https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sun, 03 May 2026 04:49:13 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy/page/2#post-903815 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 03:44:58 +0000 Deborah 903815@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sarah there is a good chance I am being repetitious as I haven't read all the comments but dresses are not the only option.&nbsp; And even though I do have a dressy aesthetic, I have had the same struggle as you recently.&nbsp; I have had two events recently (a wedding and a 60th Wedding Anniversary) where I really wished I had worn pants.&nbsp; I wore dresses both times and just felt boring and 'not me'.&nbsp; I am in the process of working out what would be a good special occasion capsule that still looks and feels like me without going the traditional route of a dress.&nbsp; <br /><br />Trousers, blouse and Tuxedo jacket is one thought.&nbsp; Slim leg pants in a soft fabric, blouse and a boyfiend jacket in an evening fabrication (kind of Emmanuelle Alt look).&nbsp; Dressy tunic over slim straight leg pants is another option.&nbsp; <br /><br />I will be watching closely to see what you do..&nbsp; Good luck. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy/page/2#post-903810 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 03:35:00 +0000 Anonymous 903810@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Parsley, yes, no white dress&nbsp;for weddings. I used to be a wedding coordinator, that is the advice for most American weddings. the white dress is reserved for the bride only. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy/page/2#post-903809 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 03:33:23 +0000 Anonymous 903809@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ What Aida said. You don't need to be in "character" all the time. I would advise against wearing a white dress, orher than that, go try a bunch and have some fun! https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy/page/2#post-903731 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 02:28:49 +0000 Parsley 903731@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hmm, I&nbsp;don't know how other people feel about it, but traditionally people other than the bride don't wear all white to a wedding &nbsp;(to keep from&nbsp;up-staging the bride, and all that).<br /><br />Of course it also used to be that you shouldn't wear black to weddings, but that has&nbsp;<u>definitely</u> changed.<br /><br />How do the rest of you feel about wearing white to weddings? Is it still taboo?<br />Maybe that needs to be the subject of a new thread... https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy/page/2#post-903658 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 01:45:39 +0000 Aida 903658@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Normally: Not at all bombshell.<br />Event dressy: Rather bombshell.<br /><br />:) https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy/page/2#post-903623 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 01:29:03 +0000 sarah 903623@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Marcy, I'm so clueless - that didn't even occur to me. Is that a big deal? Because I did order that dress - it's simple and summery and the price is right.<br /><br />Lyn and Caro - I'm glad I'm not the only one.<br /><br />Aida, that is fascinating! So, how would you describe your two personas? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy/page/2#post-903609 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 01:22:13 +0000 Aida 903609@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great advice in here already, so just wanted to throw out some food for thought I had been struggling with dressy looks, until realizing that I have an entirely different style persona for dressing up. It kind of bothered me at first, having such a strong difference in style between the two, but as I thought on it more I became quite comfortable with the idea. HUGE revelation and stress reliever!<br /><br />(I love the idea of dressy silky pants for you, Sarah!) https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903393 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 22:48:47 +0000 Caro in Oz 903393@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I wore dresses to 2 weddings recently &amp; although they looked fine I felt there was something missing (I think it was me). I've since bought a pants suit. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903312 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 21:48:55 +0000 Lyn D. 903312@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Just to add I.K.W.Y.M. about not feeling like yourself in dresses!<br />Even if a dress looks Fab, there is nothing worse than feeling 'off' at a special occasion .<br />I hope you find something 'just right', and look forward to seeing pics. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903297 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 21:26:41 +0000 Parsley 903297@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ A reconnaissance mission to Anthro might be in order!<br />(I like #5, but I'm old-fashioned about not wearing all white to a wedding) https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903291 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 21:19:45 +0000 sarah 903291@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I agree, Marcy, especially since I may not find what I'm looking for in pants or a dress - it's good to keep all options open. 1-4 are all from Anthro. 5 is from BR. