https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 15 Apr 2026 01:37:50 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1921359 Tue, 22 May 2018 09:41:03 +0000 Brooklyn 1921359@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sterling, it is serious fun :)</p> <p>Thanks SF! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1921358 Tue, 22 May 2018 09:32:03 +0000 Anonymous 1921358@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>OH! &nbsp;This is going to be fun. &nbsp;I see I have a lot of reading to catch up on. &nbsp;I so look forward to seeing your project unfold. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1919277 Mon, 14 May 2018 19:51:46 +0000 Style Fan 1919277@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is a great look for you Brooklyn.&nbsp; I saw a jacket by Free People last week that was perfect.&nbsp; I passed on it because it was not my style.&nbsp; There does seem to be lots out there.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1919086 Mon, 14 May 2018 06:16:14 +0000 Brooklyn 1919086@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks Tulle. I am more than happy to hear all these suggestions. Gryffin sent me down a rabbit hole with the Coach bag suggestion. Now I will probably start cruising the TB site tonight :)&nbsp;</p> <p>Thanks Windchime. I think the velvet element is important, and might end up being the hardest to find.&nbsp; I used to have a lovely dark green velvet skirt but it packed it in last year. Darn it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1919083 Mon, 14 May 2018 04:49:39 +0000 tulle 1919083@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ooh, nice one.&nbsp; I should have known you'd be familiar with T.B.'s designs! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1919052 Mon, 14 May 2018 00:20:19 +0000 Windchime 1919052@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What a fun style idea as you assemble your winter wardrobe, Brooklyn! It seems to really suit you and, as others have said, you already have a good start on it. Your Finds make me think of some of the gorgeous styles which were in Victoria magazine. I too have a sugar eye for florals and jewel-tone velvets and look forward to seeing how this comes together for you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1919046 Sun, 13 May 2018 23:17:47 +0000 Brooklyn 1919046@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks Tulle. We do have Ted Baker here. I love his luscious florals. I have one of his floral tees. I am always very tempted by his floral bags. He tends to use colours that I like too. I will keep an eye out. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1919037 Sun, 13 May 2018 22:14:28 +0000 tulle 1919037@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brooklyn, one more source you might want to check out is Ted Baker London.&nbsp; His stuff is available at Nordstrom's here; not sure who might handle them in Australia.&nbsp; His outsized botanical florals on dark backgrounds (the "Chatsworth" designs are currently available, and gorgeous) make for beautiful and unusual handbags, silk scarves, and clothes. I have one of his tote bags from a couple of seasons back--a garden of floral jewelry printed on black--and its gaudy girly look gives my ancient, beat-up black leather jacket a whole new attitude. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918587 Fri, 11 May 2018 23:32:21 +0000 Brooklyn 1918587@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for checking back in Aida, I will. </p> <p>Srah, thanks. I just had a quick look and will be sure to check that out more thoroughly. I’ve never bought clothes through Etsy, but I am game! </p> <p>Gryffin, those bags! I had to close the link ASAP when I saw a green floral bag that was perfect and over $1000 USD. I do have a couple of brocade cross body straps that I could use for the look. A dark floral one would be great too. Love the idea of a floral charm too. Great ideas! And I laughed and laughed at “plague docto’s bag which appealed”. I totally get that :)</p> <p>Janet, thanks! Those are good ideas too. A velvet scarf would probably be fairly easy to find second hand too. I don’t want this style shift to break the budget. </p> <p>I am excited!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918579 Fri, 11 May 2018 22:55:17 +0000 Aida 1918579@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>All those ideas sound perfect! I hope you'll share as you go </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918556 Fri, 11 May 2018 21:07:55 +0000 Nomad 1918556@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I looooooooove this style direction... please keep posting as you pick up pieces and style outfits!