https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 14 Apr 2026 23:50:59 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019599 Sun, 14 Apr 2019 10:57:44 +0000 Liesbeth 2019599@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Suntiger: yes, I try to add texture but I can see now that I haven’t done so as much inreality. Kibbe doesn’t really resonate with me but I’m intrigued you’d call me a dramatic.<br /> ChristelJ and liz: thanks, I’m definitely trying to use proportion though that may be amped up further probably. It’s hard though, my frame is easily overwhelmed with too much fabric or drama.<br /> Smittie: yes, sometimes I do think that as well. That some of my outfits would look better if I sat down ankles crossed in front of a pale grey wall :-D. Still for real life I’m going with a bit more visual interest.<br /> Barbara Diane: hah, I prefer crewnecks myself - but still enjoy the occasional high v-neck<br /> Rachylou: both very good suggestions. Scarves are an option for work, you’re right that I wouldn’t wear them indoors around my toddler.<br /> Shevia: thanks for putting my feet back on the ground, tinkering with existing pieces is underrated yet essential.<br /> Jessikams: some others said this too, it’s definitely on my list of things to try: more (color containing) pattern. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019592 Sun, 14 Apr 2019 09:19:04 +0000 Jessikams 2019592@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I haven’t read all of this yet, but you say you have too many neutrals and find it a bit boring- and you also say you are bad with color- I think you can solve both issues by adding a few printed/patterned pieces. They will add spice and tie your neutrals together. And you can look carefully at the prints to see how they use color or bring various colors together within the print. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019566 Sun, 14 Apr 2019 01:38:00 +0000 Jaime 2019566@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Such good advice already and great inspiration pictures! You have a great basis and just need to tweak it until you see what you are after. I would start by tinkering with the details. Maybe turn up the cuff on the trousers - I think you could show more ankle with the heeled oxfords. Add a scarf or other accessory. Adjust the tops to make them more or less slouchy. Try a more oversized top. And so on. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019565 Sun, 14 Apr 2019 01:13:26 +0000 rachylou 2019565@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What strikes me is that the outfits with the scarves look finished. The others seem to be waiting for that last thing. But grabby baby fingers may make you weary of wearing scarves and jewelry a lot. IDK. Maybe a few pieces - a jacket or sweater or something - with some detailing to take their place is a possibility... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019539 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 22:20:35 +0000 Liz 2019539@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><div>I like what ChristelJ said. It seems to me, in comparing your photos with your inspiration photos, that the inspirational photos all <i>push</i> something further than you're pushing it. Maybe doing that would start adding in the rebel part of your statement. For example, try on your outfits in photos 2 and 3 and with the tops slouched more, less tidy, barely semi-tucked. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Or push a silhouette even further. For example, the gray pants in your inspiration photo (the one that focuses on the pants and white sneakers) are slouchy trousers "pushed" further because of the loose fit, the rolled cuffs, and the casual fabric. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019486 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 16:06:34 +0000 Barbara Diane 2019486@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ok, completely different angle here. I think you have the basics down, and have received a lot of good advice. Not taking your theme in mind, I noticed I prefer v-necks on you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019484 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 16:01:13 +0000 smittie 2019484@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You can do those inspo looks that you posted, and as far as I can tell, you’re already there. </p> <p>The difference between you and these women is not beauty: it is the lighting and artistry of the photography, IMO. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019469 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 14:19:50 +0000 ChristelJ 2019469@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>In the photos of the vibe you like, the main thing that jumps out at me is proportion. The pieces in the photos have very slouchy, relaxed proportions and trendy cuts. Perhaps you could experiment with one piece per outfit that is more relaxed than the others, to provide more contrast. A loose sweater with a welt, a loose blouse reigned in with a belt, or a loose third piece like a coat or blazer in a slouchy or modern cut. I love your direction overall. The details like your scarves and shoes really amp it up too. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019453 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 12:45:43 +0000 Anonymous 2019453@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like 7 especially, so now I'm thinking texture: herringbone, marled colors, leather, etc-but mixed with lace or sheen or other softness. I think a long coat like 2 and 4 would work well. Your hair and face are more yin, but your body is yang-definitely the Dramatic type. #1, 3 and 6 look more Classic-Natural. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019446 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 12:21:53 +0000 Liesbeth 2019446@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>1 to 4 are some pics of the vibe I love but at the same time know can’t fully follow. Either they only look good because modeled on gorgeous women, or it’s just that I don’t feel feminine or interesting at all if I just wear neutral basics. I’m finding it very hard right now to find pictures on pinterest that fully represent what I do want to go for. I rounded some up (one Angie styling suggestion) and have to admit that although these last ones are still neutral heavy they do include interesting pattern and detail, in more than one outfit component... must sleep on this. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019439 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 11:43:44 +0000 Liesbeth 2019439@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, thanks for all the great input. I’m glad too to have received some validation that at least I have managed to build a good foundation, am conveying the style persona somewhat accurately, and that some of you even liked some outfits as they are :).<br /> Runcarla: thanks for enriching this topic with those beautiful pictures. Yes, I am trying for a little less minimal look. I do think I need some more fun detail, and will look for inspiration in those old pics, but also don’t want to become too literal lest I feel like I’m playing dress up. A good watch and bag may already be lovely. Also, I’d love to find a nice waistcoat, but they seem totally unavailable at retail right now. Maybe try vintage or etsy if I’m really sure I want one...<br /> Brooklyn: You’re completely right. patterned pants have been on my wishlist for over 6 months now... I found the ezy’s in a very subtle pinstripe (not pictured) and hope to find some houndstooth too at some point, or gingham for summer.<br /> Jules: good suggestion, though I’d feel compelled to balance statement footwear with my figure flattery priority number 2 (1 being not wanting to emphasize my pear shape) of trying to look taller by elongating legs. Maybe I can find some trendy footwear in light colors or metallics so as to get both an uninterupted line and some interest...<br /> Smittie: I got the pants in beige too (white not being practical and pink just a little too much for me :)) for when the weather warms up. I also like the ‘one outfit’ idea. Would need to save up and really look hard for that one though. Will ponder more on where to spend my bucks. Perhaps a long term plan.<br /> SarahDB: I’ll add some images in a follow-up answer to clarify. Yes, a polka dot blouse would be awesome. I impulse bought another handkerchief scarf yesterday so ON IT :).<br /> Joy: funny that you should point out my short waist, when I explicitly seek to elongate my leg line and emphasize a high waist :). So I will mostly take up your last bit of advice to wear what gives me joy. I will try the dress as a duster too, even though that scares me a little!<br /> Suntiger: a bridge item, that’s the perfect description of this scarf! Not too loud for my tastes qnd easy to wear, yet plenty interesting. I would love to find more of these but think they need to be stumbled upon as happened with the scarf...<br /> Krishnidoux: lovely to hear you again! Thanks for the compliments! I bought this blazr second-hand actually to test-drive the longer length. I have found it most flattering on skinny jeans or over a dress (yes!). Maybe an upgrade with more structure in it would work here too... I don’t belt blazers because it restricts my freedom to quickly put them on or take them off if I get hot/cold, though I like the look. White has been under consideration for some time, haha. I have a little obsession over my teeth looking too yellow when wearing a crisp white shirt or even collar close to my face :/ </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019428 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 10:45:43 +0000 krishnidoux 2019428@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Totally out of topic, yet I feel compelled: can't help but notice your wonderful booties. I was noticing how they participate in the garçonne look. I happen to have gotten similar ones last week. If you are ever looking for a very similar ones (in fact I thought they were the same) look for Fluchos (9806) in marron. Leather with shock absorbing souls.</p> <p>Now on to your fab analysis and your looks!</p> <p>1) The outfits above do nail the garçonne, androgyne-chic urban look. One elelment that participates in this is your hair. Do keep it square bob or blob (long bob) parted in the middle, with a little natural curl. It's very suiting and appealing. Another winning element in my mind is the drapey nature of most pieces, yet their fit is impeccable. Take for example the outfit in 11. Bottom and top show ankle and wrists, while not being skin tight, yet everything is harmonious and balanced.