While I’m unlikely to learn the value of a good thick skirt for travel by falling into a jaguar pit — as did 19th-century traveller Mary Kingsley, whose skirt saved her from impalement on the nine foot-long ebony spikes on which she landed — I do feel very lucky to have found this grey, wool, tweed, pleated skirt at The Gap about twelve years ago. I’ve worn it every winter since (see it here and here and here and here) and I’m still pleased by the Bluestocking Chic it conjures for me. I’m even vaguely considering it for my upcoming trip to Paris and Rome, except that its bulk and pleats don’t conform to my carry-on restrictions, so I’d have to be willing to wear it for all the plane and train days. . . .
It makes a good argument, though, when it plays so well with my recently completed Marinière-inspired sweater (Kate Davies-designed Strodie, knit with KDD Milarrochy Tweed). . . and the little beret I knit myself last year with some luscious cashmere. . . .
The skirt will probably get left at home, so I’m taking it out and about as much as I can right now. . . So easy to wear. . . (and speaking of easy to wear, check out my friend Sue’s latest post — she shows some of the behind-the-scenes work that makes Easy Dressing, as she says, So Easy).
Then jacket (Eileen Fisher) and my metallic gold Italian (MOMA) Oxfords, a pair of red leather gloves I’ve somehow managed not to lose for four or five years now. . . . and I’m off. Mind you, this photo was taken a week ago, when it wasn’t raining continually. Today, I might swap the oxfords for my Blundstone boots and grab an umbrella. . .
So what about you? Any of you still wearing a ten-year-old skirt and liking it? Have you settled into a fall uniform of sorts? (I see Alyson just posted about hers at That’s Not My Age and Lisa’sdebating adding one more high-necked, printed top to stretch her uniform of high-waisted jeans, gorgeous printed top, and street-sassy Timberland boots). And finally, go ahead: talk me in or out of wearing this skirt on the plane (and train, and train and plane. . . .
I've adopted a similar look to Sue right now because I can get dressed really quickly if I'm going to work. If there's a fire drill or recess duty, I'm comfortable, warm and dry. As a woman of the upper 60's age group, I think sometimes that "less is more". I've got a few woollen pieces that have been in my closet for many years.
Bluestocking chic is timeless.
I will share my secret plan but there is a caveat…it won't work in hot weather or if there is a wide variance in temperature. It is this: for the time you are away, set yourself free from the need to vary your clothing. So take the skirt and one pair of some comfortable but presentable bottoms (jeans/pants/trousers). Tops and tights. Sneakers and a pair of boots. Done!
I’d take the skirt…. if you think it will be cold in Rome. Otherwise I’d leave it at home. Then when you get back you can be all excited about wearing it again. You know what we say… absence makes you really fond of everything in your closet you didn’t pack. 😀
P.S. Thanks for the shout out. ❤️
Ten-year old skirt? How about 20-year old skirt? I have an old Ralph Lauren paisley challis wool skirt I am still wearing! I just hope it doesn't wear out. I'd be tempted to take your skirt with you on the trip if you really enjoy wearing it. It's long enough to be comfortable whether sitting or walking.
slf
Oh, how I do love that skirt on you! The fact that it's held up so well speaks (sadly) to the fact that few pieces from Gap or similar retailers would have the same longevity today.
The striped sweater is just brilliant, and I love the sophisticated color of that beret. A pop, but not a loud one. Well-done all around!
Your outfit looks very Paris, France. Yes, I too, own 10+ year clothing items. The quality pieces stand the test of time. They truly are timeless. Susan
All your looks here are very Parisian. I love the beret–beautiful color.
I have some clothes dating back to the mid-1980s. They don't make 'em like they used to. A simple black skirt, kind of straight, very long, with a big slit in the back and buttons up the front; I can button it all and the slit allows for easy walking but it hangs straight as a pencil when I stand, or I can unbutton as high as I dare to show some leg in summer. With pockets. It's perfect. Bought on my first trip to Paris in 1985. It used to be too big but that's no longer an issue.
