YouLookFab Forum » Forum: Shopping

YouLookFab Forum » Forum: Shopping - Recent Topics https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/forum/where-to-shop Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:07:36 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Firecracker (Sharan) on "Trunk show shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/trunk-show-shopping#post-2411310 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 23:05:35 +0000 Firecracker (Sharan) 2411310@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <div>I went to a trunk show today hosted by a retired boutique owner. She said she plans to have trunk shows every spring and fall. This is the first I've been to outside her store. They are fun! The featured designer was NY77, which I had seen and bought before from her. </div><div> </div><div>I came home with this outfit, pictured below, a matching distressed denim jacket and pants. It's gray denim with a slightly pink-taupe wash , the pants made from one side of the fabric and the jacket from the other. The jacket has zippers up both sides, front and back, to remove the sleeves and create a vest. </div><div> </div><div>The trunk show was held in an optical shop downtown Seattle, and I tried on a few pairs of eyeglasses, also shown below. One pair was picked out for me by one of the clothing designers. I didn't buy any glasses. Not today, anyway--haha!</div><div> </div><div>Last pic is what I wore shopping (photo taken in Nordstrom on my way to light rail back home).</div><div> </div><div>Just wanted to share some of the fun with you all, my style tribe!</div> Janet on "Oops, I did it again" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/oops-i-did-it-again#post-2411380 Sat, 25 Apr 2026 12:44:24 +0000 Janet 2411380@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I bought another pair of pants. Funny that for so many years I found pants so difficult for me, but since the ascent of wider-legged silhouettes and full lengths, I’ve been finding it much easier to get excited about newer styles. I love a tuxedo or side stripe, but I thought for years that it just didn’t work for me. Well, it wasn’t great when on a skinny or slim pant, but in a fuller leg, it’s a big yay for me! Last year I added a couple of pants with this feature to my wardrobe, but they are more fall-winter weights. I was in the neighborhood of one of the remaining Nordstrom stores in my area last week and cruised through, on the lookout for white sandals (zero luck there). I spotted these pants from Avec Lee Filles and was intrigued even though they are not a color I typically wear. There was just one pair, so I tried them on and just had to take them home to try! They’re a bit roomy, but I like that kind of loose fit in summer. The ties at the sides are a very trendy touch but one that appeals to me. Team Wear reporting — I wore them yesterday to work for a while at the library (needed a quiet space and home was not it that day!), run some errands, and then host some friends of ours for drinks and dinner at our house. I paired them simply, with a plain white cropped tee from Athleta, and white Adidas sneakers. No pics, sorry! But I’ll try to take pics next time I wear them. I got three separate people complimenting me on these pants while out yesterday, too! I also brought home the side stripe Rag & Bone Miramar pants that I have been eyeing for a year. Do I need them? No, but I really like them and I believe they’ll get lots of use! Suz on "In which I break my vow" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/in-which-i-break-my-vow#post-2411014 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:00:02 +0000 Suz 2411014@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ When I read this blog post, on Friday, apart from a pair of pajamas, I did not own a single item in soft pink. Or any kind of pink. Why? Not because I dislike pink. Cool and even neutral pinks flatter my skin tone, and over the years, I've bought pink top after pink top after pink top. Only to avoid wearing them! Somehow, pink items always end up feeling too sweet for my taste. I put them on, and then take them off in favour of something else. Tired of wasting money, three years ago I absolutely swore off all pink except for PJs, undies, and loungewear. Until Saturday's shopathon, that is.  More on the amazing Seattle gathering later, but for context, I was absolutely in the market for a cropped and fairly fitted denim jacket to replace one of my earliest YLF purchases that had finally given up the ghost after 14 years.  We'd tried a number of options in the adult sections of different stores without success. Then I reminded Angie that I'd got a previous white denim jacket in the kids' section of Old Navy. (A detail she remembered, by the way. She has a memory for people's wardrobes like you would not believe.) Anyway, while at the Gap, we headed to the kids' section. There, I found my blue denim jacket! Better yet, it cost less than a third of the price of the cheapest adult option we had seen. I also wanted a white version, which they did not have. But -- you guessed it -- they did have a soft pink number. If I'd been shopping on my own, I'd have walked right past it. In fact, I did walk right past it without even seeing it! But when the lovely Nuancedream pointed it out and encouraged me to give it a try, I couldn't say no. Meanwhile, the patient Firecracker and Angie held my stuff and offered opinions. What can I say? Gap had a Buy one, get one half price deal going on. that day. It seemed like a sign.  