https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 25 Apr 2026 20:23:45 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785744 Thu, 09 Mar 2017 20:47:25 +0000 JAileen 1785744@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I remember when you got the vest and I was intrigued, to say the least. I also wondered how it would work with coats (I mentioned this on one of Suz' threads). I agree with others to give it time. I'm sure you figure out ways to work it into your life. In lieu of the long vest, I've embraced the poncho. Of course I haven't worn one since Fall due to cold and wet weather. But that doesn't mean I'm ready to donate them. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785613 Thu, 09 Mar 2017 15:00:22 +0000 viva 1785613@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks <b>Suz</b>. (And thanks also <b>kkards</b> and <b>Janet</b> for your vest thoughts.) I am not giving up on the vest!!! We're having a friend in for dinner tonight and I intend to wear it. Come hell or high water. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785607 Thu, 09 Mar 2017 14:46:16 +0000 Suz 1785607@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Vivian</b>, you always look sensational and I think you've always had a good sense of what works for you. Your style is a real inspiration for me with its reliance on classics with verve, and its retro feminine elements. I, too, rely a lot on J. Crew. I used to feel as if this was boring but more and more I think, well, so what? It works for me. :)&nbsp;</p> <p>Re the dresses, I have a theory, and that is that you were wearing them more when you were travelling for work. A dress is brilliant for a presentation day or a day when you will be on your feet a fair bit (if you have the right footwear). You're put together in a snap. But a dress is not so great when you are sitting at your desk (or, in my case, on my <b>couch</b>!!) working from home. Especially if you have a cat. I love love love dresses but wear them almost never in the winter, for these reasons. I do wear my knit tube skirts in summer because those are scrunch-upable, if you know what I'm saying, and I can casualize them enough for my lifestyle. Plus, no hose, so no worries about kitty.&nbsp;</p> <p>Anyway -- if you may be returning to more travel, hang on to those dresses. The main point I want to make is that even subtle shifts in lifestyle mean we have to shift our wardrobe priorities a bit. I have discovered this multiple times even during the time I've been on YLF, as my working life has shifted in only minor ways yet I've needed to rejig various elements of the closet to accommodate.&nbsp;</p> <p>Re the vest, can we hold hands and comfort each other? I have only worn my gilet twice!! I sort of knew this would happen to me but leapt anyway, out of true love. I am pretty sure I will wear it later. These items have long wardrobe longevity.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785604 Thu, 09 Mar 2017 14:39:55 +0000 viva 1785604@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Vix: </b>I think my embracing of bright pink/orange/red is like your affair with rosy tones. Maybe it's delusional, but I must push ahead thinking better days are before us. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785602 Thu, 09 Mar 2017 14:38:10 +0000 viva 1785602@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>abc: </b>Thanks for the note about the fit of my clothing. I am quite picky about that. I can't stand when things don't feel right, so I think it's really that if it doesn't fit well, I simply don't wear it. I'd rather re-wear the same 5 things that really fit. </p> <p>As for evaluating life issues and tackling them, there are a few things going on. First, I tend to think a lot about how I'm doing - in life, at work, in relationships, and it's usually very easy for me to identify "opportunities," shall we say. Second, once I emerged from post-election gloom, I knew I really wanted to find constructive ways to improve my outlook, and I'm a doer, so I looked at those opportunities I had made mental note of and started making SMALL commitments to myself and -- importantly -- to others. This helped: I have a small group of friends on Facebook -- a few college friends and my closest friends locally. We check in at the beginning of each month and try to set an intention for the month, and also report on how we did with the prior month's intention. We started this a few year's ago in lieu of New Year's Resolutions, and it's been really wonderful. There is no judgement, no castigation - just support and advice. It's a place to be accountable to yourself but in a small group that cheers you on. That's been great for giving up streaming video for a month, for example, or sugar. I also made a commitment to my sister not only to help her sell her craftwork at a Christmas fair next season, but also to produce something myself for our booth, which I am already working on (another small commitment, and a creativity boost). All these small accomplishments have helped increase my optimism and my confidence and unlocked some new ideas. I think the key is looking with unwaveringly open eyes at each part of your life, and then making clear, manageable, short-term commitments to move forward. Hope this helps. :)</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785462 Thu, 09 Mar 2017 04:33:00 +0000 Anonymous 1785462@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Your outfits always have a little something special, and have always inspired me.