Friday
Oct022009
Bold Black and White
Friday, October 2, 2009 at 4:17 PM 
Photo by Mark Wilson / Getty Images
The president and first lady have returned home to the White House, and while the Olympic bid was perhaps not a success, the first couple is certainly looking more stylish than ever! First Lady Mrs. O wears a graphic black and white dress, cinched at the waist with her longtime favorite Alaia belt and topped by a cropped black cardigan.
Update #1: We thought Mrs. O's windowpane dress looked familiar, but couldn't quite put our finger on it. We're delighted to learn that it's a dress from the Liz Claiborne New York Summer 2009 collection.
Update #2: Thanks to Charlene in Detroit, we've discovered that this dress is still available and on sale, here.
tagged Alaia, Liz Claiborne
Alaia, Liz Claiborne
Reader Comments (111)
Love it! Her best in a long while.
REALLY showcases the beautiful slim waist and full hips she is blessed with!
On first reading reading Florida lawyers post I thought the tone was off too. But on second thought it's not really that bad. Some women really would prefer the first lady of America to wear suits and look professional at functions like the IOC presentation etc. I don't agree but really it depends on who you're trying to impress/convince doesn't it? Some professional women think the way to be ooze authority and be taken seriously by men is to be like Hillary Rodham Clinton. PantSuit Skirt Suit. And sometimes they are probably right. But I am glad Michelle Obama is comfortable enough in her own skin to wear what she feels good and comfortable with without seeming inappropriate. She mostly has a right to wear what she feels right in and she's done a hell of a job so far. We could all do with trying to think things through properly before replying in anger. Let us try not to impose our own beliefs and opinions on others. Variety afterall is the spice of life.
Just a note. People saying the president should have stayed home are just looking for an excuse to bash. Brazil sent it's PM and also star power with Pele. Spain sent their PM and Kind AND Queen. When the president said he would not attend our crap media bashed him for WEEKS!! then when he decided to attend they bashed him for that also. I'm not proud of this country...the media paints us as a bunch of stupid cowards who don't even want to try. Work can be done WHEREVER the president is. His office Travels WITH HIM!! Where were all these bean counters when the MAJOR damage occurred to this country? Where were they when the recession started in 2007!!! For 8 YEARS people like Florida Lawyer where SILENT!!
Love the black and white, love the belt in this instance, love the bolero in this instance. (Hated the belt and the bolero at Kennedy's funeral...it works here because it is a dress not separates.)
Trust me, I am a died in the wool Democrat. Never voted in my 63 years (42 years of faithful voting) any other way.
So please give me the space to say that the lawyer in Florida deserves her say. I happen to agree with her that chasing the Olympics so blatantly seemed a rather trivial, almost tawdry, use of the President's capital when so many other issues like health care and Afghanistan hang in delicate balance. I also agree with Florida lawyer that Mrs O's yellow silk dress and cardigan had a an Easter Sunday feeling about them. I disagree that Jill Biden looks great all the time. (sometimes she looks kind of messy and sometimes she looks good). And finally, I am still recovering from my personal shock and awe over how sensational Mrs. O looked in the 3-brooch adorned evening dress. Everything worked: the color, the cut of the dress, the length, the hair, the accessories. I wish she had worn that on Inauguration night.
Dress Length: I think Mrs. O should go for the short. I'm 63. My shirts are almost always 1" above top of my knee cap unless wearing high boots in which case I don't like to see so much knee. Speaking of boots: we haven't seen them much on Mrs O.
Sorry, but the large check makes her hips look HUGE.
"People saying the president should have stayed home are just looking for an excuse to bash"
I don't think this is necessarily true. Honest people can disagree without bad motives.
@That other Mimi
But how do you know that Florida Lawyer was silent? I don't remember hearing you during those long 8 years either. Unless you keep records and logs of all the websites you posted on HAHAHA.
