YouLookFab Forum » Topic: 7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: 7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long) https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sun, 03 May 2026 23:32:39 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Staysfit on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359919 Sun, 21 Sep 2014 13:53:30 +0000 Staysfit 1359919@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks Karie! I agree that we have a lot in common. It has been so helpful to learn that I am a rectangle and not a pear. It has helped me figure out so many things and I finally understand what silhouettes to try so I can expand the variety in my wardrobe. When I tried things for a pear shape they didn't work well :-) I'm most certain about the plaid shirt. I really like that and think it will work well for me if it fits. I love the idea of plaid pants! What fun! I saw so many great pics of people wearing plaid shorts in August and thought that would be something for next summer. I could also consider some for fall/winter if I find them in the right color mix. I am planning a visit to the mall to check some of these things out. I will probably hold off on buying the Vince sweater, the Equipment turtleneck and maybe the dress. Of the three I like the dress the best, but it is on the short side for me. I like dresses to be around 38 inches, and this one is 36. It may stretch because it is a sweater, so it could work. Thanks for the web that helps with color analysis! It makes me wonder if I am a spring also. So confusing! I will wait for a response from the person who did the original color analysis for me to see her opinion. Karie on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359894 Sun, 21 Sep 2014 13:01:38 +0000 Karie 1359894@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ WOW! You have learned a lot in one month. It's taken me two years to learn even half that! But I'm very glad you're learning it because we are very similar in many areas (except I'm shorter waisted with long legs) so I can learn from what you're learning :) Even our style words are about the same. Wasn't it a revelation to learn you were a rectangle and not a pear? It sure was for me. As for the color palette, that is so hard for me, but I believe I'm a spring. Here's a good website for that: <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.newstartat40.com/categories-2/4-season-color-analysis/">http://www.newstartat40.com/ca.....-analysis/</a> As for your shopping list:  Flares and BFs look great on us. Trouser jeans and track pants do too, but I like to add structure on top, even if it's just by scrunching the sleeves or showing some arm skin in a loose fitting top. My favorite blazers are from BCBG, Banana Republic, and Target. Yes yes to a plaid shirt! That is more of a style preference, though. How about a fun pair of plaid pants? I like the colors of the sweater dress, the turtleneck, and the cardigan (I love that whole outfit). I think the t-neck and long cardi will be tricky and you'll have to get the shade just right. Gap has some nice blouses with prints on them, I think Equipment does too. Yay for chambray - I have a 'faded-look' one from Nordies that I love (and even duplicated). TraceyLiz65 on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359885 Sun, 21 Sep 2014 12:18:30 +0000 TraceyLiz65 1359885@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Wow, such an impressive read.  You are making such wonderful progress!  Staysfit on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359882 Sun, 21 Sep 2014 12:00:29 +0000 Staysfit 1359882@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks Deborah!  I hope your No Spend September is going well!  I am hoping that I don't go on a spending spree in October!  Talk and action are different beasts, and I have to be sure I can put my new found wisdom to action!   I am already working on my next step, sort of.  I have been knitting my new sweater, which was how I discovered my body shape.  I have been bad at picking sweater patterns in the past, so before I started this one, I posted it and asked Angie if it was appropriate.  That's how I learned I am a Rectangle, not a pear!  Fortunately, the pattern was still good, and I have been knitting away.   I also emailed the person who did my virtual colors, and sent her some of the photo's of me draped in scarves from my contrast post to see whether she thinks I am a soft autumn still, or if she thinks my coloring has changed since she did my swatches.  You can read about this concern in my contrast post.  <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/contrast-high-med-low-per-marleys-suggestion">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....suggestion</a> I am hoping she can shed some light on the matter.  If not, that is ok.  I know I can continue to work this out on my own.   Deborah on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359880 Sun, 21 Sep 2014 11:35:09 +0000 Deborah 1359880@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Such a good read!! Thank you for sharing;). I am also coming to the end of a September of no shopping and I am super impressed with your process and how far you have come on such a short time. Looking forward to the next step/) smiles33 on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359861 Sun, 21 Sep 2014 06:12:19 +0000 smiles33 1359861@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thank you for sharing this. I learned so much just reading your post--it makes me want to start a similar journey and figure out some of these things myself.  