I have owned this jacket now for four days and have already worn it three times. So much for not wearing pink! What makes it work for me? Angie's trick of pairing it with something high contrast, for starters. Also, this jacket is a slightly "dirty" colour -- a greyed out pastel, rather than one mixed with a lot of white. Normally, I prefer clearer, less muted colours, but here, the grey takes some of the sweetness away from the pastel and makes it feel easier (to me!) to wear. More on the other items and our amazing fun get together  in a later post! Kyle on "Travel bag recommendations" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/travel-bag-recommendations-1#post-2410977 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:06:17 +0000 Kyle 2410977@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ What kind of a backpack or tote (and what color?) do you travel with? I’m talking about a nice looking piece you would carry on to an airplane but that also works for a day of walking around or touring. I’m partial to a soft backpack — it’s what I’ve used for eons — but I’m open to hearing about other options and how they work for you — because this old thing isn’t cutting it style wise and it’s way past time for an upgrade. LJP on "What are we doing about.....poor quality clothing ?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-are-we-doing-aboutpoor-quality-clothing#post-2410783 Sat, 18 Apr 2026 20:35:52 +0000 LJP 2410783@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ We've discussed the general downward trend in clothing quality here on the forum - and I'm curious what we/are doing about it. I consider myself pretty well informed about garment construction and fabric quality, but I've been let down by 4 pieces in the last week - which are at different stages of life in my wardrobe but still relatively new. 1. I wore my Spanx AirEssentials track pants to work the other day, and while sitting outside in bright daylight, notice tiny pills forming all over the pants (Angie wrote about this) . Barely discernible but I see them. I bought these late last summer and maybe wore them 2x before putting them aside for winter. They have not been through a full wash cycle (only a steam refresh) . They were $130 Cdn, and have rave reviews on the website. I wrote a review on the site , and sent an additional email. No reply. The fabric content is a mix and does include polyester (a common offender). 2. A sweatshirt from Splendid (a US casual wear company - sold here by an indie boutique/spa/salon - pilled SO badly after it's first wash last week ( which was way after any return period offered by the boutique ) it's no longer wearable. Oh and surprise, surprise, it has some polyester in it. UGH. It's a beautiful cafe coloured French Terry top and Splendid pieces usually do well for me. Purchased late last summer and worn a couple of times before the season ended. Paid about $125 for it. Wrote the company and got a "sorry we can't help you with pieces sold wholesale to another store" reply. 3. A Yaya Woman (which always shows up as some massmarket US company when one googles it but it's a Dutch company sold in one indie boutique here ) fine gauge sweatshirt style sweater I bought 2 years ago has been washed once, worn maybe 5-6 times and is pilled and worn looking. Can't really be shaved as it's quite a fine gauge knit. I think I paid about $160-170 for it. I've bought a fair number of pieces from the brand BECAUSE of the quality and design. Wearing it today around the house but am ready to chuck it. Won't go back to the boutique to complain because I'm a regular there and also get a sales rep discount now. No action to take . And guess what - more polyester in with the cotton. 4. A 100% cotton heavy cotton jersey top from Aritizia - purchased a couple of weeks ago at $65.00. Washed it last weekend and now it's stretched out at the hem, cuffs and neck and looks worn and cheap. Left a review on their website and apparently I'm not the only one with this issue. Too late to return, and Aritizia tends not to care if you live or die unless you are a 30 year old . Can't wear this one outside of the house now. Polyester is/was added to knits and wovens to help with fabric stability and strength , and longevity! It also helps fabric hold dye. I admit that I didn't realize that the two tops mentioned above had poly in the blends - of course the Spanx pants contain polyester and that was expected. But it polyester so bad now that it's going to pill? I have 2cheap sweatsuits from GAP/Costco that are full of poly and have washed and worn like iron this past winter. This goes against my natural/small maker ethos I know but.....for at home wear I need inexpensive and hardwearing stuff . I don't want to spend my time and energy writing reviews and complaining to companies about their poor-quality clothing, but what the heck can we do about issues like this that don't appear right away? I clearly need to be better at examining labels when shopping and stop assuming I know what's in a fabric just by looking at it. At least $500 Cdn worth of clothes that didn't perform, and 2 of which are going into the garbage, unfortunately . The Spanx pants are still ok for now...... Chris987 on "[UPDATE DOWNTHREAD] What would you wear in place of modern classic loafers?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-would-you-wear-in-place-of-modern-classic-loafers#post-2409928 Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:51:13 +0000 Chris987 2409928@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I've been striking out badly trying to find some fairly classic but modern loafers in black and/ or brown. (would love to find BOTH colors) They must have very thick sole cushioning esp under the ball of the foot, good arch support , and a low heel. A lug sole that's not too thick is fine. I was hoping for a modern classic  or slightly trendy look. The usual issue is  that when the heel area fits well the shoe is too short and my big toe hits the front; or the big toe works and the heel slips. Insoles/inserts do not usually resolve the problem.  I've tried heel inserts but either the heel still slips, or the heel does not slip butt the fit is thrown off somewhere else.  I would wear these  in spring/fall with straight leg or flare/bootcut jeans/pants which are all I wear for bottoms these days.  I wear sneakers a lot, mostly "fashion sneakers" but occasionally want the more polished look of a loafer.  Sandals are also good, once we get to true summer.  What other shoe styles would you consider to fill a similar role in your own wardrobe? I'm not a fan of oxfords or Maryjane's, and ballet flats usually have the same fit issue as loafers.  Backless shoes like mules don't  stay on my feet. Sneakers are good.  Boots are good too but I don't want to wear them in warmer months, although maybe I should consider some perforated/openweave styles.  