Monday, January 20, 2020

Understated

When I wear female clothes, I tend to over-do it with super-bright colors, flashy styles, etc. The reason for that is simple -- I have decades of pent-up enthusiasm for female plumage. Plus, my natural instinct is to take everything to the extreme.

But what if I dress like a normal woman? In normal clothes, without hoopla?

I'm giving it a try. Here's a pretty Calvin Klein dress I bought at deep discount. The material is incredibly soft with the texture of suede. But, as textile-expert Sheila confirms, suede doesn't stretch and this material does. The color is equally hard to pin down: in some light, it looks beige but in other light, it's light pink. Whichever hue, I like it.

This is an outfit I could wear on many occasions. What do you think?









25 comments:

  1. As someone who tends to wear bright rainbow colours, I say there is nothing wrong with going brash. However, you look absolutely stunning in this simple look too. It is really flattering for you and I certainly think you will wear it on multiple occasions.

    Remember, it's about what you feel comfortable in that will look the best on you :)

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    1. Thank you. I'll still dress like a crazy person but wanted to try a walk on the mild side. :)

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  2. Oh, that is such a pretty dress, Ally. And I love how it suits you and hugs your curves. I can understand why you'd want to wear all the colors and fabrics and patterns and things! But I also think sometimes simplicity makes a beautiful statement too :) Speaking of which--last night Jennifer Aniston wore such a simple dress to the SAG awards which reminded me a bit of Pippa's dress (the one she wore to her sister's royal wedding). Did you see?!

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    1. Yes, I did and I agree. Thanks for the nice words.

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  3. This has classy written all over it. Reminds me of something Robin Wright would wear when she played Claire on House of Cards.

    It looks great on you and I can tell it makes you feel great too. Maybe you should bring this along the next time you come for a visit and we can go out to dinner again : )

    Stretch faux suede is very comfy to wear.

    Suzanne
    http://www.suzannecarillo.com

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    1. Yes, I agree with that cultural reference.

      I would be THRILLED to wear this out in public. It's comfortable and flattering in ways most clothes are not on me. As I wore it around the house, I was hoping for an occasion to wear it outside. Thanks for the fabulous idea!

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  4. I totally love the dress and you pair it nicely with the hose and heels. All dressed up and now you need someplace to go.

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  5. I see PINK!!! Pale, new-born pink! It fits you really well!!! Would look really cute with a little, white cropped (maybe furry) swing jacket!

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    1. Me, too. Good idea on the jacket. Thanks, Kezzie.

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  6. Swayed by the suede; faux or no! :-)

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  7. I think this is a look that is Classy Ally. Like you could wear it to a nice dinner out or a meeting where you're going to dominate.

    That said I've always loved Calvin Klein for fit and quality. Even down to their tees and underwear, but their solid dresses are one of the best. I wore them on more than one occasion to work in my older more formal offices.

    There's nothing wrong with exploring both a more restrained version of yourself AND playing the teenager with bold choices.

    I think it's sad when ladies I know bemoan their love of X or Y, and say "no no, not for ME, I'm too _____"

    I especially love how this dress fits you. It highlights your waist, creates curves and is the perfect length. That it also is softly (faux) sueded and it sparks joy - all the better.

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    1. What wonderful feedback! Thank you so much, Chica. You make me feel good and teach me a thing or two. You're the best!

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  8. Ha, I am far from a textile expert, but thank you for the shout-out.

    I LOVE this dress on you - the cut and style really suit you. The neckline is good on your shape, and the sleeves are set perfectly to show off your shoulders without you looking wide. The stretchy faux suede gives you hips! Curvalicious!

    I am not a fan of this colour, as it tends to disappear into my skin, but it's good on you. With a blazer, you'd be a high-powered executive in an office!

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    1. Thank you for the expert response, Sheila. I learn every time you critique my efforts. This was an experiment and I'm surprised it's a success.

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  9. Its a beautiful shade of pink that dress and I think you wear it beautifully.

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    1. Thank you, Lorena. Your opinion, like Sheila's, means so much to me 'cause I respect your fashion-talent.

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  10. What a gorgeous dress, Ally, and it looks utterly amazing on you! xxx

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  11. Very classy! That shade is really lovely.

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  12. That looks great on you. And it's a perfect day-to-night dress too!

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  13. You'd blend right in like that! Hug, Sara

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  14. so elegant! i would wear your outfit for any event not issues!

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  15. I think you look amazing in that outfit. It's really classy.

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  16. Such a gorgeous dress on you, Ally! You glimmer like rose gold - so pretty. Lighter pinks don't suit my complexion so I'm envious of how lovely it looks on you. :)

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