https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sun, 03 May 2026 12:36:31 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule/page/2#post-265972 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 10:56:23 +0000 Ornella 265972@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Michelle, with running a risk of sounding very corny and not contributing to your dilemma in a constructive way, I really only chime in to say you are an inspiration. Your no-nonsense deconstruction of a problem you are facing, your openness about some very personal issues, your common sense in approaching the period you know will be challenging, all make me truly admire you.</p> <p>I find that family relationships are the trickiest one to manage, whether they are harmonious in nature or not. There is something in some family members assuming they can cross some boundaries without thinking twice - and those they would never cross with the people they are not related to! As if family ties give them right to invade our personal space whichever way they feel like - be it through comments or actions. Very often it's us who actually let them do that and that needs rethinking and working on.</p> <p>Regarding the upcoming holidays, my view is that you've taken the right approach, brilliant one in fact. Bullet-proof yourself as much as possible in advance and try to take it easy. There is one thing to keep in mind - this is all about accepting each other and who is the real grown-up in the situation you've shared. We, being children of our parents, don't always turn out as they'd imagined, be it with what we look like, which partners we choose, what jobs we do or what clothes we wear, but that is not our problem. We live our lives, not the projections of our parents' ideas what our lives and choices should be! We evolve - mentally, intellectually, style-wise - all that at our own pace, which they may or may not be able to follow or understand. And that's all fine. By accepting your mother as the person who is prone to bringing you down and her not being able to help herself in doing so, you are indeed the more mature one in that situation. I know once you are in the very midst of that emotionally draining situation, you probably feel the deepest sadness amongst other things, but perhaps try to look at it from another angle. She is the one who needs more emotional nurturing than you do and next time she says something that stings you, just think of that. She can't help herself. You can and you do. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule/page/2#post-265961 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 09:36:30 +0000 Scarlet 265961@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think others have correctly deconstructed your mother's taste. I completely agree with Stringy. I don't really care for the suit that she picked out for you, but it gives me the idea that blazers are probably a good approach? Also I hope you know that the top in photo 5 she didn't like is wildly flattering to my eye.</p> <p>Someone should start a thread on mother-daughter fashion conflicts and we could all get some therapy. sigh. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule/page/2#post-265953 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 09:19:05 +0000 Theresa 265953@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh Michelle, I just want to send you some massive hugs and let you know that I am thinking of you at this challenging time. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule/page/2#post-265949 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 08:42:25 +0000 stringy 265949@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sometimes at YLF we talk about having to get used to new trends, because at first it's so unusual. Eventually we see other people wearing the new style and get used to it. I think your mother has her eyes tuned to a very classic and ladylike time in fashion. She doesn't seem to believe in the idea of her daughter looking a little bit sexy. </p> <p>Her sense of what colors suit you is pretty good. You wear classic outfits well, so I'd stick to those for your family-capsule. If I were packing your bags, I'd include lots of classic black pants and skirts, with jewel-toned tops in simple shapes, and your beautiful pearls. </p> <p>Does she wear very classic outfits? Maybe she can't understand why anyone would dress differently than she does. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule/page/2#post-265907 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 05:37:37 +0000 Lisa 265907@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Not looking at other responses, it appears classic simple detailed clothing are mom favorites while trendy items are not well received. It would appear classic basics with little detail and accessories are the way to go for family gatherings if their opinions are going to dictate your outfits. Personally I like all of them but I am ok with more fashion forward looks on lovely you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265897 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 05:24:19 +0000 Kyle 265897@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>These mother-child relationships are so complex. When we want the "best" for our children (based on our own definition of best) and try to "help" we can be so critical and hurtful instead. I'm sorry for that, Michelle, and think your holiday strategy is wise. Here's hoping that all goes according to plan and that you have a lovely, positive visit and some great holiday memories. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265885 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 04:59:52 +0000 Christie 265885@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, that dress in the second post is fantastic on you! I think your mom likes you in deep colors, especially cobalt.</p> <p>As for *why* she is so critical ... that is sad to me, since you look great in all of your favorites. But maybe she is still mothering you in the same role she always has, rather than as a mother to an adult daughter? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265729 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 20:47:33 +0000 Jonesy 265729@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I feel like I hope you can gain strength from everyone here who is rooting for you this holiday season! I agree with everyone else, and I think Vix, Kristen, et al. may be on to something with the sex appeal angle. Seems like conservative cuts, dark pants, and structured-but-yet-not-highlighting-your-bosom tops are the way to go. Good luck! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265670 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 18:41:09 +0000 AJ 265670@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Michelle, the capsule is a great idea. I think you look beautiful in all your posted outfits. I'm sorry you have this stress to deal.</p> <p>I'm not sure if anyone has mentioned this yet, but I think your mother prefers you in pants because it lengthens your legline and "seems" slimmer because there is a visual break down the middle. Does that make sense?</p> <p>I ditto everyone's advice about not emphasizing the girls and keeping on the conservative side.</p> <p>Will we be able to see your family capsule? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265569 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 15:55:54 +0000 celia 265569@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Michelle,I think it's a wonderful idea to build the capsule wardrobe.The less stress the better.<br /> I agree with everyone in the more classic pattern in your mother tastes for you. I woul also go with previous aproved items.More than that I would include her in the making of the outfits during your time with her.I know this sounds attention seeking but the truth is if she is involved in the process she won't be able to criticize after the dead is done.<br /> The main point here is that you're wearing things that belong in your usual wardrobe and that you love and look stylish in, you're just choosing the potencial less controvers items.<br /> Hugs. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265544 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 15:30:07 +0000 Queen Mum 265544@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think everyone has made some good observations here, so I won't repeat them, but just want to say I hope this year goes more smoothly. I'll be thinking of you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265542 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 15:26:32 +0000 Barbara 265542@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Michelle,you are fashionable and fab! I am sorry you have to live with some wardrobe drama, but you've come to the right place for advice.</p> <p>I agree with Laura, dress conservatively, but put your own touch on it with jewelry or a fun bag. Your black pencil skirt is perfect! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265477 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 13:17:06 +0000 lynn 265477@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Michelle,<br /> You are a lovely girl! Remember the love that you feel on YFL when you get less than full approval at home. And remember that moms have trouble letting go of feeling like they can say whatever comes to mind to their kids. I'm sure that she loves or she wouldn't bother trying to "fix" you. Those are her insecurities, not yours. Just love her as hard as you can and have your armor fastened tightly! You can do it! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265476 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 13:12:36 +0000 Laura 265476@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Michelle, I'd say err on the conservative side, stick with solids and that's the best you can do. Don't be surprised if she criticizes something she has liked before. Somehow I think this is less about the actual item of clothing and more about some sort of inner pain she feels, and clothing is just a superficial item that provides an outlet for her. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265470 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:46:20 +0000 Sveta 265470@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Michelle, hugs! I understand and support this decision to build a bullet-proof capsule to avoid confrontation.<br /> I think it is not much colors or patterns as cut and style. It looks to me that your mom is pretty conservative when it applies to your dressing and I don't think she is opposed to you looking sexy as long as it is very classic in style and slimming: your cobalt cocktail dress is a good example of a sexy but very classic dress and she likes it! So definitely no waist surrendering for you here!:-)<br /> I was wondering why she did not approve of the dress in #6 as it looks pretty classic style to me. However it is hard to see details in the black dress in the photo and asymmetrical skirt is definitely not a classic style. Is it a knit fabric? If so it may also have some cling factor which is not obvious in the photo. I think that woven fabrics are better bet for you in this case.<br /> BTW I feel she would approve your new black pencil skirt as it is a very classic piece so you may be able to build some lovely and bullet-proof outfits around it!