https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 14 Apr 2026 18:51:34 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901898 Tue, 27 Mar 2018 12:11:53 +0000 gryffin 1901898@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Roxanna - I so get this.&nbsp; You come home and enter your cocoon of comfort, to restore and recharge.&nbsp; I so that with several pieces - leggings and tank with either the Everlane chunky cardigan coat <a href="http://grechenscloset.com/everlane-chunky-wool-year-later-review/" rel="nofollow">http://grechenscloset.com/ever.....er-review/</a>&nbsp; you can see it here.&nbsp; I wear it buttoned as a coat dress.&nbsp; of the Emerson fry <a href="https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&amp;ccid=vFGEHt07&amp;id=A1C19EA50FCF4A1E3A2CF9AE7A5D9330F8596256&amp;thid=OIP.vFGEHt07oG7wTRcoxJCskwDIEs&amp;mediaurl=https%3a%2f%2fi.pinimg.com%2f736x%2fe1%2fbb%2f0a%2fe1bb0ad72309805fc33808f61892c59f--emerson-fry-long-sweaters.jpg&amp;exph=701&amp;expw=468&amp;q=emerson+fry+oversized+long+sweater&amp;simid=608015454074637508&amp;selectedIndex=1&amp;qpvt=emerson+fry+oversized+long+sweater&amp;ajaxhist=0" rel="nofollow">https://www.bing.com/images/se.....3A2CF9AE7A</a>&nbsp;long oversized sweater.&nbsp; But when I really need to recharge it's barefoot dreams cozy chic long zip front robe in indigo.&nbsp; Although I'm 5'3" and 115 lbs and usually a small 6 I buy the size 2.&nbsp; So it's ankle length and big and cozy and warm.&nbsp; It's like wearing a hug.&nbsp; My work clothing is so comfy and enjoyable I no longer change to lounge wear right away, I used to, so I totally get this, but when I need to be soothed that above is what I wear </p> <p>Firecracker - to me dressing for mood to enhance and support is what I w consider as restorative to me.&nbsp; I don't think it's important how we label things but to understand what things and actions help us get more happily through the day.&nbsp; Your outfits are always interesting, elegant, comfortable looking and practical but always unique and personal.&nbsp; I'd think they are very nurturing to all that you would do.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901828 Tue, 27 Mar 2018 02:11:34 +0000 Roxanna 1901828@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Gryffin - this is such a thought provoking post. For years I have thought I was an extreme extrovert but I am realizing that I might be an introvert - I crave stimulation but only to a point, and I MUST recharge myself after social situations, or even after a few hours with my (very loud but very lovable) kids. Still trying to figure that one out. </p> <p>Your thoughts made me realise that I do use clothing as restorative niche, definitely - but it's all about the texture and feel of the clothing. I am very sensitive to the feel of things, and one of the things that grounds me is changing into 'cozy clothes' at the end of a long day (soft sweats and a fleece robe.) I must do it the second I get home as it nurtures me - so much so that my kids refer to me in my home clothes as 'cozy mummy.' I completely use this as a restorative ritual bury didn't realise it until you pointed it out! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901751 Mon, 26 Mar 2018 20:17:55 +0000 Firecracker (Sharan) 1901751@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What an interesting thread! I appreciate your original post, gryffin, and all the responses. Angie, I want to let you know you have company: I am an extravert. (I am surprised at how many introverts YLF has attracted!) And high-five to Sal. I felt myself nodding along with you. Back to restorative niche--thank you for introducing the term to me, gryffin. What a useful concept, and fascinating how you see clothing as a way of creating the niche. I don't, but I am definitely a mood dresser. Today I have on comfort clothing, for sure, on a day that I feel like wrapping myself in cosiness. My outfit is boyfriend jeans, one of my favorite warm undershirts (Uniqlo heat-tech), under a soft, medium-blue cashmere sweater. My fun floral loafers. My favorite studded belt. To go out, I wore my knee-length navy trench coat, light gray knit floppy newsboy cap, and light gray backpack. It's not a restorative niche outfit, but it reflects the mood I'm in. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901590 Sun, 25 Mar 2018 21:55:27 +0000 gryffin 1901590@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Staysfit - I so wish I could have a long talk with you.&nbsp; When we were contemplating the renovate or move question - that's when I found Sarah Susanka and A Pattern Language.&nbsp; Areas of shelter around activity, window seats, light from up to 4 directions, integrating the interior to exterior, "exterior rooms" build in bookcases/storage.&nbsp; We designed each room around purposes and decorated accordingly.&nbsp; The harmony, the peace, the restoration and respite.&nbsp; The is HOME.&nbsp; Here is renewal, safety, in essence - sanctuary.