Working It Out
Well, once again use femme must concede the point to the photographic evidence. It’s time to add this Ella Moss tunic sweater to the Donate Pile. I love it, but it’s time to let it go; it’s just too big on me, and looks a bit stretched out. I hope I can find something similar in the future, as I’ve worn this piece like crazy this winter!
Silk tee (black) and skirt (Graphite): Eileen Fisher, here and here.
Sweater: Ella Moss (no longer available)
Tights: Nordstrom brand, Grey Flannel
Booties: yep, it’s them again.
Cuff: Hermès, “Collier de Chien” purchased from Beladora2.
Scarf: Hermès, “École Portugaise d’Art Equestre“
I’ll add this scarf tie to my next video, but it’s a great one if you don’t want a lot of fabric in contact with your skin. Which applies to me right now, as the skin on my neck seems to have reacted to the retinol in the Roc night cream I’ve been using the last few weeks, and is now itchy, rough, red and determined to look about 89 years old just to spite me. Never thought I was the “sensitive skin” type, but my skin thinks otherwise.
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If you love the tunic, why not take it in (or have it taken in) instead of chucking it? Just a thought.
I so want that cuff.
It’s so true though, since blogging I’ve weeded out a few things that just didn’t do anything for me, it’s so good to see a photograph of something on, step back and re evaluate.
My cherest Pseu,
You’ve got great legs. Love the scarf tie — you’ll have to show me how to do it in June and the cuff, I’m with Tabitha.
Yes, cherie, let it go. No regrets.
Tic-tic-tic.
xo,
Tish
P.S.: I thought we had a deal. You’re supposed to tell me when you’re doing your scarf videos.
What are you doing for the redness on your neck, svp?
I really hate it when a well-loved part of the wardrobe bites the dust. I wish you well in finding a great replacement. And I agree with coffeeaddict about the pockets.
It will be like saying goodbye to an old friend…bit it is time…you have great legs BTW!
I’ve had exactly the same problem with the Roc on my neck…try just using it on your face and use a regular night cream (without the Retinol)on your neck. For some reason it irritates the neck skin….not a good look! Also check out Karen Klopp’s what2wearwhere…they did a post yesterday on spring coats including one for travel.
I agree — the tunic has got to go!
If Retinol is irritating on the neck, I’d figure it can’t be very kind for my face either! So I won’t be trying that product, thanks for the head’s up.
I am NO fashion maven, believe me—but to me, the tunic and short skirt don’t go together. Perhaps would like it better if the tights were totally opaque. On my screen, they look sheer. Is that an anomaly?
If the tunic is truly stretched out, goodwill it. If it is just too large, consider having it taken in.
Nooo, I like the Ella Moss tunic – can’t you belt it?
Those are great proportions on you–at least the tunic had a full life.
I can see why this tunic was a frequent friend! It’s difficult to let go of a piece that’s versatile and fun.
This is a great style for you, but next time maybe try one without the pockets. They are the reason the tunic is streched out and saggy.
I always keep the pockets on my blazers seamed, that way I don’t put my hands or car keys in there and consequently the jacket doesn’t sag.
Look at how pretty your legs are.
I agree about the tunic. It’s had a good life.
Having said that, I love the silhouette of a black knit dress under a tunic like that.
My neck is making me insane as well, for the same reason. I started the lowest dosage of Retin A four weeks ago, and just this week started to itch in the neck. I’ve never made it to four weeks on Retin A before due to irritation, but my face is doing really well with it, thanks to the No-Nonsense Beauty Blog (I think that’s what it’s called … ?) in your links. Deb wrote some “Retin A Road Rules,” which I’ve followed to the letter, and it’s been fantastic. I would imagine that if you followed her advice with your ROC retinol, it might help. I’m doing Retin A on my neck every other night, and Aquafor on my “off” night. It does help, somewhat ….
Love love love the booties. As for the sweater tunic, it’s so lovely. I can imagine it being a favorite piece forever. How will you part with it? (I have a dreadful time letting go of clothes I’ve worn and loved, even when they no longer fit (too big or too small) – and yes – that’s problematic for the placard for sure.)
Hello Femme!
Seeing this outfit one thing comes to my mind: this needs a loose shawl, preferable some lightweight cotton, something with a tendance relaxée!
In bold colour/s.
The tied scarf looks just too uptight/tied, combined with the tunic, tights and shirt.
PS: thank you! 🙂
Isn’t it so sad, and yet so rewarding, when the time comes to retire a loyal servant:)?
ParisGrrl – that thought had crossed my mind, but honestly I don’t think it’s still in good enough shape to warrant the cost.
Tabitha – the cuff is definitely a fave! 🙂 Photos are helping me to be more merciless with weeding out, for certain.
Jane W – I don’t feel bad about letting it go at this point. I would’ve liked to have maybe squeezed a second season out of it, based on what I paid, but it was worn plenty, and doesn’t feel like a waste.
Tish – Merci beaucoup. I’ll show you any and every scarf tie you like in June! (I haven’t done any new videos, still need to teach myself the Mac software. Don’t worry, you’ll be the first to know! )
coffeeaddict – truthfully, the pockets were a detail that drew me to the piece initially. I never actually put anything in them but love the interest from the ruching. I agree about keeping pockets stitched shut on more tailored pieces.
downthegardenpath – I’ve stopped using the retinol product on my neck and switched back to a “no frills” moisturizer and mineral sunscreen. Seems to be helping!
