https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:06:33 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1545042 Tue, 25 Aug 2015 02:41:53 +0000 Beth Ann 1545042@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You are making ebay work beautifully for you!&nbsp; It's a great idea to shop in batches, too.&nbsp; You're more likely to think "wardrobe function"&nbsp; rather than "pretty top!"&nbsp; You also likely spend far less time shopping! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1544893 Mon, 24 Aug 2015 22:52:26 +0000 E 1544893@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>RachyLou, it's very relaxing! By the end of a fortnight of powershopping, I'm relieved to not have to worry for another six months. Lol I was surprised by how tiresome I found the shopping after a few days on this go-round, considering I've always enjoyed the hunt before. </p> <p>Thank you Joy! I'm definitely considering secondhand fabric options, although the lack of thrift stores w easy bus access (which seems ironic) will limit that for me. I'm working on learning how to alter pieces though!</p> <p>The sales aspect would be tricky; since I'm shopping secondhand and/or for supplies in the case of knitting and sewing, the retail sales cycle doesn't apply. But I think your idea of stalking just the items you know you want could work well! In my case I'd probably still end up browsing the site; my shopping self control is not good with grey areas for some reason. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1544302 Sun, 23 Aug 2015 21:04:07 +0000 Anonymous 1544302@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I saved this thread for when I could really enjoy it without distractions and was so inspired. My thrifty aunt uses thrifting trips to find garments with fabric that she likes and reuses to make her own clothing. She also reuses some for quilted and felted wool items.<br /> I also want to try to shop twice a year and think I may be able to do it, although I may identify items to follow until they go on sale, then purchase. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1544259 Sun, 23 Aug 2015 18:59:21 +0000 rachylou 1544259@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I too am inspired by the success of your twice a year shopping plan... I miss doing things that way. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1544248 Sun, 23 Aug 2015 18:43:28 +0000 E 1544248@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Laura, I think summer is everyone's least favourite fashion season! Except for my mother, who'd be happy to live her whole life in sleeveless tops and sandals. Funny how different our Ebay experiences are; I always find more stuff than my budget will allow for. lol</p> <p>Thank you Sterling! I'm so glad you liked it &amp; found it inspiring. May I suggest the book Women's Work: the First 10,000 Years if you'd like to read a very accessible history of textiles? It's written for a popular audience &amp; great fun. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543907 Sun, 23 Aug 2015 02:05:19 +0000 Anonymous 1543907@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is an absolutely amazing post. &nbsp;I loved reading every bit of it. &nbsp;There was so much inspiration for me in terms of how I would like to live my life. &nbsp;I want very much to be more&nbsp;environmentally &amp; ethically conscious in my purchases. &nbsp;I think along these lines, but don't act on them a much as I would like. &nbsp;You inspired me to try harder. &nbsp;</p> <p>I also loved your idea of shopping twice a year and spending the rest of the year&nbsp;planning/shopping, learning more about textiles &amp; fashion history, finding inspiration for new combinations of old pieces for the other 48 weeks. &nbsp;It never even occurred to me that this was a possibility in life. &nbsp;Now I am seriously considering it as an option.&nbsp;</p> <p>I was fascinated by the bulleted list. &nbsp;So much information condensed down. &nbsp;I have a lot to think about. &nbsp;(And I haven't yet read other posts). &nbsp;Thank you so much for the interesting read. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543847 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 23:42:06 +0000 Laura (rhubarbgirl) 1543847@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I always enjoy reading your analyses, and I'm happy that your twice yearly shopping intervals are working well for you. I'm really impressed that you've been able to find so many great items on ebay, especially in that concentrated of a time period. I've found a few things on ebay, but the good items seem to be few and far between. </p> <p>Re the temperature ranges, I just looked mine up, and there are four months with highs above 80 - which is the big change from where I used to live, which is not that far away but thanks to Bay Area microclimates doesn't have as long or as hot a summer. Four months of summer, three of winter, three of spring and only two of fall, depending on how you divide it up. Unfortunately, summer is my least favorite season to dress for! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543812 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 21:51:42 +0000 E 1543812@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks Jenn! Honestly, I think shopping secondhand makes it easier to find clothes that fit; when all of the shops only carried low rise trousers (terribly uncomfortable on me), I could find higher rise, older pieces. And almost all of my skirts are vintage, just because most contemporary full skirts are designed to sit lower than the natural waist &amp; are often too short for my tastes if I were to take in the waistband. I have a couple of vintage jackets &amp; coats &amp; dresses and *all* of them fit me better than any modern piece I’ve ever tried on; I think they used to use long waisted, long torso’ed fit models, whereas nowadays they mainly use short waisted ones. Anyway, I’m glad my large wardrobe didn’t seer your eyes too badly. ;D</p> <p>I’m glad I only have three months above 75 in my new climate! I spent a few years in Colorado, so I remember the more dramatic weather changes. And dryness. We get a lot of snow as well as rain, thanks to the lake effect dynamics. I do love snow!</p> <p>Hi Robin! Sure: the blouse is a darker purple, like a cool, muted plum shade and the silk content gives it a quiet luster. It has a round scoop neck of about medium depth, and elbow-length puffed sleeves. The sleeves are gathered with elastic on the inside, but that doesn’t show on the outside, so they have a kind of bubble hem I guess. The back &amp; side seams have a bit of curve to them for gentle waist definition. The front has buttons going down it, in a very similar shade of purple. About an inch below the neckline, there’s a tiny ruffle that serves as the casing for a drawstring ribbon made out of the same fabric as the blouse, that can be tied tighter or looser, in a knot or a bow, depending on the wearer’s preference. Finally, the front is covered in very small pintucks, left open over the bust, and then sewn down the rest of the way. It’s all of those frilly details, as well as the half-sleeve length and scooped necklines, that remind me of the 18th century. :)</p> <p>Honestly, shoe shopping is still a challenge for me, so I’m probably not too much help! I have a broad forefoot w a narrow heel &amp; a high arch, so several fitting issues. My feet are very fussy too, and I walk a lot. The Aurora Shoe Co is a go-to for me, but their shoes definitely tend towards the hippie/hobbit end of the spectrum! And sadly don’t come in grey. I like Timberland’s policies too, so I use them for oxfords &amp; boots. My other resources are Pikolinos and Rieker; both use nice leather that holds up well (which is of course more environmentally friendly) and describe their environmental/social policies on their websites, but it’s always tricky to know for sure. So I’m trying to get just enough shoes in each category that I can alternate between them &amp; prolong their life, and then take very good care of them &amp; wear them for years, to reduce my impact. I’ll probably get a pair of Pikolinos sandals for next summer.</p> <p>Word Lily, September and October were the worst in Texas! I was always so sad about the continuing heat when I wanted to be wearing fall pieces. Luckily I’m nowhere near NYC, so the summers here aren’t really bad (we have the occasional heat spell, but also the occasional cool one, there are lots of trees providing shade, and evenings usually get cool quickly), especially compared to the Midwest or Texas. But since all of the windows in my studio apartment are on one wall, I can’t get a cross breeze, and it takes awhile to cool down, which is no fun. Plus in my ideal world, summer (at least above 75) would only last two weeks. hehe I tell myself that a three month summer helps contribute to all of the gorgeous trees around me though!</p> <p>Thanks Smittie &amp; good luck with the secondhand shopping! I actually wore wide legged trousers this past winter before I wore them in the summer. I have a couple pairs of vintage wool ones; I just wear them over my snow boots (my third pair of wool trousers is tapered so I can tuck them, luckily). We get quite a bit of snow here (about 100” a year), but the sidewalks get packed &amp; even some of the park trails. And any freshly fallen snow, too new to be packed, is usually clean. So as long as my boots go up to mid calf, I can just brush any snow off my hems (or occasionally higher up!) when I get inside &amp; none of it touches me/starts to melt when I’m outdoors. They’re probably shorter than Angie’s PPL length over the boots (which have thick soles), but that does make them more practical. I do have to clamber over the occasional snow pile at the end of the block (don’t get me started on the injustice of this!); if it’s really bad I just pull up on the fabric around my thighs, like a nineteenth century woman curtseying, for the minute or so of clambering. lol I should mention both of these pairs are grey, one charcoal, one medium, and so not likely to be stained by dirty snow! The only time I didn’t wear them was during the spring thaw, because the slush was just a mess. But winter snow, when it’s still below freezing, doesn’t pose much of a threat.</p> <p>My monochrome looks right now tend to incorporate a neutral, but I’d love to do some head-to-toe versions (other than navy blue/lighter blue)! Blush &amp; rose would be a delicious combination…hmmm… Looking forward to seeing what you put together. :D</p> <p>Thank you Jenanded!