The YLF community is impressively international. Our highest concentration of Fabbers are in the US, Canada, the UK and Europe. We also have Fabbers in Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, South Africa, South America, and the Middle East. It’s extraordinary how a subject like fashion and style can unite people across the globe. 

I’ve lived in the US for twenty years, and in Seattle, WA the entire time. My nationality is Dutch (from the Netherlands). I grew up and went to British schools in Hong Kong and Cape Town, South Africa. I speak and spell English the British way because that’s how I learned it at school.

For the most part, English in the US is the same as British English. But there are differences in the meanings of some specific words that I had to learn.

Here are some examples. The word used in the US is on the left, and the word that I was used to calling the item is on the right:

• Vest – Waistcoat
• Vest – Bodywarmer
• Vest – Gilet
• Camisole (undergarment) – Vest
• Sweater – Cardigan
• Sweater – Jumper
• Jumper – Pinafore
• Swimsuit – Bathing Costume, or “Cozzie”
• Barette – Hairclip
• Jeans Jacket – Denim Jacket
• Sweater Vest – Tank
• Pants – Trousers
• Panties – Knickers
• Thong – G-String
• Turtleneck – Poloneck

Now that I live in US I have mostly switched to using American wardrobe terminology when I work with my clientele and sales assistants, or chat to friends about wardrobe items. That way things aren’t lost in translation. The different meanings for the word vest and jumper can be particularly confusing. But when I’m elsewhere in the world, or speaking to hubs Greg and family, I switch to using the words I’ve used most of my life because that’s most natural. Similarly, in the US people call me Angie. In the rest of the world, people usually call me Angélique. I respond to both!

Care to add words to this list from your neck of the woods?

This one is for Team Wears A Lot of Black.

Browsing Scandinavian COS’s new Fall collection, I saw some interesting outfits with solid statement socks. Most of the outfits are black from head to toe, although there’s a smattering of grey, off-white, and tan. The shoes are black to match the black in the outfits. The socks are solid, slightly textured, and vary in colour. There is light blue, cobalt, bright green, light pink, off-white, shimmery grey, and shimmery copper. There are black socks too.

The shoes worn with the socks are refined loafers, Mary Janes, mules, sandals and slides. Most of the footwear is flat.

Some of the outfits are Summery while others look more transitional. The silhouettes are signature COS, which means for the most part voluminous, and somewhat architectural. If you wear a lot of solid black, the vibe might appeal to you. Wearing solid black from head to toe nods strongly to the late ‘90s and is right on-trend. Add a pair of statement socks, wear them with suitable black shoes, and you’ve achieved the 2023 version.

Marina Rinaldi showed a similar outfit formula in navy. Navy Bermuda shorts are combined with a navy sleeveless tunic shell top, and topped with a navy soft and unstructured long jacket. A waist-defining black belt adds subtle shine and texture. Black socks are worn with statement black and white platform sandals and match the belt. I see a white or neon green bag complete the outfit. Add jewellery, watch and eyewear as desired.

I’ve been having lots of fun perusing the archives of Messy Nessy Chic. Paris-based Vanessa Grall writes about everything from food to art and design, and today I’m sharing four of her articles on fashion in pop music:

• “The swashbuckling frilly shirts, waist-cinching belts, man brooches, contouring make-up, jodhpurs and jack boots — was Spandau Ballet the most underrated fashion statement of the 80s?“
• Meet Chinese-Dutch fashion designer Fong Leng, who dressed Kate Bush.
• The Strange Anatomy of ABBA’s (Tax-Deductible) Wardrobe.
• An Ode to Kasai Yamamoto, the Man Who Dressed Ziggy Stardust.

Fab Links from Our Members

Alyssa Beltempo gives great advice on how to fix clothes that aren’t “working” for you. Psst… there’s nothing wrong with your body. Nuancedream had to chuckle when Alyssa talks about ironing/steaming clothes as therapeutic because she enjoys doing it too!

For those in the US who prefer to shop in brick-and-mortar stores, Star thought this could be of interest. She adds: “Michelle had an extensive career in fashion and I do value her opinions.”

“How to Start an Edgy Classic Wardrobe Using Contrasting Style Types.” Carol likes the breeziness Emily Wheatley evokes with these clothes.

Jaime doubts low-slung baggy pants with a visible boxer waistband will become mainstream, but you never know!

Adina’s “Rooms for Living” post really resonated with Mary Beth: “It occurs to me that this entire article could be applied to my closet.”

“You don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money all at once to create a beautiful space; you just need time. A good part of the beauty of many of those interiors I admired was derived from the fact that they were collected and curated — perfected, if you will — over many years.”

The best beauty tip to give someone in their youth? Start caring for your skin now and do so forever. If you’re older, it also applies. It’s never too early or too late to begin an effective skincare regimen. Like any other organ, your skin is yours for life. 

Skin can be sensitive, reactive, and prone to irritation. It changes over time. If you’re struggling with your skin, consider seeking the help of a medical professional instead of trying to figure out solutions all on your own. The right advice goes a long way.

Choose a daily skincare regimen you can manage and afford. Protect exposed hands and feet with sunscreen. Cover up with a hat and clothing if you can’t wear sunscreen. Look at aging skin with kind eyes. It deserves your support, not your disapproval.