YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Style 2016

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Style 2016 https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016 Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 28 Apr 2026 03:34:51 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Ginger on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016/page/2#post-1620040 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 13:59:43 +0000 Ginger 1620040@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I read this whole discussion with a smile on my face. I love how excited you are! It's so wonderful to have a clear vision.  Good luck!!! Beth Ann on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016/page/2#post-1620019 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 11:43:09 +0000 Beth Ann 1620019@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sounds like a wonderful book, Brooklyn.  I'll be sure to check it out.  We can all use just a touch of old Hollywood glamour. Brooklyn on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016/page/2#post-1619982 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 05:43:28 +0000 Brooklyn 1619982@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi Beth Ann, I thought I did not have anything to contribute to this excellent and well thought out post, but it turns out I do I am a big fan of 1930s American movies. There is a book called "Those Glorious Glamour Years" by Margaret Bailey that is dedicated to Hollywood fashion in the 1930s. I highly recommend it. It is a wonderful book for inspiration or just to keep on your coffee table. You might pick it up second hand or on Amazon. I look forward to seeing how your style evolves Beth Ann on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619968 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 05:19:14 +0000 Beth Ann 1619968@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Betty Crocker:  Thanks for the feedback on the Sofft sandals!  I'm needing a pair of this type! Shevia:  That's a great idea -- I'll do some gathering of pics tomorrow or Thursday! Celia -- Thanks for chiming in!  With all this studying, the encouragement is so welcome!  Lucy --- I think everyone likes being around people who know "who they are," no matter the age.  It is, however, easier to do this when you're not an outlier of some type, whether by age, race, gender or personality.   I hold on to the fact that I love diverse style, personalities and ages around me in my life --- I find it invigorating, and I hope my future coworkers will to. Suz:  Yes, think of me.  If they "go for it" and step on the metaphorical gas, it'll be an amazing day.  If they ride the brake, afraid they'll fail, it'll be oh. so. hard!  I'm guessing you've seen both these scenarios in your classes! Carla on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619958 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 04:55:59 +0000 Carla 1619958@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Beth Ann, I am so excited for you! Lots of good advice and wisdom has already been offered. I think the cropped trousers, and especially some of the more flowy ones that almost work like a midi skirt could work. They are trendy enough to read as modern, but would allow for a greater range of movement than a skirt or dress. Suz on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619956 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 04:30:11 +0000 Suz 1619956@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Those are some lucky kids! Wow!! Lucy on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619950 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 03:49:10 +0000 Lucy 1619950@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Such an interesting and thoughtful post! Thank you for sharing your thoughts Beth Ann, and what exciting new developments! Part of my job is teaching older teenagers, from about 17 upwards (still babies, really!) I actually think they like it when you know who you are, ie I dress for me, not for them! Thinking about clothes with movement and flux is exciting, but I would be less worried about "fitting in" - in my guestimate, they don't see us like them  - hello age! So we might as well be ourselves.  celia on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619945 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 03:04:58 +0000 celia 1619945@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Beth Ann I am so excited about all these great things happening in your life. I have no advice for now but will look forward to see how you will dazzle in your new adventures. Jaime on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619918 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 02:32:16 +0000 Jaime 1619918@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I absolutely love Angie's inspiration pictures for you. (Lauren Bacall is a favorite of mine.) Your analysis sound right on target. The only suggestion I can add to all of the above would be to find some of your past WIWs that most align with your current vision and let us find what actually worked about them. I remember you had some super outfits this past year! Beth Ann on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619914 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 02:26:53 +0000 Beth Ann 1619914@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ginger:  "Believe it or Dot" and "Esteemed Achievement" are my favorites.  Off to check out more! Beth Ann on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619911 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 02:23:36 +0000 Beth Ann 1619911@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Una:  I'm going to need some YLF breaks to get me through this studying!  Everything from major minor scales and modes, to statistics and psychotropic medications.  