YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Thu, 16 Apr 2026 18:39:10 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights/page/2#post-1768422 Fri, 13 Jan 2017 10:31:39 +0000 Anonymous 1768422@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thank you, Ledonna N.  Taking the time to encourage us when we all know how busy you are means a lot to me.  And I would love any one that vacuumed curtains. My house needs a deep cleaning .... so perhaps this weekend.   Ledonna N. on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights/page/2#post-1768276 Thu, 12 Jan 2017 21:48:26 +0000 Ledonna N. 1768276@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hey sterling, congratulations on the first hurdle. Even if small things like not wanting to buy anything because of lack luster things in store is still an accomplishment. Emily K on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights/page/2#post-1768270 Thu, 12 Jan 2017 21:39:34 +0000 Emily K 1768270@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sterling--my exercise regimen is rather "proposed" at this point.  Fictional, really.  I do walk outdoors for about 5.5-7.5 miles daily.  Dog-walking, mainly, at a quick pace plus a mile-long round trip to the grocery, daily.   I've participated in many exercises in the past:  yoga, free-weights, running (5 miles daily), and Insanity.  I LOVED Insanity--it's a CD-based home exercise regimen of calisthenics in a high-intensity-interval-training style.  The sessions are about 45 minutes in length and you go all out, so you do what you can to start and you can ALWAYS do more by doing more reps in the time allowed, or by executing each move higher and better.  As long as you are giving it your all, you can continue to challenge yourself.  I've also been poking around the internet looking for a sun-salutation flow yoga routine that I can do daily.  I want to get back into both things and I am OK with working out at home VS group classes at a gym.  I've been a little lazy about the yoga and a little scared of the Insanity because...well...it can test you.  And I am no where near as fit as I was when I did it last.   You have inspired me, though.  TODAY, I will find a yoga routine so I can have it ready-to-go tomorrow morning. ETA:  I really SHOULDN'T be apprehensive about the Insanity because, if you are unfit, you still give your all, it's just less.  You do the utmost that you can. Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights/page/2#post-1768260 Thu, 12 Jan 2017 21:24:15 +0000 Anonymous 1768260@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi EMILY K.  I agree that putting down the computer has a major impact on how active we become in other areas of our life.  I become so much more engage in real life when I close the computer .... having said that, I secretly love the computer.  I feel it is my gateway to the entire world (only limited my imagination).   Emily -- best wishes on your exercise program.  I'd like to hear more about it.  Cardio?  Weights?  Combination?     Emily K on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights/page/2#post-1768206 Thu, 12 Jan 2017 19:07:46 +0000 Emily K 1768206@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sterling, I don't know how I missed this update.  I've found some sanity by ruthlessly unsubscribing from all the retail mailing lists.  FaceBook still gets me with the targeted ads, though.  But I will try to limit my time on the computer--it brings nothing but bad influences my way:  recipes and tasty food pictures, fashion advertising, tempting purchases....AArrrgggghhhh.  And, really, I should be working out instead of plinking away at he computer, anyway--putting down the computer is a huge boost to my weight-loss and exercise regimen.  It's amazing, really.  Other than the one shoe purchase (from back-order) I'm still hanging in there! Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights/page/2#post-1768202 Thu, 12 Jan 2017 18:59:23 +0000 Anonymous 1768202@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi Maneera -- Yay for you.  It sounds like you are doing life well.  Congratulations.   Maneera on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights/page/2#post-1768107 Thu, 12 Jan 2017 13:48:50 +0000 Maneera 1768107@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Bravo! Like AM, my focus is on other things. I do browse online shopping sites out of sheer boredom, but can't think of a SINGLE thing I need! I'm focusing on: 1) Exercise. I dress for it everyday! But then I'm a disciplined soul. If I'm wearing something that I can't exercise in, I WILL change. 2) Cooking. I plan meals for the week and really enjoy my 'cooking time'. It's been great. 3) Reading. I love to spend a couple of hours lounging in the sun on cold afternoons, reading a book. I'm doing pretty well! 4) Netflix. New shows, new movies, and my evenings are sorted. :P I'll now WAIT for summer. To review what I have and might wanna add, since everything is packed away right now. It's been COLD here this week (well, by our standards, anyways). Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights/page/2#post-1768100 Thu, 12 Jan 2017 12:28:02 +0000 Anonymous 1768100@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Carter has always been a shiny beacon of hope/information to me (a former Northerner transplanted to the South).  Her most recent post once again illuminated just why I don't need to be shopping for anything winter-related.  <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/a-southern-winter-capsule">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....er-capsule</a> I think because of this I have a slightly unfair advantage in this challenge.  I am not the least bit tempted to shop in January because there is nothing (literally nothing) I need or can use.  Coats, blazers, sweaters are all out.  I shop them because I love looking at them.  But with the help of Carter and others (Suz) I have finally come to understand I'll never really wear them.  