https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Fri, 10 Apr 2026 20:33:55 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2234016 Mon, 25 Oct 2021 03:15:23 +0000 CarolS 2234016@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks, Rachy -- you are so right! It's quite daunting to think of all the different things one actually NEEDS -- let alone the wants. I have plenty of work ahead to train myself to think more strategically about what I actually NEED rather than just buying emotionally. Slow and steady... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2234012 Mon, 25 Oct 2021 02:34:05 +0000 rachylou 2234012@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>When you’re building and rebuilding a wardrobe… it’s just a lot of clothes to buy. And one can theorise, but the truth comes out in the actual seeing and trying on. It also takes time. You have to make at least one trip around the sun to get clothes for all the seasons… and not every year pans out in the shops(!)</p> <p>… lol, so I guess what I’m saying is, be prepared for the journey to continue…! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2233864 Sun, 24 Oct 2021 04:05:05 +0000 CarolS 2233864@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks, Jenni. I don't mind being held to account! I am in a weird place where I am drowning in clothes that are in various stages of not fitting, and yet it's hard to justify a lot of purchases until I know more about how much more I will lose and what my lifestyle and needs will be. In the meantime,&nbsp;</p> <p>Sally -- I do find that writing it down helps to process things. I've started to make notes about what I envision needing in each season and for different activities. But it can be very hard to refrain from buying, can't it?!&nbsp;</p> <p>Thanks, Stagiaire Fash -- Winter is my vulnerable season, but I've sustained my dietary and lifestyle changes since spring, and I'm optimistic that I can continue.&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you, Tanya. Yes, I think it will be more fun and more focussed later.&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2233798 Sat, 23 Oct 2021 21:26:37 +0000 Jenni NZ 2233798@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It sounds like your reasons are sensible. I didn’t reply at first since I felt like I would be being Mrs Downer about the amount you had bought. After all I may espouse buying less these days but I got to the forum by feeling I was drowning in clothes so I can’t be a hypocrite when others buy! And I have also lost weight so now a small number of my items are getting too big. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2233767 Sat, 23 Oct 2021 19:43:33 +0000 Sally 2233767@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I so get this about buying up after a weight loss.&nbsp; Everything seems to fit differently and its easier to find clothes that fit. Its good that you were able to take a step back and decide what is really practical to keep but still have variety to put outfits together.&nbsp; I felt like I went a bit overboard recently and got some new things to try but like you didn't keep everything.&nbsp; I keep meaning to write everything down so i can analyse if I need anything else and in what direction I mean to go.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2233721 Sat, 23 Oct 2021 16:09:35 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2233721@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sounds like a great decision, one that shows faith and confidence that you will continue with your plan, and that whatever diet &amp; exercise you’re using will remain effective. Hu-rah! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2233698 Sat, 23 Oct 2021 13:48:02 +0000 Tanya 2233698@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have just read about the items you decided the return and reasons, those all sound very logical to me.&nbsp; I am sure you will have even more fun shopping once your weight stabilizes! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2233695 Sat, 23 Oct 2021 13:40:46 +0000 CarolS 2233695@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks again to everyone for providing so much excellent food for thought. Original post ETA a bunch of returns. </p> <p>I decided I'm not ready to add so many things that I hope soon won't fit me. I will be happier making do for a while longer until I have a better sense of where I am going to stabilize. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232629 Mon, 18 Oct 2021 00:30:07 +0000 CarolS 2232629@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks so much for the thoughtful comments everyone. My apologies for disappearing. I went out of town to visit my parents yesterday and the wifi there isn't so great. When I got home, DH and I went for a walk in the park and then ordered in dinner to celebrate our anniversary. Now he is free to watch football and I am back on the forum!