A Study in Contrasts
(Lots of contrast going on here.)
This is one of the outfit posts that I almost didn’t share. I wore this outfit last weekend to run errands and eat lunch at my favorite Chinese restaurant. It’s a remix of this outfit, and I wanted something more casual and less dressy, so I added the chambray shirt. I know denim shirts are always classic, but they will forever feel like a throwback for me, since I wore them a lot in the 90s, usually paired with a long, floral skirt and chunky sandals. In a way, I’m definitely channeling an earlier time, I think.
So there’s the contrast of the denim with the brocade pants, the juxtaposition of the bricks against the bushes, and then there’s my hair. I’m in the early stages of growing out my grey hair, and it’s obviously beginning to show. I’m going out on a limb when I say it’s more noticeable in pictures than in real life (at least to me), and I’ll admit that I still cringe a little when I see those greys poking through. But I’m stubborn, and I’m doing this, so here we go.
Saturday, when I wore this outfit, I felt pretty and put-together in a casual way. And then I looked at these pictures and felt really dowdy. I guess that happens sometimes, and not every outfit is a major win, which is okay. I think, as my hair continues to lighten, I’ll need to choose darker colors, maybe jewel tones, to add contrast and interest, and I’m finding myself drawn to more modern, structural pieces these days. I think that chambray shirt is a little too “suburban mom” for my taste.
Lesson learned.
I understand the done-this-trend-before, can’t-do-it-again mindset. That’s why I refuse to wear leggings — they remind me too much of the ’90s and how we all used to wear them with oversized tied T-shirts. If you’re uncomfortable, maybe the chambray should be retired. Personally, I think maybe it’s just a tad too big on you? Like maybe tucking it in or belting it would help, or even taking it to a tailor to get it taken in a smidge.
Yeah, it’s definitely an odd fit. I think it will be an at-home piece from now on, maybe to layer when I get cold. 😛
I actually super loved the simplicity of this outfit!! chambray shirts are always a win for me & i love them mixed w/ those fun pants. it’s a nice contrast that’s not to contrast-y. where are the slacks from btw? i’m always hoping to thrift some fun comfy patterned ones lately since they’ll all the trend but haven’t had luck and keep debating over making the investment into some pricier fair trade ones. also, happy spring!! i’ve been thinking of you these past few days since my hubs is here for a few days and I’m sending a suitcase back with him to Austin until I move in a few weeks – eek! hope your little family all had a wonderful easter!
Hi, Dus! Thanks so much for your sweet words. I like the patterns, but I don’t think the shirt was the best cut for me, so I ended up sending it to ThredUp. The pants are an old purchase from Anthropologie. I hope you are doing well and best of luck with your classes and the move!