Evolving Your Personal Style in 2013

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Angie is co-founder of YLF and its resident fashion stylist.

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Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Evolving Your Personal Style in 2013

— by Angie

on January 3, 2013

It’s never essential to evolve your style. My style is in a happy place at the moment, so I doubt my style shifts will be dramatic or even all that noticeable as we head into 2013. That said, I’m always looking for ways to inject newness into my look, no matter how subtle the change, because that’s part of what makes my style journey fun. Combining constancy with change is a prerequisite for my style at the start of each new year and fashion season.

In 2013 I will strive to keep the following aspects of my style constant:

Combining the classics with a big dose of modern as I incorporate new trends
A colour palette of black, shades of white, and sour brights
Equal parts Boyish and Ladylike
Dressy
Polish
Simplicity
Crispness
Strictness
No jewelry, except for my watch and wedding ring
Low heels
Very little make-up and no fingernail polish
Gold

As for the changes, this is what I’m craving:

Softness: I rediscovered my love for light blue last year and want to continue exploring pretty pastels.
Refinement: More and more I appreciate a sense of refinement across all wardrobe items. I LOVE menswear inspired shoes and clothing, but they must look refined and not rugged.
Romance: I adore lace and flirty midi skirts with movement. I want more.
Pointy Toed Footwear: I’m going to wear more low heeled and flat pointy toed pumps after re-acquiring the taste with a recent purchase of pointy toed, heeled oxfords. I’m in the mood to combine the severity of pointy toes with soft dressing. I wish I could wear dainty pointy toed shoes with ankle straps, but my feet have rejected ankle straps. Perhaps I’ll find a magical pair that works.
Trousers: Still crazy about all sorts of trouser silhouettes and can’t wait to sport the new long shorts shape for Summer.
Ink blue: I keep on craving more of it in my wardrobe. It’s softer than black, beautiful with white, and very chic.
White: I already wear a lot of white and cream, but want to wear even more.

I don’t make resolutions, and I don’t hold myself to a rigid set of style goals. Style goals are important, but they must be flexible enough to allow for spontaneity. I’ll look back on this post at the end of the year and compare my thoughts to how my style actually evolved over 2013. Always an interesting exercise!

Over to you. Do you have thoughts on how you plan to evolve your style this year?

Individual Style

65 comments · Add a comment

Atlantia

Veteran

2013 will be the year I actually pay attention to my style! I’m taking more pictures, evaluating what works, and developing a well thought out wardrobe. I also love that as my weight loss journey continues, I feel brave enough to try brand new things. After all, if it only fits for a season, why not give it a go?

It is really interesting to see how many aspects of my style is similar to yours, Angie. But then, there are things that are so different. Where you are sour brights, polished, jewelry free, and Team Gold, I am jewel tones, RATE, exploring jewelry, and Team Silver. Such fun!

January 3, 2013 at 4:20 am

missvee

Veteran

Just being able to think about my style evolving is a great step forward to me. In the past I’ve felt a bit disappointed in myself when old favourites didn’t feel so wonderful anymore. Now I look at it as an opportunity to try something new. Thanks YLF! I’ll be looking for interesting footwear, and some clothing in soft muted colours ( to wear with my brights ).

January 3, 2013 at 4:25 am

Vildy

Veteran

I used to think of my style as Off Duty Princess but at 64 I am finally seeing some signs of age and I am evolving to Off Duty Queen. I always have strength through emphasis and punctuation but am exploring a stronger, sleeker look in general. I am very influenced by the menswear blogs I read and am thinking of replacing more frivolous looks with
GoToHell looks.

January 3, 2013 at 4:34 am

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

Delightful read! This year you dubbed my style elegant tomboy and that has helped me more than I could have imagined. I am right there with you with the low heels, minimal makeup, minimal jewelry and pointy toes! I also love ink blue and navy and most other blues really and am replacing black with blue slowly but surely. I am definitely RATE as opposed to polished, and casual as opposed to dressy, but I do think I am refining my style and enjoying fashion more than ever. There is no question I need to thank you Angie and YLF for that!

January 3, 2013 at 5:07 am

kimlee

Veteran

I am still striving for the “happy” place in my style. In 2013, I would like to find ways to incorporate the things I love to wear to work into my life outside of the office. I also want to play around with trends – as I tend to stick to basic classic pieces. I am hopeful that 2013 will be the year that the core of my style is nailed down, and then I can add in a few unexpected twists in the years to come.

January 3, 2013 at 5:09 am

TraceyLiz65

(website)

Veteran

I discovered that I am ladylike with an edge, ie moto jackets with dresses are a new love. I want to explore that idea more. Have to figure out how to translate that feeling into spring….

January 3, 2013 at 5:47 am

Kat

Veteran

Thanks so much, Angie, for your always excellent descriptions of the thought-process. In particular for me today, I appreciated your description of your preference for “refined not rugged menswear”. At this point, I’ve realized that it is so important to get the nuance right, and that the subtleties of the adjectives explain so much about why a particular execution soars or falls flat.

