https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 29 Apr 2026 06:48:21 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1565218 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 14:25:08 +0000 Stephanie 1565218@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Agreed!! Haha, that will probably happen to me...I spend all this time wishing for a center gore that lies flat only to finally find it and have it be uncomfortable. Ha! Trust me...after all my research and talk about it on this thread you'll definitely be hearing from me if I find "the one" haha. Thanks again </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1565211 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 14:20:33 +0000 Ginger 1565211@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You've got a plan! I like it! Yeah, when the cup is too big and the gore still doesn't tack, it sounds like simply the bra, or all bras. Bummer. But honestly, mine are SO flat that it's almost uncomfortable. Odd, but true. Keep on for the goal - support and shape, whatever form that will take. The ones you're trying sound really good. Here's hoping! Good luck!!! :D</p> <p>I'm SO glad to be helpful! The internet can be such a wonderful place. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1565187 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 14:03:01 +0000 Stephanie 1565187@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ginger, I can't thank you enough for sending me those links yesterday. I went through a TON of articles on Bras I Hate last night for assessing my shape, and also how to determine proper cup size. I also did some lengthy research on bratabase and ordered styles based on my shape in several sizes. I'm thankful I have at least nailed down the fact that a 30 band works for me...it's not much but it is a start!</p> <p>I actually ordered quite a few plunge styles last night to try. I first<br /> tried the Freya Deco Plunge (a few weeks ago) but the shape wasn't<br /> right. I'm giving it another go with the Panache Porcelain Plunge, Cleo Neve Plunge and also ordered a Fantasie balconette tshirt bra to try. Keep your fingers crossed for me! </p> <p>I'm coming to terms with the center gore issue, especially since it didn't lie flat when I tried a bra in a proper band size but too big of cup. I did see her recommendations on bending the wires -- I've bookmarked the page to come back to if I find a bra that fits but needs some underwire adjustment. Underwire discomfort is another problem I face, but can live with if the fit is at least good.</p> <p>Seriously, I can't thank you enough for the info you have provided me. It is SO helpful. And good to know I'm not alone in this issue. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1565155 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 12:46:10 +0000 Ginger 1565155@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Good luck, Stephanie! It sounds like you've made a really good start. And even if you're not finding anything yet, at least you're crossing off what <i>doesn't</i> seem to work. And I totally understand not wanting to spend a lot of time in person, especially when the sizes aren't available; professional fittings aren't always reliable, and they'll naturally want to fit you into what they have. But mostly for me, I prefer to shop online and return as necessary instead of spending a lot of time and gas driving long distances. Also, I took front and profile pictures of what I tried on that wasn't immediately a no-go. It helped me train my eye and figure out what look I wanted to go for. I also suddenly started noticing how old bras I thought were okay really didn't fit right.</p> <p>Have you tried any balconette plunge styles? Ironically they seem to work well for me, and I'm situated pretty close together so the gore can be problematic. The plunge gives me enough room where I need it. I think Bras I Hate discusses some of this. Sometimes carefully bending the wires so they bend around your ribs better can help, too. If the cup size is right, the shape is good and supportive, and the band size is comfortable, the gore being flat may just be a recommendation that doesn't happen to suit your particular body.</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1565135 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 10:32:10 +0000 Stephanie 1565135@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Aida</b> - I live in flats! I am seriously stalking those red halogen flats and hoping they come back in my size. I like what you said about starting with a formula - I know skinny jeans and a tee with flats works for me, and dresses too. But to switch things up, I want to try more drapey looks to keep the same idea but stray from my comfort zone at the same time. I'm glad to hear your thoughts about workwear vs casual wear too. This is a problem I have! I neglect the casual stuff and always favor workwear, then am forced to try and make "work" clothes work on the weekend. Sometimes it's okay, sometimes I feel that nothing to wear feeling. I hope you enjoy the Gap joggers!! I am so tempted to purchase :)</p> <p><b>Brooklyn</b> - I have been eyeing that burgundy jacket! I love how it's a little edgy…I may have to pop in to Express soon for a try on. Although it's still in the 80s here so I may be jumping the gun. Thanks for sharing your finds!</p> <p><b>Bijou</b> - I totally agree on the fitting. I know I'm definitely a less common size, and the Nordstrom in my area recently closed. I did research and find a small bra boutique in the Orlando area, yet their selection looks pretty tiny. It may be worth the drive anyway just to get a professional fitting and try on.