Angie, just wondering about the banded tops. Can you supply some links to flattering ones? I have a large chest, can I still wear them? I have a belly too so I like the concept.

I definitely agree with you about the lack of cute 2 inch heels. I’m 6′ tall and not afraid to wear heels, but I have my limits and the sky high heels are just way too tall.

These are always fun discussions. I don’t have much to add, because I haven’t really been shopping much this season, even window shopping. I know I can’t afford to buy anything most weeks, so there usually is little point in even looking. But sometimes I get the urge to shop anyway, especially when my husband and I are mall walking.

The dull merchandise has actually been a plus for me; it helps me not want things I can’t afford. That said, it’s kind of sad to not have any fun pieces to add to my spring wish list. I agree on the heels. I love 2-3 inches, but don’t like to go higher. My feet are so small (anywhere from kids 3.5 to adult 5.5) that 4+ inch heels can look painful (and actually be painful). I’d love to see more cotton dresses too, even though I already have plenty of day dresses from last year. I’m looking for some cardis, so I’m glad they are in abundance.

Too bad most stores don’t make those high-rise jeans in juniors sizes. So far Express make the only high-rise jeans that fit me. Love the turquoise! I keep seeing turquoise jewelry and wanting some more. The banded tops don’t thrill me. I’m tired of empire waists and wanting some waist definition. Being petite, most of the bands fall lower on me than on average height girls and hit in the middle of my ribcage anyway

I agree with you about the shoes. I’d like to find something fun and bright to wear with my jeans but everything out there is open-toed, too flat or too tall.

I’m going to be keeping my eye out for a military jacket because I love that style!

Not enough cute tops to wear with my summer skirts. Also, I’m finding it hard to find dresses with sleeves. My arms are in good shape, but I like to pull on a dress for the office without having to find a cardigan to toss over it (I’m bored of the look).

I generally agree with you Angie. The merchandise is dull, and some things can not be found. I am looking for a knitted moto jacket and high waisted white denim pencil skirt, have found nothing so far. I am also looking for a simple pair of nude closed toe leather wedges, have managed to find only one possibility.

The best part so far is definitely all the crazy deals and sales. I also really like the colors this spring, especially the turquoise and purples. Plus, I think that there is a great assortment of graphic tees, waistcoats and beautiful leather moto jackets ( that are sadly too expensive for me). And I did find my long-awaited microcheck pants!

Angie, I agree with you on the shortage of washable cotton dresses. I don’t see anything exciting either. When it comes to shoes, I am okay with the flats and skyscrapers as I am 5′2. I have thongs, flat ballet slippers and 5 inch heels. I figure if I want to feign height, I might as well be as tall as I can be. The comfort factor for me is the platform. I don’t wear stilletoes as I don’t like my feet too close to the ground.

Well, it seems that I will find more jewelry, headbands and scarves to dress up my oldies yet goodies.

Thanks Angie!!!

Hi Angie,
Your rants and raves are the same as mine and I’m in my sixties!! I simply do not see the need to kill myself in those stilettos. I have seen some fashionable short jackets in Nordstrom and even Chicos. You certainly have my vote on daily fashion notes. Keep up the wonderful, wacky writing.

In addition to the beautiful torquoises, I was very pleased on a recent excursion to see loads of gorgeous pinks and purples. Those colors are great for me. I maybe got a little too excited about it and came home with only purple, pink, and black, so next time I’ll have to make sure I got some turquoise or yellow.

I am with you all the way, Angie. Even here in the UK everything is dull, which is surprising because I usually find brands here more fashion-forward than in North America. In terms of shapes and silhouettes, everything is same old, same old- I agree that the retailers are probably playing it safe because of the recession. The shoe problem is pretty much the same here- I have seen a couple 2″ heels around, but nowhere near as many as I’d like.

One thing I am loving is all the green in the shops- I have to stop myself buying it all up before it goes out again;)

I totally agree about the cotton dresses. I would love to add more day dresses to my mom-on-the-go look, but I can’t really find anything suitable in the stores.

