It's not often that I get an item of clothing in my head and actively set out on a hunt for it; I'm usually a browse-and-see-what-I-like kind of shopper. But I've been wearing vests religiously these days, for two reasons 1) I'm leaning towards simpler cuts and fabrics, and the number of things in my wardrobe that actually fit me is dwindling, so a vest adds style points to a basic look, and 2) They give me a little added coverage if I'm feeling a little less than look-at-me on a given day (and an 8-months-pregnant stomach can make you feel very look-at-me indeed).

Anyway, I got it in my head that I wanted a green, rugged-ish vest, but was a little specific about it: I wanted it to be long, look good open (in other words, not have that weird hourglass shape that vests that are cinched at the waist and meant to be worn buttoned can get), be lightweight, and be less-than-a-fortune.

Then I was in Old Navy the other day buying tiny striped leggings with ruffled butts (yaaaaa), and:

Q. I was wondering if I could ask your opinion on what to wear for an engagement shoot. We're going to be taking photos in a nearby park, and are a casual couple who appreciates comfort.

- Stacy

A. Congratulations!

My feeling about engagement shoots is that most important thing is that you a) look like yourselves, and b) have fun. What that means: simple pieces that you’re all comfortable in, and that feel like things you’d actually wear not just for a photo, but in “real life”, as it were. That said, feel free to dress up a little - a light, romantic dress is perfect for an engagement photo shoot.

One of my favorite-ever finds for our son: this tie-dyed tee from MimiMade Designs, purchased for just $5 at a local street fair last weekend (also available online; just contact her and she'll custom-make one for you).

I want him to never, ever grow out of it. (Of course, by the time he does I'll have someone all ready and waiting to hand it down to, and nothing ages quite as well as a good tie-dyed tee.)