https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 10 Jun 2026 00:17:13 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration/page/2#post-90022 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:19:35 +0000 Dawn 90022@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kari, I'm sorry I missed this thread in the last week. Work and my social life have been absolutely mental.</p> <p>You definitely need to set yourself some goals and I think with the C25K program, you'll have some sort of structure in your life, motivating yourself to leave the house and get fitter. Would you consider also signing up for a class maybe, like yoga or even a skills class like writing or photography or enter a doggie skills class with Shadow?</p> <p>In university, I generally have very few structured hours of lectures and tutorials so much of my time is time that I have to decide what to do... and I find that this frequently leaves me in a major funk, especially as I like to study at home rather than in a library. So last semester, I set myself the goal (you ladies are going to laugh at this) to actually leave the house for something other than food once a day, even if it was a five minutes walk to the library to return a book... Yep, that's how bad I was.</p> <p>So maybe you need to set yourself a goal like this: Do something everyday... </p> <p>Actually, would you consider volunteering? I'm sure there are plenty of charities that need your time and skills.</p> <p>Sending lots of love and hugs your way! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration/page/2#post-90004 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 05:28:29 +0000 RoseandJoan 90004@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I know it is not the same situation, but when I was on maternity leave with DD1, I would plan my day around tasks (cleaning the bathroom, paying bills in town) and rewards ( a reward of a cup of tea and biscuit for cleaning the bathroom or a bubble bath for the two mile walk paying the bills endured). I'm glad to see you have found new motivation after reading the posts, but I think you should also remember to reward yourself for your efforts.</p> <p>With regards to shopping on a budget, I now have a small total spend of £30.00 per month for rebuilding my wardrobe and I have come to see this as a challenge rather a hindrance. I have to heavily research each purchase, I thrift, shop at outlets and online sales to find the best quality at my price. This approach may sound a little 'Type A' but it suits my methodical nature down to the ground. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration/page/2#post-89983 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 03:07:18 +0000 Debora 89983@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kari, I don't know how I missed this thread but I just wanted to add that it's great to see you back. I'm sorry to hear about your troubles but I admire you for taking action. I wish I had more to add but it sounds like you've already gotten excellent advice. Just remember that your YLF family is here for you and sending lots of love and support your way. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration/page/2#post-89955 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 01:17:25 +0000 Kari 89955@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Velvety Chocolate, of course it is okay!</p> <p>I think I'm going to take you up on your challenge. At the very least, I'm going to try to get out of the house to either go to the gym or run, but I can't just sit around in gear all day if I'm not exercising. That will give me some motivation to get dressed in real clothes.</p> <p>I'm sure missing my heels, though, and wore them yesterday to a party just because I could! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration/page/2#post-89913 Sun, 30 Aug 2009 22:38:24 +0000 velvetychocolate 89913@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I hope it's ok for a total newbie to reply...</p> <p>I just wanted to second the idea of getting out of the house each and every day. Maybe set a time - you have to 'go out' by 10:00am. Bookstore, coffee shop, grocery store, pick up the paper - whatever. But up, dressed and out the door Monday to Friday by 10:00am. Any other stuff can wait until you get back home. You'll feel much better for it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration/page/2#post-89892 Sun, 30 Aug 2009 20:04:06 +0000 marianna 89892@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love the goal monitoring idea, Angie! I think feeling productive and in charge of your life directly influences your fashion choices! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration/page/2#post-89887 Sun, 30 Aug 2009 19:56:59 +0000 Kari 89887@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Anne, that book sounds great! I always appreciate good read recommendations, and I'm making note of the title so I can see if our library has a copy. Thank you.</p> <p>Angie, I am feeling a bit better, especially since we've had some activities scheduled this weekend that got me out of the house. Thanks for the motivation. I'm thinking ahead about small, achievable goals to set for the coming week. And I set up a haircut appointment for Tuesday.</p> <p>Marianne, I'm in the same boat - much more flexibility after Sept. 13. Maybe a September swap or meetup could work? </p> <p>Chris, thanks so much for the reminder and encouragement. I am so sorry that you went through the same struggles earlier this year, but very glad that your friends offered support and were able to help you through it. It's disorienting to have so much time on hand, but I'm trying to think positively.</p> <p>Hanna, I agree with Vani. I'm always up for a new challenge! (I missed the last few when I was out of town - perhaps I should catch up.) I wish I had friends in the area who are experienced thrifters, but we're all in the same boat - not really sure where to go or which places are good to scout out. But it would be fun to try. