YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long) https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 14 Apr 2026 23:35:40 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php SarahD8 on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2279018 Sat, 27 Aug 2022 16:08:29 +0000 SarahD8 2279018@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ JenniNZ those are fab shoes! And I love the laces — great to see an example of ribbon laces in a real life closet. Super cool with the doubled color! Kellygirl, ahhh, thanks! Glad to know that descriptor resonates to someone who is, you know, outside my head haha! kellygirl on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278973 Sat, 27 Aug 2022 04:34:37 +0000 kellygirl 2278973@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Omg! Girl on the moors! Yes! That is a great descriptor for your style! I love it. Have to come back and read this thread more carefully --my brain is done right now. Just had to share my light bulb moment! Jenni NZ on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278935 Fri, 26 Aug 2022 23:29:05 +0000 Jenni NZ 2278935@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Just an idea ( I know these particular shoes are not right for you) about laces/ribbons: when I bought these shoes years ago they had the ugliest plain laces, so I went and bought some cream and black ribbons to match them and was so happy how it turned out. SarahD8 on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278928 Fri, 26 Aug 2022 22:24:21 +0000 SarahD8 2278928@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Glad to have another upvote for the elastic laces! I cannot believe I have let these boots with their way-too-long laces boss me around for so long, but I'm looking forward to bringing that era to a close. :-)  Anonymous on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278920 Fri, 26 Aug 2022 21:46:12 +0000 Anonymous 2278920@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Big yes to the cream and the burgundy tall boots! They go well with the flowy heavier fabric skirts, and keep legs warm too. Yes to elastic laces too. I put them on my trainers and they definitely make things easier. SarahD8 on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278841 Fri, 26 Aug 2022 14:57:52 +0000 SarahD8 2278841@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Zaeobi, thank you for the Jones Bootmaker info! Very helpful. Also I really like the idea of elastic laces! I would love to get more wear out of those gray boots. I can totally see you in some kind of duster cardi/topper too! "Polished drama" -- yes to careful and sleek fit in strategic places. I have a feeling that polished drama would mean something different to a different person (could turn very Cruella De Vil!)...I need to keep things a little windswept too. Angie, yay! Keep me posted about the baking! Thank you for the boot finds. I do like these options and am adding them to the hopper. Will likely ponder a bit and see where my emotions take me. Re: ribbon laces, I think something low-contrast, so it is just a subtle detail rather than the focus of the outfit. Although I am very much liking Zaeobi's idea of elastic laces (and maybe clip-on bow) now too. Lots to ponder while I stock up on socks.... Angie on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278833 Fri, 26 Aug 2022 14:25:45 +0000 Angie 2278833@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ SarahD8, fool is yummy too. I’m excited to get the cake book! I’ll let you know what I bake first. But back to your style…. <div> </div><div>Fair Isle socks are on your shopping list!</div><div> </div><div>Lace ribbons for the grey boots are a fab idea! Which colour? </div><div> </div><div>(Burgundy boots are my “black boots” too )</div><div> </div><div>YES to tall burgundy boots. You will wear them! I like the clog-esque cognac boots too. Here is the cream boot. Nice stompy vibe! Find #1. #2 - is waterproof, and like your hair. (I mean the colour! Would be nice to have rain-proof hair too......) #3 - reminds of your new sandals. Boot cousin!  #4 - tall boot version of your Find.  </div> Zaeobi on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278801 Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:57:03 +0000 Zaeobi 2278801@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ @Sarah that collarless long cardigan (or is it a coat?) you posted in your skirt inspo comment is wonderful - just the sort of thing I've been looking for to inject some 'polished drama' too! I get annoyed with collared toppers because I like to wear a scarf in cooler weather so I don't want the neckline to interfere with it. (PS - I think that 'polished drama' is what you're getting at by wanting the 'moors' look but not quite the Kiera photos that @runcarla posted, right? E.g. more fitted toppers rather than dropped shoulders, snug boot shafts instead of the slightly 'flowerpot' look to your wellies, etc?) As for the grey boots, have you considered elastic laces instead (for easy on & off)? You could then clip a bow to it (one of those shoe clips) if you wanted the effect of ribbon but without the hassle Am jealous of your boot collection - oh to have the need for that much rainy day/ cold footwear again! I can see what you mean about the grey buckled boots though - it definitely was a popular look in the noughties, so depends whether you wish to revisit that era. Jones Bootmaker is a