https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:09:25 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not/page/2#post-2120369 Wed, 13 May 2020 19:58:02 +0000 LaPed 2120369@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is such an interesting question. I don't anticipate any major changes to my style, beyond my ongoing hair grow-out. If anything, I think I'm moving toward greater simplicity, fewer pieces, less fuss. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not/page/2#post-2120297 Wed, 13 May 2020 15:47:44 +0000 Anonymous 2120297@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm finding this discussion endlessly fascinating and really enjoy reading about everyones' experiences/thoughts. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120292 Wed, 13 May 2020 15:22:36 +0000 nemosmom 2120292@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p> <div>Such a great question, Carla!&nbsp; I haven't given much thought to post-covid fashion, but I can say that I felt a LOT more motivated to wear normal clothes when I <u>had</u> to leave the house each day.&nbsp; Now, I am homeschooling both kids, and my work hours vary anywhere from 3am to 11pm. DH is out of work, so that just compounds all stresses. I am fortunate enough to have groceries delivered, (which is great, because going to the store gives me great anxiety) but now I have no excuse to leave home.</p> <p>I am finding emotional comfort in comfortable clothes - I need to be warm. I need to be comfortable sitting for long stretches. I need to be able to roll out of bed and look semi-presentable. I need to some form of pants that I can wear OITW, should I get a chance to walk around the neighborhood to escape my very loud, very extroverted family.... I have fallen into somewhat of a rut of rotating between the same two pairs of joggers and fleece pullover.&nbsp; I am sooo sick of wearing them, but I just can't find the motivation to put on anything else... I do shower every day, so I've got that going for me... </p> <p></div><div><br /></div><div>I have been paying more attention to skincare, especially since I'm on more video calls than before. I keep my nails shorter than before, and I rarely have time to tidy them up. I miss wearing my rings, but with all the handwashing, it just isn't practical.&nbsp; My hair has grown out to the point it is starting to feel heavy, so I live in a bun or topknot more often than I did before.<br /></div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120287 Wed, 13 May 2020 15:08:29 +0000 Style Fan 2120287@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't think I will make any major changes to my style at this time.&nbsp; I am in the retirement fashion style phase of life and that seems to work for me.&nbsp; I do have a more dressy style that I pull out when needed but that is rare and now even rarer.&nbsp; I have come to some realizations over the years that my dissatisfaction with my appearance is complicated.&nbsp; Extremely complicated.&nbsp; Agonizing over it will not make me any happier.</p> <p>My husband and I have gotten into a routine of doing Virtual Yoga in the morning and going for a long walk in the afternoon.&nbsp; I am cooking more.&nbsp; I am trying more recipes.&nbsp; I don't particularly like cooking but I do feel better physically and I think I might be stronger in some ways.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>My hair is longer but I can cut my own bangs.&nbsp; I keep my make up simple.&nbsp; No changes there.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120282 Wed, 13 May 2020 14:40:03 +0000 cjh 2120282@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hey all, this has been interesting to read. Thanks for the initial post, Carla. And to everyone else who’s been in the discussion.<div><br /></div><div>I have not &nbsp;changed much how I dress or how I want to dress. I’m retired and my wardrobe is based on jeans, long sleeve tops and sweaters in cold weather, and shorts or crop jeans, short sleeved or sleeveless knit or woven tops, and cardigans in warm weather.</p> <p>My daily life is monotonous and I go nowhere. It doesn’t matter which outfit I choose, so It’s more of a uniform than ever. Pick the next top in the line, pick the (one of four rotating pairs) jeans on the top of the pile, choose a coordinating sweater. Add a scarf if it’s too cold in my basement sewing/art room, and add socks and tennis shoes to match. I am looking forward to my summer clothes, if the weather ever decides to cooperate! But I can’t say I’ll be any more creative.</p> <p>i don’t often wear jogging pants or leggings, so I’m not dressing any further down than I usually did before. But I never dress up at all either, since church and one club meeting are at home online, and all other social activities are cancelled. My niece postponed her wedding, so the one special occasion on my calendar is gone.