YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Struggling with essentials.

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Struggling with essentials. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1 Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 07 Apr 2026 21:41:57 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Gigi on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997934 Fri, 01 Feb 2019 04:16:21 +0000 Gigi 1997934@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I wish I had some good advice for you, but I often feel that I am in the same spot. I like my essentials to be pretty classic but not *too* classic, and when you start dealing with fit issues, it can be really hard to find the right thing. And although I'm willing to pay more than I'd like for a hard-working essential, I have my limits. For instance, two years ago I found a James Pearse tee that was close to exactly what I wanted--but I couldn't justify the $100+ price tag for the material, which looked like it would disintegrate after a single season of hard wear. (Luckily, J. Crew came out with an almost identical tee for literally a quarter of the price, and so I ordered two.) I guess my only suggestion would be that if you do find something that looks just right but is a little higher priced than you'd like to pay, go ahead and treat yourself, at least in a couple of instances. See how it goes. If you really enjoy wearing the purchases, maybe it will be easier to funnel more of your budget into esentials. Sal on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997822 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 20:17:57 +0000 Sal 1997822@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Lisa - I have the list but whether I stick to it is another matter!! Love what Gryffin wrote here rather than think of them as boring, they become chameleons that allow other statements to shine but are so wonderful that they enhance the whole experience. I do agree with that and need to remember to put that into action myself.  I have a black tee that I love and always feel good wearing - it just has a couple of small details that make it more fun/special/flattering than most black tees that I find.  It has a scoop neck and a twisted side seam.  Anonymous on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997782 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 18:38:47 +0000 Anonymous 1997782@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am really hoping the Eileen Fisher shell works out! Anonymous on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997779 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 18:29:36 +0000 Anonymous 1997779@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ LaP - great suggestion to look at Uniqlo. A coworker was wearing really nice black jeans yesterday, which she said were from...Uniqlo!  Must see what they have.  Boden is not really my aesthetic either, and as much as I appreciate and admire the colourful fun look , it's not where I need to focus much attention.  Not familiar with Grana, but am off to check it out now!  Gretchen - I admit I'm alterations-adverse, mostly because it adds yet another 3-4 steps to the whole process.  However, if I'm going to continue to invest in better clothes, I need to find one I can trust.  And good point about identifying the success factors in essentials that do work. Column - I'm no stalker at all, but maybe I have to become one!  Jenn - I feel like I've been stepping back and waiting for too long, thus the overall unhappiness with my essentials pieces.  I also don't like turning simple shopping into a world-class tracking mission , as it gives me zero pleasure and takes a lot of time.  Off to look at maximizer/satisficer info....not even sure what that is  I'm totally fine with high- low and my closet is representative of it, moreso in the statement pieces. I've decided essentials need to be the best they can be in order to satisfy me.   Keturah - thanks for taking the time to write such a thoughtful reply.  You're another one who advocates for a good tailor ... Thanks Lynn   Sal - again, you're so practical and effective in your shopping. A list? What's that?  ;)   Suz - gryffin mentioned the Jackie shell too. I'll have to check it out. I don't do sleeves under jackets, but was just curious what you wear.  I wish I could wear a mock or turtle (sleeveless) . That would be a great piece to add. I think it brings too much focus to my rapidly aging neck now though.....yuck. Suntiger - yes, cost per wear is a perfect way to look at buying essentials.  And you are right - I'm more inclined to buy a better quality essential than an inexpensive , lesser-quality piece.  I'd like the simple essentials to be able to hold their own while wearing them, and not have them be something you're embarrassed to show if you take a jacket off etc.   aliceinwonderland - sounds like you and I are on the same page .   elpgal - YES - and my size has fluctuated so much in the last 6-7 years.  