</p> <p>Aww: thank you Helen! Having just moved from south Texas, in which my coat collection hiberated for four years, I understand your challenge. Hopefully you enjoy sun dresses as well as coats!</p> <p>Thank you Angie! :D</p> <p>Donnat, I always felt so proud when I came home empty handed from a thrifting adventure; the forum has definitely helped me become pickier!</p> <p>I’m glad you enjoyed it Alasse! I’ve been terribly at getting WIW snaps, although I know I showed the pink lace top in at least one post. But the poor purple one hasn’t been photographed, although I've wore it a lot (I brought it on my NYC &amp; DC trip). How crazy that your transitional seasons are so short! :O Climate is a funny thing. I think this is the first time I’ve lived in a true, equally distributed, four-season one…although college in the Midwest came close too. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543766 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 19:59:24 +0000 Alassë 1543766@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This was worth the wait! I can't wait to see more of some of these pieces. I particularly liked 2 &amp; 3 from photo 4. You really learned a lot and honed an excellent buying process!&nbsp;</p> <p>(I had to check my annual climate data too. We have 6 months of summer and 4 of winter. No wonder I feel shorted on fall &amp; spring!)</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543716 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 17:09:50 +0000 donnat 1543716@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi Eva, a very enjoyable read. I recognize some of my favorites in the photos. I too am an avid thrifter and have found some great pieces, although I am fussy and do sometimes come home empty handed. I am going to check my weather now. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543653 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 14:00:55 +0000 Angie 1543653@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>WOW. A novel of reflections. Good stuff. Focused with a happy heart and big smile. Rock on.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543617 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 13:19:12 +0000 Helen11 1543617@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you for writing up in so much detail! You've had such a disciplined approach to shopping, and it has worked so well for you. I have admired your hand knits previously, and now I'm loving your coats, especially the blue/grey tweed.<br /> So then I checked out my local annual weather chart.<br /> We average 152 days a year with temps over 30C / 86F.<br /> So I need to stop looking at coats!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543609 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 13:06:48 +0000 jenanded 1543609@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love all your pieces... and all the discussion. Thank you for your post, x </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543594 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 12:44:03 +0000 Anonymous 1543594@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I haven't read the other posts. I'll come back to read once I've posted.<br /> E, you've inspired me to do some second hand shopping. I think the second hand pieces give your wardrobe a lot of soul (as do the hand made ones).<br /> ETA: Removed question about hit rate when second hand shopping. I see you use eBay. Awesome! I can do that!</p> <p>Also, you say you want to use wide leg pants for 4 seasons. How will you manage that with the snow?</p> <p>The seashell top is not too bold at all. </p> <p>I too am loving monochrome looks. I think I just like the simplicity of them. Would love to do head to toe pink number but not sure if it's in the cards for winter </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543590 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 12:30:08 +0000 Word Lily 1543590@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The climate chart for here didn't surprise me, exactly, but I'm bummed that September is still one of those above 75° months for me. I'm eager to get back into layers.</p> <p>I've read several mentions of the horrid summers in NYC — how historically everyone of means vacated for at least a month — so it shouldn't surprise that the summers are bad. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543522 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 05:27:47 +0000 Robin 1543522@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>OH yes, very much enjoyed reading this. Thanks for taking the time to share.</p> <p>The purple blouse sounds lovely. Can you describe it mor?</p> <p>i'm also curious to know which shoe companies you shop. Transparency in manufacturing and business practices is important to me.Your reply </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543484 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 02:15:33 +0000 Jenn 1543484@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>So many good reflections. I &nbsp;admire your commitment to thrifting. I have such a hard time finding clothes that fit, I can't imagine adding more limited options to the equation. &nbsp;You know I'm a minimalist at heart, but your large wardrobe is quite well thought-out and the pieces are beautiful and functional for you.