I am quite happy with the colors this season because yellow has breathed new life into my wardrobe, but I agree on the general blah feeling of the options out there. The high points for me are the wide array of tunic options for leggings and skinny jeans, the great selection of denim cuts and washes, and the availability of really adorable ballet flat-style shoes in loads of colors.

I did order one summer dress that is washable and has coverage in the right places. The downside is the empire waist, but the cut looks to skim the body so I have high hopes for it!

http://www.bodenusa.com/en-us/.....Dress.html

This is an interesting topic to consider. I haven’t been out shopping much, but when I have I haven’t seen much to tempt. I should be out replacing my low rise pants with a higher rise and adding more turquoise and green items.
Needs are those not-to-be-found cotton dresses and light weight jackets you mention, and I’m still searching for a great graphic tee inspite of all the choices and for a great suit that isn’t black.
The number of wedge heeled shoes out there is encouraging. This may be the year to stock up on this style.

I’m finding the selection of dresses better than most years even though it’s not great– but then I’m on the short side which helps a lot. I’m definitely becoming a banded bottom top addict. This style seems to work for me and so I’m stocking up. I love all of the colors as well although it seems to me there is a lack of yellow footwear available. The sales are definitely nice. I agree that casual jackets are in a shortage but I live in a warm climate so it’s not critical for me. It would be nice to find a short sleeve option.

I have been on a hunt for casual, lightweight jackets since I joined this forum- I can’t believe it’s so hard to find. Have they decided to play it safe with cardis? I would break my “no major purchases until I buy jeans” ban for the right one.

And I think we should do a mass letter writing campaign for the 1-2″ inch heel. Maybe they don’t realize how many women are on the lookout for these heels.

I do love the colors, and everyone’s postings showing green and blues together has inspired me to try these colors for my summer wardrobe and accessories.

Another positive- since prices are so low, this seems to be a good time to revamp a pre-YLF wardrobe. Happy about that! Thanks for helping me know what to spend my pennies on.

I haven’t been shopping much, but the shortage of reasonable washable dresses seems to be a perennial problem here. In the past, I always had better luck with Euro brands in this department. I’ve been seeing maxi dresses everywhere, but I have yet to see someone sporting one on the street… not that the weather has been appropriate. I do need to get out to check all the pretty colors – I am hoping to find something lavender this season.

Right on about the casual spring jackets and cotton dresses!!! I am loving the colors too!

I’m not normally a big shopper, but I need to buy a new size and I’ve been on the look out for everything this year.

I can’t agree more about the jacket situation. I’ve been on the hunt for a nice reasonably-priced jacket (non-athletic, non-blazer, non-belted) with full-length sleeves that could actually keep me warm since last spring, and I just can’t find anything. Why won’t they let us have sleeves anymore? I agree some of the shorter-sleeved jackets are cute and it’s a nice change, but when you need a basic functional (hopefully attractive) jacket, it is very frustrating

I also agree about with the lack of cute shoes. I can’t really wear ballet flats because I need arch support, and I can’t wear stilletos because I walk a lot and have back issues. Where are the cute low-heeled shoes? The only shoe positives for me are the abundance of wedge shoes (not everyone’s favorite, but easier to walk in) and the return of stacked heels.

My final peeve is the over abundance of patent leather. I went bag shopping this weekend, and so many bags were either patent leather or PVC. I’ve also been searching for some cute reasonably-priced wedge slingbacks, and so many of the cutest ones are only in patent leather (at least in black, my default color). I’m a vegetarian and don’t usually buy leather, so when I plan to break down and buy a classic leather bag, I’d like it to still be usable in a few years when the trends change.

And here I thought I was just looking in the wrong places for lightweight jackets! So glad it wasn’t just me.

I am also having no luck finding interesting patterned tops for layering; everything is either too floral or too blousy.

On the shoe front, there is very little that is appropriate for an office and warm weather. Where are the dressy peeptoes? We can’t all wear gladiator sandals all day long!

you are so right about the dearth of summer day dresses. My only requirements are that the dress is washable, is in a material that’s comfortable in the heat (not polyester) and that it comes to my knees. That doesn’t seem unreasonable but I’ve looked and can’t find anything. All the washable cotton dresses are mid-thigh length or maxi. I did find one linen dress (I’d love the right linen dress) but this thing was the shape and color of a paper bag. arggg.

