Putting my wardrobe to work

When I was in my early twenties, it would not be uncommon for me to literally put together an outfit right before going out. I would cut a kid's t-shirt into a one-shoulder tank or wear a tube top as a mini skirt. I always improvised and made my wardrobe work for me. I was living on my own in Hollywood and my budget wasn't even big enough to classify as "tight".

As I've grown older I still find ways to be thrifty and make my clothes do all the work.

So yesterday I received the Ochre Ikat skirt that I've been waiting for. It arrived, I did a cursory "try-on" (aka I held it up to me) and then I quickly hand washed it so it could be worn today.

I ironed it this morning and put it on.

Just...a...tad...too...big. Some girls can wear a low-slung pencil skirt. I am not that girl. I'm either short-waisted or long-waisted (which is which?) because the end result makes my torso look three miles long and my legs look squat.

So I pulled the skirt up and held it at my back. Yes, this skirt would be marvelous at my natural waist...when I have time to go to the tailor. But I want to wear it NOW! /tantrum

I rifled through my closet and found a wide elastic belt. I pulled the skirt up and belted it...hmmm, that doesn't look half-bad. Sorta kinda like a paperbag waist.

And if it looks stupid, I thought, I'll just take off the belt when I get to work!

Yes, in the work restroom. This skirt wrinkles when you look at it, but I don't care!

Here's what I'm wearing today (belt is actually a super cute Old Navy number):

Ochre Skirt redux by I Totally Need This featuring J Crew

Here's where to find the goodies:

Ochre Ikat Skirt (no longer available): Alternative here or here
Grand Ruffle Shell (no longer available): Alternative here or here
Wide belt options: Try this or that
J Crew Cardigan: Alternative here
Awesome Target sandals
Steve Madden Handbag
Kate Spade Earrings: Similar here or here
Oversized Pearl Cocktail Ring: Looks like this or this

Did I make it work? I think Tim Gunn would be proud!