This dress is to die for. I love everything about it. I keep coming back to look at it adoringly. Pathetic I know. Maybe it does make her hips look a little big but all in all it really works for her.
@Christen, You dont have to be "Psychiatrist" to know when a person is projecting their shortcomings into others! confident, self aware individuals dont find it necessary to demean others in order to make themselves feel better. Such things are self evident, it doesnt take a genius to figure out. or maybe for some people it does! ooh well.
Anyone know, when we can look forward to more fashions from MrsO! my girl LeahD is always on the case....LOL
Florida Lawyer, thank you. I cannot understand why people who disagree with Florida Lawyer call her names. Isn't this supposed to be a site where people can give their opinions? I think we should all be kind and respectful of the opinions of everyone.
I personally loved the lemon chiffon dress in Copenhagan, but I agree that it was out of place for the occasion and this time of year. If you look at the photos, Mrs. O stood out in every picture because she was the only person wearing such colors and dresses. There is a time and place to be a "stand out", but maybe at this particular function, it would have been better to not look like you're trying to "stand out". Even the Queen of Denmark wore a conservative suit.
People listen more to what you say when your clothes don't grab so much attention. Sometimes when a person's clothes are so bold, you don't hear a word they say.
My comments may not be allowed here, but I'd like to say that I lived for 13 years in France and Germany, and I feel that I know A LOT MORE about how to dress there than some Americansdo.
Since when is someone who disagrees with a particular fashion that the FLOTUS wears, a hate-monger?????
Good grief! This is all about opinions about fashion. I'm a bit old-fashioned, and like to see dresses on women. I love that about our FLOTUS. I also like to wear my skirts below the knee because my knees are not that pretty.
But if I disagree with some of you about a belt or sleeveless tops or longer skirts, please don't call me a hate-monger.
I love our FLOTUS, and I would never call YOU a hate-monger if you preferred seeing her wearing something that I don't feel is suitable.
Please -- let's not have such cruel labels here.
Sincerely, April
I don't understand the angry responses to Florida lawyer..she was stating her opinion
(some with which I agree) but it's her opinion. I am not going to respond on this blog anymore because the responses tend to get stupid and vicious ..it's like being in jr. high school again. bye-bye small minds!
There are a million sites on the web where one can go to hear hatred of the Obamas. I don't really feel like seeing this site become yet another one, but with the hatred disguised as fashion commentary. And yes, Christen, one can really tell political comments/hatred from honest disagreement about clothing.
Does some out there really believe the Olympic committee said "Oh wow! I was so ready to give the bid to Chicago...but that dress that the first lady is wearing is soo inappropriate. I change my mind." That is a strange and bizarre line of thinking. It's giving Michelle Obama, Michael Kors, and a cardigan waaay too much power, don't you think?
But it's an interesting box that some haters of the Obamas put themselves in. On the one hand, the Obamas are the ugliest, awfulest, stupidest, most communist-muslim-America-hating people on the planet. But on the other hand, these awful stupid people are somehow so powerful that they can change the opinion of the world by making a short trip to Denmark, or by wearing a pair of shorts. America "deserved to lose" the bid because MO wore a dress you don't like. Right.
It's a crazy balancing act. It's sad, and obscures the voices of people who voice honest opposition but don't feel like they have to tear others down in petty ways to make their points. But then, hatred does tend to be illogical.
I'm taking a break, friends. See you around!
I hear you, that other Mimi! President GW Bush traveled to Bejing on the taxpayer's dime just to sit on his butt for four days and WATCH the Olympics. Maybe he got some work done while he was there (we can only hope so), but I didn't hear anybody bashing him at the time. President Obama would've gotten slammed in some quarters no matter what he did, as usual. All the other bid countries' leaders were there, so it was fitting that he should be, too.
And as a Chicagoan who has met him a number of times in a professional capacity and observed him behind the scenes, I've always thought he was a compassionate, smart, stand-up guy. I bet he laughs like crazy at all of this "socialist" malarkey.
