Back in Black

The moral of this story is: try, try again.
This top first caught my eye because of the criss-cross drape front design, but I nearly passed it by in part because it is black and in part because it was being worn by a mannequin who was also sporting a red tank and red skinny jeans. I was drawn in by the top, but I was pretty nervous about buying it, not just because I don't normally wear black, but because it was paired with the red, which is a color that I look awful in. When I brought it home (and realized I was stuck with it since the boutique I bought it from has a no returns policy) I tried pairing it with pants and a tank in the closest color I will ever get to red: fuchsia. It was way too bright and overwhelming for me though. Then I tried cobalt blue top and bottom and was a lot happier. I'm even happier toning it down even more with jeggings, and I plan to try it again with the fuchsia top and jeggings and a turquoise one if I can ever manage to buy one. (I've bought two so far this season and taken them both back because they were defective.)
The jeggings are Faded Glory purchased from Wal-mart. I tried on a lot of jeggings before I found these that I like--they come in petite so they aren't bunched at the ankles. I actually bought two sizes since I bought them online and sent back the ones that were skin tight even though they fit more like jeggings "should." I wanted more of a skinny jean look, but something without the button waist. Something flexible and durable that would go from mall to garden without a hitch.
It can be hard to work a new piece into your wardrobe, especially if it is different from what you normally wear, but don't get frustrated. Try it with several different things before you take it back or give it to Goodwill. If you don't get it exactly right the first time, it's no big deal. Not looking perfect now and then is not the end of the world.

I bought this pendant at a craft fair in WI, but hadn't worn it much until I suddenly had the right top for it to go with. Craft fairs can be great places to pick up unique statement pieces for reasonable prices. Plus, you are keeping a local craftsperson off the street!

The back of the top is lace to show off the pretty color underneath.

 

As a side note, this outfit got my husband's "you look nice" seal of approval, probably because it is not as baggy as my usual summer wear.