It's quite overwhelming to be at the very beginning of this endeavor, but reading your post is inspiring. Jaime on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359785 Sun, 21 Sep 2014 03:01:14 +0000 Jaime 1359785@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Well DD clearly got her smarts and insight from you. This is so well thought out and organized that I want to go purge my closet this second. Too bad you and your DD can't be here to help! Staysfit on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359709 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 22:18:46 +0000 Staysfit 1359709@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks Alasse and Elizabeth P.  Taking the time to do this became necessary because there was no more room in my closet!  I needed to make a change, and I wasn't about to build a bigger closet so I had the motivation to do something.  It has been fun but it is time consuming.  I will not continue to be this intense about my style and closet for that much longer because I have too many other things going on in my life! Thanks Laurinda, I have a few cashmere sweaters that my DD didn't want.  I think they are still current and someone could use them.  I also have some tops and dresses that were in the wrong colors but are still quite nice. Then there were a few multiples of items that I am culling and some even still have tags!  I think those items can go to consignment.  The rest can go to a charity of some sort. I don't want to spend a lot of time though. I want to do whatever is easiest and fastest.  I dread driving all over town with my stuff to see if the consignment shops will take it. Laurinda on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359702 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 22:10:44 +0000 Laurinda 1359702@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thank you for sharing your notes, this is a huge amount of progress in a short amount of time. Deciding what to do with the overage depends on the style, whether pieces are current, what is in your neighborhood, and your personal ratio of money to time (and patience). It's great if you have friends or family that can use things and there is the Style Exchange here on YLF. Most of what I cull that is current goes to a local consignment store, where I am lucky to get 10-20% of what I paid. Older but still wearable goes to a local charity - they are even interested in cotton for rags, and I get a tax deduction. I don't have any designer items, but people here have had luck with Ebay, Etsy, Tradesy, Twice, etc. Alassë on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359634 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 20:34:52 +0000 Alassë 1359634@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Congratulations on paring down by half; that's a huge accomplishment! Very extensive, helpful analysis for your self & your style, too. If you're a Soft Autumn, I think that plaid shirt will be great for you - I'm a Warm Autumn, so I want the shades to be deeper and richer, but it's almost there (a lot warmer than most plaids). Elizabeth P on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359532 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 17:30:09 +0000 Elizabeth P 1359532@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Wow, this is one of the most impressive wardrobe reviews/analysis that I have seen!  Good for you.  I think articulating all your thougths in one place like this is such a good thing - I can't seem to get my act together to figure out all the little lightbulbs I've had.  Staysfit on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359512 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 17:03:05 +0000 Staysfit 1359512@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks Elly, I think I have enough to get by for several weeks and would be able to eliminate some pieces, etc.  I also think there is now room to add some things as well.  It seems I am in a good place! I still have some things to sort through, and suspect that more will be eliminated, but that's ok.  This has been a step-wise process, with a major elimination at the start, and then refinement over time.   What do people do with their purged clothes?  Do you sell them somehow?  Local consignment stores?  E-Bay?  Twice?  Do you give them away?  Here on the forum?   I have a very large pile of items that I need to get rid of now, and am trying to figure out what to do with it all! Elly on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359447 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 14:55:15 +0000 Elly 1359447@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think the one in, one out rule is most successful with closets that have some room in them . . . i.e. closets where you could eliminate a few pieces and still have 2 weeks or more worth of regular clothing. When you have a closet like this, there is always something you aren't wearing or wearing less, which gives you an opportunity to eliminate something. Sometimes ladies tire of a silhouette and keep only their favorite or most used pieces from that subcapsule, or put the staples in storage or a holding zone if they are high quality. Of course, that doesn't mean that sometimes there are favorites that don't get worn for a season. Still, this frees up room for new silhouettes or pieces that work better for your life. Of course, other ladies use the space created from getting rid worn items or things that we purchase and get sick of (because they are trendy or we wore them a TON one season) or just didn't work as well as we thought. The more you wear the same clothes, the higher the turnover rate. For some, when their favorite black sweater wears out, it is an opportunity to try a new color or silhouette or something with an interesting detail that they love.  frannieb on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359423 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 13:50:36 +0000 frannieb 1359423@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Wow, thank you so much for sharing your process and what you have learned in 1 month. I am following the links and continuing on my own style journey. You have given some great recommendations.  