</div><div><br /></div><div>Frankly, if I think about shopping for clothing, it makes no sense. I don’t need anything, and I don’t want to spend money that may not be there for future needs, our own or our kids’ (who are doing well and have not lost jobs, fortunately.) For myself, buying new clothes is totally meaningless at the moment. New running shoes were a requirement, though.</div><div><br />Some things have changed, but others haven’t. I no longer bother with any makeup, but earrings are a daily must. I did put on lipstick for grocery shopping the other day, but then realized that was dumb since I wore a mask. Moisturizer and sunscreen are still essential. I&nbsp;can’t see that anything I’m doing now will change when we go back to social activity. Maybe some blush powder and eye makeup. Definitely a haircut.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Health and mental health are my main priorities right now. Cooking healthy meals, getting my exercise by running and lifting free weights, and relentless cheering myself up by staying busy and being an encourager to DH, kids and others are all keeping me going. Bad dreams and sleeping poorly are signs I need to ramp up those healthy options the next day.</div><div><br /></div><div>My best wishes for you all as we journey through this unusual nightmare, for your safety, good health, and freedom from anxiety and fear.</div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120274 Wed, 13 May 2020 14:01:41 +0000 Irina 2120274@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well, I knew before that about 80% of my wardrobe is for being seen: office, outings on weekend, socializing. This was not a problem before, it was more of a goal. <br />Now I go and "visit" my beautiful clothes that stays in the closets, completely useless for my WFH days of sitting behind my table, surrounded by two lovely cats with long hair and sharp claws. I will be staying home for months with maybe only occasional visit to the office. Our office is in one of the tall buildings so there will be a struggle to manage access to the floors, safety issues and optimal number of people. My husband is in a high risk group, so we will be house bound for some time.<br />Would I want to change my style and how? I'm not there yet. I don't find appealing the idea of dressing up to go to a grocery store or for video conferencing. What does it say about me?&nbsp; &nbsp;<br />I used to walk from my office in downtown of a big city home. I always enjoyed people watching, bustle of the city, occasional drop by some stores. All of that is gone now, I feel somewhat visually under-stimulated. And I appreciate it now more after I lost it.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120268 Wed, 13 May 2020 13:18:37 +0000 Bijou 2120268@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Changes are happening at my work which may affect where and how I work. I can see more working from home in my future and I have mixed emotions about that. Working from home during covid lockdown has been a lonely experience for me. I miss the&nbsp; social aspects that working in a large office provides.&nbsp;</p> <p>I love wearing formal and dressy clothing, but I will most likely take things down a notch and wear and purchase more casual items. I have been using colour to lift my spirits, so I am still on team colour and very happy I chose PINK as my colour of the year. Pink is happy, cheerful, soft and pretty.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120264 Wed, 13 May 2020 13:05:46 +0000 Windchime 2120264@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It’s been so interesting to read your post, Runcarla, and everyone’s responses.</p> <p>A few positive things about two months (and counting) of “Shelter in Place” have been daily walks with DH, time to practice piano and actually master repertoire I’ve been poking at for YEARS, and the bonus of having our college freshman son back home two months earlier than planned. &nbsp;<div><br /></div><div>Stressors have been a somewhat-reduced income, too much isolation, even for my very introverted self, and a few pounds weight gain. &nbsp;I just don’t move around as much at home as when I’m at work, unless I really push myself to do so. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>I haven’t bought a single piece of clothing or lingerie since at least the beginning of March. &nbsp;Other than being very bored with my small jeans capsule, I’ve been okay with this. &nbsp;I’ve started focusing on skin care and have been researching some Korean products to take care of my middle-aged skin. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>I expect to be more anxious/stressed about the possibility of exposure to the virus when things start opening up here. &nbsp;At this point, I really don’t know how everything will affect my style going forward. &nbsp;I suspect I may skew a bit more casual; time will tell.