UK brand I believe (at least they have a shop in my hometown lol) - from what I remember of my browsing, the do indeed run a little narrow (both in calf & foot). I like their styles but sadly they usually don't fit me Comfort can be a bit hit & miss too, much like Clarks these days - sometimes their leather soles can be a bit stiff (some people prefer that in a shoe though). SarahD8 on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278741 Fri, 26 Aug 2022 00:03:37 +0000 SarahD8 2278741@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ LaPed, yes, hip hip hooray for stone fruit this year! I just had a very plum plum with lunch. And I hear you on the usefulness of "want" vs. "need." For me, I think embracing that honesty about want vs. need is somehow helping me to view style/textiles as a legitimate hobby, which (without turning our discussion here into an Entire Women's Studies Course) has some interesting and useful consequences. Very good point about the best harmonies being a little offbeat. Or, the best rhymes being slant! Angie well now MY toes are tickled! I am so happy that you bought the book and I hope you enjoy it as much as I have! I don't think I've ever had mess but I do love fool which I think is in the same genre. Absolutely YES to fair isle socks with my ankle boots (I think that pic you posted is even in my pinterest somewhere, haha!). Fair isle socks have become a wardrobe basic that is signature to my style -- I do wear through them quickly and should probably replenish my stock a bit before the cold weather hits. Re: those gray ankle boots -- I was also thinking about putting ribbon laces in them, I'll post an inspo pic below. Ah, burgundy as "my black" for footwear! I like that formulation, a very keen insight. Also I appreciate your defense of the "novel want." Point very much taken! As for particular boots -- I do like that Miz Mooz style and was noticing that it comes in burgundy as well. I *think* I want the cream ones to be more edgy/stompy. I have been looking at these that come in both cream and burgundy (sorry I can't Finds): <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/caslon-miller-water-resistant-chelsea-boot-women/5574248?color=BLACK&utm_content=33817189095&utm_term=aud-505812345501:pla-324627195057&utm_channel=low_nd_shopping_standard&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=662927176&adpos=&creative=145503088523&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&acctid=21700000001689570&dskeywordid=92700049882462562&lid=92700049882462562&ds_s_kwgid=58700005470151424&ds_s_inventory_feed_id=97700000007631122&dsproductgroupid=324627195057&product_id=29023220&merchid=1243147&prodctry=US&prodlang=en&channel=online&storeid=&locationid=9033307&targetid=aud-505812345501:pla-324627195057&campaignid=662927176&adgroupid=33817189095&gclid=CjwKCAjwu5yYBhAjEiwAKXk_eI1lXdEq2kBOhlCt4ZNNpFJCnBcjUJlfaAqaVrFfcJbgTl0Rsv7erhoC4hcQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds"><a href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/caslon-miller-water-resistant-chelsea-boot-women/5574248?color=BLACK&amp" rel="nofollow">https://www.nordstrom.com/s/ca.....K&amp</a>;</a> And on your tan boot suggestion, these (in Bourbon) crossed my path today and I like the clog boot vibe: <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.portlandleathergoods.com/products/ankle-bootie?variant=39865277251666">https://www.portlandleathergoo.....5277251666</a> For tall boots: I had never heard of this company, Jones Bootmaker, but I am intrigued esp bc they appear to have narrow calf fits: <a rel="nofollow" href="https://us.jonesbootmaker.com/products/slim-fit-leather-riding-boot-carm28504-313-429?variant=34519801856136&currency=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gclid=CjwKCAjwu5yYBhAjEiwAKXk_eHmmmqhtyHu3zbssmxORKAZxPrBpMWQJwHMpeCjXtmn9tX_tS7_HNhoC1VwQAvD_BwE">https://us.jonesbootmaker.com/.....ant=345198</a> Stagiaire Fash on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278737 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 23:25:39 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2278737@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Darn! Miz Mooz’s work in occupied land is not something I can support. If I decide I do indeed want similar shoes, I’ll have to look for other makers. Angie on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278736 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 23:20:43 +0000 Angie 2278736@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Stag, it's a Miz Mooz shoe. Nice quality. Comfy. Good brand. Nice company. Visited and interviewed the manufacturer and owner in NYC 12 years ago.  I find their shoes short - so size up, maybe. Stagiaire Fash on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278734 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 23:10:57 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2278734@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Angie, that shoe is awesome! Makes me want to figure out ways to use it, lol Angie on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278731 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 22:58:04 +0000 Angie 2278731@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ And wonder if these are of interest:  Angie on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278728 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 22:36:18 +0000 Angie 2278728@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ SarahD8, SNACKING CAKES. Oh my word. There are few things more joyful than snacking on cake with a hot cuppa! That’s AWESOME. Bought the book! Thanks! (I’m making Eaton Mess on Saturday. Do you like Mess?). <div>This tickled my toes and made my day  WOOOHOOOO! </div><div> </div><div> "I am feeling really excited too -- more excited than I've felt about style in quite a while. AND it's combined with more confidence than I've felt since, well, maybe ever" Yay, you!  </div><div>Thanks for your boot inventory. Cognac boots are wardrobe essentials for your style. Love that!</div><div> </div><div>Sounds like burgundy boots are becoming an essential too, and “your black boots". </div><div> </div><div>How about adding fun shuffle socks to the short grey lace-up boots? Like a Fair Isle sock that works with your signature Fair Isle knitwear and I think Scandi heritage? See pic.</div><div> </div><div>YES, to tan or cream boots to lighten up our VERY grey and wet Seattle Winters, and matching your dark blonde hair! Make the "novel want” happen. Give in to that emotion. That is part of what makes fashion fun and exciting :)</div><div> </div><div>(Thanks for the kind words, Suz and La Ped!)</div> Stagiaire Fash on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278712 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 19:27:50 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2278712@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ LaPed, I agree. Thinking I should get a thing is deadly. LaPed on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278708 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 19:00:51 +0000 LaPed 2278708@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Beautiful cakes! High five! Hasn't it been an amazing year for stone fruit? Every time I've bought peaches or nectarines this summer they've been absolutely delicious. Not a single bland or mealy one so far. Your point about novel wants feeling more urgent is so astute! Could it be that we just get so burned out shopping for the same old essentials and chasing impossible HEWIs that bumping those newer wants to the top of the list gives us the little jolt of excitement we're craving when we shop? The nice thing about the lens of "want" -- for me -- is that I can justify buying the thing I actually want, rather than settling or making do with something just to fill a hole. This is the crux of every "which color should I buy?" thread I've started on YLF, like the fleece hoodie I was hemming and hawing over a couple weeks ago. Obviously I still struggle. But if you're going to buy something just because you want it, you better get the version you actually want. I suspect I buy less when I ask myself, "Do I want this?" rather than "Do I need this?" because it prevents me from purchasing those practical/back-up/completer items that are easy to justify but then languish in the back of the closet, e.g., the boring black pants on the clearance rack which, in theory, go with every top you own but which, in practice, you will never wear...  I think Angie is a great role model because she proves that you can have a wardrobe that is full of pieces that are high impact (visually and emotionally) and is still cohesive. You can achieve a harmonious whole without being bland and basic. To push it even further, are good harmonies *ever* bland and basic? :)   SarahD8 on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278699 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 17:55:42 +0000 SarahD8 2278699@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ That sounds very sensible, Jules -- both the baking and the no-buy list! Glad you found the skirt looks inspiring too. Jules on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long/page/2#post-2278694 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 17:00:03 +0000 Jules 2278694@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Oh and I adore those skirt looks! Jules on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278684 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 16:47:41 +0000 Jules 2278684@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thoughtful and complete analysis indeed! You’ve also inspired me to bake. It’s going to rain tonight and I need a comforting activity - and have some of our amazing local peaches on hand too. I especially relate to the part about getting distracted by shiny things and not prioritizing long-time list items enough. I also have a habit of over-buying certain categories that are easier, cheaper etc (t shirts when I need wovens, more cute sneakers when I need real pants). Having a ‘do not buy’ list has helped me there. I try to review my list of ‘needs, wants and nos’ periodically. It helps me stay focused. SarahD8 on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278678 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 16:26:07 +0000 SarahD8 2278678@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Barbara Diane, yes! So glad that question was useful to you too! Olive Green, ooh I'm very intrigued by your quilted boots. Do post more if you can! I will look out for any WIWs featuring them. And welcome back! SF, yes exactly -- I sometimes find myself, when reaching for my cognac riding boots yet again, wishing that I could switch things up a bit. I don't feel that yen for variety regarding my ankle boots (though I might once the burgundy ones truly bite the dust). So that was my reasoning behind putting the tall boots at the top of the list.  