I like the sounds of these rants and raves.

Alison, I’ll post about banded tops soon. It’s definitely a hit or miss style and one’s eye needs to get used to the look again (sounds like Patience has it down). My main message is that you need to TRY the look and various versions of it. You might find a style that you love. We have been brainwashed that an outfit looks best with a definite waistline and yes, it is a flop proof silhouette. But sometimes it’s nice to wear something different especially when it’s breezy, trendy and forgiving. If you’re busty, pay special attention to the neckline – scoop, soft cowl or V is good. You might not find a banded top that does the stylish trick, but at least you tried!

Renee, hear, hear on frocks being overly skimpy. Enough is enough. I love a sleeveless dress but I’d welcome the forever flattering elbow length sleeve any day. I suppose we’ll have to wait till Autumn collections hit stores for those.

Thanks for chiming in from the UK, Ele. That’s very interesting. I haven’t been to Europe yet this year and I’m glad I’m not missing out on anything. Are there lots of bargains available on your side too?

Good point, Sinead. If you can afford to revamp your wardrobe right now, the bargains are unprecedented.

As far as dress selections go, my hope is that it improves as we head for warmer weather. I’m holding thumbs.

I am going to try the banded top and am looking for inexpensive cotton day dresses. I have a shirtdress, but as a rectangle, I’m not sure its the best look for me.

Angie,

SO wierd… most of your rant list is exactly what I have been looking for! Mid-height heels, cotton sundresses, and lightweight jackets. I guess it makes sense now why I am having so much trouble finding this stuff, because it’s just not out there right now!! Though I did find a cute light-weight cropped jacket in white at Forever21 recently.

Oh, and yes… what is with the friggen Maxi explosion?!

Great topic, Angie I agree with you on most of what you have on your list. Spring is so difficult in Boston, It is hard to stay warm and wear anything that has a spring feel to it. Imagine, Easter Sunday is supposed to be 45. What kind of a spring dress could you wear without freezing, and forget about a jacket. It would be great if they had coats that were not wool, not black but warmer than all of those thin spring trench coats that never keep you dry in the rain. Spring clothing is never practical in New England.
Now banded tops, I never liked the look but am willing to try some on. I assume they will not very good but who knows? This forum has helped me try new things and also define what does not work.

Not much so far this season has induced me to buy, despite the sales, which in a way is a good thing. I really like banded style tops but have not been able to find one that looks right (the band always seems to hit me in the wrong place). Luckily I bought a few pairs of 2″ heel sandals on clearance last year but have not found dress shoes in this heel height. I also am having a hard time finding a summer dress that is not a maxi and that is not also too short/too skimpy. I think I will just stick to wearing the tops and skirts I already have.

I so agree with this analysis. Most of what is in the offing right now bores me to tears … but I feel good about that. I can utilize what I have and mix up the accessories. And I, too, am just tickled that the 80s are back. Especially since I was too young and timid to really embrace those outrageous looks the first time!

I agree that clothing is dull right now, but I can’t figure out why. Once in a while I come across something great but not as often as you would think being spring and all. I want to be blown away by fashion right now.

I don’t like the maxi’s either but I suppose for a different reason than you. Mine is “been there done that” What is you fashion aversion to maxi’s?

I am, in a way, glad that there is such a shortage of seductive offerings right now. It helps with the shopping ban. I realized the other day that since I don’t get a chance to go out much anymore, there is no real reason for me to get new clothes, so even when I am tempted, I remind myself that I’d have nowhere to wear them to right now.

I’m having a hard time imagining myself in a banded hem top, even though it sounds like it would be perfect for me, and I have had it on my mind for a while. It seems like one of those things where you have to try an armful on and still might not even come away with one that is flattering because there is so much variation. If I were actually planning to buy one, I might put in the effort, but since I can’t, I decided not to bother. I would certainly be interested in hearing about this in detail, so I at least have SOME idea of how to narrow the pickings down, assuming these will still be stylish when I actually get a money-making job.

