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YouLookFab Forum » Forum: Shopping - Recent Topics https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/forum/where-to-shop Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 16 May 2026 16:55:38 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Ket on "WIB: A Kaftan, and musings on my style journey" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wib-a-kaftan-and-musings-on-my-style-journey#post-2412762 Tue, 12 May 2026 20:38:07 +0000 Ket 2412762@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Last week<a rel="nofollow" href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-with-skirt-and-baby-shower-outfit"> I asked for help</a> with baby shower outfits.  Thank you again for helping me!<div> </div><div>And... I ended up buying something new to try. :S</div><div> </div><div>Kapow! It's a kaftan! Ran across it on sale for $16. It's a rayon challis, so drapey and COOL. Perfect for humid, hot weather in June. It is not high end, let's be clear. The edges are all serged instead of being hemmed. But I love it. It's breezy, comfortable, sensual, and easy to wear. I want to buy 2-3 more.  The colors are almond milk and burnt sienna, all swirled together. Not sure yet which shoe I'll pair it with. I tried it with pair of cage wedges for photos. Worried the cage wedges will look a little too ultra for a baby shower?? Might scale down to my pair of flat, strappy sandals.  </div><div> </div><div>Still trying to decide if I like it best with or without belt. If I wear it belted, it needs a gold or brown belt. So... Maybe a gold chain belt or an obi style leather belt. </div><div> Wearing new earrings purchased a month or two ago (photos 3-4), I think they will pair nicely with the kaftan. Rich, elegant, yet subdued. Normally, I would style the kaftan in head-to-toe boho: huge gold bib necklace, stacks of bangles, and flashy boho earrings. But that just feels too over-the-top for a baby shower.  I ordered a dress to try too: a floral surplice neck dress, maxi length (photo 5). I love both dresses. Might wear the kaftan just to travel in and wear the floral to the baby shower.  This brings me to why I am choosing to buy new.  The navy dress was purchased a summer or two ago. I loved it, don't get me wrong. It's a wonderful dress! Excellent quality fabric and great cut.  And... trying it on this week, the dress instantly reminded me of how I felt last summer, when I was  still healing from mold exposure.  The dress belongs to a version of me I no longer want to visually reinforce or emotionally remember. In fact, I went through all of my summer clothing a couple days ago. All but one pair of pants makes me feel and remember the tail-end of my health journey last summer. Just... how lost I still felt at the time. It's almost like my body was physically, viscerally responding to wearing the dress.  I've put said clothes in a holding zone for now. But thinking I will likely donate or resell them. </div><div> </div><div>This experience has also helped me learn the differences between love vs like. The navy dress wasn't a LOVE. It was a like. It fit me. It was boho. It was very nice quality. I felt pretty in it while allowing also hiding in it. (Does that makes sense?) I feel I settled even though I never admitted I was settling. The kaftan thrills me in a way the navy dress doesn't -- even though they're both in the boho zone. </div><div> </div><div>Interesting to learn some more on the style journey! Thank you for listening to me process.  xo</div> Ket on "WIB: Brooches" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wib-brooches#post-2412760 Tue, 12 May 2026 19:54:48 +0000 Ket 2412760@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ This year brooches are a big trend. It shocked me because I haven't seen anyone really wear brooches since maybe the 80s or early 90s. I love brooches, though I've always felt scared to wear them lest they fall off and be lost.  <div> </div><div>This year I am hopping on the trend! Because, as you know, I love anything that's feminine, vintage, glamorous, artsy. And I really enjoy thrifting vintage jewelry. <div> </div><div>Most of these are vintage Avon. I grabbed screenshots versus trying to photograph my collection. It's difficult to photograph brooches so their size and detail are captured. </div><div> </div><div>Photos 1-2: a collie and cocker spaniel.  Photos 3-4: I'm especially in love with the jabot pins! I'm hoping to knit or purchase a pussy bow blouse and wear the jabot pins on the pussy bow portion. Photos 5-8: I also purchased a poinsettia brooch and earring set. Hoping to wear these with the Christmas tree and ice skate this winter and holiday season. </div><div>Photos 9-10: this one is a genuine Weiss costume piece from the 1940s/50s. I probably purchased it for pennies 25+ years ago at my hometown's thrift store.