I have finally settled on “relaxed” as a very important descriptor for the style I hope to achieve (perhaps the opposite of your “strict”) as it encompasses the feel I aim for in both my dressy and more casual outfits….edgy/arty without being “hard” or “boho”, tomboyish or menswear inspired, but not too rugged (ie popped collar, relaxed rolled up sleeves on a button-down that isn’t too stiff)…. I think this adjective includes fabrications, fits, and styles I may like or pass on.

So my goal is to work on the nuance this year, to distill descriptors down to the essence of what I am looking for….and I thank you and all the members of YLF for helping me to more clearly articulate and define what these subtleties mean for me!

January 3, 2013 at 5:52 am

Kristin L

Veteran

I’m not sure where I am style-wise. I feel like I go back and forth between loving what I wear and getting bored with it. Hopefully this year I’ll be able to figure out what I’m most comfortable in/look best in.

January 3, 2013 at 5:56 am

Isis

Veteran

Great post! I actually woke up in the middle of the night thinking about this post…I was looking forward to it, happy as I rolled over and went back to sleep!

As you know I adore menswear and boywear. I look forward to your interpretations!

As for me in 2013, I’ll continue with my casual masculine-inspired looks and continue to embrace slouch. I would like to introduce some change, but am not sure even where to begin!

January 3, 2013 at 6:07 am

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

*clapping hands*

I was sooooo looking forward to this post after you hinted at it yesterday. I love reading about your own style evolutions Angie and how you approach each new season.

Now you go ahead and feel smug because I too have embraced the trouser trend. Gosh, just a few short weeks/months ago I commented that trousers weren’t for me but then I found a few that worked and voila – done like dinner! I’m already hoping to snag some lovely cream linen trousers for summer.

I can slowly see my style evolving into something more modern and graphic but still incorporating my love of retro – maybe a fusion of the two will result. I’m just going to let this evolve naturally and see where it takes me.

Not that I ever wore them much, but I am sooooo over skinny jeans. Although many of the YLFers rock them beautifully, they are just NOT ME. One of my 2013 style goals is to not expend so much energy trying to get something to work for me that I really don’t care for.

Lower heels will become more of my style in 2013 as my knee injury really grumbles angrily at me with anything over 2 inches these days.

I’m also interested in purchasing less in 2013 in terms of number of actual items, but want the items I do purchase to be of excellent quality and versatility. I learned over 2012 that items I really spent a lot of time considering before buying have been the ones I enjoy wearing the most.

As for colours, I would like to add more navy, white and the upcoming hot colour of green.

And the primary goal for 2013 – HAVE FUN!!!

January 3, 2013 at 6:22 am

texstyle

(website)

Veteran

My goal is to find more hot weather style options that make me feel great when I wear them. Currently, I tend to dread summer somewhat due to the extreme heat and need to wear next to nothing to keep cool. I’d like to have some “go to” looks that make me look forward to June – September.

I have also recently decided to try some light blue back in my wardrobe. It used to be a favorite color of mine but it’s really the only pastel I seem to look good in so I sort of pushed tham all aside. I hope I can find a few light blue linen/cotton/silk items to go with white for this summer.

I would also like to find some other lighter colors to wear on top as I tend to buy deeper jewel tones even in summer t-shirts for the most part. I also wonder about white – when I wear bright white I feel self-conscious about the contrast with my smile (not terrible but not white either). I don’t really want extreme tooth whitening because I worry about damage but I’m not sure how to overcome that particular concern. Any suggestions? Do others feel awkward wearing bright white for this reason or is it just my own insecurities?

January 3, 2013 at 6:32 am

Ceit

I feel as though I have a good handle on my colder weather clothing now. My epiphany of “Firefly Chic”, a fusion of sci-fi, cyberpunk, masculine, Old West, military, Asian, a bit RATE was a real revelation for me.

I have no idea in the summer though, so I am looking forward to seeing how I can translate this into summer looks when I don’t have my beloved layers.

January 3, 2013 at 6:41 am

Diana

Veteran

I think I am at a happy place for my style right now, so I’m not going to make any style resolutions this year. I’m just going to let it evolve how it will and see what happens.

(Last year my style resolution was to start looking more sophisticated, which I think I accomplished, at least to some degree).

January 3, 2013 at 6:44 am

Thistle

Veteran

I love reading this! It really brings home what a well cultivated style looks like, and how it can continue to change.

I am at the beginning of my journey, so I am not yet tot he point where I can even make such specific comments on where my journey will take me.

For me, my main style resolution is to try to figure out what my current style is and then hone it!

I do know I face some challenges, and those definately have an influence for me. I am a new mom with a young daughter, we may or may not choose to have another baby, I struggle with my body shape and dressing it well, it is very cold where I live for many months a year, and I work in a very male dominated industry.

While none of those define my style, they definately shape my choices.

January 3, 2013 at 6:46 am

rae

(website)

Veteran

I also want something new, but I don’t know what it is. I do know I have not seen it yet! Possibly just a pair of flatform loafers or somesuch to make my spring work outfits feel lighter.

January 3, 2013 at 6:48 am

Phoebe

Veteran

Vildy, what is a GoToHell-look? You´re cracking me up!!!

I hope to include even more classics into my look. They are the add-on now, they should become the basis in 2013.

Love your post, Angie!