I want to wear them.  I just don't actually do so.   One last note.  I meet with a financial advisor yesterday.  He offhandedly said I didn't seem like an extravagant spender.  I was actually insulted.  I felt I was dressed really well yesterday.  No jewelry, but still I felt I looked good.   Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights/page/2#post-1767696 Wed, 11 Jan 2017 10:30:22 +0000 Anonymous 1767696@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi Sheila -- I am so glad you are joining us.  I so look forward to getting to know Forum members better.  Challenges are the best way for me to get to know them because we communicate so much.  I have special love for all things WHITE.  I use oxyclean religiously and have had much luck keeping my whites pristine.  I'll reach out to you in the future if I encounter a stain that I can't handle.  Did you see Kiwigal's question regarding sunscreen on her white top?   <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-yellow-sunscreen-stains-on-white-top">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....-white-top</a> I went into deep shock when someone said that oxyclean might set the stain even deeper.  OMG!   And I did want to comment on makeup.  I have this thing.  Whenever I am the least bit depressed, I go buy a red lipstick.  I don't know why, but I do.  I have a nice collection of red lipsticks that I rarely wear.  I once set a challenge for me to wear lipstick every single day.  It didn't last two days before I forget about it.   Cynthia -- I think archery is beyond cool. I used to do it decades ago, but then there was a move and new job, and I forget about it.  What kind of bow do you have?   Where do you practice?   cindysmith on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767315 Tue, 10 Jan 2017 13:50:06 +0000 cindysmith 1767315@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I forgot we weren't officially starting til February :-) And yes, I'm hoping to get in better shape. I'm not in terrible shape right now, but I have gotten a little soft since I had to quit being a stagehand because my COPD just didn't allow me to perform at 100%. I'm wanting to take up archery and yoga. (I know, who teaches deep into their psyche and pulls out those 2? But yoga would strengthen my core, and I got a bow and arrow set a year ago, and started learning; but the move sidetracked me. Now we're settled enough that I'm ready to pick it up again) Sheila on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767309 Tue, 10 Jan 2017 13:23:20 +0000 Sheila 1767309@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sterling... I have been reading with great interest and I would like to join you as well. I have to admit that I have a certain small budget for the year but that is for particular items... I will NOT buy randomly- however see below.... I have reviewing my current items and looking at revising hems and have had luck removing some stains - with Glade Air Freshener no less ! I have revived my white puffer to two white sweaters in Oxiclean and have taken to shoe dye on my tall boots and polish/ shine up my shoes. I wore my puffer today and I feel good.   I realize I have bought the same things over and over- I have five pairs of beige pumps.  I think if I saw them on a website- I would probably buy them again ! Gah ! I must say that I am feeling cold lately. I am dressing in layers but in the back of my mind- there is a lovely sweater dress- with long sleeves- and warm. This "tinge of longing" for a sweater dress is usually short lived. And if I avoid the stores- which I dislike anyway.... and the websites... I will be good. This is an item that is difficult to find anyway... it probably does not exist. The material is usually too thin, or too tight ( bodycon) or too short ( need tights )- so I have that to be thankful for. I must confess to one purchase of a straight long colorless blazer/coat - at a thrift shop ( there with my husband looking for luggage. It was $ 13 and lined and included a matching top. It will be great for wearing over a shift dress - to winterize it. I like it- I can also wear the top with either a skirt or pants.  It was NOT a wardrobe hole- and I should not have purchased it- even with the price and name- so this is a tick against me. My biggest fast will be my lipstick/ makeup addiction. It is actually embarrassing. I have dug into some old bags and started using a couple of items - and tossed out quite a bit. Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767293 Tue, 10 Jan 2017 11:53:46 +0000 Anonymous 1767293@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ AM -- I want to join YOUR challenge.  You'll get so much done this year!!!!   The idea of developing different habits is brilliant.  Thank you Texstyle.  I am going to make a list today.  I will draw heavily from AM's list.   Joy -- I'll watch for your Steamboat Springs post.  It should be fun to imagine the wardrobe you will need in real life.   Carter -- I am glad you found a way to track your wears.  I find the information invaluable.  I do it differently than you.  I use a spreadsheet. I want to know exactly how many items in each category.  I also want to know my cost per wear.  This information really does help me plan future wardrobe purchases.   YOU HAVE NOT FAILED AT ANYTHING, Cynthia.  Challenges are not about failure, they are about improvement.  That sports bra might mean you exercise more.  Exercise might improve your overall health.   Improving your overall health might mean fewer or lesser medical bills in the future.  THINK of the money you just saved by buying the bra!!  Yay for you.   RunCarla -- You are of course correct.  The Shopping Fast was originally scheduled to start in February.  I selected that month because I wanted to take advantage of the sales.  As we all know that was ridiculous because my personal challenge is to not shop sales.  An ink blue belt sounds lovely.   I hope the boots work out for you, J Aileen.  I love a sturdy boot is essential.  