April 16, 2013

I own two of the VC tube skirts. I haven't been able to wear them yet because I couldn't figure out how to get them to work with tights. But as the weather warms up, they are going to come into their own. I expect them to be workhorses for my wardrobe this spring and summer. One is cobalt and the other is navy.

I am wondering what kind of tops will look best with them, so I've tried a few things on so you can compare and help me out with ideas.

I do have some limitations when it comes to tops. In terms of figure flattery, I can't really do a wide V neck very successfully, or even a wide scoop (though I am showing one top like this which I quite like on me -- tell me if I am wrong). In terms of fabrication, most polyester tops are out in the summer. Natural fibres are pretty much required. I do not have air conditioning.

I would love your thoughts about which shapes work and any that do not. I'm playing with footwear options, as well, and have a few other options. But I feel easier in my mind about those.

I would especially love suggestions for ways to "finish" these outfits. To make them feel like outfits rather than just a skirt and top that I threw on without thinking about it, if you know what I mean! (Can you tell that I am lost without my jackets, scarves, or pullovers, and belts?)

Oh - I need a handbag, right? Okay...what colour (s)??

Apologies for the mussed hair, etc. And thank you for patience.

1. Cobalt skirt with Gap sweater -- this is a spring rather than high summer look in my climate.

2. Navy skirt with taupe linen sweater. This is also for warm spring, early summer, or early fall, because I need a camisole or tank underneath. In mid-summer, that's not happening.

3. Striped T -- just a normal cheap T from Urban Outfitters.

4. Blue T from BR a few years ago. Is this neckline okay on me? I tend to avoid wide open necklines like this one, but I love this T so much I wear it anyway. (Fabric is really great and cut is loose but shaped - so lovely for summer.) It is a bit dated, I think, and this is probably its last year.

5. Linen button down. Sorry for wrinkles -- it has just come out of its winter hiding place and I haven't pressed it yet. I have several button downs in different colours. This one is a sort of relaxed tailored fit. (Fits at shoulders and top but loose through trunk area.) Others are more tailored through the body. If it is passable, how do you make an outfit like this seem like an outfit?

6. The silk long-tailed Tee that Celia so sweetly sent me. This neckline okay? Am I overwhelmed or is it all right? (Not that I can get another of these anyway -- the retailer is no longer with us, alas - the late, lamented Cassis!)

7. J. Crew T and new baby wedge Cons, shamelessly copying Angie! Too ridiculous for a casual daytime look?

8/9. With denim jackets, since realistically, I will wear these shoes in spring and maybe summer evenings, not in the hottest days of our summer.

10. Orchid fitted cotton top from Mexx. Feels much more fitted than last year, which is partly a few lingering post-vacation pounds, but largely just a change in fit preferences. Realistically, I know I will not wear that belt in the summer. I didn't, last year. I have a couple of other fitted cotton tops from last summer. They were fine for wearing at home but did not feel particularly stylish and do not feel like "unstructured structure."

Thanks for looking and for your thoughts.

Posted in the Dressing category

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47 Comments

replied 11 years ago

The skirts look lovely! I look forward to more summer posts because I have no clue what I will do -- my problem is balancing no air conditioning and hot outside to my arctic air conditioning at work!
Day Vies replied 11 years ago
I love the cons with the skirts it looks cute and sassy with out looking juvenile! Excellent balance. I of course love the cobalt outfit. All of these outfits look casual and polished -- perfect for at home or a quick run to the store.
Sveta replied 11 years ago
First things first: I am not a fan of sneakers but I really love how they look on you, Suz. Actually I LOVE the whole outfit in #9!
Now to the question. I hear you - this is what I struggled with before for summer - how to make an outfit work without layering. From other looks you posted my favorites are #6, 5, 8. ##1 and 2 are nice too even though more for the spring than for the summer. I don't care that much about tee-shirt looks but #3 is fine (the saving grace of stripes). Sorry I don't really feel #4 at all, I understand the comfort of the tee but it does not cut it for your fab style IMO!:-(
#10 is nice but somehow too expected IYKWIM
I really like how SE sandals look. I found last summer that sometimes my nude caged wedge sandals or two-tone oxfords were enough to make an outfit. I think you SE ones have the same power, they instantly take the outfit onto the next level.
Suz replied 11 years ago
Sveta, thank you! I am honoured if you, as a non-sneaker lover, like the Cons!