&nbsp;</p> <p>Like&nbsp;<b>WordLily,&nbsp;</b>I saw your climate chart and immediately looked at the equivalent for where I am. &nbsp;We also have four months above 75°, four below 50°, and four transition, with about half as much rain as you get and both higher highs and lower lows across every month. That means lots and lots of layering throughout most of the year. No wonder I have such a hard time during the month or two when layering isn't necessary!&nbsp;Your point about using prints to add interest when you can't layer is a great one! I will remember that when building out next year's summer capsule.</p> <p>It was really lovely to see all your new additions spread out and photographed. It seems like you're really enjoying them. I can't wait to see what you have in store for autumn! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543479 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 02:03:14 +0000 E 1543479@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Deb, thanks! I actually don’t have nearly as many physical stores to shop secondhand in, because when I moved I also switched from driving to relying on buses/walking. The good thrift stores here are in the suburbs, which are a nightmare to get to via the bus. So I’ve only gone the one time with some friends who have a car. Instead Ebay has become my main source, which is pricier, but also helps me be pickier.</p> <p>I’m glad you liked it Word Lily! I wasn’t sure if it was too specific to help anyone else. I once tried to unravel a thrifted sweater &amp; gave up in disgust when the yarn kept breaking/snarling. And the yarn was very very fine too. For now, I’m happy either sourcing secondhand on Ravelry or buying from companies like Quince, but when my stash runs down, I’ll definitely come to you for advice! Before you checked, did you think of your climate as winter or summer dominate or evenly divided? Seriously, the way people talk about winter up here, you’d think it lasted six to eight months. lol</p> <p>Suz, as I said to Deb, there are some good thrift stores, but none that give me regular access. So now I use Ebay. Ebay works better for twice yearly shopping anyway, since brick &amp; mortar thrifting requires regular trips to maximise serendipity. With Ebay, I pay more per piece, but allow the serendipity to come to me. Yay for blues &amp; purples! I wear blues year-round too, but I noticed in the height of summer I was reaching for blues way more than taupes/browns, whereas in the autumn the ratio tends to flip. Not a conscious thing though.</p> <p>Avettestingray, I used to be a dedicated thrifter in Texas, but now I’m using Ebay for my secondhand shopping. I think it could work really well for you: you can use the Ebay filters to select everything from fiber to colour to sleeve length to size or search for specific brands if you already know that you like (i.e. I have a lot of J Crew &amp; Banana Republic knitwear &amp; various Anthropologie brand blouses). And you can save searches, so once you’ve set all of the filters to your choices, you don’t have to re-do them each time. The key to virtual shopping is to get all of the measurements you can beforehand, but it’s still easier if you’re buying clothes similar to what you already own. Anyway, some sellers never reply to my messages asking for more detailed measurements/information, but most do &amp; those are the ones I buy from. There are sellers who accept returns, but of course then you’re out the cost of shipping. It’s also good if you know a little bit about white balance so that you can tell colours more easily, since some of the photos aren’t the best. ;)</p> <p>Anyway, thank you! It seems the older I get, the more comfortable I am embracing my preferences for 'pretty' pieces.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543466 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 01:37:31 +0000 Anonymous 1543466@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love how beautiful and well made all of your pieces are. I really wish I had the patience for thrifting as it really appeals to me, but I quickly get overwhelmed and frustrated. </p> <p>i am glad to see that you have been able to channel your shopping into set periods and use the rest of the time for education. I am trying really hard, but often, I struggle. I blow through budgets, piece guidelines, and all other preset constraints. </p> <p>Again, lovely clothes! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543453 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 01:11:45 +0000 Suz 1543453@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Terrific reflections, Eva, and as another who lives without air conditioning in a northing climate I know whereof you speak. It really is important to have a summer dedicated wardrobe. I also reach for a lot of blues in summer (well, all year, really, LOL) and I, too, am developing an increased appreciation for purple. ;)&nbsp;</p> <p>It sounds as if you did some good shopping and really enjoyed your new items.&nbsp;</p> <p>I am also curious about the thrifting options you've found in your new town. Are they good?