<br /> In any case I hope you have a lovely time with your family over the holidays! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265464 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:07:26 +0000 crwilson 265464@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm sorry that you have to deal with this extra stress around the holidays; I really don't think that mothers are always aware of how hurtful the things they say can be. I try to avoid conflict too, especially if it's conflict that seems unresolvable, so I completely understand why you'd want to come up with a capsule that just avoids any strife. I can't help but think of Deborah Tannen's book "You're Wearing That? Understanding Mothers and Daughters in Conversation." It's about how mothers and daughters interpret the exact same conversation very differently - I found it really interesting when I read it years ago. Okay, going to quit being nerdy and turn to your wardrobe question...</p> <p>How long are you going to be with your mother over the holidays? How many outfits will you need and for what occasions? Depending on how long you stay, it may not be possible to wear only things that she's approved, but you could probably come close. Can you change small things about the outfit (like a different shirt with the same pants), or do you need completely new outfits for each day/event? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265461 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 11:54:14 +0000 Kristen 265461@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh, sweetie, I think you are wise to create a mom-proof capsule for your visit and cut down on the anxiety so you can enjoy your time together. My mother has been very critical of me in the past and that was my solution too.</p> <p>Seeing all of these together, I actually can see the pattern quite clearly: your mom does not seem to like anything that makes your chest stand out. The ombre pattern, the cut of the top that lovely turquoise dress, the lighter top of the tunic and the fitted belt right under -- all of that makes the girls the first thing one notices. Personally I don't think that emphasis is a bad thing -- I'm quite proud of my own girls, LOL -- but maybe your mom doesn't have the same reaction. </p> <p>I don't think it has to do with the colors as much as it has to do with where the eye focuses. So as you are trying on pieces to determine if they should be included, ask Corey a simple question: "Does this make you check out my rack?" If the answer is yes, save it for when you are home alone with just him. ;-D</p> <p>Good luck, and be strong! You look lovely, and she honestly does like some really flattering pieces that you own. So you do have plenty to choose from that you already own. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265444 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 07:11:14 +0000 Angie 265444@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Michelle, I think its very wise to build a bullet proof wardrobe capsule for Mum. You are not ready to set boundaries and that's just fine since that's what your instincts tell you. </p> <p>Mum likes you in more conservative clothing (the cobalt dress is an exception). Nothing flirty, revealing or fashion forward. Clean straight lines and in one saturated colour. Stay away from items which accentuate your lovely curves. </p> <p>Does that sound reasonable? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265439 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 06:58:09 +0000 Gaylene 265439@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>First of all, having met you in person, I have to say that your pictures don't do you justice. In person, you come across as a poised, confident, vibrant woman with a great sense of style. But I agree with you that arguing is not the greatest way to connect with family over the holidays. Even if you know you are right, you can end up feeling miserable.</p> <p>The "mother approved" outfits that you've shown do look pretty amazing. I can see why she likes them on you. To my eye, the commonality seems to be that your mother approves of anything that emphasizes your face, neck, and arms. The diagonal line on the black dress, the colour change on the ombre cardigan, and the draping on the bust in the turquoise dress tend to put the focus on other areas of your body--the bust, the area below the bust, and the waist. Obviously your mother feels that these areas should not be emphasized. Keep the focus on your face and shoulders by wearing your pearls and scarves, don't wear anything that emphasizes or fits too closely on the middle or lower body, and she'll be probably be happy. </p> <p>But, for the rest of the world, know that your options are much, much broader. Wear that sexy black dress, rock those boots, and ditch that sad little pant suit. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265411 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 05:08:33 +0000 qfbrenda 265411@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm with Mary... I would wear something she has complimented in the past. And I would be ready with a quick speech in case she attacks anyway. She seems to just like being critical for the sake of being critical. I'm sorry you have to deal with this. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265409 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 05:05:46 +0000 Katiepea 265409@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I haven't read what the others have said in order to provide my independent thoughts. Apologies if I'm simply repeating what everybody else has already said! </p> <p>When wearing separates, my thoughts are that it appears to me that your mother seems to like black, classic (erring on conservative) bottoms coupled with rich colours up top. From your pictures, she appears to like v or scoop tops which emphasise your very pretty neckline, but she doesn't like clothes which are super clingy or tight. She likes clothes which are not clingy around the tummy area. I'd add that anything that could be construed as being faddish (I'm going to include outfits #5 and #7 in this category) is out. </p> <p>I hope that maybe I've provided something useful here Michelle. I'll be thinking of you! x </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265402 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 04:57:57 +0000 MsMary 265402@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This may seem WAY too simplistic, but is it possible to only wear outfits in your mom's presence that she has already seen and liked? Then if she gives you a hard time (which, sad to say, is possible because i don't think this is about the clothes at all -- it seems much more like it's about some crazy need she has to undermine your confidence), you can laugh and say "Wow, that's crazy because I wore this outfit specifically because you said you loved it last time!"</p> <p>What do you think of that option?</p> <p>Oh, and if you have to repeat, then repeat. Again, if she gives you a hard time about it just say "I know you like this and I decided I'd rather repeat something you like than try something new and risk having you attack me for wearing something you don't like." </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265394 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 04:45:47 +0000 mindy 265394@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is my first post on my first forum ever. I am sorry to hear about your dilemma Michelle. I have to agree with what a lot of others already said, both in regard to fashion and family advice! I can't imagine wearing anything that would cause conflict in my family. It is unfortunate that you have to worry about that over the holidays. I hope it doesn't cause you undue stress and you enjoy your time with family.</p> <p>As far as the outfits, I love the cobalt dress in #1. I'm not sure if you would be comfortable with this but I would add some black tights and- maybe this would be too trendy or sexy for your mom- black boots!</p> <p>I think the cardigan in #3 is pretty especially if you add a silky scarf for a dressy look or a woolish scarf for a more casual look. I like the idea of unbuttoning it - if you aren't comfortable unbuttoning it completely maybe just unbutton the bottom one or two buttons. I don't know why but this always seems to make a cardigan look better to me.</p> <p>I like the blue sweater too with the sparkly detail as well as the thoughts on adding sparkly accessories.</p> <p>I do have to agree with mom on #6 and #7. I think the other colors and styles look better on you!</p> <p>Best wishes for a happy holiday! Remember you're never fully dressed without a smile! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265392 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 04:39:33 +0000 Anonymous 265392@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It never fails to amaze me that one is often always a little child to the parents and older relatives, even if you are 60's and they are 80's, someone who needs their advice. My mom and I used to clash over my wardrobe too, even as a middle aged adult. She wanted to see me in girly pink, pastels and ruffles. I look awful in pastels and puffy sleeves!<br /> I think Vix may be on to something with the idea of looking sexy. Before reading the replies I felt that the acceptable items had a bit more structure and possibly weightier fabrics. It looks like she doesn't like the narrowest part of the outfit right under your bustline where it shows off your assets (#5 &amp; #8), but high waist seems ok as in both blue dresses and the acceptable print top. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265377 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 04:01:50 +0000 Vix 265377@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well I've weighed in on the boundary-setting thing before, and I know I KNOW it's easier said than done!</p> <p>So this time I'll just stick to the clothes. ;)</p> <p>It took me a minute to puzzle out why so many things in Group 2 were "losers," since aside from the ombre sweater (sorry! hides ya IMO!) they all seem to play up your many assets. </p> <p>But the proverbial penny clanged...it's pretty clear -- she doesn't like you in anything *remotely* sexy (even though it's "classy sexy").</p> <p>And let's face it, the print of that print/black top highlights your perfectly lifted and separated bosom, that shirred black dress has major va with its voom, and the turquoise dress is classic bombshell. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265373 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 03:52:46 +0000 Michelle 265373@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Aida, I think you really hit on something key here...I believe she is ashamed of my weight, and I think you're quite right to think she prefers me in outfits that don't make me stand out, or minimize my size, or however she chooses to think about it. We've discussed this at length before, and the conversations are always dreadful and draining, but theres never much fundamental change..I just hate conflict so much that I'd rather oblige to some degree, and I really do like most of the outfits I've posted here (suit notwithstanding). I would be most reluctant to wear a statement necklace in outfit no. 2 because of the chain detail around the top, and the cardigan in no. 3 would feel wrong ti me with a sparkly belt or dressy top I included this because casual clothes will be a key part of this capsule, based on there they live).