</p> <p>I actually wrote a lengthy reply last night, but my parents' wifi could not send it through, so I will try again!</p> <p>Angie -- thank you -- you are so right. Having even a few new things does make a difference. As others have commented, it also feels good to see how my existing items&nbsp; hang differently on me now, and I'm enjoying that in many cases, too.</p> <p>Suntiger -- you understand the sense of urgency to stock up on earth tones while they are available!! And I am trying to make choices that wlll still work in a size or two.</p> <p>Bijou -- such a great advice about not being precious and just wearing things. Not my forte, somehow, but I AM working on it. I have tried to wear the heck out of my white jeans, assuming they will not fit by next year. Same with my camel-coloured topper.&nbsp;</p> <p>CocoLion -- I am notorious for keeping widows/orphans. I find something I love, but then it takes forever to find the perfect pieces to complete it. Sigh, But I AM doing my best to fuel the economy.</p> <p>Sloper -- yup -- kid in a candy store says it! I'll make my returns this week and then probably steer clear of the stores for a while. As you suggest, it's time to play around with what I have - including my older pieces -- to see what fits, what works in new ways, what's ready to be totally put aside. And once the snow flies, I see some list making in my future in preparation for spring or some version of return to the office -- whichever comes first!</p> <p>Shevia -- Thank you! I'm not so much being hard on myself as just a bit bemused by the total "kid in a candy store"-ness of my response. (thanks to Sloper for hitting the nail on the head) Outfit lab is in order for sure.</p> <p>Tanya -- yup -- I've done some outfit labs already, but I could use more to help me decide. Given I have nowhere to go right now, I also have to consider, just because I CAN put an outfit together, will I have occasion to do so while this item still fits. THAT is the hard one for me to be honest with myself about.</p> <p>Thanks Sal -- I probably could still return the blouse if I could figure out which was the right tag. I'll play with it a bit more to be sure if I want to keep it. I so agree that sometimes black is just RIGHT.&nbsp;</p> <p>Vildy -- thank you. My initial thought is I can't imagine anything under that skirt, but I'll test it with tights first and then think about whether a pettipant or slip of some kind might be an option. You give me some good food for thought!</p> <p>Katerina -- thank you for the kind comment about the topper. I do have to say that I almost didn't post the find, and I certainly would not have bought the velvet jacket from the manufacturers image. You made my day! And it's nice to know others also wrestle with the question of how MUCH black!&nbsp;</p> <p>Carla -- thank you. I really like your Lands End puffer and highly encourage you to copycat with a scarf in 'your' orange! It's a delightful mix. We have to do what we can to get through winter!</p> <p>Stagiaire Fash -- No worries! You did not come across sharply at all and I really appreciated the comment. A more objective observer can raise questions about things that seem contradictory -- things I might not even see. That's the value of getting feedback here. I am also thinking very hard about your comments that many of the other pieces seem like things I could replace at almost any time. I have certainly considered in some cases whether I would get more enjoyment from something completely different in a few months. You've given me excellent food for thought.</p> <p>Thanks again to all for your kind, supportive and helpful feedback!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232515 Sun, 17 Oct 2021 14:51:49 +0000 Angie 2232515@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It's very important to have items that fit and that you enjoy on your weight loss journey. Make sure you like them, that they pass the practical test, and that you can create complete outfits with them! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232474 Sun, 17 Oct 2021 11:23:44 +0000 Anonymous 2232474@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sooo relatable! I've bought up a storm this year too between weight loss, available earth tones, returning to the office and related depression, returning to B&amp;M shopping, and shifting to a more classic style. It's so easy to go to excess! </p> <p>They're great pieces, and sound very practical, so I think you're fine with the purchases. But agreeing about not adding more though if you are still in transition with weight and life. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232450 Sun, 17 Oct 2021 07:31:45 +0000 Bijou 2232450@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Carol, you are in a wardrobe rebuilding phase, so it makes sense that you need some new items. I too can understand the need and desire to buy things that fit. My philosophy is that life it too short to wear clothes that don't make you feel fab. </p> <p>You have dieted and worked hard to get to this size, where frankly you look wonderful in the fashion posts you have provided. Keep everything you LOVE and wear and enjoy them. Given you expect to drop a size or two further, be particularly picky about which items make the grade and don't be precious with the items you keep, just wear the heck out of them. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232430 Sun, 17 Oct 2021 05:17:56 +0000 CocoLion 2232430@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Here's what I have to say:&nbsp; Thank you for supporting your local, national, continental and global economy!</p> <p>As far as keeping things, my advice is to prefer those pieces that will combine into outfits most naturally.&nbsp; Also, take note of how <b>many</b> different outfits the new item inspires.</p> <p>Having said that, I don't always follow my own advice.&nbsp; I'll keep a wildcard/orphan with great hopes for it, and it will languish unworn until I finally admit defeat and get rid of it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232421 Sun, 17 Oct 2021 04:19:10 +0000 Sloper 2232421@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think you are doing the right thing by writing and listing and thinking!&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>I definitely relate to weight changes and wardrobe evolutions.</p> <p>This most absolutely:</p> <p><i>"Given the fit/flattery challenges at my higher weight, I was so conditioned to snapping up anything that made me feel even remotely presentable that I WAAAY overbought when more things started to work for my shape."</i></p> <p>Very much kid-in-a-candy-store feelings!</p> <p>Maybe take a wee break from shopping and play with your lists and new items for a while - there are always new deliveries in the stores (at least I think so - I haven't had an in-person retail experience since COVID). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232406 Sun, 17 Oct 2021 02:33:50 +0000 Jaime 2232406@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Really do not be hard on yourself with the thrill of being able to find things you like after a long time. I like Tanya's idea of an outfit lab to test the items you are unsure about! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232370 Sun, 17 Oct 2021 00:40:36 +0000 Tanya 2232370@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It looks that you have/had a need for the purchased items, so as long as they make you happy and are not causing budget issues, than why not?&nbsp; I'd suggest doing&nbsp; something along the lines of "Outfit Lab" with the items you are unsure of.&nbsp; &nbsp;My usual criteria are if I can put together 2-3 perfect outfits with the said item and others already existing in my closet, and then "Would I wear this outfit tomorrow if a perfect opportunity showed up" (or would I rather choose something else from my&nbsp; closet). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232361 Sat, 16 Oct 2021 22:47:30 +0000 Sal 2232361@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><i></i>I can understand the urge too.&nbsp; I don't know about in Canada but if I had taken the tags off, or they had fallen off I would try and take it back if I genuinely had not worn the item.&nbsp; I like the look of that puffer!&nbsp; And new footwear that works moving forward is a great choice.</p> <p>I think there is always a balancing act with black.&nbsp; I like it for several reasons - I do think it looks chic, it is practical to match and mix, it can be flattering, and it is easy to find.....&nbsp; I am trying to move away from it but still need a few pieces (eg I am looking for a casual summer top to go with skirts and bottoms containing black...- other colours won't work). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232358 Sat, 16 Oct 2021 22:34:31 +0000 Vildy 2232358@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Eons ago they made and I owned a taffeta slip for clingy knits.&nbsp;<br />Jen of YourEverydayStyle recently sorted clothing - she was discussing the qualities of underpants - into slip and grip.&nbsp; If you have two items with each having grip - they cling, creep, bunch as you move.&nbsp; Solution is a half slip.&nbsp; Or maybe pettipants.&nbsp; Might could find something at online thrifting sites if not available commercially anymore.