I think there is something particularly striking about red. Along with the print of the shirt, you look so vibrant and colourful, I love it! Finding a good skirt, with the right shape, fit and fabric, is a real bonus, you can pair it with so many different tops and shoes for a variety of outfits.
ReplyDeleteFantastic backdrop too, of course, the photo of you leaning on the railing gazing at the boats is fantastic. xxx
Wonderful look! I love the top and how it goes with the skirt. Cool you decided to get the skirt. All is matching perfectly.
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