&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543432 Sat, 22 Aug 2015 00:02:24 +0000 Word Lily 1543432@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Love this post! </p> <p>Re: inexpensive ethically sourced yarn: Have you heard of / tried your hand at unraveling thrift-store sweaters to get the yarn you need? If you’re interested, I can tell you lots more about it.</p> <p>I’m glad your balance of shopping and not-shopping times is working for you, and that your wardrobe is mostly in a good place for you.</p> <p>Your comment about summer made me check my local climate: Four months above 75° here, too. (And four below 50°.)</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543422 Fri, 21 Aug 2015 23:39:20 +0000 deb 1543422@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>That is quite a&nbsp;transitions to make. Your analytical skills will help you in the future as you have specific requirements of your wardrobe.&nbsp;Do you now have more places to shop for second hand clothing? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/an-overview-evaluation-of-my-springsummer-refreshers#post-1543419 Fri, 21 Aug 2015 23:21:34 +0000 E 1543419@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Now that September is almost upon us, I thought it'd be good to take a step back &amp; evaluate my spring/summer wardrobe additions. I'm sure this will be text heavy &amp; I've included photos of the various pieces, so that's your warning. If you're just interested in big picture reflections, rather than the details, jump down to the last paragraph, where I've used bullet points. I should also warn the minimalists that I added 27 pieces to my closet for those two seasons (that works out to around 15% of my total closet), so prepare yourself. hehe I'm a minimalist in most areas of my life, but clothing is an exception. For a variety of reasons, I love having an extensive wardrobe, as long as it all fits comfortably in the available storage space, which it does.</p> <p>My general philosophy: I strive to be environmentally &amp; ethically conscious in my purchases, so I buy almost all of my clothing secondhand (the major exception is shoes, which I only buy from companies w transparent manufacturing policies). I'm also on a budget but love nice fabrics and pieces, so buying secondhand helps in that too. I tend to yo-yo about my love for style/dressing vs my dislike for consumerism, so this year I tried doing an experiment in which I only shop twice, for about a fortnight each time, focusing on Ebay as a source: once in the spring, spending half my budget on spring/summer pieces, and once in the fall for fall/winter. I had hoped this would let me enjoy planning/shopping twice a year but keep me focused on other aspects of style (aka hugging my closet/learning more about textiles &amp; fashion history/finding inspiration for new combinations of old pieces/chatting about clothes here on the forum/etc.) for the other 48 weeks. I'm pleased to report that this has definitely worked! It's let me enjoy reading about style year-round without an everlasting case of the wantsies. Note that not all of these pieces came from my March shopping; about half were from a Goodwill spree I went on during my trip home for Christmas last December and two pieces came from an in-person thrifting expedition with friends in May, which somehow saw me forgetting all about home goods to try on clothes instead. ;)</p> <p>I moved last September, from south Texas to upstate NY, so I was still getting used to my new climate. Just last week I had a ridiculously obvious realisation: a four-season climate means that there is in fact three months of summer. Everyone talks so much about winter here, that I'd somehow overlooked that. Since I don't have air conditioning right now, it's a good thing I hadn't downsized my Texan pieces yet! I've attached a photo of my city's climate chart; as you can see, we have about three months of subfreezing weather, three months of over-75/24 weather (which I consider hot for dressing purposes, since I run warm &amp; prefer the cold; having spent several years in south Texas I'm well aware of how much hotter things can get, lol), and six months in between. I plan to undertake a closet evaluation soon to see how closely my clothes adhere to these ratios, mainly out of curiousity's sake.</p> <p>Anyway, for this spring/summer, I knew I wanted to start playing with some lightweight wide-legged trousers, so for summer especially I needed some lightweight, waist-defining blouses to go with them. I ended up adding five of these to my closet: two solids and three prints. Most of them have a waist a bit higher than my own, which makes them less than ideally flattering, but still provided enough to work with. I also added two of my usual summer waist-surrendering blouses in colours I didn't have yet, because I couldn't resist. </p> <p>The problem child from this set is that light blue one: not only does the shape only work with narrower trousers, but the colour is not the best for me. I knew all of this when I looked at it on Ebay, but I fell in love with it as an object and ignored my better judgement. It hasn't gotten many wearings, so hopefully next year I'll be stronger. A tea bath did fix the colour a bit at least. My favourites/most wears turned out to be the seashell navy blouse, whose waist tie actually hits at my own waist (this was my first time adding a conversation print to my closet; I think the neutral colours kept the whimsy within manageable levels), the muted French blue ruffle piece, and the grey &amp; white pinstripe little blouse I forgot to photograph (it too had a sash waist instead of just elastic). I expect to wear the brown floral one more during the 'Indian summer.' Next year, I'll be much fussier about making sure the waist definition on the tops lines up with my actual waist, as if it hits at my rib cage I end up looking quite boxy.