https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:53:40 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2136989 Thu, 06 Aug 2020 00:00:13 +0000 Anonymous 2136989@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I found it helpful to write a list of all the potential capsules I could need and want, including weather considerations. A funeral could occur any time of year, rain, snow, heat/humidity, so wouldn't be just one outfit. Whereas a wedding, for example, is more likely to occur in summer- though it could rain. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2136971 Wed, 05 Aug 2020 22:59:55 +0000 unfrumped 2136971@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks all for the responses.&nbsp;<br />I agree with the suggestions above--have been looking much more at things as capsules or potential capsules and preparedness. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2136965 Wed, 05 Aug 2020 22:24:30 +0000 The Cat 2136965@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>unfrumped, yes, good to be prepared, and good to be able to rethink quickly. Sorry that the occasion arose, but I am sure your presence was appreciated.</p> <p>I do something similar to what Barbara Diane mentioned. In particular if planning to be away from home for several days, I will usually bring a few items (decent dress or skirt &amp; top + neat closed-toe shoes + topper) in neutral or nearly-neutral colours that COULD be used for a funeral, but will also be appropriate for other occasions (say, a sudden invitation to an elegant restaurant) and can easily be mixed with other items in my travel wardrobe.</p> <p>Also, when editing my wardrobe each season, I make sure that I have the above mentioned items, which in my case will also be useful for formal or semi-formal meetings and will be remixed with other items for several other occasions and activities. If I discover that I need to replace any of those items (or any other items in my closet, for that matter), I will add it to my "Personal Shopping List" on my cell phone, so that I don't easily forget it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2136622 Mon, 03 Aug 2020 07:52:43 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2136622@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Unfrumped, sorry for your loss. Even though you didn’t wear the items you expected, it sounds like thinking through your wardrobe and this possibility did pay off in that you could choose such an appropriate outfit so easily. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2136621 Mon, 03 Aug 2020 07:32:19 +0000 Barbara Diane 2136621@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Someone posted a few years back about being away from home and needing to fly straight from that location to a funeral. Since then I travel with clothing that would work if necessary. Maybe not the perfect item/s but appropriate. Thanks whoever that was. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2136481 Sun, 02 Aug 2020 01:21:15 +0000 Carla 2136481@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The navy outfit sounds appropriate and respectful. &nbsp;Sorry that the occasion arose, however. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2136423 Sat, 01 Aug 2020 16:09:57 +0000 unfrumped 2136423@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>ETA: not an hour or so after one of my replies, we received notice that an elderly member of our church had died and there would be a graveside service the next day. I had almost completely forgotten the pandemic issues about gatherings--had been thinking about summer weather and going in and out air-conditioning options as per usual. <br />It was warm and humid and&nbsp; heavy rain was predicted for the exact time. That narrowed things down pretty quickly.&nbsp;</p> <p>I ended up wearing navy linen cropped pants and a navy-tweedy linen knit top I've had for years, with&nbsp; long-sleeves that I push up,&nbsp; and navy loafers that are getting too small. Plus stashing a nylon jacket and umbrella.</p> <p>--it was not raining when we left home,&nbsp; but we drove through a thunderstorm and it was drizzling in the cemetary, and we walked through/around puddles and mud. Physical distancing in masks under umbrellas and most people dressed extremely casually as would suit this environment.&nbsp; It was strikingly different from what we could have done for fellowship and support "before" but at least was something.</p> <p>So that really struck home in 2 ways--preparing is good, being able to re-think quickly is good, and at the end of the day, the clothes aren't in charge. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135989 Wed, 29 Jul 2020 14:18:16 +0000 Minaminu 2135989@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Same as Sal, I have some black pieces from work that could be used for those unfortunate situations. I have a black wool suit that should be given away as I never use if but keep on thinking that I may need it for a funeral. It's best to be prepared for those situations and avoid further stress when it happens. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135973 Wed, 29 Jul 2020 11:09:45 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2135973@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><div>Sal, thanks for your story. I have several black dresses I expect to be able to choose from since this need arise, but a recent post gave me pause when several people said they have never been able to wear things again after wearing them to a parents funeral. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Unfrumped, if you're looking for suggestions, I vote for the tweed blazer, because tweed can be so forgiving of mixes with other colors. <br /></div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135972 Wed, 29 Jul 2020 10:55:48 +0000 Bijou 2135972@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I prefer to wear navy or charcoal grey to a funeral as black is more dramatic and a statement than a softer dark colour on me. I wore this dress and jacket to the funeral of a friend’s Mother in warm weather. The building had air con, so I was not hot with the jacket on. Whilst not black, it felt suitable for the ceremony. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135954 Wed, 29 Jul 2020 04:17:59 +0000 slim cat 2135954@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Same as @Sal - a few work clothes in black with classic style that could be worn on such occasion ( flats as well ).&nbsp;However some of those were last year purchases since I didn't have enough pieces for job interviews.&nbsp;<br />I do love @Runcarla story of an unusual dress code funeral - my sympathy on loosing a friend in our difficult times. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135951 Wed, 29 Jul 2020 03:31:08 +0000 Sal 2135951@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It feels wrong on one level to plan for this but on the other hand I know how useful it is to have something appropriate.&nbsp; I prefer not to have a specific funeral dress or capsule but to have a few simple classic work clothes that can be worn.</p> <p>For my Mum's funeral last year I wore an outfit that I often wear to work.&nbsp; I was speaking and wanted something I felt confident in.&nbsp; I have worn this since and don't feel uncomfortable about that whereas the culottes I was wearing when she actually passed - I never felt the same about them again. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135950 Wed, 29 Jul 2020 03:26:05 +0000 rachylou 2135950@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hmm. I should probably try on my funeral dress. Point taken. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135911 Tue, 28 Jul 2020 19:05:13 +0000 Carla 2135911@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It’s funny, but not really, that the first ‘capsule’ that I put together after retirement was a ‘funeral’ capsule. &nbsp;Also, I have two black coats in a storage closet that have seen better days, but that I’m holding on to because a bright blue puffer or red spring coat isn’t the thing at a service. I’ve always thought that navy blue was a good alternative to black as well.</p> <p>DH has lost almost 25lbs since retirement, but I’ve made sure he has something sufficiently formal and serious for memorials and funerals. &nbsp;The last thing a person needs is to feel inadequate and disrespectful at this type of occasion. &nbsp;On the other hand, there is always the possibility that the deceased person may have made a ‘no black’ request for their memorial. &nbsp;DH attended an informal wake (yes, physical distancing and masks) for a golfing buddy just last week. &nbsp;<b>L&nbsp;</b>was known for his sense of humour which translated to his mode of dress as well. (He was the guy at the Christmas party in a holiday themed onesie). &nbsp;Everyone was asked to wear a shirt with a Hawaiian print to the event, since that was one of his signatures.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135899 Tue, 28 Jul 2020 18:06:36 +0000 nemosmom 2135899@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You are wise to plan ahead for those events that come up you feel unprepared for. Especially these days. And, being home more certainly allows the time to plan everything out. It sounds like you have considered everything you need to complete a somber ensemble for both warm and cold weather. Don't forget an extra pair or two of stockings!&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135883 Tue, 28 Jul 2020 16:37:30 +0000 unfrumped 2135883@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Joy, thanks--you are exactly right. The main outfit itself required thinking so that fits and proportions are right for what I am able to wear now. But I also have out the likely handbags/totes, and am also planning to extend to the appropriate related casual&nbsp; outfits that might go along--for example, when just at home with family I can wear sneakers, "normal clothes", and would want to.&nbsp; I am working on a clothing list inventory to name the specific item, in case some are in rotation and I need to collect them, but can do so easily if know what they are. Plus restocking travel&nbsp; toiletries and also updating my travel list of other things I need to take.<br />This is a little easier since, absent the most extreme emergency (which would not be a funeral), we are not going to fly anywhere--would be taking car.&nbsp;<br />In addition am preparing a "COVID 19" supply caddy for the car. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135864 Tue, 28 Jul 2020 15:30:50 +0000 Anonymous 2135864@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Good for you in planning a summer funeral capsule. When you need it, you may be away from home and have no time or place to shop. I was at my parents place in a different state from the rest of the family when my mother died unexpectedly. My dad was alive but was not able to think straight and did not drive. This was July so I had nothing appropriate with me and family were coming I had rarely, if ever, seen, so I needed to look ok if not cheer myself a bit.<br /> When someone close to you dies, there are a million small and large details to handle from service and food to the florist, shopping for a casket or urn, making endless sad informative calls after service details are sorted And then finding hotel rooms for people, and only a Walmart within a hundred miles as a place to put together a funeral outfit when you are already sleep deprived and stressed. You need a capsule ready for you or someone else to grab for you.