That said, I think Angie is correct that I can't buy what isn't there (even though I actually buy most of my footwear at retail rather than secondhand, the principle still applies) and I will need to be guided by what's available as well as EMOTIONS. Your white Sorels are a great example of following your emotions! And I can vouch for Sorels being high quality and durable (knock on wood!). Actually my black stompy boots came in a kind of off-white, and I wish I'd bought that color as well. I keep hoping that they'll pop up secondhand, but so far no dice. Also wish Sorel would repeat the style -- I would duplicate the heck out of it! -- but they seem to be on a wedge boot jag these days, sigh. I will also give some thought to whether I might be able to wear those black La Canadiennes in a way that scratches my itch for drama -- if so, that might give them a bit of a renaissance. A big lesson of the structured playing around with summer clothes that I have been doing is that my wardrobe can often do a LOT more than I realized it could, if I can just manage to shake off the limits imposed by how I usually wear an item and look at things with a fresh eye. Olive Green on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278613 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 11:33:44 +0000 Olive Green 2278613@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Enjoyed all the musings. Here for the cake and the boots.  Long time lurker here, rejoined after a few years and two moves. And a pandemic… You would think boots would be a priority here in cowboy country west of Fort Worth. And they are, but muck boots, mostly, for mud when it rains. They are based on English riding boots, burgundy rubber.  After moving from Taos area, I have some awesome quilted olive green (!) tall boots, and some serious mountain hiking ankle boots that are quite old and may have been cognac.  Like you, been thinking skirts and love the blanket looking ones in plaid patterns. I don’t often wear pattern in a non-accessory, but Hmm.  Anyway, can recommend quilted fabric boots, both ankle and tall, as lightweight and very warm. If I figure out Finds, will put them up.  Stagiaire Fash on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278599 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 08:16:40 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2278599@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My earlier endorsement of white ankle boots is under reconsideration. I somehow was focusing only on the fall cognac boots, because that’s what I associate with you and your style. Photos show you have many more than that. But between the 2 pairs that are now mostly gear and the trailblazers that are now ready to step aside, it seems you don’t have so many tall boots, effectively just the cognac and the Canadiennes. But on the short side, the beloved burgundies are on their way out. I suppose the analytical questions to ask are if they ratios of tall:short boot wears tall:short boots in your closet match, and whether that’s how you want it to be, or if there are days you reach for something that isn’t there, and find a fantasy or a ghost of some pair’s former self. But idk if you really need analysis at this point. Maybe you can be me and jump at whatever grabs your fancy. The long story of how I got the white Sorels is that while shopping for tall, sleek, brown & black boots, I came across a fun pair of white ankle boots. I added them to the order, was delighted with the look when they came, couldn’t get up the enthusiasm for any of the others. The forum said white ankle boots didn’t fit the remit. True enough, but I liked them. So I wore them. They gave me blisters and, being Polyurethane, would never stretch to actually fit. So I tried on several other pairs of white ankle boots, on two continents. The Sorels were a snug fit and, being leather, will eventually fit exactly my foot. They are well made and I expect them to last & last. So my advice, seeing that you’ve got tall & short basics covered, is to see what grabs you and follow it over hill & dale and across the moors. Barbara Diane on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278577 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 00:33:55 +0000 Barbara Diane 2278577@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I especially like your realization about asking if a purchase furthers your style goals. SarahD8 on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278575 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 00:09:30 +0000 SarahD8 2278575@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ First things first! Dessert -- the cakes are from <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.amazon.com/Snacking-Cakes-Simple-Anytime-Cravings/dp/0593139666/ref=asc_df_0593139666/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=459685515341&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14398737008566873321&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9033307&hvtargid=pla-919778861450&psc=1">Snacking Cakes, by Yossi Arefi</a>. Folks, you can get the Kindle version for just $4.99 (!!) I cannot recommend the book highly enough! Here is a link to the recipe for <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/recipes/2137/almondy-plum-cake">Almondy Plum Cake</a>, which I