https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake-- Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Mon, 11 May 2026 08:32:26 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--/page/2#post-586290 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:00:53 +0000 MNsara 586290@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I feel like an after-thought here -- there have been such wonderful, insightful comments about the jacket -- but as I've caught up on them and your other work thread, I can't help but wonder if this jacket could ever be courtroom appropriate for Alaska?</p> <p>To me it's got the right elements for looking professional and the right elements for being distinctive. If it might work, then just coming up with maybe two stylings (1 skirt, 1 trousers) for the courtroom and it would earn it's keep, right?</p> <p>I say this because I DO understand when leather calls your name, and the fit is excellent, even if the style isn't easy/perfect. It can always leave if/when you find you have more preferred things to choose from. . . </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--/page/2#post-586248 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 13:16:19 +0000 Vildy 586248@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What's not to love about this jacket. You're confusing it with your temporary hard-on-yourself feelings. The jacket is innocent! I notice that in the photo - where I know you're not attempting to style it - you have no exuberance over it. I don't think this is to do with the jacket itself but partly an attempt to devalue it so you can separate from it and your "mistake." I'm definitely on board with the members who see a lot of value in it for you styling it up to suit you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--/page/2#post-586149 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 09:04:14 +0000 Inge 586149@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I also think the leather jacket has potential, Una. A few more ideas to make it more you:</p> <p>Leather jacket +<br /> - hoodie + (not too oversized) boyfriend jeans or a pencil skirt<br /> - slouchy V-neck sweater + pencil skirt (pattern or solid)<br /> - straight-legged trousers (or a slight bootcut) + Converse<br /> - fitted denim jacket layered underneath + pencil skirt or yellow plaid pants<br /> - boyfriend jeans + white button-down + men's tie<br /> - yellow plaid pants + white button-down or white top + ankle boots<br /> - B&amp;W striped top + slouchy trousers<br /> - sheath dress + gladiator or cage sandals<br /> - waistcoat + black or white button-down + pencil skirt + metallic oxfords<br /> - dark denim pencil skirt + lighter blue chambray shirt (knotted) + metallic oxfords or fun patterned pump </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--/page/2#post-586091 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 04:52:37 +0000 Scarlet 586091@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I dig the jacket. I would scrunch the sleeves and pair it with black/white/grey/graphic things as opposed to bright colors. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--/page/2#post-586004 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 02:32:37 +0000 Vix 586004@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi Una --</p> <p>Add me to the "not a problem" folks -- especially given your work clothing angst.</p> <p>I see:</p> <p>* a flattering shape on you</p> <p>* a cut that's usually associated with very "ladylike" looks, but gets tweaked rather heartily when done in black leather</p> <p>* a style that adds a lot of oomph to tailored "not-Una" work clothes without scaring the clients, but work with all your funkier items </p> <p>The only real issue is seasonality, so I'd start wearing it early and often. You have tons of styling ideas upthread and I'm sure we'd love to see them. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--/page/2#post-585990 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 02:21:37 +0000 Carole 585990@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It seems like you have been all sorted out here, but hope you will add pictures of your jacket styled in some different ways. I can't wait to see. I enjoyed reading your thoughts in processing this...I suffer from some of the same tendencies. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--/page/2#post-585814 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 22:43:40 +0000 catgirl 585814@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Heather, are you a professional life coach? I need a little Heather on my shoulder, whispering flattery and tips in my ear all day! </p> <p>I will give it a couple of tries because your suggestions and the other ideas here are so brilliant, but I have some blatant hostility toward it now for the maelstrom of self-doubt it has caused me. </p> <p>YOU, on the other hand, are my shero! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--/page/2#post-585714 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 20:04:34 +0000 Heather 585714@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I do not understand the problem here. I do not see a mistake at all. Dude, this jacket is awesome on you, for you, etc. Paired with that outfit, no, but honestly, I thought you just threw it on to show the forum so I discounted the ensemble and only looked at the jacket, your lovely self, the quality, what a deal! and the fit.</p> <p>Pair it with some slim bottoms, the quilted booties and your UWP sweater. Or layer another jacket underneath or a vest and a blouse and slim bottoms. This jacket has loads of potential and your shouldn't be stressing or worrying your pretty head about it.</p> <p>Keep, no, ROCK it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585619 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 17:48:47 +0000 modgrl 585619@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Do you love and want to make it work or do you want to move on? And how much are you willing to invest to make it work? </p> <p>Would you consider getting it cropped shorter so that it's slightly above your waist. Then you could wear it with a tunic blouse underneath for that short over long look like you did with the blush moto. I would also roll and scrunch the sleeves. It's expensive to tailor leather though - I'm not sure if it's going to be worth it to you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585549 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:38:52 +0000 Jonesy 585549@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think it's pretty darn cool myself. I would cuff/scrunch the sleeves so they are right above your elbow (more RATE, less swingy mod A-line) and wear it with a bright blouse or knit and some skinnies and RATE boots. I think the quilted leather is TDF.