January 3, 2013 at 6:55 am

cheryl

Veteran

I am happy with my wardrobe and don’t expect any big changes. I need to get rid of some things, I just have too much, due to my love for a deal and I received quite a lot of hand me downs this year. I would like to add some emerald green and some ink blue into my wardrobe. Also I seem to be moving away from crew necks and especially my very large collection of baggy, crew neck tees.

January 3, 2013 at 7:04 am

Laura

(website)

Veteran

Collecting skirts, tops and pointy-toes flats is on my list this spring. I also don’t make resolutions, Angie. High five!

January 3, 2013 at 7:07 am

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Chuckling with Isis and Shannon — I, too, woke up in the middle of the night looking forward to this post!

I just love reading about your thought process and how you break things down, Angie. It is so helpful, going forward.

When it comes to your “keeping the same” list — I could write almost every word of it! Except my signature colours are different, I won’t be wearing ALL low heels (I like a mix of high and low even in my heels!) and I wear silver more often than gold (though I do wear gold, too.)

I am also totally into ink blue and navy and want more of it, I crave some refinement especially in footwear and will also be embracing pointy toes or at least refined almond toes (like the SE python booties). I’m in love with trousers and look forward to more menswear looks. I also love midi skirts.

I expect to take my style a bit further in a modern and somewhat minimalist direction, especially through the summer. A real goal is to find some really strong items that can stand on their own in our hot summers. This is not going to be easy. Summer style (in the extreme heat with no air conditioning) is a real and ongoing challenge. However, the worst heat only lasts 6 to 8 weeks here, so I need to remember that I don’t need a LOT of items for this period. I just need the RIGHT ones.

Meanwhile, I have a MUCH clearer sense of what works on me (colour, cuts, shapes) and what works for my lifestyle than I ever had before.

I’ve realized that by breaking my capsules into subcapsules, I can better address my wardrobe holes. For instance:

Work at home includes TRUE work at home days…when jeans or shorts and a knit or simple woven top are the best things for me to have on. But a secondary capsule is Work-at-home-going-out (doctor’s, lunch, meeting, banking, etc.) And for that I need different items. I also need a different set of items for my monthly visits to the city. Yes, some of these will overlap. But what feels right in each situation is a bit different.

Okay. I could go on. But this is not the place. So I will just say thank you once again for serving as such a great example!

January 3, 2013 at 7:08 am

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

So many great thoughts, and thanks Phoebe.

Vildy, aren’t you the Royal Devil

Atlantia, Shevia and Laura, high five!

Shannon, I’m applauding right back at your very meaningful comment. You have nailed the style direction that debuted at the end of 2012, and are already rocking it.

Kat, although I am not a words person. I find it important to describe fashion and style correctly – at least in my own mind – because as you said, often the subtle nuances make all the difference.

Isis, you’ll have a ball exploring your style direction with YLF throughout 2013.

Texstyle, I wouldn’t worry about bright white matching or mismatching your teeth. Wear the shade that makes you feel fab. If that happens to be an off white – go for it.

Ceit, I find your style very RATE. Perhaps the most RATE on our forum!

Diana, I believe you achieved a level of sophistication in your style.

Thistle, your thoughts are practical, focused and intelligent. A great place to start.

Suz, I’ve noticed that our style constants are similar so a big high five back at you too! Like Shannon, your thought process is very clear – and relaxed to the point that you feel 100% in control. I have no doubt that your already happy style place will be even happier in 2013.

January 3, 2013 at 7:21 am

Alicat

I’m interested in incorporating more drapey silhouettes and fewer crisp sheath dresses. I’m also interested in softer, lighter colors. I’ll see how this plays out!

January 3, 2013 at 7:52 am

rute

Veteran

Great post!
I used to love black but this winter I’m all over soft colors, cream, white.
I still love my classic working wardrobe but I’m mixing my dresses with more trendy pieces like moto jackets and booties!
The other thing I’m noticing it is that I’m moving to a more looser fit.

January 3, 2013 at 8:17 am

Carole

Veteran

The timing is perfect for this post! I have been dragging my feet about pinning down my style goals and even my style persona, I’m not sure if it’s because I don’t feel confident enough to decide, the fact that sometimes I feel like I have multiple style personalities, or if I’m being rebellous! But, dang it, I’m ready to commit!

*Hone my style and closet to reflect my preferences for Refined, Classic and Modern with tiny doses of a trend that is flattering

*Make shopping list of actual needs and limit impulse buys.

*Focus on adding “quality” items for workhorses, shoes and bags

*Determine a color palette (2 neutrrals and an accent) for each season

*Continue taking WIW photos

Phew! That wasn’t too difficult. I feel so much better now!

Thanks for the inspiration today, Angie!

January 3, 2013 at 8:34 am

Rebecca

Angie – great and thought provoking post. But may I ask what does RATE stand for?
Thanks!

January 3, 2013 at 8:43 am

Anne

RATE = Rough Around The Edges

January 3, 2013 at 8:47 am

Dana

(website)

Veteran

My style is feeling pretty happy right now. I made some great additions this fall that I’m excited to mix and match even more. One theme that has recently emerged is comfort; however, I’ll never sacrifice style for comfort. Although I love the look of heels, my feet love them less and less. I believe flats and low heels will become the leaders this year.

