Monday, March 25, 2013

The Long and the Short of It.

Last summer, while visiting family, I discovered Maurices. I probably would have walked right past, but their mannequins caught my eye. For the first time in my experience I was seeing mannequins in different sizes. Yes, there was the typical stick-thin model, but there were curvy models too. Not only did I have to check out the store out as a result, I made sure I let the sales staff know how much I appreciated seeing mannequins of unusual (for retail) size. I think I might have scared them (the staff, not the mannequins) with my enthusiasm. 

In my excitement I made some less-than-smart purchases. Fortunately, Maurices has a pretty good return policy, so I didn't have any trouble taking  items back when reason kicked in. I did keep the dress you see in the picture. It's shorter than I'm used to, and it's far too low-cut to wear on its own, but the colours won me over. 



Last week I brought the dress out of the closet for the first time this season. Even though the sun was out, it was chilly. I figured with enough layers I'd be warm and decently covered. 

Wouldn't you know, the day I wear something that feels a little on the short side is the day that I end up crawling around on a public bathroom floor trying to help someone having a medical emergency. I don't think I flashed anyone, and I'm pretty sure all involved were too busy to notice if I did. Still, that incident will be in the back of my mind every time I consider wearing this dress. Heck, it's been in the back of my mind each time I've selected an outfit this week. (And at other times too if I'm being honest.) I tell ya, it gets more and more difficult to find clothing that suits me and is appropriate for all aspects of my job. 

Whine!

On a brighter note, I'm linking up with Patti and all the stylish women at Not Dead Yet Style for Visible Monday. Head on over and find inspiration for anything life throws at you! 


6 comments:

  1. I read your "new rule" about helping strangers, and I feel for you - I hope all turned out well. You look terrific in your Spring dress and it doesn't look short at all to my eyes. Thanks for sharing with Visible Monday!

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  2. Thank you Patti. I realize, after looking at the photos, that the dress feels shorter than it looks. It really helps to have that perspective. Another good reason for taking part in Visible Monday!

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  3. Hey Laurie, I think denim jackets over dresses are very cool. And, as far as the length, it's definitely not too long. I always have the hardest time determining my best length, and I agree that looking back at photos are very helpful.

    Have a great day.

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  4. I get that. I understand your frustration ... not like you need reward. Just a natural outgrowth of your caring during the emergency! Do you know how to reach the person you helped? Did they wind up in the hospital? Even though privacy is an issue, perhaps you could check with admitting in emergency. No names, just the outcome? They might just tell you.

    I'd be happy that while I was being a Good Samaritan, I was also looking so snappy, if I were you! Great dress, not to short and worn well for a transitional season.

    Seriously, New Rule here is a good idea. Hope you feel better.

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  5. Thanks Sue. I've been filling my closet with jackets lately. Funnily though, the denim one gets the most wear. Probably because I keep buying things in wild patterns, including jackets. Somehow I can't imagine pairing that dress with either of the plaid jackets I recently thrifted. Scored another one today on my lunch break. :)

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  6. Thank you Jan. I'm pretty sure I saw the woman today while out walking and thrifting on my lunch break. What a huge relief. And I picked up another plaid jacket for five bucks. All in all a very satisfying lunch break.

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