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232343 Sat, 16 Oct 2021 19:59:37 +0000 Katerina 2232343@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Carol, I truly appreciate this post and thank you for sharing your purchases, thoughts and plans. I am afraid I do not have any smart advice here, but wanted to say that I relate to a lot of what you are experiencing. Both the thrill of loosing some weight and the subsequent urge to shop, and the challenge to find things to be happy about at the larger size. Have been there a few times around. If an item of clothing makes you feel great and does not blow up your budget - it is worth the price. I also hear you about the love of black versus the desire for variety. Balancing on a thin line myself. The result is often to the detriment of variety Last thing - I have not seen the find regarding your grey velvet topper before, only saw the topper on you. And OMG - you wear it so much better than the model here! They should use you to model it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232342 Sat, 16 Oct 2021 19:28:11 +0000 Carla 2232342@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I&nbsp;<b></b>am&nbsp;<b>so glad&nbsp;</b>that you are picking up some garments that&nbsp;<i>fit&nbsp;</i>the body you have now! &nbsp;Going into the long dark that is our winter season in Canada is a hard enough thing. &nbsp;Wearing garments that fit ill adds insult to injury. &nbsp;I love the idea of orange with the burgundy puffer, and might copy-cat. &nbsp;I picked up a Land’s End puffer last January, and it has become a favourite - even though I’m not a fan of winter. &nbsp;<b></b> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232341 Sat, 16 Oct 2021 18:47:10 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2232341@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sorry if I came across sharply. I can do that sometimes. And I do see the difference between black velvet pants and other black pants. The combo of your new coat &amp; scarf, colors from Angie’s recent post, sounds cool—can’t wait to see it. </p> <p>On the scarcity mindset, I wonder if a little exercise i did soon after starting at ylf (can’t remember who suggested it. Maybe Sterling?) Go “shopping” with the intention of buying nothing. Try on all the things. When sales associates ask what you’re looking for, tell them honestly that you’re revamping your wardrobe after a weight change and want to see how things look on you now. Some will fit like you hope, some will not. You won’t have to make decisions or use willpower, because you aren’t even thinking of taking anything home. Later on, over a glass of Zazz or iced tea, you can consider what worked &amp; what didn’t, if there are things in your wardrobe that could go with x, and so on. But it will all be a dreamy fun exercise, to better equip you for the next time you are ready to buy things. At the very least, I expect you’ll recognize a big wide world of possibilities you can reach for whenever you wish (so you don’t need to stock up). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232337 Sat, 16 Oct 2021 17:41:48 +0000 CarolS 2232337@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for easing my guilt a bit, ladies!</p> <p>Janet -- yes, IKWYM about needing to know what you aren't before you know what you are. I expect to retire at some point in the next year or two, and that will also chage my needs. WFH is actually a pretty good opportunity to test that out a bit. But yes, I don't yet know what I will learn about myself on this leg of the journey! Trial and error will be a fact of life.</p> <p>Suz -- yes, I hope much of this will continue to serve through further weight loss. I will do some tests with the skirt next week. I am already committed to the oatmeal version as I've worn it, but knowing how it performs will help decide the fate of the grey. The footwear will go a long way toward giving me more options with the pieces I have. I was VERY limited.</p> <p>Stagiare Fash -- I know it's a bit contradictory! I still enjoy black, and I think it will always factor in my wardrobe. So, I want more variety, but not at the expense of ALL black items IYKWIM. That said, your comment will help me be doubly sure that I'm being mindful of what I keep and how it factors into my anticipated future plans. And good point about some things being just as easy to pick up at almost any point. I've been trying to remind myself of that - trying to let go of the scarcity mindset that has driven my shopping the last few years. Thank you! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232334 Sat, 16 Oct 2021 17:19:32 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2232334@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I was going to say keep the short top no one wanted you to wear and maybe the velvet pants, because those are the two items you seem attracted to, rather than the idea of the item. The rest all sounds like stuff you could go out and get another version of tomorrow, now that finding things that fit isn’t so difficult any more. But then I got to the end of your post and saw you want more pattern and variety, which doesn’t seem to jive with those two items. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232332 Sat, 16 Oct 2021 17:11:01 +0000 Suz 2232332@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>First, you are losing weight and need clothing for your new shape! Second, you haven't shopped in a while and are due for a wardrobe refresh at minimum. Third, while you may feel as if things have got out of control, your reasoning seems sound and these purchases make sense. The footwear, in particular -- it comes with a hefty price tag, but it makes a huge difference to your outfits (and your comfort) and it will still fit after you reach your goal weight. Ditto for many of the knit items. And probably the coat, as well. Certainly, the scarf! :)&nbsp;</p> <p>Meanwhile, I can't wait to see more of these items in action!&nbsp; :)&nbsp;</p> <p>Re the knit skirt -- I understand this issue and have been there. In fact, I'm there with an item right now. My advice is to do a try-on session with tights and see if it it wearable that way. And if not, it probably needs to go. Note that some kinds of hose might work better than others. A thick knit might cling more to the knit than sheer hose will -- or maybe not! With sheers, static cling could be an issue. This is the curse of cold winters and skirts/ dresses. Another thought -- how about Heattech (or similar) long undies, socks, and boots with the skirt? That might work. I'm going to test this out with my item today.&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232331 Sat, 16 Oct 2021 17:03:35 +0000 Janet 2232331@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think it’s totally natural to go through a bit of a buying phase after weight loss! I have a distant memory of that myself. I also bought lots of things because all of a sudden I “could” wear them in a way I couldn’t at a larger size. It was easier to find the sizes and fit into the clothes, and they hung differently on my body. So yes, I completely understand! </p> <p>That period of weight loss a decade ago coincided with me discovering YLF, so it was a perfect storm of inspiration/copycat, experimentation, and a new size body to dress. After a time I settled in and started to hone my own personal style more, realizing that some of what I bought was not going to be my style moving forward. That’s ok, I had to discover a bit of what I wasn’t to learn what I was, if you know what I mean. </p> <p>Now I’m back at a larger size, many years, post-menopause, and no longer running marathons, but I still carry the lessons I learned about my style. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-little-overboard-recent-additions-maybes-long#post-2232329 Sat, 16 Oct 2021 16:33:22 +0000 CarolS 2232329@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>ETA: I have made decisions and returned a few things I was on the fence about. Others still in the works. Everyone's thoughtful input has really helped!</b></p> <p>I had some grand ideals about moderation and frugality this fall, but I came up against two factors that challenged my resolve:</p> <ul> <li>The need to find something to wear for my nephew's wedding and associated events meant I needed to shop. After losing a significant amount of weight not much in my closet fit, and I had literally zero dressy shoes.&nbsp;</li> <li>Once I got into the stores, I got a bit caught up in the thrill of feeling good in things I tried on. Since it was too early for much holiday wear to be available, I was trying on anything I remotely thought could be dressed up or passed off. And frankly, I tried on (and bought) lots of stuff just because I liked it and was so thrilled that it fit.</li> </ul> <p>Given the fit/flattery challenges at my higher weight, I was so conditioned to snapping up anything that made me feel even remotely presentable that I WAAAY overbought when more things started to work for my shape.&nbsp; </p> <p>Now that the festivities are behind me, I spent last night going through my recent purchases and deciding what to keep. I am still on the fence with a few pieces, but MOST of what I brought home is going back.&nbsp;</p> <p>Here's a rundown of this fall's keepers:<br /><b>Outerwear</b> </p> <ul> <li>Burgundy Bernardo long puffer jacket (on deep discount at the Bay)</li> <li>Bright orange plaid scarf to go with it. :-)</li> </ul> <p><b>Shoes<br /></b>This represents the start of a long-overdue expansion of my shoe wardrobe, which has been pretty limited lately.</p> <ul> <li>Burgundy Ecco Sartorelle oxfords (deep discount at the Ecco outlet - I figure a low-risk way to try this style. If it works, I might buy in another colour.)