I am also interested in adding a few more blues into my wardrobe, but they have to be unique, so I’m looking forward to the challenge. I have a lot more thoughts, but must scoot on. Perhaps I’ll have tome to add more tonight …and get it down for myself, too:)

January 3, 2013 at 8:48 am

qfbrenda

Veteran

RATE: Rough Around The Edges

I love the idea of reevaluating one’s style at the beginning of the new year. However, I can’t think of many changes I want to make besides spending less time acquiring. I already am doing better with that and in spite of all the Christmas sales going on, I couldn’t find anything I liked well enough to make a purchase. That’s just fine… I have enough.

I will continue to have a list of items I aim to gather, though I’m finding that I’ve been adding fewer things to the list lately. I don’t feel like I need one of everything. Fewer, better choices are fine with me.

Style-wise, I’m happy being classic with artsy jewelry elements thrown in here and there. Perhaps that will change someday but so far I’m good with it.

January 3, 2013 at 8:51 am

merwoman

Veteran

Love this post!
I feel that my style is cntinuing to evolve along a casual, polished androgynous look.
Over the last few months I have been more aware of garment drape and fit – and what I perceive to be flattering on my body type. I have found that with the right drape – a looser style is more flattering to my petite frame. This is quite a revelation as I used to be much more body con. So I will continue to explore fit and drape, and having fun getting dressed each day!

January 3, 2013 at 8:52 am

deb

Veteran

I love this post and reading everybodies hopes/goals. My own is to work on my spring/summer wardrobe, especially summer. I really like Vildy’s GoToHell idea. I will be watching her posts to see how she does this. I have been looking at the new longer shorts, also, and hope to make these a staple in my summer wardrobe. I love my skinnies and drapy tops, though and wonder how i will work them into the summer. I may just go as far as spring. However my style evolves, it will be fun going through the process!

January 3, 2013 at 8:56 am

clearlyclaire

Angie, you had me at “the new. long shorts shape for summer”! Do tell!

I loved reading your post this morning and learning that it’s okay to not be in a constant state of style evolution. I’m still trying to put my finger on where I am and where I want to go next. But I love watching you and everyone else on their journeys.

January 3, 2013 at 8:58 am

Vildy

Veteran

for Phoebe:

if you Google image “go to hell pants” you’ll see plenty. Good little primer here:
http://blog.brooksbrothers.com.....ell-pants/

Usually it’s pants but doesn’t have to be.

“Why you’d wear them.

Usually this would be a “where to wear them” section, but the wearer of go-to-hell pants is usually more concerned with “why” than “where.” That’s because, aside from the fact that wearing them is just plain fun, wearing go-to-hell pants can be treated as a game of style chicken with your friends. Except instead of going over a cliff in a ball of flames, you’ll be seen as the most daring dresser around.

How to pull them off.

In some sense, you’re going to dress like you’re not wearing anything out of the ordinary. The thing to remember is that while you’ve got on only one article of go-to-hell clothing—either pants or shorts—the rest of you should not be displaying this same attitude. ”

So, classic otherwise.

I like the idea of very tailored, structured go-to-hell wear as a new direction for me from more girly giddywear.

Traditionally worn on the weekend or vacation by guys with sedate conservative jobs.
But me, I’m kinda permanently on vacation. (I work hard but don’t have to show up anywhere and be soberly accountable)

January 3, 2013 at 9:00 am

Amy

(website)

Veteran

Angie, I enjoy reading your thought processes about your own style. Here is what I’m thinking about my own style:

– Strive for some drama ala class movie stars, but offset it with whimsical elements

– Combine classics with modern pieces

– Colour palette: black, grey, white and deep colors like navy blue, reds, purples, greens and mustard yellow, all spiced up with a dose of citron every now and then.

– More ladylike than boyish…I don’t think my figure works very well in masculine styles.

– Dressy and polished

– Interesting, artsy details like draping ruching, and pleats

– Romantic – lace and ruffles

– Add more colorful footwear

– Gold jewelry – I’d love a watch!

January 3, 2013 at 9:02 am

Vildy

Veteran

more than you want to know

http://www.ivy-style.com/damne.....-rake.html

January 3, 2013 at 9:06 am

Ceit

Heh, I don’t know if I want to be the most RATE member…doesn’t sound necessarily like a positive thing! Maybe I should work more on polish/refinement also

I am really enjoying reading everyone’s reflections!

January 3, 2013 at 9:06 am

fern

Veteran

Great reflections –
I built a very functional wardrobe in a (newly) limited palette in 2012, thanks to YLF – I’m so proud of myself!
So for 2013 I will limit my additions to quality pieces that continue to push my style descriptors further – should be fun!

January 3, 2013 at 9:43 am

nancylee

Veteran

Yay! I love posts about style evolution. To be honest, I haven’t had time to consider my style goals for 2013 yet. But this post got me thinking….

I feel very happy with my wardrobe basics and essentials at this point. What I’m looking for now are ways to up the ante on my style by adding new and interesting silhouettes (more modern/architectural pieces) and textures. I am very drawn to asymmetrical pieces lately.