</p> <p>One thing about the mirror vs. your pics: When you look in the mirror, your angle is completely different (from your eyes down). It always looks to me like your camera is placed low and angles up, which is somewhat distorting IMHO (making you look more IT than you are, perhaps).</p> <p>PS Don't beat yourself up over this! I know what you mean about using the store credit from selling stuff--it doesn't even seem like real money! Plus, I would have had a hard time passing up a Vince quilted leather jacket that was in my size and was on deep, deep discount :). Though I do see Angie's point about the capsules idea--just wanted to say I empathize! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585529 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:19:05 +0000 ironkurtin 585529@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Is the leather super soft and buttery? I know that would tip me over into impulse buy.</p> <p>I think you should pass it along to be someone else's treasure - like MK's, maybe. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585526 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:16:39 +0000 Angie 585526@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Una, I really appreciate your thoughts on the situation. Your "reality checks" and "light bulb moments" are meaningful. This has reassured me for sure. I like the way that you are subtracting from your wardrobe as you add in stuff too. Good job. Having fewer items at once is often the key to a stress free and fabulous sense of style. </p> <p>If you are not already in this mind set (because you might be and I'm just off base), may I suggest that you become more analytical about your wardrobe additions - think in capsules. Think about how you would wear the new item and what it will go with. When will you wear the items? Work or for play? Do you have enough play clothes? Do you need more work clothes? Do you have to purchase additional items in order to prevent a new item from being orphaned? </p> <p>These are initial thoughts. We are here to assist you every step of the way. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585508 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:06:53 +0000 cinnamon fern 585508@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have no advice, but I'm so with you on mirrors vs photos. When I look at myself in the mirror I just see all my preconceptions, not what the clothes actually look like. I wonder if anyone has a cure for this? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585498 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:52:33 +0000 catgirl 585498@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Angie, I think you've hit on something, although it's not as bad as you think. Thank you for the reality check. As you know, I tend to learn everything the hard way. I have to say, I feel pretty ashamed of this purchase, which I can't say of anything else I've bought recently, because although it is a fab item, it was a complete cave-in to my old impulsive ways.</p> <p>I've followed my own rule that for every new item, three items must leave. For example, my new hoodie replaced three old sweatshirt type items. So I've continued purging old items from my closet and made a lot of $ consigning, so it is easy for me to use that credit at the consignment store, feeling like I'm not really spending anything. I need to make it a rule to "cash out" and start treating that credit as real money.</p> <p>Most of my recent purchases have been fairly focused and YLF-approved. I post a lot of "wants" here, but normally only buy with approval because that gives me a check and balance. My style is changing a little bit, but overall I have made better decisions. However, I am still easily swayed by cost (need to realize that a bargain only is a bargain if it works) and by impulse. That needs to be better controlled, and I need to get a new handle on what I want to wear. UWP is the heart of my style, but I'm finding other options tempting also. So, should I take a break to assess more at this point?</p> <p>I also need to remember to take pictures because I'm convinced something is wrong with my eyes when it comes to mirrors. This looked really cute in the store mirror, I swear. My instincts are still not good when it comes to knowing what's right for me.</p> <p>I've tried the jacket several ways and am not at all happy. I'm hoping at least I will take away these lessons from this jacket if it does not work out.</p> <p>Thank you all so much for your input. If you have any suggestions on how to get a better grip on remaining focused, let me know. My "Aida's list" may need to be revisited. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585484 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:17:56 +0000 rachylou 585484@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Mmm. I agree with Mo, it just doesn't seem much like you. Cute, but not you. It feels to me a little like a bed jacket here... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585457 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 14:10:04 +0000 Angie 585457@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Una, I don't want to spoil your shopping and wardrobe fun - after all, that is the point of YLF! But I *do* worry about how you are adding to your wardrobe and whether the items are in line with your lifestyle and style goals. The last thing that you want is a closet full of orphans - feeling like you have so many clothes, yet nothing to wear. </p> <p>If I have got the situation wrong and you do have a handle on things, then I guess I just need the reassurance that you are in control of the situation. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with me :)</p> <p>The jacket does not work how it is styled. Black skinnies, heeled booties and a blouse or top - try that and let's see how that works. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585456 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 14:09:10 +0000 Anonymous 585456@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I really like what Manidipa said about this jacket. Don't be too knee-jerk in getting rid of it, just let it mellow in your closet for a while and styling will come to you. I say this because I tend to purge too quickly when I think I've made a mistake. It actually does for your shoulders what an A-line skirt does for someone with hips. It make the perceived *problem area* the smallest point and then flares out from there. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585428 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 13:15:52 +0000 Sarah A 585428@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>while I see your concerns re being your style... I also think this is a fun jacket and the styling suggestions given... esp the green skinnies, are having a lot of potential. would love to see this working for you! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585425 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 13:14:02 +0000 marianna 585425@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I actually like it and totally think you can make it work. It just needs different/sleeker outfit components. I love quilted leather like that. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585424 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 13:11:32 +0000 Transcona Shannon 585424@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Don't give up on it yet Una! I personally love trapeze jackets (like MaryK) but it is all in the styling. I would try it over your skinnies (especially the green ones) for sure. I like the idea of a white button down underneath it, or popping it over top of a simple sheath style dress. I think you need to play with it a bit before you make up your mind. Yes, it's not your usual style and it is a shape you have to get used to, but I don't think it's a total loss (yet)! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585414 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:20:14 +0000 Mochi 585414@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think inspiration will come to you and you'll find a way to pull it off. It is a challenging piece, that said. Not so much the boxy (though there's that) but quilted...I was mentioning in Shannon's thread on thrifting how I've come to realize I am much more likely to be emotionally swayed in a consignment situation than a normal store...I made my recent sort-of regretful purchase (all based on price, though--the item itself is nice). But it's a lesson in awareness and ultimately probably didn't cost you too much. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585411 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:10:34 +0000 Deborah 585411@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Una, I think it's gorgeous however the lack of styling here makes it difficult to assess. I think it looks a bit mod so I could see it over skinnies and a turtleneck! Or a crisp whit button down with the collar popped. I think this could look amazing. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585404 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:00:57 +0000 Jaime 585404@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I rather like it. Maybe over a column of neutral color? Worth a try! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585400 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 11:49:57 +0000 teeandcee 585400@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm not even in the same universe as your own fashionista self, but I think the jacket would look good with a crisp white shirt with the cuffs and collar showing quite a bit to give it some structure along with a midi pencil skirt in some kind of cool pattern with some futuristic ankle boots. I think due to the soft contours of the jacket it needs a lot of crispness and structure everywhere else. The jacket seems very futuristic Jetsons to me, in a great way. It really is amazing IMO! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585366 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 06:08:14 +0000 christieanne 585366@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It's got very cool texture. Play around for a couple days and see what you can do. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585356 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 05:13:17 +0000 Kate 585356@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>To be perfectly frank, I'm with Mo and Anna on this puppy, Una. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585343 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 04:24:36 +0000 Beth Ann 585343@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yes, I was just thinking what Mandipa said --- this kind of inverts your IT proportions, making your shoulders look a little narrower. Spend some time styling it. Even if it's not ultimately for you, I can certainly see what drew you to it! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585341 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 04:19:08 +0000 ManidipaM 585341@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I know it's not your usual style, but I think sometimes the universe confuses us just to stretch our horizons. We might want to spring back like a rubberband in a bit, but it's nice to play out there a little. Because, seriously, this doesn't look bad to me at all --- just unusual.</p> <p>I'd say add skinnies (emerald?), a tonal match for top (something skimming your body, like the hi-lo hem tunic you have, or the striped T-shirt you wore with your blush moto the other day), your quilted booties --- and you're halfway to another Custo Barcelona interpretation. Then if you still think it's too much you can say sayonara with no regrets. But essentially I think this jacket's volume needs an eyecatching colour on the bottom half to balance it, OR you should go tonal top to toe to let it really stand out and draw attention to your hair, maybe with funky coloured shoes and bag?</p> <p>PS: I realize that's not the most likely thing to happen, but I just imagined this over your purple Tadashi, and I think that look would rock. But that might be too occasional to hold on to this for, when you have other choices already that you're comfortable with.</p> <p>What I realized I like about the 'boxy-ness' (I see more swingy than boxy) is that it balances your shoulders and in fact really makes them look narrow --- something you're often so cautious about. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585334 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 04:03:05 +0000 MsMary 585334@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Check out photo 5 here: <a href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-59-510-511-more-bright-colors-more-midi-madness" rel="nofollow">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....di-madness</a></p> <p>And #3 here: <a href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-616-and-617-with-nude-shoe-shoutout-to-modgrl" rel="nofollow">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....-to-modgrl</a></p> <p>1 and 3 here: <a href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-thurs-and-fri-with-shoe-indecision" rel="nofollow">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....indecision</a></p> <p>Apparently the jacket wants to be longer than the top underneath, and it wants a slim bottom. (*sobbing quietly because I miss my too-big-and-given-away trapeze jacket*) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/shoulda-posted-first-i-may-have-made-a-purchase-mistake--#post-585333 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 03:57:48 +0000 catgirl 585333@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well, I do consider you the "Clothes Whisperer" - if anyone can tame this baby, it's you! I will try your styling suggestion. </p>