Sunny Shades of Sherbet

A new outfit from Susanne Ackstaller of Texterella, whom we introduced to YLF in October 2019.

Susanne pairs delicious shades of sherbet with crisp white in this casual trouser look. She’s wearing a relaxed-fit button-down tunic over cropped wide leg watermelon trousers. Keeping the shirt untucked emphasizes the easy breezy nonchalant Summer vibe. A longer shirt in juicy orange is worn open and functions as a light-weight topper in warmer temps. White platform sneakers pick up the white in the shirt, while the jute soles nod back to our blogger’s playful coral straw hat that ties in perfectly with the rest of the colour palette. The orange part of her “knitted” bag matches the topper. The raspberry part brings a fourth colour into the mix, and makes everything pop even more. Tomato red lippy, a gold ring, dainty dangly earrings, and a classic watch add the polished finishing touches.

Susanne Ackstaller - 2

Susanne Ackstaller - 1

* Photos by Martina Klein Fotografie, Berlin

Trend: Western Boots

Boots with a western integrity are iconic classics, much like Dr. Martens. They can be worn with just about anything these days, by anyone, and throughout the year. Every so often, iconic classics have their fashion moment when they get a little more love and attention than normal. Western boots are having theirs right now. 

There are many different flavours of the western boot. Authentic cowboy boots are a form of western boot and themselves have a lot of variety. Some boots are a simple and subtle nod to the western aesthetic, whereas others are dramatic and ornate. Western boots come in any colour, and in solids or patterns. Some boots are embroidered or trimmed with hardware. Most western boots are low-heeled, but flat and high-heeled versions are available too. Western boots can be ankle length and taller. Western mules and shooties are not uncommon either. Some boots have spat detailing.

This collection shows some examples.

Zappos
Corral Boots L5969
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Top Pick
3
Zappos
Old Gringo Nevada
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3
Zappos
Corral Boots Z5139
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2
Zappos
Old Gringo Mayra Bis
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2
Zappos
Dingo Let 'Er Buck
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1
Shopbop
MISA Charlotte Dress
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4
Zara
Wedge Cowboy Boots
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2

In some parts of the US, cowboy boots are part of the culture, and worn very frequently. When I visit these places I’m in awe of how fabulously people wear and style their cowboy boots in all sorts of outfits. A pleasure to see.

Personally, I like western boots, and cowboy boots in particular. I remember how on-trend they were in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s when I had a light brown pair. I loved wearing them with my Levi’s 501s. I had a pair of Miz Mooz lime green cowboy boots fourteen years ago that I adored, and wore into the ground. They were very comfy, packed a punch, and I much enjoyed pairing them with flared jeans. Our friend Inge had the same pair in an ochre yellow, and found them versatile. I’ve tried to get the same or a similar pair, but no luck so far. Miz Mooz is selling a version of the same western boot all these years later, but not in that colour. They must do well at retail. They are an iconic classic with a high longevity factor. I’m keeping the white, tan, and whiskey colour options on my radar.

I’ve also had my fair share of western-looking Frye boots. They were fantastic, until I could no longer walk in the higher heels, or the toe boxes started rubbing. They are great robust boots to sport in all sorts of wet Seattle weather.

Over to you. Are you a yay or nay for this trend? Do you wear western boots?

Maintain Your Standards When Shopping the Sales

Shop discounted prices, but be a savvy sale shopper. Shop with a plan and with intention. Do not be seduced by anything that does not work for you, does not have a place in your wardrobe, or is difficult to style. Keep your standards as high as always. 

Beware of the Bargain

Don’t succumb to the fear of missing out. Relax into missing the bargain if you’re not entirely sure it’s the right thing for you. There is always something better and less risky just around the corner. Your wallet and wardrobe will thank you in the long run.

You don’t need to buy everything on sale. If you love it, can afford it, and can store it, consider buying it at full price. Especially if it sells out fast, fills a wardrobe hole, is unique or exclusive, or you need it for an upcoming event. You are worth full price.

Roundups

Simpler Items

This week's list of top picks list is about basic pieces.

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Assorted Items

Items for Summer, both in and out of air conditioning.

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Casual Summer Vibes

This week's top picks are good for a casual Summer vibe.

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Summery Earth Tones

These items are for those who like to wear casual earth tones in warm and hot weather.

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Hints of Spring

Some tried-and-tested winning items to refresh your style for Spring.

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Dressier Items

An assortment of dressier top picks might be just what the doctor ordered.

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Fab Find: Clarks Coast Shine Fisherman Sandal

We are on vacation and there will be fewer posts than usual until September 18.

If you’re after a super cute sandal that can accommodate a wider foot, the Clarks Coast Shine Fisherman Sandal has been a winner on some of our forum members. They are especially roomy in the WIDE width. There’s a good amount of room in the toe area in the regular width, and the heel strap is quite secure. They are cushioning and supportive. The comfort level is heavenly on the feet!

The platform silhouette is on-trend, and the appearance is chunky on the foot. If you don’t enjoy wearing chunky footwear, pass on the style. 

You’ll find them discounted at some retailers.

Fashion News Roundup: August 2023

An unexpected timepiece is trending, the Met’s new Fall exhibition, microscopic bag, high demand for vintage Gap clothing, the death of Jane Birkin, and other other fashion news that made headlines this month.

Fashion Quote

Photographer Jannine Newman doesn’t like having her photograph taken. I have a feeling what she wrote in her Instagram post, will strike a chord with many of us:

“I guess I feel my age sometimes. I try to balance it with, ‘you’re still alive, just get over yourself,’ but you know, I’m just human and sometimes I struggle a bit. So here is my message to the older woman. You are marvellous and you have a voice. You are not washed up or worthless, and if you look back at your life, no matter what came your way, children or not, love or not, career or not, the greatest gift you can give yourself is respect, for having navigated the highs and the lows, the tributaries and storms of life, and realise that it’s not about the lines on your face or the slightly wider waist, but it’s about respecting your fortitude and strength as a woman.”