It never did, and maybe that is what's holding me back.  kkards - yes, I can talk you into any expensive thing we can find you  Let's go shopping ! Von on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997706 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 15:58:44 +0000 Von 1997706@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <div>I love buying *anything but essentials* mainly because it sounds like a daunting task to buy that ONE hard working thing that will be a mainstay - and of course, we think that means we have to pay a lot up front for it. But if you think that a black tank top might be a good addition to your work wardrobe, but you're not sure, why not go buy a Gap Body black tank and see if you actually wear that first before finally upgrading that piece to a nice quality linen tank or silk tank? You might come to find you think tanks are dumb and you're glad you only spent $16 on it </div><div> </div><div>This fall, I had the crazy idea that I should get rid of a lot I didn't wear and buy a small capsule of "essential pieces" for the winter. It was EXTREMELY boring. I mean very boring for me to locate things I'd wear solidly - also, that meant no wild colors (gotta like the idea of it before I branch out!). But looking back over this fall + winter so far, I wear both cashmere sweaters 1-2x per week and the 2 pairs of basic black work pants I got in my PERFECT FITS and had tailored, I wear them all of the time also.  I LOVE items of flair, if there is something shiny, flashy, red, or leopard print out there...I want it, and usually those things are easy to buy because I see them on me, living their best life (hahah!), but I tell you, I've never had an easier time getting dressed for work! These pieces just work. No fuss. When cashmere goes on sale, I'll add two more *fun* colors to the mix, but for now, black and gray basics have taken me VERY far!  I went "all out" and bought a dark blush colored silk tank, and while I love the feel and it works with every single blazer I own, as much as I want to be, I don't think I'm a silk girl (its soooo hot!)- but I just might be onto something with basic shell tank tops under blazers. Live and learn...right?  </div> RobinF on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997678 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 15:12:04 +0000 RobinF 1997678@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have this issue too. I like to have items that fit well and have a hard time finding them but partly because I don't want to spend a lot. It probably wouldn't be as big an issue if I were willing to spend the money. But I also feel like I am picky and hard to fit. Anonymous on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997645 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 13:46:24 +0000 Anonymous 1997645@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am sensitive to your dilemma.  I haven't come up with anything that is helpful though.  Best wishes as you work to strike a balance.   Anonymous on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997641 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 13:39:55 +0000 Anonymous 1997641@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Responding to comments on page 1 shortly !  (one needs two screens to toggle back and forth without losing your typing - gah!)  Anonymous on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997639 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 13:38:34 +0000 Anonymous 1997639@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Such great replies here - thank you all!  Sorry for the delay : I worked late last night and needed to decompress after a long, cold day .   Jessikams - my go-to for athleisure is Lululemon and MPG, and I'm happy with that. I'm looking for pieces for my "other" life where I need/want dressier/nicer pieces.   Irina - you sound like a very thoughtful and dedicated shopper, and looks like we like the same brands. Focusing on a few brands/lables that work is a great idea (as Angie mentioned earlier). I need to find a dependable tailor , stat. missvee - I indeed have a 55+ person in my life......ME!  I didn't know The Bay did seniors discounts.  Hmm.  Anyways, I do like Aritzia and buy the odd piece there. Their pants works me, camis and tanks: less so (cut is wrong, too straight and too low in front) . I did just buy a gorgeous heavy charmeuse blouse with beautiful detailing that I love  though!  gryffin - thanks for all of the ideas!  Everlane is indeed back on my radar,and I'll be checking them out today.  And you hit the nail on the head:  I need/want/enjoy wearing clothing that feels luxurious and special.  I am willing to spend the $ on good pieces, it's finding them that is the issue.  