Just read what you had to say about maxi’s…agreed . I wore one when I graduated from high school in mid 70’s. The make you look flat chested if your small on top or, sloppy and jiggly if your not. Lack of support is not flattering on anyone!

Hi Angie, these topics are my fav. I, too, need schooling on what a banded top is. Tube top? Like others, I haven’t been shopping much. The few times I’ve looked, was not inspired to buy. I was thinking, since I’ve gained weight, that dresses would be an option…but by reading this doesn’t sound too promising. Totally agree on the heel heights and casual jackets. I like Sinead’s idea of a mass letter writing campaign about heel (hell) heights. Would also add to that campaign tops that are long enough and pants that have high waist and long inseam. I’m 46–I don’t want to expose my mid-driff at work or anywhere other than the shower thank you very much!

BTW, I anticipate that we will see things get a lot duller yet. Even though I am on a shopping ban myself, I still feel insulated from the fact that the vast majority of people are just not shopping right now. Being on YLF makes me think everyone out there is shopping but me! I’m glad the ladies of YLF are holding up the economy, in any case

I think we should be prepared to see more and more basics, and fewer color options, because those are the things people will be shopping for in a recession, and it would be wasteful to manufacture lots of colors and trendy pieces that no one is going to buy. I personally prefer getting trendy items myself as a pick-me-up, but that is just not the widely held opinion and I can understand why. Most people don’t use shopping as a pick-me-up or for fun when times are bad. They buy what they need when they need it, and what people think they “need” is going to become more and more basic as the economy continues to plummet. Luckily all of these basics and boring colors can be jazzed up with the many cheap accessories that are out right now!

You are right on, Angie, with what we’re seeing out there! I did just come off of a successful weekend shopping jaunt, but it took ten hours! Lots of nice prints and colors on the dresses, but hardly any in a comfy, washable cotton!

I love flats and I love high heels (comfy, sadly expensive ones) but I NEED 1-2 inch heels that I can wear all day. Where are they? I’m on the hunt for some cute wedges but have seen nothing really new.

It seems like things will just take a bit more work. The prices, though, are definitely causing me to want to spend, spend, spend! Repeat visit to this site always remind me to only spend when worth it!

I love the colors of this season. Yellow, green, turquoise are wonderful. Lots of great belts! I seem to have gone graphic print crazy last two years looking at my purchases. Oh, and I love the colorblock trend! Bangles are not for work for me with all day long typing, but I love the edge they bring to different looks. This is definitely the year to stock up on simple cardigans. I agree with everyone that shoes are not that inspiring this year. I don’t like majority of the tribal collection… although there are some I like.

Yes I agree. I was hoping to find new exciting things too but haven’t so have decided to go with safari and tribal and pretend they are new. The 80s neon stuff is fun too.

Just chiming in to say that the cotton dress shortage is the biggest problem I am having right now. I actually posted a question regarding this in the forum, because all I could find was super duper low or way too short. With chasing 5 kids, I need more coverage than that….I can’t be flashing everyone every time I bend over to tie a shoe!
If anyone finds wonderful cotton dresses, please be sure to share! I don’t want to head into summer without at least a couple!
Blessings,
JoyAlison

I agree with almost all of your rants and raves. Went into a few stores yesterday and felt the shelves were lean (if they are getting in one size run then it can get picked through pretty quick) and didn’t find much outside of accessories.
I do disagree on the 80’s comeback though – I just look at the teenagers wearing those styles and have bad flashbacks lol.

I was a little shocked when I went to the mall last night I have to say. I walked in Talbot’s where I frequent all too often & the girl that usually works there about attacked me telling me about things that are on sale 2x. She’s never done this before…it was a real turn off! I also witnessed another customer walking out of Brighton’s shaking her head & I can only guess the same thing happened considering the face she had & was rolling her eye’s. Could be wrong but just a guess.

I’m having a tough time finding pattern knit tops (rayon/spandex) as well. I keep and keep and keep looking and trying. And yes, the 2″ heels are always hard to find! Of course I like the simple classic stuff but I keep going in my local AT yearning for some color & pattern and it seems very sparse! Luckily, ATL has a good selection still I think.