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration/page/2#post-89803 Sun, 30 Aug 2009 02:25:40 +0000 Vani 89803@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>yay, Hanna, challenge time! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration/page/2#post-89789 Sun, 30 Aug 2009 01:38:06 +0000 hanna 89789@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>oh kari -- what a sucky situation to be in. i remember being stuck at home and unable to work for more than a month, waiting for my visa to go through, and it made me such a wreck. i was unmotivated to do anything, i rarely went out, and i spent many a sleepless night wondering what i would do if my visa didn't come through at all!</p> <p>i know you will pull through because you are thoroughly fabulous, and i have to tell you that you are FAR more stylish and put together than i was when i went through it! </p> <p>the others have given you some wonderful suggestions, and i echo the ones for a fresh haircut and an accessories cull in particular. do you have anyone to go thrifting with? that's an inexpensive and fun way to refresh a wardrobe. or what about some easy DIYs? i'm no seamstress, but a dye job or some well-placed buttons or ribbon can do wonders to refresh tired old things otherwise destined for goodwill. </p> <p>or perhaps another YLF challenge is in order? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration/page/2#post-89659 Sat, 29 Aug 2009 04:02:35 +0000 Chris 89659@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have been so slow in reading and catching up on posts (not very fun seeing cool outfits when I hate my work uniform but that's my issue) and I am glad I stumbled on your post to read. </p> <p>For the first few months after my job ended last December I felt the same way. Later, I realized with some help of family and smart friends that I was indeed depressed. It's normal when we see ourselves as a certain person to feel the loss when that persona changes. </p> <p>It's hard to kick it - looking forward to something each day helps. My daily walks around the neighborhood helped a lot. Not kicking myself was good - it's easy to lose our self esteem when we don't get those responses we expect from job applications, etc.<br /> It's not you really!! You are not your job. Your relationships are the most important thing to take care of - starting with the one you have with yourself.<br /> Take care of you!</p> <p>Hope some of that makes sense. Keep your chin up </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89655 Sat, 29 Aug 2009 03:59:28 +0000 marianne 89655@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great, Kari! These kinds of exercise programs are very good for adding structure. YLF checkpoint program sounds great, too :)<br /> I'd be all up for a YLF event! I will be freeing up a little once school starts. Didn't someone ask about a possible swap as well? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89651 Sat, 29 Aug 2009 03:50:00 +0000 Angie 89651@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Excellent, Kari! You sound a little more pepped up already. Well done! I’m impressed with the goals you reached this week. </p> <p>We’ll give your goals a rest over the weekend but I’ll start cracking that goals whip on Monday morning :0). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89639 Sat, 29 Aug 2009 03:01:40 +0000 anne 89639@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kari, I am very late on this thread and don't have anything to add to the great advice - just empathy - I have been there, in the 90's when I was a new grad. It is funny how it can seem harder to do things when you have the time, than to fit them in when you have a busy schedule.</p> <p>I have a book recommendation for you, since I know you studied English. It is called The clothes on their backs, by Linda Grant, and was nominated for the Booker Prize a few years ago. (I have set myself some reading goals this year, and one was to read at least 5 Booker nominated novels - maybe you could have some reading goals too!) Anyway the heroine is in a similar position as you, for part of the novel. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89632 Sat, 29 Aug 2009 02:11:51 +0000 Kari 89632@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I keep starting replies and then am pulled away from the computer for one reason or another. :)</p> <p>Kristen, Tam, Sihaya, Shiny, Angie, Laura, Medusa, and Inge: big, big thanks to you all. I am really feeling the kindness and support and am so grateful. Thank you. </p> <p>I know that things will improve, and in truth my financial situation isn't bad. It's just scary and unsettling to be out of work and see so many friends and family members get laid off, and some who have been unsuccessfully job searching for over 6 months. I've let unemployment discourage me much more than it should and am trying to talk myself out of my funk.</p> <p>Keeping goal-oriented is an excellent plan. Angie, I will absolutely take you up on your offer. To stay accountable, here's my first goal recap:<br /> * Submitted four job applications today<br /> * Achieved 30+ minutes of exercise each day this week (and got my dad to be my running buddy) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89538 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 18:55:45 +0000 Inge 89538@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great to have you back Kari, I had been wondering how you've been. I'm sorry to hear you're going through a rough time. Please hang in there.</p> <p>And I'm with Medusa and the other ladies: I think you look truly amazing, but I don't want to minimize how you are feeling (been there and I completely understand). You've received wonderful suggestions and I hope you take Angie up on her "goal" offer.</p> <p>Big hug! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89489 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:55:03 +0000 medusa 89489@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kari, I read your post, then when I clicked on the link and looked at your recent outfits I wondered if I was on the wrong web page - because you look GREAT! </p> <p>I'm so sorry that you're going through a rough patch and I hope all the great ideas here help you feel more inspired.</p> <p>I don't have anything great to add except to echo the comments about getting out of the house. Even going to the public library to read some magazines or to a cafe to get some tea can be helpful.</p> <p>Good luck! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89431 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:29:33 +0000 Laura 89431@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Nice idea, Angie! Chipping away at little goals does add up to achieving big goals.</p> <p>Kari, you are clearly a great girl and have loads to offer the world. I have lots of empathy for your situation. You WILL get out there and do it! Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep going. And YLF will help you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89427 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:13:17 +0000 Angie 89427@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Your YLF friends have come to your rescue. The ladies above are AMAZING. Including yourself!</p> <p>My suggestion was going to be the goal orientated one. (I am a pragmatist at heart). The only way to feel better about any situation is to feel like you are doing something about it! </p> <p>So starting today, I am going to post a separate thread on the forum asking you about your “goals of the day” and how/whether you achieved them. In some instances you’ll come up with the goals and in other instances, we will. You’ll report back on the goals and we’ll keep you motivated as you go. How say you, jellybean?</p> <p>Marianna and Maya, if you feel this method of goal monitoring would work for you too, give us a shout. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89426 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:11:58 +0000 shiny 89426@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Losing a job is one of the top major life stressors - it's ranked right up there with losing a loved one! Even if you knew the job was ending, it can be a blow. You have been grieving and that is completely normal and expected. Now it sounds like you are ready to come out of your grief and on to the next phase. </p> <p>I am a big believer in having a schedule when you are unemployed. So make yourself a daily schedule to follow, if you haven't already. It makes a difference - we are creatures of routine and without a job we lose that. Get yourself up at a decent hour, exercise at the same time each day, work on the job search for an hour a day, same time each day, commit to calling one contact from your network once a day, etc. It helps. </p> <p>Also, force yourself to get out and about where people congregate once a day. Even if you don't chat anyone up, it can lift your spirits to be around people. (Well, I'm an extrovert, so this is the case for me, at least). For example, I used to deliberately go to the mall, just to see other humans. Even if I couldn't afford anything, I'd try things on and... now this will sound pathetic! ... I simply liked having chatty sales people to talk to! Riding on the bus was also nice. (I know, I'm strange. I just know there's something about me that thrives on physically being near people.) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89419 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:47:24 +0000 Sihaya 89419@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kari - I'm sorry you're going through a rough patch. I can empathize. The best thing I can say is force yourself to go outside and see the sun (I know that can be tough sometimes in Seattle) and breathe fresh each EACH day. Also, make a date with yourself at your local Starbucks so that it forces you to get out, get dressed, and at least see other human beings. I can also empathize on weight gain. I have the same struggle and find it hard to talk about it with most people because by most standards, I am not fat. But I *feel* fat because I'm 20 lbs over what I am used to feeling. </p> <p>If you can pick one small goal and just focus on that till you've achieve it, you will feel much better. If you think of the full list of things you think you're falling behind on, it will be over whelming and might keep you feeling stuck. </p> <p>All the best. </p> <p>Angie and Marianne - looking forward to a YLF gathering. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89403 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:07:46 +0000 yublocka 89403@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kari I don't know if I've been missing your recent posts, but I had been wondering how you were doing, so I am so glad to see you posting here. I think the outfit you have posted is great, so all is not lost. Not everyone feels amazing 100% of the time. Tough times like now will pass and in the meantime please take encouragement in the fact that you look GREAT!!!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89389 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:52:11 +0000 Kristen 89389@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kari, sweetie, you've gotten a lot of awesome advice (I was going to suggest trying the C25K plan over on your blog), so here's a bit of well-intentioned tough love.</p> <p>GET YOUR DUPA IN GEAR AND GET DRESSED IN REAL CLOTHES EVERY DAY. DO NOT ALLOW YOURSELF TO WALLOW IN YOUR LOUNGEWEAR. PUT YOUR BRA ON, PUT CLOTHES WITH ZIPPERS AND BUTTONS ON, AND GO OUTSIDE. JUST DO IT.