Some of my readers are no doubt visiting Savers or Value Village Stores today where there is 50% off on this national holiday in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.I found this heavy knit dress at one such sale in the depths of summer when no one was thinking about heavy things like this (I'll bet it weighs 3 pounds). Learning to shop off season, 6 months ahead or 6 months behind, is standard operating procedure for thrift shopping.
I've paired it with my Frye boots and the braided belt I wore with last Monday's knit successfully. But the color leaves something to be desired.
You'll see I tried to perk things up with one or two or three of the "nut" necklaces I lusted over to the point that Christina at Second Skin Style gave them to me. Even as I did so, I laughed. You see, I think of this as my "oatmeal" dress and when I'm served oatmeal at my mother's house, I have my choice of nuts, dried fruit, and maple syrup to add.
What would you add to this look? Or your oatmeal? And how might you be celebrating this national holiday?
Dress by French Creek Sheep & Wool Company,
66% cotton; 34% linen
This post is linked to Visible Monday. Join the gang at Not Dead Yet Style.
Also linked to Trending Through the Decades: Neutrals.
This post is linked to Visible Monday. Join the gang at Not Dead Yet Style.
Also linked to Trending Through the Decades: Neutrals.
I completely love this dress and want to own one just like it, Terri - I love the way it drapes over you so gracefully, with or without the belt. So simple and elegant.
ReplyDeleteI love nuts and raisins in my oatmeal, if anyone is taking a poll : >
Patti--I would send you this dress if it wasn't so danged heavy. I'll bet it would cost more to ship it than I paid for it. What kind of nuts?
DeleteUmmmm - any! But I like walnuts best.
DeleteI love both looks! The necklace looks amazing with the dress though.
ReplyDeleteI agree that the necklaces could have worked, although I don't think I ever came up with a great arrangement. I kept adding and taking away...
DeleteLovely look. I like it with the belt and the necklaces. It is so chic.
ReplyDeleteJulie
Julie--thank you. You're an expert on color, I would have expected a BRIGHT idea...
DeleteI think with the necklace the color works. I can imagine you wearing it with a more reddish necklace too - a richer brown.
ReplyDeleteYes, a redder color is in order! Didn't have it in my array of necklaces, sadly.
DeleteDarn it- I had no idea about the discount at Savers/ Valu Village. Next time!
ReplyDeleteDid you make it there today?
DeleteI really like this dress - it looks warm and comfortable.
ReplyDeleteAbout the oatmeal :) I have been eating it every single day for months. It's the only thing my stomach can tolerate in the morning. I eat Peaches and Cream Oatmeal because it's not too sweet. The brand that I buy is not available in the US. Quaker makes this flavor but it's not as good as the one I buy.
- Marie
Marie--oatmeal is important to one's cholesterol levels as we age. I've never tried it with peaches...although peaches grow local in my area. I should try this combination with fresh peaches in July.
DeleteI like the belted look. A bright scarf would add some punch.
ReplyDeleteI don't do the 50% off days at Value Village. But the day before one is the best time to shop. Everyone is waiting for the sale, so the selection is the best and not picked over. Half price of $7.99 isn't worth all of the pushing and shoving the shoppers in my town demonstrate.
Gloria
Gloria--I agree the look needs some sort of color. My scarf collection is pretty puny at this point.
DeleteI entirely understand about avoiding such places on sale days. I've been known to walk in the door, turn around and walk out. It's the closest I ever seen women actually wrestling over the merchandise!
I love the dress with the necklaces - they are so lovely!
ReplyDeleteKi--thank you!
DeleteRed accessories would work well,but I love the nuts!
ReplyDeleteha,I refer to the garage a lot lately due to having to have my entire wardrobe in there for 4 weeks or so during house repairs!(Post earthquake..s)I've moved most of it back into the house,but sure enough,I always want what must still be out there!
XXX
Red, of course. I have one very long scarf that might have worked...
DeleteOh, now I understand about the garage. Must have missed the post on the house repairs. Appears you had a lovely birthday.