I'm contradicting myself a bit through this post, and I realize that.....I think reading and writing all of this has brought me back full circle to realizing that it's the best-quality essentials that my $ should go toward, not fun sneakers and sweaters   whidebey girl - nodding along to what you are saying ....also not having a clear idea of my style making it harder Jessikams on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997513 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 01:52:19 +0000 Jessikams 1997513@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ For me, essentials are usually used as under-layers, pieces of an outfit that won’t really be super visible (leggings, skinnies, stretch tees). I buy some of those at outlets but also find that athleisure-type brands can be a good source: they make things that fit smoothly and can stand up to hard wear and laundering. This is really important to me- I hate putting in the effort to select a perfect thing, only to see it fall apart in the wash or get snagged by a zipper or a fingernail. Hate delicate clothes!! And I don’t like to bother with babying my essentials. My go-to for this would be Athleta, but you probably have some similar version where you live. Columbia is also great for basic sportswear-ish pieces that can cross over into casual everyday wear. Irina on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997497 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 01:00:50 +0000 Irina 1997497@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I share your struggles, Lisa, when it comes to price, longevity, fit of essential items. I came up with some guidelines for myself, may be you will find them somewhat useful. My essential pants are only from Massimo Dutti, COS and Theory (from The Bay on sale). I accept that pants will almost always require some alterations. And I’m OK with that. I have a good tailor from Nordstrom, who is not cheap. For me, it is worth it. I buy occasionally a pair of trendy pants from Zara, no money wasted on alterations, though. The best blazers (they go on sale) are from Massimo Dutti, in my opinion but They fit a standard height, so luck for me. But I try anyway. I mix higher end sweaters from The Bay or Winners like Vince or Theory with cashmere from Joe Fresh. Love them equally but don’t expect JF to last for more than 3 years. Jeans are only from design brands and on sale. They are essential for me but I still can’t part with $200. So, it takes forever to find it. I’m used to it, endlessly checking sales, trying, searching. But no compromise. I know Angie suggests to try all retailers and I do but I found which ones work for me, especially for essential pieces. I sometimes pay a full price, especially if panicking but mostly wait for sales. The process of acquiring essentials is slow and frustrating for me Ket on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997475 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 23:44:36 +0000 Ket 1997475@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ elpgal, the ON camis, I didn’t even consider them! I once wore them several years ago, but hadn’t revisited them at all. Thank you for the great share! missvee on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997471 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 23:21:59 +0000 missvee 1997471@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Just chiming in to recommend Aritzia. I have the Babaton Akira blouse in off white, and the quality is superb - substantial fabric, great drape, washes well. I’m eyeing the sleeveless version for spring to wear under a blazer. Yes it’s polyester, but I don’t always want silk, especially for travelling. I notice there are several camis on their website too that might be worth a look. Another option - Olsen. Only a fraction of the stock is shown on The Bay’s website (and what IS shown is so poorly displayed that it’s pitiful) so unless you can check in-store you won’t find much. And for quality/price, it’s hard to beat Eddie Bauer’s long sleeved, crew neck, all cotton tees. The neckline is great, not too high, and after many, many washings it still sits nice and flat. These might be more casual than you want though. As to EF, well I love everything I’ve ever bought from this brand, but the prices are crazy high now. I have my eye on the washable silk tank that everyone seems to rave about. If it’s available at The Bay I may try to order it on Seniors’ Day to get the discount! Maybe you have a 55+ person in your life who could do that for you? Hope you keep us posted on what you order! gryffin on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997450 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 22:24:57 +0000 gryffin 1997450@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Lisa - it's bloody, bloody hard to find nice tops to wear under blazers.  I will share mine.  First I break items down to "best in class."  So I have primarily gap and madewell jeans - which I love.  I think I have exactly one pair of premium denim the C/E loved let out the hem crops and they are nice but I like my madewell better!! On Tops: 1. JCrew Jackie Shell - best value, dry clean they stay nice longer 2. Theory mock sleeveless turtlenecks wendel and I have a slightly heavier ribbed one 3. EF cami, tank, ss tee, ls tee.  You only need one and they last forever, hand wash, hang over night and they are perfect and feel so good on!! 4. Everlane $100 cashmere - black, charcoal, pearl.  Best winter tees ever 5. Everlane oversized boyfriend blazers - Best value in class boyfriend blazers  Now we all like what we like and I am a minimalist compared to most.  