<br /> Velma: You are obviously made of tougher stuff than me, and I admire that tremendously. Unfortunately I have never been able to shrug off her comments. We are quite close, and her opinion does matter to me. I share your puzzlement over the black dress in no. 6. She does like me in black quite a b it, and it's one of her personal favourite colours, so I don't think that's it. I think her issue there has to do with the asymmetrical skirt -- that's never been a look she got behind. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265365 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 03:29:34 +0000 Velma 265365@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, Michelle--this sounds awfully difficult for you. I am sure you have already tried talking with her about how all of this criticism makes you feel . . .</p> <p>I'd be inclined to say that you should wear things that YOU love, and stop worrying about the reaction. I've been known to cut off my own mom's commentary--and I am a lot older than you are, so I've had some time to hone these techniques!--by laughing at myself: "I know! Isn't this crazy! I just love really bright green" (or whatever).</p> <p>I am honestly stumped by her disapproval of dress #6. It is so pretty on you and also has a similar neckline and cut to other items she does like. Is it possible that she dislikes black on you--perhaps finds it too "mature" or sophisticated? I certainly don't agree with her, but it is all I can think of as an explanation.</p> <p>Well, she clearly likes you in blue and purple jewel tones. I agree that these shades are beautiful on you. Do you have blue eyes?</p> <p>Hang in there, Michelle!! And don't let this battle spoil your holiday. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265364 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 03:26:42 +0000 Michelle 265364@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Anna: me too! :)<br /> Mo: Hehe, I share your confusion.<br /> Khris: Good eye, thanks for spotting the pattern. I know she likes me in turquoise a lot, though. She didn't like the style of the turquoise dress, but praised the colour warmly and has frequently named it as among my best colours. In that, her colour analysis of me agrees entirely with the YLF perspective.<br /> Kari: Interesting thought about not liking patterns...She does like some patterned tops, like this one, but you may be on to something. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265363 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 03:26:28 +0000 Aida 265363@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Michelle, I feel like the pieces your mom OKed are far more "safe" than the ones you love that she didn't. Maybe she has a hard time with you taking fashion risks as a larger gal and feels that you need to "blend" (that's the vibe I get from all of the pieces you posted that she likes) instead of stand out, though if true I think it's is an unfortunate way of thinking.</p> <p>I like the idea of creating a capsule for these family occasions, especially if the clothing is causing you undue stress (no fun!). Both blue dresses are beautiful, but I feel like the others fall a little flat of your usual stylishness as shown; however, a lovely pair of shoes and some showy accessories could spruce them up nicely (except for the suit, I'm glad that's out as an option ) and hopefully meet everyone's approval.</p> <p>I'd love to see a statement necklace with #2, and maybe some shiny/sparkly shoes with #3. #4 is trickier, because I'd love to see a sparkly/fun belt but if your mom didn't like #5 (which I LOVE and looks wonderful on you!) that probably won't do. How about a silky/shiny top with the cardigan partially buttoned up?</p> <p>I hope you have a great holiday with as little stress as possible!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/difficult-project-developing-a-family-wardrobe-capsule#post-265362 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 03:21:58 +0000 Kari 265362@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Michelle, I wish we could all be there to boost your confidence. What a bummer that going home for the holidays is so stressful. Just an idea - can you save some of your favorite YLF comments about your outfits or about your style on a laptop or something so that if you are hit with uncomplimentary remarks or lose your confidence, that you can remind yourself of how fab, beautiful, and polished we all think you are?</p> <p>I'm sorry that your mom wasn't crazy about #5 and 6, because I think you look completely stunning in both, and #5 especially seems VERY slimming. I really don't see anything about the group of photos #5-8 that is unflattering to your figure.</p> <p>It looks like your mom is more a fan of solids than patterns (either one uniform color, like a dress, throughout your entire body or two dark colors on the top &amp; bottom, like #2 and #3 from the original post.) I would guess that she would like seeing you in similarly saturated colors - not a high-contrast outfit such as a light top &amp; a dark colored skirt together. Maybe you can use brighter colors in your accessories instead.<br /> It also appears that she is more comfortable with or apt to approve of fully classic casual outfits (perhaps not skinny jeans or tunic length tops, or adventurous silhouettes like the turquoise cocktail dress.)<br /> I hope that this helps you some, Michelle. Big, big hugs to you. </p>