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YouLookFab Forum » Forum: General - Recent Topics https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/forum/everything-else Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 26 May 2026 09:11:08 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Janet on "Pointy-toe flat love" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/pointy-toe-flat-love#post-2413813 Mon, 25 May 2026 13:46:08 +0000 Janet 2413813@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ These Coclico shoes came across my social media feed. Drooling. I have my one pair of pointed-toe flats (in Find below) that I’ve worn a LOT, even though I typically go straight from boots to open-toe sandals when the seasons change. They’ve ended up being more wearable and versatile than I expected. This particular pair reminds me of some I had in the early days of YLF. I think they were Jeffrey Campbell and had that iridescent finish, but they were a sort of gladiator style that was not super comfortable and I wore them infrequently. I wish these were less expensive. I love a pointed-toe flat regardless of trend (not a big fan of a round toe), so these are timeless for me. I don’t know if I’ll try them but they are so cute I wanted to share. There is a low-heeled version too, for something a little dressier. <a href="https://coclico.com/products/celeste-t-strap-flat-carbon?variant=42799664201794" rel="nofollow">https://coclico.com/products/c.....9664201794</a> Angie on "East Coasters: NYC Gatherings: FINAL DATES!!! Book your Trips!" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/east-coasters-nyc-gathering-brainstorm#post-2412351 Tue, 05 May 2026 22:04:16 +0000 Angie 2412351@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ The exceptionally KILLER Seattle gatherings celebrating 20 years of YLF are behind us. They exceeded my high expectations and were sooooo awesome! Onward to NYC. I'm grateful for your thoughts and guidance, please :)  Timing: I'm thinking June or Sept. Possibly Oct. Which month is best?  Days of the week: Friday, Saturday and possibly Sunday. What do you think?  Locals and NYC aficionados: I've been to NYC more times than I can count, but it's been 13 years since I was last there! I no longer know it as well as I used to. I will need - and greatly appreciate!!! - your help organizing the gathering there. Where to stay, eat, shop, look, and walk!  All Fabbers welcome! Let the planning begin. Bring on your thoughts xo ETA: FINAL DATES: (I've booked my fights and accommodation) There will be TWO gatherings in Manhattan: Friday Sept 18: For anyone who is already in NYC and wants to shop and hang out with me!  Sat Sept 19: The OFFICIAL BIG gathering.  Details of where to meet, TBC. We will need a sense of numbers before we can book restaurants.  BOOK YOUR TRIPS!!!  Inge on "Seattle Fabiversary Wardrobe Refresh" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/seattle-fabiversary-wardrobe-refresh#post-2413541 Thu, 21 May 2026 18:10:46 +0000 Inge 2413541@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <div>Hi everyone,</div><div> </div><div>It took me a while but I'm so excited to share my Seattle treasures with you. I spent two spectacular weeks with Angie and Greg in Seattle and am still on a high!-) It was a whirlwind of brilliant company, delicious food, excellent shopping, doggy snuggles, and beautiful city walks. Very special!</div><div> </div><div>One of the absolute highlights, of course, is that I was able to celebrate YLF's 20th Anniversary IN Seattle with Angie, Greg, Sam, Jo and all the wonderful Fabbers who came to celebrate with us, both for the two big meet-ups and hanging out with smaller groups in between. We had a blast and I'm so grateful and chuffed that I got to spend quality time with each and every one of you! I already knew this from past experience, but it still gives me the warm fuzzies how it just clicks when amazing, wise, and kind women from all over the US and world meet irl and there's an immediate bond. YLF is unparalleled!! Thank you so much Angie and Greg!!!</div><div> </div><div>I had done hardly any shopping since I got sick two years ago, and really needed a bit of a wardrobe refresh. High on the list were a few new jeans and sneakers, which I found and then some:-)</div><div> </div><div>It wasn't planned but, except for the pink & purple sneakers, I ended up with all blue items with a bit of white mixed in. Which is perfect because I wear a lot of blue and all the new pieces work seamlessly with the rest of my wardrobe.</div><div> </div><div>Finding great jeans can be hard but I had a lot of fun trying on jeans with Angie, Sharan and Vicki, and they made the process feel easy.</div><div>- Kut from the Kloth two-tone wide leg jeans: I love how the two-tone effect is a little different and creates visual interest.</div><div> </div><div>- Levi's Low Loose jeans: These are an on-trend slouchy straight leg fit that is described as having a low rise. I'm not the biggest fan of low rise on myself but these don't feel too low rise at all.</div><div> </div><div>- The Wit and Wisdom Gracie jeans are a wide leg that looks a bit like trouser jeans. They have a double side seam that gives the effect of a subtle decorative side stripe. Fun!</div><div> </div><div>- I immediately loved the bright blue of the Talbots raincoat and its slightly dressier feel. Then Angie pointed out the striped lining and white buttons, and I was sold!-) It's waterproof and has a hood, perfect for walking Felix.</div><div> </div><div>- The Talbots navy crew neck sweater is a lighter weight sweater in pretty pointelle, wonderful for our Spring.</div><div> </div><div>- I'd been admiring cropped trench coats on Angie and many Fabbers and was thrilled to find this navy Aritzia trench. The clean lines and dressier vibe appealed to me, and it works great with more voluminous bottoms.