</p> <p>My spring tops, by contrast, were ordered with the expectation that I'd be wearing them either tucked into full skirts or over skinnies, so they included two knitwear pieces: a fine (rayon blend) grey/white striped tee and blush lace tee as well as a purple blouse with eighteenth century-esque detailing. No problem children/lessons here! The striped tee got worn the most, but they all got love &amp; I can't wait to continue wearing them when the weather cools off a bit. The purple one, which is a silk/cotton blend, got to come out during the summer as well. For me, knit tops are a staple of transitional weather.</p> <p>For spring, I added to my outerwear collection: a lined grey trench which proved terribly useful &amp; a blue/grey tweed in a lightweight wool that I originally thought I'd be saving until fall but got to wear quite a bit in early April (it snowed on Easter), which was a pleasant surprise. I also got a Nordstrom wool/cashmere pashmina-style scarf in a soft white; I have a grey one of these that I received as the bridesmaid gift from my sister's wedding &amp; used it so much this past winter that I thought duplicating would be a good idea. It was &amp; I've worn the scarf a ton! All of these were winners; I love living in a climate that justifies a variety of coats. hehe</p> <p>My lighter weight spring/summer toppers include a waist-defining 100% linen wrap jacket, which I mainly bought to wear with my sleeveless summer fit &amp; flare dresses (I prefer to wear sleeves when it's sunny outside for the extra skin protection but go sleeveless indoors for comfort), the top of a lightweight, unlined linen/wool Theory suit I came across in that Goodwill expedition, and a soft white cardigan. The latter is a HEWI for me &amp; definitely has gotten the most wear of the three! The grey jacket comes in second; I think I might need to nip in the waist of the Theory blazer a bit more to wear with skirts &amp; dresses, but I did pull it out for a few trouser &amp; shorts looks. I just added a purple cotton sweater (when I made my&nbsp;autumn shopping order, placed when LikeTwice had a great end-of-business sale) that's gotten several outings already.</p> <p>Speaking of trousers, all three of these are from the same Goodwill trip! Two pairs of wide legged ones: teal &amp; grey and the bottoms to the Theory suit, which are a kind of slouchy tapered fit I suppose. The grey ones saw quite a bit of wear in the spring but are too warm for summer (they're a lined tropical wool) while the teal ones were a surprise hit; I wasn't sure when I got them if I'd ever wear them but it turns out I love them! I'm completely converted to wide legged trousers for year-round wear, although I do need to be a bit fussier about hem lengths (luckily it's pretty easy to shorten legs, even by hand). And of course I still need my narrower options for the rainy days. Once again, no inherent problem children here. I'm still learning about the best fit for wider trousers though, thanks to Angie &amp; the forum. Fit has always been my major dressing weakness &amp; I worry I might have unintentionally lost a bit of weight that's exacerbating these issues.</p> <p>On to skirts/dresses. Only the white skirt is from online ordering (and actually came from my autumn shopping order, placed when LikeTwice had a great end-of-business sale) &amp; while I love it in theory, in practice the white is just a bit too bright for me, which makes it a problem child. Also, I feel like white swiss dot is best suited for high summer, but in weather above 75/24, I don't usually wear skirts, because the fitted waistband makes me cranky in the heat. I knew this was an experiment when I ordered it, so it might end up being passed along next year. I'll give it a full spring/summer season before I decide for sure though. The red skirt comes from my real-life thrifting; I couldn't resist how it was almost scarlet but somehow still muted enough to not overwhelm me! It hasn't gotten a ton of wear yet, but I expect that will change come autumn. It looks more like an autumn/winter colour to me. </p> <p>The blush cotton dress is a vintage piece I found during my Christmas Goodwill expedition; it's gotten a lot of wear. Once I realised that I had three months of summer, in which I prefer dresses to skirts (that waistband issue), I took a good look at my dresses: only four are completely cotton (and none are linen, sadly). The other two cotton pieces are lined with acetate, which is fine for transitional weather, but not for heat. Considering I have twelve weeks of summer, and wear dresses at least twice a week, often three-four times, I think this is one of the few sections of my closet that could really do with some expanding (the others I expand anyway, because I love having colour &amp; texture &amp; fiber variety, but they're functional as is). Especially since the hot weather means clothes need to be washed more frequently.