Top: Gorman
Cardigan: Glassons
Skirt: Etsy
Shoes: Seychelles via DSW
Last year, when I was performing a last brutal cull of my wardrobe pre-New York, I retired the DIY’d grey drape skirt that I’d made back in 2011.
I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that I’ve reached for it half a dozen times since then before remembering it’s not in my closet, so I thought maybe it was time to try to source a replacement.
The skirt I made was good, but it was far from perfect. The pleat in front didn’t quite give it the full draping effect that I’d wanted. When I spotted this ruched jersey midi skirt from CT by Couture Time on Etsy I knew I’d found my new drapey skirt.
The pleated hips and front panel reminded me a little of the old Thelma draped dress that I bought from Igigi a couple of years ago, but on-sold when it turned out to be too big for me. I love the look – it’s a bit Deco, a bit Egyptian, a bit sarong-like. I deliberated for ages over colours – it’s available in at least 23 different shades! – before finally deciding that the taupe would be a good versatile choice.
I probably should have gone with a charcoal or navy, but I figured black, grey and blue skirts are easy enough to come by in the shops – I wanted something a little different.
I had it in my mind that I’d wear it with equally drapey layers: the cocoon cardigan from Yours clothing, or the long grey cardigan from Uniqlo. Both looked dreadful, and for a moment I was worried I’d bought another skirt that looked great topless, but didn’t play well with anything else in my wardrobe.
After a bit of trial and error I discovered that there were a couple of tops it worked with, and the gold-polkadot-print tee from Gorman (that I’d stopped wearing because repeated washings had made it look a bit sloppy) was one of them.
Add a cardigan for warmth, and a long necklace and I was ready to roll.
So, hands up who knew mint and mustard went together? Me neither, until I saw the unlikely pairing on Pinterest (ahh mustard. Is there ANYTHING you don’t go with?). I’m glad they do, because it means I can wear it with the adorable ceramic cat necklace that my dear friend, and former housemate K gave me as a birthday pressie.
Necklace: Jasmin Blanc Boutique
Isn’t it adorable? Whenever I’m feeling blue or introspective during the day I find myself fondling it – it’s like my little happy-place talisman.
One of my workmates – someone who hates internet shopping with the power of a thousand suns – commented on it, and when I told her that the jeweller will even custom-make one for you in the likeness of your own beloved pussycat she announced to my very great surprise that she was going to place her very first online order. So there you go: Lilli: enabler extraordinaire!
You are an enabler! Without you I would never have discovered Etsy and become addicted!! I am now looking into having a cat necklace made! You also made me (yes MADE FORCED) me to fall in love with mustard which has lead to an epic mission to buy ALL the things mustard (cardi, jumper, t-shirt, skirt, necklace, earrings – all I need now are shoes and trousers!!). Its why I love your blog!
I just want to say HOLY GORGEOUS HAIR! When I saw the first pic my mouth dropped open – your hair looks fantastic! And I love this outfit. You look stunning. 🙂
You look fabulous and I love the little kitty cat!
Your outfits are always lovely, interesting, and elegant, and you are always very beautiful, but this is my favourite post in a long while as you look so smiley! I hope life is giving you lots to smile about these days, and wish you all the best.
PS. I hope you don’t mind this comment.
How gorgeous is this outfit! You always look amazing. And the kitty cat necklace/lucky charm is adorable. You really do have an incredible sense of style. In a sea of fashion bloggers, you and your blog are wonderfully unique.
did you get it custom made? because the pic has more of a high-low look than what you’re wearing. I much prefer yours!! gosh, I think I have to buy one..and get a kitty necklace too (custom made to resemble my kitties of course!)
Mustard is definitely one of your colours!! I love everything about this outfit. Don’t cut your hair!!!
YOU! You just keep getting more and more beautiful! How do you do it?! Love the outfit and the kitty. Mustard is pretty much my favorite neutral. xo
Dear Lilli,
I am so happy to have found your blog, and seeing this wonderful outfit styled with the little kitty necklace I made, oh my, it warms my heart. And when such things happen, I truly feel that bringing a moment of joy into someone’s life in the world, through what I create, is the purpose of my life. Thank you for reminding me of that with your amazing styling and kindhearted words.
I was wondering if you would be okay with me sharing your blog post on my Facebook page?
I hope the kitty brings you not only smiles but good luck too! 🙂
Sincerely,
Erika @jasminblancstudio
Hi Erika,
Thank you for making such a lovely piece of jewellery! I’m glad you found the blog, and please feel welcome to share it!
I would never have thought of mustard and taupe together but they look great! Really like the skirt 🙂
Oh my god. I thought that skirt looked familiar. I can attest to CT by CoutureTime’s quality. I have a draped dress from her which was astounding, and have gone back to get her to make the skirt you linked! Crazy world.
Greetings to you from a stranger from St. Petersburg (Russia). I think that your fashion is very stylish and unusual, though you clothe ordinary things … And another thing: You are beautiful! You conqueror of men’s hearts? ))
I am so tempted to get the “sparkle blue” skirt. Because, you know, SPARKLES.
This skirt is just to. die. for.