Spring Starting Point - YouLookFab Forum

Category

Shopping

Welcome! Read about what to wear and how to wear it on the YLF Blog. Join the YLF Forum to ask specific questions or just chat about fashion and personal style. Or check out the curated list of things we love in YLF Finds.

Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Spring Starting Point

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

So moving into a new season and wanting a refreshed style, where do you start? Do you choose a few items that make your heart flutter and build around those? Or do you figure out before buying what color palette you'd like to work within and start there? Or do you start with footwear, the true wardrobe workhorses and then move on? Or do you review what you currently have in your closet for the impending new season, determine what (if any) of those items you want to keep, and build around those?

I'm wanting to create a lively but cohesive wardrobe for Spring - items that are fun, structured, colorful, retro, hints of boho, smattering of Parisian chic but that work together to create something that makes sense.

Would love to hear how you shop for a season

Shopping

20 replies

Latest reply was from Jaime

Jenn

(website)

Veteran

I wanted to say that I start with a closet review and a list, but that's totally not true. I posted last week with a list of items that "make my heart flutter," and suspect those will become my starting point (or similar items, if those particular ones don't work out). I did make a list of wardrobe holes, as well, but I sometimes find that holes are better filled by being open and aware than by doing concentrated shopping.

Many of your wardrobe goals--fun, structured, retro, hints of boho, smattering of Parisian chic--match my tastes, so I'm looking forward to seeing what you come up with.

texstyle

(website)

Veteran

I just posted a spring capsule -- that's often how I try to get ready for the new season. Well, that and buying one or two items I feel I really want, which is where this started (navy handbag and sandals). I won't limit myself to those items, but it helps me prepare some outfits to consider at least.

http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....-and-white

I bought the tweed jacket in that capsule years ago on big discount and only wear it once in a while (to me, being pattern adverse, this feels like a "statement" kind of jacket lol). This spring, I may wear it a bit more since tweed jackets are on trend.

One tee is new, the others standbys I always have on hand. I'll dress the outfits up with some jewelry, belt. My life is so casual though so I can live in jeans, shorts, utility styles, etc.

Anonymous

I would start with the colors I want to wear and a closet review, then move to footwear. As you are revamping your style though, you may want to start with your favorite finds. Taking a page from the Vivienne Files ,I try to find a top, topper, and two different bottoms all in the same color, plus 4 pieces in a coordinating color and mixable with the first group, then expand, usually with tops. I seldom can actually do this though.
I will be looking forward to seeing what you come up with. I've even toying with a style shift but have no idea how to accomplish what I picture in my mind.

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

Jenn - a list of wardrobe holes is a great idea. I didn't even think of that. I'm going to guess by the fact that you posted "heart-fluttering" items, that you are a bit of an emotional shopper? If so, that's TOTALLY me too!

textstyle - what a fabulous capsule! Wow - I'm in awe. I need to study this more.

Joy - I'm leaning towards the colors first as well. The only thing I'm realizing is how I proceed will depend a great deal on what is available in my neck of the woods. For example, I adore tomato red and coral and would love to include those as part of my spring wardrobe, but that doesn't mean those colors will be available to me, you know? I like the idea of trying to apply Vivienne files to building my capsule - I've never done anything like that.

rachylou

Veteran

Spring is so short where I am. I feel I usually do a spring fling. Probably starting with a colour palette and then picking a trendy silhouette/combo maybe, wearing it to death for about a month. After that, I buckle down and work on things that are more 'me' and long-lived.

However, I could be delusional...

Ginger

Veteran

I haven't ever really planned ahead for a particular season, at least until last fall. But what feels natural is to assess what I currently have, and identify any holes or struggles that I had the previous year. Usually I've got a pretty intuitive handle on that already. I also focus on the items and formulas that I enjoyed the most in the previous year, and mentally work out how to fit that with the holes. If there are fashionable colors that I like, I keep an eye out for good items in those colors.