By the way, I'm one Chicagoan who's glad the Olympics didn't come here. I will enjoy watching it on TV from Rio, knowing that I didn't have to endure 7 years of construction, noise, dust, congestion, resources drained from other deserving non-profits, and probable higher taxes. Sure, it would have been an exciting party, but c'est la vie, huh?
Anyway, this blog is on Mrs. O's FASHION, and I've been enjoying it, and her, a lot. I love the chances she takes. I love that she has so much fun with her clothes and is comfortable in her skin. I love that she's not stick-thin. I love that she does what she wants and evidently doesn't care what anybody else thinks. I think she's a fabulous role model, and not just because of what she wears.
Thanks, Mrs. T, for this fun blog.
Another stunner, isn't it?
And... ugh... who are these people who showed up today? Let me guess -- they've also left comments elsewhere saying the president shouldn't have represented us (though all the other contending countries were represented by their president and/or royalty) Ugh. Go away. Byzantine politics of the IOC is too complicated for them and they know not of what they shriek!
Robin Givhan's latest Washington Post story on Mrs. O reveals how utterly charmed everyone in Copenhagen was by her. How moved they were by her address. "First Lady's Olympian Effort Falls Short -- But Her Impassioned Appeal Earns Plaudits"
Don't be fooled by the IOC balloting: President & Mrs. O are very popular on the international stage.
Not to be a comment hog or anything, but this is my take on the thoughtful & charming clothes Mrs. O wore to Copenhagen & what I think others there represented to the IOC & the world:
Mrs. O is the American heart: Charming & welcoming & soulful.
President 0: our power & intellect.
Oprah & other Chicago power-brokers: Windy City midwestern charm & can-do spirit.
And those wearing the Maria Pinto designed Chicago bid staff suits: our ability to make things work. With bells on.
HAPPY 17th ANNIVERSARY.........May I be so BOLD and say from all of us here on this site who LOVE you sooooo much......we raise our glasses in toast to you,....Mrs.O and President Obama, may you enjoy many, many more years of marital bliss.
Thank you for being an inspiration to us.
I hope your celebration will be private that we can only imagine what you wore.
God Bless you always.
Roxane, before I even read your post I was thinking the same thing about Florida Lawyer.....is she a Republican???? Really, Florida Lawyer. You must not win a lot of your cases. Your comments about the Copenhagen outfit were so off the mark they were laughable. To the others who are hating on the FLOTUS AND POTUS, we are getting back to fashion and bid YOU a hearty farewell!
I would encourage those of us regular readers who are bottom heavy to consider the bolero. I never thought it would work but it does. I think the "roundness" of the shape mirrors the roundness of the hips and then if you cinch in at the waist: voila! The much coveted hourglass shape emerges!
I love this look. She did it right - the belt looks good with the cardigan, which balances her out. The black on top draws the eye up and takes some focus off the hips. The 3/4 sleeve is her best look in a sweater or blouse or jacket. She looks classy, fresh, energetic....you could stick her on any street in Paris, London or Milan and heads would turn. This is defineitly a winner - belt included - LOL!
Hoping for more black and white ensembles.
Desertwind @ 2:34 -
I liked your comment, and I like the comments of all who contribute with restraint and respect.
Although I often admire Mrs. Obama's bold fashion choices, I understand that some may have found the gold/cognac dress to be a little too much. It is possible to hold that opinion without being a "hater". However, if that opinion is given in a negative or nasty tone, it raises the hackles of readers, and we see the result on this thread.
Any claim that Mrs. O's wardrobe determined the outcome of the committee vote seems designed to attract a backlash.
If we are looking to lay blame for the committee's decision, this may be part of the problem.
