Sometimes a Shirt, Sometimes a Beach Cover Up

I originally purchased this top two years ago from Express. The hippie look was in, and the color was divine. I used to wear it with tight, very flared cotton jeans. Then the hippie look was a bit out, the top became a fabulous beach cover up. It's a crinkly gauzy cotton, dried quickly and already had a wrinkled finish so didn't look bad damp and smashed at the bottom of a tote.

Something lately made me bring it back to wardrobe status. I have it paired with my longed jeans - lowrise bootcut from The Gap in a dirty vintage wash. Enzo black boots. Two purple beaded necklaces from Express, gold chandelier earrings from Express.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel concealer and powder. A bit of Almay bronzer on the face for color, Nars Orgasm blush - just a hint on the cheeks. On the eyes is The Body Shop's Fawn Pearl on the lid, and their Damson color on the crease and along both lash lines. Of course a heavy dose of MAC's X mascara. On the lips is Sally Hansen's Champagne Toast lip gloss with The Body Shop's Beech liner pencils over it.

I am timid to wear long tops, tunics and dresses over jeans. I am short, I am not thin, and I am curvy. Long tops often stunt a person and hide the curves, leaving just bulk. However I needed change without blowing my budget and I am glad I wore this. I have received multiple compliments in the office from all types of people. Every time I break a fashion "rule" I am always happy with the results. Don't expect me to be in a belly top or gaucho pants any time soon, but every so often I will wear something that is not typically "flattering" for my body type. Why not, life is short and so am I!