adapted for the second pic I posted. Angie, WOW!! Thank you for your detailed and supportive comments! I am nodding along, taking notes, and basking in the glow of your lovely "novel." YES. I hear you about staying in tune with my emotions and letting style be an art and not just a logical exercise. (I really, really do, I promise -- it is just sometimes harder for me to get that on the page/screen!) I'm glad you're excited about my plans! I am feeling really excited too -- more excited than I've felt about style in quite a while. AND it's combined with more confidence than I've felt since, well, maybe ever. Suz, thank you too for your support! I agree with you that Angie and Brooklyn are great models for incisive yet emotionally rich style goals. I particularly like that Brooklyn's lists & style words are not always literal. That really resonates with me as a writer, and intersects with my interest in clothing/textiles as narrative. Maybe you too? High-fiving my fellow thrifter-for-drama. Absolutely agree that thrifting is a great way to try out new style directions (and surprises that call to us!) at a reasonable price point (and with lower impact on the planet). Plus, let's be honest, I'm not an expert at this and sometimes I have to do some trial and error and nose my way there! I LOVED your story about your best ever skirt suit. I hope you find something that makes you just as happy this year! SF, high-fiving that you get the vibe, and Sal, yes -- we have to trick ourselves sometimes but whatever works! Ok, I am back with some musings about tall boots and ankle boots! I thought it was interesting to see the differences of opinion about which ought to be my highest priority, and the differences between those who keep more minimal vs. moderate sized wardrobes. I thought I would pull out my boot collection and assess. Photo 1: Tall Boots Green wellies. These are worn as gear at this point. I used to wear these as fashion (back when everyone was wearing Hunter wellies all the time, remember?), a very literal interpretation of Runcarla's Keira Knightley inspo pics, but have moved on from that a bit. They are still good for field reporting, visiting the pumpkin patch, and trips to my BIL's beach house on the rainy coast. Black snow boots. Semi-gear. These have been with me on winter trips to Amsterdam, Montreal, and Stockholm -- gosh that makes them almost 9 years old at this point, and they're still in very good shape -- and I'll wear them snowshoeing etc. but I usually choose something a bit less clunky for tooling about town. Black. I have moved somewhat away from black footwear on this leg of my style journey so these don't get heavy wear nowadays but sometimes they are just the thing. They're very high quality (La Canadienne) and fit like a dream (actually because of the tailored ankle they are the ones I'm most likely to wear with long skirts), I expect to own them pretty much forever. Gray. These are, hmm, maybe 12 years old at this point? They were bought on a whim on deep discount and they set me off on a new style direction (I had never owned tall boots before!). However they're quite worn, and I've refined my style a bit in the interim -- I no longer prefer the buckles on the side and would like to replace with something more streamlined. Cognac. Unreserved love. Took me 2-3 years to find the ones, but they are The Ones. These are my newest tall boots, and maybe 4 or 5 years old now. Photo 2: Ankle boots Black stompy. I love these and wear them a ton -- definitely my most worn black footwear currently, as I've mentioned elsewhere I think the shine of the patent mitigates the heaviness of black. Great for adding edge to my vintagey outfits. Black classic. See above: these are also by La Canadienne, fit like a dream, and I expect to own them forever. Gray. I don't wear these a ton because of the laces (it's just quicker to throw on a pull on or zip up pair of boots) but I just got a brainstorm about something that might make me reach for them more often. Cognac. 'Nuff said. Burgundy. Basically was trying to duplicate the function of my black stompy boots. It worked! Unfortunately a little too well -- these are showing wear (much more so than the black, even though they are a year younger, in fact they're my newest ankle boots) and the patent is starting to delaminate. Disappointing. They might get through another winter, but probably not 2. What I learned:  1. I think it's super interesting how parallel my tall boot and ankle boot collections are. Stompy black, classic black, gray, cognac, something else. 2. Angie is right -- "we live in Seattle. ALL COMFORTABLE BOOTS WILL BE WORN!!!" 2. Good quality boots have HIGH STAYING POWER in my wardrobe. Oh! Runcarla asked what the idea was behind the white/cream ankle boots idea. Mainly it was a strategy to lighten up outfits with a lot of those dark neutrals that I accumulate. I think they would semi-bookend my hair: not quite as accurately as cognac, but they would still have a bookending effect and add a little more drama (there's that word again).  Anyway, I think where I net out with that is that I cannot go wrong with any of the boot possibilities I mentioned, and can allow myself to be guided by (1) EMOTION and (2) what presents itself at retail. I am striding forth with confidence! Sal on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278571 Wed, 24 Aug 2022 22:34:49 +0000 Sal 2278571@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Haha Sarah - I don't like people installing rules on me either and with food I prefer to resist rather than never eat...... Suz on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278570 Wed, 24 Aug 2022 22:19:11 +0000 Suz 2278570@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ PS, I LOVE your skirt inspo pics. I could really do with some of those. myself!  