I also need to improve my summer/hot weather wardrobe. I made a little progress last summer, but I still have a ways to go before I feel good about summer dressing. Suz’s comments really resonated with me: “A real goal is to find some really strong items that can stand on their own in our hot summers. This is not going to be easy. Summer style . . . is a real and ongoing challenge.”

January 3, 2013 at 9:47 am

Aziraphale

Veteran

It’s always interesting to read your thoughts on your personal style, as it helps me crystallize my thoughts about my own. Using your lists as a springboard, here are mine.

Aspects of my style that I’m in the mood to keep constant or continue to develop:

– equal parts boyish and ladylike (I’m SO with you on that one!)
– colour palette of predominantly dark neutrals, with some muted classics like burgundy and olive thrown in
– bright colours as accents
– not too strict, not too sloppy — casual chic?
– employ tailored as well as drapey
– a little bit retro, a little bit rock and roll
– wear knee-covering pencil skirts
– continue to explore different kinds of shirts with collars
– continue to experiment with belts
– continue to move away from girlish and cute, and toward chic sophisticated, with a little flair (I hope)

Changes I’m planning:

– revisit bootcut jeans
– find a way to make bright white work (first step: yesterday I bought a beautiful Brooks Brothers crisp white tailored shirt. First one ever!)
– pointed toe shoes or boots (look! Another crossover with your list!)
– incorporate pearls into the more rock and roll looks
– find the right pair of wool trousers

January 3, 2013 at 9:54 am

JuneBug

Veteran

Angie this is such a thought provoking post! I have a few of my own but most of my ideals are constant, it’s just that I need to stick to them more!

LIke for example while I appreciate the summery casualness of a midi styled boho dress, I cannot help but feel a little frumpy in them and so I had decided to stop investing in anymore pieces. The ones I have I belt and wear heels with, so the earthiness that the dress intended has already been modified to a more stylish (to my eye) appeal. Yet I see a pretty flowy print that does look good on me left loose in the store dressing room and buy it, only to feel completely different at home infront of my dressing room mirrors!

I plan to make better use of dress slips and shapewear- I thought I didn’t need them but then realized that the extra streamlined effect is sensational!

I mentioned in an earlier post my bad habit of never traveling with my favorite clothing and I must rectify that asap. And I must wear all the pieces I purchase or return them! Purging closet web collectors is another must for me! I would probably need a little longer to define properly my style goals for the year, but most would be centered around purchasing quality items that last longer than those trend based ones that look old in two seasons!

January 3, 2013 at 10:00 am

rachylou

Veteran

I love the sour brights!

This is my first personal style thought of the new year:

When I pay attention to style/design/fashion, I become ever more attracted to modern lines. Well, an alarm has gone off in my head. I think I need to watch out. I could be coming down with architect’s disease. That is, becoming more abstract, less grounded, and generally treating concept as equivalent to the real thing.

You know, heading for oohing and ahhing over prison gowns.

January 3, 2013 at 10:36 am

Beth Ann

Veteran

Thanks, Angie! It’s very helfpul and inspiring to be let into your thought process as you move forward in your own style.

For me, last year I created a rubric:
Form (structure) with Flow (softness and movement)
Energy (color, drama) with Ease (simple, approachable)

This has been very helpful, and my wardrobe finally “works” for the most part, but I still feel like I’ve not arrived at my dream destination.

in 2013:
Attention to affordable quality: This has been hard, since the brands I had been wearing were seriously vanity sized. I go up a good, full size when I move into better clothing.

Ease: While I still will buy tailored clothing, I crave more ease in fit. And, oh yes, the size goes up again. It’s just a label, it’s just a label, it’s just a label………….

PPP: Now that I have a wardrobe that is, for the most part, working, it’s time to only add 10s to the closet. I’m in no danger of going naked or wearing rags!

Remix and Remake: Devote time to remixing and altering clothing items

Sewing: I’d like to explore sewing spring skirts and tops — an easy way to rebuild my skills and be more creative.

I’ve read so many insightful posts today — I’m sure I’ll add some of your ideas to my plan!

January 3, 2013 at 10:52 am

Jamie

Veteran

Such a great post…very thought provoking. I’m sure my thoughts on this will continue to evolve, but for the year ahead, I see myself continuing to refine what I started in 2012. This will include:

– Adding to the color palette I have and discovering new colors I’ve not explored yet

– Adding more pattern and texture in the way of handbags, shoes, belts, jackets

– Adding more ink blue, white, and cream to my wardrobe

– Continuing my passion for trousers

– Hunting down low-heeled, comfortable footwear with a vengeance!

– Adding more modern elements to my style (I’m not sure how to do this exactly, but I’ll be paying attention to Angie’s guidance and everyone’s ideas carefully.)

– Continuing to improve my sewing skills and only add pieces that fit into my capsules

– Wearing little make-up and jewelry and hunting down a new oversized silver watch (I’m open to suggestions on this one!)

– Above all, keeping my style elements simple and clean

Hmm. Looks like I’ve thought more about this list than I thought!!