The finds are most of the ones I've tried and rejected. Even Vionic and Clarks which are go-tos for me in general are not working.  The last find is the Sam Edelman Lorraine which I've had for a few years but even with an added superfeet insole the soles feel too thin now, and I'm tired of the style.  Thanks in advance for any ideas!  p.s. these are mostly low or modestly priced brands, but I'm willing to try higher priced ones.  Sal on "Jac Cadeaux- does anyone have any experience with this brand?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/jac-cadeaux--does-anyone-have-any-experience-with-this-brand#post-2410467 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:48:15 +0000 Sal 2410467@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ This brand came across my radar and I do like their sweaters - and some of the striped tops. They look to be Australian but I had not heard of them. <a href="https://jaccadeaux.com/" rel="nofollow">https://jaccadeaux.com/</a> The prices are not cheap so I wondered if any one had experience or comments? The look is very French and it could be too much so. But it is appealing to me. I like the sweaters the most- they seem to be sporty unfussy elegant and bold ish. Thanks! unfrumped on "Confused about some Nordie Returns" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/confused-about-some-nordie-returns#post-2410039 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:09:01 +0000 unfrumped 2410039@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Specifically, to outside party vendors, in this case Lilysilk. Background also, I recently was doing online return of a dress that came up as from another vendor Nordstrom had partnered with. The return process seemed to go through the usual steps ( aiming for QR code ) but had a notation re: this other vendor. So I got nervous about how to proceed & started a Chat, which went to AI, which sent me a QR code but no actual answer to my original question as to whether I could have proceeded by myself as usual ( I didn’t pester the Chatbot further). I’ve mailed it off hoping that it had the proper label. Now I am doing a return of a Lilysilk item, which is shipped by Lilysilk. I started the usual way and it goes through the process but then does not show up as Return in progress, and also in my return steps it doesn’t say anything like, please contact Customer Svc. This to me has also seemed more complicated now that Nordstrom does not email the QR code to me anymore, but I have to go to my Purchases & click there. So, I plan to try to contact a “ real” person in Customer Svc( if that is even possible) so that maybe I could learn how best to do this in future. But, any Nordstrom Fabber advice ? ( I recall Angie is on break.) ladypainter on "Desigual: Sizing Q’s" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/desigual-sizing-q%e2%80%99s#post-2409833 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:27:09 +0000 ladypainter 2409833@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Currently infatuated w/Desigual’s upside-down jeans (see below. Sorry, could not get Finds bookmarklet to work correctly. Feel free to correct/delete as needed!). Realize that Spanish & brand sizing is smaller/narrower than US vanity sizing. The size chart on the Desigual US-facing site (link small & hard to find on site footer) indicates a size 40 for my W/H measure. Nordstrom’s size chart recommends a size 44 for the same W/H numbers. Nordstrom’s remote phone bank said to use the brand site numbers over the Nordstrom reccies. If you’re familiar with this brand, what do you suggest, please? Will check back this evening. Thanks in advance, xo! Lisa on "I'm Matching My Area Rug" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/im-matching-my-area-rug#post-2409242 Mon, 30 Mar 2026 01:29:52 +0000 Lisa 2409242@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hello. I'm always amused when I serendipitously end up matching furniture or accessories in my home. This time, my new additions match...my area rug. The rust pocket joggers by Bella Dahl were picked up for a steal at my local consignment shop, which was running a flash 80% off special, while I was dropping off some items. The Ariat women's traveler half zip pullover was another discounted item, this time from a local western clothing store DH wanted to visit to search for cowboy boots. I was placing the items on the floor to take photos for finds when I realized, not only do these two pieces pair well together, but they also match the area rug! I added some Ecco sneakers to round out the look. Thanks for looking! Suz on "Short trench try-on!" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/short-trench-try-on#post-2409133 Sun, 29 Mar 2026 01:39:41 +0000 Suz 2409133@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I made a very quick day trip to Vancouver today for a haircut and on the ferry came across this <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_ca/w-avenue-short-trench-54555?color=602338">Helly Hansen version of the short trench </a>in cream and navy. Thought it was worth a try -on.  It is waterproof, has a zip off hood, no epaullettes or belt, self-colour snaps instead of tortoise buttons, as well as a zipper. So it's not a  completely classic trench,  but it is double breasted in style andvery much in the vein of the fits we are seeing-- slightly oversized, with a swingy back (and a back vent).  I tried it first in the S in cream (photos 1, 2, 3, 4, 5). Don't you think the expression on the woman's face in #3 is hilarious? I don't think she is a fan! :)  Then I tried it in the xs, which also fits. (6, 7,8). I don't know which I like better. I think the S.  Then in the navy in small. (9) I didn't like the navy as much. I have a lot of navy coats. Enough already.  Then the outfit I wore all day and the new hair. (10-11).  I liked this coat more than I thought I would but did not buy it yet. Would love your thoughts!  I think this definitely demonstrates that it works a charm with wide leg jeans/ trousers. Proportions are fun.  