Functionally, I invested in some updated footwear (booties and pointy toes) and various knits. I was also wide open to what caught my eye: The "half tuck" freed me up to try tops I'd never be able to style otherwise. I got more items in burgundy and green, taking advantage of those non-traditional autumn colors. I discovered I love metallics, especially in blue. And unexpectedly, a new black skater skirt and in-my-closet white faux leather skirt became wardrobe staples.

I haven't really done this for spring yet. This week I've been scooping up some final Fall/Winter buys, some of which have year-round use. But I need to look at my shoes and see what, if anything, I need to update. (I know I need to do a serious cull, which will be hard.) The jeggings and skater-skirt formulas won't work in warm weather, so I need to assess my skirts/dresses and toppers. I might work on updating blouses that will work with my full summer skirts. I would really like a blush jacket, but haven't seen anything that has the fit and price point I want. eShakti is always singing its siren song, but I'm going to hold out now for more individual prints and patterns in my favorite cuts.

Debbie

Veteran

I am starting with shoes and tops. I know I want to add red to my wardrobe so I am adding it in both footwear and tops. A pair on slip on sneakers is high on my list too. I struck out with 2 pair but I am still looking. I bought the GAP girlfriends and am considering another pair.
They fit like a dream!

Jules

Veteran

Spring is short here as well, so I think of it as spring/summer in terms of choosing a palette. And yes, definitely consider what is available before setting your heart on certain colours. Don't make my mistake of planning imaginary wardrobes around Pantone's Emerald Green fantasy of 2013
To see retail trends, I find it helpful to just be online looking at the new arrivals at major retailers I have access to. I haven't really looked much but navy, white and olive seem to be going strong for basics, for example. And every kind of light pink including some corals! I'm seeing prints that incorporate dark and light, pale and bright rather than all-over pastels or brights. So how do the trends you see fit with what you have already? I think that is the best starting point, unless you are buying a whole new wardrobe
For example, I did dark/navy blue and white for two years in a row, with lots of high contrast patterns including the breton stripes that were so in. My accent colours were brights like emerald, orange, and yellow. Two years ago I took note of incoming trends I liked towards blush, lower contrast patterns/outfits, and richer textures. I realized I could still wear these with my blue and white stuff and I had a refreshed working palette for the next two spring/summers. Shoes and bags are important pieces to pull everything together but I choose them after I have a palette in mind, because I can't afford to make a mistake with these more expensive daily wear items.

I like this top from Joe Fresh!

This post has 1 photo. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

El Cee

Veteran

Interesting thread Shannon. I do not think there is a right or wrong method for refreshing wardrobe and overall style. It is really a personality driven thing. I tend to combine strategies a bit… although I probably lean more toward the "heart flutter" method. I am an eclectic, intuitive, emotional dresser and am not by nature a list maker (much as I would like to be). But I am (for the most part) pretty aware of what I already have for each season. I do review and cull at the end of each season before I pack clothing away (smallish closets here, so I do have to store some very seasonal items). I take this opportunity to make a mental note of items I might need to fill gaps, etc. I do not adhere to a strict color palette, but do have loose (mostly color-based) capsules so I know what works with what. I build the upcoming season around what I already have, but mostly shop with my heart to make new purchases. However, new items must play well with my existing wardrobe. [Rule #1 -- I must be able to wear the item in at least 3 different outfits for it to be a keeper -- unless it is a special occasion or stand-alone kind of piece]. Last spring/summer I wanted a little more boho in my style. I added some dramatic flared jeans, some espadrilles and wedge sandals, and a few fun, colorful tops. I also added shorts for the first time in decades. I had a couple of try-on sessions with things already in my closet so that I was sure the new pieces would work and that I would be happy with the updates. As far as what I use as a starting point (in terms of clothes vs. shoes), I usually build my footwear, handbag and accessory collection around my clothing -- but am occasionally inspired enough by one of those items to do it the other way around. I have occasionally built a small capsule around a scarf or a handbag, but the process has always been intuitive and fluid rather than planned. I am excited for you with your new style direction and your return to some fun, retro elements. I will enjoy seeing where the journey takes you. So good to have you back on the forum.