</div><div> </div><div>- Angie and Kyle encouraged me to try on the Aritzia Effortless Pant in a pinstripe. I was convinced pretty fast:-) Angie is not exaggerating when she says <a rel="nofollow" href="https://youlookfab.com/2026/05/11/fab-finds-bottoms/">the drape and feel of the fabric are sublime</a>! They look a bit more tailored on me compared to a more slouchy fit on Angie.</div><div> </div><div>- I could not go home without something striped and the gorgeously crisp material and dressy integrity made this blue and white striped Ralph Lauren shirt a no-brainer.</div><div> </div><div>- The striped Ralph Lauren boat neck sweater has a nice fluid fit and is great for polished casual looks.</div><div> </div><div>- Branching out from stripes:-) with the blue and white gingham Tommy Hilfiger shirt. I love the roll-tab sleeves and how breezy and fresh it feels for warmer weather.</div><div> </div><div>- Finding footwear that works with my orthotics can be tricky. I tried on quite a few pairs at Nordstrom and came home with these white Brooks Glycerin sneakers. The light blue laces and light buttery yellow accents are a fun touch. Very comfortable!</div><div> </div><div>- The pink, purple and watermelon Skechers were truly teamwork!-) Suz and Angie kept running up and down the aisles of the downtown Nordstrom Rack for me, determined to find me great-fitting sneakers. I tried on soooo many pairs (thank you so much for your patience Suz and Angie!!), and then Suz found me these winners:-)</div><div> </div><div>I've already been wearing the heck out of many of my new treasures and couldn't be more happy with everything. They feel extra special because I have such brilliant memories of shopping for them with Angie and all my lovely YLF friends. It makes me smile so much!! THANK YOU!!</div><div> </div><div>And thank you for reading this novel;-)</div><div> </div><div> </div> lyn67 on "Uploading picties of HEIC format on the Forum Threads" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/uploading-picties-of-heic-format-on-the-forum-threads#post-2413547 Thu, 21 May 2026 19:09:05 +0000 lyn67 2413547@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi, DFabbers, Just wanted to ask how can I upload picties of HEIC format in the forum? I keep getting comments like: "IMG_xxxx.HEIC has invalid extension. Only jpg, jpeg, png, JPG, JPEG are allowed". Is this a particularity of the YLF Forum format? I don't have problems to upload picties elswhere on the net... In the past, when I was more active here I was uploading my picties no problem (always from iPhones). So, all my picties are this format and I really don't have the knowledge to convert them... Can somebody pls. help me? Thanx so much, Carla on "A clever accessory!" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-clever-accessory#post-2413417 Wed, 20 May 2026 05:46:22 +0000 Carla 2413417@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Found this nifty little accessory on the Simons (a Canadian department store) website.  Kind of like a dicky - only for the bottom of a top.   <div> </div><div>It’s a clever, and inexpensive ($20 CAD) way to incorporate the lace trend.</div> Janet on "Pins/brooches" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/pinsbrooches#post-2413158 Sun, 17 May 2026 13:43:36 +0000 Janet 2413158@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Inspired by Ket’s recent post, I pulled out my little collection of brooches/pins as I was straightening up my jewelry yesterday. Thought I’d take a pic of the collection just for fun. It’s getting very warm here, and I think pins lend themselves to more cool-weather fabrications, so I probably won’t put these into play until the fall, but still it was good to look at these with a fresh eye to see possibilities. Many of them need a good polishing! Pic 1 - various ones I purchased myself, ranging from about 1990 to 2015ish. The ginkgo leaf is the newest. A couple of them can be worn as pendants as well. Pic 2 - these were all my mom’s, ranging from the 1940s-90s. I wear some of these occasionally. I Iike the sword and the knight for a little unexpected detail — those were from when my mom was very young. I never saw her wear them in person but there are photos of her as a teen wearing them. And remember how popular marcasite was? She had a whole collection of those! I remember giving one of those to her as a gift. The tiny cat was mine as a child. The round one on the bottom right is actually a scarf clip. Pic 3 - also inherited from my mom, these are more whimsical and not really fitting my style, also because I don’t wear much gold, but they make me smile and bring back childhood memories. I would wear the owl! The little Dutch boy and girl are articulated, which is a charming detail. Ket, thanks for the inspiration! Star (Lise) on "80% Viscose/20% Linen" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/80-viscose20-linen#post-2412844 Wed, 13 May 2026 13:43:54 +0000 Star (Lise) 2412844@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hello Does anyone have experience with items made from 80% viscose and 20% linen?  I know that 100% viscose does not hold up well when wet (laundering) and mixing it with other fabric types stabilises it BUT is 20% linen enough? I spotted a white top made from this mix that draped really nicely but I don't want an item I need to hand wash or gentle cycle. Thanks! LJP on "Angie, Allison (Bornstein ) and the forum. A reset." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/angie-allison-bornstein-and-the-forum-a-reset#post-2412539 Thu, 07 May 2026 23:05:22 +0000 LJP 2412539@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I last posted my (seemingly ) annual Spring style meltdown and received some fantastic ideas, and lots of support. One of my best traits is that when given a mission, even if I create it, I act quickly and thoroughly. No half-baked measures here. I pulled out Wear it Well, which I bought upon release and then never read (ouch) , sat down with a pen , and started reading and making notes. It took me a few evenings to complete but I was left with a clear plan. That's Allison's part. I found this book very useful. Angie was the first to suggest I stop treating my work and personal time wardrobes as two separate entities . I resisted, at first, but then really warmed up to the idea when I used Allison's method of sorting out your clothing and pulling out the pieces that are holding me back . I do this often, but still had a ways to go and really went deep this time. I determined my core colours and accents - swatches below- and used this to pull together the pieces I want to wear moving forward . I sorted my closet by item type, and then colour within, and my black "work only" pieces are now in several places in my closet instead of on one rail. It's been very eye-opening . Fewer colours , almost no patterns. The next step in Allison's book (although I did this first to help me do the sorting and editing ) was to figure out my 3-word style identity. I've not done this before. I picked 3 words that are meaningful to me . First word is to be your practical word defined by the pieces you wear regularly = Modern. Second word is something aspirational and where creativity and growth can happen = Fashion Forward . This was the toughest one, so please don't cringe at it - it will be a work in progress and I'm not sure this is quite the word I want. Placeholder. Third word describes how you want to feel in your clothes = Elegant/(or Polished). AB suggests 9 core pieces - and stresses that these are to be modified to suit your 3 words - and she shows you how. 1. The White Tshirt. I discovered I have too many and only wear 1 or 2. Pulled out the ones that weren't perfect and kept 2. The Button Down shirt . I'm not good at this category and feel like a man wearing one, but have now learned what to do with it, and have a brown linen or cotton shirt on my to-buy list . Probably not a traditional button down - but I'll know it when I see it. 3. The Black Turtleneck - don't have one but have tabled this for fall. 4. Cozy Sweater - I'm covered here. 5. The Blazer - this is where my juices started flowing. I have not worn a blazer in a few years, but AB loves it with everything as did I ! I felt excited to polish up my look by wearing one instead of my usual shapeless casual jackets - have a natural linen one from a few years ago ready to be worn right now. The 3 key words again reminded me that I do like dressing up somewhat and have let my look get too casual. 6. The trench coat . I have this but could be talked into a long swooshy super-lightweight non-traditional Mac or modified trench in tan . We'll see. 7. Denim - I think I'm good for now - will revisit in Fall. 8. Trousers - I'm good. 9. A belt - don't wear but want to experiment and try again for the added polish . Now don't all come at me with " I don't believe in those must-have lists". I get it. But I'm doing this exercise as it fits within the context of her method. I also have found a current style muse in Lucy Alston . Her IG and Substack are great and I love her style. I’ve also attached a hair goal - we’ll see how realistic this is . This is the first time in my life I've set a palette and am very excited to work with it. The red/pale blue/mid blue are the pops of colour I sometimes crave but will be purchased in bags/shoes/accessories and MAYBE the odd top . The neutrals speak for themselves. I'm also stepping away from olive green after a decade of it being my most represented colour. I have lots, but don't want to add more. I have pledged to up my jewellery game on weekends and to use the beautiful things I have . That long whiny post served me up some great ideas and I'm grateful for all of your comments. For anyone looking for a fresh start - I highly recommend AB's book. And Angie's quiet wisdom . Thank you for reading :). bj1111 on "YLF @ NYC?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ylf-nyc#post-2412478 Thu, 07 May 2026 10:41:01 +0000 bj1111 2412478@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Coz I’m saving up my pennies to shop with all that fab ladies Janet on "Adjustable pant hem clips?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/adjustable-pant-hem-clips#post-2412071 Sun, 03 May 2026 15:44:11 +0000 Janet 2412071@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Somewhere on social media I saw someone singing the praises of adjustable pant hem clips for making hems temporarily shorter, and the idea appeals to me for some pants I have that could use a slight adjustment to be worn with super flat shoes so I don’t step on the back of the hems, but I don’t want to hem them permanently. Anyone here have experience with such a thing? I found these on Amazon (even though I have withdrawn nearly all my purchasing from Amazon). They look a little clunky to me. <a href="https://a.co/d/05UW9IgU" rel="nofollow">https://a.co/d/05UW9IgU</a> MsMaven on "Who's watching the Met Gala entrances?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/whos-watching-the-met-gala-entrances#post-2412231 Mon, 04 May 2026 23:32:26 +0000 MsMaven 2412231@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ New York Times is keeping us updated. I'm having a lot of fun watching--I don't remember doing this before--I usually look at  selection of photos later. However, today I'm recovering from a tooth extraction and have to take it easy. A great way to recover--sitting on my sofa with my cat, Sharkie, who has absolutely no interest in fashion. Some fabulous looks! Venus Williams--Wow. Just Wow.  <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/04/style/met-gala-red-carpet-photos.html">https://www.nytimes.com/2026/0.....hotos.html</a> The dress code is Fashion is Art. LJP on "My consignment experience . Ugh. eta to add a successful 2nd round" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/my-consignment-experience-ugh#post-2411975 Fri, 01 May 2026 19:24:39 +0000 LJP 2411975@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I had my hat handed to me today by what I thought was an upscale consignment store . Or so it was when I last lived in that neighbourhood.  I first tried to take my carefully folded and packed things in last weekend but was told they take goods Monday-Friday only.  Back again today, circled the block a few times looking for parking, finally found a spot , and went in. Packed to the rafters with stuff - bags hanging everywhere.  All looking colorful and crazy, which kind of put me off, but that doesn't matter. It was bought a year or two ago by a group of Ukrainian immigrant women, as it turns out, and they have a very different aesthetic , which is fine....but my things clearly did not hit the mark. The owner went through my box of purses, which included a vintage Prada, an almost brand new leather Coach special edition bag, a brand new nylon Baggu,  a Madewell leather/canvas tote, a Banana Republic leather bag - all in MINT condition ...and my bag of clothing which included a few new-with-tags pieces from Aritizia, Free People, and Banana Republic. A pair of sandals that had been worn once.  A Ralph Lauren Polo Bear t-shirt .  Looked at it all dismissively, asked me if I had a receipt for the Prada bag (???!!!) and not even politely declined. "Nothing today", she said . I asked for some feedback, and she said " oh many decisions go into it".   A frustrating waste of valuable time .  Also a funny reminder that your things are only as lovely as they are to you.  Janet on "Speaking of eggplant" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/speaking-of-eggplant#post-2411964 Fri, 01 May 2026 18:23:57 +0000 Janet 2411964@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ In the Rack with a friend who is shopping for shoes for a trip and saw these. Super comfy and don’t slip off my heels! Rothy’s, which I’ve never tried before. Perhaps a bit more plum than eggplant. Could be nice for a little pop with outfits with olive, blue, or neutrals. I’m considering them! And yes, I am wearing the Ruti pants today! Team Wear reporting. Suz on "On the practicality of the trendy short trench." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/on-the-practicality-of-the-trendy-short-trench#post-2411784 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:27:50 +0000 Suz 2411784@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I want to take a controversial position and stick up for the short trench as actual rainwear.  Actual rainwear, you are thinking. Ha! Poor Suz. She's lost her senses. Ok. But hear me out.  I think it's agreed -- there's nobody on the forum more sniffish about "seasonal confusion" than me -- and I see it everywhere. EVERYWHERE!! Granted, my views have been moderated by the experience of moving to a new climate, where I have learned that what is seasonal confusion in one part of the world may be plain good sense -- or at least not impractical --  in another. Bare ankles and toques or beanies, for instance. This combo makes no sense for winters in Ontario, where I used to live. Whereas on some winter days here on the wet coast, and for some people, who run warmish, it can work quite well. Short trench coats were available last year and maybe even the year before. I was immediately drawn to the look. But I scoffed. I mean I literally laughed out loud. Who needs a raincoat that will not keep them dry? As you know, I have since bought one of these babies myself. And I love it! It's a workhorse! And not just because the proportions work with wide legs, which I like to wear.  Here's why: My own short trench does keep me dry. Admittedly, mine is a gearish version with a hood. And admittedly, I haven't walked for hours in a downpour while wearing it.  But here's the thing. While downpours and atmospheric rivers do occur where I live, and require more serious rainwear, most spring days are not like that.  Most days, the forecast is for intermittent showers, with a mere possibility of more serious rain. And it turns out, the short trench is perfect for such weather.   For the more serious rain, an umbrella or longer rainwear or both are required. But those days become less and less common as winter turns into spring.  In short, if you get the kind of rain that is more common back east, I.e. constant downpour or thunderstorm, then no, these jackets won't work, except for style and possibly wind coverage. But if you live in a climate like mine, this is a surprisingly practical piece of clothing.  So: who's with me? Short trenches can be practical: Vote YAY.  Short trenches are a seasonally confused fashion idiocy where I live: Vote NAY!  