<br /></div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120253 Wed, 13 May 2020 12:17:15 +0000 Liesbeth 2120253@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm not doing so well right now. It's been hard, working from home and having our toddler with us 24/7 without any help allowed or other kids to play with, for the past 8 weeks. And we've just heard not to expect any changes on that front until at least June 6th. Meanwhile, business are starting up again, which I get, but I just went shopping for a bit of a distraction and it's just no fun with all the security measures. Also, an entire fashion season has come and gone with 3/4 of my wardrobe untouched. So that gives me pause too. I'd so much rather be able to lean on friends &amp; family a bit again but well nothing I can do and everyone's in the same boat so I'll just stop there.<br /> Stylewise I think a shift is happeningbut still below the surface for now. I have started wearing actual clothes again weeks ago, but my stiffer or more precious work clothes, like creased trousers and blazers remain untouched. Same with heels and shoes that are hard to clean. For a while now I've been consciously distinguising between work and casual wear even though my workplace is pretty informal. And I do long to wear a nice dress again. But I also think that this whole thing may make me appreciate the truly versatile (stylish AND comfy, unfussy) items more. Also, how much workwear does one really need when working only 3 days a week in the office. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120252 Wed, 13 May 2020 12:12:19 +0000 Anonymous 2120252@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Interesting question and fascinating replies. &nbsp;I'm just taking it day by day, and feeling like I'm on a roller-coaster ride to some unknown destination. &nbsp;My current style can be described as "just grab something clean and put it on, who cares?," but that could change as we move forward. &nbsp;It's hard to imagine getting dressed up right now. &nbsp;I recently had a birthday and thought I'd get decked out just for the heck of it, but just couldn't muster up the fashion fires to do much beyond jeans and a tee. &nbsp;But there's always tomorrow... &nbsp; :)</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120217 Wed, 13 May 2020 04:30:36 +0000 Kaelyn 2120217@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've been thinking about this A LOT. As I just graduated from college and am looking for work, I anticipate a pretty big lifestyle shift, but I have no idea what it's going to look like yet, so I'm refraining from major purchases for now. What I WANT is to focus on practical, comfortable clothing I can move around in, because when it's safe to travel and hike again, I'm going to do so, so much of those things. I want a practical, easy to maintain haircut to go with it, and because of work, I may have to go back to a natural color instead of my now signature blue, at least for a little while. I'm overdue for an eye exam, so I'm deciding whether I want new frames, too. I'm trying to find silver linings in all this chaos, and looking forward to styling myself and my new apartment are definitely two of them. If I need to go dressier for work, I'll need to decide what look to go for there, too, and that'll be a challenge because I'm used to dressing casually most of the time. I've also been losing weight, and although I don't THINK I'm close to changing sizes, I'm keeping in mind the possibility that it may happen, and that's another disincentive to buy a bunch. Everything is in flux, and I'm both frustrated by and excited about it. I think MOSTLY excited, though. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120205 Wed, 13 May 2020 03:36:18 +0000 Jaime 2120205@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>These posts are so interesting. I was thinking of starting my own thread about what it is like here in Israel because, for better or worse, the country has basically opened up again. There are mask rules and other restrictions, and everyone is waiting to see if there is going to be a second wave, but the numbers are very low here still.&nbsp;<br />Anyway, back to this thread, I am still processing the answer. I am growing out my hair a bit, my fitness routine has evolved a bit but I have been working out at home for 30+ years, I have streamlined my wardrobe somewhat, learned to do my nails than rejected doing them as a lifestyle for now, playing more with eyemakeup as lipstick is now irrelevant, and am still in a very wait and see mood. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120197 Wed, 13 May 2020 02:54:16 +0000 Carla 2120197@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This long enforced pause is going to effect changes on all of our lifestyles, and how we think about ourselves, others, recreation, work, consumption, etc. Although it may seem trivial to talk about how one might dress in these times and afterwards, I don’t believe personal style is inconsequential now, nor will it be in the future. &nbsp; The novelty of pyjamas as workwear soon wears thin, and a crisp shirt (albeit with jeans and sneakers) or a day dress and neat ponytail can restore a modicum of normalcy, and possibly a dose of self esteem. &nbsp;</p> <p> <div><br /></div><div>@Angie - sorry for jumping ahead! &nbsp;I’m looking forward to your blog posts. &nbsp;The advice you share always provides focus to my scattered ideas. </p> <p>@slimcat - a couple extra inches of hair growth does give a stylist something extra to work with. &nbsp;Sometimes waiting out a difficult stage results in hair settling into something new and good in the interim. &nbsp;</p> <p> </div><div><br /></div><div>&nbsp;@suntiger - do you think there will be a stronger focus on eye make-up? &nbsp;Wearing a mask certainly puts the focus on the eyes. </p> <p>@Sal - you’ve stayed very true to your new year goals of medium to small wardrobe management, which turned out to be very appropriate for the kind of year we are having. &nbsp;Interesting note on colour and necklines for video conferencing. &nbsp;What do you think about light/dark contrast?&nbsp;</p> <p> </div><div><br /></div><div>@staysfit - I want to see your longer hair! &nbsp;Not only have I missed an appointment for a cut, but my stylist will be going on mat leave. &nbsp;I will be at the bottom of any stylists list for an appointment. &nbsp;I swing back and forth between returning to a signature ear length curly bob, or growing it longer with some layers to release the curl. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>@lisa p - I’m still forming ideas and collecting images, but for colours I’m planning on halting the acquisition of more red, and growing the yellow/gold and olive capsules, and adding lavender. &nbsp;Also, patterns. &nbsp;I’m interested in day dresses (like my asparagus paisley dress) with coloured leather sneakers. &nbsp;(DH suggested today that I get some lavender sneakers &nbsp;)I’ve started tucking t-shirts and button downs&nbsp;<i>into&nbsp;</i>bottoms. </p> <p>@Cardiffgirl - I wonder how many women will decide to refrain from colouring and keep their natural colour? &nbsp;and will this result in some chops and possibly some new and interesting short hair trends?</p> <p>@preppy pear and kellygirl - sounds like you’ve found a workable middle ground without any angst!</p> <p>@Nuancedream - I nominate ‘sloblivion’ as word of the year for the dictionary of urban slang, with ‘pajamification’ as a close second!</p> <p>@Joy - we just need to get those masks sorted out!</p> <p>@gaylene - you <i>are</i>&nbsp;the YLF sage. &nbsp;</p> <p>@Suz - BINGO! &nbsp;So right about lots of things!</p> <p> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120193 Wed, 13 May 2020 01:49:19 +0000 Suz 2120193@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Carla</b>, it makes sense you''d crave a style shift of some kind when the world is so fundamentally changed. I also think you're dealing with the regular change of season in Ontario, and that often provokes a style shift or evolution in itself! I love the idea of.a lavender capsule for you...maybe with the olive and the mustard. It works with red, too. A fun combination that could suit you. Can't wait to hear your hair ideas.&nbsp;</p> <p>I can tell you how my style has changed during the epidemic, but I can't tell you for sure how it might change in future.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Changes or patterns so far:&nbsp;</b></p> <ul> <li>An early phase of athleisure due to weather and a small travel wardrobe being all I had.</li> <li>Follow up phase of enjoyment in <b>real</b> clothes -- but on the ultra casual side for me. Sneakers and Fitflops/ comfy sandals -- no heels or even dressy shoes. Jeans (mostly wide legs with high waists) and simple tucked, semi tucked, or shorter tops. On warm days, I crave easy dresses and skirts that I can cross my legs in. (High five, <b>Preppy Pear</b>!)&nbsp;</li> <li>Masks for grocery and drugstore outings (thanks to <b>YOU</b>!!)&nbsp;Longer, messier, hair.&nbsp;</li> <li>Makeup unchanged -- light and simple, as always.&nbsp;</li> <li>Self-pedicure.</li> <li>Gardening capsule (older jeans, some older tops, big hat, sunscreen, sunnies.</li> <li>Frequent use of my backpack when walking -- not the fashion one but the Patagucci!! I now want a simple, small, casual crossbody -- lightweight nylon or similar. Or.a belt bag. Or a Hershel like your floral one that is more stylish than my Patagonia.&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>Mentally and emotionally, I am up and down. We've lost some distant loved ones to COVID and some close famiy and friends to other causes We've had many smaller disappointments and losses -- as has everyone, I know. And we've had a move to a new city and had to get used to living with a stranger for 6 weeks (long story). He's gone now.&nbsp;</p> <p>Our province has never been on "lockdown" but we're in Stage 1 of physical distancing still -- no groups, 6 ft. apart, most businesses closed, strongly encouraged to stay home, etc. It's been 8 weeks of this with a few weeks beforehand of less stringent measures.