I think it'll be --- read two chapter, 15 minutes on YLF, make 15 note cards, 10 minutes on Pinterest........ Suz:  Thank you for taking the time to make such a thoughtful reply!  I know you are incredibly busy with school, creative endeavors and work -- oh, and of course, there's the whole "girl in high school" thing...... I would love to hear your libretto!  I'm a big fan of Picander's writing for Bach (my personal favorite is "Jesus soll mein erstes wort" from BMV 171.  I also love Auden's libretto for Stravinsky's "Rake's Progress." For modern stuff -- Nixon in China and Heggie's Dead Man Walking. As for fashion --- I find that I can tell even in the dressing room whether a polyester will breath well enough or not, and woven blouses are my favorite ways to dress -- sometimes with a jacket or sweater as a topper.  Your statement about water makes me want to renew my search for a lovely bag with a secure spot for water.  As a singer, it is always with me.  Unfortunately, backpacks aren't a great look on a frame with major breasts -- they make me feel "thick."  This item is a HEWI!  As for shoes, you and I are absolutely on the same page!  When teaching at the University, I had lovely 3 inch heels -- I drove to and from work, and didn't do a lot of walking during the day.  Now, I'm focusing on block heels and wedges of 1 - 2 inches.  I'll need to be picky about support and comfort, but I don't have a lot of restrictions, fortunately! This Saturday I do an 8 hour workshop on vocal improvisation to a group of 30, yes, that's 30, 12-18 year olds!  I think I'll need a lot of caffeine and a nap at lunch! Anonymous on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619861 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 00:59:22 +0000 Anonymous 1619861@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have the Sofft "Brreeze" sandals. They're really nice. I have the metallic color, which is really versatile. Suz on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619848 Wed, 24 Feb 2016 00:39:23 +0000 Suz 1619848@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Beth Ann, this is an amazing analysis and discussion! Thank you so much for inviting us to share your style musings. And congratulations on your new ventures! This is so exciting! And -- can you believe our parallel lives? Here we are again, 50-something students. Oh, how I wish I could hear your performances. That would be such a treat. Better yet, how I wish you could perform my libretto!!! I just heard some of the music for the first time today and it was SO THRILLING!!!! The story (really just a 5 minute dramatic scene)  is called "One Child" and I am sure it would speak to you.  I love the idea of wavy hair for you (I have always loved it when your hair waved a little by design or luck). And I also adore your influences, as you know. Strong and feminine -- bold and calm -- dramatic and sensitive to others -- you have it all.  Onto your fashion challenges -- these, as you know, are very similar to my own this past year. I found that refreshing my denim capsule and adding a few easy-care blouses gave me a needed boost and helped me feel more true to my style goals while also fulfilling my needs. I had been refusing to wear polyester for years on grounds of its being too hot, but it turns out that the wash-n-wear aspect (and low price tag) has encouraged me to wear these blouses in more casual situations than I would wear my silks. And that has been a good thing for my style.  I always plan to move during my day and I almost never wear gear to do it (except when at the gym or on a heavy-duty mountain hike or out skating or swimming or some such thing). My "secret" -- if you can call it that -- really boils down to the following:  <ul> <li>Layers in transitional and cold weather. (Not in hot weather, obviously). </li> <li>A tote bag or a fashion backpack into which some of those layers can go if I need to remove them as I walk. In cold weather I will keep a hat and gloves tucked into the bag if necessary. </li> <li>Clothes that permit movement -- which might mean jeans, culottes, shorts (if a casual situation), or even a stretchy tube skirt. I won't wear pencil skirts without stretch for daily wear, or only rarely, if not planning to walk anywhere.</li> <li>A very lightweight water bottle that fits into the tote or backpack so that I never feel parched. </li> <li>Comfortable but fashionable footwear. </li> </ul> The last is, of course, the holy grail. Boots and booties work well in cooler temps. Block heels have been a useful trend to embrace. I can get that little bit of height without sacrificing walkability. Gladiator style sandals also offer support for walking. I have loved my Sofft sandals the past couple of years and literally wore them into the ground. If you foot fits Clarks you might get similar results from those. I would search long and hard for the right sandal that allows real walking and not worry about wearing it out.  I fully support the addition of a conference and interview capsule! This will allow you to enjoy the dressier items you look so beautiful in, and is completely justified. Remember that even if you do not wear these items as often, they are still necessary. I had not worn my navy blazer for months and felt a little guilty seeing it languish in the closet -- until I went to give presentations out west and promptly wore it 10 times in as many days!  My experience with the "youngsters," for what it is worth: On many days, I am dressed pretty much identically to them because we all have to crawl around on dirty floors. But on days when I am dressed better, like today when I had to give a presentation immediately after my class, they are completely accepting and offer compliments. I think if you dress in your beautiful flowing trousers some days, it will inspire them!!  