https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:45:26 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2129329 Wed, 24 Jun 2020 05:53:13 +0000 Zaeobi 2129329@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Thread Update:</b> For anyone who's interested, I tried on the third blouse (animal print shirt) open &amp; also tucked into some bottoms, as suggested. See what you think: <a href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/fit-lab-striped-animal-print-blouse" rel="nofollow">https://youlookfab.com/welookf.....int-blouse</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2129167 Tue, 23 Jun 2020 11:50:36 +0000 Zaeobi 2129167@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ahh that makes sense - thanks Jenni! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2129149 Tue, 23 Jun 2020 08:21:08 +0000 Jenni NZ 2129149@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think DA will be Dark Autumn. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2129124 Tue, 23 Jun 2020 02:38:41 +0000 Zaeobi 2129124@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>@Joy </b> I know exactly the material you're talking about - I love the concept of washable silk but find the crinkled texture feels weird on my skin (the woes of sensitive skin - even seams that don't lie flat irritate me!) Buying washable silk cheaply (i.e. secondhand) makes me feel a bit better about experimenting with it in the wash though (I wash all of my clothes on a lower setting by default, but put my silks in a mesh bag or pillowcase on top of that). May not be as relevant for you @Joy (I'm sure you know all of this already) but I'm going to leave this link to an old YLF thread about machine washing delicate fabrics (as a reference for anyone else who's interested in taking a gamble with thrifted clothes): <a href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/do-you-ever-wash-your-dry-clean-only-items" rel="nofollow">https://youlookfab.com/welookf.....only-items</a></p> <p>Grey is unfortunately the one colour that doesn't suit me well (unless it's a really warm &amp; dark charcoal grey, almost black). I can look for dark wash denim colours though, thanks! </p> <p><b>@suntiger </b> What does DA mean, sorry? It's so frustrating not being able to find light coloured clothes that don't wash me out (I wonder if wearing the melon blouse with a darker bottom &amp; earrings could offset the feeling a bit?) #FirstWorldProblems I know, since there are a lot of people who would *love* to look good in head-to-toe black - maybe this is my cue to embrace a gothic alter ego instead, haha </p> <p>The third blouse I agree isn't my best look, despite being rich &amp; black - I've been been looking to dip my toe into animal prints (despite hating them growing up) &amp; thought this would be a unique iteration of it. Will try a fit lab this weekend before deciding whether to donate it or cut it up into a scarf perhaps! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2129022 Mon, 22 Jun 2020 18:46:48 +0000 Anonymous 2129022@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like the first blouse most too. The melon one doesn't seem deep enough, really almost a "pastel to DA", but may be different in person. The third looks algo and the stripes make the fit look boxier. Good for a high contrast straight figured lady (I've shopped for that lady too).<br /> Big yes to washable silk! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2129019 Mon, 22 Jun 2020 18:37:24 +0000 Anonymous 2129019@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Back in the 90’s or 80’s there was a lot of washable silk around, it was<br /> kind of crinkly. I wore it all the time, especially in summer as it as light and airy but not see through and washed it on delicate in the washing machine. I probably even dried it on low heat. There may be some at thrift stores. Look for white or natural linen drawstring pants, even in the men’s section. I have thrifted several silk summer tops and wash them and hang to dry trying to pull out wrinkles, but they usually take a little bit of ironing with a medium hot or low heat iron.<br /> If you can’t find beige, try grey. Or even denim blue. It seems to go with everything. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128985 Mon, 22 Jun 2020 15:54:09 +0000 Zaeobi 2128985@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks <b>@runcarla</b> but I think I may be letting my affinity for breathable fabrics (eg spotting '100% silk' on a label) get in the way of my discernment for the usual other factors (fit &amp; colour for example, like <b>@Jenni NZ</b> mentioned). </p> <p>It's frustrating when you can't try something on beforehand (or don't feel comfortable doing so without washing it first) - looking back at these pictures, shirt #3 may have actually shrunk a little bit in the wash (I didn't feel comfortable trying it on over my clothes without washing because of the smell lol). </p> <p>I'm also really struggling with finding the right colours for summer when shopping in typically very dim secondhand shops. I tend to look ok in bright