Chris987 on "PSA: small plaid trench in two lengths" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/psa-small-plaid-trench-in-two-lengths#post-2409082 Sat, 28 Mar 2026 15:09:31 +0000 Chris987 2409082@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I just ordered/received this full length trenchcoat, and although the fit is not right for me, it's a REALLY nice coat, so maybe someone else might like to try it. I love the plaid pattern and the fact that it's single breasted. I got it in a medium regular. The hem and sleeves are too long, which is alterable, but the cut is overall a bit too slim for me. I need to be able to close coats and drive in them and this one is too snug for that. Sizing up would make the shoulders too big etc. The coat does not seem to be available in a petite size - I checked a number of places including a google search. So, sadly, it’s going back, The same print comes in a cropped version, double breasted, that does come in petite sizes, but i just bought a cropped trench in a solid darkish brown and this would be too similar (I think - still mulling it). The plaid is a medium brown, soft black, and cream/beige. Really nice buckles on all the belts, etc. The hood ion the full length coat is enormous but easily removable (zipper). It's not water resistant. All the variations are on sale at Macys right now. A warmish neutral small pattern plaid coat in a petite size seems a real unicorn! FInds: <ul> <li>the long coat</li> <li>the short one - two separate finds for the regular size and petite size</li> <li>the solid brown one I found ago at TJmaxx in mid-Feb; brand is house of harlow; not a petite size but works surprisingly</li> </ul> Carla on "Fab Finds (other brands)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/fab-finds-other-brands#post-2408887 Wed, 25 Mar 2026 22:13:54 +0000 Carla 2408887@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ As Angie noted in the blog post highlighting the brand Mango, prices for garments (and footwear, and bags) has really gone up in the past year +/-.  Like her I’ve been throwing my net a little wider, and visited some retailers I’ve not previously shopped.  <div> </div><div>I’d like to give a shout out to H&M.  I’m really happy with the denim I bought there.  100% cotton (including some recycled).  A nice weight, no dye transfer and minimal shrinkage (washed twice).  An almost unbelievable price point.  There seems to be a good through line with their winter-to-spring slightly Scandi fashion story,  and good merchandising in the store I visited.  I liked it much better than the Gap or Old Navy. Uniqlo is not new, but they are getting a portion of my clothing budget every year, and are usually the place I go to first when visiting a mall.  </div><div> </div><div>La Vie en Rose is a Canadian lingerie store that carries bathing suits.  The are the talk of the locker room amongst the more casual exercisers and therapy pool users ‘of a certain age’.  When I struck out at Bikini Village  I checked out La Vie, and scored a great vacation bikini at a reasonable price.  I will keep them on my radar when next I need a lingerie refresh. </div><div> </div><div>A Canadian grocery store chain called Joe Fresh has been a surprising source for decent quality at very reasonable prices.  I’m a fan of their cash-cotton sweaters.  At 3% cashmere, that’s stretching credibility, however the crew neck neck (and turtleneck) sweaters are great classic style transitional season tops that wear well (around 60 wears)  come in a variety of colours, and are under $30 CAD. Though I still check out Winners, their fashion items have been a real disappointment lately.  You used to find good leather footwear, but now everything seems to be made of plastic.  The store I have access to seems to have less hidden treasures, and more cheaply made synthetic  stuff.  Housewares (Homesense) is still good, but women’s fashion - not so much. How are you feeling about the ‘mall brands’ or other clothing retailers?  Do you have any ‘ride or die’ brands?  Are you checking out different shops or discovering new designers?  Who looks interesting to you going into the next season?  Where are you spending your fashion $$’s?</div><div> </div> Vicki on "Any love for or experience with Honeylove bras?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/any-love-for-or-experience-with-honeylove-bras#post-2408832 Tue, 24 Mar 2026 21:56:23 +0000 Vicki 2408832@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I must’ve watched one too many YouTube video commercials on Honeylove bras because they keep popping up now. But I am curious about the wire-free crossover that seems to be a favorite of many, although with my size, the basic colors I wear, nude and black, are not available. So to try one I would have to get a different style or a color I don’t prefer. I thought I would start here to get some feedback from my YLF friends. The older I get, the more comfortable I want my bra to be (even with the fabric used), but I do need support because I have saline implants from breast cancer surgery many years ago, and due to gravity support is needed. Sorry for the ridiculous screen grabs, but it’s the best I could do. Sal on "March has been a shopping month" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/march-has-been-a-shopping-month#post-2408780 Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:27:15 +0000 Sal 2408780@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have been on a shopping spree in March. After two months without shopping (and very little from September to December) I have bought quite a few things - and have some more in mind. - two pairs of denim, one wide leg and one slim straights. - a pair of cream ankle boots - black satin top - black pants - barrel leg? - satin slip skirt I have also had fun making up some capsules in finds based around autumn and winter toppers. I don't need much more this season - keen for a shirt and have found this one (see photo) that I am considering. I think it would be great with navy, red and black work pants and blue and cream denim. I also would like a new knit, not sure what colour - or style - or price range. I would also like something bright and cheerful as I seem to be adding more subdued colours. Maybe a red sweatshirt for weekend wear would be just the ticket? Then I think/hope I will be set up for winter.... Carla on "Will this date?