I have friends that "bird."  They ADORE it.  The thing is they want to tell me about the birds they saw and I have no idea what to say. But they must feel the way about birds that I feel about plants.   Waves at LynD, Barbara Diane, and LisaP.   I will be getting up and dressed with intent from now on..   carter on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767200 Tue, 10 Jan 2017 03:12:06 +0000 carter 1767200@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Aside from a purchase flirtation yesterday, I'm humming along. The item in question was right up my alley...so much so in fact, that when I shopped my closet first I counted 10 items that fit the very same general description! They are a staple for me, but that's a lot;-). I've been basically SYCF since early December after I bought myself a couple pieces of jewelry for my birthday. I did use a Christmas gift card Christmas night to replace a 10 year old favorite pair of pants. I'm very pleased with them and have worn them twice already. I've been enjoying several other things the past few weeks. I started tracking the clothes I'm wearing on December 5. I've tried to do this a couple times before, but the format didn't seem to suit me. This time I'm doing it on my tablet instead of in a physical notebook or calendar. So far, I'm remembering to do it every day. From 12/5-1/4 I wore 26 tops and 14 bottoms. Not sure what, if anything, that means, but it was fewer items than I expected. I also dressed 36 times in 31 days. That was also less than I expected. For some reason, I feel like I'm always changing for something midday or evening. I guess not;-). I'm also digging deeper in the purge, house-wide. The beach house feels so much lighter than the Atlanta house. I do not want to weigh it down when we finally move. Time-consuming, but liberating. Finally, like Tex, I'm back into meal planning. I've been winging it a bit too much the past few weeks, which leaves us stuck in a rut of whatever's top-of-mind.  Glad to hear everyone's enjoying the fast and doing so well! Carla on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767195 Tue, 10 Jan 2017 03:00:44 +0000 Carla 1767195@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ CWS - the 'shopping fast' doesn't officially start until February! Like AM, I'm enjoying the analysis, playing in my closet, making capsules, caring for my clothes and shoes. This weekend I cleaned out the pockets of my outerwear and brushed them down, sorted scarves and hats, cleaned leather gloves and bags (with baby wipes). cindysmith on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767191 Tue, 10 Jan 2017 02:46:41 +0000 cindysmith 1767191@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I bought a sports bra today because I am desperately low on bras in general and I want to get more active this year and this one was on sale. I feel I have totally failed at a shopping fast already and it's only 9 days into it. AM on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767187 Tue, 10 Jan 2017 02:41:40 +0000 AM 1767187@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I've joined the fast. You have me inspired. And I've been doing everything but shopping. Editing, reorganizing, goal setting, working on my stylebook and look book, studying my habits, uniforms/statement peices, making a plan for 2017, etc. And I'm also looking at every area of my life to edit/reorg. The jewelry box, the vanity, the medicine cabinet, every other closet. Thanks for your update. I think a little looking around keeps the juices going if you can resist the purchasing! And like others, I'm unsubscribing to emails. Looking forward to tracking your progress. Barbara Diane on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767122 Tue, 10 Jan 2017 00:21:47 +0000 Barbara Diane 1767122@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Even if I'm online, I feel better if I'm showered and dressed. Loungewear works also, as long as I've showered and I'm planning on a cozy day.  Carla on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767100 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 23:28:53 +0000 Carla 1767100@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm not officially 'fasting' until February, because I need a navy or ink blue leather belt. I like tesxstyles idea of an uptake in self care, however I probably need a 'shop your cupboards' for beauty potions too! texstyle on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767081 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 22:57:42 +0000 texstyle 1767081@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have a few things that can help divert a shopping "habit" that I use myself. 1. Working on personal style type things - like focusing on your fingernails and toenails one day, and maybe doing a deep hair conditioning another day, or play with hairstyles, accessories, etc. 2. Focusing on your health such as planning a weeks worth of healthy meals and shopping for food and doing some prep work. 3. Read some new workout ideas online and try out a few - places like "Self" or other sites usually have some inspiration. JAileen on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767075 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 22:31:11 +0000 JAileen 1767075@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sterling, I may have spent my Christmas money today. I ordered a few pairs of insulated waterproof boots from REI. Not snow boots, but warm hiking boots, for winter birding. I hope one of them works out. I was given a check and finally deposited it today. Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767062 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 21:44:40 +0000 Anonymous 1767062@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I do agree with you about the dressing for the day part. I now have myself in the practice of getting dressed before I even leave my bedroom when I wake up.  