</div><div> </div><div>Photos 11-12: My most unusual is a fully articulated tiger meant to be worn over the shoulder. It's quite heavy but really beautiful. I haven't yet worn it because it requires a hefty shirt/sweater/coat, otherwise it risks skewing the fabric (or ruining it) due to its weight. Note: I found it on Temu for $10-15. I'm seeing these resold on eBay as "vintage" for $50-100+--don't buy it for that! </div><div> </div><div>Inspiration! I grabbed a bunch of Pinterest inspiration shots because well, I think the art of wearing a brooch has been a bit lost. Loving the use of it on the collar of a turtleneck, the shoulder, and cuff. Also really enjoying the use on hats and to close a cardigan. Of course, nothing like the traditional label or scarf!</div><div> Anyone else hopping on the brooch trend? I'm envisioning wearing my brooches on my cocoon cardigans, and even a handknit poncho (if I can get my knitting in gear). </div></div> Gretchen on "ISO Formal Flats" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/iso-formal-flats#post-2412470 Thu, 07 May 2026 02:23:36 +0000 Gretchen 2412470@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have a formal outdoor wedding at the end of the month. It's taking me longer than expected to recover from ankle surgery, so I don't think my tried and true gold heels will work.  My dress is this style, but in Navy: <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.ralphlauren.com/women-clothing-dresses-jumpsuits/belted-georgette-flutter-sleeve-gown/654439.html?cgid=women-clothing-dresses-jumpsuits#start=1&cgid=women-clothing-dresses-jumpsuits">https://www.ralphlauren.com/wo.....ve-gown/65</a> I was thinking of staying on the metallic side, and found a couple options: <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/jack-rogers-lennox-slingback-pointed-toe-flat-women/8357570"></a><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/jack-rogers-lennox-slingback-pointed-toe-flat-women/8357570">https://www.nordstrom.com/s/ja.....en/8357570</a> <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/bow-slip-ons/8930798">https://www.nordstrom.com/s/bow-slip-ons/8930798</a> <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/slater-ankle-strap-sandal-women/8825863">https://www.nordstrom.com/s/sl.....en/8825863</a> Any thoughts? Other suggestions? Ket on "Shoes for a Dress" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoes-for-a-dress#post-2412220 Mon, 04 May 2026 22:14:51 +0000 Ket 2412220@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Okay... I realized the reason I am not feeling my summer navy dress for an upcoming baby shower is... the shoes. Or lack of shoes. I think it needs a really great shoe to make it feel more festive. Meaning, not brown.  <div> </div><div>I'm leaning toward multi-color... or floral?</div><div> </div><div><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.dsw.com/product/jessica-simpson-mauvien-wedge-sandal/611704?activeColor=110">https://www.dsw.com/product/je.....eColor=110</a> <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.dsw.com/product/kelly-and-katie-goldie-wedge-sandal/593899?activeColor=690">https://www.dsw.com/product/ke.....eColor=690</a> </div><div> </div><div><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.dillards.com/p/gianni-bini-haiku-multi-corded-tassel-sardine-detail-ankle-wrap-dress-sandals/521456385">https://www.dillards.com/p/gia.....-dress-san</a> </div><div>(so fab I am squealing)</div><div> </div><div><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.dillards.com/p/gianni-bini-dante-ankle-wrap-mismatch-ornament-dress-sandals/521365768">https://www.dillards.com/p/gia...../521365768</a> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>What do you think?? </div> Sal on "Musings on my winter wardrobe" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-my-winter-wardrobe#post-2412113 Mon, 04 May 2026 00:18:53 +0000 Sal 2412113@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi All,  I had a shopping free month in April after a splurge of seven pieces in March.  Coming up I have the following occasions to dress for: - 50th Sunday lunch at a lovely venue (women only) - day in the city followed by a concert  - long weekend in Melbourne - several meals in and out with friends I went to a conference last week, it was mostly a tech gathering.  I felt good in my new shirt and wide leg pants with Mary Janes (shown in finds). The most common outfit for men was a blazer, tee, jeans and cool sneakers.  For women there was a fair bit of that look too, but lots of interesting wide leg trousers on display.  There were less dresses and skirts, and it was a hip rather than dressy crowd.  In saying that two of the men I went with (clients and partnering organisations) wore navy suits and collared shirts, so it was not all casual.  I loved the people and outfit watching - most of the work events I go to involve people in navy suits or uniforms or chinos and polos..... I realised I want a sharper handbag - that's the major item on my list.  Most of the time I won't take my laptop in it but I want it to be possible to do so.  My current handbags are not sharp, but slouchy.   I am also looking for a white tee which is hard to find, and a new knit/sweater.  I don't know what colour to go for, I want it to be a versatile option? I found this bag available in Perfect Condition from an online site that I have shopped at before.