https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 25 Apr 2026 10:08:20 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2191017 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 17:03:16 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2191017@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Bijou, I love that you have a backup Hello Kitty T-shirt. Hello Kitty was a favorite of my son’s when he was little; we’ve hung onto his comforter as guest bedding. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190992 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 15:17:51 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2190992@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Cat2, good, because I didn’t feel criticized. I’m just exploring differences, and assume others here are helping me out and/or exploring differences themselves. It’s all good </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190991 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 15:17:06 +0000 cat2 2190991@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am not being critical about having a maximal style or loving ornamentation, just pointing out that it is a perfectly valid style decision actively avoid the variety you seek. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190981 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 14:52:53 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2190981@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Cat2, what you said about maximalism sums up one of the main things I’ve learned through this thread. I’ve learned from YLF that my tastes are pretty maximalist. But I do get classic cuts, and avoid excessive ornamentation (although “excessive” is in the eye of the beholder). As Zaoebi (I think, but too lazy to page back through on my phone) commented, adding details is one way to cover for poor quality. All that aside, this thread has shown me that I’d much rather have several similar tops than multiples of the same one. Where some see a plain white top as a reason to duplicate, I see it as a reason to variegate. (The other main thing I’ve learned is how some people define a love of fashion differently from me.) Learning how others see stuff here often shows me something about myself—this is no exception. Sorry you felt criticized—was absolutely not intended. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190980 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 14:42:13 +0000 cat2 2190980@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>FI, if one has a consistent style and palette and is fussy about getting the right fit then one filters the available options differently. If you have French Girl style then most offerings in a store won’t fit your style and you will snap up those that do. So Angie’s periodic posts about striped tops are catnip for those with that style, who are likely to snap up a couple of the tops in different colors if they happen to be from a retailer who makes products that consistently fit that shopper. Similarly, if you have a preppy style, you will be looking for sweaters with a couple of classic cuts, from retailers who get that lack of excessive ornamentation is a good thing, and are likely to duplicate. It’s only if you have a maximalist style that you want everything to have individual impact. So instead of being sort of critical of the duplicators, recognize they may have very different style goals. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190972 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 14:19:16 +0000 Bijou 2190972@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>A pure duplicate (exact same thing) is four items bought duplicate to keep one pristine when the other was worn out.</p> <p>1. Cotton shirt that I found at Uniqlo in Japan - I bought two, I am keeping one pristine, so that when shirt #1 wears out, I have backup. I loved the style and the colour is a perfect match for my bag (which I have thought I wish I'd duplicated the bag). I have had the bag and blouse for 3 or 4 years now - the blouse is very hard wearing and I have worn it so many times because I know that I have one in reserve. </p> <p>2. Favourite t-shirt - bought two because I am a bit of an Inari Fox fan and unique Japan find.</p> <p>3. Am on my second (first sweater has been worn out)&nbsp; pink Zara sweater.</p> <p>4. Have a back-up Hello Kitty t-shirt (also Uniqlo)</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190966 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 13:25:17 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2190966@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Good point, Anne. </p> <p>Bijou, do you also have exact duplicates? I’m thinking that many of the things for which you didn’t post finds might exist in your wardrobe in identical renditions. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190964 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 13:23:15 +0000 anne 2190964@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Bijou, this thread was really about multiples of the exact same outfit item. I wouldn't count your lovely dresses and jacket. That's what I was posting about. If I found a perfect for me Cue dress, getting it in a print could be attractive </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190937 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 11:54:41 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2190937@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks Bijou. Maybe my “lessons learned” above, about why I don’t duplicste, as well as comments from Anne and others, can help you understand the other side of the fence.<br /> The dresses &amp; jackets here are great. Still, I think I would see such a purchase as a special thing, and choose just one. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190933 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 11:39:34 +0000 Bijou 2190933@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am a duplicator through and through - so it is hard for me to understand why someone would not duplicate! </p> <p>For so many things, especially underwear, gear, shoes, tops, knitwear, jeans and handbags - I keep going back to the same brands and styles because I know they will work for me - but I have duplicates across all categories in my wardrobe - even dresses and jackets (which tend to be my statements which I have shown in Finds). I really love the ease of duplicated items in different colours because it makes coming up with different combinations easier. My favourite designers seem to repeat styles - so most duplicates are bought in different seasons and with the dresses, I had the black first and then a great colour or print was released. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190914 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 09:16:12 +0000 Adela 2190914@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><div>I'm late to this thread... My reasons for duplication are very simple. Since I find it hard to find products that would suit me (and there are several reasons for that: from my fussy and wide feet, to poor retail options where I live, specially for my shape and size, etc), I buy the ones I find, in duplicate or in multiple colors of the same item. I duplicate mostly in shoes (my favorite Camper Peu and Right, and Birkenstock Gizeh), jeans (I have a model that fits me fantastically and is very comfortable), regular T-shirts in white and dark blue, and underwear. Allways having a few pieces to rely on gives me a sense of security and the ability to experiment with other pieces such as statement necklaces, handbags and scarves. </div><div><div></div></div><div><div><div><div></div></div></div></div><div><div></div></div><div><div></div></div></p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190912 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 09:00:25 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2190912@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for the late replies! </p> <p>Gigi, that fits right in with my theory about duplicated items not being the “special” ones/I don’t duplicate because I like things with those details. </p> <p>Anne, wow, that sounds so much like me! Until the undies anyway. LaPed and a couple others mentioned that workout gear is something they’re more likely to duplicate. I haven’t done that so far, other than getting my favorite Onzie workout tops in black and white, but I wish I had more of those. I’m having enough of a time getting new leggings that I might duplicate those, when I find “the ones”. </p> <p>Shiny, sounds like you and your mom both know what you like! The difference between enjoying knowing that you look good every day and enjoying the “oooh” of putting on something different is becoming very clear to me. Thanks for commenting. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190905 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 07:43:40 +0000 Gigi 2190905@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>In answer to your question to me, Fashiontern, I do often try to find interesting essentials and not just boring ones. However, if I find an interesting essential, I will not duplicate it. I duplicate only the boring ones, I think because I tend to wear them more often (they go with more pieces in my wardrobe). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190889 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 04:44:48 +0000 anne 2190889@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p> <div>Fashiontern, I am another late responder who just wanted to say that I'm, by and large, not a duplicator. I have been on YLF long enough to understand those who do, but for me personally</div><div></p> <ul> <li>I try to buy between 12-20 items a year - most years closer to 12 (that excludes knickers, socks and hose but includes bras and gear) so I really want each item to count and I want them to look different</li> <li>Because I'm a cautious and reluctant buyer, if I do find after wearing, that something warrants duplication or even replacement, there's a good chance it isn't available anymore. Case in point, I love the <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.target.com.au/p/lily-loves-pacific-chunky-sneakers-black/63352634http://">platform black fashion sneakers</a> I bought last year and they are wearing out, but they are now out of stock.