colours, but saturated jewel tones moreso than neon shades. I'm at a bit of a loss when dressing for summer to be honest, because the rich colours that typically suit me (think burgundy, teal or chocolate) often look a little out of place in the summertime, plus it's difficult to find something like a burgundy silk top that isn't eveningwear. Hence the light orange situation (melon/ peach/ whatever you want to call it lol). I wonder if @Jenni is onto something with it looking 'dull' on me - can I get away with 'dusky' or 'murky' colours, or do I need more 'clear' shades? Interestingly enough, the first blouse is not clearly a red or pink shade either way... </p> <p>Anyway, sorry for the tangent lol. Trying to troubleshoot all factors so I can (hopefully) have more success in future thrifts! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128888 Mon, 22 Jun 2020 08:10:10 +0000 Jenni NZ 2128888@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think I only like the first one much- although like is the wrong word, I actually LOVE the colour on you. I’m not keen on the second colour, looks dull on you. And think the third one doesn’t fit correctly.<br /> So basically...what Lisap said. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128881 Mon, 22 Jun 2020 04:42:14 +0000 Carla 2128881@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You are a good thrifter, Z! &nbsp;#1 is a slam dunk - score! &nbsp;The ‘peach’ (#2) looks to be well made with some Interesting tailoring. &nbsp;I think it would look more ‘finished’ if you tied a bow like #1. It is a quieter look than your other choices. &nbsp; I DO like #3 very much - maybe more than #1! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128734 Sun, 21 Jun 2020 03:49:06 +0000 Zaeobi 2128734@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for the kind words, @Angie &amp; @Shevia </p> <p>I will try the striped 'animal print' blouse with some different trouser &amp; skirt combinations next week - any suggestions? Am thinking of tucking it into a pleated skirt or wearing it open over black trousers to see if it hangs any differently - remind me to report back! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128721 Sun, 21 Jun 2020 02:53:38 +0000 Jaime 2128721@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't see how I can improve upon your outfit in #3! Great finds! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128649 Sat, 20 Jun 2020 19:06:17 +0000 Angie 2128649@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The watermelon is KILLER. Wow! Perfect colour and fit! Score :)</p> <p>I like the melon too! Not as good a colour as the watermelon, but not bad. Nice fit.</p> <p>The fit of the striped blouse is a little off in the pic. Not sure if it's how you are standing. Perhaps try tuckering it into a skirt or your black pants to be sure?&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128538 Sat, 20 Jun 2020 08:22:55 +0000 Zaeobi 2128538@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>@Lisa &amp; @Suz interesting how you both refer to the first blouse as fuschia! I think it's a very difficult colour to place - somewhere between true red &amp; a deep pink. As an 'Autumn', dark berry pinks are supposed to be unflattering on me, but maybe this looks ok? Ugh seems to be a Universal Truth that charity shops have poor lighting compared to how a garment looks at home, no matter where in the world you're shopping </p> <p>@Lisa you mention 'bright &amp; clear' colours - care to elaborate? I guess you mean the 'melon' shade looks a little faded, right? One of the pitfalls of vintage, I suppose! </p> <p>I see what both you &amp; @Suz mean about the last shirt - I think I may need to do a further fit lab for it. Otherwise maybe wear it open like a topper? Or just accept that stripes aren't my best pattern, lol </p> <p>Thanks for the accessory suggestions @Joy - I'm worried that even adding earrings may look a little too 'maximal' though, with such a busy print? Any further pointers? Beige silk pants sound like the perfect resortwear - if only I had the lifestyle to match! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128491 Fri, 19 Jun 2020 22:57:45 +0000 Anonymous 2128491@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like all three on you, although I want the orange one. All would go with neutral bottoms like taupe or beige, especially in silk or linen. The bow takes the place of a necklace and the long sleeves do not need bracelets. You can wear any earrings you wish or a sun hat or hair ornament. Your bag and footwear can be neutral. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128408 Fri, 19 Jun 2020 15:35:52 +0000 Anonymous 2128408@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The fuchsia blouse is fantastic on you - perfect colour . &nbsp;I'm not sure the melon colour is great for you .....I think you are better in clearer, brighter shades. And I have to say I'm not fond of the fit of the striped blouse. I hear you with regards to the fitted waist, but I'm not convinced it's done properly here.