&nbsp; My playfulness is mostly realized in my home.&nbsp; Each room contains something faux.&nbsp; The foyer with it's faux "marble" cream and apricot stenciled floors, the faxu jute Aubusson, the dining room server with it's sepia painting of greek ruins, the painted screen, the tile rug - each room contains is secret -&nbsp; the mellow golds, creams, apricots, mossy greens and terracotta brick and large uncovered windows integrates the exterior "rooms" into the interior.&nbsp; Home is sanctuary.</p> <p>I also use jewelry as a restorative niche.&nbsp; I carry my harmony ball necklace in my purse.&nbsp; I can not have it far from me.&nbsp; So even when I don't wear it I remember to stay grounded, centered, focus on the important not the annoyances of life.&nbsp; My playfulness is wearing my "dog" charm and dog jewelry.&nbsp; I wear special pieces from my dad and grandmother to channel everything they were and find the best of them inside me.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>I also enjoy movement in clothes.&nbsp; No one plays to this better than EF.&nbsp; Clothing is alive and when there is harmony in our surroundings and dress that gives me the well of peace from which to negotiate my day.&nbsp; Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts.&nbsp; I wish I could hear more of them.<br />Jenni - our touchstones.&nbsp; The things that "spark joy."<br />Katerina - I always think of the private jokes and pleasures of dress as "the hidden life" and the fact that they are private but in plain sight gives me joy. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901495 Sun, 25 Mar 2018 12:26:30 +0000 krishnidoux 1901495@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yes, I am with you. I like that there is now a word for me to this concept. I love reading all the members stories that came from this question. Thank you! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901406 Sat, 24 Mar 2018 23:29:45 +0000 Style Fan 1901406@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love what Staysfit wrote.&nbsp; Great response.&nbsp; I can relate to so much of it.&nbsp; I may come back later when I have more time. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901384 Sat, 24 Mar 2018 22:23:03 +0000 Suz 1901384@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What wonderful stories you shared, <b>Staysfit</b>! It sounds as if you have created a beautiful and restorative home, and also as if you have found a way to carry your positive role models everywhere with you. What a gift of imagination and empathy. And yes! You were one of the doctors I was thinking of as a positive example of playful, conversational style. I like what you say about the varied levels of dress you consider...this might be particularly valuable in your sub specialty and community.&nbsp;</p> <p>I want to do want to clarify that I would <b>never</b> less of my doctor if she (or he) seemed to care about fashion! On the contrary -- I would be feel curious about this and perhaps would connect more easily with that doctor!&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901381 Sat, 24 Mar 2018 22:06:40 +0000 Katerina 1901381@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Staysfit, I relate strongly to what you have said about you having a playful side which is not extroverted. I am an introvert as well and I also get amused by some outfits, or items. In fact, the playfulness is very important to me, it is a way to express myself (sometimes for others to see and sometimes just privately for myself). Anyway, it gives me joy. And also armor - a distance to things. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901351 Sat, 24 Mar 2018 20:17:58 +0000 Jenni NZ 1901351@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh yay, that's awesome Staysfit. You will love the book "Quiet". I got it off the shelf yesterday to look up the spelling of "extrovert"- she does use the o but she addresses the issue saying that is the colloquial use with the a being more used in the scientific literature. Now the book is out I may read it for a third time. Despite my extroversion I still get very tired caring for people all day and need a restorative niche. Actually I think my bright clothing especially shoes make me happy during the day when I look down, and the shoes have started many a consultation in a friendly way if the patient comments. Which is why I challenged the comments about doctors' clothing choices. Thanks Lisap for responding to that above.<br /> We get fairly deep here for a fashion forum! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901335 Sat, 24 Mar 2018 19:53:19 +0000 Staysfit 1901335@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Gryffin, thanks for the thought provoking topic. My response is going to be long, so forgive me, but I am so interested in this subject. I haven’t read my copy of Quiet yet, but I am definitely an Introvert who can navigate social situations, but find them exhausting. I suspect many in my specialty gravitate towards the I end of the I/E spectrum, although it isn’t a given. I live much of my life internally, and think deeply. It’s my job, and it comes naturally. I typically don’t share what I think with others. I keep most of my internal life private, despite the very rich thought process that takes place. I believe that my ability to think deeply, and to know and recognize my feelings and responses accurately contribute to my successful career and my success as a parent of two autistic children. However, as an introvert, my professional environment can be exhausting. I get very tired, because I use so much energy to concentrate while working and to navigate my environment with all the noise and chaos. </p> <p>I like the concept of “restorative niche”. I don’t think anyone has mentioned accessories as part of their restorative niche, but I think it is probably the main part of mine. I wear jewelry that has been given to me by people that were special in my life, for example, my aunt, my grandmother, etc. I feel comforted by knowing I have this jewelry with me during the day. I feel like I can channel some piece of their personality that I cherish in a brief moment. I touch a bangle from my aunt and it reminds me of her wonderful poise in every social setting. She had perfect grace. She always looked good, and was welcoming. Her bangles remind me, even when I am getting tired and cranky, to maintain my compassion, to stay composed and calm, graceful under pressure. My grandmother was a storyteller, she was a reader, and she could talk to anyone. Her earrings reminds me that I can find the words I need to communicate with almost anyone. So, someone might argue that the jewelry is used as a sort of talisman, but it’s not luck or just sentiment I get from these objects. I get positive energy. I channel the traits that are hardest for me as an introvert when my energy is low, and my stress level high. </p> <p>The idea of color vs. neutral as restorative niche is also very insightful. Certain colors give me calm focused energy. I think those are the colors in my work wardrobe. I have mostly neutral greys, denim blues and blue greens, and in summer some white. I do wear color, but typically color is mixed with the neutral, and is one of my calm focused energy colors. I feel happy in my colors, and they help me. Every once in a while, I feel the need to protect myself even more than usual. I need body armor in the form of my outfit and makeup. I think it’s interesting how different people do this in different ways. When I am in need of doing this I can go two ways, I can sink into the background and go all grey, or I can use all color. I find the either works to help me sink into the background and I maintain my energy better. I think it works because I am so tall. It’s as intimidating to see a tall person who is very colorful and powerful looking as seeing a tall powerful person dressed sharply all in grey. The very act of selecting my clothes and putting on my makeup has a calming effect for me sometimes. It helps me prepare. It is particularly useful when I have a migraine for me to wear colors that I like. For whatever reason, I find the energy boost from the colors useful when I am feeling lousy. In fact the worse I feel, the more careful attention I pay to how I look. </p> <p>I am currently adding items with some movement and texture to my wardrobe. I have found that having some flow in a garment when I move is energizing, and makes me feel good, as long as it isn’t too much. I’m not about having too much drape. It can be a long cardigan so I have a cape like superhero effect flowing out behind me as I walk quickly. I have long legs so the effect would be dramatic. The idea amuses me, and I definitely have a playful side that is not extroverted. In fact I think it would be a mistake to confuse playful with extrovert. I wear a lot of things that I find amusing for one reason or another, often my reasons are private, and no one would ever recognize anything amusing about my outfit, other times they may be left wondering. However, because I do not want to distract with my clothes, I try not to do anything too outlandish. Sometimes I worry people will be distracted by my clothes, not because they are gaudy but because they are too nice or too formal in a very casual community. So, in my mind, there is a continuum where clothes go from dowdy, to fine, to dressy, to suit of armor, to overkill. I try to avoid dowdy and overkill, but wear all the others depending on my mood and environment. </p> <p>The concepts of architecture and design are fascinating. If my mother could have picked my profession she would have picked architecture, not medicine. I have lived in two houses here in NY. The first was a disaster, It was a standard center hall transitional colonial style home. My kids couldn’t manage it. I felt anxious all the time because I felt like I was in a fish bowl. I read Sarah