Fashion flashback

While I'm in my in between phase (haven't sent off my computer yet, still don't want to add new files to it), we're going to do a bit of a flashback period... some of my older outfits which I've got pictures of, but have never posted... they may be outdated in some regards, but I tend to go for classic looks... if I could wear it 6 years ago, I can probably still wear it today.

This outfit, however, is NOT 6 years old... it was first worn back in June of this year, on a chilly, rainy day that demanded putting on a bit more than June usually calls for. (Since my feet are not shown in these pictures, I'll just clarify that I'm wearing my black pumps from Payless with the laceup toes with this outfit)



Cardigan is Dolce by JJ Basics, from Nordstrom Rack for about $15
Purple tank is Mossimo from Target, about $7
Black cami is Vol. 1, Nordstrom rack, $12 (you guys should recognize this by now)
Skirt was DIY, and I'll actually clarify how I made that in a sec... the pants used to make it were $20 from Wet Seal
Tights are HUE from Nordstrom Rack, $5
Belt/sash is Converse, from Target, about $17
Necklace was a birthday present

I was trying to get for a fun take on a Japanese look here, hence the sash around the waist, and attempted kimono style fold of the neckline of the sweater. I had success without getting the outfit to stay put ALL NIGHT, which was a total bonus for me, who usually has my clothes going every which way.
The idea was to be a fun yet classy look, so I went for a very conservative look from the waist down, with the colorful layered look up top. I got many compliments on my outfit that night.

Wondering how I made the skirt?
Well, it was sort of a success/failure type of venture. Failure in the fact that if you saw the waist, you'd run screaming away from it. But the success comes in how nicely the shape of the skirt turned out, so if I cover up the waistband, it looks quite decent.
I had an old pair of work pants that were just not holding up anymore (holes aplenty!), so I went with a DIY project I'd been wanting to try for some time. The original plan was to pleat it, but I didn't have as much material as I thought I did. This is actually a really simply project to do at home, if you're better at sewing in a straight line than I am (the waist had mega potential... I just can't do anything in a straight line).
I cut the top of the pants off right below the zipper, and then for the skirt part, I actually took the lower, flared part of the legs, rather than the usual sort of "make it at home" skirt where you just cut open the crotch and sew together. That's why it's flared out. I can't remember how long I made it, but whatever it was, I cut a quarter inch above that for something to sew into the waist. I ripped the insides of the legs open, and sewed them together. Then, to give it a more streamlined look than random, awkwardly placed seams, I turned the skirt before sewing it to the waistband so I'd have two seams in front, two in back. Again, QUITE pleased with how the skirt turned out, and I do wear it quite frequently. Yay for creativity! One day, I'll try again, hopefully with more success.