https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 05 May 2026 05:50:53 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-817064 Sun, 13 Jan 2013 12:18:09 +0000 ManidipaM 817064@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>LOL @ Una and Angie playing Sergeant Mary Poppins and Michael Banks together!</p> <p>@ Mo --- I am floored by your planning, organization and discipline. It's like watching Robin Hood at target practise! :-o</p> <p>@ Fern --- both those sweaters looking perfect for the job you have in mind! Tough choice, Princess!</p> <p>For myself, this promises to be the Year of the Expensive, Ever-growing Baby Gear as well as the Year of the Fluctuating Physical Form! For those reasons, despite only recently (last year) having come out of SYC and stepped into SYB, despite having a long way ahead to wardrobe and style renewal, I'm going to be extra-cautious with purchases this year and buy fewer things. Hence the appeal of 12 x 12.</p> <p>Another reason: My ongoing struggle with sale/budget shopping (what Gaylene said, but also that I will often gravitate to the cheapest of several choices simply *because* it is cheapest and not because it works the best). I realized last year that I am so accustomed to tightening the belt on my budget that I find it really hard to give myself permission to shop in a way where budget is *not* first priority, suitability is. Also, I had gotten so accustomed to being unsure of/lacking confidence in my style and shopping skills that I felt I had to hedge my bets against expensive mistakes. With 12 x 12 rather than a straight SYB (I used a monthly budget format last year), I hope to push myself to finding the *right* item, with price as only secondary consideration.</p> <p>With that backstory plus the caveats that my 12 x 12 is not necessarily going to be a per-month purchase and may include replacing basics like undies, socks and cheap summer/layering T-shirts, here's what I have so far on my tentative list:<br /> -- slip-on oxfords ::waving to Una!::<br /> -- waterproof (like seriously deluge- and puddle-friendly) boots<br /> -- lightweight denim or chambray shirt to double up as a summer topper<br /> -- (nursing-friendly) quick-dry wrap dress<br /> -- lightweight grey or black (or MAYbe red or dark teal) cardigan for transitional seasons, air-conditioned spaces &amp; travel<br /> -- warm cardigan, preferably one on the longer side, belted or cascading (for years, I have just had ONE cardigan and NO sweaters that actually fit or work well: unbelievable! TOO much dominant-season shopping at the expense of winter...)<br /> -- thermal tops and lined tights/leggings in grey or black (being cold is getting old with each passing winter...)<br /> -- cross-body leather bag/satchel in tan/camel OR a rainproof pleather travelling tote in a bright colour (yellow, green, cobalt blue) </p> <p>I might still get some of these on sale or otherwise at a 'discounted' price. But I'll also look to avoid full-price phobia and treating 20-odd dollars as some sort of universal cut-off, irrespective of the item (yes, I've done that in the past!).</p> <p>If I can't find a satisfactory option for some (being Picky) or another longtime want turns up in an attractive avatar at a good price, I might substitute. Only the warm garments are severe NEEDs at this point. The rest... I can make do, even if not very stylishly or satisfactorily. (Must remember the Patience part of Angie's PPP.) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816692 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 22:28:36 +0000 catgirl 816692@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well I played Michael Banks, Mary Poppins naughty charge, in the play so it all makes sense! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816563 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 20:26:38 +0000 MsMary 816563@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Exactly!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816560 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 20:24:34 +0000 Angie 816560@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Mary Poppins Sergeant Major Cox. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816557 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 20:23:04 +0000 MsMary 816557@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Angie, in another life you could have given Mary Poppins a run for her money! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816553 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 20:22:06 +0000 Angie 816553@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm glad your framework works for you, Malina. That is what it's all about - along as you also have fun along the way :)</p> <p>Okay, Una. You need to curb some of your fun! I get that too. As I said, I like wardrobe discipline and I'm glad you are acquiring some. In fact I like discipline full stop. I would have been a good candidate for the army if you minus the athletic part. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816538 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 20:12:53 +0000 Isabel 816538@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>MaryK , hahaaaa, I JUST edited to add that ! Yes I am going to budget for re-sizing too. I am going to have my wedding band re-sized and a couple of much loved rings that I have gotten over a few mother's days. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816537 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 20:11:01 +0000 MsMary 816537@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Isabel, you can get your rings re-sized, you know! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816534 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 20:10:00 +0000 Isabel 816534@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>MaryK, that is really a fantastic example regarding the Ts. </p> <p>I have to say that I work a lot like MaryK . I also have a set budget for the year and break it down by a monthly average. If it doesn't get spent, it rolls into next month. If I spend 3 times what the average monthly allowance is, then I don't buy for 3 months or cut back back a certain percentage across each budget item ( except my husband's lunch money, haha ). But no kidding, we will cut back on electricity useage, driving, whatever....</p> <p>I want to pull off a really nice, cool ring this year. My weight gain didn't just affect my clothes, it affected my wonderful ring collection. Actually, it affected my chubby little fingers ! So I need to size some rings and buy a couple ( yes, I said NEED ). Last year I really had to concentrate on clothes. But this year I want a nice big chunky ring !!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816504 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 19:25:11 +0000 MsMary 816504@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>BTW, I'm coming back to say that 12 x 12 is already working for me! I was at J Crew last night with CocoLion and they had these super cute striped tops on sale for less than $20, final sale. They were cute and I'm sucker for a striped top, and they fit and looked perfectly fine on me. I would have bought at least one, and probably two, had I not decided they were absolutely not fab enough to waste my January 12 x 12 slot on!</p> <p>I consider that a big win. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816498 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 19:18:50 +0000 Gaylene 816498@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The 12 items/year that I did a a while back was more or less the same as MaryK's with the only difference being I didn't set a hard and fast budget. My reason for doing 12x12 was to force myself to make good decisions instead of being lured in by sales or a clever marketing strategy (hello, the wall of rainbow coloured T-shirts!). It actually worked out that I spent less because the cashmere sweater was more than balanced by the flea-market, man's watch.</p> <p>Having a list intrigues me, but I don't know if I could ever be that systematic about wardrobe "needs", except for the most basic of items--for example, a pair of boots to wear in the snow. My wardrobe "wants" seem to be an ever-changing target. I'm totally the type of buyer who buys on impulse if I fall in love when I put something on my body. It's gaining control over my impulses that motivates me to a 12x12. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816486 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 19:07:52 +0000 christieanne 816486@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't think a shopping plan that is so disciplined would work for me but I am attempting to plan a bit better and understand my style/closet needs (balanced with just plain old desire).<br /> My list right now:</p> <p>Wool coat. Two months too late as we have just had a cold snap but I think I can still find a dark grey pea coat and maybe get a bargain. Or red. If not, I have a black and navy that are working for now. </p> <p>Emerald green bag. Last year I was all over cobalt and never found the right one. This year I want green (I have a large green tote though) or teal. </p> <p>Booties. Taupe or grey. Low heel. Not suede. </p> <p>New black Delman flats. </p> <p>Ponte or similar blazer - blue/cobalt or navy. Or red. Or both. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816476 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 18:56:28 +0000 MsMary 816476@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm doing kind of a combination of 12 x 12/SYC/SYB. I have set my budget for the year (expressed as a monthly amount), and have also decided to limit my purchases to one per month. BUT any money not spent in a month rolls over to the next month, and if I don't buy an item in any given month, then that item rolls over. My best-case scenario is that I get to Manhattan in September with a boatload of money and permission from myself to buy 9 items!!</p> <p>That said, I don't really have a list, other than the perfect cognac or tan leather jacket that's been on my list for more than a year. And an awesome cognac or tan bag. Other than that, my wardrobe is pretty complete so I am taking a wait and see attitude. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816462 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 18:40:41 +0000 amiable 816462@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm not doing 12x12, but I do have a mental list of investment pieces to watch for:</p> <p>boots (want a pair of brown, and one of black, and maybe a congnac too -- all tall)<br /> moto jacket<br /> long-ish leather jacket</p> <p>I'm watching a moto on ebay that I like - can't decide whether to bite or not. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816428 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 18:15:28 +0000 Kari 816428@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh, thanks! That makes sense. Thank you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816426 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 18:14:45 +0000 rae 816426@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm not planning 12x12, but mostly because I haven't thought of 12 things I need. I had closed toe summer shoes on the list, as well as a fun midi, but I'm putting the midi at least on hold since I am still dealing with the work situation. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816419 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 18:11:35 +0000 catgirl 816419@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Angie, I have WAY too much fun shopping the way you do, but lack the self-control. So I figure this is a good way to balance those factors. I do not, like Mo, have an item per month list. though - she is definitely the most organized so far!</p> <p>So glad to see how many are chiming in with a list or a similar goal! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list/page/2#post-816381 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 17:55:27 +0000 Anonymous 816381@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kari, not Una, but 12x12 is a shopping plan of one item a month, for 12 months. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816362 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 17:38:58 +0000 Kari 816362@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Una, I've been sparse around here lately and must have missed this. What's 12x12? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816361 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 17:37:59 +0000 Anonymous 816361@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>@MNSara: I am so flattered you consider me a muse, wow, that's the best compliment ever. You just made my day.... and hahaha, pleaseeee, you do not need my approval lol, you are a stylish creature on your own. Please feel free to borrow away. I did see your comment on Angie's UWP thread. Thank you!</p> <p>I am loving everyone's lists. Mo wins most organized shopper EVER! Girl, you could rule the world:) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816356 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 17:33:02 +0000 milehighstyle (Linda) 816356@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Not exactly 12 x 12, more when I find them and can afford, I will buy, but the items I'm hunting are:<br /> cropped leather moto jacket<br /> long sleeved non sweater dress<br /> slim fit pants (order from LOFT on the way - may be able to check this off)<br /> hiking sneaker/boots<br /> leather a line skirt<br /> high/low hemline sweater<br /> I figure I'll add to this seasonally - right now I feel that my summer wardrobe is not needing anything but when it actually gets here I may feel differently. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816351 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 17:18:13 +0000 TraceyLiz65 816351@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I envy the organization of those of you who can plan this so far in advance. Perhaps once I get to my goal and really purge and evaluate my wardrobe I can become this organized. </p> <p>On the other hand, not sure I want that kind of restriction. My husband would probably laugh and tell me it was impossible for me. I will say that I am not buying anything else until spring and I see what I need and want. Unless of course my husband does win us that Caribbean trip, will know in about 3 weeks.. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816330 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 16:52:54 +0000 Mo 816330@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Angie, I might not buy month by month as planned. Like, I have the jacket already in December and maybe won't get the BF jeans until March. But it's a framework for me to work with </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816313 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 16:28:51 +0000 Isabel 816313@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>WAIT ! I have to have a list to participate? LOL. I bought almost an entire new wardrobe over the last 16 months because I "outgrew" mine. I also bought shoes and boots that were more comfortable and modern ( I outgrew some shoes and boots figuratively, whereas I outgrew clothing VERY literally, LOL ). I am still working all this to determine if there are any holes. Though this has been a weird Winter to figure that out, it has been so warm I don't know if I will ever need warmer clothing again...plus the fact that my meds give me UBER hot flashes. </p> <p>But, here is what I am considering :</p> <p>A Boden, menswear stripe cotton trench. I feel as if I have been waiting for this my entire life. All this talk lately of how to describe oneself and what you love to wear made me realize that I really like menswear inspired pieces. I also don't have a cotton trench for Spring/Early Summer. I have raincoats ( trenches ), but not a topper. I am also going to buy it immediately so that I don't miss my size. </p> <p>I did notice that on chillier days, my cotton camis/tanks don't do it for me. I rarely wear sweaters because I get so hot inside sometimes, but a cotton cami doesn't offer me much warmth under a button down or popover...which I wore a lot. So I am going to try these super lightweight, merino wool Ts and camis. ( Smart Wool makes them too and they all get rave reviews.). Sometimes, I just want to wear a t shirt or a t shirt and vest, but then I freeze without a sweater but swelter with one.......I am hoping that this is the "cure". </p> <p>Great thread !!! Thanks Una.