https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Mon, 18 May 2026 08:29:45 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301591 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 21:29:10 +0000 Cilleena 301591@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great post, Brenda! I'm in the same boat, except my little boy is still nursing. So, I have to consider that when shopping. I didn't think about limiting my color scheme when shopping for winter clothes and now I'm a little stuck with some tops that only go with 1 or 2 jackets/cardis. I'm trying to really study up on how different bloggers remix their items so I do a better job with my spring/summer tops. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301580 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 21:13:37 +0000 MsMary 301580@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brenda, I've lost 50 pounds over the past 11 months and replaced my whole wardrobe from scratch. One thing that helped me was shopping at the consignment store where everything was super-inexpensive. I felt like I could try things out and if I made a mistake it wasn't the end of the world because I hadn't spent a lot of money on any particular piece.</p> <p>Yes, bra fitting for sure! You will be AMAZED at how much better ALL your clothes look when you have some good, properly-fitting bras. Amazed, I tell you! ;)</p> <p>Yes, basics -- jeans, for sure! The rule about jeans is that you just have to go out there and try a bunch of them on, and don't buy them unless they make your rear look FAB! </p> <p>Don't forget about accessories -- scarves, jewelry, belts. I always have a hard time spending money on accessories, but they are what make your outfits really sing, so don't skimp on them or skip them altogether!</p> <p>Have fun!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301539 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 20:24:42 +0000 HeleenH 301539@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh, dear Brenda, your bra's are certainly seen! Probably not the bra itself, but the way they fit is very visible. They can make or break your other clothes. If you have only recently stopped nursing go and get fitted for one bra. If it has been about 2 months ago or more, your breast are probably 'settled' so I think it is safe to get 2 or 3 and you will look and feel so much better! I can tell because I just did this last week (stopped nursing somewhere in December 2010 so I needed new bra's too). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301506 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 19:22:46 +0000 qfbrenda 301506@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You are right about the bra issue. I'm down to 3 bras that aren't silly big and even those are roomy. It's hard for me to want to invest in bras first when they are hidden and shirts are seen by everyone. LOL But I'm sure the shirts would look better with a good bra underneath.</p> <p>I could get through a week. Though most of the pieces are very casual and none are woven... almost all knit t-shirts. </p> <p>I'm excited about trying jeans. I haven't owned a decent pair of jeans in many, many years. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301429 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 17:22:43 +0000 Elly 301429@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brenda-- do you have enough decent fitting clothing to get through a week? In that case I think it is fine to buy the dress if you think it is something you will need or get wear out of. I think Kate's list is great, but more of a ending point than a starting point. If you are decently clothed for a week then you can take your time and add and replace pieces at your own pace. Then again, I don't have small children so I don't ever have to change a couple of times in a day and I do laundry once a week. Two weeks worth of blouses and undies is a great goal for a small wardrobe, but I can totally get by with 7 or 8 tops and 10 undies (especially since all underwear that don't come if a ziploc bag seem to be so expensive anymore-- 15 or 16 pair of underwear can cost 120-300-something dollars!). Also, before buying any fitted tops or dresses I would do the bras first. Depend on the person sometimes a good bra can cause blouses to gape or might allow you to buy the smaller size if you are right on the border. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301424 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 17:11:43 +0000 qfbrenda 301424@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Neat website, Kate. It's wise to plan colors carefully while starting out. Things will go together so much easier!</p> <p>I'm debating... I have a wrap dress I've been planning on ordering, but I might need that money for tops more than a dress. My top selection is really tiny right now. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301393 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 16:36:03 +0000 Kate 301393@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Also, this website can be a great inspiration for a small capsule wardrobe and realizing the remixing potential of your clothes with a limited color palette: <a href="http://www.mycapsulewardrobe.com/page15.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.mycapsulewardrobe.com/page15.htm</a> (this is winter, but summer is on 16, autumn is 17 and spring is 18) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301382 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 16:29:42 +0000 HeleenH 301382@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you for asking this question! I am re-adjusting my wardrobe. I have lost weight too. I am at a point where I could go in the direction of Mrs Frumpy or Mrs Stylish and I try to go the stylish way ;-)<br /> The advice you have got has has kept me busy today, starting with the capsule blog I read lots of other blog entries and I have made my own capsules list (which includes a funeral capsule that consists of items of my MOTG capsule, an accessories capsule and a lingerie capsule). Together with Kates list that is a great startingpoint to find the holes in my wardrobe.<br /> I knew I missed some items (like a cardigan), but now I know what I need that cardigan to do and what else I need. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301378 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 16:27:30 +0000 qfbrenda 301378@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I will definitely use the capsule concept to help me figure it all out. I think that idea is brilliant and logical. :)</p> <p>I haven't gotten new bras, but I definitely need them. LOL I have 4 lbs to go and I've been waiting to hit goal weight to buy jeans or bras. I'm short enough that every lb makes a difference in how things fit. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301356 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 15:48:48 +0000 Lisa 301356@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great adivce in Kate's list. Congrats on your weight loss! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301289 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 13:35:19 +0000 Angie 301289@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Such great advice from the ladies!</p> <p>Congrats on your weight loss and on trying to rebuild your wardrobe. Have you read my post on wardrobe capsuling? That's where I'd start this process, which I see has already been suggested. </p> <p>Have you been for a professional bra fitting since your weight loss? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301242 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 09:16:53 +0000 CocoLion 301242@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brenda -- Thank you for asking this question! I don't need to start from the beginning but I do need to overhaul my wardrobe/closet because I have that "closet filled to the brim but nothing to wear" feeling.</p> <p>I read Angie's post about wardrobe capsules (thanks for the link Jenava!), as well as all of the comments so I could really immerse myself in the topic. Then I made a list of my own wardrobe capsules and as I did this I discovered where I am over-saturated and where I have gaps. I love the way this breaks down the problem, it appeals to my analytical side.</p> <p>As it is a learning experience for me (and others here I suspect), I would love to see how you go about building your wardrobe, so keep us posted! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301222 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 07:29:59 +0000 Jenava 301222@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brenda, you can get away with roomie tops but you need fitted bottoms to go with it. When in doubt just post away...that's the beauty of YLF! Good luck, I'm excited to see what you come up with. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301218 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 06:58:05 +0000 elpgal 301218@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brenda, I know what you mean by properly fitting items feeling too small. This is my most common mistake! I end up buying almost everything too large and realized this only when I posted on the forum or solicited opinions from friends. </p> <p>Jenava, that sounds like a very good strategy to shop by outfit. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301210 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 06:25:44 +0000 qfbrenda 301210@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I forgot... I do have a handle on what colors look good on me. I was actually color-analyzed a few years back and am definitely a "winter". </p> <p>What's a challenge is figuring out what fits. I nursed for so many years that I've gotten used to wearing clothes that are too big. Looser tops make nursing easier. So now when I put on a shirt that actually fits, it feels too small. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301209 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 06:20:56 +0000 qfbrenda 301209@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm pretty sure that's the one, Jenava. Thanks You are right, I'm definitely a denim skirt girl. LOL And thank you for the capsule suggestion, Una (praying I got the name right).</p> <p>Thanks, Kate! I think I need to print that out. LOL It was very helpful. :)</p> <p>Thanks everyone! I'm still open to more suggestions, though the advice I've gotten has been great. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301206 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 05:49:33 +0000 Jenava 301206@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is the one?</p> <p><a href="http://youlookfab.com/2009/06/25/wardrobe-capsules-for-your-lifestyle/" rel="nofollow">http://youlookfab.com/2009/06/.....lifestyle/</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301201 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 05:28:02 +0000 catgirl 301201@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Angie's capsule wardrobe posts really helped me. I wish I was better at searching here, but I'm sure someone can track them down if I can't. I think the key is to figure out what capsules you need, and go from there. It can really narrow you down when there is so much out there to choose. </p> <p>I know I am always ready to buy a fancy cocktail dress, when the reality is that I need one about once a year! Then I remember that's not one of my current capsules. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301197 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 05:13:59 +0000 Jenava 301197@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kate's list is really good. I would definitely add a denim pencil skirt to the mix. You seem like a denim skirt girl! (-: </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301195 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 05:10:41 +0000 Kate 301195@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I did a major overhaul on my first post based on the knowledge that you're a MOTG. I hope it's helpful! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301147 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 03:30:23 +0000 Jenava 301147@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Brenda, why not start by browsing magazines that cater to your preferred style and getting some inspiration? Usually outfits from magazines or fashion blogs can be broken down into components that can be mixed together in many ways. I think basics are different for everyone, depending on your style, your budget, the weather, your lifestyle, etc! For some people, a camel-color blazer is a workhouse, for others a simple short black cardi get the most wear.</p> <p>I would start by making a list of outfits based on inspiration. I keep my list on my blog. For example I love this look:<br /> <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/ci/3/lb/ultimatecloset/ultimatecloset_12.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.shopbop.com/ci/3/lb.....et_12.html</a><br /> The components are: white dress with full skirt, lace-up booties, black cardigan</p> <p>Do this enough, and some consistent pieces will emerge. That way you are buying based on outfits, and not just buying components that should (but might not) go together in a way that you like. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301132 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 02:58:10 +0000 qfbrenda 301132@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, Kate... thanks for all of that. </p> <p>Lifestyle... I'm a homeschooling stay-at-home-mom of 5 boys, so most of my wardrobe needs to consist of MOTG clothes, with some items a little more dressy. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301123 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 02:33:24 +0000 Kate 301123@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm copy/pasting my advice from this thread <a href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/starting-over" rel="nofollow">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....rting-over</a>. </p> <p>ETA here's my MOTG make-over of the list:</p> <p>- 2 perfectly fitting bras<br /> - 2 weeks worth of quality underwear (no visible panty lines!)<br /> - 2-3 pairs of cute, versatile, casual shoes and/or boots<br /> - 2 pairs of dark denim jeans (straight, skinny, or boot cut) that work with all of the shoes<br /> - I pair of dark pants (brown, gray, black, whatever is best for you) that go with at least a pair or two of the shoes<br /> - 14 tops that can be worn with all of the pants, and at least some that will also work with a skirt (for the 1.5 months when it's warm), and each should work with at least 3 of your cardigans and jackets - you can include a couple basic tees, but most should be nice enough that you could wear them without a cardi or jacket to a nice-ish restaurant and feel good about them<br /> - 4 cardigans, each should work with at least 5 of the tops<br /> - 3 jackets/blazers, each should work with at least 5 of the tops<br /> - 1 little "black" dress - doesn't have to be black, but should be versatile enough that you could wear it on a date, to a wedding, to a performance/show, etc.<br /> - 1 fall/winter/spring coat that will keep you warm and dry<br /> depending on your lifestyle:<br /> - 1 snow boots<br /> - 1 each of workout wear (shoes, sports bra, top, pants, layers, etc) (maybe 2 on some, depending on how often you do laundry)</p> <p>With this you have all of your bases covered, and can go a full two weeks without repeating a top. I would make sure that these are all quality pieces that fit you PERFECTLY. All of these pieces should be 10s that flatter, fit, and make you feel great! During my first month (or several) with just the basics, I would spend some time thinking about what was missing. </p> <p>As we get closer to summer, I would add a skirt or two, and a pair or two of bermudas (make sure they work with the tops, cardis, and jackets). And a pair of sandals, or other summery shoes.</p> <p>I spent two semesters studying abroad with about 30 items of clothes, and tops were what I always wanted more of, so I tend to stock up on tops and get by with a minimal number of bottoms and shoes. Some people love a variety of shoes, and some love a variety of accessories. If you don't know which camp you fit into, I would start with the basics and just see what you feel like you need more of, and then slowly add to your collection.</p> <p>Also, if you're starting over on accessories too, I would focus on one hip belt and one waist belt in your go to neutral colors (mine are black and cognac, but yours might be different). I would get 2 neutral scarves and 2 colorful scarves. Add a couple versatile pairs of earrings and an 18" necklace chain with a couple pendants and you're set.</p> <p>Finally, if you're up for limiting yourself to a color palette it can be EXTREMELY helpful at getting the maximum remix potential out of your wardrobe. I've held on to a couple gray and black items, but for the most part I've completely given in to earth colors. I would be happy to say more about this if you're interested! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301121 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 02:27:32 +0000 Isabel 301121@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>First, CONGRATULATIONS !!! Second, not that I will know what to tell you, but do you work outside the home ?</p> <p>I like Bella's idea for casual, to start with a pair or two of jeans </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301119 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 02:16:58 +0000 bella 301119@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh, I forgot but you should start with a bra fitting. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301118 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 02:14:35 +0000 qfbrenda 301118@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>My dominant season is similar to Angie's. I'm in the very wet Pacific Northwest. We have a brief, pretty warm summer from July 5th through the end of August. The rest of the year is wet and cold. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301114 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 02:08:47 +0000 bella 301114@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>A pair of dark wash bootcut jeans, a pair of skinny jeans, a button down shirt, a denim shirt, a p/leather jacket. I have a few long sleeved striped tees that I've been wearing a lot, so I would buy a few of those, too.<br /> What is your dominant season, though? If you are in the south and already into spring, you might want to adjust accordingly. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301109 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 01:54:39 +0000 chewyspaghetti 301109@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congrats on the weight loss!<br /> I've actually done it several times over now, and will probably do it again if I keep losing (I've lost 72 pounds so far and have a goal of 100).<br /> I replace workhorses first- those items that I just can't get go a week without wearing. For me, that's a good pair of jeans, jeggings, ponte knit pants, tunics and jackets for winter and woven dresses for summer. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/if-you-were-starting-from-scratch#post-301105 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 01:50:37 +0000 qfbrenda 301105@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>...how would you build your wardrobe from the ground up? That's literally what I'm doing. I'm down to a weight I haven't been at for many years and almost all of my clothes are too big. I'm not complaining since I'd get hit with tomatoes if I did. LOL But I am trying to figure out what things to get. I want to choose much wore wisely than I have in the past. </p>