Encore on "Long or crop trench" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/long-or-crop-trench-1#post-2411749 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 02:29:36 +0000 Encore 2411749@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I just purchased a Gap full length belt-less trench - a consignment shop find at a super great price! My daughter just returned from Paris and said the current trend is cropped trench. So now I don’t know if I should stick with the classic full length (and pay extra $$ to have the sleeves shortened as roll up doesnt have a finished look) or be trendy and try cropped style??? Your feedback is appreciated! Encore on "Long or crop trench" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/long-or-crop-trench#post-2411748 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 02:28:20 +0000 Encore 2411748@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I just purchased a Gap full length belt-less trench - a consignment shop find at a super great price! My daughter just returned from Paris and said the current trend is cropped trench. So now I don’t know if I should stick with the classic full length (and pay extra $$ to have the sleeves shortened as roll up doesnt have a finished look) or be trendy and try cropped style??? Your feedback is appreciated! Janet on "Kicking myself - “white” sandal search update" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/kicking-myself#post-2410974 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:47:21 +0000 Janet 2410974@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I gave away my white lug-soled fisherman sandals at the end of last summer because they were seeming a little worse for wear, and I’d tired of them a bit. Now I wish I still had them! Something about the presence of a substantial-soled white sandal is appealing to me this season, even though it might not be trending hard anymore. I think I’m seeking some edge, but in a white sandal, which is hard to find. Not so flat. I have white flip-flops and I’m not feeling them yet (I think they will come back into rotation later, in the summer months). I ordered these to try, but several years ago I tried some Fly London and the fit was too wide. The vibe is what I like, and my feet may have changed a little, so I decided to try again. Also thinking of those crazy Sorels because Sorel has worked for me well in the past, and the Nero Giardini ones. The platforms add a bit more presence. Any other suggestions to try? Carla on "Linen - a love affair?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/linen---a-love-affair#post-2411077 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:06:28 +0000 Carla 2411077@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think (hope) I’ve cracked the ‘hot summer’ comfort codes, and I’m really looking forward to wearing my linen garments again this summer.  I’ve added a new long sleeved light blue shirt from Uniqlo, and whilst sifting through items on offer at MWWH (Canadian brand Mark’s Work Wear House) I spotted what I think are the same pleated linen Bermudas (see below) but in new colourways! Are you a linen lover? <div> </div><div> </div> Debbie on "Something fun" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/something-fun#post-2410854 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 18:27:24 +0000 Debbie 2410854@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have not been able to get out much lately due to my husband’s health. Yesterday I went to Traders Joes and the Loft is across the street. I remember seeing an email saying they were having a preview and a contest. I decided I had a few minutes and I would look. I looked around didn’t have time to try anything on but I registered for the outfit. I WON! They called last night. I won 3 pieces 2 clothing and one accessory. I am excited. I will made some time this week to go try them. I will post what I get. Peri on "Thoughts on florals" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-florals#post-2411580 Sun, 26 Apr 2026 23:08:19 +0000 Peri 2411580@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I was surprised in LJP's post that many responses said that florals are the hardest pattern to wear. To me they are the easiest and the pattern I'm most drawn to. I always feel like graphics are harder...stripes, polka dots, checks, plaid, etc. I have a few striped tops and one polka dot and I feel "okay" when I wear them, but not really fantastic. I feel really off in plaid and don't own any anymore. Somehow all those seem more cheery, or energetic, or upbeat than I often feel.  Food for thought. Suz said that people who like florals tend to like a specific kind. I do fall in the dark floral family. All of my florals are on a black or navy background, and they just hit me as really beautiful. Some are big and bold, and others are small, but they are all dark florals, and for me they feel more restful than energetic. I would have loved this top I ordered:  <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/crystal-anna-floral-t-shirt/8733533?origin=coordinating-8733533-0-1-PDP_1-recbot-vertex_ymal_v3&recs_placement=PDP_1&recs_strategy=vertex_ymal_v3&recs_source=recbot&recs_page_type=product&recs_seed=8468435&color=BLACK&size=small">https://www.nordstrom.com/s/cr.....3-0-1-PDP_</a> Sadly I had to return it. AllSaints used to do beautiful printing (silk screen, I'm not sure) but this was that rubbery feeling overlay that I can't tolerate. Sad decline in quality. But it is an example of the florals I love. Nothing sweet or shy about it, but still it feels soothing. (And sorry, Finds is still not working for me. Angie said it was fixed so I think the problem is on my end. Some privacy setting or such that I'm not aware of.) Anyway, where do you fall? Are florals the hardest to wear or not?  Angie on "FABIVERSARY SEATTLE GATHERING #2" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/fabiversary-seattle-gathering-2#post-2411312 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 23:33:51 +0000 Angie 2411312@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ It was a perfectly sunny and mild Seattle Spring weekend, which put everyone into an extra smiley good mood :)  Another KILLER to the Power of KILLER gathering! The fab pics are just the very tip of the iceberg.  WE HAD SOOO MUCH FUN!!! Our day began at 9.15am, and ended with a smaller group at 10pm. Again - our time together was too short. As Nuancedream said - we need to have MORE gatherings! I agreed.  