Presto Chango!

When it comes to clothing, I am not a good shopper. That could be because I find shopping so discouraging. I feel like there's very little out there for someone of my shape. More often than not, after trying on several things that really don't work, I'll settle for the item works best. Sometimes the item isn't particularly flattering, but if it covers all the important bits decently, I'll take it. 

My close-enough-is-good-enough approach is particularly apparent when it comes to second-hand items. This tank dress was one of those items. I was shopping on my lunch-hour, so I was pressed for time. I checked that the dress covered my bust, that the armholes didn't gape, and that my bra straps were concealed. Yes, yes and yes. Six dollars spent and I was out the door. 

Later I realized that I should have checked that my bust and my butt were covered. While the dress didn't look too short in the dressing room, as soon as I started to move I realized I was in trouble. 

At that point I was tempted to toss the dress in the donation bag and be grateful that the lesson only cost me six bucks. But I kinda liked the dress. I hung onto it and hoped that it would magically get longer in the closet.

Eventually the ol' light bulb went on. I added a hand-me-down jacket, a consignment-store belt and some leggings. Abra-cadabra! Presto-chango! My short dress was now a long tunic. Sadly, I didn't actually own the leggings, so I had to spend another $35 to get my bargain dress to work. Fortunately, I've found other things in my closet that work with the leggings. Somehow that seems to justify the expense. 

This is the outfit I wore for date night on Friday. Hubby and I walked down to our local pub for burgers and beers.  The pub is quite new. I'm rather liking having a drinking establishment within stumbling distance of our home.

Linking up with Patti and the rabble over at Not Dead Yet Style for Visible Monday. Go check out the inspiring, innovative and stylish women!