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128402 Fri, 19 Jun 2020 15:09:56 +0000 Zaeobi 2128402@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks @Star! Yes I think the fullness of the bow my be throwing me off a little - I might try folding it in half lengthwise &amp; seeing if a thinner 'scarf' looks better. </p> <p>@Suz Yes something looks off but I can't quite put my finger on it... I twisted a bit because I wanted to get that back shot to show how the shirt goes 'in' at the waist (this is often a problem area for me when it comes to fit - something that accommodates the width of my hips usually bags out at the waist &amp; vice versa). I'll try it tucked into a skirt to see if that solves it (&amp; will take photos if I remember!) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128394 Fri, 19 Jun 2020 14:42:35 +0000 Suz 2128394@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The pussybow style is brilliant for you! Love the way you look in #3. That is elegant and so pretty! I'm sure the fuchsia is gorgeous on you also. What a fab idea. <b>Katerina </b>is a <b>great</b> model for these! Her posts will show a wealth of ways to wear, I'll bet. You can also achieve a similar effect with a round necked (or other) blouse (vs. a shirt) and adding a scarf in weather that permits it!&nbsp;</p> <p>The animal print is really interesting and fun! It does look to me as if the fit is a tiny bit off...shoulder looks a bit wide whereas the torso area looks a bit narrow side to side -- yet as you say, no gaping on the front is a sign of a very good fit in that direction, so I am wondering if it is not just the photo, because you have to hold your arm in a certain way to get the selfie. Also, what if you tucked the top? It's a bit short for wearing "out." If you tuck or semi-tuck, it might feel overall a better fit.&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128382 Fri, 19 Jun 2020 13:51:38 +0000 Star (Lise) 2128382@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Re-reading your post #2 is Covered Chic! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128381 Fri, 19 Jun 2020 13:49:10 +0000 Star (Lise) 2128381@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love the 3D animal print, so unique and does not look too small at all - no gaping (as you said), fits shoulder and arm length perfectly.&nbsp; Great find!&nbsp; Love the first silk pussy bow too.&nbsp; I thrifted a red with white polka dot pussy bow in winter and will wear it soon.&nbsp; Maybe I will post it too.&nbsp; &nbsp;No sure about # 2 because my style preference for me is a more narrow bow.&nbsp; Looks really smart if that is the look you going for. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/hk-thrift-finds-1-pussybow-blouses#post-2128377 Fri, 19 Jun 2020 13:36:16 +0000 Zaeobi 2128377@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm having luck finding clothing that fits my size &amp; needs in charity shops here:<br /> <a href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/long-my-shopping-methods-in-hk-secondhand-thrifting-charity-shops-in-hong-kong" rel="nofollow">https://youlookfab.com/welookf.....-hong-kong</a> </p> <p>One of my goals is to acquire more clothing in breathable fabrics (like cotton or silk), since HK requires more warm weather clothing than my native UK:<br /> <a href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/my-style-priorities-partially-virus-protests-induced" rel="nofollow">https://youlookfab.com/welookf.....ts-induced</a> </p> <p>I've settled on pussybow blouses as a good compromise between not looking too masculine on my softer frame (like pointy collared shirts) but not too feminine either (like ruffles). <b>@Katerina</b> noted it's difficult to find modern instances of people wearing them though, so I thought I'd try my hand at thrifting them instead:<br /> <a href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/pussy-bow-blouses---do-you-like-them" rel="nofollow">https://youlookfab.com/welookf.....-like-them</a></p> <p>Here are the blouses I found:<br /> <b>Photos #1-#2:</b> Red pussybow blouse, 100% silk - I like the subtle diagonal sheen 'print', &amp; feel it fits well?<br /> <b>Photos #3-#6:</b> Orange pussybow blouse, 100% silk - a much lighter orange than anticipated once I got it home. Does it work on me? What do you think of how the vertical 'pleats' on the sleeves &amp; bodice hang on me?<br /> <b>Photos #7-#8:</b> '3D' animal print blouse, 100% silk - I like the unique pattern, that consists of both the patterns &amp; the animals themselves. I also like how the waist is fitted, that the black 'stripes' aren't rigidly horizontal &amp; that the buttons don't gape - but I feel like it 'looks' too tight on me. Thoughts? </p> <p>Your comments on fit etc are greatly appreciated! <b>Also, any tips on how to style these blouses - e.g. colour pairings &amp; accessories that would work best with them? </b> I've mentioned my style persona &amp; goals in the linked Style Priorities thread above (e.g. I usually tuck such tops into high-waisted maxi skirts - see photo #3) but Coloured Comfy Covered Chic is my 'style moniker'. Thank you, everyone! </p>