Bush Administration's Visa Policy Too Cumbersome
I am disgusted and dismayed by some of the hateful and racist comments posted on this site. From the beginning it was a fun experience to see what Mrs O was wearing and to comment on her attire. Some "posters" have taken it upon themselves to express vicious and derogatory comments on Mrs.O's character and appearance. I wish there could be more clearance on the site to ensure that it remains a dialogue on Mrs O's wardrobe choices. There are plenty of other outlets, I am sure, where the people with political grudges can air their feelings. For this site, I am pleased to have a forum where I can say 'I think she looks fabulous in this or that" She did look incredibly beautiful at the Black Caucus Event and also at the Hispanic Cultural Celebration. Her Arrival outfit for Copenhagen was also tasteful and beautiful. Many of her other choices have been unfortunate-not flattering and not particularly appropriate for the season or the occasion.I would like to continue visiting this site, but will cease if hateful and racist remarks are aired.
The posts on this blog over the past 2 days have been disgusting. I wish all of you so-called "opinionists" would go elsewhere. You drive away the people who enjoy giving level -headed commentary, and you act like a bunch of 7th graders.
That's you, Florida Lawyer ( I would hate to be your client) and all the rest of you who act like your 1st amendment rights are being violated.
And yes, Christian, you can tell who is nuts on this blog without being a shrink.
Christina, please don't be gone for long!
Mrs. O is rocking a sexy backless dress for her man of 17 years as they head out on a date for their anniversay!!
Here's the first photo!
http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/slideshow/photo//091004/480/364291ec2acc44a280d379f708d5108d/
New Photo is up on Yahoo....
President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama, walk to the Blueduck Tavern, in West End area of Washington, Saturday, Oct 3, 2009. The first couple is celebrating their seventeenth wedding anniversary.
http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/Michelle-Obama/ss/events/pl/050108michelleobama;_ylt=AqMEc21_jPSvGXNEURbArMkKO7gF
Michelle wore a black backless dress.
@Christen are your Florida lawayer and pinky. I suspect you are!
Thanks Leah. Nice. I guess Mrs O is still wearing what she wants to wear. Not bad at all.
Casual Reader and April, I agree with your well-thought-out comments. A difference of opinion is not welcome on this site, but I will continue to say what I think, because that is my right, as it is the right of others.
Christina, I have always been a fan of yours, and I am truly sorry that the feeling was never reciprocated. I will NEVER believe that you can tell what is in a person's heart by what they write. How often are E-mails and the like misconstrued? Many people on this site seem to be just waiting to strike when a difference of opinion is offered, no matter how small. They are quick to label others, when in truth they are just labeling themselves as intolerant, small-minded and petty. And yes, it is possible to like the person, but not care for some of that person's fashion choices.
I grow weary of repeat commenters who really have nothing to say. Maybe there should be a daily limit or quota of some kind...what a concept!
Casual Reader and April, I agree with your well-thought-out comments. A difference of opinion is not welcome on this site, but I will continue to say what I think, because that is my right, as it is the right of others.
Christina, I have always been a fan of yours, and I am truly sorry that the feeling was never reciprocated. I will NEVER believe that you can tell what is in a person's heart by what they write. How often are E-mails and the like misconstrued? Many people on this site seem to be just waiting to strike when a difference of opinion is offered, no matter how small. They are quick to label others, when in truth they are just labeling themselves as intolerant, small-minded and petty. And yes, it is possible to like the person, but not care for some of that person's fashion choices.
I grow weary of repeat commenters who really have nothing to say. Maybe there should be a daily limit or quota of some kind...what a concept!
Her black halter dinner look tonight was very good. Very smart.
Note the length and how elegant it looks:
http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/085N3wXaFf4bq/610x.jpg
Now compare the black and white dress, which is admittedly more casual:
http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/06GS2wOdcBfQx/610x.jpg
I rest my case.
Leah D - thanks for the link.
I'd like to know what this woman puts on her skin. I have the same dark complexion, and while I am diligent in my moisturizing, my skin does not *shine* like that. Some kind of oil perhaps . . .?