You have created a wonderful roadmap to follow. Looking at your shopping list it is quite lovely - the colors you picked are beautiful. Staysfit on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359376 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 11:44:10 +0000 Staysfit 1359376@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Is it hard to figure out what to eliminate with the one in one out rule? Right now I'm replacing and updating some obvious items. For example I have too many Ivory tops and not enough print. My current plaid shirt is not in a flattering color for my skin tone so I have been hunting for something better. I mostly have all straight leg jeans so some variety would improve things. My turtle neck sweaters need to be updated. Eventually, that will end. Then what? Is there always something to change and update? Maybe I just won't shop unless there is! Suja on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359288 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 03:56:50 +0000 Suja 1359288@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great post. I went through a similar process this year. I would consider one in, one out to keep things in check going forward. That rule really helped me. Alana in Canada on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359271 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 03:23:26 +0000 Alana in Canada 1359271@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am very impressed with your hard work. I think I should probably have done the same when I first got here, but I did different things--which I needed to do. But I can start now to think ! I think I might just take a look at that book Suz recommended for you.  You have made some terrific insights. Thanks for sharing the journey so openly with us. Staysfit on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359264 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 02:59:48 +0000 Staysfit 1359264@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Kiwigal, you make a good point that I have significantly cut back the items in my closet. I am not planning to fill it again with multiple purchases. I am going to make slow, planned and considered purchases of items where I have a gap, or where I want to update my style. I also plan to do one item in, one item out, so the closet doesn't get overcrowded again. The list is what I'm considering, not what I'm planning to buy. I asked myself the relevant questions that I should ask before making a purchase, pulled together from my post about this topic. I think the most likely purchases will be the blazer, the green boots, and the plaid top. I would love the Rhumba boots but the high heels make them less practical for my everyday life. The remaining items are still under consideration. I like the idea of trying out Angie's idea with Bootcut jeans. I used to have a pair. I have no idea where they are? Maybe my DD has them? Sometimes our clothes get mixed up. She's away at college so I may have to replace them. I like the idea of a shirt dress. I haven't tried one before. I want to replace my wrap dresses. I know I can wear fit and flare dresses as long as the flare isn't too overwhelming. My favorite summer dresses have this silhouette. It's an a-line skirt with a separate blouse that I struggle with. I don't know why one is so much more difficult than the other? Sal on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359250 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 02:25:00 +0000 Sal 1359250@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Wow you are doing great! I think you have the figure type that will suit pretty much all types of trousers and pants....I think you could look great in an ensemble similar to todays bootcuts with a topper etc in your colours.  I also think most blazers and coats will suit you.  I suspect dresses and skirts may be harder - although you can wear shorter ones because of slim long legs.  A shirt dress style might be great because you can definitely wear high collars with your elegant neck.  I am not sure on the colour thing, it is hard for me to tell on a monitor.  You appear to have similar colouring to my Mum who looks wonderful in blues and greens and purples in the mid tones, the right browns and camels and creams... and not so good in very dark colours or pastels.   My only other comment is that you have got rid of plenty of items and you wanted a smaller more manageable closet - so there is no need to get it all at once.  Taking a month off sounds like it has been the right thing to do and I have to say your dedication to learning has been impressive.  I admire all your pics because I keep trying to do more and not doing them! Style Fan on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359239 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 01:29:19 +0000 Style Fan 1359239@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I really enjoyed reading your post.  I may read the book you recommended.  My colouring is warm and I love all the clothes that you have chosen.  I don't wear blue except for denim.  I just consider denim a neutral although I have found some denim is warmer than others. Carla on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359214 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 00:24:13 +0000 Carla 1359214@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Gosh! You are working hard and making giant strides in your style journey. Staysfit on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359212 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 00:14:59 +0000 Staysfit 1359212@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks Elly, I didn't think of Chambray as having undertones.  