WIL: Newbie Report - YouLookFab Forum

I have been on this website for about two weeks now and just thought I'd share what I've done so far. As an fyi, I'm in my late thirties and have always been fashion-conscious, but never analytical. That's all changing. Now it seems everything I like, I worry it if's "too young/too mature"- like animal print. Anyway, I digress...In December I made my fashionista SIL ruthlessly edit my closet and "school me". She turned me on to Angie, the blog and the forum. Also, I bought waaayyy too much online pre-holidays because of all the great sales. Returned alot and having some "wearer's remorse" for some new stuff I kept.

What I've learned:
1. SYC. This was my main intention in perusing this site. Before I get started, I wanted to know what I have. So far, I have unearthed an old skirt and paired with a slouchy sweater- would never have done that in the past. Also, I copycat'd- MaryK, I think...I paired a white button-down under a black, sleeveless, leather-shouldered top.

2. I have determined a budget and schedule for future purchases and am identifying my holes. January was replacement of basics. February will probably be replacement of winter gear. March I am splurging on a new hairstyle - the foundation, right? Unfortunately, I have to wait for current haircut to grow out a bit. THEN, I am investing in premium jeans. While it doesn't sound super sexy, I feel like having intentional purchase goals I will avoid splurging/impulse shopping.

3. I've been turned on to a bunch of new shops and sites and some of the intimidation of "shoppin' fancy" has dissipated. When it's time, I look forward to expanding my options.

4. Lots of tricks for caring and maintenance; closet organization.

Still working up to posting photos and have lots of questions for you all. Sorry for the long post- thanks for sticking with me.

10 years ago

Sarah A

Veteran

Great report! And welcome

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Welcome, and great insights. I look forward to hearing more about your style journey.

Caro in Oz

Welcome You've come to the right place. Loved hearing your story so far

deb

Welcome!

Susie

Welcome! I think you have a terrific start and I look forward to hearing- and seeing!- more!

Anonymous

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

Welcome. You sound like you've got a great plan developing.

Aubergine

Welcome! You sound so thoughtful and organized! I'm also in my 30s, so I know what you mean about having age-appropriateness worries from both ends of things.

rachylou

Wow! You've done a lot and in a short time. And all solid work. I foof around a lot...

Gracie

Welcome. Your monthly plan sounds great!

Suz

Wow! This sounds fabulous.

I realise, reading it, that I followed a similar process when I joined. I'll bet many of us do.

First a big purge. Then a big splurge, over which we feel some remorse because either we've spent more than we'd like or we realize quickly that we hadn't completely defined our style goals/ style persona/ needs.

Then a bit of time to "regroup," observe, and think. (For some of us this devolves into analysis paralysis but you seem far too practical and action oriented for that to happen!)

Then -- a discovery of what is IN the closet and a plan.

Then hair.

Then premium jeans. The gateway drug..... (oops! did I say that?)

anne

Well done. you have done a LOT in two weeks. Congrats!

Debbie

Welcome! I think you have a great start. The new hair will make you feel great.

Gigi

It sounds like you're really doing a great job learning about yourself and your clothing styles and needs. I too made quite a few purchases I'd wished I hadn't in retrospect--I was starting with a bare-bones wardrobe and didn't quite understand what I wanted or was looking for. But I think in a way you have to go through that, because the very act of making the mistakes helps you learn about yourself. It's almost like it gives you a framework to work with, whereas before you just had empty space. You're not the only one with buyer's remorse on this forum! :^)

Kiwibird

Active Member

Welcome! Your plan is brilliant - it's a great start. And I totally agree with Gigi's comment that making mistakes help you learn about yourself (been there, done that and still learning). Have fun with your style journey!

gryffin

Doubleh - what a fantastic start you've made!! Brilliant and insightful plan!! So looking forward to see where the next part of your journey takes you!!

kkards

are you sure you're a newbie? I'm impressed with what you have managed in 2 weeks, i haven't managed that much in over a year! can't wait for what comes next.

April

You sound like exactly the kind of focused, disciplined member that we need more of. Welcome and keep us posted on your process.

viva

I think you have accomplished a ton in two weeks! Pat yourself on the back for that! And I do think a new haircut and well-fitting jeans are both really excellent thoughtful investments as you move forward. I hope you'll think about posting some pics at some point!

doubleh

Thank you all! You certainly do make a newbie feel welcome! It's just time to be more thoughtful in my approach. Tired of wasting money on cheap stuff or having anxiety for big spends. This forum will help me justify!

I will post pics soon- I am just waiting for a good inspiration of a "new to me" outfit.

Oh! And I have an alterations appt for tomorrow to see if I can salvage/revamp anything before I get new. I usually DIY, but I have realized, just as in home reno, there is a line and some things are best left to professionals!

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