Barbara Diane

Veteran

Last year I added a pair of Abby slingback sandals and a pair of metallic flat Naot sandals. I wore and will wear the flats a lot, but this year I want to get more use out of the slingbacks, so I will look for different items to wear with them.
Because I can't keep all of my wardrobe in my head I will review my clothes before I shop more to avoid duplicates, but saying that, I have already purchased a few items that I knew I didn't have, or that filled holes. I particularly want to review my wardrobe so that all my purchases are either really useful or really special.
I plan to spend a chunk of time styling my clothes in different ways, especially with scarves and jewelry, to freshen my look without spending a lot of money. However, I would like to find at least one cotton short casual dress to wear in hot weather. That said, if I was going for a major style change it would be quite a different story.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

This is how you start:

"Or do you review what you currently have in your closet for the impending new season, determine what (if any) of those items you want to keep, and build around those?"

You always edit and review what you have first.
Then you do a quick analysis of the internal and external factors that affect your style. Refresh your memory here, Shannon:

https://youlookfab.com/2015/09.....our-style/

Then you assess how much of a style change you want. For example, last year I wanted a biggish change - and I am still riding that crest of the wave. FEEL your way through that one - and it's fine to change your mind many times. You can read about that here.

http://youlookfab.com/2015/12/.....e-in-2015/

Set your new style moniker. Mine changed from Urban Prince to Urban Pretty last year. Modern, Simple, Soft, Crisp & Dressy. Might change the Simple to Retro. Still deciding.
Set your goals. Here are mine for 2016:

http://youlookfab.com/2016/01/.....-for-2016/

Keep a close eye on the trends and colours and try the ones that tickle your fancy. Experiment. HAVE FUN. Don't take it too seriously.
Build onto your existing wardrobe capsules from there, and start new ones too.

And read these posts for interest. It will ALL come back to you, Shannon. And again - have fun and don't take it too seriously:

http://youlookfab.com/2016/01/.....-for-2016/

http://youlookfab.com/2015/11/.....e-renewal/

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

Rachy - Spring is indeed a short season - here too. But I think if I choose wisely, many of the items could transition into summer. Especially since my office is quite cold with A/C - for example, jackets are a must for me in summer.

Ginger - investing in up-to-date footwear is key, don't you think? IMHO nothing makes an outfit look more "off" than the wrong footwear. And don't give up on finding YOUR blush jacket - it's out there somewhere!

Debbie - so great to hear about the Gap girlfriends. I think I need to try those on as my denim capsule is in dire need of updating.

Jules - I agree about spring/summer merging into one wardrobe. That would be the same for me. Ooohhhh...you've seen some coral? So love that color. Isn't it fresh and happy?

El Cee - I need to remember your Rule #1 - so often, I end up with either a wardrobe orphan or an item that can only be worn one way. Not good value then. I do agree that so much of what we gravitate towards is driven by our heart flutters and intuition. We are so lucky to live in a time where the rules are meant to be broken and we can have so much fun with fashion. And thank you - it's nice to be back

Barbara Diane - thank you for the reminder to avoid duplication. I mean really...how many black pencil skirts does a girl need?

Angie - oooohhhhhh....Angie homework! A thousand thank you's. This is EXACTLY the kind of information I needed. I'm heading off to a meeting but will definitely be pouring over this info this evening. Have I mentioned I'm glad to be back and that you're wonderful?

Deborah

Veteran

We are heading into Autumn here (bring on winter - it's been a looong summer).

My wardrobe is in a very happy place and the reality is I don't have any 'needs' so I am

reviewing what I have
moving on any items that have served their purpose
perusing whats coming out in the stores for the coming season
and selecting a few items that I think will give my Autumn wardrobe a little refresher.

I still keep to my colour palette of black, grey, white and blue and am a little more open to adding a colour or pattern if I feel it works within my preferred aesthetic.