In the early-mid 90s. I had the BEST EVER skirt suit. It was a long (midi length) gored skirt in charcoal wool, swishy but not overly full, with a long fitted vest. Yes, long over long, and it totally worked! The reason it worked was the vest had princess seams and was nicely fitted/ tailored, working perfectly with the goring on the skirt. Oh, how sad I was when I wore that suit out (which I did, about a decade in...). It was sensational, totally worked in my (much colder than our current) climate because I could layer tights under with no sticky icky feeling to the skirt. It worked with different heights and styles of boots (I had some granny-type booties then and some tall boots), and worked with lots of tops and I could also wear the vest open or closed or wear each part without the other.  Suz on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278544 Wed, 24 Aug 2022 18:30:08 +0000 Suz 2278544@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ OMG, those desserts look amazing!!!!  Where is my passport? I'm coming right down.  Joking aside...I'm late to the party but will join in with the cheers. It sounds as if you've really done some breakthrough thinking and also -- crucially -- feeling into your goals for dressing, how you want to feel and look for the future, not just what has worked in the past (though that is so important and wise to consider) but also what you would like, going forward.  In my experience (as someone who also tends to overbuy essentials and FFB items) this is a key step in evolving the closet and preventing boredom and dissatisfaction or a sense of not really having a defined style or perhaps having too defined a style that becomes a style rut.  I'm hardly an expert on this but I really think that I can take some cues from Angie and Brooklyn on it—they tend to have fairly well formulated (but emotionally rich) goals.  I love the idea of tall boots in a new colour, and also perhaps of combat or other mid-height laced boots in a lighter colour for you to be worn with the new skirts. You are right that straight legs will allow you to wear shorter boots. I also think that thrifting is a perfect venue for playing with drama -- you can try things out, things you might not have expected to find or things you might not be looking for. The cost is minimal, so why not?  A few of my own thrifting/ consignment finds that have added drama to my closet. Some of these items almost never come out to play; others are (or were) workhorses. All moved my style forward or allowed me to experiment in some sense in a way I would not have felt free to do with full price merchandise.  Angie on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278529 Wed, 24 Aug 2022 17:32:12 +0000 Angie 2278529@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ (Did you make the cakes? If so, may I have the recipes! ) *APPLAUSE* LOVED YOUR AHA MOMENTS!!! Your successful soul searching allows you to reap the rewards. Well done!  My 2 cents, SarahD8: Wooohoooo to this! "I’ve long had a sense that I would like to shift the balance of my wardrobe more towards color and pattern. So, particularly colored and/or patterned tops, especially at longer/tunic length, would be good purchases" ....and this: "Thus, add tall boots in burgundy and/or gray. As a matter of fact, this has been on my list for a few years now. A-ha moment: I have a tendency to de-prioritize items that have been on my list for a while. Novel wants seem more urgent. Case in point: my recent successful incorporation of cream sandals into my summer wardrobe has led me to ponder adding ivory/cream ankle boots for fall" Welcome to Team White Shoes Year Round :) Since you purchase off-season, and when you can get what you can secondhand, your priorities list has to stay very, very flexible. You can't buy what isn't there!  And you can only buy what is. So good job recognizing that over duplications just because you can get the item is something to watch out for. Tall boots are making a comeback! I'm open to them too. Only been on my shopping list for 15 years ...... - but back to you....YES! Taller boots are a must for skirts and dresses in Seattle in Winter. Going to look smashing on you! I love this new direction for you! How about tan tall boots as a way between the cognac and white?  