https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 21 Apr 2026 07:54:59 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2087669 Wed, 25 Dec 2019 13:21:38 +0000 cindysmith 2087669@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well done! I always like reading these type of posts; I may not act like it right away after reading them, but I do marinate in them and absorb them. Slowly but surely, I'm able to actually incorporate the lessons in these posts into my wardrobe. Thank you for posting this </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086447 Thu, 19 Dec 2019 16:40:50 +0000 Anonymous 2086447@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Love it, but yes to the fun pieces-which can work into the French 5! Those random magpie pieces can end up being the most worn </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086415 Thu, 19 Dec 2019 15:02:11 +0000 Bijou 2086415@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>A brilliant plan to go into the new year with. I really like how you have embraced your style and it shows in your WIW posts, you always look fab. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086412 Thu, 19 Dec 2019 14:51:59 +0000 Christina F. 2086412@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think the work you've done refining your style this year is clear from this post. Brava! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086402 Thu, 19 Dec 2019 14:08:40 +0000 Angie 2086402@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You crack me up </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086394 Thu, 19 Dec 2019 13:53:09 +0000 Helena 2086394@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks Angie ... your wise words have made an impact on my stubborn brain *hugs* </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086387 Thu, 19 Dec 2019 13:37:26 +0000 Angie 2086387@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>*APPLAUSE*</p> <p>To this especially:</p> <p><i>"I refuse to be bossed around by platonic wardrobe ideals, capsules, plans, 'must have' lists, comparisons, and my own insecurities; manage my wardrobe and style mindfully and relax into the process"<br /></i><br />YOU GOT IT, and I'm proud of you. WELL DONE, <b>Helena.</b>&nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086323 Thu, 19 Dec 2019 02:57:09 +0000 Jaime 2086323@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Aw shucks. I do believe abandoning the Platonic wardrobe ideal was my suggestion (with Plato!).&nbsp; Anyway, I agree that the most important thing for you is to appreciate your own style and not feel compelled by outside forces to be more whatever. You have excellent style, your classic looks always have subtle or not so subtle personal twists and you look fantastic!<br />On the other hand, when you have the urge to experiment for your own fun, why not? Trust yourself! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086239 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 20:15:07 +0000 Sal 2086239@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think you have it nailed and agree with your don’t buy list as well.<br /> I will be interested to see how the 5 piece system works for you - I think it could be brilliant. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086227 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 18:55:21 +0000 rachylou 2086227@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well, by fun, I mean trying out everyone else’s style but my own. Lol. But like, I really must stop wondering what it would be like to dress like a host on Good Morning America and Air Frying Rotisserie Chicken. Lol. Y’all know this look </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086223 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 18:46:47 +0000 Helena 2086223@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Slimcat, that's a great point - maybe I should think more in terms of, don't buy some random thing because I'm feeling the pressure to be more "fun" with my clothes ... but it's geniunely something that makes me happy, that's different. I think that's more what I was trying to get at ... thanks so much for sharing your voice of concern; it's appreciated! xx</p> <p>Rachy, I think I might cry if you stopped buying fun items ... but, you have to do what's right for you, so get the noodles out!!</p> <p>Janet, so annoying that the most fun fashion seasons are the shortest *sigh* </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086222 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 18:45:45 +0000 Suz 2086222@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I can't wait to see where you will go with this more relaxed attitude. Everything you say makes a lot of sense.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086221 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 18:39:50 +0000 slim cat 2086221@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm going to be a tiny voice of concern . After a long time not buying "fun" things ( except occasional graphic tee - no many-pedi for me &nbsp;)&nbsp;<br />I'm starving for fun things that I will incorporate in my very casual wardrobe. It's could be depressing as hell ( personal feeling for the last 3 years ). I vote some fun things in a limited budget and limited quantities.&nbsp;<br />Case to the point - I went to the Rack yesterday and got Josef Seibel' metallic sneakers even though I was looking for sensible black boots/shoes ( they all felt boring/uncomfortable/sad &nbsp;). Price was exceptable because it's the older model.<br />So treat yourself occasionally to some fun stuff and do your thing in fashion!&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086216 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 18:32:22 +0000 Janet 2086216@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Good plans! I will need a reminder of that thing about transitional seasons. I'm always tempted but our spring and fall is so short, and I tend to travel in those months -- I need to refrain from acquiring more clothing for seasons we barely experience.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086213 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 18:26:06 +0000 rachylou 2086213@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ohmigosh. I’m stealing your goal of resisting things that are fun but nothing to do with the style plan. This has always been a sore spot for me. I basically need someone to follow me with a wet noodle when I shop and lash me. Lol. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086201 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 17:58:41 +0000 Helena 2086201@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>CG, that's so funny ... I am a big believer that any successful diet needs a cheat day build into it!</p> <p>Deb, lists are downright tyrannical for the rule-oriented, aren't they?</p> <p>notsaf, thanks for being a big inspiration this year! I am not putting any pressure or parameters around the 5 (except for the cautionary notes) - they may turn out to be essentials, statements, completers, or just something new to try ... I am going to take note of what attracts me and see what I can learn.<br />&nbsp;<br />nemosmom, wardrobe broccoli high five haha!!</p> <p>bonnie, YES. I have more than enough clothes for my two face-to-face business meetings a year but scrimp on winter boots. More wardrobe broccoli to eat haha!