</p> <p>And I mean that in the kindest way. </p> <p>As for a clothing inspiration idea, one thing that I did not long ago that inspired me to look at my closet differently was to make myself wear items that hadn't gotten a lot of wear in recent weeks/months. A forgotten scarf, a skirt hiding in the back, a dress you think is just off the right season -- build an outfit around it, just for fun. </p> <p>Hang in there, hon! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89368 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 07:13:54 +0000 Kari 89368@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh my goodness, I knew I could count on help from the forum, but what a plethora of great ideas! Thank you all so much for stepping in to offer suggestions (and encouragement - that's greatly appreciated too.) You are such a kind and supportive community.</p> <p>Rute, After5, Cciele, Loulou, and Shiny - I agree that it's time again to review what's in my closet so I can search for new inspiration for the orphans that I just haven't worn. I've culled the bad (not fitting, not in good condition) from my closet already, but I'm sure I've forgotten about quality items. In spite of resolving not to shop very much, I'm still leafing through catalogues but love the idea of making a scrapbook/lookbook from catalogues (or even from photos by amateur style bloggers) that suits my style. That would actually be a fun project since I have time on my hands right now.</p> <p>MariannaCecile and Maya, I wish that we *weren't* all in the same boat, but it does help to know that I'm not alone. Since I knew when my contract job was going to end, I had all these ambitious plans in mind (go to the gym every day, set a schedule for myself RE: job applications, finding volunteer work) but instead I hit an emotional wall and am just now pulling out of it. Maybe I need to think smaller - like one achievable goal per day - so that I can work to accomplish tasks or projects, like Vani suggested. I'm not giving up (and at minimum I need to apply to 3 jobs per week to qualify for unemployment insurance, so that at least gives me SOMETHING I have to do.) I also have an interview next week, so that's at least one thing I can dress up for.</p> <p>Vani, you read my mind - I've actually just talked my dad into doing the Couch to 5K plan so he can get back into running shape, and committed to being his training/running buddy. There's a 5K in early October that I'd like to do, and then I'd like to work my way into 10K shape. Not sure whether a marathon is in my future, but massive kudos to you for doing it!!!</p> <p>Bella, I feel like such a dork, but I completely forgot about Kimberly's wonderful calendar. I will definitely use it next time I'm feeling stuck - with so many days to choose from, I'm sure there will be something that gives me a new idea. I appreciate the reminder!</p> <p>RoseandJoan, Bella, and Fathenry, I was originally thinking that accessories would be kind of a waste of money, but I'm starting to think that they might be a good pick-me-up. Maybe not one a week, but maybe once a month as a small treat. One idea I'm pondering is purchasing a cute felted wool hat from Urban Outfitters since they have so many cute options for fall. I'm also thinking that I could spend some of my spare time beading since I have the supplies already and want to have more chunky necklaces in my collection.</p> <p>Fathenry, a BIG thank you to you for adding so many specific suggestions. Wow! I love blue and turquoise together, and I sometimes wear them (mainly with my orange/red dress) but should try to do so more often. Maybe I can throw coral into the mix too. I've been wanting to try waistcoats over dresses but haven't played with that look yet - thanks for the encouragement to do so! Finally, thanks so much for including YOUR tricks for when you feel stuck. At the very least, my chipped toes are begging for a new coat of polish, so tomorrow I'll begin there.</p> <p>Marianne and Angie, thanks for your sweet and encouraging thoughts. I would LOVE to meet other YLFers who are near the Seattle area. I wish I could offer to host a gathering, but living with my parents in an area that's a bit far out from the main city means that it probably wouldn't be the best place. But if there's a way I could help organize an event, I'd be happy to pitch in. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89352 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 05:59:43 +0000 Vani 89352@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>kari, I am fresh out of ideas after all those wonderful ones posted above. I just wanted to wish you well and reiterate what everyone has said - for someone in a rut, you look fantastic. I don't feel like I'm in a rut but I wish I could manage to look so put together as you do everyday!!</p> <p>Hopefully you will find time to do things you wouldn't have had time to do otherwise (when employed). I know this isn't fashion related, but perhaps you find a new hobby or invest more time in an old one? Train for a half/full marathon? It might take your mind off of feeling yucky and shlumpy. When I went through a bad breakup, training for and running a marathon helped me do a 180 and renew my outlook in life. Keep smiling! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89349 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 05:53:55 +0000 fathenry 89349@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi Kari,</p> <p>I hope you are feeling better, I think you're lovely. It is hard to be home, I've been there.</p> <p>I love the outfit you posted with the red dress and the cute little black/pattern neck scarf! You have some really cute items. Also, I adore that chartreuse drapey top - beautiful!</p> <p>Since you asked for advice, I suggest giving yourself an allowance of $10 per week or whatever you can manage to pick up some fun accessories. You can try perusing discount stores and consignment shops for accessories that will perk up your wardrobe and cost very little. I really think that completely cutting off shopping is tough, and it sounds like you could use a little pick me up. I got this idea from the Already Pretty Blog and it made so much sense to me.