</p> <p>Think about Etsy for clothing as well as jewelry, if you haven't already.&nbsp; Here's one shop I found that might fit your theme, without veering into costume (not all the pieces, anyway):&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LauraGalic">https://www.etsy.com/shop/LauraGalic</a></p> <p>I'm eyeing some of those jackets, especially this one:<br /><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/67450497/mina-jacket-jacket-personalized-jacket">https://www.etsy.com/listing/6.....zed-jacket</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918467 Fri, 11 May 2018 12:28:13 +0000 gryffin 1918467@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brooklyn - I had one more thought.&nbsp; It's a little past prime but that means things will be on sale and hard to find. Coach did their tea rose collection.&nbsp; In fact, in the USA some coach stores had artisans and you could customize any handbag with studs and tea roses.&nbsp; I just bought the coach drifter to replace my beloved coach Annabelle which despite a trip to mama coach central is looking a bit past prime.&nbsp; Someone described this bag as a "plague docto's bag" which appealed!&nbsp; I did add a coach black floral bag charm and the coach tea rose strap in black which skews to your dark floral.&nbsp; But they have whole bags adorned in this way.&nbsp; Adding a bag charm and ornate strap might swap out the looks of your current bags.&nbsp; Just a thought to add to your list.&nbsp; I will try and find more photos.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.coach.com/coach-clutch-with-tea-rose/58181.html?dwvar_color=OLBLK&amp;src=googleshopping&amp;cid=S_GPLA58181_campaignid=220774522&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMIvfnk7tD92gIVjDuBCh2-ogZzEAkYBiABEgJCFPD_BwE" rel="nofollow">https://www.coach.com/coach-cl.....leshopping</a> </p> <p>ht<a href="https://www.coach.com/coach-essential-tea-rose-bag-charm/23539.html?cgid=women-accessories-bag-charms&amp;dwvar_color=BKBLK#spu=0&amp;utm_source=bing&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=Branded%7CNational%7CNational%7CBMM&amp;utm_term=%2Bcoach+%2Bbag+%2Bcharms&amp;utm_content=Accessories%7CBag+Charms&amp;cgid=women-accessories-bag-charms&amp;start=5" rel="nofollow">tps://www.coach.com/coach-essential-tea-rose-bag-charm/23539.html?cgid=women-accessories-bag-charm</a><a href="https://www.coach.com/coach-studded-tea-rose-mix-bag-charm/27269.html?cgid=women-accessories-bag-charms&amp;dwvar_color=GD%2FPY#spu=0&amp;utm_source=bing&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=Branded%7CNational%7CNational%7CBMM&amp;utm_term=%2Bcoach+%2Bbag+%2Bcharms&amp;utm_content=Accessories%7CBag+Charms&amp;cgid=women-accessories-bag-charms&amp;start=1" rel="nofollow">https://www.coach.com/coach-st.....es-bag-cha</a></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918466 Fri, 11 May 2018 12:22:01 +0000 Janet 1918466@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I’m late to this, but can easily see this style already represented in your wardrobe, and you’ve got some great suggestions here. I didn’t read all the responses too thoroughly, so pardon me if I’m repeating, but how about accessories like fingerless gloves or adding textures like velvet in the form of a scarf? Small touches like that can give a hint of the vibe you seek without skewing costumey. Fun stuff! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918460 Fri, 11 May 2018 11:52:28 +0000 Brooklyn 1918460@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks Katerina! I am going to look through your posts for inspiration on how to wear brooches. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918445 Fri, 11 May 2018 11:06:31 +0000 Katerina 1918445@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brooklyn, what a great idea! I am loving it, think it is perfect for you. You have it all covered, I don´t have much to add, but look forward to see your new jewelry and new outfits. So exciting! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918444 Fri, 11 May 2018 11:03:27 +0000 Brooklyn 1918444@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ha ha Jussie! Yes, I’m up for it! Except maybe the polka dots. Well, and the Mary Janes. But never say never! Love the idea of lace stockings or ruffled socks. On the list! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918431 Fri, 11 May 2018 10:18:33 +0000 jussie 1918431@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow I really like the look you’re going for. It would suit you beautifully. Already you have heaps of items that’ll work. I’m thinking shoes could have a big effect too, Mary Janes, Mary Janes with a little heel, lace up heeled boots and so on. Maybe you could try a little dose of tiny polka dot print items too? I agree with what others suggested: jewelry and brooches seem like a good fit.<br /> I’m not so sure about geometric prints though.<br /> Perhaps some little black lacy socks with a ruffle? I know it’s a gamble but I think you’re up for it :). Or how about black floral lace stockings?<br /> Definitely lots of skirts. Veronica Maine have some nice romantic winter skirts at the moment. Just saw them in store yesterday.<br /> Good luck with it! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918376 Fri, 11 May 2018 04:48:29 +0000 Brooklyn 1918376@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>JAileen</b>, thanks! When I was on Etsy looking at brooches I also noticed many a cute Mr Skunky brooch. Just in case you are in the market :)</p> <p><b>Suz</b>, this is the first time I have chosen a theme for the season. I am hoping it will reign me in a bit as I tend to be attracted to a lot of looks. It is also a way of diverting my fashion "energy" more into the styling/outfit creation process and away from purchasing/adding on. (Says she who just bought 3 necklaces, ha ha.)</p> <p><b>Krish</b>, I watched the clip, thanks. I don't know why I haven't seen that movie yet. JL looks fab. Can't wait to see it now.</p> <p><b>Helen</b>, great to hear from you! I am kind of scared to get a quote from a dressmaker to make a velvet coat. But I will definitely consider it if I can't find what I am looking for.</p> <p><b>UF</b>, thanks. I will be experimenting with "how much". I think you are right, the more romantic looks are probably going to more for casual/going out time, rather than work time. It will be romance lite for work. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918375 Fri, 11 May 2018 04:39:25 +0000 Brooklyn 1918375@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well <b>Angie</b>, it seems that I have it too, because now winging their way to me from various Etsy sellers are:</p> <p>Vintage uber long pearl necklace<br />Vintage pearl and diamond motif necklace<br />Vintage diamante and black pearl necklace&nbsp;</p> <p>They are all faux/costume, so not expensive. Can't wait 'til they get here!</p> <p><b>Aida</b>, thanks for your comments and suggestions. I wish I had you as a shopping buddy. I like your idea of a moody romantic bohemian look. Maybe that is something I could aspire to outside of winter. In winter, I rarely have trouble going dark I agree that velvet is missing. And lace. I have to be fussy about lace because it tends to make me itchy. But a white lace cami in cotton would be ideal. For sheer items I have a few possibilities - a sheer black silk blouse with sleeve cutouts, a sheer black sleeved top that has an interesting sort of long glove effect, a sheer dark floral top (but sleeves are a little tight), and an ivory knit with a sheer, ladder effect section. For boots, I have an older pair of tall lace up flat boots in black. They have studs and lean a little biker, but I think they will work. I am also eyeing off a similar pair at retail that have a stacked heel and are available in burgundy (happy colour). And I have some equestrian style tall boots in dark brown and tall suede boots in black that might work. I don't have finds for all these items but I may create them as I go. And, it's interesting, that clutch you have - I stalked a similar one on Anthro for ages last year. It would be ideal!</p> <p><b>Vix</b>, I love Etsy. As I noted to <b>Angie</b>, I have gone a little nuts in the last 2 days. It's a great way to find interesting, inexpensive items that just need a new home. I bought some black beads to help serve my "contrast" needs. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918330 Thu, 10 May 2018 23:35:01 +0000 Angie 1918330@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh, Brooklyn, I LIKE having pearl mania </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918305 Thu, 10 May 2018 22:33:38 +0000 Aida 1918305@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><div>Brooklyn, how fun! Interestingly (esp. since we have a lot of boho style overlap) I've had "dark romance", those exact words, on my fall/winter style notes for the past several years but have been very slow to incorporate because of the "dark" half. It has mainly ended up manifesting as a moody romantic bohemian sorta thing which I think suits me a bit better.