</li> <li>I do however, have some very similar wardrobe essential items - eg 4 black long sleeved fitted tees. But they were bought over 13 years, and though not intended to be, do have some slight differences that will mean I'll choose one over another at different point - eg the heatech one is warmer, one of them has a better neckline to layer under certain dresses.</li> </ul> <p>I'm also on the side of no fuss, functional underpinnings! No need to match or look good. I also buy those 5 packs at the supermarket. No problem with those who like pretty things, like you, but not a priority for me. It would be an added burden (because I don't like shopping and have many other spending priorities).&nbsp; <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>ETA: I have, however, duplicated recently with a HEWI. I bought some longer length running shorts something like this <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.rebelsport.com.au/p/ell-and-voo-womens-paige-pocket-sport-tights-M56980701.html?dwvar_M56980701_color=Black&amp;cgid=#prefn1=category&amp;prefv1=Shorts&amp;start=1">https://www.rebelsport.com.au/.....l?dwvar_M5</a> (mine were navy and not on sale!) and loved them so much that&nbsp; when I had a voucher to spend I duplicated within a few months.<br /></div></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190802 Wed, 28 Apr 2021 22:36:57 +0000 shiny 2190802@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Late responder but I duplicate quite a lot. I am hard to fit-- when I find something that fits, I duplicate. For example I have 3 or 4 of the same exact Old Navy Rockstar jeans, same wash, everything. And 3 or 4 of the same LOFT ponte knit pants. And yes when I find a bra that fits, I buy 3 nude and one black. My panties are all different colors because I bought a value pack.&nbsp;</p> <p>But mostly I try to duplicate in a different color to add some variety. I bought a particular tank top from Anthro this past year (black, grey, white and burnt orange). I bought 3 of the same Old Navy hoodies (white, black, pink). I have 4 pairs of the same SOMA leggings (black, grey, and two with different patterns). I am now up to 4 Ann Taylor Newbury blazers-- it is such a flattering fit on me--- but all 4 are totally different colors/patterns/seasonal weights. I have numerous Allbird sneakers but all are in different colors. I just today bought my 6th pair of their Trino socks (Best socks ever!) but all are different colors. I have a certain Jcrew cotton tee in multiple colors. I have 3 pairs (different colors) of the Recliner PJ set and 4 of their Second skin nightie (all different colors). And on and on. I wear it all, although I have gotten into trouble with some orphans and it's usually due to the color being wrong for me.&nbsp;</p> <p>I'm not *quite* as bad as my mom! Since retirement she settled on a daily uniform: white crew neck sweatshirt, white polo, Lee jeans, and white New balance sneakers. She has many multiples of each. She has other clothes in her closet of course, for dressier occasions, but this is what she pulls on in the morning most days hanging out at home.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190656 Wed, 28 Apr 2021 15:14:17 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2190656@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Putting together what I’ve learned, duplicating items can help put together looks without a lot of thought, especially if those looks highlight a statement piece against a backdrop. It is also useful for wardrobes that are themselves carefully balanced artworks themselves, because of how difficult it can be to find another piece that can do all the tasks done by one favorite piece. It can also help with laundry backups or for sizes that are hard to find. </p> <p>It is not for me, because if I’m in the mood to get dressed quickly without thinking about it, I can do that with my large wardrobe already. If I want to feel good and be mindful of what I’m putting on, that starts with the base layer; always layering on the same primer sounds boooooring. I’m not interested in having several identical items to swap out; I’d much rather have small differences, various types of “lurking quirk” that I can choose to highlight if I want, but are insignificant enough that in a pinch, I can substitute one for the other. </p> <p>I’m reminded of the East German Ampelmännchen (pix added to OP). When East and West Germany joined in the 1990s, many people in the East felt they were being taken over and perfectly functional systems, like returnable yogurt jars, were thrown out for no reason. Many factories were bought and closed by Westerners who didn’t want the competition. It got to feeling like just being from the East was enough to get a thing thrown out. A nadir was when the filters in street crossing signs were changed. The “new” crossing lights had angular green and red figures to show when pedestrians could cross. The East German figures they showed were also red and green, and did the job just as well. People protested the mindless change and the Eastern lights were brought back. In my wardrobe, instead of several standard filters, I’d prefer to have some quirky variations that all work equally well, so I can choose the one I want that day.