Tall or shorter boots - we live in Seattle. ALL COMFORTABLE BOOTS WILL BE WORN!!! Can't go wrong. Can I help you find straight leg pants and jeans? YES TO THIS!!! EXACTLY: "If I want to experiment with something new I have to actually *invest in the thing I want to play with*! This sounds so silly when I type it out but maybe you can relate? Corollary A-ha moment: I may not be able to add just one thing to my wardrobe and magically accomplish whatever new thing I am aiming at — I have to make sure the support acts are in place. (For example, if I buy a fall skirt, what am I going to wear on top?) That doesn’t necessarily mean I need to buy a *bunch* of things! But I need to think it through". That's why I suggest making a list of style goals - seasonally if that's easier. They make us focus so that we effectively add and subtract from our wardrobes in a way that reflects our signature and aspirational styles. Sometimes this happens more intuitively. I see this with clients and fabbers all the time! And last, it's great to analyse, plan, and think things through - which you greatly enjoy and do so well! That is very much part of your fashion fun, and I fully support it and love to see you have fun! I'm also gently suggesting that you allow your emotions to guide you. Especially when it comes to the dramatic side of your style. (I'm high fiving Brooklyn). Style is art, and not something that we can always fully explain and understand (although we try!). It can't always be boxed up perfectly and tied with a neat little bow. Emotions are very complex, and we feel them all the time. Style therefore has its illogical, passionate, stubborn, and moody side. Follow those feelings too!  Sooooo after my novel that accompanies yours, here is a short action plan that we can all follow: <ul> <li>identify what needs replenishing and replacing </li> <li>assess what is signature to your style and milk it</li> <li>asses how you'd like to evolve your style </li> <li>make sure the individual items in your wardrobe relate to each other</li> </ul> YOU HAVE DONE THAT!!! Now you can put together your style goals. Identity wardrobe holes, prioritize purchases, and refresh your wardrobe with items that are in line with your goals. Finally, create the outfits that are in line with the evolved direction.  I'm excited :) Stagiaire Fash on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278528 Wed, 24 Aug 2022 17:31:20 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2278528@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Yasss. Those inspo images are what I saw in my head. Seriously midi midi skirts, no knees about it. SarahD8 on "Planning & Prioritizing for Fall 2022 (long)" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/planning-prioritizing-for-fall-2022-long#post-2278519 Wed, 24 Aug 2022 16:58:40 +0000 SarahD8 2278519@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks for chiming in, all! I'm so glad the “how am I going to wear this in a way that furthers my style goals?” question resonates. I was quite chuffed when that penny dropped, so pleased to know that it is helpful to you, star and Staysfit. Dessert talk: Staysfit, both cakes are from the book Snacking Cakes, by Yossy Arefi. I HIGHLY recommend it. I've made at least half a dozen different recipes from the book over the last several months and each one has been better than the last. The peach-almond cake is actually a variation on the plum-almond cake recipe in the book. I'm not sure I would use peaches again as they are too wet -- the bottom gets overbaked by the time the top is done. But I've made it successfully with a combo of apricots and apples, and I think cherries would work too. On to the clothing talk -- Runcarla, great reminder that yes, I am auditioning a new silhouette, not trying to accumulate an extensive capsule at this point. Also great suggestion that the straight-leg pants could also do double duty as warm-colored bottoms. Regarding skirts, in the past I've had trouble making skirt outfits with the tops and sweaters that I wear with pants. I think the basic problem is that I do not tuck my tops, so tops that are cut for pants (esp skinnies!) are too long for skirts and outfits look ill-proportioned. (In fact I have gotten exactly this feedback here on the forum before.) So then the skirts become orphans and I edit them out. Trying to break that cycle now. It may be that I have a sweater or two that can swing both ways -- and I'll certainly try that out -- but I think going into it expecting that I can just swap in a skirt for pants with a bunch of my existing tops/sweaters is bound to lead to disappointment. I do love those Keira images you posted (at least one of them is in my Pinterest too!) but I'm aiming at something slightly different now I think. I'll pop a few inspiration images at the bottom of the post! Sal, yes, that fine line of not just getting more of the same but also not being too prescriptive is key! I agree that having a sense of what I do not need more of is useful. I am liking my "resist" language (as in, "resist dark neutrals") because then I am in charge -- I am doing the resisting, rather than being told what I can and can't do! SF, I agree that I have a pretty intuitive sense of what my color palette is! And, when something in just the right shade comes along, it usually does work...at least eventually. I'm just trying to remind myself that sometimes I might get a bigger bang for my buck from expanding a complement rather than expanding my palette. Re: cardi silhouettes -- my longer cardis are not what I would call dusters, they are mostly shorter (mid-thigh length) and more of that grandpa cardi style that Robin mentions. I do love them but feel a need to amp things up slightly! I am definitely open to experimenting with long-over-long as well as the midi-skirt-fair-isle-pullover formula, as you'll see from my inspo images (hand to god I had already chosen #5 before seeing your comment!). Janet great to know that you are thinking about long midi/stompy boots outfits too! I will be on the lookout for your experiments and WIWs! I am thinking about people's comments about tall boots vs. ankle boots but will try to put some thoughts in a separate post!