https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421 Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sun, 26 Apr 2026 12:32:24 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421/page/2#post-2224216 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 22:16:26 +0000 lozz_oz 2224216@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I always look forward to your wiw postings Lisa. All great pieces as expected.....as others have already mentioned, a higher contrast top would probably make you happier.<br /> Love your comment about the sneakers looking ‘orthopaedic’ - totally get that as I face the challenge of finding comfortable shoes that look good too. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421/page/2#post-2224208 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 22:01:49 +0000 MsMaven 2224208@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Cognac capsule: what a great idea! The last few months I have been leaning toward brown tones. After experimenting with dark brown I'm now trying medium shades such as camel and cognac.&nbsp;</p> <p>I think you look great. I can see how a higher contrast is better for you, but I like your outfit today just fine. Many times I dress too warmly because it's cool in the mornings and then later I'm sweating and feeling foolish.&nbsp;</p> <p>Now those shoes: I love them! I've been looking and looking this last week for a pair of camel or tan or brown shades of walking shoes. Unfortunately, orthopedic is my style these days, but your pair look quite sleek to me. I haven't been able to find anything in my size that I like--the shoe manufacturers don't seem to be keeping up with color trends. I'm not familiar with your brand, but I'm going to check on it.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421/page/2#post-2224206 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 21:56:28 +0000 UmmLila (Lisa) 2224206@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am a person who definitely chooses pieces based on color more than anything. And cognac is definitely a good color for you. But that may have been the issue with this capsule -- that it was more based on color matching than anything else. As others have suggested, remixing with pieces that are more in line with your tailored, feminine preferences could work better.</p> <p>(I have a really hard time wearing sweatshirts in a non-gear way, btw)</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421/page/2#post-2224203 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 21:45:58 +0000 gryffin 2224203@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lisa - I think Angie hit is that you might be happier with more contrast.&nbsp; The value of the sweatshirt is close to your skin tone.&nbsp; Adding a scarf (like you McQ) close to your face or a different higher contrast topper would help put the focus on you.&nbsp; I like the vest/sneaker combo but maybe with a dark floral blouse that picked up your colors.&nbsp; The pieces are nice, but I would pull them apart and try styling them individually.&nbsp; Push the contrast and see if that makes your happier.&nbsp; But honestly, you look great.&nbsp; Not my favorite outfit the blazer outfits I swoon over but very nice look probably just too warm for this time of year and agree you overheat you will hate what you have on.&nbsp; We all would!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421/page/2#post-2224158 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 19:52:18 +0000 Janet 2224158@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I’m late to this and others have already suggested what I would have, so nothing more to say besides I think all the pieces work for you, perhaps just not all together! I find this true for me too. Sometimes I just need to crack the code that gives my outfit the right balance of ease and structure, color and contrast, edge and flattery, etc. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421/page/2#post-2224079 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 15:45:22 +0000 Anonymous 2224079@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Again, all such terrific comments, ideas and insights. The beauty and value of the forum playing out right here.</p> <p>I'm struggling a bit (I mean, it's all relative to other far more important issues in the world) with finding "my" wardrobe now that I don't have a fashion/retail/style focused job. I consider myself semi-retired even though I work almost full time - and now that I don't have the same &nbsp;kind of social life I used to, my justification/need &nbsp;for "nicer" clothes &nbsp; isn't the same. &nbsp;It's a balance I've yet to find - and this outfit is a perfect illustration of the attempt &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421/page/2#post-2224076 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 15:20:50 +0000 Suz 2224076@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ok, I am sorry you felt blah in this outfit, but I love the sweatshirt on you -- you look really pretty in these tones! I also love the&nbsp; vest with the shoes (and like each item on its own). I think maybe it was too warm to wear this on the day you chose it (or later in the afternoon of that day) and that will make anyone feel gross. </p> <p>Also, you are super hard on yourself! As <b>Angie </b>pointed out, you might feel a bit better with slightly more "hard" edge to your look -- it's your comfort zone, so to speak, and this may feel overall a bit soft. OTOH, you may be trying to evolve your style just slightly in that direction and it may take some time to find the balance that works. </p> <p>Especially because you have to wear black at work, you end up in conflict about it. In your previous (before Refit) life, black