I am totally addicted to the banded top style. I was resistant at first, so I bought one for maybe $15 at Forever 21 to try it out. It was so comfortable and forgiving, but still stylish, I was hooked. I’m stocking up on them when i find them at a good price, so I hope they stick around for a while. I’m also hoping that they will work as early pregnancy maternity tops if I have kids in the next few years because they are so forgiving. Definitely a great choice for thanksgiving dinner attire!

I completely agree about the summer dresses. I have been on a mission over the last two years, but I’m 5′9″ and everything is WAY too short. I think it is because the leggings style is so popular right now, they are trying to make them universally appealing as a tunic and a mini-dress. I hand wash dry clean only clothes, so I don’t even care about the fabric and I still can’t find anything. I’ve decided my only option may be to shop the maxi dresses and hem them to the right length.

As for the eighties styles, I’m a little worried. I started high school in 91, so I think that giving up my eighties garb was part of my growing up process and I just associate it with being 12 years old. I just don’t think I can wear stirrup pants and dayglo tops again, but I do enjoy the influence showing up in the banded tops, bangles and skinny jeans. I’ll even try the plain leggings just so I can wear some of the crazy short dresses out there, but neon yellow anything and hot pink lace leggings (just saw them at the mall yesterday) are going to stay in my past.

I agree with everything you listed Angie.
At the moment (in fact, this has been going on for a few seasons now, grrrr), my two biggest pet peeves are:
- a shortage of colourful trench coats with some fun and funky details. It’s black and beige everywhere you look, quite depressing
- practically no skirts and dresses to be found that hit me at the knee (I’m 5′8″, not so super tall!)

Other things I’ve noticed in the shops here (Belgium):
- mostly plain looking one and two inch heeled- shoes (not all that many options to start with) and loads of high, pointy heeled pumps
- lots of shoes with ankle straps
- some turquoise and green items (I’d love to see more), tomato red is everywhere, yellow is popping up too, quite a lot of darker colours for Summer as well
- very limited choice in casual and dressy jackets
- tons of regular (quite boxy) tees, not too many knitted and woven tops
- a very good selection of affordable Summer scarves and fashion jewellery
- finally some brighter coloured Converse sneakers
- heaps of floral prints, and some geometrical ones too

I’m a little envious of all the super bargains to be had in your neck of the woods. Discounts are still very rare over here (Benetton had 30% on selected items). I’d almost say it’s the opposite: merchandise has been getting more expensive over the last few seasons (even in the more affordable shops like Esprit, Mexx, InWear, etc.). It doesn’t seem to make sense.

Amy, I’m a banded top fan too and I’m trying to encourage more people to wear the look.

Thanks for reporting from Belgium, Inge. I can’t believe that there is a small selection of blouses and knitted tops in your neck of the woods. Crazy!

I don’t live in America and I quite agree with you. This season seems a bit dull, and as you say, there is a shortage of cute knee length summer dresses (but maxi dresses everywhere; such a strange trend). So far I haven’t been able to find a nice pair of sandals with medium heels either, which is normally something that’s very easy to find this time of year.

But the itmes here are also very quickly marked down 50-70% in many shops, so I guess we shouldn’t complain too much .

I haven’t found much to buy in London lately. There is quite alot of purple, magenta and hot pink around. I have seen several people in bright coloured tights, which is a nice way of wearing some new season colour without freezing.

Also looking for a lighter coat, something coloured, not wool and not belted, but there isn’t much about. A velvet jacket would do if I could find one that was bust friendly. There are mountains of cardigans which are different and cool, lots of short sleeved ones especially.
There isn’t many sandals in the shops so far, but like Inge, I have noticed lots of shoes with ankle straps, which I love but the heels are higher than I would actually wear.
The dress situation is the same as others have said – short dresses to wear over leggings or maxi dresses. Some of my work colleagues wear the tunic dress and leggings combo very well with knee boots. So they are making the most of their dresses before the weather gets too warm for boots!