Susanka’s Books and A Pattern Language, and then went through a process of design and having a house built. I was instantly at peace once we moved. We have been here over a decade. I credit my home for helping with the success of my children. It served as a refuge for them. It gave them a sense of organization, place, and purpose. Our home makes sense, it lives well. It has a lot of natural light. My color scheme is earthy and blends well with the trees outside. My walls are filled with my daughters paintings and my plentiful shelves are filled with books, and photos. There are select objects that people have given to us or that we have collected. Our decor isn’t really organized decor as much as our collection of treasured objects. I think of our home as the hub of our shared experiences as a family. I once told someone that my house was like a summer lodge on Lake Michigan that I once visited as a teenager. Our home has a very warm feeling with large overstuffed chairs and couches, medium cherry wood and light cherry wood as well. Hardwood floors everywhere but oriental rugs. I have a mix of textures and patterns but not so much that they overwhelm. It’s pleasing and restful. There are nooks for reading, window seats, lots of windows and natural light. It’s open but still feels cozy. I love the connection with the exterior. Every room in my house except one has light coming from at least two directions, often three. It is definitely a place to recharge. It’s an introverts haven.</p> <p>Several people raised the relevance of not wanting to be distracted by what their doctor was wearing, or wanting their doctor to appear as though their energy was spent thinking about and listening to their problems, not about their wardrobe. In my world we call that a transference, counter-transference issue, and I could go on and write an entire text book on the subject based on my experiences. (I will not though.). In my world, this is a fashion forum. Enough said. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901296 Sat, 24 Mar 2018 17:50:41 +0000 Anonymous 1901296@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>JenniZ - just reading your comments now. &nbsp;My preferences are, well, mine, and are based on my ideas of communicating &nbsp;authority, intelligence and expertise through dress. &nbsp;Of course it's absolutely subjective, and we all have different ideas as to what demonstrates those characteristics. My own doctor doesn't dress like gryffin either, but does dress quietly and professionally. &nbsp;As we all know, first impressions go a long way in the work world. &nbsp;What works for you may be different that what works for others !&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901206 Sat, 24 Mar 2018 03:58:49 +0000 Jenni NZ 1901206@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Surely there must be a mixture of people in journalism as well. My sister is a journalist ( in London, UK- moved there aged 23 and never returned) and she is an introvert. She found interviewing people difficult and was much happier when she became a sub-editor behind the scenes. Whereas I'm guessing some TV presenters are extroverts! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901197 Sat, 24 Mar 2018 02:06:05 +0000 SarahD8 1901197@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ha, Jenni, that’s funny most of the actual journalists I know are very much introverts. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/4#post-1901184 Sat, 24 Mar 2018 00:37:10 +0000 Style Fan 1901184@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Jenni, I am so sorry about the bullying.&nbsp; You seem to be a very kind and compassionate person.&nbsp; Journalling is so helpful.&nbsp; I am an INFP.&nbsp; No surprise to anyone who knows me. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1901112 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 18:27:58 +0000 Jenni NZ 1901112@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ha! Thanks La Ped! Interesting that I was "correcting" the spelling and mentioning Jung in the same post! The article explains ( IMO) why it was spelt differently by Myers-Briggs, they were trying to be more scientific about it. Not sure I will be able to change. Might check Quiet as well.<br /> Thank you Suz. I have emerged stronger, and happier, 10 years on. But there were some very difficult times for a couple of years requiring reevaluation of how I had ordered my world for 47 years up to that point. Needed a lot of time alone, journalling. Funnily enough one of the MBTI sessions I had done in 2002 ( so much earlier) had called the ESFJ a "journalist". </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1901099 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 17:36:30 +0000 gryffin 1901099@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>La Ped - thanks for following up and linking to the article.&nbsp; It was very interesting.&nbsp; I do feel personally introversion has more resonance to me as stimulation/decision.