I knew there were different shades but I only thought of light and dark.  Thanks for alerting me to the blue, gray and green undertones.  I agree that finding one with a green undertone would be best.  I have no idea if I can wear cobalt blue shades or not.  There's only one way to know!  I will have to try some on and see! I agree that some of the camel tones I chose are iffy, and may wash me out, or be too warm?  I know I have to be careful about these.  This is something I have learned with the contrast post.   I have to try things on and then do a careful assessment.  It is so hard to tell with online shopping and I don't have stores with these items nearby. Joy, I am also a bit unsure about the Epaulets on the green dress.  I think that is one detail, plus the price that may keep me from making a purchase. If I can find something in this color, in a similar style to this without the Epaulets, and maybe a little bit longer, I would be very happy.   Thanks for reading Deb!  Anonymous on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359210 Sat, 20 Sep 2014 00:10:44 +0000 Anonymous 1359210@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ You have found some beautiful things. I have nearly worn out a similar style sweater dress with a bit fuller and longer skirt ( Calvin Klein). I don't think I'd like the epaulet detail on the one you posted, but it could work well for you. deb on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359192 Fri, 19 Sep 2014 23:35:13 +0000 deb 1359192@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Staysfit, this is a great post!!! Elly on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359191 Fri, 19 Sep 2014 23:27:37 +0000 Elly 1359191@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think you are a soft autumn. I am a dark autumn, and you and I seem to look good in the same colors, I just wear the deeper, saturated versions. I think that the blazer is a gorgeous color and that the plaid shirt is a highly unusual color palette for a plaid and I could see that suiting you. I agree that experimenting with pants that aren't jeans might be an excellent idea, esp. since racy rectangles look great in a variety of slim trousers and cropped pants which are very chic right now. I'm not sure about the two lighter camel garments, they might be a little washed out but it is hard to tell without seeing them on you. The chambray shirt would be an excellent buy, except that I think it is a cooler blue-- my test for that one would be if you look good in cobalt shades. For you I might suggest one of the ones that has the greenish undertones (chambray is generally blue undertone, gray undertone, or green undertone). The olive dress is gorgeous.  I think all your dedicated hard work is amazing and hopefully pays off in a happier, more stylish wardrobe. Your daughter sounds like loads of fun, lucky gal! I really appreciate you laying all your work out like this-- makes a great journey synopsis post.  Staysfit on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359186 Fri, 19 Sep 2014 23:19:41 +0000 Staysfit 1359186@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ E, the chambray does look like a foreigner among the other finds doesn't it?  I am guessing it won't work well, but I keep trying to find one that might work.  I haven't tried this one.   Good suggestion for a silhouette.  I will look on Pinterest for some inspiration and then see what I can find in stores online and maybe locally as well.   Tanya, I love the idea of bleaching my jeans!  I think that would work really well. I love the fit and style of them, I just want a lighter color.  I will look up how to do this so they don't get too streaky, or maybe a streaky look would be good?  I have enough pairs that I could experiment without difficulty. :-) Thimblelina, The book had a great section on body proportion.  It was easy to understand.  I had to do a few measurements and plug them in, and it became quickly obvious that my rise was long and my legs that much shorter. I bet you can find similar instructions online.  I had some inkling that my legs were short in proportion to everything else - but that was because I believed I was a pear shape, and everything I read about that body shape supported that they often have proportionally short legs    E on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359148 Fri, 19 Sep 2014 22:18:48 +0000 E 1359148@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Wow! So many lessons learned! (I also have a long rise PLUS a long waist. I'm essentially all torso. lol) Based on how that aqua-ish cardigan overwhelmed your colouring (I think in the comparing 2 outfits post?), as well as how stunning you looked in that soft mottled green scarf (the 2nd pic in one of the sets you posted) I'm voting for sticking with an autumn palette vs a spring one. I'm pretty sure my mom is a light spring, and she looks bright & alive in colours like the cardigan and kind of tired/invisible in colours like the scarf. If you'd like to celebrate your rectangle shape, maybe I suggest a waist-surrendering woven blouse over fitted trousers? Such a great look. :D I don't have any shopping advice, sorry! But I love all of the soft autumn colours of the finds you posted. Not sure about the chambray: it might be too bright. You'd probably have to try it out in person. Tanya on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359146 Fri, 19 Sep 2014 22:14:06 +0000 Tanya 1359146@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Impressive!  