YouLookFab Forum » Topic: What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 04 Apr 2026 11:34:21 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression/page/2#post-1190480 Mon, 10 Mar 2014 15:11:10 +0000 gryffin 1190480@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Aziraphale - that sounds like a great choice in outfit. Nice jeans would work even nice dressy with a great blazer and elegant shoe.  I'm with you, I am less likely to wear a skirt or dress when I am unsure of the exact dress code.  Just more comfortable too in pants!  Love a great blazer - no matter what you do or where you go, just ups the style and since I run cold, good way to stay snug!! Aziraphale on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression/page/2#post-1190402 Mon, 10 Mar 2014 13:52:47 +0000 Aziraphale 1190402@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Gryffin, I agree with you about the blazer. I always wear mine with jeans because I don't own office wear, but they make me feel just that little bit more polished. In a situation like you're describing, I'd suppose I'd wear "good" jeans, a blazer, a simple top that fit well, and good, but not flashy, shoes -- either elegant pumps or ankle boots. Two definite things: I would not wear a skirt, because I feel way more "myself" in pants, and I'd wear a heel -- not sky-high, but high enough to make me feel polished. gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression/page/2#post-1190326 Mon, 10 Mar 2014 12:30:40 +0000 gryffin 1190326@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ingunn - that is always very wise advise.  When in doubt keep it simple, elegant, comfortable, unfussy.  I do think that the worst thing is being under stress and physically uncomfortable.  That would be a truly bad combination.  Your outfit sounds great and that type of outfit would work with modifications for almost anything. Great choice and I'm glad you felt great in it!! MRL -  I hear you on this.  They used to call me shrimp and dainty in elementary school.  Of course, they'd probably still call me that, but I'm okay with that!!  Glad you are happy at your height and here's to the power of high heels!!  MRL on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression/page/2#post-1190313 Mon, 10 Mar 2014 12:04:36 +0000 MRL 1190313@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think I like being tall as I was always the smallest one in  elementary/high school and adults always thought I was younger (perish  the thought!). I grew 7 inches in high school and loved it! Ingunn on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression/page/2#post-1190288 Mon, 10 Mar 2014 11:24:16 +0000 Ingunn 1190288@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ This weekend I went to a casual party where quite a few old friends that I not see often enough would be, and also a lot of strangers to me from my friend's workplace. I was really at a loss of what to wear and feared being overdressed. Finally I decided on a very basic outfit with a white tee, dark wash fitted jeans, black pumps and belt, navy blazer and a statement necklace. I felt great, un-fuzzy and very comfortable the whole evening. The lesson I take away from this is that comfort is key - nothing that needs constant adjustments, or that feels too much in any way for occasions like this. gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression/page/2#post-1190279 Mon, 10 Mar 2014 10:42:56 +0000 gryffin 1190279@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Neel  - what we lack in height, I have a feeling we make up for in attitude!!  Att true, Neel - you have super style so let that go right to your stylish head!! VernieJane - I am a huge boot girl too.  Don't know exactly why, but I have to agree, boots have power!!  They look super comfy on those soles and a very pretty and elegant upper.  I can see why you love them!!  I wear boots (or a least booties) all year round too.  Great choice! VernieJane on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression/page/2#post-1190254 Mon, 10 Mar 2014 08:42:33 +0000 VernieJane 1190254@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ In any situation where I want to appear strong and in-control, I always (well, depending on weather, but summer is very short here) wear <a href="http://www.spartoo.co.uk/Art-PARIS-MOMA-x150595.php" rel="nofollow">these boots</a> which I bought online last year. I often get complimented on them, and they are super comfortable, I can wear them all day even doing a lot of walking, and still look classy and together--while still looking fresh and hip, going on 40...Highly recommended! Neel on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression/page/2#post-1190196 Mon, 10 Mar 2014 04:52:59 +0000 Neel 1190196@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Lol gryffin! I don't think that's weird! I feel tall too at just short of 5'4 ... I never feel intimidated by tall people! If that's weird .... Then it makes two of us ;) And thanks for your lovely comments! Made my day ... I will try not to get carried away gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression/page/2#post-1190081 Mon, 10 Mar 2014 01:42:33 +0000 gryffin 1190081@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ MRL - I can't think of a more perfect group of descriptors than simple, black and flattering.  I adore black so I am so on board!!  Of course I'm only 5"3" so even in heels height is not so impressive!!  It's interesting that you feel more confident when you appear taller.  I'm considered short but I never feel that way.  I always feel like I am the same size as everyone else until I see photos.  Is that weird or what!!? MRL on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1190043 Mon, 10 Mar 2014 00:43:54 +0000 MRL 1190043@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I usually wear something simple, black and flattering. A dress, skirt or pants depending on the occasion. And heels. I am 5'7" without them, but feel more confident when I am tall. gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189981 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 23:53:52 +0000 gryffin 1189981@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ torontogirl - phone always difficult!!  Great outfit.  Tailored, classic, refined and elegant but interesting jewelry makes it personal and definitely ramps up the style quotient.  I think that's such a versatile combination that it would work for most situations.  Swap to pencil skirt for more formal, you could go any where.  