Christina:
Are you really this unaware or do you just pretend to be? Do you really think what one wears is so inconsequential? Would you go to a job interview in a sequin dress? Not to say that is what Mrs O was wearing, but let us not be so loyal that we diminish the power of appearance and words in today's world. Right or wrong, they do carry a weight and oversimplifying or trivializing it like you and many others on this blog seem to do in your posts only do a disservice to Mrs. O.
Too, too funny to read some of the defenders of the trolls and their effusive support of their "opinions". People like Christen, Kbarch and other "dyed in the wool democrats" whose dubious reputations precede them really think they can convince anyone or argue with a straight face in defense of the influx of negative unregistered posters disrespectingFirst Lady Michelle Obama and actually expect us oldtimers to buy the seriously counterfeit goods and sentiments they're pushing.
Like others here have so eloquently stated, a person has got to be seriously sick to keep visiting and commenting on and about a woman they do not like. If Mrs O is no icon, then pray tell what you doest here?
Christina, please do not go. That is exactly the MO of these sadistic invaders. They want to drive people like you away, take over this site so they can argue that even Mrs O supporters have turned against the Obama's. Do not let them turn you off.
Meanwhile, Mrs Obama is super sizzling hot, super sexy classy elegant in that halter neck black number she wore for their anniversary dinner date!! ROCK ON MRS OBAMA! ROCK ON YOU SUPERSTAR YOU!!! Woo-hoo!!
LOTA: I had no idea you could see my face, and I suppose that you can read my mind as well!? I would really like to know just when I have defended ANYONE who has "disrespected" Mrs. O. You really need to get over your self-righteous indignation about absolutely NOTHING! It's becoming very dull and repetitive.
Wow! Love how they love each other.Happy Anniversary President and First Lady! Naysayers, get over yourselves. The President went, so what? He wasn't setting a precedent(except in the U.S). Besides, he only spent about 4-5 hours on the ground. Did you know, he also met with an Army General aboard Airforce 1 to discuss Afghanistan, and visited with the Danish Royalty (Denmark's a strong U.S. ally) Btw, Tony Blair and Vladimir Putin both personally travelled to secure the bids for their respective nations. And as The First Lady herself stated in an interview when asked what would happen if she travelled to Copenhagen and Chicago still lost it's bid; her answer,"You are darned if you do and darned if you don't, I'd rather be on the side that does." So , just looking at them in this picture, they are confident that they gave it their all. Plus, I thought it was the job of the President to protect the interests of his nation.Just imagine all that income that will now flow into Rio and all those jobs not to mention the lasting infrastructure. Some Chicagoans may complain about the inconviniences, but really that is trivial compared to the job the President has cut out for him namely creating more jobs.
@ Yuriko, I live in Japan, and trust me no-one here is bashing the new Prime Minister for making the trip, instead the media is praising the teamwork demonstrated by their entire delegation.And since when were the Olympics evil or something to be ashamed of?
Couldn't have said it better Joss, thank you. Welcome to this surreal play by play of the new temporary rules for United States presidents and only with regard to the presidency of one Barack Obama. "Yuriko" is actually a troll who will undoubtedly reappear in no time under some other alias to continue the mischief making so no need to engage. You totally nailed it Lota! Tsetse, what a beautiful toast and I join you in raising a glass to this awesome couple. She looks really amazing in that black backless dress and the President looks mighty proud of his wife. My oh my!!
My first posting :)
I must admit I'm loving the two outfits... the black and white one and the anniversary one. To be completely honest, I love just about anything Mrs. O wears... as long as it's daring. She's always appropriate, so no cause for compliant on that front.
The only times I've been disappointed in her style choices is when she dresses too conservatively (which doesn't happen often). Even the "conservative" look she wore to the joint session of congress made me smile. Its like she's humoring us with her choices.
I hope she doesn't back down, at the end of the Obamas tenure in the White House.... I hope she still conveys a message that women should wear what they want. That we should not conform to stereotypes that others wish to inflict on our persons. That we as Americans are proud to be individuals and we should embrace individuality in others; whether it be fashion, cultural backgrounds, or body types.