I'm going to hunt up some example outfits of "gear that isn't gear" to show you.... catgirl on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619836 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 23:44:18 +0000 catgirl 1619836@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Goodness, how awesome you are, Beth Ann.  I am amazed that you came up with such a thoughtful post, let alone the energy to implement it.  I look forward to seeing the concrete results of these efforts! Beth Ann on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619829 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 23:22:31 +0000 Beth Ann 1619829@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Yes, Angie!  I'm going to have to wait a few weeks for my next cut, but I hope to debut it for Easter. Caro:  8-10 are fab, and would be so practical for my "real" life.  I have a tough time getting that sort of fit in a shirt.  I'm broad enough in the shoulder, and long enough in the torso, that a man's shirt just might work -- if the sleeve length were OK. Ginger:  So very helpful!  I also think the sleeves are likely to be the biggest issue for me with this period.  I'm thinking an elbow sleeve could almost always sub for the puff -- but of course, I would need to be the seamstress! Curiously, my Sewing Pinterest board shows a lot of these styles -- mostly Burda patterns.  I can sew, but would need to stick to items that are quick.  I've been thinking about mastering a fuller skirt pattern that I could use over again -- it's a good place to start! I'll check your links out tonight, when I'm watching Doctor Who with DS!  Who knows, maybe I'll find some inspiration in River Song or Clara's outfits! krishnidoux on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619814 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 23:04:15 +0000 krishnidoux 1619814@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Wow! What a thorough, intelligent analysis. Very inspiring. Now I want to re-think my wardrobe the same way you did.  Ginger on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619797 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 22:45:08 +0000 Ginger 1619797@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ FWIW, 1930s hair was ruthlessly thinned.  Volume was OUT, unless you were indeed in Grapes of Wrath and a modish haircut was the least of your priorities. ;) Modcloth is actually a retailer; they stock a wide variety of garments from cool indie designers, European brands that are hard to get in the U.S., and retro/pinup clothing lines (some also European), as well as some main-stream brands (Steve Madden coats).  So the sizing really depends on the brand.  They also have a store brand, which is indicated on those listings (Archival Revival is one of them).  In my experience their store brand is TTS, without a ton of ease. I recommend: * Reading their recommended fit info. Modcloth is good about indicating if a particular garment runs small or large consistently. Pay attention to dress length - my single biggest issue with them is that dresses and skirts overall tend to be quite short. (The pinup ones, ironically, tend to  be the longest.) * Read the reviews, particularly the ones with sizes close to yours. Sometimes there's a clear consensus. * Chat with a Modstylist. <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/modstylists" rel="nofollow">http://www.modcloth.com/modstylists</a>  I haven't tried it myself, but sometimes reviews mention that it was very helpful in pinning down the right size to try. * Consider ordering more than one size. The default shipping method is not particularly fast, as is the prepaid return/exchange shipping. Sizes can sell out quickly, and it would be sad to be waiting on shipping while that happens. Returns aren't free, but the charge for the pre-paid label isn't exorbitant. I also checked my fave eShakti, but most of their retro designs are more 40s and 50s than 30s.  That can change daily, of course! Of the current offerings, this one stood out the most as a possibility. Pleated Tuxedo Bib Dress. Lengthen the skirt to below the knee, and it's very similar to 1937 styles. Both 3/4 sleeves and bracelet length sleeves work great. <a href="http://www.eshakti.com/shop/Dresses/Pleated-tuxedo-bib-chiffon-dress-CL0039461" rel="nofollow">http://www.eshakti.com/shop/Dr.....-CL0039461</a> Heh, the matron look.  :)  In the Sears catalogues, "matron" looks are usually a few years behind fashionable, dark, if printed with small designs, minimal color blocking, with conservative sleeve designs and small white collars. Small prim hats, hair usually up or not in fashionable curls or bobs.  The Ma Kettle (Quick Google search. Hee!) look is really framed by the long hair piled up on her head - instantly dating her.  She's also behind the times in "nice" clothes (hemlines the wrong length, usually too long), and her newer stuff is house dresses in cheap printed cottons. Puff sleeves are one of the most problematic features of late 1930s designs. Mostly because, the 80s/90s abused them in an attempted 40s pastiche. But also, even in the 1930s, puffed sleeves were a younger woman look. I'm in my 30s and I am very careful about how/when I wear them. Of other things... for you, I'd recommend avoiding things that are too pastel or cutesy in color, or have fussy features.  Some late 1930s/early 1940s designs look sleek in certain colors, and juvenile in others.  Novelty prints can also do that. The puppy dress is adorable, but it combines fussy features (ties and puff sleeves) + bright pastel + novelty print.  It might feel too off for me, now that I think about it. But of the others, I think they're all good ones for you. The outlines really are simple, and the colors are saturated and fun without being silly. The mustard is the brightest, but it's also the simplest design, and in a modern color.  