&nbsp; I really like that definition.&nbsp; I will be using the "extra" with an A version!!&nbsp; Hail Jung!&nbsp; Ave!!</p> <p>Suz - I agree the pleasure is in the balance.&nbsp; I enjoy the excitement of cities, but lately find NYC with it's moving wall of people claustrophobic.&nbsp; It's like that Star Trek original series episode "The Mark of Gideon"&nbsp; I do enjoy a day at the mall to window shop&nbsp;now and then.&nbsp; The abundance can be soothing in small doses.&nbsp; But have to search through racks and rack and racks for a needed item&nbsp;- that will definitely shut me down.&nbsp; Same I enjoy a big party but I prefer quiet evenings with good friends.&nbsp; I agree it's all balance Suz, if life is quiet, big and exciting is a great change, if life is too chaotic and busy, then the need for quiet increases.&nbsp; </p> <p></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1901071 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 15:36:42 +0000 Suz 1901071@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What a conversation to lead us deep into the history of a word's spelling! That's YLF. Much more than meets the eye, that's us!&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Jenni,</b> I think being bullied as an adult is just as bruising as being bullied as a child, and of course it would cause one to reassess and it might even alter one's old patterns. I'm sorry this happened to you, although it seems you have emerged from it stronger. As for a doctor's fashion choices -- I did not mean to imply that I wouldn't want my doctor to look like she was having fun with fashion. &nbsp;I know several doctors who dress in whimsical or colourful ways (some on this forum!) and I respect that choice and would enjoy working with them -- after all, a conversation item can make someone approachable in what might otherwise be a tense situation. I merely meant to affirm <b>gryffin</b>'s choices for herself and to note that in some cases a calm, neutral appearance could be professionally advantageous — &nbsp;soothing or calming to &nbsp;patients and perhaps also to the wearer. In the end I think dressing as authentically as possible without going wildly outside community norms is probably key.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>gryffin</b>, I was so interested in your examples! When I was a classroom teacher in secondary school, I found my big city trips too overstimulating...and had to be careful about what I planned for when I visited. And this is when I stopped shopping, too, because I found the big stores and the malls overwhelming.</p> <p>&nbsp;Now that I (mostly) work from home and teach only once a week (to a small group) and work only sporadically with larger groups, I enjoy the city's stimulation again, and I have regained my ability to shop in person (though I still prefer online for most of my actual purchasing.) For me it is clearly a question of creating balance and a change in work or life circumstance will necessitate change in other areas. &nbsp;And amen to closet organization for that -- it works no matter what! :)&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1901059 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 15:04:50 +0000 LaPed 1901059@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Okay, I couldn't resist, did some research on extr<b></b>a<b></b>vert vs extr<b></b>o<b></b>vert and here's what I came up with:</p> <p><a rel="nofollow" href="https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/beautiful-minds/the-difference-between-extraversion-and-extroversion/"></a><a rel="nofollow" href="https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/beautiful-minds/the-difference-between-extraversion-and-extroversion/">The Difference between ExtrAversion and ExtrOversion</a> <p>Looks like the word was misspelled with an "o" (and its definition somewhat altered) in an early (1918) American psychoanalytic paper, and dictionaries went with that spelling rather than Jung's (he used an "a").</p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1901046 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 14:42:58 +0000 gryffin 1901046@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Christina - I agree&nbsp;although "buying" clothing my be restorative for some people, what we wear and how we wear it.&nbsp; Organizing our closets, clothes, accessories, creating visual harmony, outfit harmony, feeling great in what we wear, so our outfits vanish and we can simply get on with life because we are at one with how we've expressed ourselves and that image, even ignored, supports, sustains and soothes us.&nbsp; That's a pretty powerful respite at least for me!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1901032 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 14:25:38 +0000 Christina F. 1901032@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am very late to this.