And yes, I do have the Sam Edelman's. I ordered them a half size up and the fit was much better, so I kept those. I agree, they can elevate a look.

Love to hear what everyone is saying!
rachylou replied 11 years ago
I love this blue skirt and top. I saw it on the masonry layout and did an about turn :)

I know what you mean about skirt and top v. outfit. This happens to me. I don't know what makes the difference though.
hedgiehog replied 11 years ago

Ok, first of all, you rock those skirts! Your legs look so long and lean in them. I really like the way you've styled these outfits. To me, you look casual and cool. I like all the tops; most are a bit loose and unstructured and that look really suits you.
I think you're having a similar dilemma to me.....how to look put together when wearing less layers. I think the most valuable thing I learned was to use jewelry as finishing pieces. Maybe a funky necklace or a cuff bracelet. How about a lightweight scarf? As far as the shoes, I like all the sandals and the Cons. You could definitely sport that look during the day. My favourite look is #8.
Deborah replied 11 years ago
Suz, those skirts look fab. I love the line and slim fit of a tube skirt. I also prefer the unstructured tops with the skirt, I think primarily because they read as being more modern to me. And my goodness the Cons look fab. This is a look I am not sure I could carry off, but seriously you are rocking it.
Angie replied 11 years ago
Are we Baby Wedge Converse Twins, Suz? Wooohoooo! Aren't they AMAZING! I love mine.

Okay, back to fabulous you:

#1 - KILLER as is. Elegant and minimal.

#2 - a little more casual, but fabulous nonetheless. How about a big watch?

#3 - fun!

#4 - pass on the tee. Not the best neckline for gorgeous you. Too scooped.

#5 - perfect! Add your specs?

#6 - KILLER

#7 - super fun!

#8 - KILLER

#9 - KILLER to the power of KILLER. Very 2013!!

#10 - fabulous.
Angie replied 11 years ago
ps. I've been wearing these baby wedge sneaks with my body con frocks too.
replied 11 years ago
I love the Cons for you Suz! Can they be your one pair of shoes that aren't boots or sandals? These are great looks, Angie has spoken. I love the taupe tops (how sweet of Celia!). I can't tell about that neckline, but it looks like a nice rounded boat. The floral top with either denim jacket is really fun. Woot!

I know you are not a print (pattern) addict like I am, but I have come to the conclusion that if I am only wearing two pieces of clothing, I really need one of them to be a print in order to feel like I've created an outfit. I'm busy concentrating on this as I flesh out my S/S wardrobe. If I wear two solids I always feel like I'm grasping at straws to make them look related with accessories, and I'm not planning on wearing many of those this summer.
Suz replied 11 years ago
Whoot! Well, thank you, Angie. Yes, these are the mini-wedges. And we are triplets, because Celia got a pair, too. I found them at our Bay on sale on the weekend and this seemed like the right snazzy sneaker for me. Though my daughter, like Ingunn's, did wrinkle her nose and tell me I am not so young any more. Oh well.

Alas, too bad about the neckline on #4. I know. I can keep it for loungewear, though...it is so comfy and a gorgeous colour IRL.

I can wear specs inside but not outdoors due to sun. So I'll have to come up with an alternate accessory for the button down looks.

I am going in hunt of a big watch this summer. Or maybe two.

Deborah, thank you for your kind comments. I think you may also unconsciously understand what it is like to wear the more fitted tops in summer...not so pleasant in the heat!

Mary, if my legs look long and lean it is illusion, I assure you. Oh, and the 3 inch wedge on some of the shoes, LOL!

Thank you, Rachylou!

Claire, you hit the nail right on the head, as usual. You are SO right. And I am so attracted to plains, not patterns. But you've answered the problem right there. A print is the way to relate my shoes/ hair/ or handbag to the plain bottom and make the whole thing come together. Of course!! (Smacks hand to forehead.) Okay. Now I know. I am in search of printed tops. Somewhere. Oh please. Printed and yet with sophisticated shapes. This is a tall order.
Karie replied 11 years ago
I like them all, Suz! My favorite is #9, I just love the skirt with the Converse and the white jacket. Phooey about not being young anymore - I love the look and plan on copying it myself!