No going downstairs in my pyjamas for coffee and breakfast anymore. That used to morph into me sitting at my computer for 3 hours reading the news and other blogs and sites and pretending to work.  Nothing grosser than trying to be a business professional in your pyjamas and crazy hair.  :)  So I put my gym clothes on right away , or my work clothes. Works like a charm for me . Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767057 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 21:24:00 +0000 Anonymous 1767057@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I will start a thread for Steamboat Springs ideas. You are right. I ' m in no way prepared for snowy sports and cabin dwelling in very cold conditions. Lyn D. on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767050 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 21:07:18 +0000 Lyn D. 1767050@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ A great start, and so true about dressing for the days activities. Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767045 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 20:46:13 +0000 Anonymous 1767045@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Joy -- You SHOULD shop for Springboat Springs.  You are new to Colorado.  I suspect that your wardrobe has legitimate holes that need to be filled to accommodate your new life.  I wholeheartedly support you buying things for your new life.  Yay for you.  Have fun.   Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767042 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 20:43:56 +0000 Anonymous 1767042@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks for the support, Kiwigal and LisaP!!!!  One week down is not that much to brag about, but I do feel proud of myself.  I am trying to stay busy in the House with mini-projects.  My normal life should resume on Wednesday (at least that is the way I am scheduling it).   Congratulations, Bonnie.  Breaking the cycle feels really good, doesn't it?  If I get nothing else out of this, I want a break from the buying and then having to return it.  Delurked, I feel exactly the same way.  I once thought to myself if I had to buy solely from a store, I would never buy a thing because I don't like all that much when I try it on.   Smittie, Shedev, and Delurked -- I chanced upon my revelation regarding dressing for the day's activities.  I'm going to experiment and see if it proves right most of the time.  I have the feeling it will.  My wardrobe choices seem to inform my actions throughout the day.   JAileen -- You'll find something.  I assume those gift cards don't expire?   El Cee -- what a great idea.  I must have missed Rambling Ann's posts.  I absolutely love the portrait you selected for your challenge.  I have a technical background and art was always an emotional luxury that I didn't have time for when I was younger.  Now I have a deep, deep appreciation for art I never knew I had.  I started visiting museums, but the art that touches me most profoundly I discovered from friends pointing it out to me.   Thank you for the support, Alasse, Meredith, Suz, and Joyce.  I would never succeed at anything in life if I did not have friends having my back.  Best wishes for the New Year.   Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767037 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 20:33:35 +0000 Anonymous 1767037@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Your thoughts resonated with me. I also dress with the day's activities in mind and will not leave the house if wearing gardening clothes, even to run an errand. The January fast may be harder than I thought. To avoid buying, I need to stay away from shops. The whole family is going to Steamboat Springs later this month. I have no proper gear. Sal on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1767025 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 20:11:50 +0000 Sal 1767025@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Good insights Sterling. I agree with Lisa - don't even browse online shopping. I am deleting the emails from retailers right now and have unsubscribed from several sites as well.   And I think a lazy weekend in mid winter is often a great idea!! I am not planning much shopping for January and February - but I am on a holiday next week which will involve a small amount of browsing at shops. It is a rare opportunity for me so I am not going to put myself on a strict fast, but I don't have a large budget either.   Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1766980 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 18:30:27 +0000 Anonymous 1766980@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Here is your monitor reporting for duty. STAY OFF OF THE INTERNET. (retail sites)  ;) Bonnie on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1766966 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 18:01:33 +0000 Bonnie 1766966@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ This is week 2 of my purchasing fast. I'm actually enjoying not having to look for items to fill wardrobe holes, check for bargains, or deciding how I can make my wardrobe work better. Yesterday I read a whole book, Snow Child, and enjoyed it immensely. Future projects include shopping my closet to style a dress and jacket I bought from Dec. sales. I decided to make this a two month fast because of overspending in Nov/Dec. I have looked online and agree that the sales are not that great - I find shopping the Dec. sales much more productive.  As for staying in pjs, I did this for two days after an exhausting two week Dec. trip. It really helped me, both mentally and physically. Enjoy! Anonymous on "Week 1 of Purchasing Fast -- Some Insights" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/week-1-of-purchasing-fast----some-insights#post-1766922 Mon, 09 Jan 2017 15:23:44 +0000 Anonymous 1766922@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm going to try putting on my gym clothes and see if that gets me into the gym more :-) I never thought to try this before!