LuxeBytes – oh, you are too kind! yes, I love this silhouette too, and will probably find some other ways to recreate it. Yes, my face is doing GREAT with the retinol, just not the neck. I’ll check out Deborah’s guidelines.
thevintagetraveler – thanks! I’ll keep in mind about the pockets too.
hostess – thanks, and yes it IS time. Thank you for your kind compliment!
Paula – thank you! Yes, I wanted to wear something a bit looser, but was afraid that my scarves with more texture/weave would further irritate the neck. In the future, I’d do exactly what you suggest.
Caren – yes, thank you. That’s what I’ve been doing the last couple days and it seems to be getting better. Great website, thanks for the recommendation!
WendyB – it’s looking kind of sad, isn’t it?
Northmoon – actually my face has tolerated it quite well, go figure. But I think anyone whose skin tends toward sensitivity might want to avoid, or apply sparingly and with caution.
Susan – the tights probably look a bit more opaque IRL than in the picture. I think it’s too far gone to have it taken it.
That’s Not My Age – I really don’t do well with belts, as I have a short, thick waist. It would just add more bulk to my middle, I think. But I’m hoping that come fall I’ll be able to find something similar.
The Style Crone – thank you! Yes, I’ve been deliberating for the last couple weeks, but the photo confirmed that my instincts were correct.
Kalee – it really is a great piece, and now that I know it worked so well, I’ll know what to look for next time. I hadn’t planned to try to sell it as I think it’s just too worn out, but if anyone is interested, let me know and I’ll happily send it along.
Big Little Wolf – thanks, these booties are among my Top 5 Shoes. I think if the fabric had been a bit sturdier, I might’ve tried to resurrect it, but it’s just looking too bedraggled now.
LPC – yes, it is both. I got a lot of wear out of this sweater, so don’t have that sense of having wasted my money.
Dear Pseu, remember that the camera angle on the shots you take of yourself is most unflattering (I’m comparing with the other photos of you.
Secondly, you have lovely legs and I don’t see why you don’t wear more skirts. Sometimes your trouser outfits look a bit severe, albeit elegant. Nowadays one can wear skirts with opaque tights or leggings – I certainly do the latter on my bicycle – so it is not a matter of limiting one’s mobility or always wearing sheer stockings that will ladder after a day.
I like the idea of this look, and the tunic has certainly served you well, but yes it’s too big now.
Which is disappointing because it really is a great tunic. Will you be listing it on the other blog?
I think you are doing right thing. It is too big for you – you can get something else fab instead! xx
Nice outfit! Great gams. I love the layering of the tunic and skirt – in my view, draws attention to the legs…and that’s a good thing.
lagatta – thanks! I do like wearing skirts during the cooler months when I can pair with tights or leggings, but may find it more challenging during warmer months as I don’t like going barelegged (unless it’s a weekend and am wearing sandals).
Make Do Style – thanks! I’m learning that there’s always something else fantastic out there, no need to hold on to items past their prime.
L’age moyen – thanks so much! I really like these proportions too…they lengthen my *very* short waist.
Pseu- I thought we older gals weren’t supposed to wear short skirts? Yours looks fantastic on you:)
Love that you are wearing your Nordstrom Tights!!
Isn’t it an odd moment when you put on something you loved and then one day, it’s definitely over?
Knit tunics are tricky- need to be somewhat fine to flow nicely but that very quality lends them to stretching out over time.
Yes, let the tunic go.
I have enjoyed cleaning out my closet over the last month. It helps me to know what I need to look forward to replenishing.
BTW, nice cuff!
It would probably still work if it didn’t have pockets. I bet those pockets are to blame for it stretching out.
I have super sensitive skin too. Hate it!
I agree the tunic is past its prime, but I love the proportions it gives this outfit. The drapey style of the tunic really elongates your torso; I think you should look for a replacement. Also, your legs look fab! That’s a great skirt length for you.
Dear Femme,sorry, I totally forgot about your irritated neck! Silk is simply the best.
Hope your skin recovers soon. I make the same experience again and again with acne-lotions. In the end I can’t tell if I break out because the lotion causes it or if it is a stage in the process of improvement. Sure some companies get rich by the time.
beyondbeige – yes, I’ve heard that too. I think at our age it’s a question of balance. If the skirt if short, no décolletage, and visa versa. And thank you!
Who Moved My Birkin – love these tights! You’re inspiring me to shop for some with pattern now.
Duchesse – yes, suddenly it just seemed a bit sad. And I know what you mean about the weight of the fabric.
Susan Tiner – I don’t think the pockets stretched it out so much as they just seem to accentuate it. But the pockets were one of the design details I liked the most about this piece initially! Oh well…live and learn.
Belle – yes, it’s that time of year to decide whether the sweaters go back into their bags or to be donated. This cuff is so fantastic; I get compliments from strangers every time I wear it!!
Paula – thanks! Yes, the neck is much better now. It’s frustrating, isn’t it?
Audi – thanks so much! I love these proportions too and will definitely be on the lookout for something similar.