I also don't look good in v-necks or scoop neck tops. And I don't know what I'm going to do without my layering pieces - maybe invest in some summer scarves? Warmer weather will be here soon...I hope...
Dana replied 11 years ago
My absolute favorite is #1--gorgeous! I hope you love blue...it loves you! I also love #6; the neckline is quite lovely on you. I also really like #8. In my opinion, the blue denim jacket seems more effortless looking than the white one. (But that's just my opinion...nothing wrong with the white one by any means.) The cons are fun. I'd love to see a side view!
sarah replied 11 years ago
Suz, you look fabulous! Honestly, I used to worry about the "oversimplified summer outfit", too. But now I don't any more. I love simple! I do wear more bracelets and earrings (not necessarily at the same time) in summer, because they are cool and seem summery to me, but other than that...

Can you please explain to me who can and cannot wear a scoop neck tee? It looks fine to me, but you and Angie are seeing something I'm not.
deb replied 11 years ago
#1 and #9 are my most favorites and #2 and #4 my least favorites. The skirts look wonderful on you.
Joy replied 11 years ago

Suz, those skirts are amazing on you! So are your new cons
1. You don't need to add anything. The color is your "third piece".
2. I really like those colors together and your sandals. Maybe bracelet(s) that are more of a statement?
3. Sporty Suz. I could see your new cons with this outfit.
4. Sometimes a scoop neck is just the thing on a really hot day. How does this top look tucked or half tucked with a belt?
5. I like it as it is but you might add a white vest or bright or floral footwear.
6. Probably my favorite. If you wanted you could dress it up with dangly earrings.
7. 8. 9. So fab, especially 9. You have the print for extra interest.
10. You can't go wrong with fuschia! You could add colorful or larger bracelets.
Bags? With mostly plains maybe a great summer print clutch? Another choice would be white/cream to tie in with the cons
Suz replied 11 years ago
Thanks, Deb! It is helpful to hear the ones you like and don't!

Sarah, I am no expert, but as I understand it, the reasons that a scoop neck T of this width and depth is not my most flattering look include:

1. I am small busted, with a slightly though not severely bony chest. (I have seen worse, but let's just say it's not my best feature.)

2. I have a relatively long neck.

3. I wear my hair short.

4. I also have a long face.

5. Proportionately, my head is big and the space between neck and mid-breast is rather long. I'm also short waisted, so it looks perhaps even longer than it is.

The only reason I can get away with it at all, even remotely, is that I do have a fairly square shoulder line and the top doesn't collapse in on me as it might if I had a sloping shoulder.

I think scoops look best on women with a fuller bust, those with shorter necks, those who don't have long, angular faces that fight against the curve, if you know what I mean.

Dana, thank you for the specifics. Yes, I have a closet full of blue! Sometimes I get a bit tired of it...

Karie, do you think you'll be able to stand a scarf in summer? I would find even the light cotton ones crazy making, I think -- and yet I wear them all winter for warmth!
Caro in Oz replied 11 years ago
The skirts are fantastic. I LOVE #9 you look so fresh & modern.
These are interesting to me because they would be spring/autumn looks in my neck of the woods:)
My only suggestion is a cuff or bangle - I hadn't worn them much in the past but found them to be really great for hot days - much cooler than necklaces & more minimalist too.
Suz replied 11 years ago
Joy, you are a genius!! Thank you!!

Those are fantastic suggestions. A white vest. Any kind of light linen vest, really. And patterned footwear. Plus a bag.

Okay....now I know what to shop for!!

Thank you SO much for those ideas!!!
kellygirl replied 11 years ago
Wow! Do you rock a tube skirt or what?! I love all of these and especially the cobalt on cobalt and the skirt with Cons. SO fab. You have such a great sense of style, Suz! LOVE!
Suz replied 11 years ago
Caro, I know - you have to contend with much worse heat than I do. Which is one reason you are a heroine to me. I can barely manage what I do have to deal with. Actually, the tube skirts won't get worn on our hottest days (even though they are a sort of wicking fabric). They'll feel too constricting then, for sure. And I wouldn't wear the jackets in full summer, either. Except on a rare cooler evening. But in late May, early June, there will be some time to wear some of these.

I love the suggestion of larger or more prominent cuff. I am wearing a bracelet in some of the photos but it is not very obvious.