</p> <p>Thanks to all who commented and helped me think this through! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190419 Tue, 27 Apr 2021 19:27:00 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2190419@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>BD, thanks for your comment. Looking at your WIWs, I would not have guessed it is so difficult to find things that fit. You look graceful and pulled together. With the way fashion production has been sped up and globalized to increase profits, it is bizarre that they ignore potential consumers. Using length x width sizing, like jeans, for all clothes would make shopping easier for nearly everyone. And I’m aware of the cliff my size 10 feet are standing on, where the number of styles produced drops dramatically just one size bigger. You are an amazing shopper to be able to buy duplicates so many times and almost never miscalculate—many of us have much worse records only buying single items. Thanks for the reminder about the variety of purposes YLF fills too; I hope Angie sees that. I like learning here too. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190382 Tue, 27 Apr 2021 17:50:46 +0000 Barbara Diane 2190382@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm glad that you are figuring out both why you do what you do and why others do what they do.</p> <p>I am a duplicator because I am hard to fit. My feet-size 11, toes practically a strait row across, ankles that cause shoes to fall off. I have shoes that I have duplicated or triplicated and have worn through all the pairs and wish I still had them. Colors may or may not be the same. The brand that used to have shoes that fit no longer use the last that worked for me. If I could easily go into a store and easily find shoes that I like and that fit, I wouldn't need to duplicate.</p> <p>My body is also challenging to fit, and my size is usually not carried. Clothes in my size are often cut for someone with a completely different shape. And I am particular with fabric and style. I can go years and years without finding what I like. So, when I find something that works, I often duplicate it. If I could easily find similar items with different details, I would love that.</p> <p>So far, I have always used up my duplicates, with one exception. I have what someone in the fashion industry called a really well designed wrap dress. I had been looking for a dress for several years. I was so excited I ended up buying an exact duplicate. It even magically works over multiple sizes. I never wanted to be without it. Well, it was well made, and it is still going strong after many, many years. I haven't needed two. So far.</p> <p>As far as YLF members go, there is a wide variety here. I never watch a fashion show except maybe when someone here links to it. I don't read fashion magazines. I rarely notice what others are wearing. Occasionally I remind myself to look at others for inspiration. However, I appreciate what I learn here. It helps me acclimate to changing silhouettes and trends. I understand myself better when I see what choices others make. I also feel better about myself. It was healing for me to learn it isn't only people my size who are hard to fit and whose size often aren't carried in stores.&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190276 Tue, 27 Apr 2021 12:52:30 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2190276@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Just realized I skipped some folks: </p> <p><b>Phoebe</b>, I agree with both your points—most of my clothing is well-made, I like each item (even if I wouldn’t call each one “beautiful”) and they are comfortable and allow me to be as active as I want to be. That’s probably a big, big part of why I hang onto them so long—they work!</p> <p><b>unfrumped</b>. That’s interesting about overduplicating. Even in my big wardrobe, I always try to find things that don’t repeat what something else does.</p> <p><b>JAileen,</b> I can’t imagine wearing the same thing every day, no matter how much the rest changed. I love my boots and tights in the fall, but this time of year, I can’t stand to put them on. </p> <p><b>Helena, </b>If one is good, five isn’t better? Lol. I hear what you’re saying. It’s probably my maximalist tendency that leads me to want something different all the time.