After being totally drenched while sitting on the sidelines at my son’s lacrosse game yesterday, today I’m planning on spending the entire day inside, staying cozy by the fire, reading my book and watching Downton Abbey.
I may never even change out of my jammies!
But, since you don’t want to see that- I am showing you what I will wear- if I have to leave the house!
I’ve talked about dressing in all one color to make you look taller and thinner, but this outfit on the right does nothing for me. Here’s why:
1. The fit of the pants is not flattering. They are a loose fit and cargo style- meaning there are pockets on the thigh which is adding bulk to my legs. In a skinny cut, the pockets work, but in this style- you can’t tell the shape of my legs- they just look big all over.
2. While I love all one color outfits- this plain black top and bottom with the neutral (and shrunken) cardigan is just too plain. Also, because the sweater is so small and you see a solid mass of black- it actually makes me look a bit large in the tummy/ hips.
3. I say this a lot, but there is nothing interesting in this look. Nothing to make you think, ‘oh, that’s cute’.
(Let me just tell you that my husband looked at the before picture and commented ‘oh my gosh that’s awful- you didn’t really wear that, did you?’) I want you to know I never actually wear the before pictures- they are purely for comparison. (That being said, a year ago- yes, I used to dress like the before pictures!).
On the left is my re-worked outfit. While I am not in the exact same color from head to toe- I am wearing dark/ similar colors, so it still has the illusion of one long vertical line.
Instead of loose fit cargos, I’ve opted for skinny jeans in a dark wash. I’ve said this over and over again, but I really believe that almost anyone can wear skinny jeans (or slim leg). As long as you pair it with something bigger on top you will create the illusion that your legs are thin.
As for my top, instead of a plain t shirt, I have on this wonderful purple top. It has a lovely draped neckline, and then also has ruching at the sides- giving the top enough movement for you not know what is me- and what is the top.
I’ve then added this fun long cardigan. It’s got these wonderful ruffles cascading down the sides and back- giving it lots of interest.
Finally, I’ve added a necklace and my boots to complete the look.
So remember, just because you are dressing in all (or close to) all one color- it does not mean you have to be boring.
Jeans: Anthropologie, Sweater: Anthropologie, Shirt: Nordstrom, Boots: DSW, Necklace: H&M
Everyday Mom Style 
I love your blog and think your suggestions are great! I did notice on this outfit that the blouse & sweater look a little busy together. There is a lot going on with all of the drapes & ruffles. I can’t tell by the pictures but it may actually add the illusion of a pouch around the tummy. I might wear a simplier blouse with the sweater and let the necklace add the sparkle
I see what you are talking about… yikes! I’m hoping that it’s just a bad photo! Good point though, thanks for writing!
The other day you asked what was on our spring shopping list and I’ve been thinking about that! I’m going to get some above-the-knee to mid-thigh casual skirts (no minis for me!) and cropped skinny jeans for spring. Have a great day!
Great ideas! Thanks for sharing you spring wishes, now if only the weather would cooperate!
Love this look/outfit! So frilly, cute & comfy. It’s great you have your old stuff to show what you would be wearing if you hadn’t rethinked things. We all have the cargos, kahakis, etc in our closets! This all reminds me that it’s time to get rid of them! 🙂
I really appreciated the side by side “why the one on the right doesnt work” comparison (its the reason I keep a full length mirror where I HAVE to see it….hope to catch myself looking frumpy!)