&nbsp;</p> <p>2) You need white. A crisp white shirt, even the hint of a tee.&nbsp;</p> <p>3) Absolutely everything in 5 is so adorable and current, do keep, do wear.</p> <p>4) My favorites above are hands down 7 and 8.</p> <p>5) Blazer in 4: not working. Not that it's 80's, but the fit is off. Yes you could wear long length but with a different cut. Wear this one with a very classic, not too thick leather belt (no need to close the blazer itself) or as is with a midi print flowey skirt in a lightweight&nbsp;material.&nbsp;</p> <p>You have great style!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019425 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 10:36:28 +0000 Anonymous 2019425@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like 8 best too, as it's the most visually interesting, and agreeing with the others for addtions. I'd like to see a third piece with the others-topper, necklace, hat, etc.<br /> You said you didn't feel your neutrals go together. How about finding more pieces that bridge the neutrals-prints or tweeds etc-like your leopard scarf does? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019416 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 05:16:36 +0000 Anonymous 2019416@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Random thoughts:<br /> You do have the tension between masculine and feminine.<br /> Formal can be relaxed and casual can be fussy. I would say that your outfits look basic and are of classic type pieces. I do not care for #1 or the overalls in #10 on you. #1 might be improved by wearing the blouse more blouse over the edge of the waistband. I have the same problem being short waisted and find this helps or wearing a belt that matches the top, therefore it visually drops the waist a bit.<br /> The overalls waist also hits really high. A jacket or duster over it might help. It could be worn open. Or try a long scarf that can detract from the heaviness of the look. The other outfits look fine to me. The dress does not look like it fits quite right in the photo ( maybe something in the pockets?, but the scarf looks great. Have you tried wearing the dress unbuttoned as a duster over any of your cigarette pant outfits? I think it would still work with your moniker but add a modern touch.<br /> I need to embrace simplicity.<br /> Wear what you feel best in and ignore my ramblings. Confidence and happiness are the best looks of all. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019407 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 02:11:48 +0000 SarahD8 2019407@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You have a solid start here! I agree with others that your color palette shown here suits you well, as do these shapes &amp; proportions. I do see a masculine/feminine mix, but I agree with others (and I think you) that you just need some finishing touches to take these outfits to the next level. </p> <p>My faves are 4, 5, and 8 because they do have that extra bit going on: 4 with the topper (it doesn't read 80s to me, those long blazers allude to the 40s too), 5 with the bolder footwear and jaunty scarf, 8 with the leopard scarf.</p> <p>Maybe gather together the items you own that could add a bit of color/contrast/print and try to include at least one in each outfit?</p> <p>Great suggestions above. Some more ideas:<br />-A funky brooch at the neckline of your simple pullover sweater<br />-An old-fashioned sparkly barrette in your hair<br />-Masculine footwear but in a bolder color or metallic?<br />-Blouse with a small-scale pattern -- very 40s (see attached photo)<br />-More neckerchiefs! :-)</p> <p>Can you share any of your inspiration images, and also describe what you might want to do differently to "rebel"? I *think* I know what style you're talking about but I'm not 100% sure. (If I'm right, yes, it's taken over Pinterest -- I pinned like ONE outfit in that style amidst a sea of tweeds and fair isles and now that's ALL Pinterest will show me.)<br />&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019402 Sat, 13 Apr 2019 00:18:51 +0000 smittie 2019402@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Some really random thoughts:</p> <p>- Love the neckerchief outfit!<br /> - Your look is quite minimal, and if you want to go in this direction, I think FIT and QUALITY of fabrics will be key.<br /> - Maybe some subtle texture and pattern would be something to think about.<br /> - Colour palette is very subdued. I think it works for you, so stick with it.<br /> - if you really want to introduce more colour, (which is not always necessary), one thing you could do is buy a complete outfit (top and bottom) together in a couple of colours that are non-neutrals so that you have one for-sure good outfit with the potential to remix the colourful pieces with some of your neutrals.</p> <p>- I love the pleated tapered pants (1). How about in another colour? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019401 Fri, 12 Apr 2019 23:03:19 +0000 Jules 2019401@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I agree with Run Carla’s assessment. The leopard scarf would work in other outfits as well. The other thing I would suggest is slightly trendier footwear. A loafer with just a bit more visual interest - a lug sole, a metallic detail, pattern and/or colour blocking - would elevate almost everyone one of these outfits, so you’d get a lot of bang for your buck. Shoes can be slowly collected and updated over time so that you have a couple of options in rotation to complete your classic outfits. Now, with flats so trendy, is really a fun time to invest in footwear that is stylish and practical. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019400 Fri, 12 Apr 2019 22:57:31 +0000 Brooklyn 2019400@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I can see 40s tomboy and the masculine/feminine tension that you speak about. I see smart and polished but also relaxed and minimal. I like 8 the best. Partly because (as RC says) you’ve added a completer piece but partly because you’ve added some pattern and contrast. Pattern, a touch of contrast or shine tends to lift an outfit (in my opinion). </p> <p>I see a lot of dark pants + neutral or coloured top. Would you consider lighter coloured pants (for more contrast)? Or patterned pants? The pattern could be dark and subtle if that’s your preference eg pinstripe or houndstooth. I think it might add that interest that you are looking for.</p> <p>And your shoes are great. I love those Reiker lace ups. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019397 Fri, 12 Apr 2019 22:29:27 +0000 Carla 2019397@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm getting a 21st century George Sand vibe from your look, as well as a little Marlene Dietrich. Your trousers and shoe choice are masculine, but refined - while the sweaters are soft and simple, but don't disguise your womanly-ness. You obviously have the FOUNDATION of your Gentlewoman look in your closet, but you are currently skewing more minimalist (#11 very modern minimalist.). But, that isn't the look you want, right?</p> <p>What I don't see in your outfits (other than #8) is a bit of (fun) detail to pull everything together. #9 works as a classic column of colour, and #10 has a stylish kick and some shine from the hardware on the overalls. You can add more interest with colour, shine, texture, and pattern. Study those Pinterest inspo pictures and dissect them. What are the ACCESSORIES and how are they used. Can you tie a woman's silk scarf like a man's tie? What about a brocade vest? (Possibly thrifted.) Your bag could be like a doctor's bag or a schoolboy's briefcase, a menswear style watch, etc. No need to add more tops and bottoms, if you are satisfied with what you currently own. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-new-direction-for-spring-long#post-2019392 Fri, 12 Apr 2019 21:46:47 +0000 Liesbeth 2019392@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I’ve been struggling with this post, as I wanted to elaborate on the new direction my style journey is taking. Then I looked at my outfit pics and felt satisfied, but not delighted. I like these outfits, but are they really fab?</p> <p>I was consciously building towards the style moniker of the gentlewoman rebel. I can spin lots of words around this but mainly it builds on the ‘new garconne’, Parisian chic esthetic that’s been overtaking pinterest (or maybe just mine) and the high street (maybe just in Antwerp) over the past years. I added rebel because I’m at once drawn to and feeling rebellious against the modest, understated and minimal outfits that now seem to be the uniform of a certain group of thirtysomething cityfolk I only half identify with.</p> <p>So yes, I’m very inspired to build outfits around my new fitted trousers (the uniqlo ezy ankle pants), pairing them with flats for the ultimate gentlewoman or forties tomboy vibe. But I’ve also noticed that the outfits I’m most happy about, include at least one bolder element: an actual color, some contrast, a statement print.</p> <p>That brings me to two painpoints of where I am now with my wardrobe:<br /> - I added so many neutrals over the last years and only a little color &amp; pattern. And not even all my neutrals work together.<br /> - I am generally bad with color, wanting maximum mix and match potential but lacking the artist’s eye to visualize combinations while shopping or to just know what will work.</p> <p>And I don’t even know any more if I want to add many more items to the capsule of fitted trousers, blouses and shirt dresses right now. I may need to wear my existing combinations for a while, add a topper or two, and then go on to explore other silhouettes or even themes. Perhaps mini capsules.</p> <p>Anyway, let’s head on to the actual outfits and hear you opinion. How can I improve these? Do they convey at all the things I’m looking for, the tension between the masculine and feminine, between formal and relaxed?</p> <p>1) posted before in post about ezy pant: favorite wear with blouse.<br /> 2) full length with tucked in sweater, I like this silhouette too<br /> 3 and 4) with drapey tee, not crazy about the longer blazer here (too eighties together?)<br /> 5 6) classic shirt dress, do sort of regret choosing this faded black color though &amp; is the silk scarf too much like a flight attendant’s?<br /> 7 &amp; 9) trousers with fine knit sweater, probably best on off days when I just want to feel polished &amp; comfortable<br /> 8) love my new leopard print scarf for a hint of fashionista!<br /> 10) wearing overalls in the most subtle way I could think of<br /> 11) drapey top with cigarette pants, you can’t see the batwing and the button closure in the back - still with these details I find it lacking interest in every outfit I try it with... </p>