(photo 1) and have now purchased it!  I have added one new thing in May, some wide leg "dance pants" for weekend walks and lounging and travel (photo 2) Questions. 1) What colour sweater would work for me? 2) What to wear to a ladies lunch - in winter?  A dress, long satin skirt with new sweater?  My green cord jacket and cream jeans that I showed a couple of posts ago?   <a rel="nofollow" href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-1970s-wide-legs-go-to-work">WIW 1970s wide legs go to work - YouLookFab Forum</a> Thanks for your help! Janet on "Ruti finally got to me" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ruti-finally-got-to-me#post-2411831 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 23:46:23 +0000 Janet 2411831@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ok, I lied. One more summer purchase. And pants, no less, even though I have already had a recent run of good fortune finding excellent pants for the warmer half of the year. It makes up for the years when I felt I had no options besides shorts or skirts for hot weather. I had been eyeing these “On the Loose Work Pants” from Ruti for easily a year. I tried their barrel jeans some months back and was oddly between sizes in them, so my expectations for these pants were not high. But a sale convinced me to try out these pants. They arrived today, I tried them on, and I didn’t even bother putting my jeans back on — I wore these pants around the house for the rest of the afternoon. That’s how good they are. They’re very lightweight — probably too light for some people — but for our summer, I think they’ll be brilliant. I think they’re pretty flattering on me too, for a barrel style. The fabric has a very nice drape and doesn’t wrinkle at all. They are the grey color, which is dark enough to be hard to see in my photo, and I took the smaller of my usual sizes (8) since the reviews said they were roomy. I could have gone up to a 10 and still been comfortable and had extra slouch, but 1) I like the fit like this, including the length, and 2) I want to keep myself honest since my weight has crept back up a bit in the last six months. Time to keep a better eye on my eating habits. :-) Now, it’s time to do a little editing of my pants collection. I think there are some old joggers and cargoes that won’t be worn now that I have some good updates! Chris987 on "In the mood for a new perfume; how to go about it?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/in-the-mood-for-a-new-perfume-how-to-go-about-it#post-2411954 Fri, 01 May 2026 13:25:47 +0000 Chris987 2411954@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I"m in the mood to find a new  perfume. I don't wear perfume every day but do like to occasionally.  For many years the only one I've worn is Hanae Mori Butterfly, which I still love. I first found it at Holt Renfrew in Montreal 15 years ago.  While DH was speaking at conference,  I was strolling around  HR looking at the gorgeous and pricey clothes, including a stunning Armani leather blazer that thank goodness would not have fit me so I wasn't tempted to spend $7k. I think an SA was offering a free spray of the perfume and I just loved it. It was a couple of years before I found it anywhere in the US.  I once did some research into brands I had liked in the past (Burberry Brit was one example) and they mostly had strong vanilla notes. I don't want to relive the Avon Pretty Peach I liked as a kid :-)  I have a  visceral "yuk"  reaction to perfumes that smell overtly like sweet flowers, much as I do love flowers and their scent in a bouquet or garden.  Hanae Mori Butterfly is described as  "Floral, fruity, and gourmand, the fragrance opens with luminous notes of red berries. The heart reveals a delicate bouquet of plum blossom, jasmine, and rose. In the base, precious woods and vanilla bring warmth, softness, and depth" Vanilla, fruit, woody, seems to be my thing at least for base notes.  How do I go about finding something new? I suppose doing a google search on perfume with woody vanilla base notes would be a place to start, to come up with al list of ones to try IRL.  I don't think standing in the Sephora perfume dept randomly spraying brands onto that little paper strip would be very effective -)  Any and all recommendation welcome!  Debbie on "My Loft Haul" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/my-loft-haul#post-2411747 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 02:22:24 +0000 Debbie 2411747@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I went to the Loft yesterday and redeemed my prize. I got 3 pieces. A dress, jacket and bag. The dress can be worn with or without a jacket. The jacket doesn’t work with dress but I am going to have it shorten. The bag is cute for the summer. The sales staff treated me like a queen and I walked away feeling energized. I have pictures with two different shoes and several different jackets. I think I like the black sandals the best. All comments suggestions are welcomed. Suz on "Flirting with linen, plus two FABiversary Finds" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/flirting-with-linen-plus-two-fabiversary-finds#post-2411619 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:40:42 +0000 Suz 2411619@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Linen and I have not broken up. I do keep a certain amount of distance from linen, but I'm open to flirtation.  