But just something to ponder...there's a difference in the experience wearing clothing that feels wonderful on, drapes, perfectly, is literally effortless.  EF silk, to me is that.  There's a whole book entitled "Simple isn't easy."  And Malcolm Levine's book "10 steps to fashion freedom" is very much about that.  Like your McQ black skull scarf, it's a different tactile experience and these pieces, rather than think of them as boring, they become chameleons that allow other statements to shine but are so wonderful that they enhance the whole experience.  That's why they are worth the money and work to find, at least for me.  Hope that helps! whidbeygirl on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1/page/2#post-1997433 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 21:57:57 +0000 whidbeygirl 1997433@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ In reading all the comments I find I can empathize with lisap and others that can’t justify spending big bucks on essentials. I often look at the pieces on YLF and think Oh, I’d love that....but then when I see the price...it’s just not going to happen on my budget. I’m sure some of it is not having a clear idea of style moniker and what my signature style really is. Maybe if my purchases were not so random but part of a true plan then I could rationalize that any specific purchase is really the right piece and it will definitely move my style forward in a good way. Appreciate the different approaches everyone has shared here. LaPed on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997432 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 21:55:20 +0000 LaPed 1997432@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I agree with you and Jenn that having the "right" version of an essential is important. If the fit or fabric is off in any way, you won't reach for it and it won't serve its purpose. It may end up being a "completer" that you only wear when you have to, in order to make certain outfits work. I run into this over and over again with various wardrobe components, especially layering tops, jeans and trousers. Turtlenecks were a big one. I had one charcoal grey "completer" turtleneck for several years that was very meh but too useful to part with. Last fall I was finally able to say goodbye to it when I found my "essential" turtlenecks in black and navy. That was a happy moment. It took over a year of searching to find the perfect ribbed turtlenecks, but the time and $$ was worth it.   I agree with you that the quality at brands like Gap, BR, J Crew is largely disappointing, and I don't have the time or patience to look for the gems, especially when the fit models those companies use aren't great for me to begin with. My preferred alternative brands are Uniqlo (good substitute for Gap/ON) and Boden (good substitute for JCrew/BR). I think Uniqlo offers free shipping in Canada? I know Boden is a bit more of a pain to order from, but they do at least post garment measurements which tend to be quite accurate. I don't think Boden's aesthetic really aligns with mine (they come off as so bright and peppy!), but season after season I find a piece or two that fit seamlessly into my overall wardrobe scheme and bring a lot of joy. Love their Moon tweed pieces, and have had luck with casual dresses as well. Pretty much everything I've bought from Boden has been black, grey, ink or olive, despite the fact that they push the spring-y brights year round. :) Agree that you would do well to take the plunge on a few Everlane pieces if something has caught your eye. I've been really happy with their denim, french terry, shirting, and even a pair of sandals. I didn't love their cashmere enough to keep (I think the whole $100 cashmere thing is just ridiculous) and am not a huge fan of their t-shirts (too thin!). There's also <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.grana.com/">Grana</a>, which is based out of Hong Kong and ships just about everywhere. They are a bit like Everlane in their "transparency" claims and emphasis on stripped-down designs and accessible pricepoints, but the aesthetic is slightly different. elpgal on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997430 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 21:50:39 +0000 elpgal 1997430@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ keturah, The Old Navy camis are actually surprisingly good, not too low cut in the front, stretchy but not clingy and come in petite sizes. Gretchen on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997423 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 21:29:59 +0000 Gretchen 1997423@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I agree it can be challenging to define essentials for a specific price point and quality. And it's super frustrating to purchase a higher-priced essential and have it not work out (I'm still mad about an Eileen Fisher white tank).  I'm more willing to pay for alterations for higher priced essentials - tailoring the navy pants, yes; the white tank, no.  