</p> <p><b>Sally</b>, I’m not about to write out a list of everything in my wardrobe, but since you did, I think marking the throttled pieces that way is a great idea. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190259 Tue, 27 Apr 2021 09:25:27 +0000 Sally 2190259@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>yes I will be keen to have a discussion on thrifting.&nbsp; I have made a list of my small wardrobe (post weight loss) and have colour coded the thrifted items so I can see to what extent my wardrobe and wears are thrifted.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please/page/2#post-2190256 Tue, 27 Apr 2021 08:56:28 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2190256@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Sloper, </b>so many good points in your post! I see you agree with what <b>Sarah, Mary Beth</b> and I said upthread about this being just one kind of duplication. I am certainly a duplicator when it comes to colors. The tools/undies analogy works IF you think of underpinnings as things that matter only in how they influence the final look. I don’t see why a useful hammer couldn’t be made of bronze and decorated with cut jewels. Finally, thanks for explaining <b>Jenn’s </b>analogy to me. The square pieces are extreme versions of the edges, and are analogous to the things people duplicate. Most people start a puzzle by getting them in order, because they’re easy and give a literal framework and start you on your way to the goal of a finished puzzle. </p> <p><b>Jenn</b>, I saw your comment on the blog after my first reply to you here. Is what I just said about your analogy correct, with your goal/finished puzzle being the ideal wardrobe? I’m surprised you count duplicates as one item, instead of taking the average price and counting each piece separately. If you do count individual “white T shirts” (because that seems to be the most common example of a thing to duplicate), how does it change your wardrobe numbers? </p> <p><b>Anne, </b>your statement “I enjoy dressing well every day”explains so much! I just had a great big lightbulb go off in my head. I’ve been reading “I like to <u><b>make</b></u> great outfits” when people might have meant “I like to make/have/wear <u><b>great <i>outfits</i></b></u>&lt;“. To borrow from corny old posters, it’s the difference between journey and destination. Unlike those posters/books/motivational speakers though, I don’t mean to tell people what they should value/enjoy; I’m just happy to see the distinction. As I’ve said before, what I like about YLF is it shows me ways to think about putting things together, so instead of just grabbing what my gut says to go with, I can think about it and figure it out. There is a process; and I can enjoy that activity. I mean, sure, it’s nice to wind up with an outfit that looks good, but that’s sort of a byproduct, iykwim. </p> <p>A couple other analogies: my son had a great time fishing with his uncle &amp; cousin recently. No one brought anything home, but they had a happy afternoon together. I have many happy memories of tending my dad’s rose bushes with him on summer evenings after dinner, but was always a little surprised at the praise visitors heaped on the roses. It hadn’t occurred to me that they were the point. </p> <p>One counter-example: I recall getting testy at a conference once when a few people joined in with me and some others who were going to lunch, then some more, and more. I was happy to have the group, but instead of moving along towards lunch, they were standing there discussing the various options. I didn’t want to talk about going to lunch; I wanted to EAT. </p> <p>The journey/process distinction also explains the differing thoughts on underwear. If the point is the final product, the outfit, what looks good in pictures, then it makes no sense to think about basics; they should hold up the load while disappearing quietly. I agree with not having lumps, lines, or colors show through, but putting on a pretty slip can make me smile as much as putting on the dress over it—it’s the process, as well as the end result of not having the dress stick to my tights. </p> <p><b>Gaylene, </b> I’m happy to have company on the bench! Thinking about it, I realize that it is just one person who admonishes me that this is a site for people who love fashion. She’s said it numerous times, but is still just one person. But I still don’t see why you’d take 3 of the same thing when you had so little space. I guess it didn’t matter to you if it looked like you were wearing the same thing every day. The point was to be pulled together and appropriate for the current activity; if you needed a certain shirt to do that, it might’ve been in the laundry. I still think I’d prefer 3 different shirts that were all that flexible. But that’s just me. </p> <p><b>Gigi</b>, we are all different. When I see a T-shirt that isn’t interesting, I don't think of substitutable parts—I think of lurking quirk, finding a way to make it interesting. Might be a lettuce hem, fabric with an interesting texture, or fancy stitching by the seams, but it makes the item feel special. Do you have those sorts of things, or does the duplication make them difficult? </p> <p>Sally, a thrift shop is as non-duplicatey as you can get! I want to start thrifting when the pandemic is over, and will certainly have questions. I hope you’ll chime in. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please#post-2190242 Tue, 27 Apr 2021 05:39:24 +0000 Sally 2190242@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Apart from bras, undies, sports clothes and basics like tank tops, the only thing I've ever duplicated was jeans.&nbsp; I used to like a particular brand of black skinny jeans and another type of blue jean.&nbsp; I did it in case I couldn't get the jeans again at the special price.&nbsp; I mainly thrift shop these days with a little bit of retail so it is hard to duplicate things.&nbsp; I also feel if I get sick of a particular look, it would of been a waste to have bought so many things and its better to wear out what I have.&nbsp; Thats just me though.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please#post-2190233 Tue, 27 Apr 2021 05:14:48 +0000 Gigi 2190233@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't ordinarily do much duplicating, because I crave variety. But on essentials that aren't very interesting--such as a T-shirt--I will duplicate. I have a hard time finding things that fit me well, and when I find a T-shirt I like, I get two. (And I might even get three in the future!) It doesn't take long before white tees become dirty, and by having two, I have the option of wearing the dupe while I wait for the laundry bottleneck to clear. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please#post-2190178 Tue, 27 Apr 2021 00:06:59 +0000 SW Ann 2190178@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><div>I was never a duplicator until I got older, and I changed locations.&nbsp; <br /></div><div>Retail is NOT good where I live now, and I had to either take what I could get or learn to buy dupes if I found something I liked.&nbsp; ( I changed locations drastically in 1999--retail online was only just starting to be worth using)&nbsp; It could be years before I found something similar if I needed it.&nbsp; Also, I used to travel several times per year and I hated having to find laundry facilities. Dupes in some things--a favorite pair of jeans, tops....made it easier to plan my packing.&nbsp; I have always duplicated underpinnings--except for a few special items! I think we each find our own way of making our own looks work best.&nbsp; I enjoy dressing well every day, and that made it less stressful and more enjoyable.&nbsp; "To each his own".....<br /></div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please#post-2190163 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 22:22:40 +0000 Sloper 2190163@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I’m baffled that you’re baffled. Duplication is just a way of<br /> doing things (many things, not just “fashion.”)</p> <p>Why shouldn’t people who like to think about clothes use time-saving methods? Maybe one’s time-saver is a limited color palette, but many shapes (i.e. duplicating colors), maybe someone else’s is sticking with a favorite silhouette (or two or three) and playing with colors and patterns (i.e. duplicating shapes). Most people don’t have unlimited time to play and experiment. Also, manufacturers typically make clothes for standard shapes – most of us aren’t “standard” – if we find that rare certain fit, why not duplicate?</p> <p>Jenn’s puzzle metaphor is excellent – get the corners and edges right, and you can play with filling in the middle. It certainly resonates with<br /> me yet my style is different from Jenn’s. Somedays I’ll stick with my color palette and experiment with shapes, maybe I’ll pick a trusty silhouette, and add color/pattern or accessory variety.</p> <p>I don’t buy duplicates of many things like 5 of a sweater or skirt or shoe or bag, but I have duplicated Gap chinos, tees, and thermal tops – I like them and since I’m a slob, I might get 2 or 3 in white because I’ll eventually ruin them with grease or spaghetti sauce or tea.&nbsp; No shame in a little brand loyalty.</p> <p>Also, you asked, “Why would we not want to wear fun things all the way down?” Why do we have to? Maybe you’ve heard the phrase, “A good<br /> workman never blames his tools.” (Originally from the PBS show This Old House, so at the time a manly phrase for manly construction dudes). Some of us might think like that regarding bras, undies, etc. Pick the right ones, and things work fine.&nbsp; If I'm itchy or pinched or "showing" - it's on me to pick what I can count on.