One great analysis and lots of good lessons learned. I like your shopping list, a lot, especially all the camel items and the tall Rumba boots. I would hold off on the light wash straight leg jeans till you get some other silhouettes.  Maybe try soaking on of your many duplicates of the dark straight jeans in bleach and see what happens? thimblelina on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359143 Fri, 19 Sep 2014 22:10:04 +0000 thimblelina 1359143@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ That regent blazer is beautiful! Great choices all. Now that you mention it I think I have a similar sort of waist/rise situation going on! Staysfit on "7 Days to Go! What I've learned so far and my shopping list.(long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/7-days-to-gowhat-ive-learned-so-far-and-my-shopping-listlong#post-1359134 Fri, 19 Sep 2014 22:01:33 +0000 Staysfit 1359134@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ On August 26, my daughter challenged me to go without spending money on clothing for one month.  I was unsure I could do this.  I was in the habit of impulsively purchasing whatever I wanted, whenever I felt like it, without really considering if it fit with the rest of my wardrobe.  This bad habit resulted in an overwhelming closet filled with too many clothes. My daughter threatened that I could end up on one of the hoarders shows!  I agreed to the challenge, and began my style journey.  I have been successful in not making new purchases, but i did try on clothes, and went into stores.  I have been cleaning out my closet and considering my personal style.  I am pleased with the results so far.   My initial goal for the closet clean out was to eliminate 1/3 of my items.  As of today, I think I have almost cut my belongings in half!   I started by purging anything that was obviously damaged, worn out, scratchy, ill fitting, or outdated.  The next steps seemed less obvious and I needed more input.  This is where I have enjoyed the wonderful support of the YLF community.  I thank everyone who has helped me!  Here are some of the lessons I have learned! 1.  Stay current with silhouettes in tee's/jeans and pay attention to fit - I had 10-15 tee shirts that were body con fit.  Clearly this is no longer the trend, and t-shirts are relatively inexpensive to replace if needed in the future.  I purged all but a few for layering underneath sweaters. Some of my jeans were painfully tight and needed to go -out they went.  2.  Pay attention to necklines - I have a long neck.  I had v-neck sweaters and tops that were sitting rarely used in my closet. I decided v- necks are fine in a cardigan, and occasionally a dress, but not any other form. Good bye V-Necks!  Hello high neck lines that are more flattering. 3,  Clothes look really good in my closet when they are all hanging on the same kind of hanger.  I replaced all the hangers so they are uniform. 4.  I don't really need 11 pairs of the same exact style and color of straight leg jeans, do I?  :-)   How about the same cashmere tee in 7 colors (No)  Get rid of multiples!  Oh, but I am keeping all of my long sleeve crew neck cashmere sweaters even though they are identical except for color, I love them.  Maybe those aren't a mistake after-all. 5.  OMG!  I'm not a pretty pear shape?!  I'm a Racy Rectangle?  Thanks Angie!  Now I understand why I've struggled with all the A-Line skirts, and get overwhelmed with too much arty drape.  No wonder I've struggled with the recommendations for a pear silhouette!  I'm not a pear!  My DD tried to tell me this, but I didn't listen to her.  She is so smart! 6.  Where did all these bright vivid colors come from?  A rainbow exploded in my closet!  Bright orange, yellow and red?  Out they go and off to my DD who can wear them instead.  The closet is getting much leaner. 7.  Mo teaches a great lesson on how to fold her undies, and sports wear!  I love it and it works great.  It is easy to keep up by the way.  Thanks Mo!  I can see all my tops and bottoms now, and they all get used.  It's great.<a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/folding-athletic-wear-per-mo">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....ear-per-mo</a> 8.  I figure out that I have over 80 sweaters, maybe closer to 100, but I wouldn't publicly admit it.  Most of them are solid colors.  I begin to sort this out by picking color schemes, collars, and style words and really looking closely at the sweaters to see if they fit in or should be purged.  They are slowly decreasing in number.  I organize them and store them rolled in under the bed containers. It all looks so neat and tidy now! 9.  I start trying out my 22 Ivory Blouses, and this leads to the idea of developing style words mentioned above.  I use my Pinterest and some old scrap cut outs to develop my words.  10.  Suz mentions two books to help me along with developing my style words.  "Triumph of Individual Style" and "Style Statement".  I have read the first book, and am working on the second.  Very helpful!  Thanks Suz!  (So many interesting things I learned from the "Triumph of Style".   I actually don't have a long waist, I have a long rise!  All these years I though I was long waisted!  Ha!  I was wrong, I am in proportion there.  I have a long rise, and slightly short legs for my height.  I have a combination skeletal-molded body type.  Interesting that the WIW outfits that got the most complements fit the silhouette for this body type most closely.  My face has small features except my nose and eyes, which are medium, and there is very little space.  Also, my features are curved.  I think this is why patterns that are large, angular, or with lots of space don't work well for me.  