I don't think I would add anything to the look, it's very earthy and I like the colors the way they are!
ReplyDelete♥ Leia
Leia--I like your word "earthy." It appeals to the old hippie in me. I worried a bit about you when I switched my comment method...and I'm ecstatic to see this comment from you.
Deletei love this oatmeal color. this is pretty much a blank canvas...you could add anything here. i think the boots are a given, but you might go subtle with maybe a yellow (banana) scarf, or orange would look nice with the browns.
ReplyDelete[oomph.]
Orange, perhaps. My skin color is so pasty (unlike yours) that I doubt I could pull off the yellow this time of year.
DeleteThat dress is perfection on you, my dear Terri.
ReplyDeleteDry cleaners a cheap in my home town, LOL.
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Sacramento--I wish the dry cleaners were inexpensive in my area. Because I live in a little town, the prices for it are very high. I try to do as much of it as possible at home.
DeleteYou can wear a neutral like that with any colour! Try it with a leopard print scarf, or some fab red accessories (or both!). Sarah xxx
ReplyDeleteoooh, a leopard scarf would have been excellent!
DeleteThe dress looks great on you, but then you have a lovely figure so the shape/fit is very flattering. I like it with the belt or the nuts! I worry that oatmeal (a much better word than beige!) is too draining on my pale skin tone, so I'd need more colour in the accessories, but it looks very elegant and stylish on you. Of course! xx
ReplyDeleteCurtise--I think the oatmeal is draining on my skin tone as well. I typically wear no makeup and the look needs some sort of color up close to the face.
DeleteI would think of that oatmeal / cream colour as a blank canvas against which you could put virtually any other colour. The dropped shoulders and the heavy fabric probably preclude adding much in the way of jackets or vests, but I would think you could pull out your wildest scarves, necklaces or belts. Cotton and linen doesn't suggest warmth to me, though. I'm guessing life in Kansas is much like Oklahoma, though. No matter how hot outside I always carried a jacket or sweater against the cold A/C and the same applied in winter - always wear layers you can peel off when someone cranks up the heat.
ReplyDeleteOf course we don't have MLK day here in England, but I always enjoy learning more about him when people blog about him on this day. However, another reading source today shared the postcard collection published in the book Without Sanctuary. It added a shocking layer to my understanding of a place and history that interests me in the context of my family history. An odd juxtaposition with Toad's (do you know Toad?) quote from MLK.
I think this would actually be plenty warm for a cold day, but you are correct about the bulk. It does eliminate elements I would typically try.
DeleteI don't know about Toad? Tell me, please!
To the Manner Born is Toad's blog. He loves men's fashion, all things English, the interwar period and he lives (I think) near St. Louis. Enjoy!
Deletehttp://to-the-manner-born.blogspot.com/
Shelley--I visited (and even followed) his blog. I love the quote and it is true.
DeleteThis is such a fabulous dress! I love it with the boots and belt and I (of course, being me) would add a great colored scarf!!
ReplyDeleteSan Antonio has one of the largest MLK marches in the country...though I am not going...I have a freelance assigment to interview a cowboy...since February is rodeo month here..so I am off to have coffee with a cowboy!!
Enjoy your holiday, Terri! Lovin the oatmeal...
Pam--there is consensus that I need a scarf!! An Interview with a cowboy...I could handle that!! Will you share or link this interview on your blog?
DeleteI've never been to, or lived anywhere that had, a Savers or Value Village, but I've heard of them a lot.
ReplyDeleteI'm celebrating today by trying to not be as ho hum as I was last week. Got a good start by doing my run and yoga this morning and already feel lighter on my feet! Now to let the boys sleep in a bit while I surf the web. :)
That sweater dress is great. I think I like the unbelted look best and love the "nut" add-in.
Sandra--Our college actually organizes a day of service, but the day always falls right before the start of the semester so I don't typically participate. Unbelted would definitely be the most comfortable of the looks.