&nbsp;</p> <p>I normally work from home and don't see many people during my day. I am glad and grateful to be in a beautiful place with a loving spouse and &nbsp;(adult) child, and friends to whom I can talk to via What's App and phone. But I've been very overworked during this period, stressed by work and also loss of income and loss of opportunities for future work. And my child is going to have to go to university online only in the fall -- their first year in a new school and they have learning disabilities and mental health challenges. It is very, very hard for them.&nbsp;</p> <p>I'm active -- very! Out walking every day. Jogging and HIIT, and kettlebells workouts a few times a week via Zoom. Except I have no bells so have to use a backpack loaded with books. Improvisation is me! Gardening, too...a new passion.&nbsp;</p> <p>I decided to take part in this study -- a COVID questionnaire/ diary. Of course I write regularly myself but didn't really want to journal about this. Here, there are questions that I can answer and I'll get a report about my responses later, so I can see how the pandemic affected me and those I love. It's an interesting idea. Of course the researchers will generalize from individual responses and we might learn something as a society about how we are (or aren't) managing in this time.&nbsp;</p> <p><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.drkarenblair.com/covid">https://www.drkarenblair.com/covid</a></p> <p>In future? I foresee a bike capsule. I'm going to get my first bike in decades and intend to ride as much as I can.&nbsp;</p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120187 Wed, 13 May 2020 00:57:27 +0000 Helena 2120187@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I LOVE everything Gaylene said!</p> <p>I am sort of repeating myself from Lisa's thread, but just to add that style-wise, it's all about what works for ME. Anyone else's (mostly imagined in my head) thoughts on the matter have gone out the window. I wear what works for the day, polish myself up to my own satisfaction, wear whatever colour I choose, and then forget it for the day. It's nice, and giving me food for thought.</p> <p>Health-wise, I'm keeping up my usual fitness somewhat, by doing Zumba via zoom and yoga with Yoga with Adriene, which is roughly equivalent to what I did at the gym. But I CANNOT STOP EATING SUGAR! It is RIDICULOUS. Baking, gummy bears, chocolate - bonkers. Need to start my food tracker again to set myself straight! I think this must be some sort of stress response? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120182 Wed, 13 May 2020 00:40:12 +0000 Gaylene 2120182@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>As a closet introvert, these last few months having actually felt freeing. I’ve gone on a reading binge, enjoyed playing around in the kitchen, had fun dragging out my long neglected Pfaff sewing machine, figured out how to get most of our household stuff using curb-pickup, &nbsp;and gone for long, solo walks thinking about how my former “ought-to” lists now seem rather shallow and stupid.&nbsp;</p> <div><br /></div><div>Maybe it’s my age (70 with an 80+ spouse), but my new heroes are the medical personnel with red marks on their faces from their PPE. The fresh-faced teenager who is brave enough to stand behind a register checking out my groceries looks more beautiful to me these days than any fashion blogger wearing a full face of makeup. With all the dedication and compassion I see around me, my fussing&nbsp;about a haircut or a pedicure now seems rather comical. If I end up in an ICU, I doubt my unplucked eyebrows or saggy upper arms will warrant much interest from anyone, including me. Maintaining my health Is one thing, but fretting about a saggy butt because I can’t get to gym isn’t in the same ballpark. Same goes for my wardrobe “holes”, unpolished nails, graying hair, extra 5 pounds, or whatever. &nbsp;As women, we put a lot of “shoulds” in our lives but maybe not all of them are worth the time, effort, and expense? As I said, solo walking gives me lots of time to reflect—and I’m not always happy with my conclusions.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>So, yes, I think these past few months have made me less inclined to want to return to my former style—in clothes or in attitude. Being in a “high risk group” during a pandemic offers a person a good dose of reality. I’m exceedingly grateful for what I have and more than a little &nbsp;aghast at how much I took for granted only a few months ago.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>The weird thing, in spite of all that I wrote above, I’m actually happier with my appearance, wardrobe, and self than I was pre COVID-19. The sense of liberation from all the “fluff” has been an eye opener.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120173 Wed, 13 May 2020 00:22:33 +0000 Preppy Pear 2120173@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The earliest I will return to the office is July, but in theory I could be working from home through December, and I don’t know when I’ll be ready for small-scale socializing again. </p> <p>At the beginning of the shutdown, I only wore my jeans and long sleeved T’s. It felt weird to dress like I was going to the office, but it also felt strange not to. As I’ve adjusted, I’m back to dressing in shirts with collars and dresses and skirts. My style hasn’t changed too much, but it has really put me in touch with dressing to make myself happy with no audience or outside expectations. So that’s a big internal shift even if I still wear mostly the same things.