Accessorizing is also a big part of the presentation. T-straps or peeptoes and traditional cardigans will really punch the vintage look. Red lipstick may do the same. If you don't want that, pair with very fashionable footwear and toppers. Hope that helps! Caro in Oz on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619792 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 22:36:32 +0000 Caro in Oz 1619792@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ What  a great read! What Angie wrote, I was going to include some of the same photos as Angie 8 - 10 look great for you imo :) Angie on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619763 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 21:48:35 +0000 Angie 1619763@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ YES. SO EXCITED ABOUT THE WAVY HAIR!  Anonymous on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619759 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 21:44:18 +0000 Anonymous 1619759@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Wow! What great suggestions. I love printed blouses with Blazers. I'm sure you'll look fab in whatever you choose to wear. Luckily, musicians and singers can get away with being creatively dressed Don't apologize to anyone. Beth Ann on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619752 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 21:31:24 +0000 Beth Ann 1619752@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks for all the inspiration pic, Angie!  I have several of these on Pinterest boards already!  I must confess to having had (and loved" floral pants in the past.  Midi skirts and jackets sound heavenly, particularly as we move into early Autumn.  Summer is tricky with 30's inspiration --- I can see the farm wives with dusty calico frocks, slightly faded and sweaty,  covered with an apron.  Wait, no, that's Grapes of Wrath!  I'm completely with you on the hair.  I tried to go that direction with my last cut, but ended up with a longer-in-front bob.  I'll see if I can get the hair geometry figured out so I can rock the side swept S wave.  I'm thinking a 1939 starlet cut, with some modern texturizing (my hair is insanely think) and some point cutting to give it a bit of modern flair. Ginger:  You are a fountain of information -- and I should have expected it from your wonderful posts!  I will explore your links in depth tonight.  How does ModCloth's sizing run?  Also, one of my challenges is approaching this period as a 52 year old, rather than a 30 year old.  Women of that time seemed to slip into the role of Matron pretty quickly.  Any wisdom on how to look grownup without capitulating to Ma Kettle? Ginger on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619591 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 15:16:13 +0000 Ginger 1619591@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I LOVE the late 1930s. 1938-1941 (halfway through) are about my very favorite fashion years, when hemlines shortened and the style wasn't so relentlessly IT. Interestingly, I was browsing Modcloth yesterday and found a number of dresses that really nail the c. 1937 day dress aesthetic. "Archival Revival," both rich blue and dark <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/archival-revival-dress-in-lake-blue" rel="nofollow">http://www.modcloth.com/shop/d.....-lake-blue</a> <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/archival-revival-dress-in-pine" rel="nofollow">http://www.modcloth.com/shop/d.....ss-in-pine</a> "Esteemed Achievement" is a simple dress but the styling and design are VERY 1930s. I know I've seen a sewing pattern that has similar design. Late 1930s liked high necks, either to show the material design, or to set off a statement necklace. <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/esteemed-achievement-dress" rel="nofollow">http://www.modcloth.com/shop/d.....ment-dress</a> "Author Outings" is 1930s in silhouette. The cap kimono sleeves are 1950s, but nothing else is. Mustard is very much a 30s/early 40s color, as well as being trendy now. <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/author-outings-dress-in-goldenrod" rel="nofollow">http://www.modcloth.com/shop/d.....-goldenrod</a> "Believe It or Dot" looks like it was made from a 1938 pattern! Really amazing. It's nearly out of stock now - give it a try if your size is there, and they may be able to re-order. <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/believe-it-or-dot-dress-in-songbirds" rel="nofollow">http://www.modcloth.com/shop/d.....-songbirds</a> "Happy Go Puppy" is similar, and only left in a tiny size. But maybe it will come back?? The lines are wonderful. <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/happy-go-puppy-dress" rel="nofollow">http://www.modcloth.com/shop/d.....uppy-dress</a> This one is slightly more 1960s in the sleeves and skirt length, but there's also something late 1930s about it. I think it's the high neck and asymmetric tie, with the gentle A-line skirt. And the colors. <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/dance-floor-date-dress-in-blue-dots" rel="nofollow">http://www.modcloth.com/shop/d.....-blue-dots</a> <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/dance-floor-date-dress-in-scarlet" rel="nofollow">http://www.modcloth.com/shop/d.....in-scarlet</a> Angie on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619588 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 15:06:18 +0000 Angie 1619588@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ WOW. What a GREAT read. An exciting new career direction. Welcome to Team Modern Retro. OF COURSE you will rock those silhouettes.  I find your style quite bold already, Beth Ann. Build on that. It suits you in every way (I've had the pleasure of meeting you so that's how I got to that conclusion). We will hear Flowing Structure both from your voice and style. Bold yet Serene. Energetic yet Calm. Creative yet Orderly.  Now. I want to see you in some flowing midi skirts with tailored stretchy blazers. Flowing floral trousers. Mary Janes. Fit and Flare Frocks. A few waves in the hair.  