I wore my date top to work today, with tan trousers and black pumps. One of the “features” of this top is that it has a zipper in the side. It’s one of those mystery zippers that doesn’t go all the way up or down the side — it’s just an opening. I don’t really need to unzip it to get the top on or off, but when I took it off after last wearing it, I unzipped it anyway. But I didn’t remember that this morning when I put it on. I spent the first half of my day today with a 12″ opening in the side of my shirt. I didn’t notice any kind of breeziness going on, but I did think it felt a little looser… I am such a big dork.

Whew. I’m back. Let me just say that it’s been quite a long while since I last went on a date. It’s hard to meet men in general, let alone single men. I don’t go to bars, I haven’t gone to church in years, and there just don’t seem to be that many available men working the rabbit rescue circuit. I’ve tried online dating sites off and on, but not with any success. No one has ever really offered to fix me up, until recently someone I barely know at work did. I have nothing to lose by letting someone play matchmaker, so I figured I’d let him. We’ll see how it goes — I’m trying to keep my expectations low, and hopefully I’ll be pleasantly surprised.

You know, I don’t have a thing to wear. I think we’re going to a casual restaurant, so I’m thinking some dark Levi’s, my new floral top from Kohl’s, and some wedge shoes. How ’bout it?

	This is a new work top. I think it will go great with either charcoal or black pants, so I guess I’m fortunate to have those already. I’m not a big fan of fabric belts like this, but the shirt fit so great otherwise that I’ll try to live with it. Style & Co. at Macy’s.
	Another new work top. I’ve never really liked the twofers — two, two, two shirts in one! They’re so easy, though, and they’re not as bulky as two separate shirts layered like this would be. The last thing I need is more bulk. ny collection at Macy’s.
	Didn’t I just read somewhere that everyone needs a twinset? I’m so ready for brighter colors and warmer weather (as a sidenote, we had a high of 66F in the middle of Indiana today. Weird.), and I think this will take me through spring nicely. I think I can wear this color with every pair of pants I own… Charter Club at Macy’s.
	I like a nice oxford just as much as the next girl. This was a leetle bit big, but I’m probably going to wear it with jeans — I prefer a more tailored look on business dress days. The next size smaller was just too tight across the bust… curse these German farm-girl genes! Charter Club by Macy’s.
	This shirt makes me think of summer! I can wear this on casual days at work — I get tired of the t-shirt and jeans routine, and this will make a nice change. I do think the hem on this is a little odd; it’s curved, front and back, like most button-downs are. Whatever. CJBanks for Christopher & Banks.
	I have such a hard time finding dresses that look even halfway attractive… I usually buy them when I do. I like the fit of the dress, but the little cardigan is not a very flattering color. I’m not sure if this is a keeper, but it has a built-in bra! How could I resist? Madison Leigh at Macy’s.

I need to find some shoes to go with the dress… I’m thinking some cute skimmers, like these or these, or maybe some little heels like these. I could shop for shoes for days… it’s honestly surprising I don’t have more.

This year I’m not doing it. I got rid of almost everything at the end of the season, and I’m starting over. I’m going to rebuild my wardrobe for the body I have, not the one I want. It’s going to be challenging — I’m 5’2″ and wear a size 18/20. They don’t make a lot of clothes for my frame, so I have to be choosy to begin with. I also want a grown-up wardrobe — the wardrobe of a 32 year old professional, not a 21 year old college senior. More classics, fewer trends.

I’ve put together a list on Kaboodle with some of the things I’ve found so far… I just need to keep it in mind when I go shopping locally, and hope I can find similar items around and about.