January 3, 2013 at 11:03 am

(website)

Veteran

Maybe it’s the long week with no days off or no coffee yet, but my goals are quite fuzzy at the moment. First and foremost, I need to make my uniform work for me now that I am back to work. That is what I wear 4 or 5 days a week after all. I have enough leeway in footwear and bottoms that I can tweak it a little, but overall a logo tee is not much to work with lol. Along those lines, I also need to make my purchases realistic to my current lifestyle and environment. Lastly, I have a goal to only purchase one item a month, so I want those to be the very best choice, mostly irregardless of price.
As for what I want to keep: more drape for me, continue to use statement shoes with more simple outfits, continue to explore a slight edge, or rocker chic touches, especially in jewelry.

January 3, 2013 at 11:09 am

krishnidoux

Veteran

Great post, and great comments too. Very good way of organizing our own thoughts about where we are going. I notice many members are, like you, in a happy place about their style.

I am not. I feel I haven’t totally found me style in 2012.

I remember last year’s resolutions for me was to dare more, to go outside the box, to try things I wouldn’t otherwise. And I did, as much as I could. I tried bright colours and new shapes. I found out, strangely, that for me it meant trying more preppy and conservative styles! I grew up with these style, rebelled for most of my adult life into an avant-garde-boho-chic direction, and now am coming back to them. My new plumper body makes it difficult for me to assess what fits or not.

In 2013, I will keep:

– exploring
– eating properly and taking care of my heatlh
– short hair
– buying quality brands. Through 2012’s purchases, I have found I like the following ones: Ralph Lauren, Talbot, London Fog, Fossil.
– building my wardrobe according to my lifestyle, climate and activities.
– booties

In 2013, I feel I will veer towards:

– more classic pieces
– higher waist pants
– more skirts and dresses
– navy, camel, ivory, gold
– nude and lighter colour footwear

January 3, 2013 at 11:31 am

RoseandJoan

Veteran

For the past two years I feel my style has been in flux but right now I feel it is starting to come together and I am content. In 2013 I would like to enjoy my style and to find consistency whilst still taking a risk.

My style continues to be soft and ladylike but I am now adding richness to the mix. It feels loyal to team polish but allows for more choices in terms of colour and texture.

In 2013 my classics are to be peppered with hectic trends (to use Angie’s descriptor).

I would also like to embrace the tailored fit, it may not always be the most fashionable, but I have to admit figure flattery is becoming more and more of a priority.

Plus, and this is the one I am going to hold myself accountable on, I will find the time to blow dry my hair every other day. I do not look fab with kinky unstyled hair, it does not make me look like a 20 year old rock chick it makes me look like a Mum who has not slept for a week!

January 3, 2013 at 11:42 am

Lyn D.

Veteran

In 2013 I want to continue shopping with more awareness of what I already have in my closet.
The one-in-one-out theory serves me well in this regard, as well as Angie’s P.P.P. mantra, which I have written down in my diary that I carry with me.
My style direction probably won’t change too much- casual, practical and comfortable, but I am aiming for less inexpensive trend items and more longer lasting timeless pieces . AND- to stick to my budget, now that YLF has helped me sort out what I really ‘need’ !

January 3, 2013 at 12:27 pm

MsMary

Veteran

After two full years of buying clothes like a madwoman, my goal for 2013 is to take a break, breathe, and enjoy wearing what I already have. Like Mo, I will be limiting my purchases to one per month and I’m also sticking strictly to my budget. More accurately, I am planning to limit my purchases to one per month but I’m allowing myself to save up items and money so, for example, I can buy more than one item on vacation in Paris in the fall if I’ve had months with no purchases before that.

January 3, 2013 at 12:30 pm

Day Vies

Veteran

Great post. I would never have guessed there was a desire to incorporate pointy-toe shoes into your wardrobe for 2013. (Who knew?)

As for me, well in 2013 I want to break down the wall between what I wear just to go to the grocery store (which is not slob wear by any stretch of the imagination) and what I wear to work. I believe my style is too segregated while I will never be able to wear jeans to work on a regular basis the outfit formula I use for jeans should also play well at work if that makes any sense.

I want more of a seamless blend, and while I like clean, crisp, classic lines, I also love some girly quirky things too. ( I can’t help the bombshell thing, I have to work with the material I’m given I want to develop a better blend rather than the either-or dynamic I have right now.

January 3, 2013 at 12:39 pm

Caro in Oz

Veteran

Another one who loves reading these posts:) Thanks Angie.
Since retiring a couple of years ago I’ve been fine-tuning my wardrobe for my “new” lifestyle & new city. I feel as though I’ve done the hard part, I know what I like & now just have to find it. The funny thing is I feel as though I’ve come back to my self so to speak.
Androgyny is my goal. My body is too round for boyish, so it will have to be a womanly version. I see this being expressed with soft structure, seams & darts & lighter fabrics but with basically masculine pieces.
Jackets & coats with ease are my main-stay they give my body structure.
Good shoes & lots of them. I can change my look with shoes & tops & have fewer better clothes.
I’m happy with one or two great bags.
I want fewer but better pieces & need to keep a tight hold on my eclectic side & not let it take over my wardrobe.
My main challenge is to maintain this look for summer, this is harder to do for me.

January 3, 2013 at 1:19 pm

Sihaya

Veteran

I don’t have any new goals style wise. I have an abundant wardrobe in which I go shopping with joy. And at most, I’ll likely find new ways to combine existing favorites. Your pointy toed shoes comment has me thinking Angie. I might experiment with new ways to wear my pointy toed shoes too.