DeleteNice looking dress, keep the belt! Otherwise it's got interesting sleeves and it's probably best not to over-do.
ReplyDeleteHow about a chunky bracelet?
I've got a new mystery and I'm going to enjoy the day with it.
Hm, a chunky bracelet would have been an interesting visual element. Happy reading, Rose. My new read is en route from Amazon.
Deleteeasiest way to liven this up is by adding a multi-colored silk scarf close to your face.
ReplyDeleteAnon--Yep, I'm needing that Hermes already...
DeleteLike some of the others have mentioned, I tend to view a dress in a neutral color as something of a blank canvas. I often wear a colorful necklace or scarf or some other bright accessory. I have to say that I do think the belted look is very chic. Sometimes it's just cool to go with all neutrals.
ReplyDeleteRaquelita--I've been seeing quite a lot of all neutral looks on many of the blogs I've been reading. It's slightly disconcerting after my year of trying so many different colors.
DeleteI honestly like both stylings. You've added rich browns; some shine and texture... There's nothing wrong with well-styled neutrals. It seems French-chic to me.
ReplyDeleteOh, Sarah, I love this "French-chic". I love hearing from you because my styling is usually sort of rough around the edges.
DeleteI am loving both styles! Beltless is very chic and easy but belted looks sophisticated and cool. The length makes this dress pretty special. You look fantastic!
ReplyDeleteJess--Yes, I had almost banished below the knee looks from my wardrobe last year and now all of the sudden, I'm thinking they are very 40's alluring.
DeleteAlthough both looks look great on you, I think I would combine both and wear the belt and the necklace. I am so envious that everything looks so effortless perfect on you.
ReplyDeleteDebbie--You MUST visit the Tumblr where there is clear evidence that not all my looks are perfect. Plus, upcoming, I have a stack of photos with far too much light...very blurry. That said, thank you.
DeleteOh what a great dress! I personally love the oatmeal colour, and would just add either a pair of red shoes, or red lipstick. Actually, the lipstick trick is what I often end up with neutrals: no matter how neutral a colour might be, bright lipstick always works for me! (Of course, that depends on whether one is a lipstick wearer in general.)
ReplyDeleteThe Waves--Red shoes would be grand! A sort of cordovan red, in a heeled oxford! As you probably remember, I am slightly lipstick shy.
Deletelove your dress and I didn't know it's 50% off today at VV! I gotta drop by there after work thanks for the heads up!
ReplyDeletePop Champagne--Hope there was something left for you when you arrived!
DeleteChic and elegant!
ReplyDeleteTamara--thank you. Now I'm off to see what you came up with this week!
DeleteThat is a great dress and from a very expensive company. I used to moon over their catalogs!
ReplyDeleteThe answer is a SCARF.
I had not known anything about the company, but when I spied it at Savers I was physically excited by it. I've been pondering this business of "branding," after your post brought it up. I may have to do a bit of investigation about the brand now.
Deleteit's a pretty dress and a lovely neutral color that can be worn with many accessories, as you did!, belts, necklaces or vests!, and I like how you wear it with rusty or tan colors, so elegant!
ReplyDeletebesos
Senora--there seems to be some agreement about a rusty red...
DeleteCan you dye it? though it's nice as it is too, I think you can pull that colour off (i can't!). I would add big flower brooches/corsages!
ReplyDeleteI probably could dye it...but I doubt I'll try that until I'm done wearing it in oatmeal. Might have to have a more accomplished dyer around to assist.
DeleteThe only thing I can come up with, is a broader belt. The one you have, is very ok as well.
ReplyDeleteAnd with the color of the dress, just about accessories of any color go.
Yes, a broader, but a good leather belt. I can see that too. Unfortunately this is the widest belt I own at the moment.
DeleteI have oatmeal with cinnamon and nuts, first choice pecans, second choice walnuts. I think of it as good tasting medicine.
ReplyDeleteAs to the dress, the fit is fabulous and it is great with the boots. Some type of scarf or shorter necklace - just something at the neckline would be nice.
