STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

collette - i'm the same way. the shrug and gaucho thing looks a little obiwon kanobe on me. i usually wear mine with a long sleeve shirt or denim jacket. i think the idea that the lines on top are form fitting and streamed lined since the pant is so billowy.

but i need more ideas too.

If yours are black, I think a black and white striped tee would look really cool with some gold bangles and hoops and espadrilles.

Sounds as though your budget can handle a bit more expense than mine, but I found a great pair of gauchos at Forever 21 for under $20.  I tend to think of that store as a great place to get disposable fashion.  Yes, the things will fall apart after a few months, but generally that's how fast the trend is over anyhow. 

So if you are not sure about them, that's a good starting off point.

The one thing I cannot stress enough is please DON'T wear them with empire waist tops...so bad!  The flowiness of the pant REALLY NEEDS something more fitted and structured on top.  And if you go with empire waist, it ends up giving you a no waist, no figure look.

If tanks and cropped cardigans are not a good look for you, try a fitted blouse with a great wide belt at the hips.  Or a sheer blouse over a camisole...I have one pretty loose, billowy top with dolman(sp?) sleeves in an exotic print that I've worn with a white cami underneath.  Pair it with some strappy stillelotos for the evening.

I hate to post another pic of myself, but I think it helps people get the idea better.  Or at least it always helps me when I can see the outfit on someone.  Here's a couple ways I've worn them.