I also think it's worth taking time to identify what works in the essentials you have as you start to think about replacing or upgrading. For example, Boden is my go to for Bretons, why? The color scheme can be duplicated by many, but the cut, neckline and fabric weight can't. So I have to look beyond the "ooh pretty stripey shirt" response to see if the other elements work to make it turn into an essential.  Column on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997418 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 21:22:01 +0000 Column 1997418@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Agreeing with Suz, Angie (duh) and so many others. Can you find the piece(s) you want at any price and stalk them until they go on sale at a price you are comfortable paying? If you have tried them on and know what size fits in advance, you can even buy the no-return clearance. I have done that. BTW—Hobbs has the most spectacur sales! Jenn on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997417 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 21:20:51 +0000 Jenn 1997417@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I wonder if this comes down to where you sit on the maximizer/satisficer scale.  It's taken me a long time to get where I want to be with my essentials. Like Angie, mine are a high-low blend. My perfect black linen tee is from Target, but my silk blouse is from Eileen Fisher. My black silk tanks came from Garnet Hill and, sadly, they don't sell the same style anymore, so that's going to be a whole new search when these wear out. My boyfriend jeans are Old Navy, but my skinny jeans are Good American.  It helps to not try to do it all at once. Search for "your" black tank and, when you find it, wear the heck out of it while you search for "your" trouser, etc. It's super-frustrating, I know, and sometimes you just need to step back. I should have done that last year when I was searching for the "perfect" leather jacket. The one I ended up with was not, in fact, perfect, and I never wear it. Ugh. Ket on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997414 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 21:13:49 +0000 Ket 1997414@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I don't know that I have any tips for you. I feel your pain though! Currently, I can only afford the low end basics. Target changed their store brand tanks (they used to be a medium weight draped rayon with lovely adjustable lingerie straps) to cheap, thin material. So still trying to find affordable but decent quality camisoles. I'm told the Uniqlo are good ones. So I want to try those next! <div> </div><div>I have tended to buy according to my mood or feelings. But I'm playing with style moniker again, and I do think it is helping. Every garment I look at or pick up recently I ask: does this item say sensual, romantic, or passionate? If it doesn't, it goes back to whence it came from. I also ask myself if a man would wear the item. (no joke! A great question if you tend toward romantic, ladylike, or womanly styles.) These questions are hugely helpful, but it's getting used to pausing and asking after a lifetime of buying clothes because it looks nice on the hanger or is the current trend. I mention this, because I find it applies a little to some essential items.</div><div> </div><div>And...second a tailor!!!! My tailor is no longer nearby. She's almost a 2 hour drive one-way. But I'm considering taking a stack of clothes to her this spring to be fitted, and then have her mail them to me. She makes the cheapest clothes look incredibly good on me, I kid you not. It's worth taking a $10 shirt to her, paying $5-15 for the tailoring. It looks like a much more expensive shirt than, simply because it fits. I wouldn't spend that on a shirt that would shrink when it's washed, obviously. But a clearance rack item from Old Navy or Gap, or even TJ Maxx? absolutely!</div><div> </div> Lynn on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997400 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 20:17:01 +0000 Lynn 1997400@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I can commiserate with you Lisa P on struggling to find good quality essentials (now that I have identified them). I am very picky about fit and not easy to fit so it is a constant struggle. I alway feel like I end up compromising and then feel dissatisfied with my clothing.  BTW- So glad you are posting again. I always enjoy your threads and comments.  Sal on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997390 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 19:46:39 +0000 Sal 1997390@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Not all my essentials are high quality nor perfect (in some cases especially when wearing jackets or knits on top I am fine with that). To keep myself focused on getting essentials I do write a seasonal shopping list including them so I don't get distracted by the fun statement pieces.  I don't always get them all for budgetary reasons or lack of options.   Suz on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997372 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 18:46:07 +0000 Suz 1997372@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ What I wear under blazers: in winter, knit tops. Examples below. Sometimes button front shirts or blouses, but less frequently. For night, maybe a pretty top like the floral jacquard. But that's unusual.  