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903290 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 21:17:42 +0000 Parsley 903290@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I agree with everybody that dressy pants could work, (and I <u>do</u> recommend trying the Eileen Fisher silk ones)&nbsp;&nbsp;but I also think you shouldn't give up on dresses. You look great in the one in the picture. If you found a&nbsp;similar style in a dressier fabric and added more delicate shoes you'd be all set. <br /><br />I really like the ones you've shown above. Do you mind telling what #2 and #4 are? I was going to say the same thing as Suz about the length- as petite as you are I doubt that they'll be too short. Something slightly loose and body-skimming will probably feel more like "you".<br /><br />I would recommend trying several dresses on and I think you could find one that you like.<br />Good luck!<br /><br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903279 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 21:02:38 +0000 sarah 903279@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I can picture that in my mind, Angie, and it sounds lovely. Now to put it together...<br /><br />I've always wanted Bob to be my uncle ; ) https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903268 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 20:55:31 +0000 Angie 903268@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ There is life after a frock for occasion dressing! I was going to suggest modern trousers, a shell top, jacket, low heels and clutch for the wedding. Warmer too. Keep the fabrics luxurious and Bob's your uncle. <br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903261 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 20:51:16 +0000 sarah 903261@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ That is lovely, Scarlet and it's my color! I'm afraid those sleeves wouldn't do me any favors, though, sadly. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903164 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 19:42:30 +0000 Scarlet 903164@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Gorgeous silk dress:<br /><span><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.comptoirdescotonniers.eu/eboutique/womens-collection/dresses/4887-orgerus-color-pacific-orgerus.html">http://www.comptoirdescotonnie.....-pacific-o</a><br /></span><br />Maybe they would ship it from the New York store. Could be dressed up for a wedding or down for a hot summer day. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903160 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 19:35:24 +0000 sarah 903160@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks for the visuals, Rita! https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903153 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 19:21:29 +0000 modgrl 903153@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am planning to wear a tux to all of my dressy occasions this year - <br /><a href="http://pinterest.com/rita_berson/girl-you-rock-that-tux/" rel="nofollow">http://pinterest.com/rita_bers.....-that-tux/</a><br /><br /><br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903151 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 19:18:12 +0000 sarah 903151@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks so much everyone for all of your idea!<br /><br />Scarlet and Suz - I adore Ellen's style. Not sure I could pull that together in the few weeks that I have, but I'll definitely keep that in mind - and look at some more photos of her in dressy situations. I'd like it to be "spring-y", because I'm so sick of winter here, so black might not be an option for me, mentally. But another color might work (I've seen Ellen in white-out suits that look fabulous).<br /><br />Donna and AJ - love the shirt dress idea, too. I especially love that AP dress. Good idea that I wouldn't have ever come up with.<br /><br />Kelly, Aziraphale, and unfrumped, I will think about pants!<br /><br />Kelly - those pants are only good pulled up to a cropped length - I think I'd need long pants...<br /><br />Isis - I love that look! Maybe I can recreate it using ASOS for less $$.<br /><br />You've all given me a great deal to think about, and pushed me to think outside of the dress box. I really appreciate it! https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903108 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 18:36:11 +0000 Scarlet 903108@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Black on black could work too. &nbsp;(Just trying to find a visual) https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903069 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 17:58:21 +0000 Suz 903069@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Love Scarlet's idea - take some inspiration from Ellen. (Or Angie, for that matter).&nbsp;<br /><br />How about a tux???? &nbsp;<br /><br />That would be beyond awesome on you with your blond hair. Some patent oxfords or slipper flats, a gorgeous shirt....and we'd all run fainting.&nbsp; https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903062 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 17:55:08 +0000 rachylou 903062@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I had the same thought as Aziraphale. For me the only thing to do is switch out accessories. A statement necklace in gold, dress shoes.<br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903058 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 17:53:32 +0000 Scarlet 903058@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <u></u>What about something Ellen Degeneres inspired? Like a really crisp top and swanky trousers and swanky oxfords?&nbsp;I could see you in that better than in a fancy dress, and it can be just as chic and dressed up. Maybe a pinstriped suit with a really crisp white shirt? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-903009 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 17:04:30 +0000 DonnaF 903009@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I was also going to suggest a shirtdress, maybe in a really heavy silk crepe that is camp style on top and in a wedding worthy color -- not that I've seen that dress anywhere!