I had a serious "I want that" moment when I saw this catalog photo. Turns out, it doesn't look as good on me as it does on her. Which is why I love taking photos of new items before I wear them, because photos are so helpful in seeing how things really look. It can be a selfie in the mirror or taken by a friend, but I swear by it. Seeing them side by side, the skirt looks better on the model's shape, and my old top is not nearly as similar as I thought (shape is similar but print is a lighter color palette). I'm also trying on new shoes here - but I can see in the picture that they don't come up high enough on my foot (I want it more at the ankle like designer pairs I've seen). I may try this outfit idea with other items already in my closet, I'm always game for a good mix of neutrals!

Top: Express, $35 (similar, similar, similar)
Skirt: Limited, $30
Shoes: ShoeDazzle, $39 
Hat: J.Crew Factory, $17 (similar, similar)
Earrings: My Stella & Dot
Approx. dates: Top is 5 years ago. Hat is recent. Skirt and shoes are new, returning both.

Gap  /  ASOS  /  Alloy
Rag and Bone  /  Forever 21  /  H&M
Forever 21 /  7 For All Mankind  /  River Island

Speaking of skirts, let's talk about another kind that's hot right now - the denim skirt! If you don't already have one from a decade or two ago, here are a few under $100 that I'm loving.