In warmer temps, t-shirts, including graphic tees, and sleeveless tops, some knit, most woven. The Jackie shell is a good example of a knit top I use. Examples below. Not all are "essentials."  I don't mind sleeves inside jackets in winter, which I know bothers a lot of people. I guess it's the shape of my arms or something -- it's not an issue for me.  Anonymous on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997364 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 18:38:25 +0000 Anonymous 1997364@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Would it help to think of it in terms of cost per wear? A $200 workhorse isn't as painful as a $200 benchwarmer. Do you feel that better quality will make you choose them more often, or will they still seem too plain for your style? Also, will you be afraid of ruining something you spent a lot for, so it could get less use? Its a balancing act. Alicewonderland on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997363 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 18:35:19 +0000 Alicewonderland 1997363@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Lisa, I know you don’t like online but if you look on eBay there are a lot of Eileen fisher pieces (plus other designers) for very affordable prices. Maybe just have a little look. I have one EF silk shell I got from eBay for $26. It’s gorgeous and long lasting in a way that I think others just can’t be. My essential silk cami I found on eBay is a Diane von Furstenburg navy silk cami, perfect for me, for $20. I expect it to last me a while, and now when I go into regular retail stores I just cannot get myself to spend $20 on a cheap polyester cami (nor do I need to because I already have a good one).I still get things like tights and jeans from stores though. My favorite for those basics is uniqlo. llbean has also been very satisfying for essentials like striped tops and tees. Anyway, I completely understand how you feel I felt that way about essentials for a long time too. Also you don’t have get them all in one year. Good essentials will last long and don’t need constant replacing. elpgal on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997361 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 18:21:34 +0000 elpgal 1997361@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Controversial viewpoint but for me it is easier to invest money and time into essentials when I stay the same size. (I am currently wearing essentials from Old Navy and Poshmark for this reason.) kkards on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997356 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 17:48:28 +0000 kkards 1997356@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ lisa p....we should shop together...i can't seem to stop buying essentials and have no problem spending $ on them, because i justify, they are the backbone of my wardrobe....on the other hand, i never feel i get my moneys worth out of statement pieces, and so tend to not buy them or buy them based on sale price..... Anonymous on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997355 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 17:46:31 +0000 Anonymous 1997355@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Suz - thank you for taking the time to add in a few good links.  Travelsmith?  What the heck is that?    But you're right - some good things here.  Everlane is a great idea.  What do you wear under blazers?   Anonymous on "Struggling with essentials." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-essentials-1#post-1997351 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 17:28:41 +0000 Anonymous 1997351@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Yes!  I absolutely agree that higher prices don't always guarantee a great piece.  However........my current collection of lower end stuff (particularly tops and a few jackets) really doesn't work hard for me.  Suz, my GAP jeans and shorts last forever too, maybe that was a bad example. I'm thinking more of tops, tanks, sweaters, trousers etc.  And yeah, I am really, really particular and picky.  I ended up buying two black sleeveless tops at BR Factory Outlet (or whatever it's called), and only the low price I paid is stopping me from taking one of them back. I just can't be bothered, for the $14.99 or whatever it was.  Grrr.  Anyways - I'm not arguing the hi-low concept at all , in fact, that's the crux of my closet. Smythe blazers alongside Dynamite bombers. Ha!   Angie - settling on a concept has eluded me too. I don't know what I want until I see it , half the time, and my look is constantly changing.  You're right, I need to settle down and commit.  Emulating someone ? I'd have to think about that .    You're a natural-born teacher, aren't you?  I feel suitably admonished and straightened out now   Oh , and as for on-line shopping, I'm doing far more of it than I ever did, and the reason I dislike it is because of it's inherent inefficiency.