&nbsp; <br /><br />In general, I would look for a sporty style or cut but in a luxe fabrication. . . .<br /><br />Would you consider a flared skirt, or does that style feel to twee for you?&nbsp; I am thinking of Talbot's many flared skirts that come in Petites and aren't overly short.&nbsp; I recall their jackets (or at least one!) fit you, so maybe you could find coordinating pieces.<br /><br />My concern with regular sized dresses is that the length may be fine but the waist and hips won't hit in the most flattering places so they will look *off*.&nbsp; I am long-waisted, but regular sized dresses tend to make me look even more long-waisted even if they technically hit me in the right place, but YMMV.<br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-902986 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:48:03 +0000 Isis 902986@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Did you see the silk Eileen Fisher slouch pants that Parsely wore for her trip?<br /><br />Here they are in petites.&nbsp; I alos like the top and&nbsp; think silk slouch would work well for you:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/p/Eileen-Fisher-Watercolor-Sheer-Tunic-Silk-Jersey-Tank-Cuffed-Silk-Georgette-Ankle-Pants-Petite/prod158750014/?ecid=NMALRJ84DHJLQkR4&amp;CS_003=5630585" rel="nofollow">http://www.neimanmarcus.com/p/.....-Silk-Geor</a><br /><br />ETA:&nbsp; not keen on the sleeves on the top.....<br /><br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-902903 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 15:14:18 +0000 unfrumped 902903@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I can really relate! Short answer (for me!) is:<br /><br />Embrace &nbsp;pants ! --but study up on&nbsp;how to have dressier options. I may post some of my many aha moments on this subject when life settles down a bit in&nbsp; a few weeks. Suz's idea about footwear and accessories is spot on--you don't so &nbsp;much have to have ALGO, but realizing that&nbsp; l details&nbsp; &nbsp;can transform looks to a dressier one&nbsp;even if&nbsp;the underlying clothing is more classic and comfortable. Dressier footwear is key for me but again I have to shop, as it's a challenge for me&nbsp;to find comfy + stylish/dressy.&nbsp;Play in your closet. As you try on some outfits,&nbsp;&nbsp;identify what&nbsp;wardrobe additions&nbsp;could be the dress-code changing ones-- a dressier blouse, a great clutch or necklace, flats with some detail/sparkle.<br /><br />Dresses--shop frequently but buy infrequently for this category or capsule. I could rant on about the poor selection of dresses for my style and taste--they're not there when I need one, but I've identified some styles and I plan to browse more and&nbsp; pounce. Don't forget separates-- you may find a skirt style that works for you.<br /><br />Focus on having&nbsp; just a couple of outfit options&nbsp;that really work (winter, summer) for truly dressy occasions and update them from time to time.<br />Experiment with some less-dressy, but more dressy than your usual style, that you can pull from your essentials and upgrade a bit with accessories as above. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-902889 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 15:03:11 +0000 AJ 902889@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Maybe start another thread where you show us the dressy pants that you already have? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-902886 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 15:01:03 +0000 AJ 902886@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thinking about the dress route, how about a simple yet polished shirtdress?<br /><a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/dresses/Day/PRDOVR~42465/42465.jsp" rel="nofollow">http://www.jcrew.com/womens_ca...../42465.jsp</a><br /><br /><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/rachel-zoe-rosie-sleeveless-shirtdress/3486407?origin=PredictiveSearch&amp;contextualcategoryid=0&amp;fashionColor=&amp;resultback=5847" rel="nofollow">http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/ra.....rch&#038;c</a><br /><br /><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/adrianna-papell-colorblock-shirtdress/3455592?origin=PredictiveSearch&amp;contextualcategoryid=0&amp;fashionColor=&amp;resultback=6660" rel="nofollow">http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/ad.....ch&#038;co</a> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-902885 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 15:00:11 +0000 Aziraphale 902885@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ That dress does look fabulous on you.&nbsp; Are you sure it's not dressy enough?<br /><br />I've got fairly causal style, too, although I do enjoy dressing up once in a while.&nbsp; But one time I wore an arty suit to a wedding, and felt really good in it.&nbsp; I second the motion for dressy pants with an "evening wear" sort of top.<br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quandary-how-to-dress-up-when-your-style-is-not-dressy#post-902876 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:57:25 +0000 kellygirl 902876@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I love the idea of a dressy pant. I never would have thought of that either. Don't you have a pair of slouchy pants from last year--black, perhaps? Can you dress those up?&nbsp;<br /><br />I like the ones you linked. I prefer the print in the first picture (which looks more your style)&nbsp;but I like the silhouette of the floral. Did you see Angie's fab frock post?&nbsp;<br /><br />ETA: Welcome home. I didn't have time to post yesterday but I loved reading about your trip. Loved the BF look :)&nbsp;