</li> <li>Bronze metallic Ecco Soft 7s&nbsp;</li> <li>Cognac Olukai sneakers</li> <li>Black patent croc-embossed Clarks loafers (my "dressy" shoe!)</li> </ul> <p><b>Bottoms</b></p> <ul> <li>Oatmeal knit midaxi tube skirt (with pockets thank you very much). Its sister, in grey, is in my keep or not keep zone right now.</li> <li>Lightweight rayon camo joggers</li> <li>Black knit trumpet-style midi skirt</li> </ul> <p><b>Tops and Toppers</b></p> <ul> <li>Creamy/taupy/mushroomy boxy sweater -- Only via a local boutique</li> <li>Olive Tahari utility-style jacket -- very lightweight</li> <li>Olive Tahari t-neck top</li> <li>L/s green graphic tee</li> <li>Heathered light grey sweatshirt-style tee&nbsp;</li> <li>Lightweight pink sweatshirt</li> <li>Grey velvet embroidered jacket (taupe one has to go back -- it is sewn badly at the neck -- doesn't sit properly)</li> <li>Black lace blouse. <b>ETA - RETURNED. I want a lace blouse, but I will wait for better.</b>&nbsp;</li> <li>Lurex tank <b>ETA - RETURNED. I liked it from the front, but not the back. Next.</b></li> </ul> <p>And two new bras! </p> <p><b>On the Fence</b> </p> <ul> <li><b>ETA - RETURNED.</b> Burgundy Christian Siriano sweater with lurex threads. <b>Not needed and still a bit snugger than my preferred fit,</b> but I adore the colour.</li> <li>Cream, grey, black and camel striped French Connection sweater (if weather had turned cold sooner I probably would have worn it right away and been done with it. Now I've had time to waffle....)</li> <li>Heavy-weight simple black short top. <b>ETA Returning -- not really a priority right now. </b>No one, including my visiting niece would allow me to wear this to the wedding, but I still like it. I can see a cute Audrey Hepburn vibe with cropped black pants, cropped jeans -- will see...</li> <li>Grey version of the oatmeal skirt above. <b>ETA WILL RETURN - I ONLY NEED ONE. </b>I love this skirt. The grey works pretty well with the grey velvet jacket. But I don't know how great this skirt will be with tights for winter wear -- I think it could make it clingy - so maybe not a very practical item to keep?</li> <li>Black velvet wide leg pants. At $20 these seems like a no-brainer to keep around, and after seeing DonnaF rock velvet pants for a routine outing, I started to think a bit more broadly about how I might use them.</li> <li>Jones New York cognac faux suede shacket. <b>ETA Will return. Don't need it this winter. </b>Didn't think I needed a shacket until I saw this colour. I probably still don't need it. But I like it. Will fight with myself a bit more on this one...</li> <li>Dark brown faux suede boxy long-blazer style jacket. <b>ETA Will return. It just isn't special enough, despite being brown.&nbsp;</b>I hate to miss out on brown while it is available...This works with the oatmeal skirt. Could serve as a blazer if we return to the office.&nbsp;</li> <li>Cognac t-neck sweatshirt. <b>ETA will return. The fabric rides up over my bust when I move so I'll always be fussing with it. </b>Love the colour. It spices up black ponte pants for WFH. I worry a heavy t-neck like this will be too much when a hot flash hits. As much as I love t-necks, I am finding them hot at certain times. (joys of this stage of life!)</li> </ul> <p>My gawd that's a lot. And the list above doesn't include the bags of things that are sitting in bags waiting to go back. (Oops, I might have forgotten to add a long cream cardigan I threw in for no real reason other than that I liked the knit.<b>ETA RETURNED </b>I<b> already have a long, light coloured cardigan,</b> so this is probably excessive.) </p> <p>Having detailed this list of what I'm keeping and what I'm still considering is a bit sobering, considering I was trying not to buy much at all... </p> <p>Although I admit I am fighting the urge to add a pair of dark brown pants sooner than later, I still see making do with existing ponte pants for as much of the winter as possible. When it is NOT possible anymore I will enjoy treating myself to something new.&nbsp;</p> <p>I try to justify the tops a bit by saying most of them help to fill a gap -- I kept finding myself looking for boxy, semi-tuckable, lightweight crewneck tops and really had none. (Instead I have a closet full of t-necks that were not cutting it in the warmer weather)&nbsp;</p> <p>Despite the extent of these purchases, lots still on my wish list to add more colour/pattern variety. I won't chronicle these just yet, and keep reminding myself that I don't have to get it all at once.&nbsp;</p> <p>If you've read this far, thanks for playing along. I'm not really sure of the point of this bit of navel gazing, but I suppose it helps to keep me at least a bit accountable for and aware of what I'm doing!&nbsp;</p> <p>Comments and thoughts are always welcome!</p>