https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sun, 26 Apr 2026 17:31:40 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222249 Wed, 08 Sep 2021 11:23:30 +0000 Anonymous 2222249@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yep- that's what I was trying to figure out: the role of the magpie vs the iconic statements! Both are needed :)</p> <p>ETA- I've been working on my wardrobe inventory, and writing which are essentials, iconic, and (commonly accepted) classic/capsule pieces. Many of my things don't fall into any of the categories, many magpie things. But my wardrobe size is pretty good- big enough to avoid laundry bottlenecks and have variety for my long seasons. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222156 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 22:41:57 +0000 Sal 2222156@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yes I think you nailed it with these three Suntiger...&nbsp;</p> <p>And the odd piece that is fun and affordable and will get lots of wear is okay.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222148 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 21:49:00 +0000 Anonymous 2222148@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The point of this was to separate the statements that are just trend driven, vs the things that'll have longevity.<br /> So my bell sleeve things were trend driven "stupid magpie". I liked the trend and bought them cause they were trending.</p> <p>My PC dresses were not trending, but are statements that feel iconic to me. They aren't things that were available in some way at every retail shop.</p> <p>My new black velvet blazer I'd call a classic statement. Iconic but simple. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222068 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 12:28:34 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2222068@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think I’m starting to understand what you’re saying—you want longer-lasting items, not trendy things that you’ll tire of and move on quickly (ie in a year or two). I can get behind that. </p> <p>But it seems like you are using “trend driven” and “statement” to mean the same thing. I don’t understand that. I mean, sure, trendy things often are statements, announcing their pouffy sleeves or jagged hems or whatever, but a sumptuous, timeless piece can also certainly be a head-turner/statement piece, just as much as it can be a quiet “essential” that makes you feel pampered whenever you put it on. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222063 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 11:27:11 +0000 Anonymous 2222063@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks all! Just a quick pop in cause off to work, but replacing my wardrobe with all the standard basics isn't happening. Clearly I don't look French! Those things look right on a straighter figured, brown haired, beige skinned, high value contrast person. Helena could pass- me, not so much! They assume being able to tolerate animal fibers, which I can't. You also won't find me drinking red wine or eating quiche either :)<br /> They also assume a mild climate- not humid 90s or 2 feet of snow. And last, they assume an urban lifestyle, with limited activities. Nope and nope- does not translate.</p> <p>That said- the intent for me was, as I replace pieces, to buy the simple less trend driven items instead of automatically replacing statements with more statements. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222062 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 11:17:28 +0000 LaPed 2222062@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Suntiger, I totally hear you in not having the lifestyle to support an extensive “going out”/special event capsule. Buying even one dress/jumpsuit per year has left me with a somewhat larger assortment of special outfits than I really need. One revelation, for me, was realizing I can buy “everyday-special”things. The dark floral Athleta leggings are a good example. They have all the function of a plain black pair and are in heavy rotation, but provide some interest/variety/distinctiveness. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222056 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 09:48:28 +0000 Jenni NZ 2222056@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I really really don’t like that 5-piece French wardrobe information from those links! To start with it looks from those links that as usual there is a big edit first, which these days is not very sustainable, since most people who do that won’t necessarily have very high quality stuff already. So you keep a whole load of “basics”- probably in Angie-speak “essentials”- and then you add up to another 10 pieces a year on top! It doesn’t sound like a way to reduce one’s “consumption habits”, as Sloper puts it, to me.<br /> So just to say, Suntiger, I think if you really soul search about your purchases before making them you may be able to tell the difference between the “stupid magpie” ones and the “iconic” ones.<br /> I think I am getting better over time, than in the past where I also had a lot of “stupid magpie” ones.<br /> I do agree though that it is harder when you don’t have much space for a holding zone. I have only started a deliberate holding zone this year, mainly for a few things which have fallen out of my favour just for now but still fit and are perfectly good. They have all bar two had over 30 wears. I wouldn’t call them iconic but all good quality and everyday. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222045 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 04:44:32 +0000 Jenn 2222045@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sloper, thanks for that link. AfterDRK was the blog I was thinking of that codified the concept. And yes, sorry for the derailing!</p> <p>Brooklyn, I really like this “iconic” concept, and think it’s worth thinking about even in a small wardrobe. Those pieces bring joy and create character. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222044 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 04:31:42 +0000 Brooklyn 2222044@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Just wanted to say I use the “iconic” category to give myself permission to buy and keep a small number of items that won’t get worn a lot. Now that I work from home my lifestyle is quite casual, but dressier, “going out” items give me MUCH MORE joy than casual, everyday items. This is my way of finding a balance.