</p> <p>Fortunately, I’ve found that one special brand for me in bras, they make fancy, tee shirt, and sports bras. I NEVER have to worry about my<br /> bra. And Jockey slip shorts. Sigh. These bras and panties ARE fun things for me - they fit and feel good and I feel good in them. I don’t want lacy foolishness creeping up my you-know-what. ;-)</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please#post-2190144 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 20:27:18 +0000 Jenn 2190144@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh, but I DO duplicate in this manner. Power of one doesn’t apply to bras, socks, underwear, camis, tanks, workout gear, or sleepwear for me. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please#post-2190133 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 19:17:18 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2190133@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, thank you for all the responses! </p> <p><b>Ophelia, </b>I hear you that you’ve found something that works and so you want to use it. Bras certainly need to be functional. I may have a little less stringent requirements, with my 36Bs, but I also don’t see why I can’t one that does both, sort of like a car or bike that gets you from A to B and you enjoy the ride, or a trivet that looks pretty while protecting the table, etc. </p> <p><b>Irina, </b>it is so interesting that you and I dress so differently, because I often feel like I could say what you’re saying, like wanting undergarments with “the least possible amount of adornments. My criteria: no show through clothes, comfortable, supportive and decent quality.” I agree with all of that; if I get lace, it can’t be lumpy, and if I’m wearing something that has to lie smoothly, I’ll make sure I don’t have any lace with it. In addition to those requirements, I also like them to look good on their own, with colors or cut-outs or whatever. I also agree with you completely on<br /> “Sometimes I put in time to do outfit creation sessions but mostly, my goal to have a functional wardrobe where majority of items work together and I don’t have to spend a lot of time everyday on getting dresses and still look put together.” I really don’t like taking time to get dressed. That’s why I got the bodysuits and undershirts with built-in bras this winter, so I’d have one less item to put on. On multiples, I hear you on getting excited about something unusual and therefore wanting more than one, but on the essentials, are you saying it’s basically a time-saver? </p> <p><b>LaPed, </b>you work carefully to have a balanced, very mix n match wardrobe, so it makes sense that if one working part fails, it could upset the apple cart. Duplicating workout clothes—I wish I’d done that for my two favorite tops. Your reasons for choosing under layers are much like mine. I hope no one got the idea that I start by choosing undies. I do that very rarely, like when they are new. Today’s match is because I knew the top I’m wearing can come up above my pants, so I wanted to cover my belly. When I realized how useful the black bodysuit is, I wanted another, but instead of a duplicate, I got something similar that gives me variety. </p> <p><b>Cat2,</b> haha “ It’s not going to make my life meaningfully better to look at two more brands to find essentially the same top” is brilliant. I guess I’ve never had things lined up so neatly as to realize that I needed 3 of the same top. The ones I mentioned to Kkards just sort of happened. You and I want different things from underwear. I certainly don’t want them to bug me or show through my clothes. But I do want to feel just as nice in them as I do in anything else. Why not? I don’t want to build something blah, so why start with a blah base layer?</p> <p><b>Angie, </b>for white tops, especially a sweater or other heavier fabric that takes a while to dry, I can see how duplicates could be useful, especially if it’s one you want to wear a lot. I’m still not feelin’ the duplicate undies thing though. </p> <p><b>Zaoebi, </b>I’m trying and failing to think of that one thing I duplicate. On the fashion industry failing to notice the variety of human skin tones—that makes perfect sense to me to duplicate, as much as you want nude to you bras. I have a couple, but am more likely to match color of bra &amp; top. Btw, the red bodysuit comes in a couple of your colors; the line also includes bras and a couple styles of bottoms. </p> <p><b>Sarah08, </b>you know I’m with you on comfort! And I think you may have found the key: I like different shapes. I’m thinking of my 3 favorite winter miniskirts. Some people say I wear the same silhouette a lot, and have encouraged me to branch out. The first time I heard that, it took me a minute to figure out what they meant, because I feel the differences in shape, even if they are all short &amp; worn with dark tights and something big &amp; fluffy on top. So while we both like “holding certain variables constant so that I can experiment with other variables that are of more interest or are more fun for me”, we find different parts interesting. I can understand that. Thanks. </p> <p><b>Mary Beth, Smittie </b>absolutely kicked off this discussion on the right note, no doubt! Thinking about what you said about creatively combining different things.... when I got my blue cape, one obvious way to wear