OUTSIDE MY COMFORT ZONE

Anthropologie is one of my favorite stores. I used to drool over their clothes online. When I was in New York last year, I nearly fainted at the thought of going into and actually purchasing something from a real live store. It's one of those few shops where I could see myself wearing the clothes. The problem is, I can't really afford the clothes. Now I live in a town that has two Anthropologie stores (much to Chris's dismay). Occasionally I go in and browse the sales racks where I get to choose one thing. Saturday, I stopped by VS to take advantage of their 7 cotton panties for $25 sale. Then Chris and I started walking down to the bookstore, but we passed Anthropologie on the way. I ducked in before Chris could say anything. There were many things on the sales rack that I could have taken home that day, but I decided on this orange shirt. I had originally tried on one in navy, but I put it back and replaced it with the orange. I did this for a number of reasons.

I used to by only white or off-white panties. Now when I go in to stock up, I force myself to choose the most outlandish colors. This batch even includes a pair with glittery polka-dots. It's taken years to get comfortable enough to just wear colored underwear. The top is no different. First of all, I would never choose a top like this for myself. It's fitted in all the places that make me self conscious. But after trying on the navy blue one, I realized it's quite a flattering cut. I went back for the orange for the same reason I no longer allow myself to buy white underwear. It's a bright color. It stands out.

Maybe I've been watching too much "What Not To Wear" lately, but some of those things that Stacy and Clinton have been saying may be working it's way into my brain. I tend to be a bright, joyful person. Shouldn't the things I wear reflect that? I'm at a place in my life where I no longer feel the need to hide myself in gray and brown. I admit. It's going to be hard to wear that shirt the first time. But I know, just like with the colored panties, it will get easier. It stands out, because I stand out.

Plus, it's orange. I can wear it on game days. Go Pokes!