was your basic and a foolproof. Now, you still like it, but get bored (understandably!) with wearing it all the time, plus you share some concerns about its flattery or lack thereof (although I think you still wear it well). In any case, it's a bit of a transition period in more ways than one -- weather, the place of hard edge or black, and, um Covid. UGH&gt;&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421/page/2#post-2224023 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 11:21:57 +0000 lyn67 2224023@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>NOT a bad outfit, Lisa, looks color coordinated and intentional, just not up to your/our highs!:-) <br />Now, this is a perfect example of the soul sucking effect of that beige in that sweatshirt---I learned to be cautious of big amounts of that pale beige on my body as am blonde, too. Instead I love dark&nbsp; patterns&nbsp; with only small amounts of this color for my top half, or if having a metallic shine and texture (say Runcarla's golden beige puffer-which I have a similar one) and&nbsp; I swear the tie-dye sweatshirt would look gorgeous on you if made of a bigger contrast color scheme like bl&amp;w!&nbsp; Plus, the sweatshirt and the vest in the same colorway is just too much for you/us. Try the same outfit with a charcoal puffer vest and would work much more better. Or the tan vest with a charcoal long sleeve top -also great. To be frank, I have no problems with the jeans&nbsp;elasticated hems included.&nbsp; I love them&nbsp; with the cognac loafers (which don't feel that masculine to me here-but I avoid laces on my shoes for that same reason) just pair it with a crisp shirt/blouse on top!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421/page/2#post-2224020 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 11:15:17 +0000 viva 2224020@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Frustrating, though, to save pieces for a big reveal and then to have it fall flat (in your eyes). I've been there. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2224019 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 11:14:21 +0000 viva 2224019@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I realize I am completely speaking from my own point of view, which veers toward saturated color, but I think something bolder might really lift this outfit - to me, it's not so much so many casual pieces but so many neutral-toned casual pieces. You have so much spirit and energy that I want to see more of it in the outfit. I think two of Angie's suggestions in particular make a lot of sense and could bring this closer to the "Lisa" I imagine I know. (LOL) <ul> <li>Swapping out the sweatshirt for something with a higher contrast - like cream or black.</li> <li>Wearing the sweatshirt with a harder edge like with with black. Drape your skull scarf over it.</li> </ul> So don't throw out the baby with the bathwater! Just see this outfit as step 1, and there are more steps to take.</p> <p>xx </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2224018 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 10:57:46 +0000 N 2224018@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I was going to say I also dislike tie dye but Brooklyn makes a good point, I do love Japanese tie dye.</p> <p>I think the colours you've chosen are pretty. I think to save the look, I'd go with a dressier top under the vest and maybe even dressier trousers as well. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2224012 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 10:04:40 +0000 Brooklyn 2224012@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love tie dye but I like the pattern to look very intentional - like a shibori. As others have said, contrast counts.</p> <p>Everything else looks great to my eye. </p> <p>I think you might feel better about the jeans if you team them with a top that is more structured and/or in a saturated colour. Sometimes the combination of faded (somewhat RATE) jeans with RATE top makes the whole outfit swing too RATE. I think you need that contrast of RATE (jeans) with sharp/dressier top.</p> <p>And the sneakers are great. I agree cognac sneakers are hard to find. I’ve been looking too! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2224008 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 08:57:35 +0000 Synne 2224008@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Trendy and polished as always! I also hate feeling masculine, I'm guessing it's the combo of "boyish" elements here? Sneakers, sweatshirt, jeans. Funnily enough I feel the most masculine when I dress overly feminine, it's like a minus and a plus still makes a minus. I strive to dress feminine by dressing slightly androgynous with a femme edge. So two minuses become a plus. Don't know if that makes sense, lol... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2224006 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 08:51:30 +0000 Bijou 2224006@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lisa, you articulate so well what the rest of us often feel. I have a bit of a love / hate relationship with tie dyed too. I love it on others and it feels all sorts of wrong when on me!</p> <p>I am sure you can remix these pieces and enjoy them, your sneakers are a fabulous bookend for your hair. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223996 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 07:33:28 +0000 Star (Lise) 2223996@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for this thread Lisa.&nbsp; Nothing much to add except I know all about the too masculine and gross feeling in certain jeans, sweatshirt/T's and sneakers, so the comments and insight is helpful.&nbsp; &nbsp;<b>RL&nbsp;</b>I like your idea of a checklist focused on one's style.