Kelly, thank you! You are the casual queen, so I feel good with your approval.
Transcona Shannon replied 11 years ago
Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous! All of it. Those skirts are going to be workhorses for you this summer Suz.
sarah replied 11 years ago
THANKS for the analysis, Suz. That sounds about right. I think I get confused for myself because I'm short-necked, large-chested, short-waisted and have short hair LOL! So, that means I fall right in the middle of being in the crew neck versus scoop neck category. Maybe that means I can wear both ; )
Jaime replied 11 years ago
You have gotten a lot of great feedback, but I will give it a go! You look fantastic in those skirts and the sneakers (together and apart). I really love both for your style. I understand your love for the blue tee but I think It is time to save it for lounge wear as you said. It is not so much the shape, but the edges are puckering and it is just wearing out I think. Not up to your polished standards. I love the asymmetrical blouse on you. Not sure about the shape of the last one with the belt - just less your style. Love the cobalt, and all the blues, as well as the green striped tee. Great look with the denim jackets and converse sneakers too. You are a great inspiration Suz!
Lantana replied 11 years ago

Suz, if I could afford it, I would have an array of sunglasses to complement my summer clothes. They would constitute the "third piece" when it's too hot for aught else.
krishnidoux replied 11 years ago
I like all interpretations , Suz, but my favourite has to be 7-9. So perky and attractive! Followed closely by 6, this is a very appealing shape. I am not a fan of the first one, because the monochromatic effect seems off with this silhouette. Although I love the sandals with the skirt.

It is funny about large v-necks, because strangely, I wear them well. And I have a longish neck, short hair, an oval face that can be long with the wrong cut/silhouette. But I am (a short) IT. My longer-than-normal long-waisted torso helps too. I am astonished that this by itself would make a difference, but apparently it does!
Karie replied 11 years ago
I like Caro's idea of a cuff or bangle - I have been doing that recently instead of necklaces - I have to wear an ID lanyard at work, so necklaces compete with that.
I hear you, Suz, about lightweight scarves possibly being too hot in summer. I was going to try it this year, but that is my concern - we'll see how it goes.
Raisin replied 11 years ago
Suz, those skirts look super comfy!

My favorite tops for styling and shaper are 1, 2, 3, and 10. I really love 1 and 2.

I'm not too good with the finishing touches myself. Can't think of much right now, but I like them in their simplistic glory!

Love the new cons on you, they work well with skirts!
Niefern replied 11 years ago
You look great, I particularly like #1, 6 and 10. It would have never occurred to me to pair converse with a pencil skirt, but it looks so good on you.
Ornella replied 11 years ago
*gasping for air*

I've only looked at the photos and planned to read later. No way. I'm blinded.

OMG!

9
!
!!
!!!

*plonk*

*heart palpitations*

lovE, loVE, lOVE, LOVE!!!
Debora replied 11 years ago

OMG, your style is off the charts! Love your sassy sneakers and I am especially drooling over #1, 6 and 9. Fabulous, Suz!
replied 11 years ago
I like all. I don't think the outfits look unfinished. My solution to the third piece conundrum is the chunky necklace or cuff.
Vicki replied 11 years ago
Suz, my favorites are 1, 6, 8 and 9 with high marks for 5 and many of the others.

It's interesting, because I love the Cons WITH the jacket best. Could it be the interesting layering? Celia's top was meant for you and the neckline works great.

I just love the way you have so many pieces that work well with your wardrobe items.
Suz replied 11 years ago
Thanks, Vicki! I think the denim jackets reinforce the casual vibe and make the ensemble feel more coherent. With shorts I probably won't need them.

Zap - thank you! Though I was thinking the oversize ones might drive you batty. But maybe the body con skirt helps a bit? I am on the hunt for more oversize cuffs. A chunky necklace is tough for me to wear, but I will give it another go.

Debora, you are too sweet. Thank you.

Ornella, you made me laugh!

Niefern, Lantana, Raisin, Krish - thank you!
RoseandJoan replied 11 years ago
These skirts looks sensational on you Suz.

Here's my opinion for all it's worth, which is based on experimenting with a similar grey skirt and will cost you not a penny. Experiment with the semi tuck, the blousoning creates interest when you are only wearing two pieces and subtly emphasises the waist whilst elongating the leg line. It is also very comfortable when wearing a knit pencil skirt.
Suz replied 11 years ago
Do you belt when you semi-tuck, Julie? These skirts have an elastic waist. I sort of folded the tees up for a faux semi tuck to try it -- to make it stay I would probably have to do a real semi-tuck. But I like this idea. Thank you.
Elizabeth P replied 11 years ago
I thought I'd commented on these FABULOUS outfits last night, but I guess not! My fav is the denim jacket with the converse... the jacket "bookends the casualness". Agree with others about accessories... you rock the simple look, but a chunky bangle would be great.