January 3, 2013 at 1:37 pm

Mona

Veteran

THis is such an enlightening post. i loved reading your analysis of style but I have a few questions. What do you mean by strictness? Is it same as structured? What is refined menswear? Sorry to ask so many questions but I really want to understand these elements of style Angie. It will help me to analyze a little bit of my style.
Where I am right now on my style journey, I can’t even define my style. May be this should be one of the goals for 2013, to define my style. Will it making shopping easier?

January 3, 2013 at 2:15 pm

amiable

Veteran

Terrific post – I’m enjoying contemplating what I think my 2013 style goals should be. Here’s a stab:

– Develop a sense of style and what works for ME (taking and posting WIWs is the only way I know to do this, so as soon as I’m back to healthy, those will start up. You don’t really want pics of me in my pjs every day).

– Learn to be properly picky when I shop, and how to tell what will be a good acquisition.

– Pay real money for something perfect (The most expensive clothing items I currently own are my bras, bought on sale for $20. All of my shoes/boots were under $3 each, all of my coats under $6 each).

– Sew something high quality and well fitting for myself (maybe a coat, a jacket or a pair of trousers or jeans).

– Get a few (maybe several!) items in emulation of Amelia Earhart, my style icon, wear them, and see what I (and you all) think.

January 3, 2013 at 2:16 pm

morethanbeige

Veteran

Thought provoking! For me, I want to post more WIWs and not overthink what I’m wearing. I want to trust my intuition more and stress less about what others think. How about that?!

January 3, 2013 at 2:30 pm

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Great thoughts, ladies! I’m out of town and unable to respond in detail to comments because I’m typing from my phone.

Mona, strictness means the opposite of whimsical, arty and playful. Buttoned up! And to some degree structured, although I do love the oversized fit. My tailored fits are also on the roomy side. And refined menswear means exactly that – the type of clothing that gentleman wear :). Not tough, chunky or rugged. Boyish with polish if that makes sense.

January 3, 2013 at 3:36 pm

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

My style constants:
– mostly casual (due to my lifestyle & uniform for work)
– soft, drapey preferred over crisp
– layers essential for current state of body temperature confusion
– equal parts masculine/feminine
– equal parts minimal and boho (I have accepted these two disparate loves of mine can co-exist)
– equal parts classic and avant (see above comment)

Where I am interested in going:
– Embrace more European brands. I am allowing myself to purchase more full-priced European items, and for the most part these have been EXCELLENT choices as the styles are lasting more than one season.
– I can’t wait to see where we/I go this Spring!

January 3, 2013 at 6:57 pm

Ginkgo

Veteran

My style goals are what I’ve like on Europeans on the street, not the style blogs. That is clothes that fit well, that flatter the individual, are feminine in an understated way. I want to show that I cared about presenting myself well.

-shoot for casual elegance — but it has to be for a jeans lifestyle, not an “office” look
-more sophisticated look
-perfect fit
-wear more neutrals and/or monochromatic colors
-pointy-toed shoes
-jewelry or scarves
-use a little bit of makeup like blush

I saw some very simple but jaw-droppingly beautiful bags in Amsterdam last fall and was thinking that maybe the way to go would be to wear simpler (but perfect!) clothing and have a gorgeous bag to do the talking instead. And before YLF I kept my last daily bag for ten years! I’ve looked around various websites and haven’t found anything like the beautiful leather bags I saw in some Amsterdam boutiques.

This past year I have bought a half dozen pairs of shoes and am very happy with them. Booties, loafers, sandals — I’m set.

Even though I say I like simple clothing, I need interesting details or a necklace or scarf or color…or something. I’m not a minimalist; I need to wear something pretty to look better.

Off to stalk the internet to find my style role model.

January 3, 2013 at 8:48 pm

Vicki

(website)

Veteran

Outstanding blog post and one I’ve waited for. Thanks, Angie! I, too, don’t make a list of resolutions, but I do make a list of goals (really a wish list) that range from physical and health goals to career and creative goals along with intellectual, travel, community and home goals. I don’t often accomplish what’s on the list, but it’s the process of identifying what’s important to me in the new year, that I find significant. It’s simply a starting point.

This is a FAB list and dressy, polished simplicity with a touch of boyish-ladylike strictness and fun is my plan for 2013. I find myself grabbing for a jacket or blazer every time I go out to add a polished look and I’m grateful for all the jackets, blazers and coats you’ve shown in the past year to help me find my way, Angie.

I have a lot of pointy-toed kitten heels (mostly sling-back) and I’ve always loved them for their look and comfort. Coming in at a size 7-1/2 or 8, I’ve got long flat feet and an extra point doesn’t bother me with my boats.

You’ve got me intrigued by the new “long shorts shape for Summer” and I may have missed that along the way. Not being a “shorts” person, I’m open to what’s on the horizon. I’m still savoring your word, “strictness,” because I’m enchanted and enthralled with it in some strange way. I “think” I know you what you mean, but I’m not quite sure.