I tend to do best in small curvy patterns, and with those that have closely spaced details (if you look at my scarves with prints you will see this is the case).  I hope I can use this information to find more patterns that work.   11.  My style words are:  Easy (simple, comfortable, casual, approachable), Creative (fun, funky, arty, eclectic, boho flavors), Calm (soft colors, understated elegance), Graceful (feminine, athletic, light, refined, polished, tasteful), Classic 12.  There were some guesses as to defining my style  based on what I call my uniform of  tall boots, or refined shoes of some sort, jeans a cashmere sweater, and a scarf tied around my neck.  Ie.  euro chic, modern classic, etc.  This helped me hunt for more style ideas and broaden my views for Pinterest, etc. 13.  I asked some questions about what people ask themselves before they make purchases, in this case it was for boots, but it could apply for any item.  The answers were so enlightening that it might be worth reading this post for anyone interested.  <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-questions-do-you-ask-yourself-before-you-buy-boot-edition">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....ot-edition</a> 14.  I also decided it would be a great idea to catalog my clothes to figure out what I am wearing and what I am not.  I started out with Stylebook, but quickly became frustrated.  This led to a lively discussion about cataloging clothes which is definitely worth reading if this interests you.  <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/spreadsheet-vs-stylebook-tracking-my-closet">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....-my-closet</a> 15.  Many of my WIW posts were very helpful.  I learned that I should pay better attention to contrast and color especially near my face.  Marley, especially would repeat that I would look better in a higher contrast top.  So after much thought I prepared some  posts about contrast, and found out that most people think I am medium contrast, not low contrast!  Or at least low to medium contrast.  Now I need to work with this as well as I move forward. 16.  I have also learned that black is not my color at all, and gray and navy aren't either.  They will likely be worked out of my closet as I am able to replace them with better items in more appropriate colors from my palette.   Now here is the hard part.  What is my color palette?  I thought I was a soft autumn, but Rabbit raised the question of whether I am a light spring.  Very good question?  I am guessing the soft autumn is still correct.  Does anyone have another opinion of this? Finally, I am down to what it is I would like to purchase when my month of no spending is done.  Not all at once of course!  What do I need?  What do I want?  What is missing in my closet? 1.  I do not have much variety in jeans.  I have straight leg jeans (Ha ha!  I have that covered for years to come)  and skinny toothpick jeans, mostly in dark blue denim.  i have one pair in soft pink and one in dove grey which i purchased just before this deal with DD started.  I would like some bootleg jeans, a pair of trouser jeans, and a pair of boyfriend jeans. 2.  I wanted a pair of track pants.  I posted some that I found from J Crew.  They were too short, and didn't look right.  I think the proportions were wrong.  I don't know if this is a good look for me or not.  Now that I know more about my body type, I am inclined to think it could work, but maybe they would need to be longer, they would need to reach my ankles.  I was looking at Athleta's slouchy metro pant, but those are maybe too casual. 3.  A blazer - I finally found one and I like it.  It is from J Crew though.  It is their Regent Blazer.  (See below).  I tried on several colors in the store, and the size 6 regular not tall, fits me - the salesperson told me they are running small).   4.  A plaid shirt - I have no idea if this one would work for me, but it has warm colors so it might be worth a try.  What do you think? 5.  The boots I already mentioned in a previous post, green lace-ups. 6.  How about this sweater dress by Marc Jacobs?  I love the color.  It's pricey.  It would replace a gray and black stripe sweater dress in my closet. 7.  I'm loving the Rhumba boot by Aquatalia in chocolate brown, but they make many colors.   8.  I don't own a chambray shirt.  I don't know if I should.  Here is one from J Crew.  I don't know if this is a warm blue? 9.  I love turtlenecks and wanted to update the silhouette of mine.  This one looks to be the best color of the sweaters I could find online.  The others were too cool in tone.  I don't know if this camel will work for me or not.  I can try it and see.  Sometimes it washes me out, other times it is great. 10.  I love the idea of a long sweater jacket.  I am knitting one right now, but it will take a while.  Here is one from Vince, and it is in a beautiful Camel color.  I like the texture of the knit. 11.  Still looking for cognac boots. 12.  Looking for long sleeve blouses and tops with interesting prints or in solids that will look good with my current skirts and jeans. 13.  One nice pair of dress pants in a good color for my soft autumn coloring.  Hopefully it will coordinate well with my soon to be new blazer. 14.  One pair of light wash straight leg jeans. 15.  I am still looking at ways to update my silhouettes.  I think it might be fun to try some straighter silhouettes to honor my rectangle shape.  16.  I also like the idea of playing with asymmetry.  17.  Finally, I think I need some replacement dresses because most of my dresses are wrap style and I have grown less fond of them.  This is something that can take time because I have my pencil skirts, and I am happy with those. If you've stuck with me this far, thanks!  I know this was very long