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>My original notes: <i>lace, delicate architectural ruffles, brocade, velvet&nbsp;</i></div><div><br /></div><div>I quite like your list, much more thorough and I think has a nice clear direction and vision. And I very much like the collection you've put together (what a great idea! I should try that too, to see what's missing). I think a little more velvet, lace, and something sheer or with sheer bits is missing from your set. What are you thinking for tall boots? I bet a tall lace-up stacked heel style would work really well.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>As for romantic stripes I think going diagonal with lots of drape/asymmetry/flounciness/architecture would be ideal. So an architectural shirt, a dress with an exaggerated sharkbite/handkerchief type hem, dark tonal stripes (e.g. navy+charcoal).</div><div><br /></div><div>Attached are a couple things I bought this past fall specifically to scratch this itch :)<br /></div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d/page/2#post-1918183 Thu, 10 May 2018 18:00:00 +0000 Vix 1918183@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi Brooklyn --</p> <p>This will be a great look for you and -- as others have mentioned -- so easy given your current closet.</p> <p>Diana already beat me to the dark and freshwater pearls. I have to throw the Etsy suggestion you gave me earlier back at you. It's a great source for large-scale shell pendants...that's been such a winner for me when it's hot I ended up ordered a black lip version for my "contrast" needs. You can find quite gorgeous upscale versions there but mine was under $10 with shipping. ;)</p> <p>Other than that, not much to add to the great ideas above. You may find you need to retire your striped items for the season...as you noted organic and curved shapes are just more in line with this look unless you want to carry it into steampunk. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d#post-1918134 Thu, 10 May 2018 15:58:47 +0000 JAileen 1918134@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is such an interesting turn. I’m going enjoy seeing your evolution. So much of what you have will work anyway. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d#post-1918118 Thu, 10 May 2018 14:57:08 +0000 Suz 1918118@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love this idea for you, <b>Brooklyn</b>, and it seems you are well on your way. I also like the more general idea of setting a tone for the season and thinking in those terms. I have never consciously done this but now that you say it, it sounds brilliant!&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d#post-1918075 Thu, 10 May 2018 13:11:21 +0000 krishnidoux 1918075@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brooklyn, that whole movie is wrth seeing, really, it's a very ggod movie. Howerever, THIS is the exact scene I was thinking of in terms of your post. No spoiler alert, not to worry:&nbsp;<br /><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNFUGWmYldc">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNFUGWmYldc</a></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d#post-1918072 Thu, 10 May 2018 12:56:40 +0000 Helen11 1918072@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sounds like a fun way to start the winter wardrobe.&nbsp; I had a chuckle at your husband taking on fashion analysis, and at Sal's household fashion discussions.<br />My only tip:&nbsp; A dressmaker can make you that perfect coat.<br />I know this because I'm spending the week at Dance Eisteddfod, and, oh the costumes! With fabric and imagination anything is possible! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d#post-1918060 Thu, 10 May 2018 11:33:08 +0000 unfrumped 1918060@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This sounds like fun!</p> <p>I can see these elements working great for you. You can experiment with how “ much”. Not sure what styles or “ muchness” is for work vs. personal time, but that can be part of the experiment.<br /> “ Juxtaposition” likely to help some. Not necessary when you’re free to dress full- on romantic, but good for work. Like accessorizing advice— get all dressed and accessized, then remove one accessory.<br /> I think of that for using stripes and geometrical, too. They can add interest and also dial back the boho- romance when needed. Such as the striped top worn with a “ romantic “ jacket instead of the expected preppy blazer, but maybe combing the colors and “ darkness” carefully to avoid a jarring effect. You have a great knack for color- pattern combos that look “ effortless “ and yet like they were made to go together. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d#post-1918027 Thu, 10 May 2018 04:52:23 +0000 Brooklyn 1918027@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Tulle</b>, the coat is top of my list. I love your idea about shortening a coat to jacket length. I will keep that in mind if I find something that's too long. I used to have a chocolate brown velvet coat that was a total favourite of mine until it eventually developed holes. Swagger is right :)</p> <p><b>Angie</b>, pearl mania is a recognised and serious fashion condition. Much like boot mania, which I have suffered from for a long time. The only advice that I can give you is to accept the diagnosis and try to manage the adverse side effects (especially on your budget) as best you can. Thanks for your suggestions.</p> <p><b>Texstyle</b>, I know Patricia Nash. I once bought one of her handbags for my mum. Maybe I can borrow it (mum is always borrowing mine).</p> <p><b>efbgen</b>,<b></b>&nbsp;<b>lyn67 </b>and <b>Toban</b> thanks too for the vote of confidence.</p> <p><b>cjh</b>, good ideas, thanks. You are right that not every outfit needs to be full on romance. I am only aiming for a slight shift in that direction.</p> <p><b>Bijou</b>, I love your coat sooo much. Something like that, but single breasted and in plum, dark green or teal, would be perfect. I also love your white floral dress and have had my eye out for something similar for ages.</p> <p><b>Krish</b>, I have read that book but never seen the movie. I will put that on the play list now. Thanks for the tip.</p> <p><b>gryfiin</b>, I will investigate that site, thanks. I am not sure whether they ship to Australia. My go to for vintage is Etsy and Ruby Lane. I wish I had some vintage stores in my area. Some of the brands you mention are not really available here except by O/S purchase, and super spendy of course, but I will keep an eye out, and keep you informed!&nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d#post-1918025 Thu, 10 May 2018 04:26:18 +0000 Brooklyn 1918025@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks <b>Gigi</b>. We do have FP here. And I will keep an eye on them.</p> <p><b>Sally</b>, my husband indulges me a lot. But I think he is grateful for the relief duty the forum provides I agree that velvet would be a good counterpoint to the stripes.</p> <p><b>Jenni</b>, that duster is awesome. A teal velvet coat or jacket would be fantastic. I would like something structured, single breasted and with a mandarin collar. I can practically see it. Just need to find it.</p> <p><b>The Cat</b>, I don't have any plans to take it into summer as yet. Mostly because fabrics like velvet and brocade would be hard to incorporate in our heat. But maybe a dark romantic lite version. Thanks for all your suggestions, which I am going to keep in mind.&nbsp; I am using "dark" to cover elements that are harder, tougher or more somber. To me silver has a certain fierceness to it that reads tough and gold reads warm and soft. Of course, a lot would depend on the individual pieces.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Lisa</b>, it's funny that you mention Stevie Nicks. Every time I start thinking about this project I get that Stevie Nicks song "Leather and Lace" in my head. That being such a dark romantic combination of elements. I actually think of her style as more dark bohemian than dark romantic. I do adore her however. Love your bag too.</p> <p><b>Sara</b>, thanks for the vote of confidence.</p> <p><b>Diana</b>, your layering of pearls is exactly the sort of look that I have in mind. I have dug out some traditional pearls given to me by my grandfather. They are the traditional gold version, but I have a vision of layering them up with other necklaces to achieve a slightly Coco Chanel/ flapper/1920s look. I am also thinking about combining them with filigree necklaces or more modernist chain necklaces (as you have shown here).</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-to-do-%e2%80%9cdark-romance%e2%80%9d#post-1918023 Thu, 10 May 2018 03:45:39 +0000 Gigi 1918023@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This sounds like tons of fun! I can't wait to see your outfits. My only suggestion to you is to check out Free People--not sure if you have them easily available in Australia (though I'm pretty sure at least one of your finds is from Free People). They often have stuff like this. </p>