</p> <p>I am reaching for my pants, skirts and dresses that I can sit cross-legged comfortably in. That describes a good chunk of my wardrobe, so that’s good. Dress pants, a handful of dresses and skirts, and blazers aren’t getting worn at home. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120169 Tue, 12 May 2020 23:38:47 +0000 nuancedream 2120169@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Very interesting and timely post,&nbsp;<b>Carla.</b> Prior to COVID-19, I was dealing with a very emotionally stressful situation. Although that situation has calmed down a little bit, a final resolution is not likely before the end of this year. Physically, I have been able to keep up with with weight lifting/kettlebell training and Pilates via Zoom classes.&nbsp; Admittedly, it's a little weird watching my instructor on a screen or not be able to use the equipment that I would use in the studio. I enjoy taking walks and bike rides with DH for exercise, but not being able to play tennis with friends is a tough pill to swallow. </p> <p>Mentally, I find I get upset more easily, usually regarding situations over which I have little control. I'm trying to develop hobbies, like needlepoint, that keep my hands active since my job requires so much computer time. DH has been very patient and supportive. I am so grateful and lucky to be with him.</p> <p>In a previous post, I indicated I didn't want to fall into the abyss of sloblivion and pajamification. Well, at least I don't wear pajamas all day.&nbsp; My daily uniform is now a pair of jeans, which now bore me to tears, and any old shirt.&nbsp; Sneakers are footwear of choice, but slippers are what I wear most often at home.&nbsp; Makeup, hair and nails are now lost causes. Thank goodness we don't have Zoom meetings at work! I actually wanted to buzz off all of my hair, but it's never a good idea to take any action that is based in frustration and boredom.&nbsp;</p> <p>I am finding that I am really liking silhouettes that are fluid and not too oversized. My love for color and pattern are still there, but perhaps a bit dormant right now.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120166 Tue, 12 May 2020 23:30:45 +0000 kellygirl 2120166@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think my style has relaxed a bit more mostly because I'm not seeing customers. Our office has been on lockdown so we haven't seen the public and we're all kind of working different shifts in separated offices so don't see much of each other even when we are there at the same time. If anything, I'm much more of a mood dresser now--since the pressure of making an impression is pretty much non-existent. I'm sure that will change when things return to normal but it's a nice break. I do see sneakers playing a bigger role provided the ones I ordered are comfortable enough. Other than that, I don't anticipate any big changes unless I stop fitting into my clothes--haha!</p> <p>I struggled with missing the routine of going to the gym a lot the first month. Now I'm realizing it's not that big a deal. I've been running and doing weights in my garage and while it's not optimal, it's fine at least for the time being. I'm fluffier than usual but that's all diet--at least my cardio is decent.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120164 Tue, 12 May 2020 23:24:37 +0000 cindysmith 2120164@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I just want places to wear my heels and stuff. I just dressed up in a favored outfit to go to the laundromat. I'm bored with relaxed style, I'm bored with sitting on my arse eating cupcakes, I'm bored with not seeing anyone live and in person but my coworkers. I haven't gotten any sense of whether I will come out of this wanting to change my style, but I am starting to feel so angry at being bored that I may start wearing things that scare people when I have places to go again LOL </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120162 Tue, 12 May 2020 23:18:51 +0000 Anonymous 2120162@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I feel much as you do. While I have gotten dressed every day at home, I feel that many will want the work place to accept more casual and more comfy clothes than before. I think sneakers of some sort will permanently replace heels. I think their will be less makeup used and maybe less shopping. I suspect that we all realize that we have more than we need and will shop more carefully.. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120156 Tue, 12 May 2020 22:54:53 +0000 Cardiff girl 2120156@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What a thought provoking post.l have enjoyed reading everyone’s thoughts.We are on week 7 of lockdown here in Wales whilst my brothers family who live in England are allowed more freedoms from tomorrow but we are all expecting a second spike as a result.