Great choice!! Helena on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189970 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 23:42:26 +0000 Helena 1189970@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great thread! My no fail - black tailored button up, dark wash jeans, heels, something interesting in jewelry dept. Swap out items as appropriate to occasion. Sorry in advance for short responses, on phone for next week gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189926 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 22:34:21 +0000 gryffin 1189926@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Aubergine - sounds like deceptively "basic."  Any outfit that can work through various levels of formality sounds like the ultimate workhorse to me!!  A great bag does elevate an outfit.  I am still looking for that perfect black sheath dress to do that for me.  Gosh, where is Holly Golightley's LBD!!  I need that!! Cocolion - it sounds like you and Mo have a better sense in your areas of what the expectations are.  If you know that you can filter anything you wear through that lense with greater ease.  I do think you have amazing style and it suits your figure and aesthetic.  I can't imagine anyone not "liking" it.  Maybe because although the pieces are interesting, you incorporate them in such a balanced and organic way in your outfits, they just look right.  I never see the "piece" I always see "you" which attests to how effective your style is.  Day Vies - another incredible point.  No one says you have to blend in!!  The other route, as you say, is be yourself and own it!!  LOVE IT!!  LOVE IT!!  LOVE IT!!!  Wise woman!! Yes, you did Mo and you looked stunning!!  those shoes picking up the burgundy and the silvery gray!!  Wow, Great Look!!  As Day Vies said, if you can't blend in then just be unique!!  Fab outfit!! Mo on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189904 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 21:54:02 +0000 Mo 1189904@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Yes, Denise!  Thank you for articulating it.  Besides a job expo at Harrah's two falls back, I can't remember a 'professional' setting.  And that wasn't even professional in the way that most here on the board would think.  It was full of fleece and jeans (as the mountains invariably are).  I wore a silk shirt and crop tux jacket over black jeans.  Day Vies on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189897 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 21:48:01 +0000 Day Vies 1189897@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ In ambiguous situations unrelated to work I tend to for individuality than traditional. My style is already in the polished classic zone so going with a bold color, bold jewelry or bold hair makes a classic look my own and allows me to express my individuality. I have learned the hard way that I rarely if ever blend into the background so it's better for me to own my unique attributes. This is what I wore to an annual fundraiser featuring several dance troupes last August. I felt quite comfortable and stylish though I could have worn a cocktail dress and heels (which I did the year before attending the same fundraiser). CocoLion on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189896 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 21:40:25 +0000 CocoLion 1189896@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I relate to what Mo said.  Neither of us work in the corporate world, we both work in hospitality/food service.  It's been a long time since I had an occasion where I might feel uncomfortable.  We also don't live in big cities, she lives in a small town in Florida or the California mountains like me (she's lucky enough to be bi-coastal).  As for me, it's not so much that I feel confident, it's more that my lifestyle is so simple.  I know my style and love of fashion is more "out there" than many locals but then again they mostly see me in my work/server attire.  All of these threads about what kind of impression your clothes make has gotten me thinking.  I realize, no longer being in the corporate world, I don't think of this much.  I put way more emphasis now on how I interact with people.  But I think I might be naive.  I think I have become too relaxed about this and need to remember, not everyone is going to be so very open-minded about how one dresses.  I have a very tolerant viewpoint on style.  OK there is one type of style I see around here that is head scratching but I try to keep those opinions to myself. Anonymous on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189895 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 21:36:56 +0000 Anonymous 1189895@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Kind of like Laura, I usually end up in outfits that are sort of basic and an ambiguous level of formality in situations like that. Lots of black with maybe a little gray or burgundy and possibly one noticeable accessory to look like I'm not phoning it in. And I'll always choose a nicer, more fashion-y bag rather than the function-first kind I sometimes go for. gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189892 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 21:34:15 +0000 gryffin 1189892@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Alexandra - all true and good advice.  Funny that we forget that to express who we are in our clothing externally we actually have to know who we are inside..the ongoing and ever changing challenge!!  I agree with everything you've said, I think the problem is some hosts or parties are very vague on dress code and if you don't typically socialize in certain circles, there are unwritten rules that we are often unaware of.  Although you know, I am a huge proponent of expressing who I am through style, that does nto mean I want to be conspicious about it either.  I think Gabrielle liked her outfit fine, but not in that particular situation.  I do think there is a balance for wanting to keep the oufit in keeping with the norm while skewing it to express the inner style.  But that's sometimes a tough call, at least for me!! Alexandra on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189887 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 21:19:19 +0000 Alexandra 1189887@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ OK, I can't actually think of a stressful situation right now, but I think the point is to dress as oneself (this goes back to your other thread, gryffin, about sending messages through clothing) and appropriate to the occasion. I think when your clothes express who you are on the inside, you are comfortable. On second thought, I guess this assumes that you are comfortable with who you are on the inside. I haven't thought of that before. Figuring out what is actually meant by the dress code notation is usually best accomplished by simply asking the host. gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189838 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 20:36:08 +0000 gryffin 1189838@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Angie - You see that's exactly the issue!  