When I wrote last week’s post, I had almost finished deciding what to do with the 14 items from my everyday closet that hadn’t been worn since I did my seasonal closet switch at the end of September. I’d returned several to my closet and started wearing them, started a donate pile, and set aside a couple of pieces to be upcycled. That left me with just two tops that I was undecided about. Once I realized that I had something very similar to one of them in the closet, that it fit me better, and that I actually preferred it, adding that one to the donate pile was a no brainer. That left me with just one last piece to deal with and I thought it might be fun to ask you to help me decide.
Keep or donate, that is the question!
This is the Timeless Blouse from cabi’s Fall 2020 collection. There are several things that I really like about it. The midnight blue colour is versatile and flattering to my complexion. I like the neckline, the fit is perfect and I love the silky fabric.
It’s only the puffy, pleated sleeves that are a bit outside my comfort zone and have made me somewhat reluctant to wear this blouse. They remind me of pictures of medieval dresses.
So, what is the verdict? Do you think I should keep this blouse or add it to the donate pile?
Following Augustine 
I think it looks elegant on you. I’d keep it.
Thanks, Anne!
If you can get more comfortable with this piece, it is very on trend with the long cuffs and full sleeve. The sleeves are feminine but not girlie. Balance the sleeves with a visually heavier necklace and it would be very nice.
With puffy sleeves making a comeback this year, perhaps I should hang onto this a bit longer. Thanks for your comment.
It’s not something I would ever wear as I don’t like puffy sleeves at anytime. But saying that, if it is something that you like, it does look good on you Elaine.
Thanks, Verna!
I love the color of this top, but it’s just too fussy, to me. You certainly look nice in it, but if it was mine, I’d donate it. Not sure this is very helpful!
I’m getting mixed reviews and still trying to make up my mind, but it’s fun hearing what others think.
How do you feel when you wear it? Do you feel self conscious about those sleeves? I think I would. Since you love the color and the fit, would you get enough wear out of it to keep it for under coats and jackets? JanF
That’s the main reason that I’ve kept it this long!
It sounds like a pass to me. If the sleeves have kept let you from wearing it until now, they will probably continue to make it a last choice in your closet. If it’s some other reason you’re hanging on to it, like maybe the price tag, I always think to myself, “Here’s a gift to someone out there who will love to wear this.” Makes it easier to let go sometimes.
If you still can’t decide, just hang the hanger backwards and time will tell you.
Good suggestion, Kari!
That top looks great on you! The color is right and so is the neckline. The puffy sleeves aren’t overly puffy and are more subtle with the dark color, too. It also seems very versatile … it looks wonderful with your jeans and I can picture it with dressier pants or a skirt, too. I’d keep it!
Thanks, Beth!
Have you thought of having it altered? The sleeves might be less overwhelming if they were elbow length.
Hmm… I hadn’t thought of that possibility.
Wear what makes you feel beautiful and amazing.
I like that idea!
Looks lovely.Can you shorten the cuff to a two inch band.Think balance would look better
Interesting idea! I can’t shorten the cuffs that much because I have long arms, but I could cut them down by about two and a half inches which would reduce the puffy look of the sleeves somewhat.
You have some wonderful alteration ideas to consider. If you haven’t already thought of this, why not turn the sleeves under a few inches and take another look in the mirror before making a commitment. The idea to convert it to a three quarter sleeve could also be given a “dress rehearsal” this way. I hope you’ll let us know what you decide to do.
I’m definitely going to play around with it a bit before I make a final decision. I do like the idea of shortening those long cuffs by turning them under a little.