&nbsp; FWIW I do really like the final pic outfit with your vest.&nbsp; Looks polished and pulled together to me but I do get your feelings.<b></b></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223989 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 06:50:29 +0000 rachylou 2223989@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Boy, I like that shacket! But I think I have to get a grip and realise I could never make it mine. To me it says ‘angels and tomboys’, two things I’m definitely not aligned with.</p> <p>I also like the vest/tie-dye/cognac sneakers, but looking good is not the same as looking right… and I think the outfit contradicts you. I don’t feel they’re… maybe refined enough.</p> <p>… anyways, you kinda have me thinking, Lisa, about making a checklist of key qualities that I have to have… a checklist that is extremely brief… focused on style, not things like quality or beauty… </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223937 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 01:32:35 +0000 Jenni NZ 2223937@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Love the vest especially!<br /> Otherwise, not sure what to say.<br /> I would likely give you a compliment IRL because you tone your outfits together so perfectly.<br /> I guess I have become lazier personally about my outfits this past winter- lots of black. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223929 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 01:19:45 +0000 Jaime 2223929@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is such an insightful thread, thank you for posting Lisa.<br />First off, the only piece I agree with you about is the sweatshirt. And that is pure projection - I always feel sloppy and off in sweatshirts and t-shirts because I am not a crisp, polished person and my look can veer very quickly to just rolled out of bed. The quilted vest, sneakers and jeans all look very promising to me.<br />Secondly, I have noticed, if I may say, that you often mention you dislike this and that for looking too masculine. Now I am probably projecting again, but I find this interesting. I am a small (short and small boned) person and I always rather like a masculine edge to my outfits because I like to look a bit tough. But of course, being small and busty tends to offset this. Just musing. I am sure my grey short hair and look is too masculine for many people's taste.<br />Third off, I really like your hair. That's all for now.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223916 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 00:27:04 +0000 cjh 2223916@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for sharing your struggles as well as willingness to figure out why and how to fix. Lots of good advice from everyone.<div><br /></div><div>Personally I have a weakness for purple tie dye, perhaps reaching back to jr. high when some of my first babysitting money went for a purple tie dye top❤️❤️❤️. But the neutral, low contrast print of yours is maybe just a bit too bland? Taking the direction of a dressier, more feminine top, without going to all out ruffles, pussy bows or boho fluffiness, might be the way to handle the outfit.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>What do you think about this blouse to replace the sweatshirt?&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="https://shop.mango.com/us/women/shirts-blouses/paisley-print-blouse_17035952.html">https://shop.mango.com/us/wome.....35952.html</a></p> <p>Maybe there’s a missing element of structure, so if you can stand another layer, maybe a crisp white (or navy or a lighter blue to match the jeans) &nbsp;shirt with popped collar under the sweatshirt would do the trick.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Do you have a faux leather or satin skirt instead of these softly fitting jeans? Or even more tailored trouser jeans?&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>And I also relate to the too hot = hot mess feeling. Sadly, I don’t think we’re close to transitional weather here, as tank top and shorts feel like too much today.</div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223905 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 23:47:18 +0000 slim cat 2223905@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Agree with all the contrast ideas and the need to have something "sharp" in your everyday outfits. <br />You look pretty great - but of course you will be able to tweak it and make it fabulous and more authentic to "your" style. Your style is sharp, polished, modern and strong - or at least that's the way I see it .<br />Love your hair and lipstick - fab!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223904 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 23:36:11 +0000 Murph11 2223904@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Found myself sympathetic to your observations (although you look pulled together and polished) and fascinated by the interesting and helpful replies. Thank you, as always, for posting. I have a hard time wearing jeans + sneakers, as well as sweatshirts + jeans. I wouldn't be happy in all 3 at once. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223903 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 23:18:07 +0000 Sal 2223903@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What Carol and Jenn and of course Angie said.&nbsp; I think the vest, jeans and sneakers all look great.&nbsp; The sneakers are simple Euro Chic, and definitely a piece with longevity.</p> <p>The colours and tones suit you well, modern.