</p> <p>Robin yes! But the unsettled feeling is temporary and the wardrobe items are permanant (literally when I think of the environmental piece) ... so I am going to *try* to get creative with different ways to deal with this - not to say I won't by something fresh for these seasons ... it's how many somethings that need to be dealt with for me. Glad it's not just me! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086189 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 17:22:08 +0000 Cardiff girl 2086189@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I had a do not buy list last year but after buying things that appeared ONLY on that list all year I decided that this probably wasn’t going to work for me ,l think that your idea of proceed with caution”is probably a better approach as it allows for evolution of style goals over the year.l was nodding along to most of this ,it sounds very sensible.Good luck!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086187 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 17:12:57 +0000 deb 2086187@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lists, oh yes, the lists!!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086185 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 17:09:16 +0000 notsaf 2086185@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Such a good idea to write "notes of self." I can't wait to see what your "statement" pieces are in the new year and to hear how that changes your ways of shopping and dressing. I'm thinking about that approach myself, though it would make sense for me to include accessories (bags, hats, scarves, belts) and jewellery among my statements, and then where does that leave me!? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086183 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 17:00:39 +0000 nemosmom 2086183@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Platonic wardrobe ideals must have come from the ever-brilliant Shevia! Your plan and goals sound perfect. I am with you on the no buy list (and laughed at "shut up, list"!!) and super excited to cheer you on in the new year!&nbsp; To wardrobe broccoli! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086156 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 16:11:20 +0000 Bonnie 2086156@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I really enjoyed reading your musings. It sounds like you have got a great plan for next year. I've never done this and probably should be doing something similar. What resonated with me most on first reading was the paragraph on Activities &amp; Lifestyle. Although I'm older and retired, our wardrobe needs sound much the same. These are categories I need to concentrate on this year. My Out and About Capsule and Dressy Capsules are overfilled but so fun to buy for.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086138 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 15:43:53 +0000 RobinF 2086138@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great musings. I love the idea of a "do not buy" list. I often have to stop myself from getting things that will just reduce the wear of something I already have, just because I like it. Although I do like variety so sometimes it helps ward off boredom.&nbsp;</p> <p>Also agree about shoulder season. I get so bored by the end of winter that I hate everything in my closet. Too tempting to buy just for the sake of having something different.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/musings-on-2020-style-direction---a-few-more-thoughts#post-2086130 Wed, 18 Dec 2019 15:19:13 +0000 Helena 2086130@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi friends, last week I posted that my <a rel="nofollow" href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/2020-style-resolution---documenting-it-before-i-over-think-it-d">2020 style resolution is to milk my style</a>. This is my primary and overarching imperative for 2020. I did spend a little time reflecting and writing out a few more specific thoughts about where I think my style is going (important distinction - not where it *should* go, but where it seems to be naturally evolving):<i></p> <p></i><b>Style words</b>: Classic Ease</p> <p><b>Key goals</b>: Build on my solid wardrobe using the "French 5" approach (without becoming zealous about numbers); refuse to be bossed around by platonic wardrobe ideals (I think this was <b>Shevia </b>or <b>Nemosmom's </b>term and I just love it), capsules, plans, 'must have' lists, comparisons, and my own insecurities; manage my wardrobe and style mindfully and relax into the process<br /><b><br />Activities &amp; Lifestyle</b><i><b></b>:&nbsp;</i>From a wardrobe perspective, this ranges from very casual and outdoor casual to smart casual. Milk it! This means enjoying jeans and a sweater or t most days in the colder months, shorts and a t-shirt (or an easy dress) in the warmer months, and elevated version of these for smart casual occasions.</p> <p><b>Colour</b>: For the colder months, black is the primary neutral, with the odd small touch of light gray. Main colours are burgundy, deep green, and other deep neutrals or 'nearly neutrals' (chocolate, deep blue). My&nbsp;<br />'planned outlier' (thank you for the concept <b>notsaf</b>!) seems to be red these days. For the warmer months, navy replaces black, and white becomes a secondary neutral. Light blue and pink become key colours, along with some gray mixed with white, or other soft colours. My 'planned outlier' seems to be blue-greens like teal or jade.&nbsp; <i>Given the primarily neutral nature of my wardrobe, adding in a random colour is no big deal!</i> That said, brights (and bold prints) are not speaking to me just now; we'll see if that changes when the weather does. I also have a desire to get a lot of wear out of *most* wardrobe pieces, so discipline in avoiding the temptation to novelty too often is a good muscle to build (not unlike broccoli, which I hate but eat because it's good for me lol).</p> <p><b>Things to buy</b>: The only thing currently on my "must get" list is white shorts to replace my current pair which I love and wear so much that they are rapidly devolving into tat.</p> <p><b>Things NOT to buy</b>: I forget who mentioned having this sort of list recently, but it's a brilliant idea! I am thinking of it as a big "proceed with caution" flag rather than a hard and fast restriction. On this list for me: <ul> <li>brights and bold prints (not feeling them right now)</li> <li>statement/colourful shoes or pants (love them, rarely if ever wear them)</li> <li>things that a list told me to buy (shut up, list)</li> <li>things that are "fun" but don't relate to my overall plan (as mentioned, try scratching this itch with a mani, lippie, or small accessory first)</li> <li>things that are unlikely to see regular wear, <i>unless </i>they are being purchased for a specific necessary event/purpose/function</li> </ul> <b>Two more 'notes to self</b>' (please feel free to call me on these if you see it): <ul> <li><b>beware the temptations of the transition seasons</b>. At both these times I am SO OVER the extreme weather and I become very tempted by the changeover of clothing seasons. While it's a great time to try something new, I don't need to go nuts over it; just allow an outlier or two and enjoy :)</li> <li><b>beware the temptation to overhaul my entire style</b>. This usually happens around September, when my kids go back to school and my part-time job tends to be quiet and I question what on earth I'm doing with my life Whatever the answer is, changing my entire style is not it lol!</li> </ul> And that's that - posting for accountability!! Thanks for reading if you could stand this tome :D</p> <p>xx</p> <p><i></p> <p></i><i></p> <p></i> </p>