</p> <p>I saw some remixing ideas in your wardrobe too:</p> <p>- You have a lot of beautiful turquoise and red, have you tried wearing these colors together? I love that color combo.</p> <p>- Your gray trousers and pencil skirt seem very versitile and look like they could go with a lot of those tops</p> <p>- Does the red top work with the black pencil skirt? What about the red top under the waistcoat? </p> <p>-Does the waistcoat work over any of those cute dresses?</p> <p>-I know for sure that the waistcoat works over the blue sleeveless top because there was a post about that look at some point :)</p> <p>A couple of tricks I have tried lately:</p> <p>- wrapping a necklace around my wrist to create a new bracelet<br /> - wearing a hip slung belt<br /> - wrapping a long scarf around my waist obi-style<br /> - changing up my nail polish on my toes<br /> - leggings under a full skirt (rather than a dress)<br /> - tie your square scarf to your purse<br /> - layer your necklaces</p> <p>Please post again and let us know what you come up with! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89244 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:37:41 +0000 bella 89244@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>i just thought of another activity that will both cheer you up and give you new outfit ideas: organize your accessories closet! Go through all your necklaces, bracelets, earrings, hair accessories, watches, belts and scarves. Repair and clean the accessories that need attention, wash your scarves. I am sure you'll be surprised how many things you will rediscover and hopefully be motivated to plan new outfits around them. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89231 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 22:30:59 +0000 Angie 89231@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>That was *just* what I was thinking, Marianne. Hah! Let's organize one. </p> <p>Kari, can you get your hair done soon? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89207 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 20:23:47 +0000 marianne 89207@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am sorry you're feeling down, Kari. As an involuntary sahm, I can absolutely relate to the motivation and rut problems. I echo everyone, though - you look fantastic! Maybe we should organize a YLF event? That would be a great excuse to wear your dressier pieces </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89187 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:26:56 +0000 Maya 89187@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kari, you have basically described my life. To say I sympathize is an understatement.</p> <p>I'll be honest: I have pretty much given up and just wear loungewear most of the time (since I am at home most of the time). I still make sure I look presentable at least. I continue to do my hair and make sure that my lounge clothes remain distinct from my pajamas. I change into them after I take a shower and they are always clean and in good condition. I always wear a bra (not that I have a choice, but some women do). Sometimes I'll put in my contacts.</p> <p>However, I know I'm in the minority here and most don't feel comfortable being in loungewear to the extent that I'm wearing it. It sounds like you wouldn't do this either. I know it's pretty sad but it helps keep me motivated...and I am seriously lacking in motivation lately.</p> <p>I also spend some quality time with my closet, experimenting and trying to rediscover or reappropriate what I already own (since I can't shop right now). That way I know exactly what I'll wear when I get out of this hole. It sounds like you are doing that too.</p> <p>I think you should set some goals for yourself, style-wise. Set challenges for yourself. since outside forces have given you no reason to get dressed every day, you need to make up your own reasons. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/looking-for-inspiration#post-89181 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:05:34 +0000 shiny 89181@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, Kari, you look absolutely amazing - polished, impeccable, stylish - each and every day to me! </p> <p>I can totally relate about feeling frumpy though: I am still working on losing these extra lbs I gained this spring. I am *seriously* overdue for a haircut (going next week, phew); the roots are showing horribly. I desperately need to get to the mall for eyebrow threading: I had done a pretty decent job maintaining on my own for a few months, but they are losing their shape now. And even my pedicure, which I got only a few weeks back, is starting to chip. I just feel frumpy - and it's not really about the clothes. Know what I mean?</p> <p>As for being bored with your style, sometimes what I'll do is pick an item - say a blouse - and then spend an hour trying it on with items I'd never considered pairing it with before. Even if you don't think it will work, try it. You may be surprised at what kind of combos you come up with. The day Jean came over last month, I did that (I wanted to wear something she hadn't seen already, LOL). I ended up pairing lavender silk blouse with black and white graphic cardigan and pearls. I love this combo so it's now in major rotation. But I would never have tried the two together if I wasn't so motivated to figure out a new way to wear that particular blouse (which I was This close to tossing). </p> <p>With that said, I also think it's easiest to get in a rut in the summer, because you can't layer, layer layer. Everything is just too simple. Toss on a dress. Done. Pair clams with a top. Done. Yawn!</p> <p>Fall is almost here... feels like fall here today, in fact! </p>