Kate Spade City Lights Lillith Skirt

Kate Spade City Lights Lillith skirt (on sale in another colorway here)

I fell in love with this skirt last summer when it was launched on the Kate Spade website. But like most Kate Spade garments, it was way too expensive. So I waited patiently and gave myself time to determine how badly I wanted it. Although the skirt is printed and unique (and I already have a few printed skirts), I figured it could be versatile due to an otherwise neutral color palette. And it could be dressed up for a party or down for work. Eventually I was able to make the markdowns suit my budget in conjunction with a coupon (signing up for emails generates a one-time-use, % off code).

The problem with shopping the sale section of the Kate Spade website is that items bought for more than half off become final sale. I hate final sale and usually wind up tracking down pieces from other retailers or via ebay. When you don't have the chance to try something on before buying it, final sale becomes especially dangerous. But I couldn't find this skirt anywhere else. So I did a bit of sizing research and decided to purchase it in an 8 (which is my typical dress size for this brand). It seemed to work out well. The cotton linen fabric is substantial and the skirt is lined. It comes with a matching black belt and has pockets along the side seams. The length goes to the knee on me which I appreciate. But it is very full. I think that the pleating on a fabric this heavy adds unwanted bulk to an already curvy lower half. I'm sure this would deter many from buying it. I wear full skirts often so I was not bothered by it. I snapped these photos when the skirt arrived. I considered wearing it to the academic conference where I was presenting that week. But ended up going with my suit separates instead. More on that tomorrow!

I know there will always be another skirt, another print, another garment. I already find myself admiring this printed tote and the umbrella that matches my skirt. But the good thing about sale stalking is that you give yourself the time and space to mull over purchases. Shopping sales this way rather than with impulses induced by sale goggles seems wiser on the whole. I hope to wear this skirt many times over the holidays. And I am pleased with the purchase.