<br />Physically my back is not liking being at home quite so much but I am doing more cardio and stretches so feel fitter in some way.Really missing swimming and the whole body workout that that gives.<br />l don’t feel that I have had any profound revelations about myself during lockdown,l am pretty comfortable with my own company and have lots of home hobbies and sufficient motivation to do them.l have really enjoyed my music and garden but like most am finding it all a bit repetitive now.<br />l have learnt much more about other people by their reaction to lockdown ,whose good at staying at home ,who struggles,what they find helpful.This &nbsp;has been my biggest challenge ,managing and supporting other peoples emotional reaction to the pandemic.<br />Fashion wise I oscillate between complete disinterest and wanting to wear nice things but comfort and practicality rule the day at the moment and as we are unlikely to be going out much for months to come thoughts of style are not top of my mind at the moment.l expect this will change as a more normal way of being gradually returns.</p> <p>I am very curious to see how grey I am and the way things are going l am soon going to find out!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120152 Tue, 12 May 2020 22:31:04 +0000 Angie 2120152@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I enjoyed reading your musings, ladies. It all makes so much sense!&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Carla</b>, lavender was the start of the shift, I noticed....</p> <p>In the state of WA, we are going to start phase 2 at the end of the month (there are 4 phases to the new normal). We are still on Stay At Home order now - phase 1 (9 weeks in). I can have my hair cut in 16 days unless things change.&nbsp;</p> <p>I'll give you a sneak peak of my blog content in terms of what has changed post COVID-19 with respect to my style, and I'm sticking with it: </p> <ul> <li>Sporting my hair a little longer</li> <li>Sneakers most of the time</li> <li>No lipstick</li> <li>No rings</li> <li>Wearing a mask</li> <li>Sticking to the tried and tested signatures that offer comfort in every sense</li> <li>Not in the mood to experiment with more adventurous fashions</li> <li>Supporting retailers who helped our healthcare heroes because ethical fashion has taken on a new meaning for me</li> <li>All birthday trip celebrations cancelled and the capsules I was building for them too</li> </ul> <p>Physically, I feel stiff because I can't do yoga at home. It makes me anxious. I am the same hyper active and energetic self though, and a very busy bee. </p> <p>Mentally, I feel very strong, calm, and hopeful despite busloads of nerves and stresses. It has been the GREATEST gift being together as a family of three after years of living apart during the week, and especially after our awful 2019. My boys and I are soooooo thrilled and blessed to be a family again.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120151 Tue, 12 May 2020 22:28:35 +0000 Anonymous 2120151@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What colour schemes and silhouettes are you considering ? I sensed something with your interest in lavender .... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120149 Tue, 12 May 2020 22:18:07 +0000 Staysfit 2120149@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am curious about how you might change your hair. &nbsp;To me it seems to be a signature feature of your style. &nbsp;Several months before all the closures, I had decided to let my hair grow. &nbsp;It will need some shaping, but I like seeing my curls again. &nbsp;I plan to maintain a longer hairstyle.</p> <p>I have been slowly honing my wardrobe. &nbsp;I anticipate that we will downsize our house in the next year. &nbsp;I doubt a smaller home will have as much storage as we have currently, so I have been focused on the practicality and functionality of my wardrobe. &nbsp;I have learned what silhouettes work, and find that when I stick with them, I feel and look my best. &nbsp;The biggest change for me will be less experimentation. &nbsp;I plan to rely more heavily on accessories as a means to vary outfits and keep classic favorites updated. &nbsp;I anticipate my wardrobe will slowly shrink in size as I cling to my personal favorites and weed out the rest. &nbsp;<div><br /></div><div>I am loving bright colorful lips. The happiness factor of the perfect red lip color has been enough to add joy to my workdays. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>I have been wearing flat shoes every day. &nbsp;I miss my heeled shoes and booties, but wonder if my feet will hurt when I try to wear them again! &nbsp;One of my first closet edits for Spring has been to eliminate any heels higher than 3 inches. &nbsp;I may eventually decide to lower the heel max. In my wardrobe to 2.5 inches. &nbsp;</div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120148 Tue, 12 May 2020 22:05:46 +0000 Sal 2120148@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Interesting thoughts Carla and all that have posted.