This was not love at first sight. When I saw this top and skirt combo, I really didn't think it was for me. For starters, I don't like plaid or checks. And I didn't think the length of the skirt would look flattering on me. But when Sajida, owner of Saji's Couture asked me to try this on {she does home visits and shows you clothes she wants you to try in addition to what you're getting made from her/ buying from her}, I was head over heels.
The top is a soft cotton mix material, because of which the blouse looks flowy and feminine. The keyhole at the neck and the cute little bow adds some whimsy and a girly touch to an otherwise manly check material. There's ruching at the sleeve ends, which adds more interest to make the top stand out.
The skirt, surprisingly, is a thick linen material. Usually, linen is thin and creases easily. But this one is a thick fabric. My favourite parts about the skirt are the paper bag waist effect and the length. The paper bag waist adds lovely flair to what would be just another black midi skirt. Since the material is thick, the pleats hold their structure and catch the eye. The skirt ending a few inches above the ankle makes for a very elegant and sophisticated length.
Since the skirt is linen and the shape is A-line, it makes for a very comfy fit and it flows with you. As you can see from my photos, there was a lot of wind when I was taking these, but the skirt doesn't look unflattering even when it's plastered to my legs. The closure is a zipper on the side. As the blouse is slightly loose, it sits perfectly in the paper bag pleats. I think what really works for this top and skirt combo is that it's very simple, with some very interesting accents so it doesn't look altogether plain.
What I love about this outfit is that it's not a dress. It's two separate pieces. I'd love to try the top with other skirts and trousers, and the skirt with different coloured tops. Being black and white, they'll go with anything. It just expands your wardrobe when you have two separates that you can mix and match with your other pieces.
The entire combo feels very retro and Elizabethan. It's such a different look. At least it is for me, who's so used to wearing colours and certain lengths in skirts and dresses. I love how Sajida always challenges my sartorial mindsets.
Since the clothes are black and white, I added colour with my accessories. I wore simple pear-drop earrings with red stones. I wore a gold ring on one hand. A pink bag and pink and orange peep-toe heels complete the look and add pops of colour to this monochromatic look.
Top and Skirt combo: Saji's Couture, Earrings: Al Jasra Jewellery, Ring, Bag: Gifted, Shoes: Steve Madden.
In other news, I know I haven't blogged in some time. If you're a regular reader you would have noticed I didn't post my regular health and fitness post after the last outfit post. I've just been super busy with work. It's been hectic at The Silver Kick Company recently as we make our first foray into the Saudi market. Women being able to drive in Saudi is such a boon. I drove down myself last week {had my parents in the car. Didn't have the courage to drive alone the first time} and it felt so liberating. Finally, we ladies don't have to rely on men to take us there.
But it does take up half your day as you drive into Saudi and back. Which leaves me with half the day to catch up on all my emails and work. All the public holidays aren't helping either. Last Tuesday was a holiday for the new Arabic year and it just felt so weird. Having a day off in the middle of the week is so confusing.
Anyhow. With everything going on, the blog had to take a backseat. And that makes me very sad because it IS something I love doing immensely- writing blog posts for all of you. I've been thinking about how to organize my time better so I can churn out my regular bi-weekly posts. Looks like I'll have to schedule blogging and set aside time for it so I don't miss posts.
What's your take on time management? What takes a back seat when your life gets busier all of a sudden? What time management tools help you keep life organized? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
Until next time
xoxo
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