<br /> Good luck. These events often come up unexpectedly. It is good to at least make a list. Include makeup and any beauty tools and coats or jackets you may want. Don’t forget accessories and underwear, stockings, and such. Plan for at least 2 events like a wake and funeral and the after funeral dinner (probably still in your funeral clothes but you may want a change of shoes, especially if you have been walking in a muddy or dusty cemetery. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/occasion-specific-outfit-creation#post-2135857 Tue, 28 Jul 2020 14:51:58 +0000 unfrumped 2135857@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The idea of having go-to outfits for various occasions, roles and goals has always seemed important to me, but sometimes elusive, sometimes due to my own failings--not following a list or plan when adding items , or&nbsp; &nbsp;not taking time to put things together in detail--but also&nbsp; the vagaries of changes in&nbsp; fits and comfort, or realizing a&nbsp; &nbsp;wardrobe workhorse might be wearing out.</p> <p>I actually woke up in the middle of the night a few days ago with a sudden concern that I was not sure I had a "somber occasion outfit", aka funeral outfit, at the ready. And specifically, one, or ones, I could grab on very short notice, without taking hours to go through things. And especially for hot weather, since that tends to be harder for good, serious clothing.&nbsp; .</p> <p>Thankfully, I don't have any such occasion on the near radar. I didn't even want to put it in the post title lest it create concerns! I admit to some guilt, maybe,&nbsp; about adding some casual items and&nbsp; &nbsp;a few unplanned "fun" purchases during the pandemic and new lifestyle, and while not having&nbsp; the desire to do major wardrobe editing and culling when not&nbsp; knowing what is ahead.&nbsp;</p> <p>But I recently got sort of re-energized to do a bit&nbsp; more--not quite "I've got my groove back", or a big epiphany of a new style, but a step forward of feeling more confident that I can recognize what I like and don't like, and especially regarding fits and proportions.</p> <p>So, making use of the free-standing clothing rail I got awhile back, I started pulling out all of my dark neutrals--toppers, tops, bottoms, shoes--. I say started, because I kept remembering, oh, this also has potential also, hadn't thought of that.</p> <p>I haven't finished yet so there is no done and done to report. Sorry! . It is very hot now and I have had to do in spurts. Here is what I am learning:</p> <p>Having a fairly large wardrobe that had been generally neutral-rich for work helps a lot and that is my base--I really want to use toppers and pants I already have because I don't really need to add more or upgrade this category now that retired, for now.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;You would think it would be slam-dunk easy. But my work outfits were built around what goes under a lab coat, not wearing a topper all day, so even though I wore jackets and blazers to go to work a lot of days, I often used toppers that were slightly more casual or in colors that I would not wear to a funeral. In fact that was part of the strategy for item juxtaposition . In addition, I could skate a bit on how happy I was or was not, with the "back view" or the proportions. I also omit entirely or could just wear outerwear, so a lot of my tops were not planned for layering under a closer-fitting jacket, or might be in less neutral colors,or are warmer, for the hospital.&nbsp; Plus, for current type of weather, I wore lighter colors and some lighter or brighter footwear.</p> <p>I am narrowing it down to about 5 toppers and 3-4 pants that fit well, including a pair I added in early spring (see Find). These Vince navy pants are almost full-length on me, not so cropped.&nbsp;</p> <p>My color palette is, surprise, black, navy, gray, and moody blue or blue-gray. Burgundy might be in the mix, but I find that just a burgundy or berry top with mix and match sometimes isn't as preferable to me as more tonal dressing.</p> <p>Hence I have had some luck with a kind of blue-gray for tops or toppers and also like column of color with contrasting jacket. For warmer weather, my almost-signature style "serious but not super dressy event"&nbsp; top is a dressy T style, such as a drapey modal knit, or silk or silk-like similar which can tuck in.&nbsp;<br />I have both navy and black items somewhat randomly due to what is available and because, as above, I often did not have to have a "complete' outfit. I know that navy and black can mix and have done so, but so far my pieces might not lend themselves to looking intentional for that, nor my environmental norm.&nbsp;</p> <p>Footwear is okay but a weak link. Will use only flats, and I am needing to size up sllightly, and give up tapering. And sneakers are not okay for this! But I have 2 ankle strap flats that are okay for now, and 2 loafers that are okay, but just barely.&nbsp;</p> <p>Probable wardrobe holes are going to be footwear and one or 2 light-weight tops. For shoes I will think about&nbsp; just one pair that will work for this plus future wear--such as a better-fitting black loafer.<br />And, my beloved AT rayon knit dressy T's are showing wear, so I may look for very specific replacements in one or 2 neutrals, and low-to moderate price point. Have ordered a few to try.</p> <p>If you are still awake at this point, congrats!&nbsp; I have actually gone on to start editing other wardrobe categories a bit, so maybe can encourage others in same situation. Showing a few finds of what I have, but do not have all items to show. The Anthro jacket I have is in black.</p> <p>ETA I have posted an update on what arose.</p> </p>