I love,love the beret! The whole outfit is nice,
Skirts can be very practical,I wear long skirts rarely,although have two of them – maybe (if the winter will be mild) I'll change this. In combination with short jacket,they look lovely
Dottoressa
What I am liking most of all is your lipstick with your beret and glove color. It all looks very fetching together. Your smile in one of the photos with beret shows a very contented lady; really lovely to see.
The concept of a uniform appeals in lots of ways, but I never seem to approach achieving one even though travel packing would be easier if I did. Lack of choice brings me unease!
My vote is wear the skirt there, for all travel days while there and on those days in between when you want the comfort of feeling most like yourself.
I am curious…do you wear wool tights with it in Winter? Perhaps Vancouver, at least, never gets so cold that they would be required? I am thinking of the photos of snow in Rome last Winter….hmmm, maybe bring some wool tights?!
Ceri in London, just saw your comment a few posts back and have responded there. Thank you.
A.in London
Mme: I can imagine you need to have your closet organized. Those are busy days with all your students!
Georgia: This is exactly what I've been thinking! You probably know I always travel carry-on-only, and have done so for trips up to ten weeks long. But I've usually had a very full case and have worried more about having variety. This time, I think I'll do pretty close to what you suggest. I might bore myself, but I doubt anyone else will notice, never mind care 😉
Sue B: You're very welcome! As for the skirt, I don't think I'll be sweltering in it in Rome, and I'm leaning toward taking it. But you're right about the joy with which we often embrace our left-at-home garments when we return. . .
SLF: 20 years, Brava! I love paisley wool challis — haven't seen any in stores forever, but it's a timeless fabric.
Thanks Sue! And yes, this skirt is worlds away from what is on offer at Gap these days. Haven't shopped there for ages and ages now, and it's such a shame. They did some great pieces during that year or two my skirt was made — remember that series of white shirts? each designed by an invited designer? (before the trend of fast fashion-designer collaborations).
Susan: Three Susans already! It's a Susan day, and happy to have you all here 😉 Another one who hangs on to the good pieces. They bring a special pleasure, don't they? And confirm a consistency in our personal style that transcends fashion.
Taste of France: Oh! That skirt sounds sensational! I can think of a few skirts I wore in the mid-80s that I wish I'd kept. A midi-skirts in wide-wale navy corduroy with pockets, big buttons down the front. . .
Dottoressa: Your winters need a more serious approach than mine, I know, but this particular skirt works in the snow and cold, thanks to the wool and the length. But yes, the length is an issue when it comes to choosing the right coat, and I'm probably going to bring a knee-length rather than short. . . hmmm.. . . .
A in London: Thanks! Funny what a difference that quick slap-on of lipstick can make, isn't it? Like magic sometimes in bringing the energy. Your vote is for the direction in which I'm leaning now. I would only wear wool tights if the temperature is -5 C or colder, which doesn't happen too often here. Generally one or two bouts a winter, not usually for more than a week. And this skirt, being wool, and with the added thickness/weight provided by the pleats, is quite warm with regular tights. The snow in Rome last winter wouldn't have been a problem for it (it didn't stay very cold for very long, really). . . The skirt's actually much more than the jeans I would otherwise be wearing. . .
Really like the outfit but would not take a pleated wool skirt if you plan to wear it with a short jacket, because if weather is rainy or even drizzly, the wool gets damp- uncomfortable and takes a long time to dry. Also, pleats 'sit out' in the back.
I have many cashmere sweaters that are 15 or more years old! Eric Bompoard still sell the identical style but mine are going strong. They feel so good here… it's raining ice today!
PS I'm with Georgia, but need one more bottom piece. I take two pairs of identical "techno" pants (by Lole), way lighter in bag than jeans and dry in a flash, and a skirt. A few tops and cashmere sweater… done. There is a lot of black but that's fine. A pair of silk longjohns for chill this time of year.