</p> <p>( I will be back later to read everyone else's and their strategies....yes, this was not my whole post...mwahahahaaa..) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816296 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 16:14:18 +0000 Mochi 816296@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The 12 x 12 thing does not relate to me personally for now, but just chiming in to say your list so far reads so exciting and spot-on! Sorry about the Holmbys not working (you and me both). Shall we both keep an eye out for each other? I'm still interested in finding that perfect item myself! It was like a little (deceptive) taste of perfection for a moment. But it is out there. Also I'm always up for a challenge (ask Diana--I was temporarily obsessed with finding her elusive boots with gold zippers)...maybe I can help out with the RATE stripes. For me it's fun. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816288 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 16:02:06 +0000 Angie 816288@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is SO interesting! I'm happy that the 12x12 thing is turning out to be a fun shopping strategy for some, and I look forward to following the progress throughout the year. Good luck everyone! </p> <p>Personally, this would be a very un-fun shopping strategy for me. To feel boxed into buying an item each month would make me unhappy, although I like to plan things. I would much rather shop my budget - and I can skip a month of not buying anything at all quite easily. The spontaneity and emotion that accompanies my purchases is very much part of the fun I have with style each season, although I am a firm believer in wardrobe discipline. I hope that makes sense too. </p> <p>We all set different boundaries </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816270 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 15:49:27 +0000 MNsara 816270@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm SO inspired by everyone's 12 x 12 ideas, and with ALL the buying, returning, keeping, spending, it's a great place to go and settle things down, I think. So, I'm mulling over my own version of a 12 x 12.</p> <p>I don't want to give up snagging that fun, marked down surprise I run across unexpectedly. So, I'm working on 12 x 12 *nice* items, and a separate 12 x 12 *fun* items.</p> <p>I don't think I could ever be as organized as Mo (maybe I could at work, but never in real life ;-), so I've only got one goal so far: A great classic black or camel winter coat.</p> <p>Zap -- I think you're supposed to be my style muse So, if it's okay, I'm borrowing your list for consideration, and I may have to run my list by you for your Sleek Urban Princess approval! (Although I'm still wondering if I should be a Sleek Urban *Prince*, but that's another whole area to think thru </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816219 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 14:20:07 +0000 Karie 816219@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm with you, Jenava, I'm late to the 12x12 party too and didn't really know what it was. Sounds like a great idea for someone like me who is trying to fine tune their style persona and keep the clothing spending under control. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816195 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 12:34:57 +0000 Anonymous 816195@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I had read the other notes about 12/12 but seeing your lists really puts it into perspective.The control freak in me loves Mo's printed one with budget.</p> <p>I think I might try this tonight when eeveryone is in bed. It may make my style a little clearer too</p> <p>Great post Una </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/calling-12-x-12ers-whats-on-your-list#post-816192 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 12:12:41 +0000 Anonymous 816192@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't have a 12x12 ( Jenava I think it stands for 12 items a year) but here is my current list:</p> <p>Phillip Lim satchel in army green<br /> Second down coat alternative - I only have one down coat, I'm working on this one.<br /> Wool coat that goes well with cognac. I think I got this one.<br /> Equipment Polka Dot Sweater in black with white polka dots. Currently stalking<br /> Midi skirt that is not a jersey fabrication<br /> The perfect tweed blazer<br /> Cognac satchel (must have a crossbody strap).<br /> Black or charcoal tapered trousers that are not cropped. I tailored a couple of pants myself to try the look. Must finish hemming.<br /> A couple of summer dresses and cotton cardis to replace summer stock<br /> The perfect black pointy toe shoes. </p>