It would be a sad day in American history if all women gave up their individuality and decided to wear "the standard suit".
I'm loving the black and white look. I love the fact that Michelle wears what she enjoys and what she clearly feels comfortable in although,I must say that I disagree with those who say that she should wear suits more often. Suits are often safe and boring. I give Michelle credit for mixing colours and textures with bold jewellry and belts.
I am a fierce Michelle Obama fan and I'm not even American but I admire her for knocking down all the negative sterotypes about African American women. But I can't help but think that some of the Michelle fans will attack others for having an opinion that is far removed from the rest of us with our "ooohing and aaahing".
I have come across numerous sites who tear down EVERYTHING about the Obama's and the use of language is full or racism, scorn and hate. If those people choose to waste their time visiting these sites and pouring scorn on a wonderful woman such a Michelle, well that's their choice. How silly to hate someone and waste your valuable time saying nasty things when Michelle in fairness has never met them in her life.
Ladies, Michelle is having the time of her life. She has already gone down in history. She's married to the most powerful man in the world. She's been married for 17 glorious years. She has staff at her beck and call. She has date nights all over the world and has designers falling at her feet. For some people who can only wish for her lifestyle, it is only natural to feel a little envious. So I close by saying to the haters - get a life but to the others I say lets all celebrate our differences of opinion without fighting. Those people who resent her fashion choice and resent her going to Copenhagen are the same people who resent her being in the White House but I don't think all of them are haters.
Thank you too, Camille. Welcome AppleGirl and may we never live to see that day! Caravan's moving on to toast this hardworking First Couple!
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1218026/Barack-Michelle-Obama-romantic-meal-celebrate-17th-wedding-anniversary.html
Date Night !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have followed this site and read many a blog...Mrs O sometimes have to attend several events in a couple of hours...so maybe her choices are formed by such....appropriateness is subjective...we all don't have the facts....so simply enjoy the FLOTUS fashion and see it as an inpiration, for God knows, we all need some..few things like bold, bright and contrasting colours awaken the senses and give hope for a better day....cheers!
@ Mara:
"Christina:
Are you really this unaware or do you just pretend to be? ...."
Yes, Mara, I actually *do* believe that on this occasion, Mrs. O wearing a gold-colored dress, with its clear evocation of the Olympics and "going for the gold," was inconsequential to the United States' chance of getting the Olympic bid. My post was in response to that implication. I don't think I can state it more plainly.
I'm not "defending" the dress, I'm not saying that you or anyone else had to like it, I really don't care that much what others think of it. But I do not believe for a second that the U.S.'s chances were hurt (or for that matter, helped) by color of the dress that Mrs. O wore, and that she wore a sweater over it. I do not believe the U.S. "deserved to lose" because she wore a gold colored dress, and a matching cardigan. Or because it had a flap in the front that maybe you or others didn't like. I don't believe that *most* people are that shallow to make that kind of decision based on issues of style. (Obviously, some people on this board would be that shallow, but that's their business.)
Deciding where to hold the Olympics is based on many hundreds of factors other than a personal appeal from Michelle Obama. Clearly, some people think that the first and only time the Olympic committee heard from the U.S., and the only thing the committee considered, is what Michelle Obama chose to wear a few days ago. Not only that, but because some people over here didn't like the dress, the Olympic committee must also have not liked it. (But what if they loved the dress, and her? I've heard she was quite a hit in Denmark. No need to let facts get in the way of a good narrative, though)
Your "sequined dress to a job interview" question doesn't seem to apply here, because it wasn't a job interview, and I personally don't think that the dress was so stylistically out of step for the occasion. But that's a matter of opinion, and so I don't expect to be able to "prove" that I'm right, but I'm not expecting to be told I'm "wrong," either.
Does this answer your question?
JESTINA - You got that right!!