</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223901 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 23:13:48 +0000 CarolS 2223901@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think the faded denim could still work. I could see a scarf with blue, cognac and cream over a cream or camel/cognac sweater...</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223900 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 23:11:10 +0000 NancyW 2223900@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>+1 to Jenn and others. Not enough contrast but could work in another context. I admire the ‘sharp’ in your style, this may just be too soft. The addition of the vest changed everything for the better but may have been too warm. I know what you mean about the short hair problem. It is real and it keeps me from lug sole boots! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223898 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 22:59:07 +0000 Anonymous 2223898@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ok- so once again, the forum has provided a wealth of information and insight. &nbsp;This is what I love about it . &nbsp;</p> <p>Jenn , Vildy - you know, I never considered the effect of the sweatshirt on my colouring, but you are dead right. I should have taken a cue from the dark-haired, darker-skinned model who looks so fabulous in it. She's pretty much my polar opposite, lol.</p> <p>Katerina, Angie, Suntiger, Kelly - too many casual pieces all worn at once was a mistake. It would have been fine for a trip to a market garden etc, but for urban shopping? &nbsp;Oops. &nbsp;I never dress this way, and I figured I'd branch out a bit. &nbsp;Oh well.</p> <p>Carol, Irina - yes to cream jeans (which I have ) or even something really dark. Again, the washed out denim contributed nothing here. &nbsp;Thanks for your eagle eyes!</p> <p>Angie - yes to the short hair /casual clothes issue. I know exactly what you mean, and have a post ready to go on just topic. It nagged at me all day. &nbsp;I don't do florals well unless they are blurry and moody, but even that would have been a better pattern than this tie-dye mess. And as mentioned, I should have ramped up the jewellery, but the reality of masks and sunglasses make it all messy as I'm sure you can understand ! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223897 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 22:54:48 +0000 Sloper 2223897@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm agreeing with the wise comments above.&nbsp; "Hot and bothered" ruins my day too.</p> <p>I like Angie's ideas about contrast, and maybe a scarf to soften the neckline.</p> <p>Someday let me tell you the story about the fancy London Fog coat I wanted so much in Jr. High and the one morning I wore it to the bus stop on a muggy morning. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223893 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 22:40:13 +0000 Irina 2223893@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don’t think this outfit is a failure at all. You look great in it.<div>If there is a way to improve, I’m with Angie on switching a sweatshirt to a cream or black top. The sweatshirt itself would look great with cream or white jeans or worn under your long, cream shacket. And I like how &nbsp;jeans fit you. Congratulations on your new capsules for fall.</div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223892 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 22:34:36 +0000 Preppy Pear 2223892@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I’m with Jenn all the way - your feelings are real, but your feelings are not reality. To my eye, you look pretty in #1 with those great jeans and fab in #2 with the vest. There is nothing masculine or gross about these looks! I promise, scout’s honor!<br /> I like Angie’s suggestions for styling. I think that these looks might just be a little too casual as is to make you feel like yourself.<br /> Also sending you a big virtual hug -I know how you feel, I really do. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223890 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 22:29:55 +0000 CarolS 2223890@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well, after all that build up to expect to see a horrible mess in your photos, all I saw was lovely you in a lovely casual outfit (I would suggest perhaps a tad warm yet for the temps we're having?).</p> <p>I don't love tie-dye, and I do agree that sweater washes it out a bit, but the overall outfit is nicely polished casual. I know I am biased, but the shoes are a perfect bookend for your hair. To my eye, their simplicity makes the elegant. (<i>"Simplicity is the key note of elegance." </i>Coco Chanel.)</p> <p><b>I refuse to let you grade this look as a fail!</b> I'd give it a solid B+ that has provided you with lessons you can apply to make the next outing even better. I love Angie's suggestions for adding a bit higher contrast next time. Pairing with cream jeans or soft cream sweater would also be lovely. Didn't you say you have an off white puffer and sweater on the way?&nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/sneakers-a-fall-capsule-fail-and-other-misery-91421#post-2223886 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 22:27:04 +0000 kellygirl 2223886@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>IKWYM about jeans and a sweatshirt. I'm always tempted to buy sweatshirts but they make me feel exactly how you just described. I love the outfit all assembled in the last photo. The long vest and the sneakers really pull this together and you look cohesive and hip to my eye. Totally sympathize with your frustrations though--I've been feeling this way with the transitional weather we are having. Not feeling summer and still too hot for fall. Re: the sweatshirt--can it be dressed up with a different bottom perhaps?&nbsp; </p>