Beth Ann on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619582 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 14:49:06 +0000 Beth Ann 1619582@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Shannon:  It's a great season for patterned blouses, and I hope to refresh my sleeveless tops this Summer, too.  And balancing my desire for tailoring and structure with freedom to move will be a great challenge for the season! Windchime:  I know I love seeing women older than I with a great sense of personal style and a warm confidence -- it makes me hopeful for my future.  I guess I never consider that I might be able to be fill that role for someone else. Sara:  That's the idea, exactly.  It's complicated by the fact that Indiana Summers are humid, and I do more than glisten!  Still, I know that I can work it out! Sara L. on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619573 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 14:30:07 +0000 Sara L. 1619573@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Fascinating reading!  I don't have any advice but I look forward to hearing how you meet or exceed your 2016 goals. Adding that I frequently walk or use an exercise bike on the weekends and I don't feel like I need full-on gear for those activities.  Jeans with some give, taking off an outer layer, changing my shoes into something more walkable are all tricks I use so I can wear the same outfits for normal activities and exercise.  Windchime on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619569 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 14:17:06 +0000 Windchime 1619569@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Beth Ann--I'm excited about your career shift to music therapy and, from what I know of you on YLF, can imagine you being fab at it. Friendly Diva with Bad @$$ clinical skills, indeed! Of course you'll always be able to perform and to teach, as well. Your 2016 style plan is well thought out and smart. I wouldn't worry too much about dressing for the younger set--just be yourself and give them a role model. Transcona Shannon on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619558 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 13:53:58 +0000 Transcona Shannon 1619558@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm so impressed with the amount of thought that went into this analysis Beth Ann. I really like how you have included the way you intend to live in your clothes. Taking things like movement into consideration makes so much sense and yet, how many of us really think about that? I'm looking forward to seeing how this flushes out. And I'm totally copying you and Jeanne with the patterned tops and blazers! Beth Ann on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619544 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 12:23:54 +0000 Beth Ann 1619544@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Denise:  What gorgeous dresses!  I've pinned several for inspiration.  And you're right -- it would be marvelous to have one dress in my closet that rang all the right bells!  As for the music making --- it's only my singing that people would pay for, although I have moments on the guitar, and can accompany (simply) on piano.  One of the great things about music therapy is that you concentrate on engaging and playing with your clients, and learn to embrace the fun of music making....... oh, and I've not thought to check out Express for blazers! Anne:  I'll be posting more on concert wear in a few weeks -- one of the concerts will require some special thoughts. Rachy:  "work children" -- ha!  I've had a chance to observe therapists doing their stuff, and I will say I was impressed by their patience and professionalism.  There is a certain "laid back hippie" streak in the field, along with a "serious researcher" strain..  These archetypes can be vigilantly anti-Diva. I'll have to cultivate my own "Friendly Diva with Bad @$$ Clinical Skills" persona........and I'll totally take a giant phone and troll "Free Kesha" sites at lunch.  Oh, and colors and patterns?  No worries there.  My closet is as colorful as a Barbie Playhouse. Jeanne:  Good reminder that there are many ways to "live in the closet."  Hiding my own sense of style and personality is difficult anyway -- I'm far too curious and magpie like to hang back for long!  My task is to make sure I communicate that I appreciate those who are different from me, too.  As for "patterned tops with blazers" -- that's my favorite pairing, and you're a master at it! Jjsloane on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619529 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 11:12:02 +0000 Jjsloane 1619529@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Good for you! These sound like great goals. I can only add that you should never apologize (mentally or otherwise) for being yourself, and if that means being dressier than your contemporaries or audience wear it with pride and purpose. Don't try to beat them at their own game, start your own game and make them want to be on your team! I like patterned tops with solid blazers (ponte is stretchy and less wrinkle prone than wovens) that work with skirts, jeans and pants.  rachylou on "Style 2016" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/style-2016#post-1619513 Tue, 23 Feb 2016 07:53:34 +0000 rachylou 1619513@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have to think about this... what great goals... Have to think because there was nothing casual about the 30s ever, lol. As for young people... No. 1 tip is have a GIANT FREEKIN phone. Have apps on it for pity's sake. LOOK at your apps at lunch time. I'm not joking. Ahahaha! Oh and don't wear head to toe plain woven fabrics every day. And don't just wear blue jeans, get colours and/or patterns... Sigh, I have a lot of work children...