Beryl--I am in hearty agreement with the cinnamon. Supposedly that is good for our hearts as well. And, absolutely, oatmeal IS medicine.
DeleteDid you bring me a Hermes from Paris?
Simple and elegant. It really is perfect, terri.
ReplyDeleteMe? I have to have some funk--POC! (pop of color)
Paula--Thank you and yes, I understand the need for funk. Without a dressing goal, I'm slipping back into neutral territory, aren't I?
DeleteI'm a big dip dyer - not always with excellent results - but it's harmless fun and I have a few pieces that have turned out to be my favorites after an all day bath in some Rit Dye. I'd dip it in either a mix of denim blue/royal blue with a little black added, or a deep purple with a little brown. Very neat dress!
ReplyDeleteOkay, Kitty. That's how I'll get you two to Paola. You visit and we'll dye this dress together. The royal blue sounds beautiful!
DeleteSimply repeating, so my response won't be detailed: splash of color needed!
ReplyDeleteI know, I know. I think I knew I needed the color even before I posted these photos!
DeleteThis is such a great dress on you! You wear cream very well - and you can totally wear it without another colour - I think it looks clean, minimalist and severe in quite a modern way.
ReplyDeleteV.--thank you. Without the help of my crew of stylists, this is actually how I would wear it out into the world.
DeleteThe brown is very lovely with the oatmeal dress. I think I would have worn both the necklace and the belt. As for color, a nice grass green would look good with it and be very unexpected. I would try that with a belt and shoes. Brights are on trend for spring this year so you could be a wee bit ahead of the curve! I think a deep rich cranberry would be lovely also; especially since I love cranberries in my edible oatmeal!
ReplyDeleteLove the boots! I have a boot obsession!
I found you via your comment on Oranges & Apples.
Welcome to Rags! You've been on my radar since you were in LV with Style Underdog last year. And of course, I should wear both. The grass green is a lovely idea. I too prefer cranberries to raisins in the cereal.
DeleteTerri, this look so amazing on you both ways....to be honest, I would wear it EXACTLY as you have. It's just so fabulous it doesn't need a lot of bells and whistles! hugs to you! ~Serene
ReplyDeleteSerene--thanks for the vote of confidence. A year ago I thought the lack of color was my style weakness; now I'm thinking I need more accessories.
DeleteYou're such a good shopper, but then you take those great buys and elevate them with your unerring sense of style. I love both outfits here and I have to agree that it works equally well with or without the belt.
ReplyDeleteMater--This dress was a lucky find, far better than my usual thrifting score.
DeleteI actually love my oatmeal with just a bit of maple syrup or brown sugar, so I really appreciate this look with the nut necklaces. I have a bit of a weakness for oatmeal as a neutral colour, although I'm not entirely convinced it works as well with my colouring as it does with yours.
ReplyDeleteThen again, I love the blue idea as well. :)
Perhaps my darker hair makes it easier to carry off. That blue idea is growing on me. Perhaps for next year...and everyone will think I have a NEW dress.
DeleteThis is SO what I'd wear. You look amazing...just so classy!
ReplyDeleteGracefully50--thank you!
DeleteYour dress is beautiful and fit you perfectly. I would wear it in a heart beat. Thanks for stopping by and linking up!
ReplyDeleteTammy--thank you for sponsoring this event! I always end up meeting new bloggers this way. And you look smashing in YOUR neutrals.
DeleteI think the oatmeal color looks good with your hair, and with your Frye boots. Great look for this important holiday!
ReplyDeleteJudith--thank you! I am sure Nelson could have opened my eyes further about the struggle.
DeleteI don't think the color leaves anything to be desired. That is an absolutely beautiful dress!
ReplyDelete-Meagan
www.spunkychateau.com
Meagan--thank you.
DeleteTerri, it's the Target on 39th St. in Independence. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the info. That's quite a haul from my location, but I may have to visit.