it was with a column of black. I think the cape is a great statement piece, but don’t think wearing it that way is creative styling of a wonderful, fun outfit; I think it’s booooring. I had much more fun pairing the cape with a pinny/dress with a blackberry ls T, blue cord paisley skirt, or with my red flares. This is starting to gel for me now—I have a statement-heavy wardrobe with few essentials, so if essentials are what most people duplicate to better feature their statement items, then it makes sense that I’m not a duplicator. I have essentials—look at all those tights—but I think I choose them to make their own, slightly quieter, statements, if that makes sense. Basic tights and a black ls T would have worked in most of these outfits, but I was happy with something more specific for each one. </p> <p><b>Suz,</b> I’m really getting the message that when people say “underpinnings”, they mean it, and that they are not part of the outfit. I’m more like the motorhead who polishes the car’s engine. </p> <p><b>Rachy, </b>teal turtlenecks? </p> <p><b>SunTiger, </b>saving up for the fun stuff? I think lingerie is fun stuff. I don’t need to have the slightest concern for what anyone thinks of it, because it’s just for me. I love opening the drawer and seeing all the silk and velvet and fancy stuff. Once in a while a guy might see an item or two, but it is absolutely not about what anyone else thinks about me wearing whatever. As for reinventing the wheel every time, why does it matter if it’s basics or choosing another dark neutral skirt? </p> <p><b>Jenn</b>, I’m not sure I get it. I don’t think you are a duplicator or a repeater. I think you are saying that if you were, those items would be the square puzzle pieces that all fit with everything. Is that right? What are the randomly chosen pieces, other than a mess? </p> <p>Thanks again to everyone in this conversation—I think I’m starting to see why you duplicate *and* why I don’t. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please#post-2190132 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 19:17:00 +0000 Helena 2190132@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Smittie, lol!!</p> <p>My quick answer is, as Angie would say, horses for courses ... but personally I don't see "more variety" as a necessary component of enjoying fashion and style. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please#post-2190128 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 18:57:23 +0000 unfrumped 2190128@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I mostly tend to duplicate in different colors of the same item, usually types of SS or LS tops, tanks that seem to fit well and have the type of neckline I like. Underlayers including Heattech T's are frequently same color because I have fewer malfunctions with nude-for-me or sometimes black or white. I have some T's in same color but 2 different sizes because one layers better under jackets but one feels better if worn alone on a hot day. I have duplicated some ankle-strap flats and dressy shoes in 2 different colors in the past, but those days are gone since now I worry that my fussy feet may change before I get to wear things. Other than some of the underlayers, I have 2 pair of many years-old&nbsp; heavy twill cargo shorts exactly the same,&nbsp; used almost every day in summer for gardening,&nbsp; and have not found something as good.</p> <p>One caution I have for myself about <u>over</u>-duplicating, and this might speak to part of your question, is that I need to beware of the "but I'll never find something as good/better"&nbsp; &nbsp;because I tend to misunderestimate how I might change or how some maker or brand may indeed come up with the exact something "better" that I want, and then it's difficult to justify adding that, or I'll have trouble letting go of my older stuff anyway. I think this is likely to be more of an issue now that I am not working, even though a good example of useful duplicating is in some gardening gear, as my cargo shorts. Because&nbsp; &nbsp;even in casual wear, I have several "modes", hence could manage with "one" of different types of items and wear something else due to rain, temperature, plans for the day, overlap between activity capsules, or&nbsp; do some laundry every day if&nbsp; I want to. So "making do" might be the one-of approach, rather&nbsp; than have multiples for what they bring to&nbsp; simplicity of choice and silhouette. <br />Hence I'm thinking both of some new types of useful duplications in my new roles and goals, and some which would make me less flexible to suddenly find something&nbsp; better, or take up unnecessary space. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-understand-please#post-2190121 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 18:34:51 +0000 JAileen 2190121@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I duplicate long sleeve charcoal tees because I like wearing them every day in winter. &nbsp;If I had just one, I’d have to wash it every night. &nbsp; </p>