</p> <p>I like the idea of adding masculine elements as your "edge". </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785442 Thu, 09 Mar 2017 03:54:42 +0000 Jaime 1785442@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I do relate to the feeling of gloom that coincided with the winter this year. Your style also has a current flair so I agree the classic needs the trendy modifier. I just looked at the outfit you just posted and although classic in its components it was something more as well. Aware of the moment at the very least. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785384 Thu, 09 Mar 2017 01:19:33 +0000 Angie 1785384@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Welcome to Team Tomato Orange &amp; Pink.&nbsp;</p> <p>*happy dance*</p> <p>You are not a Modern Classic. More Trendy than that. And repeating what I said in your other thread:&nbsp;</p> <p><i>(Trendy is a GREAT word, Viv. Remember that there is no Style without Fashion - Fashion is an important subset of Style. And Fashion is trends).</i> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785371 Thu, 09 Mar 2017 00:55:33 +0000 Vix 1785371@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi Viva --</p> <p>I can identify with pretty much all you wrote. So much so that this will be very short because...eh. ;)</p> <p>Love the "modern retro" label Kiwigal tagged you with. As one who skews awfully classic myself, I really notice how consistently fresh you look.</p> <p>So I vote that you just keep refining what you've been doing!&nbsp;</p> <p>Me, I'm making a big effort to start caring about a few SP/SU updates since I've nearly worn out some of my transitional items. I've added a few blush/rose items -- probably a reaction to the extra-somber clothing I've been sporting since late fall, and perhaps my subconscious desire for "rosier" times ahead? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785317 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 21:59:47 +0000 Sal 1785317@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Another great read and lovely to "see" you.</p> <p>I admire your style and think you are consistently a great dresser. &nbsp;I wonder if the vest will come into it's own in Spring and Autumn in your climate? &nbsp;</p> <p>I see your style as modern retro - mainly modern, but with a hint to 60s and 70s style. &nbsp;</p> <p>I think we do not need to be concerned about doing a lot of our purchasing from one label - sometimes time pressures, fit issues, availability etc contribute to that. &nbsp;We all put an individual stamp on clothing anyway. &nbsp;</p> <p>I have also been in a bit of a "funk" throughout our summer - work pressures, the state of the world, evolving family situations etc have contributed and meant that I have been reactive rather than proactive towards my life. &nbsp;Two weeks ago I did address that and am feeling much better now with some decisions about work, finances, politics and exercise. &nbsp;My problems have not gone away but I feel as though I am addressing them rather than hiding from them. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785288 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 19:35:03 +0000 rachylou 1785288@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>On 'trendy': Sometimes trendy means 'in the know.' Sometimes it means - as I think Angie uses it, as a fashion profession term - a direction over quite a long period of time. Sometimes it just means orange and lime green. Sometimes it means 'fad.' Sometimes it means mere frivolous novelty. I think of myself as trendy. But while I submitted to the Rubik's cube, puffball keychains are a no... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785265 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 17:59:33 +0000 kkards 1785265@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>wow....well thought out and quite detailed. </p> <p>love Angie's Trendy Classis moniker...I think it suits you to a T. I think going forward the trick will be, finding and keeping the balance between the trendy and the classic.....</p> <p>re last falls possible mistake the fringe vest...I have found that sometimes when something is a little more of a style stretch, than it takes me a little longer to love it...I'd give it another year, I bet that next year you'll find yourself reaching for it a lot. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785240 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 17:01:57 +0000 abc 1785240@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Love your analysis post, too. &nbsp;I just read and commented on Lisa's. &nbsp;FWIW I think you're way farther than me on your style journey. &nbsp;It's great that you've identified and accepted your love of modern classics. &nbsp;But it's funny, when I think of your style, I don't really think modern classic. &nbsp;I think modern period, or if you must, modern classic with a twist or edge. &nbsp;I think you do an impeccable job of evaluating fit of items, I've noticed it seems your pieces always fit you properly, going a long way to projecting that tailored look of modern classic.</p> <p>I need to do what you did about getting life back in your life. &nbsp;Evaluating all of the factors (exercise, health, habits, etc) and making reachable plans to change those you're not happy with. &nbsp;Any more advice on that front? &nbsp;How'd you go about that part?</p> <p>Anyway, excellent summary. &nbsp;Following along your journey is gonna be fun, too. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785233 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 16:52:18 +0000 Penny 1785233@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Chiming in to support your dresses - I wear them every day, and they can definitely be workhorses, especially those in versatile styles, colors, and silhouettes. &nbsp;But I think you're right to start by wearing what you have and going from there! &nbsp;That's terrific that you've pinpointed your love of modern classics, which should further your goal of purchasing carefully. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785226 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 16:21:25 +0000 viva 1785226@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Janet:</b> I think you've hit on something when you talk about the relationship between wardrobe churn and comfort with one's style. Accepting that I am at heart more of a classicist may keep me from purchases that are <i>too</i> trendy. The vest is a perfect example. I really admire it -- but it may push the classic print just too far into trendiness than I personally can naturally wear easily.</p> <p><b>LeDonna: </b>You raise such an interesting question and a really important one for me to consider. If I were to count items, I am pretty sure my wardrobe has grown some over the last 8 months. Once I go through my closet and get rid of old, over-worn, and un-worn things, I think it will get back to the right size. Then, I might try the one-in / one-out if I find I have trouble being mindful about purchasing. (I'd probably go right to this approach if I really wanted a tiny/minimal wardrobe, but I'm not so adamant about it. Still, I'll keep that tactic in case I get out of control.)</p> <p><b>Angie:</b> Thanks for the encouragement! I like <b>trendy classic</b>, although I bristle a little at "trendy," weirdly. I do like some trends for sure, and like to try new things, but that word makes me feel a little flighty or unsubstantial. Talk about reading a lot into words!!! So silly. But <b>modern classic</b> doesn't necessarily capture my style, I don't think, because I don't feel quite tethered to the past. I'll hold on to <b>TC</b> for a while and see how it feels. And I definitely have one big thing to thank you for: bright pinky-orangey-lipstick red! I have a couple of things in this color now (thanks JCrew) and I think they are really going to help move me from winter into spring. Embracing this color has much to do with YLF and you.</p> <p><b>Lisap: </b>Thank you, my friend, for your sweet words and your encouragement of my style and evolution. I hope that at least a couple of my dresses are "the right dresses." &nbsp;I wonder if seeing you in so many great ones is part of the reason I have collected so many lately!!!&nbsp;</p> <p>Thanks all. So nice to be posting again on YLF.<b></b> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785206 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 15:32:56 +0000 Anonymous 1785206@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like every word you've written. &nbsp;As Janet said, finally recognizing your personal style as a successful, identifiable and modern one is a big achievement. I've thinking about how often we are made to feel like we need to change or be something else, or wear something else , or strive to have a "better" style. What is that anyways? &nbsp;I love your style - it was one of the first things I noticed when I joined YLF 2 1/2 years ago. &nbsp;</p> <p>Interesting point about dresses. &nbsp;I go through periods of having many and wearing them all the time too. The right dress is a godsend, and makes looking pulled together a snap. &nbsp;I say keep going down that path if you are wearing them all! &nbsp;Getting dressed every day does wonders, I agree . I'm guilt too of sitting around in sweats when I don't have to leave the house and it's blowing and cold out (ahem - like right now) . &nbsp;But feeling polished and on point is the world's best booster. &nbsp;What I've taken away from your post is that I want to update my olive green pieces (bombers, jackets, pants, etc) with cognac leather bags and footwear &nbsp;</p> <p>I think I'm blathering here and may not have said anything worth typing, but nice to see you here again my friend ! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785205 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 15:31:28 +0000 Angie 1785205@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>*HAPPY DANCE*</p> <p>Excellent plan and thought process. SOOOOO good to get it all down once things have settled. (I get it, and was in the same boat).&nbsp;</p> <p>Sounds like you've also come full circle with your style, Viv - but with a good dose of evolution. A GREAT feeling. You now have a fab plan that you can be held accountable to. And we can too!</p> <p>Moniker: Trendy Classic. (You are the epitome of a Trendy Classic to me. A fun oxymoron too).&nbsp;</p> <p>And isn't J.Crew looking FABULOUS this season.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785199 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 15:25:46 +0000 Ledonna N. 1785199@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This was a really great read and well thought out. If I read correctly youhave a handle on the size of wadrobe you have an want. Are you going to do a 1 in 1 out as you find new items to add?</p> <p>I look forward to your style evolution. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785185 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 14:47:30 +0000 Janet 1785185@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>These are very astute and well-articulated thoughts, and I'm so glad you shared. </p> <p>I've also been subdued in a lot of ways since November, and I'm finding a new interest in home renovation projects (a little bit of nesting instinct, perhaps?). So I hear you about directing energy into things other than dressing myself! </p> <p>At the same time, I'm feeling more secure in my own style, much as you describe, so I feel less inclined to chase trends, and I'm tired of closet churn. Like you, I'm taking note of what purchases have turned out to be workhorses and what I could have done without. </p> <p>I'm a little bummed that the plaid vest wasn't a huge success for you because it looks amazing on you, but I understand -- it's just not the easiest piece to work with. You are wise to identify the weaknesses of your shopping habits! I'm working on it too. </p> <p>I don't know what descriptor/moniker works for you, but coming up with those as never been my strong suit. What I do know is that your style is one of the ones I admire most on the forum. You manage to make what you wear look chic but easy, simple but interesting. </p> <p>I'm borrowing some of your goals as my own! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/thoughts-on-life-style-spring-long-sorry#post-1785180 Wed, 08 Mar 2017 14:17:49 +0000 viva 1785180@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi all,</p> <p>Lisa's post yesterday got me thinking about my wardrobe and my style and my thoughts about dressing. And my thoughts about dressing are inextricably linked to my thoughts about life in general.</p> <p>Since just before the US election, I've done much less work travel: fewer projects overall and more web-based research projects, which has meant more working from home. That and the general political climate has pulled me away from fashion and, frankly, been a general downer. Also, I stopped doing barre and became more active in yoga, which addressed stress issues but also brought my energy level down. It's interesting to think about how this all intersects. What this meant for fashion is, really, that I haven't cared much about it for the last 5-6 months. I've made many fewer purchases and haven't been as excited about dressing. Also, my body isn't as tight and firm as it used to be (although most items still fit.)</p> <p><b>I need to make several changes because I want more spring back -- in my step, and in my life. </b>I have restarted at barre for the challenge (and will continue at yoga for the de-stressor). I'm tackling a bad habit a month (all related to work-at-home: streaming video, sugar, etc.) and trying to encourage the good ones (creativity, running). And I also want to address my style. But baby steps.</p> <p>When I think about my "smartest" purchases from the fall/winter, these come to mind, because I have worn them frequently and happily:&nbsp;<br />- Paul Green cigar-colored suede booties<br />- Zara green bomber<br />- Emerson Fry charcoal wool long peacoat<br />- JCrew cashmere long sleeve tees (charcoal, wine)<br />- JCrew caramel crossbody bag</p> <p>My "mistake" purchase, I think, was the long plaid fringed vest from NAS, which I wore once. Or - perhaps it was not a mistake, but victim to the emotional turmoil of the season. I'm not sure.</p> <p><b>What's interesting to me is my reliance on modern classics.</b> When I joined YLF I lamented my dependence on JCrew, but the fact is, I love classic American sportswear, and I have come to accept that. YLF has encouraged me to indulge my love of other eras, so my wardrobe now reflects items reminiscent of the 60s and 70s as well as current fashions, but the shapes are classic. When you look at the pieces that I have relied on this winter, you can see what I mean. I've always wanted to be a little different, a little edgy or something, but the fact is I'm not. People comment on my style, but that's only because I live in an area where a lot of women live in fleece, gear, and Loft. I may seem "fashiony" to my friends but I'm pretty classic in my tastes. I think I just spend more than they do, and I tend to put unique outfits together more than they do (that is, not just what's on a mannequin in the store). Anyway ....</p> <p>An interesting development this past year - and quite opposite of many YLFers, I think - is that I have discovered dresses. I may have had one or two in my closet a year or two ago. Now I have at least 10, again reflecting classic silhouettes from American sportswear of several eras. But, am I wearing them, or just collecting them?</p> <p>When I look ahead, I think I need to do the following:</p> <p><b>Scour my closet. </b>Identify the wild cards (like the vest) that are worth keeping and make an effort to wear them. Pass on the rest.<br /><b>Stop buying dresses.</b> Wear what I have, or pass them on. (Do I keep the DVF wrap dress that I haven't worn in 2 years? Or pass it on?)<br /><b>Edit footwear. </b>I needed more shoes, and I have purchased them in the past two years! But I am tough on shoes. I need to see which ones need to go, and pass them on / toss them.&nbsp;<br /><b>Continue to purchase carefully.</b> I have a good-sized wardrobe now, and I like its size. It's not minimal but it's not overwhelming. I need to manage it so it doesn't get out of control, and weed out the not-worn.<br /><b>Focus on outfits that feel most like me. </b>Get dressed each day, really dressed, and dress like me.&nbsp;</p> <p>This will likely mean: <b>American sportswear classics, black/white/ink/bright red, shirt dresses, florals/feminine/heels to dress up, jeans/blazers/loafers for masculine edge, structured handbags. I'd like to use jewelry as a place to infuse some creativity, because it is the one place I am really drawn to one-of-a-kind.</b><br />&nbsp;<br />I'm not sure what this means for my descriptors/moniker, but it does feel like it needs to evolve a bit. Any thoughts?</p> <p>Thanks for letting me process publicly. Any reactions, thoughts, etc. are welcome, as always. </p>