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/will-this-date#post-2408311 Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:41:10 +0000 Carla 2408311@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I’ve been loading this cropped trench in and out of my cart since last fall, and I’ve finally pulled the trigger!  My concern was that the cropped style would scream ‘I’m from ‘25-‘26’ and then look severely dated in a year or two.  <div> </div><div>But…it’s just so d@#% cute!  When I was at the mall, I saw a version of the cropped trench in every store!  </div><div> </div><div>What convinced me was #1 a great price on the Mark’s Work Warehouse site, and #2 the fact that I managed to snag two great pair of medium/wide full-length-for-me jeans that I think will create a really cool silouhette. My fingers are crossed that it will be a fun addition to my S/S style!</div> Angie on "Two Pairs of Dainty Shoes" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/two-new-pairs-of-shoes#post-2408396 Mon, 16 Mar 2026 23:04:40 +0000 Angie 2408396@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I prefer dainty footwear to chunky styles, so the trends are in my favour. I'm milking it :)  I was in Europe last week - The Netherlands - for an aunt's funeral - one of my late Dad's sisters. It was a good trip, all things considered. Spring collections were in full swing there, and I brought back a pair of pretty pearlized metallic flats. Via Vai is a Dutch brand, and made in Europe. I'm wearing them with and without knee-highs here. I HOPE they will be as comfy once I road test them properly! Weather has to warm up first. I also nabbed a pair of dressy gold Linea Paulo T-strap kitten heel pumps at The Rack. Cheap as chips for $67. It's very hard to find comfy dressy shoes! Been a HEWI for years. These will replace a very old pair that are falling apart.  Thanks for looking. xo Star (Lise) on "Spring Shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/spring-shopping-4#post-2408161 Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:22:26 +0000 Star (Lise) 2408161@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hello All Just sharing that I caved and bought three new pieces for Spring. New from retail which is sort of unusual for me. No pics but quite simple items that I am happy with for a small refresh. I was thinking about blues and greens predominantly for Spring/ Summer but have had a mind change to black/white/red. These are what I bought: A white eyelet button down. I tried my size and one larger and decided to go with my size. I feel it is a classic piece and I want a classic fit. I have a number of oversized button downs already. It is long sleeved with roll up tabs. A black tee with small red hearts embroidered on the front side at random intervals. Short sleeved. Both are cotton and made in India and were discounted. I like cotton clothing made in India. Also a long sleeved heathered gray cotton ribbed turtle neck made in Turkey but that is to be worn as underwear on colder days. I refreshed my mascara too which I do every Spring. I don't wear any during winter. Now all I need is for the weather to co-operate. Janet on "Low profile sneakers and new denim" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/low-profile-sneakers-and-new-denim#post-2408076 Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:52:03 +0000 Janet 2408076@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I had a little shopping recently, after ignoring the stores for the first two months of the year. I guess the approaching change of seasons has me in refresh mode! I've been eyeing some updated sneakers for my collection this spring. I have a number of chunkier-soled and platform sneakers, and I will continue to wear and enjoy them, but I like the idea of a bit more on-trend addition, and I always liked lower profile sneakers anyway. Fortunately, there are lots of budget-friendly options out there now, and Adidas makes a lot of them. Adidas also seems to fit my foot well, albeit in a size smaller than I normally take.  I found theses two pairs at Nordstrom Rack and they came home with me. The champagne color of the Adidas is a little warmer than my usual silver, but it's cool enough to work for me -- it blends with my preferred silver hardware but seems a little more unexpected than straightforward silver. I wore them around the house yesterday and forgot I was wearing them, they're so comfortable!  I also decided to try the blue Vince pair, and they are keepers too. I love the color, which is a prominent one in my wardrobe, especially for spring and summer. They provide a nice spark in a neutral outfit too.  I also purchased two new pairs of jeans recently. I was open to a pair of not-so-dramatic barrel shaped denim, and these COH Miro are good -- interesting but not too extreme, so they have a boyfriend-ish appeal that I like. I've already worn them a few times in two weeks.  I also tried the AG Saige jeans in a quest to duplicate the fit and style of my Nili Lotan Celia jeans, but in a more dark undistressed wash. Luckily, the AG's are a much lower price point too! They are a good length to wear with those low-profile sneakers or other flat shoes, while my Celias look better with a small heel, so that works out as well.  I also brought home from the Rack two cropped shirts from Rag & Bone -- this length and style work well for me, and I like the contrasting stripe treatment. I was not sure about the taupe stripe on me, but I was surprised to see it seemed to work, and is a nice change of pace -- I think the white breaking up the taupe makes it work for my coloring, and the taupe is cool enough that it kind of complements my hair color now. I'm unsure whether I'll keep both of those shirts -- the other one is a dark blue on white stripe, which seems more of a slam dunk for me, but the stripe is subtler. I can see how both of these shirts could serve me well.  I also picked up the Eileen Fisher sweatshirt. It's boxy and oversized, but I adore the color. It would probably be mostly a loungewear item, but nice enough to run out to the store, which I can't say of all my loungewear. Perhaps it's time for an edit of that capsule! A nice little haul from my local Rack, which has been less than stellar lately, so it was nice to see some items that actually interested me.  