Kathleen (K. Period) came from Oregon! Suz came from Canada! Andrea (Nuancedreeam), Sharan (Firecracker), Nicole (Kathleen's friend and new fellow Fabber), and me are local Seattleites. And of course - Inge came from Antwerp! An absolutely INCREDIBLE mix of people!!! I'd met every Fabber before and many times - but others were meeting for the first time. Everyone was instantly comfortable, chatty, warm, in good spirits, STYLISH!!!, and supportive of one another. In my 20 years of YLF gatherings, this happens every time Fabbers meet from across the globe as "strangers". There is zero awkwardness, and immediate bonding and mutual respect. People are instantly at ease and get on like a house on fire. It's a beautiful thing.  There was loads of laughing, cerebral conversation, sharing of emotions, trying on of clothes, eating, sitting in the sun, and excellent shopping! We filled University Village - and each other - with therapeutic magic! The positive energy and camaraderie is contagious, and very welcome.  Everyone shopped and bought treasures! I'll leave that to individual Fabbers to share and discuss in separate threads so they get due attention.  I'll share the next round of treasures I bought that day: After a LOT of Spring and Summer shopping this year - (after all, I'm celebrating 20 years and Spring is my favourite shopping season) - I was allowed to add to my wardrobe as long as it was BRIGHT, and not neutral. I'm into cotton fashion sweatshirts at the moment, and found two sentimental beauties. Both items are from Los Angeles based French Company Clare V. We used to live in France, so they are 100% authentic:  1. Clare V "Pas Mal" sweatshirt (Pic #32) in tomato red. Gorgeous fabric, fit, and colour. Made in Portugal. We said "Pas Mal" a lot when we lived in Fontainebleau. It means "Not Bad". 2. Clare V "Ca Suffit!" sweatshirt (Pics #34 - #35) in Dutch orange. Gorgeous fabric, oversized fit, and delicious colour. Made in the USA. The proceeds of this sweatshirt goes to a nonprofit organization devoted to ending gun violence. 'Ca Suffit" means "That's Enough".  LOVE THESE ITEMS SOOOO MUCH! And finding them with amazing Fabbers on that amazing day makes it even sweeter!  The next day, Suz, Inge and I continued shopping at the downtown flagship Nordstrom and The Rack, where Suz hit the JACKPOT, and also found Inge awesome pink and purple sneakers! We had a ball!! EXTREMELY FUN! <div> Inge is back in Antwerp, and thankfully feels like she has a new lease on life. I'm resting up this weekend so that I'm full throttle for my clients next week. Pic #45 is Vietnamese lunch in my neighbourhood before taking Inge to the airport.  The last two weeks have been an absolutely perfect way to celebrate 20 years of YLF in Seattle. I had high expectations of how fab things would be, and they were exceeded!  THANK YOU EVERYONE!!! MAJOR THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO TRAVELLED FROM AFAR!!! You made it EXTRA SPECIAL. xo P.S. Haven't forgotten about the NEW YORK gathering! I need to figure out timing. Stay tuned.  </div><div><div> <ul></ul> </div> </div> Angie on "WEEK #2 of Fabiversary!!! (Pics Galore)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-2-of-fabiversary-pics-galore#post-2411060 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 03:06:36 +0000 Angie 2411060@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Anna, Inge and I went out for brekkie earlier last week in awesomely edgy, grungy, and gritty Capitol Hill - my old stomping ground before moving to our loft - and had a wonderful time! Laugher, and sharing like old friends was very welcome. Anna was wearing cats! I was wearing Yorkies - the Yorkie Levi's jacket Anna found for me!!!  :)  Fabulous Queen Sassy Kyle flew in from Arizona to be with us, and the fun and shopping continued in full force!!! We had incredibly supportive  conversations like besties, and braved the crazy wet and windy Winter weather on foot in style! Our raincoats are KILLER awesome! We stayed dry! We shopped up a storm, and put together a brilliant smart casual capsule for Inge in blues and whites. ESSENTIALS!! I'm sure Inge will share that with you when she's back in Belgium. Apart from shopping and yakking till the cows come home, we ate at our favourite restaurants in my neighbourhood in Belltown, and walked in the arboretum. Kyle's wisdom, warmth, and fabness is always a treat We had to eat at her favourite Malaysian restaurant! Oh! And Inge looked soooooo good in a pair of Aritzia navy pinstriped trousers that I had to get them too. Kyle and Suz have them on order! Influenced quadruplets!  Kyle and Suz met! Although we forgot to take a pic :(  Suz came in from Victoria, Canada - (2.5 hr Clipper boat ride that docks right outside our loft!) - a couple of days before the BIG gathering on Saturday to get extra FABBING and shopping in with us! We shopped all day at the big mall - which meant I DROVE - and Suz hit the jackpot. Suz will share her treasures with you herself ;)  We got together again with Anna for the best Hong Kong food in Seattle and had a very animated evening! We laughed and engaged with enormous familiarity.  Suz stayed another two days - and more about that later.  KILLER FABULOUS ALL ROUND!!! Thank you sooo much Kyle and Suz for traveling to see us!!! TOUCHED. Thank you Anna! We loved seeing so much of you! You all made YLF's 20 years extra special and I'm in awe. Love your GOOD energy. xo Angie on "FABIVERSARY SEATTLE GATHERING #1" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/fabiversary-seattle-gathering-1#post-2410338 Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:13:01 +0000 Angie 2410338@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ KILLER to the Power of KILLER Day! The fab pics are just the very tip of the iceberg.  WE HAD SOOO MUCH FUN!!! The day began at 9.15am and ended at 10pm. Tooo short!! We needed another day.  