Duchesse: Thanks! The Eric Bompard sweaters I have are all your fault 😉 — none as old as yours, but I can see how they will get there. . . I'm quite used to wearing this skirt in the rain here, and I don't find that a problem anymore than wearing jeans (less, in fact, since wool holds heat when wet whereas cotton doesn't). I'm planning to bring a knee-length coat — wool, so it does pose the problem of getting damp, but again, Vancouver-rain-tested, so with my umbrella it will be fine. I've debated bringing my (roomy) M0851 water-resistant coat instead, and it's roomy enough to layer a sweater underneath for warmth, but I think I'm going with the tailored wool. We'll see. . . I don't tend to wear techno pants but there's a good argument for travelling with them. Definitely slipping in a pair of silk longjohns, just in case and for pjs in my hotel room. . . so light. . .
No skirts for me in the cold weather. No matter how thick the skirt or the tights, the cold air seems to blow right up. I'd prefer a good pair of wool trousers.
I might bring the skirt/wear the skirt simply as a fun exercise. You know, to see how it goes? And it would look great with hiking boots BTW. No I am not kidding, all the cool girls are wearing hiking boots and I do not mean me. The beret is, wait for it, adorable;).
You have just reminded me that I have two gilets, one leather, one suede. I bought them in 2001, I think. And I constantly forget to wear them in the cold weather. Like today. So thanks for that, and I will get them out, put them front and centre. They will liven the upcoming dog walks.
One of my oldest garments is a sweater which I made in 1990. After wearing it for several years I found that the waist and wristband were too tight, the shape felt wrong, so I put it away. It sat in my cupboard for about ten years, then I took off the bands at waist, wrists and neck and instead just bound off loosely. Now it is a boxy shape with 3/4 sleeves and I still get compliments on the design (Kaffe Fassett – what else!). There is a drawer full of things which are awaiting the same kind of reawakening.
I love your beret, both its shape and colour. It looks wonderful on you.
Love the skirt and the outfit development on you. I wouldn’t dream of talking anyone into our out of anything. Wear what you love and what you will love wearing. Sometimes it is too easy to get wrapped up in a common vision of practicality and forget the individual side of the question. I don’t see you doing that though.
Maggie, If it's that cold, I have ribbed wool tights, but my climate isn't like yours. . .
Lisa: This is what I'm thinking — why not try it? I did that once before (with my green leather knee-high boots, not obviously practical at all but they'd been working well for me at home) and it paid off. . . I do see the cool girls in their hiking boots and if I still had a pair. . . meanwhile, the Blundstones are my default footwear of fall and winter. (Adorable, really? Aw shucks ;-))
Annie G: Over or under a sweater or coat? I love the word "gilet" which we don't use here — ours are vests (although they may well be "gilets" in Quebec)
Eleonore: You could be leading workshops in this climate of renewed interest in mending and "upcycling" Very clever! (I recently mended holes in the grandkids' socks when they were here for a weekend — the Four, especially, thought it was magic 😉
Mardel: Thanks (I so relate to your "I wouldn't dream of talking anyone into or out of anything")
Having given my only skirt to my daughter, I'm not best placed to decide between skirt and trousers! But if you're a confirmed skirt-wearer you'll probably negotiate without a thought what would be my hesitations about comfort, so I'm not going to try to advise either! Will be full of suspense waiting for the Parisian reveal.
I am of the "take the skirt" brigade. It looks great (especially with that sweater!), will be incredibly comfortable on the flight, and you like it.
I'm going to Lisbon and environs for 10 days at the end of January for our scouting trip for the big move, and am already fretting about my wardrobe. I'll probably fall somewhere along the lines of Sue Burpee's Croatia wardrobe – although, I confess, *I* don't like to be bored! Forget what other people think, it's all about me.
Carol