</p> <p>We went into Stage 4 Alert (Stay at home/lockdown) March 25th which lasted almost five weeks, followed by two weeks and a day at Level 3 which lifts today.&nbsp; As of tomorrow I can pretty much do what I like with the exception of gatherings over 10 people....&nbsp; There are procedures in place for shopping, gyms etc and school starts Monday 18th and my older son flies to his university hall on Tuesday.</p> <p>My thoughts are in flux as there have been positives of course... (time, reading, non rushed meals, and I have progressed a few jobs in our home that I had put off for some time).&nbsp; But I have missed many aspects too and I worry about some aspects of the future.</p> <p>I have been keeping active and fit but it has been different (more walking, biking and yoga - less HIT and weights).&nbsp; Gentle and often has suited me during this time.&nbsp; I definitely miss the social aspect of exercise as this is a big thing for me!!</p> <p>Stylewise I see myself staying on the same route - a small-medium size wardrobe with a nod to trends...... I don't need more clothes and I haven't missed shopping really at all. I am interested in exploring colour a bit more- seeing myself online in lots of Zoom or Skype calls has made me realise how necklines and colour have such an impact.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120142 Tue, 12 May 2020 21:36:23 +0000 Anonymous 2120142@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Same here. I do not want to return to life as it was, not all of it anyway. My body definitely doesn't feel as strong, but being able to be in the woods every day and take care of plants centers me. I really love plants these days </p> <p>Most of what I've bought lately is gear, but am sorted for when I have to return (kicking and screaming) to the office. I don't foresee wanting to wear my highest heels, and am not interested in buying more. 2 inches or so will probably be what I choose for daily wear. Though atm, I'm just looking at Birks for hiking </p> <p>Not feeling heavy makeup anymore either. The bolder eyeshadows just feel too much right now, especially since no lipstick to balance. Today was just liner, brows, mascara, powder, and bronzer.</p> <p>I've been more drawn to camo too, and neutrals/darks not brights. Besides, the bright colors seem to attract bees! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120141 Tue, 12 May 2020 21:24:18 +0000 slim cat 2120141@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think I'm in a waiting/pausing time frame now. <br />Since I don't know what my future work will require me to wear/do in our changing time - I'm not shopping for work clothes or dressier pieces. I have enough casual things that I'm comfortable with ( plus couple pants in a bigger size that fit good now ). <br />I do like the idea of changing the hair - color, shape, maybe length.&nbsp;<br />Somehow camouflage print feels more appealing now or overall feeling that clothes equals the armor more than before.&nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120131 Tue, 12 May 2020 20:57:41 +0000 Anonymous 2120131@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It's interesting that you notice a physical as well as mental change. I do too. I feel less confident physically than I did 2 months ago, and am struggling with that right now. &nbsp;Mentally, I'm in a much better place than I was in March, even though my own situation remains even more tenuous than before . &nbsp;This dichotomy is interesting, and I'm trying to figure out where I'll go with all of this. Style-wise ? Yes, I've started dabbling in vintage home decor stuff, and a few clothing pieces, and I'm really interested in a less predictable/chain-store look than ever before. I've also experience a huge desire to change up my hair - and thus I suppose my overall look. Maybe less external influence and less shopping in stores has allowed my creative side and my own eye take over a bit more. The challenge will be to actually execute all of this.</p> <p>I do find that my world has become smaller, and you know something ? I'm pretty good with that. My relationship with my husband has actually never been better , and I'm so happy that my daughter is loving her time with us as much as we do with her. &nbsp;I didn't used to be that "family is everything " type of person , but I am now. &nbsp;Also - the expectation to travel and see the world has been lessened, and I'm grateful for that too. &nbsp;It's not something we have been able to do , and I've struggled a lot with that. Being able to live within my own 4 walls makes me feel safe and happy.<br />&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/catalyst-for-change---or-not#post-2120127 Tue, 12 May 2020 20:48:09 +0000 Anonymous 2120127@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>So did I ;)&nbsp; </p>