My footwear is in good shape, but my black ankle boots may be on their last legs so I may need to replace them, or I may get just one more season out of them:)

I have already added two things to my Autumn/Winter wardrobe

#1 Long cardigan - Knit front and Jersey back and sleeves (this replaces a poorer quality one I picked up last year.

#2 Waterfall Jacket

and I am considering adding #3 which is a suedette jacket that is very light and would be a fantastic indoor jacket.

This post has 3 photos. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

A little homework is a good thing! My pleasure, and YES. I know you adore me! ((((HUGS))). It's GREAT to have you back, sweet Shannon. Your energy and attitude were missed on this forum.

LaPed

Veteran

Hmm, living in a place where spring is mud-tastic I've never really bought a spring wardrobe. I am looking forward to bringing out my skirts and dresses again once the weather is consistently above freezing, but I'll continue to style them for F/W weather -- tights and boots and sweaters -- for another couple months.

I've already tackled a couple wardrobe holes for summer -- shorts, and light (in weight and color) long sleeve shirts for sun protection. I'll definitely be doing a lot of shop-your-closet this year, as I'm about to be "house poor" for the first time.

I'm still on the lookout for truly summery skirts and frocks -- these are tough items for me to find, living in a climate where cold predominates, and a little hard to justify since they only see a couple months in the sun each year!

Beth Ann

Veteran

Dang. I need to do that Angie homework.

Right now, I'm braving 50F days (hee), willing myself to stay in my Deep Winter capsule (with modifications for warmer weather). I will be helped by some snow tomorrow!

I tend to divide my plans into short-term capsules:
Hope for Spring (Mar 1- Easter)
Cool Spring (Easter - Memorial Day)
Early Summer (Memorial Day - July 4)
High Summer (July 4- Aug 1)
Dog Days of Summer (Aug 1- Labor Days)
Warm Autumn
Brisk Autumn
Holiday
Deep Winter

Right now, I'm prepping "Hope for Spring," checking for wardrobe holes and needed replacements. I'm also planning for Cool Spring - Early Summer. My planning includes digging in my closet (quite literally, in its current state), thinking through any style shifts and, most importantly, imagining what real life will look like in the next few months. Any travel (to Michigan, back to Chicago, maybe SC), special events, (Conference, family wedding, two concerts), changes (perhaps a big career change)? Next, I imagine the average days -- exercise, spring cleaning, picnics, errands, teaching -- and, with pictures or just mentally, I create a few go to outfits out of what I have, and then create a list of new ideas.

I know that Navy will be a featured color, and chambray and white will be might light neutrals. My accent color is TBD. I still love cobalt, but I'm not feeling like adding much this year, unless I see a fab-u-lous item. I might try little accents of poppy and/or yellow.

Aida

Veteran

What Angie said! That process is what I do as well, though current wrinkle added of size requiring replacement of many/all basics and essentials (which I've already been working on slowly the past 6 months) and a VERY tight budget. So with that in mind those very necessary items are the most important to update (way less fun to spend money on though, boo), and then because trendy is a big of my style I also look closely at which trends would 1- give me the most bang for my buck and 2- make me feel happy. And along with that I am also looking at ways that those trendy items could be used for updating essentials. For example I need new jeans anyway, so if I choose trendy silhouettes for a few pairs I can tick off lots of boxes in a way that will make me quite happy.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

I tend to read Angie's blog posts and let her do the work for me, LOL.

But in all seriousness, I use all the strategies you mentioned (and some others that have come up in the thread, besides.) I do like to get a handle on footwear if I can quite early in the game. (Though I often supplement later). It's usually one of my larger costs and I always find that up to date footwear can rescue older items.

But typically, I look over what I have, edit, consider what I'll be doing all spring and summer, and estimate whether I have outfits for all those activities and what I might need. I'm currently doing that right now!

Caro in Oz

Veteran

I look through what I have first & decide which things I still want to wear.
I also buy at least one pair of shoes/boots a season as I find it is a great way for me to stay current

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

Shannon, I don't feel I should add after Angie's summary. Some books should be reduced to a page; Angie's post is really an encyclopedia.
That said, I would of course start with shoes!