https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 05 May 2026 04:17:05 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819954 Wed, 16 Jan 2013 13:53:31 +0000 kimlee 819954@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ornella - Thank you for the concern regarding my daughter. She is feeling 100% better. </p> <p>MandipaM - It was very much a power purge. But it was a great learning experience and lots of ideas for future looks. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819910 Wed, 16 Jan 2013 13:20:28 +0000 ManidipaM 819910@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>That is a *power purge* --- how clever (and brave!) of you to do it over nap time!</p> <p>And very coherent analysis as well. Sounds like a very productive three hours, because not only have you sorted out your closet, you also have identified holes (both needs and wants), honed in on style preferences (and hopefully a style direction based on them), and started a shopping list complete with recommended brands! </p> <p>That's quite a to-do for three hours! Well done! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819884 Wed, 16 Jan 2013 12:15:15 +0000 Ornella 819884@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, kimlee, firstly I hope your daughter is better by now.</p> <p>3 hour (what a nap ) and such great insights - you should be proud of yourself, you are so efficient. Your learnings make perfect sense and look fwd to your future posts that will showcase them in action. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819862 Wed, 16 Jan 2013 10:55:47 +0000 kimlee 819862@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Beth Ann - Thank you so much for the tips regarding shoes. I have a little extra room in the budget right now. However, if I can get comfy (and cute) choes at a lower cost then that just means I can buy more...right? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819433 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 23:10:16 +0000 Beth Ann 819433@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great work, Kimlee. Now you're armed with a focused shopping list and a closet that's working for you! Better than spending naptime on reality TV (unless it's Downton Abbey, of course).</p> <p>If your budget is modest, and your foot it average to wide, I've had great luck with Aerosoles for comfortable dress shoes. Miss Mooz and BOC have worked for me as well, at a a little higher, but reasonable price point. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819356 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 21:10:30 +0000 kimlee 819356@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Mo - 20 flip flops may be a bit much. But in my very small town there are often the footwear of choice in the summer. I have received numerous pairs as gifts so I feel guilty about getting rid of them.<br /> So I'm keeping them but adding 'real' shoes to my closet.</p> <p>Tina B - I know that comfortable heels do exist but I have not devoted a lot of time to finding them. Now, I have a list of recommendations and I am ready to shop.</p> <p>Clearlyclaire - I felt much calmer after I purged and sorted. It was almost like therapy.</p> <p>Rachylou - I like boots. But our weather here nevers stays cold enough for long enough to justify a lot of investment. For example, it has been 80 degrees or more for the past 2 weeks. </p> <p>Kristin - Thank you for the recommendation! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819346 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 21:05:28 +0000 Kristin L 819346@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It sounds like you did great job cleaning out your closet and figuring out what really works for you. I have fussy feet as well and have found that Borns seem to make my feet happy. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819325 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 20:52:12 +0000 rachylou 819325@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I agree, fabulous, clean, clear analsysis. And I'm so impressed you did all that in three hours!</p> <p>Your thoughts on boots? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819290 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 20:07:19 +0000 Anonymous 819290@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Awesome! And hooray for hidden storage. I love the way it lets you "pretend" that you've actually gotten rid of a bunch of clothes...just to test drive having just a few faves in your closet. After doing the same thing recently, it was just as I suspected. I wasn't wearing the bulk of my things anyway, so the 80/20 rule must have been at play all along. </p> <p>OT: After reading some articles and blogs on minimalism last week, I attacked the rest of my house this past weekend and now I'm feeling rather zen. And I can get my kitchen drawers closed again without a fight! I swear those spatulas were breeding in there. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819234 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 19:10:00 +0000 Tina.b 819234@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Such an insightful look at your personal style and goals, I enjoyed reading it. My five year old daughter is home sick with me today and I fear I would not be able to accomplish nearly as much.</p> <p>Comfortable heels do exist, it is so worth trying lots if you enjoy them. They will really add to the look with jackets and pencil skirts. Look forward to seeing where your new style direction takes you! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819231 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 19:05:00 +0000 Mo 819231@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This was great to read. I am thinking about some mini purging myself as I settle back into life in the mountains after so much time in my warmer climate. Even I (living in FL for most of the last 3 years) was shocked to read you have 20 flip flops! I agree some 'real' shoes will really add dimension to your closet and outfits. Good luck with heading into your style direction! