TBMD

Off the top of my head, there's nothing more spring-like than a wicker basket. The sight of one immediately conjures up picnics under a gigantic tree, or a lazy afternoon frolicking through the flower fields (making mental notes and adding both to my bucket list!) Though not very practical (perhaps only a bit more so than an evening clutch), I do love their whimsical nature. The easiest way to style wicker baskets is to pair them with feminine pieces (lace, frills, floral prints), light colors (white, pastels), and/or with warm temperature fabrics and textures (silk, linen, light cotton). I cannot wait to wear mine all throughout the spring and summer months. Yay or nay -- are you a fan of wicker baskets?

I'm so, so behind on blogging it's not even funny. Thank you all who are still hanging around here willing to put up with my sporadic, weekly-at-best posts.

A recurring theme every spring seems to be me subconsciously reaching for feminine pieces from my closet. (I blame it on the blooms, because flowers = pretty). Some years, it's lace. This year, it's pleats. Pretty in pleats was what ran through my mind as I put together today's outfit.

When I saw the forecast calling for spring temperatures this week, I knew I wanted to wear these pleated wide-leg cropped pants (the rest of the outfit TBD until the night before). The months-long wait was worth it! Unfortunately BR released the pants over the winter, so they are now sold out. Fingers crossed they will re-release in other colors.

The pants move like a dream. I was literally sashay-ing down the long hallway at work (just like the second photo below) when a coworker approaching from the other end stopped to say how she loved the movement and look of the pleated fabric. I enthusiastically and wholeheartedly agreed.

The pants aren't a perfect fit on me though. I hacked together this look by creating a paperbag effect with a belt to tighten the waist by a couple of inches -- all done without belt loops! I'm still undecided on whether I should ask my tailor to shorten the hem by one inch and also add in belt loops? Or simply add belt loops only? I keep waffling between the two depending on my mood. Feel free to leave me a comment if you have thoughts.

There are some outfits where a color palette just works. The last time I wore this black sweater + leopard midi skirt combo (both items on sale!), I accessorized with more black and camel. This time around, I went with accessories that are shades in-between, in the brown family. Dark neutrals are just the perfect complement.