Lana, Natalie and Vicki came from California! Margaret, Aida, Anna and Sarah (and me) are local Seattleites. And Inge came from Antwerp. Absolutely AWESOME mix of people!!! Everyone was instantly comfortable, very warm, energetic, and supportive of one another. Brought tears to my eyes.  We met at Starbucks, which was buzzing so we had to stand! And when Natalie asked which stores we were going to - I replied - all of them ;) That's what we did.  Busloads of laughing, hugging, trying on of clothes and excellent shopping! We filled University Village - and each other - with the best positive energy. OVERFLOWING with it! The day was a much needed therapeutic distraction, and I think I speak for all - our hearts were full. Everyone shopped and bought treasures! I'll leave that to the individual Fabbers to share and discuss in separate threads so they get due attention.  I'll share my treasures though: 1. PEARL JEANS!!! The pearls are riveted studs and excellent quality. (#39 and #40) 2. ONE OF A KIND BESPOKE OVERSIZED LEVI'S YORKIE DENIM JACKET!!! (#28 to #30). Aida found the wash, and Anna found the Yorkies!!! Natalie and Aida twinned with me and bought plain versions of the same Levi's jacket! It was meant to be.  I can't think of a more incredible and perfect way to celebrate 20 years of YLF.  THANK YOU EVERYONE!!! xo Carla on "As an antidote to shopping disappointments, do we have some successes to share?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/as-an-antidote-to-shopping-disappointments-do-we-have-some-successes-to-share#post-2411072 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 03:51:01 +0000 Carla 2411072@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I totally agree with LJP the challenge of sourcing really good fashion finds is getting harder and harder.  As we all husband our fashion dollars more closely, are there any successes stories to share?  Favourite brands, and winning items? Uniqlo is fast becoming my first stop when I cruise the mall.  Every other year I add one of their merino wool crew neck sweaters to my collection.  The 6 yo red one has 65 wears, and looks as good as my newest brown one - with 18 wears.  Half-moon bags, joggers, thermal wear, puffers - all get top marks from me.  Recommend, recommend! Levis - their denim never lets me down, and they have some other interesting garments - usually natural fibres.  Though I had to reattach a button on my new cropped trench, I’m quite pleased with the style and comfort of the piece - with an excellent price point. Naturalizer footwear.  Leather!  Low heels.  Interesting styles.  The perfect last for my foot.  <div> </div><div>I only have two items from Anain - a Canadian brand.  Their Cashmino knitwear are the warmest items in my closet.  Not particularly fashionable, but I love my older tuque, and my newer ‘boyfriend’ sweater.  Worn 27 times and washed once (cold water, delicate cycle, laid flat to dry).  No shrinkage, and no pilling yet.) </div><div>Over to you…</div> Angie on "Seattle Gatherings: IMPORTANT Details" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/seattle-gatherings-important-details#post-2408451 Tue, 17 Mar 2026 21:33:41 +0000 Angie 2408451@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ There will be two Seattle gatherings to celebrate 20 years of YLF: <div>Dates: Saturday 11 April, Saturday 18 April </div><div> </div><div>Times: 10am, till we drop :) </div><div> </div><div>Locations: University Village, Seattle (It’s not the big extravagant mall, but my favourite shopping area in Seattle. It's pretty, and outside. Lots of fun curated shopping).</div><div> </div><div><a rel="nofollow" href="https://uvillage.com/">https://uvillage.com/</a></div><div> </div><div>There is a quintessential Starbucks at University Village, where we’ll meet at 10am so that everyone can unite, and RE-unite, and have a drink! Don't be late! It's hard to park, especially over the weekend. And Seattle traffic is terrible. </div><div> </div><div>I’ll make reservations at 1.30pm for lunch at PIATTI. It’s a good place for larger groups and all dietary requirements. </div><div> </div><div><a rel="nofollow" href="https://seattle.piatti.com/">https://seattle.piatti.com/</a></div><div> </div><div>This is the list of definite attendees I have so far:</div><div> </div><div>Saturday 11 April: Angie, Inge, Vicki, Anna, Slim Cat, SarahD8, Marmee, Goldenpig (Natalie), Aida</div><div> </div><div>Saturday 18 April:  Angie, Inge, Suz, Sharan, Anna, K.Period, Nicole, Nuancedream (Andrea), </div><div> </div><div>These people were MAYBES. Please let me know in this thread if you’ll be attending one of the gathering events by MARCH 30. I need to finalize reservations. Feel free to DM too! All Fabbers welcome! </div><div> </div><div>JP, Ket, Dana, </div><div> </div><div>*The date for the NYC gathering has not been set yet. Stay tuned for that! VERY EXCITED TO SEE YOU!!! xo </div> elpgal on "Everyday Carry (EDC) bag" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/everyday-carry-edc-bag#post-2410550 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 03:28:57 +0000 elpgal 2410550@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ What is your everyday carry? I am considering a Clare V Petit Moyen but wonder if it is too delicate for daily wear. <a href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/clare-v-petit-moyen-woven-messenger-bag/7539226" rel="nofollow">https://www.nordstrom.com/s/cl.....ag/7539226</a> Angie on "PRE- Seattle Gathering Festivities! (Pics)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/pre--seattle-gathering-festivities-pics#post-2410241 Sat, 11 Apr 2026 14:22:37 +0000 Angie 2410241@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Vicki came up from California! We shopped sneakers for Vicki and Inge at the Nordies Flagship. Success! They wore them the next day for 19,000 steps. HAPPY FEET!!!  