</p> <p>I deliberately use the word “iconic” to set the benchmark high. It really makes me analyse whether an item that is only going to get occasional wear is worthy of a place in my wardrobe. And my definition of iconic is personal to me, like Sally said. There should be signature elements. Aspects that I have consistently gravitated to over time. Maybe a HEWI element. Not too “of the moment”. Also ageless. Would this be age appropriate (for me) in 10 years time? And good quality. Likely to last. </p> <p>But, to reiterate, iconic doesn’t have to be expensive or statement-ish. I class these pants as iconic (for me). They are great quality, interesting, classic, not expensive. Iconic for me because I love full length, tailored, wide leg pants and have never really been on board with cropped or slim leg pants (which might be iconic for someone else). They don’t get a lot of wear because I favour jeans, skirts and shorts for everyday wear. But I do occasionally enjoy wearing dressier pants. I’ve had these for 3, maybe 4, years now and have not tired of them in any way. Size and wear permitting, I imagine I will have them for some years yet. They give me joy.</p> <p>So, ST, getting back to your original problem. I think 10 “iconic” items a year would be too much if you only have a small wardrobe and you plan to keep them for a long time. Maybe one iconic item per season? Also, it depends on if you find them. Some seasons you might find 2 or 3, some none at all. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222043 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 04:27:22 +0000 Sloper 2222043@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks <b>Jenn </b>and <b>SF.</b><b><br /></b><br />I found this -&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="https://frenchgirldaily.com/5-piece-french-wardrobe/">https://frenchgirldaily.com/5-.....-wardrobe/</a>&nbsp;which talks about its origins (with links).&nbsp; Though don't know if this connects to what Jenn mentioned.</p> <p>Suntiger - sorry for the thread derail.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>I definitely do need to think about my consumption habits and the excuses I make to myself.</p> <p><b></b> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222032 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 03:09:51 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2222032@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><i> she did pull most of her essentials from her current wardrobe</i></p> <p>Cool. Fits together with the claims made about this strategy much better than what comes up in a casual browse does. I am only a casual observer of pre-planned shopping strategies. I see the current usage seems to be “all your usuals plus five special things”, was not aware of the history. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222031 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 03:03:25 +0000 Jenn 2222031@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>FWIW, I researched the 5PF pretty extensively when I first started it, and it was conceived by a capsule wardrobe blogger who leaned toward minimalism, and she did pull most of her essentials from her current wardrobe. It wasn’t an “industry” conceit, however it’s been marketed and reframed since. I’d point you to the blog, but I don’t think it’s around anymore. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance/page/2#post-2222030 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 02:54:54 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2222030@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sloper, I assume you mean that rhetorically, right? Have you ever seen an article about somebody pulling together a 5PFW from stuff she already has? Even better for sales, the idea of chic &amp; sleek has a lot of people discarding their pre-existing wardrobe, so they’re ripe to buy more after a few rounds. Or there’s this take on it, in which the 5 pieces are on top of everything else <a href="https://www.mademois-elle.com/5pfw-the-french-wardrobe-challenge/" rel="nofollow">https://www.mademois-elle.com/.....challenge/</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2222029 Tue, 07 Sep 2021 02:33:25 +0000 Sloper 2222029@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>A very interesting thread.</p> <p>I think 5PFW can be a useful concept.&nbsp; For me, an intuitive (ok emotional) shopper I could see this working as a means of discipline.&nbsp; No scattershot shopping throughout the year.&nbsp; Adding a statement only with the seasons - 4x a year. And now that I'm not working, and my external activities are constrained for the foreseeable future - to examine purchases much more carefully - and questioning my need for "statements" anymore.</p> <p>And a little rant:<br />If only they didn't call it "French" ;-)<br />I kinda feel like it's the fashion industry pushing my buttons:&nbsp;"Slap the word "French" on it!&nbsp; That makes it special - Americans love French women!"&nbsp; Whatever it is called, it's a good common sense idea.&nbsp; Though I wonder if "they" (the fashion powers that be) mean for it to be way of me constraining my shopping instead of buying more. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221990 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 21:03:29 +0000 Sal 2221990@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It’s what makes it fun - the variety of styles and tastes. I love this aspect of the forum- when I see a blouse and think it looks like Bijou’s style or a elegant white ensemble that reminds me of Joy.</p> <p>I have defined my core staple wardrobe. Most are essentials but not all. I think the goal of the 5PFW is to focus your shopping on pieces of quality but to allow room for experimentation and joy. This is my first year so I am no expert/ my goal is to add pieces thoughtfully. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221962 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 17:09:21 +0000 Jenn 2221962@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>One thing that I think gets lost in the French 5 is that what qualifies as an essential is really only very specific, predefined items, so anything outside that is a “statement,” including pieces that Angie might call “completers.”