Also, I'm a sucker for names. For one of my creative and academic projects, I'm hard at work in the archives. So when was online at Aritzia in search of something else and saw the Archive shirt in SUSAN-stripe....let's just say it mysteriously wound up in my bag. :)  This is an oversized linen shirt. Very oversized -- as you can see. So it stands away from the body. It has tabs to rein in the sleeves. Being linen, it is light, so it can be fully tucked, despite its bigness, and it can also be tied in front for a sort of blouson. This colourway (they have tons) is a bright navy with a very thin ivory stripe.  I haven't cut the tags but I think I'm keeping it. I like some sun coverage in summer and this shirt feels breezy and cool in both senses of the word. I really like the cut. And the slight pattern (and dark colour) help to disguise wrinkles.  I am wearing it with my new white crops. These replace my Zara ones from last year, which I loved so much in theory, but which mysteriously always wrinkled worse than linen, despite being 100% cotton and so crisp on first acquaintance. They drove me up the wall -- even with ironing the wrinkles did not seem to come out or stay out for more than 5 minutes!  The jeans are Ralph Laurens from the petites section, which Angie found for me. Angie and Inge were so patient. We tried on a lot of frogs to find this prince. Well, to be fair, some of them were not exactly frogs, but maybe minor dukes? Anyway, these felt perfect from the second I zipped them up. Sizing up in petites can work for me so that is what we did. I've been wearing them on repeat already.  The shoes are the loafers I ended up keeping! In a frenzy of delight that a loafer, ANY loafer would stay on my feet, I bought the pretty blue perforated ones at full price at Nordstrom (and they were pricey in CAD$ -- about $200.) But they were size 7 (my typical US size) and required an insole on one side to stay on. Then, when I saw the silver in size 6.5 for a mere $44 US at the Rack, and tried it on, and it fit much better, I returned the blue ones in favour of these.  These are the Vionic Uptown loafer and they are a miracle shoe for me! I've been wearing them nonstop and am considering a second pair. Ideally, I'd love a loafer with a less sporty/ sneakerish sole, but this fit my purposes completely for this summer and they are workhorses already.  Thanks for looking!  kkards on "? for my Canadian friends ~ Naked & Famous Denim" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/for-my-canadian-friends-naked-famous-denim#post-2411789 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:34:37 +0000 kkards 2411789@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ so I've had linen jeans on my brain and yesterday as i was googling, this brand came up Naked & Famous Denim <a rel="nofollow" href="https://nakedandfamousdenim.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorJQzqTJwUvAR5Co5oHyNYsNzXHq24rY9BKaA517CUrKhS50j8z">https://nakedandfamousdenim.co.....UrKhS50j8z</a> i went back to this old tread and did not see them mentioned. but they are a Canadian brand, the website says they are actually making the jeans in Canada, not just designing them there. the prices look inline for premium denim and the styles look interesting anyone know anything about them? <a rel="nofollow" href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/some-canadian-brands-to-know-about/page/3">https://youlookfab.com/welookf.....out/page/3</a> delurked on "Slip shorts and half slip recos" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/slip-shorts-and-half-slip-recos#post-2411720 Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:23:13 +0000 delurked 2411720@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I live in a dry climate and wear a lot of dresses and skirts. There have been years where I was not wearing slips, but I have come back around to them for comfort, modesty, and improvement in the way the clothing hangs. I had slips I wore since high school for decades, but eventually I needed some new items. A lot of what I saw in stores was too staticky and cheap feeling, plus this isn't a category very stocked at retail anymore. I found the brand Mancyfit on Amazon, and I've become a fan. I wear their pettipant/bloomers shorts and have recently purchased a half slip that is working well. I've also had good success with the cooling slip shorts from Jockey that I've gotten from Target. I did find the slip shorts in stores. They don't squeeze uncomfortably at the waist and the slip shorts are not compressing in any way. They just provide a nice layer for smoothing and anti chafing if needed. They are also not hot, which is important to me.  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.