Sharan joined Inge, Vicki and I at the BIG  Mall where we were VERY productive. Inge and Vicki wanted a jeans, pants and topper refresh. DONE!! We got everything on their shopping list.  Inge - 3 jeans, a pair of navy pants, a raincoat and cropped trench. Vicki - 2 jeans, white pants, white denim jacket, pink shirt, pink jacket.  Lots of food and drink in-between :)  Slim Cat joined us from California later! Awesome dinner and walk around Seattle at night. BUZZING thrift store at 9pm!  BRILLIANT festivities all round. Everyone in good spirits and excited. xo Angie on "Reunited!" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reunited#post-2410064 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 22:09:12 +0000 Angie 2410064@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Fetched Inge from the airport late yesterday afternoon! HAPPY!!! Home cooked meal at the Cox Castle. Caught up this morning.  Gorgeous walk and pastries this afternoon. Sam and Jo with us - of course! :)  Hosting dear friends tonight. xo  Carol on "Skirt chuckle" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/skirt-chuckle#post-2410099 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:10:17 +0000 Carol 2410099@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I might be getting a skater skirt soon--the high-waisted, short length, circle skirt that is quite youthful. With my casual life, it will work in a lot of environments, and be especially good for the heat.  I had always thought "skater skirt" referred to skateboarding, and I was puzzled, because it seems like a difficult thing to wear while skateboarding. Nevertheless, I thought it was an "alternative" item you might style with Vans sneakers or pink hair. Finally tonight, looking at scads of them online, I realize it more closely resembles an ice skater's skirt. Which is a totally different vibe--graceful, dancing, spinning. This is what "skater skirt" MUST be referring to. Brooklyn on "Some recent DIY projects (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/some-recent-diy-projects-long#post-2409732 Sun, 05 Apr 2026 11:40:58 +0000 Brooklyn 2409732@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I wear a long skirt virtually everyday during summer and frequently in spring and autumn. I know maxi skirts have few friends here but I think they are casually elegant for summer. And I like the sun coverage. I hate having to slather my legs with sunblock. I prefer a full or a-line skirt for summer. For 3 or 4 years now, my go to everyday skirt has been a basque waist (or drop waist) skirt in linen from Australian retailer Seed. This style of skirt works for me because it is fitted at the hips. The fullness or flare of the skirt doesn’t start until the lower hip. I find it much more flattering than the style of skirt where the fullness starts at the natural waist. Anyhow, I have a few. They are starting to look a little tired (even with re-dyeing) and a bit worn, especially around the seams. I’ve been looking for replacements. I found what I needed at budget retailer Target. They had some smocked bodice dresses on clearance for $30-$40 (about 20-25 USD). 100% linen. I much prefer linen to any other fabric on my bottom half in our hot and humid summer. I love the way it softens with wear. I am at peace with the creasing. I saw the potential for the dresses to be turned into skirts. The smocking can be pushed down onto the hips to create the drop waist. I sized up a couple of sizes so that the smocking could slide easily over my hips. (It’s important with this style that it doesn’t cut into the hips.) I cut off the shoulder straps and inserted an elastic waist at the top of the smocked bodice. Some I also dyed. They came out really well! The smocking gives a nice texture and is a variation from the Seed skirts. The heathered effect of the dyed versions (see below) is pleasing. Easy to wear because of the stretchy, pull on style. They are also longer, which is my current preference, and they have pockets! For me, this has been much easier (and cheaper) than making the skirts from scratch. Pic 1: This is the Seed skirt I’m replacing. I wear mine lower on the hips than the model. Project #1 (pics 2-4). New batik print skirt. This was my first attempt at the new version. Worn in pic 4 with Frankie4 sandals (thanks for the recommendation Angie). Project #2-4 (pics 5-10). Dyed versions. I started with a wine coloured dress. The dress has a wine coloured thread interwoven with a white thread. When dyed, the 2 threads take up the colour differently. That leads to a lovely 2 tone, heathered effect. I made 3 different versions: dusty wine, deep aubergine (not shown) and dusty purple. The dusty purple version is my favourite. I’m thinking of making another one in copper brown. Project #5 (pics 11-16). Blue version. I hadn’t planned on adding a blue skirt to my wardrobe but the others worked out so well I decided to give it a try. It’s a change for me. Worn in pic 14 with a silk shibori scarf from the V&A Museum in London. Project #6 (pics 17-21). Teal skirt. I wanted a new teal skirt but couldn’t find one in a suitable style. I was so pleased with the other skirts I tried another approach. This time I converted a linen sack dress (again, on clearance) into a skirt. I dyed it teal. It’s a different style from the others. Not a drop waist, not as full. I am pleased with how it turned out, even though the style is not as versatile for me. It is light and breezy. It has side slits which, on the original dress, were from the knee to mid calf. Because I turned it into a skirt, they now go from the mid calf to ankle. Good for walking. Pics 22-25: Some of the new skirts getting the Siena treatment. She is hard on my clothes but I wouldn’t have it any other way. She is having her second TPLO surgery next week. Wish us luck