</p> <p>Not pictured, but I only made one shoe addition: a pair of medium brown oxfords that haven't gotten a lot of wear in the heat of summer but were very handy in the spring &amp; on cooler summer days. I thought about getting a pair of sandals but ultimately didn't, because I kept thinking summer would be a short season &amp; they wouldn't get enough wear. Luckily my Aurora Shoe Co flats are very comfy even without socks &amp; my feet run cold, so I'm fine in closed-toed shoes until it gets above 90/32.</p> <p>Finally, we have the handmade additions to my closet: a wool knit jacket, a linen/cotton sewn skirt, and a cropped, waist-defining linen knit cardigan. All of these have become favourite pieces &amp; made me realise just how wonderful it is to wear pieces customised for my body &amp; taste. I have the knitting skills to manage this, but I'm new to sewing, so I'm still in the learning stage there. Of course, making clothes is far more expensive than thrifting them, especially if you have ethical constraints in your retail shopping. And the environmental considerations are different. However, I think it's worth it. So for next year (I've already done my fall/winter shopping), I plan to draw up a list of pieces I want, see which ones I can get via Ebay during that shopping fortnight, and then plan to make the rest. This means I'll probably need to move my shopping schedule up. Luckily I enjoy wearing the same shapes in different fabrics, so once I master a pattern, I should be able to use it over and over again. Top of my list for next spring/summer is to find a waist-defining blouse pattern, since it appears all of the purveyors of girly blouses (looking especially at Anthropologie here) mainly design for shorter waisted women. Or just learn how to make a smocked elastic waist I suppose! I'm currently in the midst of making my first fit &amp; flare dress, in a grey linen, and have a fine grey wool flannel standing by for the fall/winter version.</p> <p>Whew! I know I enjoy meta posts, so I hope you enjoyed that level of detail too. In summary, here are my reflections: </p> <ul> <li>Even in a northern climate, it's worth it to have a solid hot weather wardrobe, especially when you live without air conditioning.&nbsp;</li> <li>A few more fit &amp; flare dresses, in linen or lightweight cotton or cotton/silk blends, would not go amiss.</li> <li>Next year a new pair of sandals, in a light shade, have a shoe-shopping priority.&nbsp;</li> <li>Waistband placement matters; even if the blouse is full of charming details, they won't make up for an unflattering fit and will skew the proportions with wide legged bottoms.&nbsp;</li> <li>Long sleeved knit tops get a lot of use in transitional seasons.</li> <li>Trust my gut when online browsing; I had qualms about the light blue blouse but immediately fell in love with the seashell one. Guess which one got more wear? Even the teal trousers; I wasn't sure how easy they'd be to work into outfits, but I was sure that I loved them &amp; loved how they looked on me (I bought them in person). My gut is fairly well honed at this point &amp; a useful tool. Except for when it comes to fit. My gut doesn't care at all about fit. lol</li> <li>Speaking of which, I am smaller than I think I am. My fit problems always involve things being too big for me. Try to keep that in mind (ebay is, counterintuitively, better for this, because I can get actual measurements and compare them to actual forum-approved garments I already own, instead of trying to decide for myself by looking in the mirror).</li> <li>I'm excited to finally have built up a tiny purple collection; I've loved purple from afar for years but rarely managed to find the shades that actually flattered me.</li> <li>100% silk is great for transitional weather but in actual hot weather (75/24+ for me), silk/cotton blends or cotton voiles are nicer.&nbsp;</li> <li>Summer-specific skirts are not a good idea; focus on dresses instead for those fabrics.&nbsp;</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Prints are perfect for adding interest during weather that precludes layering.&nbsp;</li> <li>I reach for a lot of blue in the summer.&nbsp;</li> <li>Lightweight, wide-legged linen trousers are very comfy, even in humid heat &amp; a nice alternative to shorts, since they are far more elegant.</li> <li>I've gotten really into monochrome colour combinations lately, wearing a lighter &amp; darker version of the same colour, usually with a neutral thrown in too.</li> </ul> <p>Next year I doubt I'll be adding a new silhouette to my spring/summer line up, and I won't be adjusting to a new climate, so I'll probably add fewer pieces. Plus, my closets &amp; drawers are now as full as I want them, so I'll be starting a one in/one out policy (with an exception for dresses) that I'm sure will cut down on new additions dramatically. Of course, my budget &amp; (hopefully) transitioning from mainly secondhand shopping to making more pieces will naturally do that as well. While I can see tweaking my clothes a bit next year for fit issues, I think I'm at an ideal place as far as variety, etc for me. So I consider the past shopping venture a success, even if there are a couple pieces that taught me more about what I *don't* wear than about what I do.</p>