January 3, 2013 at 8:54 pm

jenanded

Veteran

Love to hear this Angie and everyone else! Angie, you surprise me wtth your comment on black…

I think I too will just seek to refine my look. I learnt so much in 2012 in terms of what I keep coming back to, what keeps being orphaned and have a resolution of keeping the elements I love and just updating them and adding some different zing to them.

For 2013 I want:
More refinement
A bit more european chic
A bit more ladylike
I want a fake fur tippet (for my 3 cold days but!) and wear it with pearls and silk
Realising and accepting that black can be one part of my wardrobe but that a range of blues blending to blue-greens and bluey magentas for the colour I love work better on me with white hair than reds and blues.
I would also like a more ladylike bag which I can wear on other days than my cross body bag

Sonia Delauney and 1930s are inspiring me – wide leg pyjama pants, feminine tops, fitted jackets, more refined shoes even if low heels, pearls, jewells and fur, long jackets, skirts and dresses…
I also will have a bit of a 70s influence, esp for suits and summer – I am living in 2 striped maxi dresses and a floppy hat, coveting the tuxedo jacket look

Oh and silver is my colour! (yeah Georg Jensen!!)

I have hired a session with a stylist which will happen in about 10 days time as a point of reference and an attempt to stop buying so much stuff :-S

January 3, 2013 at 11:52 pm

Alecia

Veteran

Lots to process so I took me a bit to get to this one. I am entering a new phase in my career and it’s making me revisit my thinking on clothes. My goals remain similar to what I’ve stated in the past, buying quality over quantity, trying to buy American or buying used when I can. With respect to the latter, I am not looking to buy lots of things but just trying to really live the goal of reusing and recycling. That means having a very clear perspective about what I need before shopping for second-hand stuff.

As for my style, I have been doing a lot of thinking lately about a short descriptor, a la UWP, to help me sum up my style and be a guidepost for shopping. Haven’t come up with it yet, but what I’m toying with is something like rock and roll boardroom chic. Obviously, still have some work to do.

January 4, 2013 at 10:11 am

Lisa

Veteran

Style constants
I still adore my jeans, boots, blazers, and scarves. Also the color blue. These will stay in my wardrobe.

Style changes
Black, I seem to wear more and more lately. I’m also starting to wear statement necklaces a little bit more in place of scarves. I recently purged most of my dresses from lack of wearing them and have no plans to purchase more. I’ve been wearing trousers more and that’s the first thing on my spring shopping list.

January 4, 2013 at 10:35 am

Joy

Veteran

As much as I love my jewelry and scarves, my style seems to be becoming more streamlined. I’m not sure where it will go this year but hope to get closer to the fab style of French ladies of a certain age. I’ll never be pretty but would like to aquire a bit of elegance. I suspect that may mean spending more on fewer items and that’s ok with me but I need to change my thinking. I plan to post more daily outfits for help on the journey.

January 4, 2013 at 9:10 pm

Annabeth

Keeping: my dresses and skirts, my oversized handbags, my ballet flats, my dangly earrings, a wide color palette.

Changing: growing my hair a little longer (though still not long), adding more jewelry without going overboard, daring to get a few more body-conscious clothing items, finding ways to “dress down” and yet stylishly

January 6, 2013 at 5:38 pm

Kari

Veteran

Angie, I always love your style evolution posts, and this is no exception. I’m also struck by one of your comments in this thread – first of all, you’re awfully skilled at specifically articulating exactly what you’re going after for not being a “words person!” You always nail down the best verbiage to describe what you’re aiming for. Second, I actually *do* process my thoughts best verbally – but when it comes time to describe my personal style, I have to work backwards in a way that I’m not used to. The words don’t come to me until I really look closely at photos of outfits I loved to wear, or outfits that I liked in theory, but that just didn’t feel right when I was wearing them. I’m still giving some thought to this before I really nail down my style goals this year.

One specific resolution, though – I feel like I’ve been falling back on wearing contacts too often, and I’m bored with that look. I’d like to wear my glasses much more often than I’ve been doing in the past year! (And it’s a cheaper option, too, as I don’t have to replace my contact lenses as frequently when I only wear them a couple times a week.)

January 6, 2013 at 8:09 pm

Kari

Veteran

P.S. Just wanted to add that I am VERY excited to hear that you want to wear white and cream more often. You look so stunning in your white-on-white textured ensembles and I always long to see more – your chunky sweater, your wool coat, your go-go boots… great pieces.

January 6, 2013 at 8:10 pm

Lena

Angie, it’s a treat to read about your thought process. And curiously, it helps me trust my intuition more.

I don’t make resolutions for the new year. However I will remind myself to practice more PPP, continue exploring menswear inspirations, not ignore my feminine clothes, and to combine masculine and feminine in a less fussy way. Less fuss. Remind myself to use more white/cream for accent or emphasis. Also continue to dig deeper and yet have fun and stay open minded.

January 7, 2013 at 10:46 pm

Sona

Veteran

be better dressed and more comfortably dressed in smmer- this is the biggest ‘evolution’ I plan for 2013. Meanwhile my artistic, eclectic, slenderizing goals stay constant. As do using atleast three of the 4 key essentials in my outfits: texture, color, pattern and shine.

and also adding a few new items each season to try the latest trends!

January 9, 2013 at 2:01 pm

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