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Maneera</b> - Oh how I wish it was that easy! A year ago I would have been able to just pop into Nordstroms or Aerie and try on, but both have since closed. I'm going to do some research into other dept stores to see who carries smaller band sizes and maybe I can get to the mall soon to try. If not…I guess I'll just have to cross my fingers and hope buy/return ends soon!</p> <p><b>Lyn</b> - It is so comforting to know I'm not the only one with this problem! I've tried on many bras and many sizes and have never had a center gore lie flat. The switch to a smaller 32DD has been pretty good, but I think I could go up in cup. I ordered a bunch of bras in both 30DDD and 30DDDD/F to try. I have tried a few in 30DDD and still needed more room in the cups, but am trying it anyway in some brands I haven't experimented with. It doesn't help that everyone's size is different, and my eyes start to go cross with all the sizing conversions! Thanks for the support </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1565129 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 10:08:45 +0000 lyn67 1565129@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>My sympaties for the center gore never laying flat on your chest. I am a much bigger &nbsp;size (eventually settled on 36DD) but no matter the most expensive &nbsp;brands, the sizes (on band or cup) up or down, gore is never laying on my chest either-think it has to do with my less then perfect posture... Oh well, &nbsp;I learned to live with that small imperfection...:-) </p> <p>ETA. Agree with Elizabeth who said 28DDDD is rather an 30DDD!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1565047 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 02:27:28 +0000 Maneera 1565047@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Love your style musings and the inspiration photos. I can so see you pulling off all those outfits with panache! </p> <p>I read about your bra-finding journey and you have my sympathies. Keep at it....I find trying bras in person less frustrating. Maybe spend a Saturday afternoon finding the right bra? A mall where several brands are available together is often the best bet. I hate the buy/return cycle myself! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1565044 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 02:20:16 +0000 Bijou 1565044@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have to echo others comments that getting properly fitted for a bra is well worth the investment.&nbsp; I find I need a refitting every few years as different brands can be smaller than others and different cuts of bras work better than others. I also love your style direction and colour palate.&nbsp; The cargo pants look like a great alternative to skinny jeans and a striped dress would be a nice alternative from the jeans and t-shirt combination. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1565036 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 02:01:49 +0000 Brooklyn 1565036@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like your style photos a lot. I really like burgundy and olive too so I am attaching a couple of my "finds", which I have picked up from posts by Angie and other members. Looking at the finds of members can help with creating a style wish list. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1565007 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 01:08:54 +0000 Aida 1565007@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yeah it takes a while to find something that fits decently, let alone well &gt;&lt; It'll be worth it eventually!</p> <p>Re casual style: All the finds and outfits you posted look good and would fit a relaxed, girly, somewhat practical casual style (esp. with flats). I find those tee dresses remarkably difficult, but that could just be me since I find dresses as a whole difficult heh. I think starting from a formula you know you like and expanding from there is a great idea, because you can hone in your casual preferences much more easily that way.</p> <p>Re casual style approach: For myself I decided to use my casual style to narrow down my eclectic tastes. So I moved from workwear to casual the things that are still urban but a little more rugged, rustic, practical; and then to skew it more towards what my husband likes, simpler and more fitted. It's been really nice having the separation (work feels more cohesive now), and it really helped me feel more OK with purchasing "weekend" wear that differs from my "work" wear since the whole lot falls into smart-casual/casual anyway.</p> <p>(PS Totally just ordered those olive joggers after seeing your Find, I'm such a sucker for Tencel!) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564976 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 00:36:54 +0000 Stephanie 1564976@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Aida - I have that first Simone Perele in my shopping bag right now at Bare Necessities. I haven't tried that brand yet and am hoping it's a fit. I'm ordering a few others in various sizes to try also. Ugh - it is frustrating being in the buy/return cycle but I am determined to find something that works! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564948 Wed, 30 Sep 2015 00:06:32 +0000 Aida 1564948@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You could also try a 30 from brand that runs small like Simone Perle. I have the two below, and the 30 fits more like a 29. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564909 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 22:45:44 +0000 Stephanie 1564909@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>LavenderMoon </b>- me too! Keeping my eyes out for good deals and sizes to come back in stock :)</p> <p><i><b></b></i><b>Elizabeth</b> - Ugh - this bra journey has been a lesson in patience! I have tried Wacaol in 30DDD and while the band felt good, the cups didn't give quite enough support. 28 bands are definitely too tight, so I'm confident in the 30. I received a 30H (5D) in the mail today from Chantelle and discovered the cups to be WAY too big (like up in my armpit big!) Yet the center gore still didn't lie flat. I'm guessing this means my breasts may be a little too close together to have a center gore ever lie flat…or perhaps I need to experiment with different shapes. I think I'm going to try some other brands in both 30DDD and 30DDDD. Also, I LOVE the tee you have suggested! It's exactly the kind of thing I'm looking for.</p> <p><b>smittie</b>&nbsp;<b></b>- Definitely! I have a ton of colorful/statement jewelry in a variety of colors, and also have several bags of varying sizes and color/pattern. But I have been really thinking about adding a nice black tote or mid size bag to my collection.</p> <p><b>Ginger - </b>I am&nbsp;<b></b>devouring the links you have sent already! I tried one style in the 28 band from Cleo by Panache and just couldn't get it right. I tried it in a 30 band instead, but accidentally way overestimated the cups. I'm thinking of trying it in 30F to see if that's a better fit. I'm coming to terms with the fact that maybe the center gore of a bra just won't ever lay flat on me due to my shape. In the bras I recently ordered where the band was perfect but cups too big, I still didn't have the center gore flush on my chest. Freya is a brand I have not tried yet, so I may order some of those. I have tried/returned everything so far…it's exhausting! But I think I may just need to suck it up and place a big order with a variety of styles/sizes and be done with it. Thanks SO much for all of the incredibly helpful information.</p> <p><b>Sally&nbsp;</b>- Thanks for the moral support at least I agree on the handbags! I have a great size burgundy one, as well as a cognac Michael Kors which I love. But I think black may be the next purchase…maybe a tote. Thanks so much for the suggestion on the forum members as well, I'm going to go look them up! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564862 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 20:25:55 +0000 Sal 1564862@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Getting the right bra is so important - especially for bustier women! &nbsp;Everything sits better and is more comfortable. &nbsp;No brand advice for you being here in NZ but good luck!!</p> <p>I love the items you have chosen and the pictures. &nbsp;Very classy, modern, fresh and fun. &nbsp;To my mind the accessories and hair-do make some of the looks, it is polished and fun. &nbsp;You will need a big handbag!!</p> <p>A couple of the forum members whose WIW you may enjoy are JackieC and Toronto Girl. &nbsp;I haven't seen either of them post for a wee while but they have that lovely polished edge that you seem to like. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564844 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 19:49:25 +0000 Ginger 1564844@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm about a 30F/30FF. Underbust 29.5. 30s are borderline too tight, but 32 definitely too snug. I think that in the small band sizes, ordering as close as possible to the actual measurement instead of subtracting is probably a better approach.</p> <p>That out of the way, I totally understand where you're coming from! I went from 30DD to 30FF and it was wonderful. I started at <a href="http://brasihate.blogspot.com/p/blog-page.html" rel="nofollow">http://brasihate.blogspot.com/p/blog-page.html</a>, in the "find your shape" section. That was extremely helpful in figuring out why I didn't like my look in t-shirt bras, and also why the balconette that gives the most support (key: vertical seams) was ridiculously small in the only sizes available in stores.</p> <p>Based on that guidance and the consistent results of her recommended sizing links, I ordered a lot of different bras that had the right cut from different makers from HerRoom. It's not free returns - but bras aren't heavy or bulky and it was totally worth it. The whole first order went back because I underestimated the cup size, but after that I got it. It may not be 100% absolutely critical that the gore be flat on your chest; but you do want to make sure you don't get overspill in the profile view.</p> <p>Now, although I bought several $60 bras up front, I've accumulated duplicates, or the same models in different fabrics, by searching ebay. Bratabase is another source for trading or re-selling bras that don't work quite right. FWIW, I like both Freya and Cleo by Panache.</p> <p>Hope that helps! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564819 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 18:40:26 +0000 Anonymous 1564819@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love the simplicity of the looks you've posted.<br />It seems like the clothes are more of a backdrop for nice accessories. I see a lot of great bags, chunky watches, and sunglasses. Do you already have these things? I didn't see you mention them in your post. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564812 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 18:25:29 +0000 Kamya 1564812@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Elizabeth P</b> Just love the picture you've posted..Awesome combo!I just wish I was a blonde.But I'm an Indian and a 13 year old.<br />Do you think this look is fit for summer or spring?Do let me know! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564799 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 17:59:34 +0000 Elizabeth P 1564799@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I question your bra size... if you are a 28DDDD, then I think you'd be a 30 DDD.&nbsp; If you go up in one, you generally go down in the other.&nbsp; Do you live somewhere that you can get a fitting and try on various styles?&nbsp; It's a great idea to do this right... I got measured and "invested" a year ago, and it really does make a difference!</p> <p>I love what you have posted re your personal style direction.&nbsp; You might want to check out the Stem tees at Nordstrom - they have a beautiful drape, I though of them as soon as I saw your photos.</p> <p>Keep sharing!&nbsp; A lot of us love posts like this </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564794 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 17:56:46 +0000 Anonymous 1564794@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great picks.&nbsp; I approve of anything striped!&nbsp; That dress is definitely something I'd love to have in my closet.&nbsp; I hope they all find their way to yours! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564783 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 17:35:42 +0000 Alassë 1564783@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Always a pleasure reading a forum member's ruminations. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564779 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 17:29:24 +0000 Stephanie 1564779@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks Tracey! I'm hoping the looser band will be better. I have bras in 32 bands right now and they are just too loose. </p> <p>Sara, you and me both! Casual has always been a struggle for me. I love the outfits you have posted </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564769 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 16:59:40 +0000 Sara L. 1564769@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think you're on the right track.&nbsp; I struggled with my casual style for a long time. I think it's gotten&nbsp;better recently with YLF's help. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564765 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 16:44:54 +0000 TraceyLiz65 1564765@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Just wanted to say, I went up a band size for comfort and it really did help. I like your wish list of items for casual. The olive pants are great as is the striped Peplum. Tshirt dresses are a wonderful casual option. Looks like a great start. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/defining-fall-casual-goals#post-1564757 Tue, 29 Sep 2015 16:26:41 +0000 Stephanie 1564757@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm feeling inspired by <b>Word Lily's</b> recent Style Statement and feeling introspective. This lead to me to think on my goals and descriptors for the casual side of my wardrobe, which is basically going to get constructed from scratch. I hope you all will help me along this journey! :)</p> <p>Images 1-4 are casual looks I love. Effortless, feminine, polished and comfortable are all words that come to mind. I'd love to add a touch of creative/artsy to my look. In my free time, I enjoy reading/writing and also am a freelance photographer. This is a side of me that I want to bring out through fashion, but don't know where to start.</p> <p>Color palette: Olive, black, burgundy, ivory, stripe, leopard/red accents</p> <p>My weekend uniform is skinny jeans + tee + fun accessories and shoes to make things interesting. Skinny jeans are my denim comfort zone but I do really want to branch out. I'm contemplating BF jeans or relaxed skinnies for a more casual outfit to run errands in...but denim whiskers are so prevalent on this style and do NOTHING for my wider hips. </p> <p>I have also been on the lookout for a relaxed striped tshirt dress like the one in image #3. I kind of like the striped orange/oatmeal/ivory tshirt dress in my finds below, but it's sold out in my size.</p> <p>I am also on the struggle bus when it comes to bras. When I measure myself, I come out as a 28DDDD. Yikes. I tried some bras from bare necessities but like always, have never been able to find a bra in which the center gore lies flat on my chest. The 28 band was also uncomfortable, so I'm going to experiment with 30s. Does anyone else have this problem? I just ordered a chantelle bra in 30H to try and have my fingers crossed. This is a top priority purchase for me so I'm willing to invest in quality/fit.</p> <p>The red pointy toe Halogen flats are on my wishlist. They're sold out in size 7 right now and will not be restocked. Fingers crossed for a return!</p> <p>Other items I'm thinking: Drapey cotton tees, casual stripe tee, burgundy jacket (lightweight, don't need much warmth in FL) and maybe some olive pants. A wrap dress that can function for business casual or a nicer date night would be good too.</p> <p>This is kind of a mumbo jumbo...just wanted to share my thoughts and hope for some feedback. I'd love to hear about your approach to casual style and how you defined it for yourself...this is the one part of my wardrobe I feel is really "blah" and doesn't reflect me. </p>