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819170 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 17:31:10 +0000 kimlee 819170@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Teri - This overhaul was a long time in the making. I had simply ran out of space but felt as though I was wearing the same things over and over.</p> <p>Anne - I am excited to hear that I may have given you some insights into your own style.</p> <p>Kris- The trousers that I dislike just don't have a good drape. I have them in the think it over pile. And I like your idea of trying them again with new shoes.</p> <p>Sara - Thank you!</p> <p>Diane - Thank you! Footwear is a struggle so I am looking forward to the challenge.</p> <p>MNSara - Thank you. No, a little heel wouldn't ruin the PPL.</p> <p>Raisin - Thank you. </p> <p>Suz - Thank you.</p> <p>Carole - Thank you for the tip on shoes!</p> <p>Tracey - Thank you.</p> <p>Cheryl - Thank you. </p> <p>Lisa - Thank you.</p> <p>Emily - Thank you.</p> <p>Glory - Thank you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819141 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:56:01 +0000 Glory 819141@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great use of the nap time! Sounds like you worked really hard in those 3 hours and were very decisive - I admire that! You have a great list of what to look for and what you love to wear! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819122 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:36:40 +0000 Emily 819122@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congrats on your closet overhaul! 3 hours is not bad at all and it sounds like you got a lot out of the cleanup. I also love reading these sorts of posts - so fun to get a peek in peoples closets/lives. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819121 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:35:23 +0000 Lisa 819121@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congrats on a successful closet clean out. I <a href="http://www.shoppingbrake.blogspot.com/2013/01/just-not-dress-girl.html">recently purged</a> the majority of dresses from my closet because I rarely wear them. And I don't own any skirts or vests because they were never worn. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819065 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:02:56 +0000 cheryl 819065@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What a great read. These are my favorite type of posts. Congratulations on the closet clean out and way to go on the revelations. Sounds like you are well on your way to a perfect wardrobe for your likes and needs. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819060 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:00:27 +0000 TraceyLiz65 819060@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What a wonderful undertaking and result. Info is power and now you have what you need to move forward with purpose....congratulations! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819016 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:14:32 +0000 Carole 819016@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What a wonderful accomplishment! Sounds like you have a very clear picture of what your needs and preferences are. I have fussy feet, too, and sympathize! Check out the Fidji brand (Nordstrom, Zappos) carry them and they are about the only heel I've found that I can wear. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819006 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:58:17 +0000 Suz 819006@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kimlee, yippee!! You made such good use of that precious nap time. Oh, I remember that time of life so well when you need to figure out what to do with two hours and can't focus on work because you aren't sure when you might be interrupted. </p> <p>This is a wonderful analysis and I am very excited about where you are going. It seems consistent with everything you've said in the past (I know you've admired MaryK's style - and pencil skirts with jackets are a good way into that!). And it's also consistent with what looks good on you. Your hair will always provide some softness as well, so that's a consideration. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-819004 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:54:03 +0000 Anonymous 819004@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks Linda! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-818994 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:47:07 +0000 milehighstyle (Linda) 818994@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Proper pant length </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-818986 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:43:51 +0000 Anonymous 818986@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sorry, but what is PPL? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-818981 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:42:42 +0000 Raisin 818981@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>WOW, great closet clean out! It sounds like you really put a lot of time and thought into what works for you. I've been doing this too, but a little bit more spread out. I think I still have a few things to go, and few to buy, but overall my wardrobe is in a much better state. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-818980 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:42:14 +0000 MNsara 818980@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What a great accomplishment and great insights! I do like Krish's advice about saving some trousers for some new footwear -- unless a little heel would ruin their PPL for you.</p> <p>I'm with you on the love of jacket structure Plus the fabrics don't usually get tired looking like cardis do. </p> <p>Good work! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-818976 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:41:35 +0000 Anonymous 818976@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well done on spending that time to sort through everything. Your post made for interesting reading. I too have problems with shoes, mainly due to narrow heels. I will be interested to see what shoes you come up with to wear with skirts as that is where I struggle to match up footwear. As Krishnidoux said, maybe hang on to a couple of pairs of pants or try a different shape.They could prove usefull. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-818960 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:30:02 +0000 Sara L. 818960@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great work! I'm impressed that you are able to find such clear insights and a plan of action for moving forward. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-818950 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:21:05 +0000 krishnidoux 818950@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great analysis! And very interesting read too. I think you are moving from casual to smart or business, de-frumping your wardrobe like this! Very interesting about the pants vs skirts. What is it that you don't like about the other pairs? Straight legs are always a sure choice. </p> <p>About shoes: I find personally that a lot of things fit differently depending on my footwear. For example, I have the hardest time wearing skirts with flat shoes, ballet flat being the one exception, and still, it's stretching it. But I do have fussy feet like you, and love to walk whenever and wherever I can. So I spent the last few years investing mostly on very good pairs from a few companies I found did well on my feet:<br /> Clarks<br /> Clark Artisan<br /> Ecco<br /> Joseph Siebel</p> <p>It's more expensive when I buy them but it makes the whole difference in my closet and in my life. Some pants look better with a little heel, which is now possible thanks to the better quality shoes. Often, you don't need towering heels, but just a little lift, even if you are tall, it's all a question of proportion. </p> <p>So before you get rid of all your pants, I suggest putting them away until you have gotten more footwear options. You might be very surprised. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-818947 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:12:42 +0000 anne 818947@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Kimleee, I am impressed with your work and your clear plans!! (and I think you may have given me some insight into my own style too, I share some similar preferences) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-818946 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:12:06 +0000 teri 818946@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>congrats to you for your overhaul.</p> <p>I too need to do this again. I have sooo many items I hold onto even though I haven't worn them in quite some time. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-i-learned-from-my-closet-overhaul#post-818942 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:05:59 +0000 kimlee 818942@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hello lovelies! I hinted that this post was coming on Friday – and then I got busy and never made it back to the computer to share it with you. On Friday, my daughter was running a temperature – nothing too high but just high enough that she couldn’t go to daycare. In turn, I was unable to make it into the office. When I finally managed to get my daughter down for a nap, I used the time to do an exhaustive review (and purge) of my closet.</p> <p>I tried on each and every item that was in my closet. I sorted them into piles of keep, donate, out-of-sight/think about it, and trash. As I tried on the various items, I began to get a clearer picture of what I do and do not like in terms of my style. It was a process that gave me the following insights:</p> <p>1.While most of my looks tend to have an element of “softness” to them, I really prefer structure. I kept every single one of my structured jackets and blazers, but donated numerous cardigans because they just didn’t wow me when I put them on. The cardigans that remained in my closet are ones that either are a bright color, have an interesting pattern, or are an unusual shape (think boyfriend, cascading, etc.)</p> <p>2.When I was sorting thru the cardigans, I created a few looks with them and most of them felt more “smart casual” than business casual to me. Therefore, I see myself wearing my cardi’s on Fridays or the weekends vs. a normal workday.</p> <p>3.Trousers may not be for me….. I currently own 10 pairs of trousers, but there are only 3 that I absolutely love. Those are my Navy blue Ann Taylor suit pants, my grey pinstriped Banana Republic suit pants, and a fab pair of tan Limited trousers that Rae scored for me. The first two pairs are lined, have a nice drape, and are more formal. The Limited trousers are unlined, not as drapey, and have a more business casual appearance. Taking this into account, I am going to start pare down my trouser collection, and begin to search for more suit pants to use with other separates in my wardrobe. I would like to find trousers in a straight leg cut as it is a silhouette I currently do not own.</p> <p>4.I adore pencil skirts. Every pencil skirt remained in my closet – and I felt fab in each of them. My goal now is to add to my collection – I’ve got my eye on a few Halogen skirts in fun colors. </p> <p>5.I love color but there is not a lot of it in my closet. The majority of my tops are black, grey, or navy. I have a few that are brightly colored but not nearly enough. I really adore bright blues, yellows, deep purples, and rust/orange. Another shopping goal is to find tops in my favorite colors.</p> <p>6.My shoe collection is sad – I own 12 pairs of sneakers, 20 pairs of flip-flops, but only 3 pairs of heels (black, brown, and a leopard print). I have fussy feet, so finding cute shoes is always a struggle, so I’ve kept my heel collection to the minimum. As the year unfolds, I am going to be hunting for heels that will be comfortable but are more “fun”!</p> <p>If you are still reading, then bless you. The total closet clean-out took nearly 3 hours. But it was time well spent, as I feel I have better handle on my style preferences, as well as the true gaps in my wardrobe. Now I can set out to shop with a purpose. </p>