Ket on "Shopping at Dillard's: I went!" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shopping-at-dillards-i-went#post-2407839 Sun, 08 Mar 2026 17:46:23 +0000 Ket 2407839@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <a rel="nofollow" href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-lots-of-mall-shopping">As our fearless, fabulous leader Angie shared about Dillards</a>, I have to share my recent experience.  <div> Last weekend, my husband surprised our son and I with a trip to Texas! It was his birthday and he wanted to go somewhere new but still within a realistic commute. I had never visited Texas so was curious and interested.  The city we stayed in had a Dillard's department store. Because Angie had shared about it, I felt compelled to visit. For YLF research, of course. And because I grew up with Dillard's. I mean, what is a vacation without shopping? My admiration and respect for Dillard's runs deep. I once purchased a silk chiffon leopard scarf there and wore it to near shreds for years. It was such high quality and such a gorgeous color palette. (Not your usual leopard; it was the most gorgeous midtone peach, camel, and milk and dark chocolate colors--all in real silk. Le sigh...) The mall had two Dillard's, one at each end of the mall. One end was luggage, children's, home goods and menswear. The other end was women's wear, perfume, shoes, and juniors.  We visited on a Friday evening and entered on the menswear end. A sales associate actually came out to open the door for us to enter. :O  So refreshing! All of the sales associates were lovely. I almost was mobbed in the perfume department. Five associates asked me if I needed any help. It didn't annoy me at all. It was done so politely and sincerely, and at just the right intervals. All SAs were on their toes, very polite and kind, but not pushy. I loved it. One employee actually complimented me when I walked in. She said she had never seen a woman with two such handsome bodyguards accompanying her in their store. It was cheeky and lovely. Made my day really and I still smile remembering our interaction. Another associate took my candle from me and put it on hold, so I could shop hands free. I'm sure other stores have great customer service, but it has been some time since I experienced CS like this. Women's clothing was lovely. I saw so many pretty and interesting items. They were having a huge clearance sale to make way for new spring times. There was a glorious red tartan skirt-- maxi length with some kind of ruffle details--that still lives in my mind, on clearance to boot. I'm not quite yet fit into regular sizing, and none of the labels they carried catered to my current size, so I didn't buy it or any other clothes. It was hard to walk away from that tartan skirt though! In the end, I purchased a large Voluspa candle in their blood orange scent and two flavors of Compartes chocolate bars. My favorite of the two is Cowboy Crunch, a 48% milk chocolate bar with caramel, Cap'n Crunch cereal, and salted peanuts.  I agree with Angie: Dillards is the most underrated department store in the country! They have excellent buyers. Lots of lovely brands and beautiful displays. Great prices and sales. If I had one nearby, I would probably shop there often. I actually order shoes from Dillard's website occasionally. They stock a lot of great brands and often run sales. </div> Roberta on "The mall, and white t-shirts" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-mall-and-white-t-shirts#post-2407746 Fri, 06 Mar 2026 18:13:31 +0000 Roberta 2407746@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I went to the mall (Old Orchard in Skokie this time) on a sunny day, making an effort to visit stores I haven't been to, and thorough rounds of Nordstrom and Macy's. I conclude that online shopping is The Way for me. There is so much out there that doesn't apply to my life now - office wear, heels, dressy/formal wear, shapewear, jewelry, etc. I still enjoy visiting specific sections of department stores, but I'm usually there to return something I bought online. :-) On the other hand, I found really good white t-shirts at Banana Republic, in the men's section. 100% Supima, narrow cut, wide-ish collar - <a rel="nofollow" href="https://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=811425022&vid=1&pcid=80117&cid=80117&nav=meganav%3AMEN%3AMEN%27S+CLOTHING%3AT-Shirts#pdp-page-content">https://bananarepublic.gap.com.....8;cid=8011</a>. Also available for a lower cost but still fine quality at <a rel="nofollow" href="https://bananarepublicfactory.gapfactory.com/browse/product.do?pid=532967111&vid=1&pcid=1045328&cid=1045328&nav=meganav%3AMEN%3AMEN%27S+CLOTHING%3AT-Shirts#pdp-page-content">BR Factory</a>. Comparable to COS, but not boxy in shape. As to sizes, I am reliably an XL in women's tops, and a Large in men's tops. I only wear white t-shirts under sweaters, so I like them to fit fairly close. I have broad shoulders and am not petite, so a men's cut fits me well. And the quality is SO MUCH BETTER.  Here's what I wore - emphasis on comfort head to toe. Ket on "Worth buying multiple sizes?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/worth-buying-multiple-sizes#post-2407675 Thu, 05 Mar 2026 22:36:40 +0000 Ket 2407675@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am looking to buy some knit tees I absolutely love the fit and color of from Torrid. And... they're all on clearance to boot. As my weight continues to shift, I am wondering if it's worth purchasing more than my current size. I mean, I really love the fit of these tees more than anything else I've tried-on in some time. Sadly, these tees aren't worth thrifting off Poshmark, etc. due to the mark-up most sellers do. <div><div>I'm purchasing the Girlfriend Tee, photo 1. And also their elbow sleeve tee (photo 2) -- in a luscious drapey rayon blend that is surprisingly not clingy. <div> </div><div>I'm making a style shift and that has surprisingly made me lean toward wearing tees for the first time in maybe 20 years?? FWIW, I do think the elbow version is more "me" but I like the Girlfriend Tee too. I am planning to layer them with a belted cardigans, biker jacket, blazer, etc.   <div> </div><div>How do you all shop with weight shifts and buying (or not) multiple sizes?</div></div></div></div> Sal on "Trends that have not cycled back..." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/trends-that-have-not-cycled-back#post-2407184 Wed, 25 Feb 2026 20:50:55 +0000 Sal 2407184@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I was recently thinking about moleskin pants. I wore these a lot in the 1990s and they were really popular (at the time with boat shoes and a sweater - Aran or Fair Isle). They still are available here for men, but have not really cycled back into the main stream. I don't know why not - they were warm, comfortable and pretty easy to wear.... I then thought about other trends that have been popular but really not cycled back: - legwarmers - I wore these not only for dancing but also with leggings and jeans in the 1980s - double belts - I don't think these were a micro trend - I think I was inspired by Madonna (mid 80s) - knickerbockers - inspired by Lady Diana in the early 1980s (at the time). Since then I have worn capri pants and pedal pushers but not a true knickerbocker style - nor have I seen them come back. I honestly can't think why moleskins and knickerbockers haven't cycled back in given that bubble skirts, stirrup leggings etc all have made reappearances. Up for debate - have you seen these trends back again - am I living under a rock here in NZ? Debbie on "Where do you buy white t-shirt" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/where-do-you-buy-white-t-shirt#post-2407415 Sun, 01 Mar 2026 03:06:22 +0000 Debbie 2407415@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am looking for a good white or cream t-shirt for the summer. It need not to be see through. It needs to be reasonably priced. Anyone have any ideas. Irina on "Mall shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/mall-shopping#post-2407249 Thu, 26 Feb 2026 22:15:36 +0000 Irina 2407249@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I almost did it - no shopping February ended today for me, 2 days before the calendar :) I went shopping to our big mall - Yorkdale. I spent there about an hour and went to 4 stores. <div>Massimo Dutti - moved to a new location within the mall after renovation. Looks very nice, the same vibe as MD’s stores in Europe. I’m interested in spring/summer shoes but they are not there yet. </div><div>Club Monaco - sad looking place with limited inventory. Looks like they are done  Very unfortunate. </div><div>Banana Republic - nice, big store. I was trying to identify what the inventory reminds me and then I thought - JCrew! Somehow this is what I felt browsing the items. Not my thing but I scored a cashmere sweater at a really good sale price - paid $80 plus tax!</div><div>Aritzia - looked like heaven for young women, very busy and normally, I would turn around and leave but I was determined In November I tried a pair of jeans whole buying a coat and wanted to revisit it. I’m obsessed with these jeans, at least for now. Looks longer on me and more relaxed as I sized up. I kind of missed the more classic cut with longer inseam. But I will sit on it and try again in a few days. Style - Denim Forum Farrah, Hi-Rise Wide. Price is acceptable, too. </div><div>Many are taking a break in January-February. Are you planning to shop in stores and what is on your wish list?</div> Dee on "Shopping Intimidation" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shopping-intimidation#post-2407294 Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:35:34 +0000 Dee 2407294@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I recently went to Montreal's newest shopping mall called ROYALMOUNT. The place wasn't all that busy that day but then again, it was a Monday. There had been a lot of hype when this mall first opened over a year and a half ago, so I was quite curious to see it. However, in the end, I actually found the atmosphere there oddly a bit bland and rather sterile for my taste. The first floor had all the expensive designers like, Tiffany, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, St Laurent, Jimmy Choo etc... , the second floor had the more affordable retailers like Uniqlo, H&M, Levis etc... I didn't buy anything there beyond lunch. We did go into Canada Goose to check out their inventory (Yikes! Merino beanie hats going for $250) but in general, it just felt too intimidating to go into some of the other designer stores. The staff often looked bored and were mostly on their phones, and at other shops, the sales staff looked ready to pounce the second you walked in the door. I felt the most comfortable browsing in the Uniqlo, although all the staff there kept greeting me with "bonjour" even when they had just greeted me a few minutes earlier in another aisle. All and all, I guess this isn't the shopping mall for me. I prefer my local suburban mall, its much livelier even on a Monday, still has a great selection of stores, although maybe not the exceptionally high end ones. Anyone else ever feel awkward or intimidated when shopping in certain places? JAileen on "I went to the mall" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/i-went-to-the-mall#post-2407317 Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:57:09 +0000 JAileen 2407317@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I was just at the mall that is closer to us (3 miles versus 8), to return some things to Macy’s.  Afterwards, I walked around Macy’s looking for a couple things I’m thinking about.  I could not find them. <div> </div><div>Then I walked over to Eddie Bauer.  The store is definitely closing.  I didn’t even bother going in.  </div> Carol on "When to be boring" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-to-be-boring#post-2406958 Mon, 23 Feb 2026 01:46:32 +0000 Carol 2406958@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I talked about before, although I like to try a lot of different clothes, sometimes I get a "tug" when looking at an item, that I should get it, even if I am not that excited about it. Sometimes these are wardrobe staples, but sometimes they are also very specific. I saw this linen shirt dress on Land's End, and boy, did it "tug" me. It looked very boring on the site. Having never owned a shirt dress, I really wanted a striped one, more lightweight. They had that, but it didn't feel quite right. Sleeves were off, or something. I think the reviews were also much better for this one. I so did not want this boring black dress, but I had a strong feeling it would work. I think it does! What do you think? 1 and 2 are with brown flats--somehow I didn't capture the shoes. 3 and 4 are with Naturalizer block heels. 5, 6, and 7 are with leggings and new leopard print booties (and hat).  Chris987 on "J. McLaughlin - how is the quality/longevity?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/j-mclaughlin---how-is-the-qualitylongevity#post-2407154 Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:18:53 +0000 Chris987 2407154@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ In Angie's recent post on lots of mall shopping, she mentioned J McLaughlin - " ...great looking items for a very niche market. Works well on petites. Fab quality, and not overly pricey.' I was in the store in Boston last week shopping with a friend, and we were loving a lot of what we saw. I would describe the vibe as modern preppy although a bit more conservative than JCrew. In particular we looked at two lightweight sweaters that come in a LOT of colors and both have buttons along the lower arms.  Jamey  crewnwck for $158    55% Cotton, 45% Modal Arlette turtleneck for $178   54% Cotton, 44% Modal, 2% Spandex. It looks like some of the colors are on sale now.  I'm a bit reluctant to spend this much on sweaters, given how unpredictable quality can be (regardless of price), but I do agree with Angie that these are not overly high prices for good quality sweaters Do any of you have any experience with this brand, in particular how is the quality and longevity? TIA p.s. I do know someone who has worn this brand for many years and says they last a long time, although she didn't like it when they were bought (around 2015) and the prices went way up and they got less conservative. She hasn't bought anything recently and can't comment on how the quality is how.  Angie on "Thoughts on LOTS of Mall Shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-lots-of-mall-shopping#post-2406885 Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:26:19 +0000 Angie 2406885@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I've done a LOT of mall shopping the last two weeks, here in the US.  2 weeks ago, a FAB and very stylish friend and I went to a huge mall in Seattle where we shopped from 10am to 5pm! We had an awesome day!!! We looked at EVERY store that tickled our fancy, talked up a storm about the offerings, and saw many trends unfold. We did a lot of dressing and trying on in the fitting rooms too. Spring and Summer collections are in full swing. It's an EXCELLENT mall in the burbs, which meant I had to drive my car across the bridge. That's a big thing for non-driving me The mall was buzzing and FAR from dead and lifeless.  Stores that were standouts in Seattle, WA: <ul> <li>COS - EVERY item is absolutely stunning. </li> <li>Banana Republic  - SO MUCH awesome newness! WOW! BRILLIANT. Best "comeback" store in the US. </li> <li>Mango - very affordable on trend fabness! And outstanding service.</li> <li>Zara - affordable spunky fashion forward fabness! Terrible service. </li> <li>Uniqlo - lots of fab essentials and some fashion forward bottoms.</li> <li>Nordstrom - very good jeans, petites, shoes, and Ralph Lauren items. Lots of way, way too expensive items - which was off putting. </li> <li>Anthropologie - great petites, and all sorts of pretty flouncy looks. More affordable. </li> <li>Levi's - truly, an incredible denim store. A gender-neutral and size diversity leader, AND affordable. Old school denim with no stretch. YES!! Great Japanese denim too. The SA's know their stuff :) </li> </ul> <div>Last week I was in Arizona for 5 days with more FAB and very stylish friends. I had a ball, and lots of fun!!! It was AMAZING!!!  We went to three EXCELLENT malls and they were buzzing too. We did LOTS of trying on of clothes and shoes together. Stores that were standouts in Scottsdale and Phoenix, AZ: <ul> <li>Ralph Lauren - THE MOST BEAUTIFUL STORE I've ever visited in the US. My heart was pounding. It took my breath away. Utterly gorgeous!!! Launched into orbit. </li> <li>Dillards - MOST UNDERRATED DEPARTMENT STORE IN THE US. It was my first time in Dillards, and what a treat! I was blown away by the incredible variety of the assortments, and their affordability. It blew Nordstrom and Bloomies out the water as far as value, variation and affordability goes.</li> <li>J. McLaughlin - great looking items for a very niche market. Works well on petites. Fab quality, and not overly pricey. </li> <li>Banana Republic - AGAIN! Outstanding!! And a very different feel to the BR in Seattle. We learned that every new BR is custom built to suit the mood and environment of the city. In Seattle - urban and more minimal. In Scottsdale -  more southwestern and maximal. Both beautiful stores! Albeit very different. </li> <li>Vineyard Vines - my first time in the store, and it's "a look". Very niche, and one for the family (lots of matching across departments). Fun to see. </li> </ul> When I was in Los Angeles in December with yet another  FAB and very stylish friend!! - (I'm lucky to have lots of those) - Bloomingdales and Nordstrom were the standouts too. We also had an awesome shopping day!! I did a lot of shopping in BRICK 'n MORTAR stores for a change. Spring shopping is my favourite! I enjoyed every moment. I got essentials and statement pieces. Fashion forward items, and of course - classics (my sugar eye). Neutrals and non-neutrals.  Some pics just for fun. All in Arizona: Ralph Lauren Store, Musical Instrument Museum, Arabian Horse Show, and me in the dressing room trying on a PINK rugby shirt at Vineyard Vines, which I loved and followed me home. I'll reveal what else I bought in the next few weeks! xo ETA: The friends that I shopped with ALL got KILLER items too!  </div>