DeleteI dropped by again yesterday. Some things are discounted even further, but all coats are gone. As of yesterday, most winter scarves and gloves are 70% off. Much of the purse department was on clearance too. I got a regularly-priced $25 bag for $7 and a $30 one for $9, for example. Don't want to send you on a wild goose chase!
DeleteHeather--thanks for the status report. It would be the weekend before I could get there. Will anything be left?
DeleteGorgeous dress. I love that it's a relaxed look without completely covering up your figure or adding on bulk. The color is lovely too!
ReplyDeleteI totally forgot about all the holiday sales! Nuts!
Catie--thank you. There'll be more sales soon.
DeleteI think this whole look is simply gorgeous, and especially with the necklaces. The boots and belt anchor the outfit too... I would like to see it with all the accessories too; very very chic!
ReplyDeleteCarolyn--the dress was truly a find. I'm glad it's pleasing to your eye.
DeleteI love this look on you Terri, yet as I'm sure you can guess, I would add leopard-print tights and a mad green hat ... oh don't get me started ... xoxo
ReplyDeleteLeopard tights, of course!
DeleteGorgeous dress Terri , love the color, i would wear it a scarf or Izzy' s detachable colllar
ReplyDeleteLove oatmeal, i would eat with molasse and soy milk
Have a great day!
Ariane xxxx
Mmmm, molasses!
DeleteCould you do something with the reddish elephant from China? With the dress not the oatmeal . . . looking good with all the looks.
ReplyDeleteOf course, the elephant is red. I don't keep it with most of my jewelry...because I think of it as part of the elephant collection!! I need to shoot some photos in my study. That's a side of myself, my readers have never seen!
DeleteWhat a great idea for a holidy Ive never heard about that before. The dress is lovely and looks so comfy! I would be tempted to wear a bright jewel colour bag with it in emerald or ruby!
ReplyDeleteAmericans revere Martin Luther King, for non-violently leading our civil rights movement in the 1960s. Hm, the bags in my current collection are pretty hum-drum. May have to change that.
DeleteI love it with the necklace, not as much with the belt. I think it's a great color actually, but would put more bangles on your wrists, maybe bangles with color. It's fun thinking about how to dress you :).
ReplyDeleteI've spent the day in a first of semester meeting and judging from what others wore, the dress without the belt would have been perfectly appropriate and warm too. Susan, it's great to have so many stylists!
Deletegreat nut necklaces! they really add a unique touch to that awesome outfit. love the boots too!
ReplyDeletehttp://spinning-threads.blogspot.com
Claire--yes, the nut necklaces are really unusual. They are cross sections of nut and I cannot imagine how they were originally cut. But they are polished very smooth.
ReplyDeleteI'm with Patti ... I absolutely LOVE this dress! It's one of my favorites. I would wear that all winter long. and in the fall too! I love oatmeal, but with lots of butter and sugar :-) I celebrated MLK by ranting and raving at some lunatic friend on FB. We are no longer friends. He wasn;t the kind of friend that I wanted, but I wish my response to him had been more worthy of MLK.
ReplyDeleteI put butter on my oatmeal too! NO Milk. And, yes, its difficult to try to talk politics...especially with friends you may not have kept touch with for years. Our life experiences are often reflected in our politics.
DeleteThe great thing about beige is you can wear just about any color with it. Without the belt I also see it worn with a printed silk scarf. With beige also washing out face color, plenty of blusher and bright lipstick is sometimes needed - such as in my case. Pat
ReplyDeletePat--well I'm not much of a makeup wearer, so a scarf it is.
DeleteThe dress is great .i think a big scarf or a bright colored coat would make it look even greater.
ReplyDeleteLooks great, especially with the bold necklaces :)
ReplyDeleteAs for a different twist - maybe a brightly colored, long (fringed?) scarf
I'll have my oats with sugar and every once in a while a little cinnamon too :)
What a fabulous find - you look spectacular !!!
ReplyDeleteThis combination is just SO CLASSY.