You have such a wonderful sense of how to select your outfit for the occasion, location, and culture.  Whether that is an innate sensitivity or hard earned experience speaking, I don't think most of us have that level of confidence.  The broader the range of occasions and the further from our usual environment, the higher the level of panic.  I think for many of us this is the crux of the issue.  Yes, we might have a general sense of what to wear, but we are unsure if it will hit the mark.  To feel comfortable and appropriate but authentic is the goal, so we can forget about what we are wearing, and just be us.  Like black tie optional - I know what the literal dress code implies but for different areas it might skew to lavish ballgowns or mostly short cocktail attire.  We might be within the general code but not within what is locally done and therefore feel off, out of place, and uncomfortable.  That's the trick!!  What we really all need is for you to come dress us every day!!  Sheesh, how exhausting would that be for you, but heaven for us!! ;-) Vicki - I am still wistful over that gorgeous HL nova dress you bought.  It looks so divine on you!!  If it had been black or gray I would have gone for it. I am definitely in a HL phase but so far jackets and sweaters only.  I'd really love a great dress, sigh.... Vicki on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189790 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 19:45:30 +0000 Vicki 1189790@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks for the link, Gryffin and I really like your HL tuxedo jacket, too. Angie on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189776 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 19:33:51 +0000 Angie 1189776@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Gryffin, you are a wise lady and I love your strategy.  I don't think I think about this generally. I choose my outfit more specifically to suit the environmental norm without sacrificing my style sensibilities.  Mo on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189769 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 19:28:08 +0000 Mo 1189769@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ You give me too much credit  But thanks!    gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189760 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 19:21:25 +0000 gryffin 1189760@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ But Mo - that is still such a coup.  To know and feel secure that you always know how to dress to be yourself and feel comfortable in your normal situations.  I don't think there are many of us with that much assurance that amount of the time.   I think it's wonderful.  There will alway be events and situations that are trickier, but I think you have more of a handle on it than most of us feel that we do.  Honestly, that's just fantastic!!  Kudos!! Mo on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189749 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 19:12:26 +0000 Mo 1189749@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I should add the caveat that it's not that I don't ever find the need to dress to impress, but that I don't know of any recent events where I had no clues as to the dress code/attire appropriateness.   One of the more recent (geez, 2 years ago!) times I remember is meeting an old lady friend of the BF's who I wanted to look approachable but not like I was trying to be 'hotter than' if that makes sense.   gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189746 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 19:11:13 +0000 gryffin 1189746@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ IK - well you know you had me at black, add kicking black shoes (okay boots for me) stir...rouge and white teeth.  Again, really good suggestions that I would not have thought of.  Great grooming point.  Plus you kow I love jewelry that is special.  All really great ideas to feel confident. gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189743 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 19:08:16 +0000 gryffin 1189743@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Mo- Gosh we will have to name you the princess of confidence!!  Can you sell us all some of that!!  Never to have to worry about impressing anyone!!  You go girl!!  That just floors me!!  Of course, you do always look wonderful but to have that kind of assurance, well you are more evolved than I am!!  Oh let's shake our charms - we can be sisters in harmony!!  There used to be great small stores in NYC (Star Magic was one) that carried them but now they are all gone.  I've seen at Renaissance Faires and you can still find them online but tough to find.  It's a shame they really are charming!! ironkurtin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189741 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 19:07:14 +0000 ironkurtin 1189741@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Black. Jewelry that is special to me. Rouge. Whitened teeth. Kicking black shoes. gryffin on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189737 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 19:03:17 +0000 gryffin 1189737@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Laura - I think that's a really good point.  Being out of line, formality wise, in either direction can be uncomfortable.  I think I am always more confortable being formal, so I would be more inclined to overdress.  Someone else might find that very uncomfortable.  I so agree, not just in this situation, any clothing or footware that is fussy, painful, tight, uncomfortable is not for me.  How could you concentrate on anything else.  I want my outfit to just vanish - if I feel great I really don't notice what I have on only that I feel good and don't want to ever take it off!! Neel - honestly you sell yourself short!!  You always look polished, stylish and interesting!!  You wear your clothes beautifully and you have a great eye for color, scale, proportion and pattern mixing you always look great!!  I am certainly always admiring and learning things from the way you style your outfits and I look forward to your WIW's!!  But another great point!!  A smile is the best accessory anyone can ever have especially when it comes through their eyes!!  Who can resist that?  Absolutely no one!! Mo on "What do you wear, in stressful situations, when you are trying to make a good impression?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-in-stressful-situations-when-you-are-trying-to-make-a-good-impression#post-1189735 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 19:02:52 +0000 Mo 1189735@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ ah, a world charm necklace . . . I have one.  I shake my world all the time and I love it!   Is it a cop out to say I don't have these situations in my life?  Or at least I can't think of any.