I'm also looking for these sneakers - local Footlocker said they might be getting them in soon!
Sara L. replied 11 years ago
All these are so great! You've done a fantastic job of putting together outfits with your tube skirts.

You already got a lot of great suggestions on how to finish off our outfits, but I just wanted to chime in that I like to wear necklaces and bracelets (or sometimes even cocktail rings) in the summer to make my outfits feel more complete. I don't wear large heavy necklaces that might feel hot but thin chains with interesting pendants. I also prefer wrap bracelets that are somewhat fitted so they don't move around too much on my arm but aren't tight enough to get sweaty.
RoseandJoan replied 11 years ago
No Suz I don't belt, the tops tend to stay put if a little fabric is tucked into the waistband.

I thought you were faux tucking in a couple of pics, I like how it breaks the horizontal line.

The cons are fab, as the kids would say 'I'm well jel'
texstyle replied 11 years ago
I esp. love 1,2,5,6 and 10. But the others are good too. I think it's just the cons that I have the poison eye toward. The scoop necks are tricky - I find them tricky too - to get just the right one I mean. I think you did really well with them here.

And that blue in #1 is just to die for - LOVE it on you!
CocoLion replied 11 years ago
Love #9 where the Cons and white denim jacket bookend each other.

I like all of these tops with the skirts Suz. The one with the high neck striped tee would work better with a more casual shoe to my eye, maybe something more chunky/funky as the top is RATE.

Overall, I think you've nailed these.

ETA - and I love both of the sandals shown in #1 and #2! Are #2 Sam Edelmans?
replied 11 years ago

No actually I like fitted bottoms with looser tops. What drives me a little batty ( sometimes) is the sizing up on a garment that was designed to fit tailored. It looks very odd to me, as if the person just lost a bunch of weight and it is still wearing their old size..
Suz replied 11 years ago
Ah, got it, Zap. And yes, I agree with you. It often does not work. If it doesn't fit in the shoulders, I get anxious! If I see shoulder fit, I relax.

Denise, thank you -- your words mean a lot to me!

Sandals in #1 are Sam Edelman "Sutton" and I love them. I had to order a half size up to the larger of my two shoe sizes, and I haven't had a chance to road test them yet, but they seem great so far. Did you keep the Trinas?

The sandals in #2 are from last year and they are actually a "comfort" sandal from Romika! Or maybe it was Reiker. I honestly can't remember -- I bought them at a local shoe store in a moment of desperation. They were absolute workhorse shoes last summer. And they are not in the least worn out. They're a great casual sandal.

You're right about #3 -- I need a less ladylike shoel there. Although the one I am wearing is actually a bit less retro-ladylike in person because it has a wooden wedge and the leather is a bit textured. Still, the outline is quite refined.

Thanks, Julie. You make sense!!

Tex, I hear you on the Cons. It is the first time I have ever worn them so it is an acquired taste thing for me, too! I can't wear the regular ones, but these have a wedge (which helps with comfort).

Thank you, Sara and Elizabeth!
Beth Ann replied 11 years ago
Dear Suz: It's the end of the semester, and I'm stuck in voice coaching and performance-rehearsing purgatory. Baah! So behind on forum fabness!

Now, I'm bowled over by these looks, so let me take a shortcut (just today, we'll skip to the coda). The only tops I don't like with the skirts are the tees in 3 and 4. Some posters (I'll be honest, I skimmed) seem to like 3, and I love the stripes, but I'm not wild on the sleeve shape and the more fitted, but not truly fitted silhouette.

LOVE the cons on you, and I also noticed (longingly) your sandals and cuff bracelet!
nancylee replied 11 years ago
I'm weighing in late here, Suz, but you look fabulous in every outfit. Love all the great advice...and I'm taking notes since I'm a VC midi tube skirt fan (and owner), too!

I'm going to prowl through my wardrobe this Friday with this post in hand to experiment with my own skirts.

Thanks for posting! :)
AJ replied 11 years ago
1 and 6 make me swoon! Quick pass the smelling salts!
pil replied 11 years ago

Wow, Suz! I am just now seeing this thread - color me "plonked" by #9 too! Cons are hit or miss for me, but this is a big fat home run!

Pix-Elated

What to wear with tube skirt...and new Cons!

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