</p> <p>I like Brooklyn’s idea that both essentials and statements can be iconic. And things like jeans and layering tees are more everyday. I have some everyday statements, too, like my floral blouses and some of my colored linen pieces. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221954 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 16:39:11 +0000 Anonymous 2221954@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is a very interesting thread and has given me lots to think about . I do think of the word *iconic* in a slightly different way but that’s not important here . An aside - I have found my most statement-y pieces to be the most costly , and that right there is a problem . Lots of $$ tied up in very expensive blazers , leather jackets etc that not get worn once in awhile . Maybe the statement-y / fun pieces need to be less important than that for me . Thanks for this thread ! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221948 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 16:15:19 +0000 rachylou 2221948@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ok this is as far as I’ve gotten: by and large I don’t carry purses, but I have a few. My Gucci is iconic and I’ve had it over 30 years. My Target is magpie. And I really should not buy another bag of either kind… </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221942 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 15:04:05 +0000 CarolS 2221942@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is an interesting thread, and I'm intrigued by the French 5 concept and the question of what makes something 'iconic'. Please forgive if I repeat things that have already been said - I've been skimming the conversation over the past couple of days, but might have missed some points.</p> <p>Steve Jobs black turtleneck was iconic to him, but certainly not unique or special. Earlier in the thread I think Audrey Hepburn's cigarette pants were mentioned -- another iconic item that isn't necessarily unique or special in an obvious way, other than how it remains so closely identified with her style. We think of them when we see those items.</p> <p>I think a personally iconic piece CAN be special and "statement"-y (I think of Brooklyn's amazing skirts), but to my way of thinking about it, iconic doesn't necessarily equal statement, IYKWIM?</p> <p>So, person one's iconic pieces might be black turtlenecks, sleek boots and Levi's 501s and person two's could be fit and flare dresses, pink shoes and hoop earrings. Person two could also own a black turtleneck, and person one could own a fit and flare dress, but these items are not iconic to them but they are classic items that still serve a purpose in their wardrobes.&nbsp;</p> <p>I think I am getting a bit convoluted, so like Nemosmom, I'm going to continue to ponder these concepts over more coffee.... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221935 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 14:30:40 +0000 Irina 2221935@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I had to think about it. What would be “iconic “ for me? Probably, something that is definitely outside of trends but not necessarily classic in style. High quality, for sure and something must be special about the item like print, cut, fabric. These will be the clothes I want to keep (and fit into) forever.<br />I have only a few pieces like, I’m still trying to identify which ones fit into this category and why.<br />I have known for a while that my closet is full of good quality, functional clothes. But it is hardly special.<br />I’m all set with more clothes then I need and from now on plan to add only iconic to me, pieces. Easily said than done. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221932 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 13:46:01 +0000 nemosmom 2221932@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This requires a deep think for me! I’ve entertained the idea of French 5, but couldn’t quite get the logistics right in my head… are “iconic” pieces the items that could also be defined as “signature” pieces? </p> <p>Does a statement piece have to be flashy to be considered a statement? </p> <p>Can my essential olive pullover be considered iconic even though it’s very boring and plain? </p> <p>If icons = signature pieces, is my $$$ waxed Barbour utility jacket more iconic than my $ thrifted Levi’s one? </p> <p>This will require more coffee </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221905 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 10:07:39 +0000 Anonymous 2221905@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>My workwear definitely crosses over to weekends- and the dressier workwear to the cultural events, like my LBDs. I just like having something a little more "extra" for those events :)<br /> Now I'm thinking maybe when I can change jobs I should work part time outside and part time at a gallery!<br /> My PC things do go to work. They're good options for the iconic statements!</p> <p>Where is the sun???? It's almost 6:30 and I want to SUP!!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221904 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 10:06:04 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2221904@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I see. We are saying different things with “well made, more intentional”. I don’t mean “fancy”; I think those descriptors can apply to many fabrics.<br /> Are magpie pieces the ones that give you a little thrill when you put them on? I would think your PC clothes would too. They’re too expensive to stock up on, but having a few in your closet could give you a little fun wow feeling when you pull them out. Wear it to work a few times, launder it, and move onto something else, until you rediscover that PC thing another time. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221900 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 09:42:36 +0000 Sal 2221900@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think a cultural event capsule is a great idea! I also agree with your outdoorsy lifestyle and work that “events” wear is not a big part of the lifestyle. Potentially there can be crossover eg Birkenstocks, a knit dress that can be worn for work with sandals or to see family with slides. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221898 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 09:35:53 +0000 Star (Lise) 2221898@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Brooklyn&nbsp;</b>everything you have written makes so much sense.&nbsp; Lightbulb going on for me is that something worn less often should not be trendy.&nbsp; Your example of a blazer rather being in a classic shape/colour is spot on for me too.&nbsp; This is a golden nugget of information for going forward for me! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221896 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 09:24:12 +0000 Anonymous 2221896@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Biggest issue for me with my wardrone is space- my closet is tiny. There's not really any place to store and rotate items. Even my garage is stuffed with everything from FILs house :/ </p> <p>When I say my lifestyle can't sustain having a bunch of great statement pieces, I mean my activities. My daily life is mostly work, helping family, and being outside to reset from the rest. I'd love to buy beautiful arty things in silk and velvet- those gallery opening/jazz concert/theatre kinda things. I just haven't had time to do those things much. And TBH those are night events and I am not a night person. At All. 5am I'm good, 5pm not so much!<br /> Maybe I just need to think of a "cultural event" capsule for the iconic type statements!<br /> Will respond more later </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221862 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 03:21:50 +0000 Sal 2221862@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I understand your thoughts Suntiger - I can also be drawn to the fun items.</p> <p>I am trying a version of the 5PFW- my goal is to reduce my purchasing and focus.&nbsp; Of my winter additions that I consider to be my five pieces - the shoes are possibly not a real statement.&nbsp; But I didn't feel that they were essential either (like upgrading my straight jeans or my cognac bag).&nbsp; I would say that they are all somewhat "in fashion" but probably the pink sweater feels like the piece that might date or I might tire of the quickest.</p> <p>I haven't yet worn my dress and this is likely to be a piece with low PUPY (how many times can you wear a dress with cape sleeves and a sheer skirt?).&nbsp; But I also see it is fun, it is nice quality, and not especially "of the moment".</p> <p>In terms of iconic pieces that I will always hold onto, there are less than I might hope.&nbsp; Maybe only the last four finds (my black sheath, my jade green Argentinian sandals, my blazer and my kimono).&nbsp; </p> <p>To be iconic I think top quality (not necessarily expensive) and very much in keeping with your style persona.&nbsp; That doesn't mean classic, but just perfect for you.&nbsp; Jenn's statement duster is iconic for her, but might not be for someone else, as with Brooklyn's teal flares.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>I think bags are a good candidate for icons as are jackets and blazers and dresses (for some of us).&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221853 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 02:36:07 +0000 slim cat 2221853@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What&nbsp;<b>Brooklyn&nbsp;</b>wrote helped me to differentiate between my moto jackets: All Saints black leather as iconic and couple much less expensive ones from Kut of the Kloth and BR Factory as "magpie" items. They are nice but I don't expect the same level of fit/comfort/style as my fav leather one.<br />I think I don't have enough of true iconic items for now - it takes time and effort to find the right ones.&nbsp;<br />Thank you for starting this conversation and for adding personal thoughts/ideas - it helps! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221852 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 02:11:19 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2221852@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You don’t have the lifestyle to sustain better quality, more intentional pieces? I don’t understand. Do you mean financially? </p> <p>What you define as a problem—building a wardrobe of iconic statement pieces large enough that you can rotate them in and out according to your mood—is exactly what I think would be the goal and the way to stop the repeated quick hits of trendy stuff that gets old/worn/tiresome quickly. I have no idea if anyone would call my clothes “iconic”, but that strategy is exactly what I use. I’ve posted a lot of WIWs this year, almost none of them the “I wore my new x” variety. Creativity comes in wearing the same item different ways from time to time and mixing pieces from different seasons/eras. But I do agree with you &amp; Jenn that ten a year is a fast pace.</p> <p>ETA Brooklyn (writing at the same time as I was) makes a great point about trendy—it doesn’t have to mean disposable or poor quality. Even outlet stores can have good quality merch. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stupid-magpie-vs-iconic--finding-balance#post-2221850 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 02:01:55 +0000 Brooklyn 2221850@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don’t think there’s anything wrong with picking up inexpensive trendy or statement things on a whim at the outlets, as long as you plan to wear them a lot. What I’m looking to avoid is the trendy item that doesn’t get worn a lot and then gets passed on within a couple of years (and because it’s off trend probably ends up at recycling or in landfill). </p> <p>But even in my inexpensive and/or trendy items, I look for quality, especially in fabrication. I don’t hold with buying cute acrylic jumpers that I know will pill within a dozen wears or so, for instance. I think quality items hold up to a lot of wear.</p> <p>This skirt for instance. I would call it an everyday item because I wear it at least 2 times a week in summer. It’s a trendy piece (shirring, check print). Not iconic but it is a statement piece. It’s tencel and it’s stood up to a lot of washing (summer stuff gets washed a lot). Apart from a slight relaxation in the shirring, it’s in great shape after 3 summers of hard wear. </p> <p>So maybe try to be picky about the quality of your statement items? (Not trying to lecture you or anyone else here. I am definitely not the person to be giving lessons in wardrobe management!) </p>