I confess right up front: this topic I love, but this post has been a bear to write! Don’t expect it to be exhaustive (well, it’s sorta been exhaustive … )
Frugal Classic Mom is all about being appropriately dressed for every occasion, which is why I like to have a tailored jacket on-hand. In the heat of the summer, I will tuck a cardigan in my purse. You FCMs will appreciate this quote from Cotton Incorporated — The Return of the Twin-set:
Grace Kelly knew it, Jacqueline Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn, too. The twin-set embodies timeless elegance.
Typically coordinates are more expensive to purchase, which is why I favor separates, nevertheless they are a Classic ace-in-the-hole. If you can afford to, always buy the coordinating piece when one is available (the jacket to go with the pants, the cardigan to go with the tank, and so on). You won’t regret it.
This tipped twin-set, on sale at Target, kinda reminds me of Charlotte’s tennis sweater.
Another great classic look: a Doris Day dress, frugal because it is all one piece. If you can’t find vintage, how about getting out that dusty sewing machine? For about $10, even I could make a simple dress (no buttons, though, only zippers).
Only one more thought: I hate to be the one to break it to you ladies, but I think capris are on their way out. (Actually, I never wanted to see them around in the first place, but I have adapted. They really are practical.) I have been planning my purchases for the past few years with the expectation that capris are going to be looking dated before long, buying a khaki pair for $1 each winter. What am I looking for to replace them? Long linen slacks, like these from JCPenney.
Clearly, Frugal Classic Mom has a bit more challenging time staying within her budget than us Chaco moms do, especially if second-hand clothing is not readily available in her locale. In her favor, however, she hopefully makes fewer wacky mistakes.
I fall into this category. I mostly look for the Talbot’s brand at thrift stores, usually well-made and conservative. I nearly died when I was given a GC to the retail store and saw what clothing there actually costs, though : O
Love it! I adore the twin set, and remember fondly one of my favorite maternity tops was a green knit twin set. Unfortunately it did not make it back to me for the second pg.
I have looked at the long linen pants on jcp.com several times. They are totally “me” as you know. I will be delighted to see capris go bye bye.
I won’t be wearing any one-piece dresses until I no longer nurse during the day, so maybe summer 2007. I don’t think I have worn a one piece dress since 2002.
BTW, my perfect fit t-shirts arrived today and one of them is in my hair color. I don’t think it really works, but I will put on some lipstick and see if that helps. Maybe I will take a picture and send it to you for your inspection.
Meredith ~ I am honored that you dropped by. My frugal and homeschooling friends are loving your blog, and your blogroll.
I would certainly be looking scruffy if it weren’t for thrift stores. Unfortunately they are really bad where Beth is.
Beth ~ I am so glad you liked the post. Because it was for you, I sweat over it extra. xoxo
About the t-shirts:
1) is the pink one the same color as my pink one in the “clean laundry” pic? (muted lip pink)
2) is the hair color one brown?
Maybe try combining it with something that contrasts. Like if it is a very warm color, try wearing it with your jean jacket. If it is dark, wear a light necklace; and if it is a clear/bright color try a heathery scarf?
Let me know.
Well, dear friend, I don’t think capri pants will go out in the warmer(90’s yesterday and it’s May, so think ahead to August) states. I never particularly cared for the look of capris and I fought buying any, but it is simply too hot to wear pants here for all but a couple of months of the year. Shorts aren’t an option for every woman. I do like dresses, especially one piece dresses, but not always practical for every single day, depending on what one is doing. I did find a great Burda dress pattern the other day though, and think it will become a staple for me, it it turns out as I hope it will. Katie wears lots of one piece dresses; some made from patterns my mother has had for her five daughters since the 1960’s, so they are truly Doris Day dresses! 🙂
Susan in Texas
Oh, I hope you’re wrong about capris. Because if they go out, I’m just going to have to be unfashionable and keep wearing them.
Rebecca, I am so glad I stop in here to read what’s going on in your head! I have to say that I love the twin-sets, but I don’t own one, but I do like to buy the “jacket with the skirt” so I always have a set. I can always mix ‘n’ match later, but at least I always have a “for sure” outfit.
I adore the Doris Day dress!
I just went shopping with my hubby last night (mostly JC Penney’s) and I found bermuda shorts (over the knee) and hubby said I looked slim and cute (I love him!). I bought one pair of gouchos — another super fit — and a couple tanks and fitted blouses. One of my best finds……JEANS that FIT! Eddie Bauer bootcut jeans….one pair with stretch, one plain. Oh joy! Jeans are my hardest fit to find. One can try on a billion pair and never come up with a satisfactory fit. I hate “just settling”.
Capris….I have two pair. I’ve never been sold on them, but they are nice for spring/summer. I golfed in mine on Sunday and they were just what I wanted to wear. Not too hot, not too cold. Just right!
I’m loving what you do here Rebecca! ~Jody
Jody ~ SCORE! Last fall hose Eddie Bauer jeans were the ones I was really wanting. I ended up finding a pair that fit at the Gap though, for about $12 or $15.
I like your friend Debbie’s J. Crew jeans, too. Planning for a jeans post soon.
There is no J. Crew here, but I find their stuff at Value Village from time to time and really like it.
I completely agree. I have been making bias cut skirts. That with a cardigan and my silver ballerina flats and I am set !! Plus there is sooo much you can do with a cardigan. Clarice
Beth ~ Clarice’s template would be super-cute on you (maybe a different color shoe, depending on how your hair is now). Thanks for sharing, Clarice!
Susan and Shannon ~ you have my blessing, as if that mattered, to wear capris as long as you like!
This has been a fun post!