</p> <p>I don't know know if I'm an introvert or extrovert. I think it's some combination of the two. I crave balance between the two, mostly. I am drawn to bright colors and patterns, but I like to use both with a bit of restraint. I'm not much for pattern mixing, for instance. </p> <p>I think working on my wardrobe is my restorative niche, and I'm glad you've brought this up. I've had trouble finding another hobby that fits with my available time, talents, and interests, and that I'm drawn to as much. Of course, I don't have endless space and time to be continuing to build my wardrobe, but I can always focus on creating outfits with what I have. Food for thought. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1901006 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 13:28:30 +0000 gryffin 1901006@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>La Ped - thanks for the input.&nbsp; Fortunately, the spelling doesn't muddy the concept but it's interesting that it does vary.&nbsp; I'm intrigued.&nbsp; English major also and the origin and evolution of words is fascinating. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1900999 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 12:42:45 +0000 LaPed 1900999@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm a language person, not a psych person, and as far as I know both extro- and extra- are acceptable English spellings, but the "o" version is more common, at least colloquially. I think it was Jung who brought the terms into widespread use, so maybe one is closer to the German spelling? I think a lot of scientific papers use "extravert" -- so maybe it's more correct but less popular? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1900996 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 12:18:40 +0000 gryffin 1900996@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lyn - I am always amazed by people who speak multiple languages.&nbsp; I just don't have that pathway.&nbsp; You write incredibly, I would never have guessed.&nbsp; I agree with are all too complex for generalizations and boxes, but that being said, generalities sometimes generate causing those moments of insight and that's what really does it for me.&nbsp; It sounds like you have a great balance of I/E that allows you to cull the best from both worlds!!&nbsp; Kudos!!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1900995 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 12:10:52 +0000 lyn67 1900995@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I always come out as an ENTJ but as I need quite of a quiet "me time" to recover,&nbsp; I really don't know anymore. <br />You say&nbsp; "Not many people have a richer ""inner life"" than I do and I can live too much inside my head". It is also true to me including analysing everything--- and I feel&nbsp; generaly great doing that:-) but sometimes can&nbsp; feel exhausting!:-(<br />I am&nbsp; many times&nbsp;interested in the "why"-s too and am certainly scraping deeper when I really want (after all, that's what am doing here on your thread, too-:-)) - but&nbsp; when it&nbsp; comes to&nbsp; simply fashion and other creative things- my focus is on&nbsp; the "what"s and&nbsp;"how"s as am a very&nbsp; very visual person, too.&nbsp;<br />BTW, I am not of a native English-but I know 3 other languages and&nbsp; we use the "o" for introvert and extrovert, too.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1900993 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 12:04:13 +0000 gryffin 1900993@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brooklyn - same here, I'd be wanting you for a bestie!!&nbsp; The lines of your clothing are very streamlined and elegant, there is always a bit of toughness usually in the&nbsp;line, perfect fit&nbsp;and softness in color/pattern and pattern mixing/those dark florals and hair- it's the yin/yang drama and perfect balance where you create the tension.&nbsp; I always am thinking, how does she do that!!!&nbsp; Usually accessorized by the fabulous Miss B.&nbsp; There is soooo much I'd love to talk to you about!!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1900992 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 11:55:31 +0000 Brooklyn 1900992@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Gryffin, you are so amazing. If you lived in Australia I’d like to have you over for dinner and deep and meaningful conversation Very small group of course. Large group dinners and parties are overrated!<br /> I really enjoyed reading this thread.<br /> FWIW, I don’t know how it applies to me. I am an introvert, but enjoy bold patterns, accessories and pattern mixing. Not so much the bright colours.<br /> I think I identify more with the clothes as armour concept rather than the clothes as restorative niche.<br /> But what fun!<br /> On a tangent, virtually all of my friends, aside from my husband, are extroverts. They love big gatherings (the more the merrier). I always find myself negotiating for the odd intimate gathering, which I enjoy much more. I need them to read that book! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1900988 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 11:06:56 +0000 gryffin 1900988@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Windchime - I can see how the action of funding the perfect piece can be restorative and invigorating. I can get that feeling small speciality stores where I am not overwhelmed by the abundance too.<br /> Shevia - yes we create ourselves, our "gui " through our wardrobes. The public persona or I'm humming jeckle and hyde's "it's all a facade" but important because we know others will act and respond to that image. I love your hair and outfits. You and they are interesting and uniquely you. I would bet others are intrigued and attracted to you individuality and that your wardrobe and fab hair do a lot of work for you.<br /> Jenni - I googled earlier since I was spelling "extro" but others were using "extra". I saw it both ways. I'd need to research too to see what is correct. I chose the predominant use on the forum spelling. But if you look at my responses you'll see where I noticed and changed spelling. Can you let me know what is correct if you find out? I will check "quiet" and see what SC uses also. I'm so sorry about the bullying. I was bullied as a child. I'm glad you were able to leave a toxic environment. I like the image is "shadow " self. None of us should try and fit in a box. We are fluid and complex. It's understanding the paradoxes that helps me sort things out.<br /> Jussie - agreed. What a rich conversation!! Delightful and food for much thought!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1900975 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 09:34:12 +0000 jussie 1900975@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Jenni NZ: you make some very interesting points! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1900972 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 09:21:07 +0000 Jenni NZ 1900972@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This thread is intriguing.<br /> First, and kind of off topic, I believe the correct spelling to be "extrovert" and "introvert" with an "o" not an "a". But in Myers-Briggs, the spellings do have an "a", because I believe the meaning is slightly different. I would have to research this more. Anyone who knows please weigh in.<br /> Secondly, I own and love the book "Quiet" and have read it twice. I have always come out as ESFJ on Myers-Briggs or as a Sanguine on other personality tests. But since the difficult bullying of 10 years ago which caused us to leave our church ( and faith) behind, I have needed a lot more time to myself even although I am still energised by people. A good friend of ours who is an Anglican minister( one of the only ministers we are still friends with, he was a friend first for about 38 years) talked about Jungian psychology and one's "shadow side", saying that one may need the opposite of one's usual in order to replenish oneself. So I read the book eagerly to see if it had anything like that in it. And maybe the stuff about "restorative niche" was the closest.<br /> As far as clothing, hmmm, not sure. I definitely have a bit of "SAD" ( seasonal affective disorder) and am not looking forward to NZ's Daylight Saving ending at Easter. I do wear more somber clothes in winter often but some days feel like brights still so still have some. In summer I feel like brights a lot more. So how does that relate to my personality?<br /> And I'd like to challenge Lisap and Suz! Just because you might like to have your doctor dress as a "Professional Princess of Darkness" like Gryffin, why should it make a difference if your doctor dressed with some kooky sandals and earrings and bright colours like me?! I'm sure I can be just as professional like that?!<br /> Finally, is it consistent with my personality that my use of my restorative niche, alone, is actually interacting with all of you? Maybe it's still social after all... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothing-as-restorative-niche/page/3#post-1900940 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 04:35:45 +0000 Jaime 1900940@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh my goodness, this thread reminds me of my third grade class that voted me both quietest and most talkative. In a class of about 25!&nbsp;<br />I am a true introvert who loves cities, and people watching, yet hates parades and being crushed. As was said "consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds". It is not that I cannot handle or enjoy groups, but it does completely exhaust me - I need a lot of time to process all the flying emotions that I pick up.<br />In answer to your question Gryffin, I absolutely love creating outfits and thinking about clothes, and enjoy designing my image. At the same time I am aware that as a 51 year old women working with lots of younger people, my image matters. </p>