I love MO, and her clothes. I like BO and voted for him as did most of Austin. And guess what? I am a centrist from Texas, and don't care for W. But I realize that any POTUS will get the same old kick in the teeth from Europe. All the complete sentences in the the world won't change the the fact that Post-Christian-Europe is out to do NO heavy lifting in the world. They would rather be murdered by thugs in Brasil than appear to pander to the United States(in Denmark). WHy call names just because one lady doesn't like little cardigans? That's extreme.
I've been following this site for a while now. I don't remember ever seeing a positive comment by Mara. Christen's are mostly negative, with a sort-of-positive one thrown in for a good measure every once in a while (e.g. "her dress sucks but her hair and makeup are on point...")
Like others said before: why come and post if you have nothing nice to say? It's not good for the soul.
The comment about the dress being responsible for the loss of the US Olympic bid is about the most ridiculous comment ever made about fashion. For her sake, I hope Florida lawyer does not really believe it. Otherwise, that must be a nightmarish life.
Fashion makes our lives brighter and more creative. It can be a tool for democracy, advocacy, etc, it can be used in great ways. But as Miucca Prada said, it is too often taken too seriously. (She then took a skirt and cut the hem deliberately unevenly). Let's keep the perspective. Otherwise, we're lost.
JULIE: You are not even funny. What a stupid remark.
COSMIC_RAY: Just what planet do you spend most of your time on? I have NEVER used the word "sucked" or the term "on point," which I consider ridiculous. Just like so many others, you need to REALLY read my posts and stop letting others inflame you into making comments that are entirely untrue.
PO did not do anything wrong. Nothing wrong with Chicago. The world is a BIG place. Rio was the natural choice. My advice is, save some money, travel abroad, see and listen. You will be surprised and delighted. You will see what you are missing on. Go. Enjoy,
And let Michelle wear whatever she likes, you can tell she could care less about what people think. Do the same.
Isn't this site supposed to be about fashion, and in particular about Michelle Obama's fashion choices?
Why all the talk about haters and on the other and, on the other hand, blind adoration? C'mon this is supposed to be entertaining.
I really want to give up visiting this site. Frankly it seems a huge waste of my time. But something seems tugging me back. Diversity of opinion and spirited debate are stimulating. Finger pointing is not.
So, can't we dial it down a bit? Lay off the Florida lawyer. Personally, I would rather have her in the tent than out of it.
You are correct Cosmic_ray. It is even funnier when they prance around this blog insisting that their insulting and disrespectful comments are much needed contrary opinion to prevent this blog from being "boring". They must really think that we all fell off turnip trucks. I have been a regular on this blog forever and have read posts from other early regulars such as Posh, Willow, Christina, where they aren't loving a particular outfit. But then it is conveyed lightly and from a good place and we all move on. No problem. That is distinctly different from the backhanded, underhanded and downright disrespectful commentary from the likes of Christen/mara. This Christen/Mara/Pinky/kbarch person is the most severely disturbed of the lot. It must be an awfully pitiful and lonely life to be this unpleasant. What a wretched existence.
LOTA: I have NEVER made a disrespectful comment about Mrs. O., and if you think I am actually four different people, you need serious help. If you can't quote me accurately and fairly, just shut up.
Lota, I appreciate your kind words, but, I don't think it's helpful to call out posters by name, or try to read their minds. I don't like it if I'm being accused of blind adoration; I don't see why anyone else should like it if they've being accused of being a "hater" because they don't like a cardigan. This is really, really silly.
These threads would be fine if we could just deal with what's in front of us, instead of constantly being on the attack or on the defense. I had a disagreement with Mara, above, but I was able to address that without accusing her of anything, and she was able to address me without accusing me of anything. We disagree. On to the next thing. There are people who post TRULY HATEFUL things here -- saying that you don't like the length of a skirt doesn't compare to stuff that I've seen here that Mrs. T ends up having to delete.