YouLookFab Forum » Topic: What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: What was your most and least successful purchase of the year? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:54:24 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php El Cee on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1765260 Tue, 03 Jan 2017 22:16:11 +0000 El Cee 1765260@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great thread!!! Have had mostly shopping successes this year. My best purchases have been culottes (multiple pairs) and cargo jogger pants that I wish were available in multiple colors. (I would most assuredly duplicate these pants.) My only "miss" this year was a pair of light wash high-rise cropped jeans from Old Navy. The lighter wash and higher waist make these feel a bit too much like "mom jeans" for my body type and age. I may hack these into shorts come summer. Lisa on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1765242 Tue, 03 Jan 2017 20:39:36 +0000 Lisa 1765242@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ What a great question.  My favorite purchase turned out to be an impulse that worked, a crossbody, purple leather, bag.  It fits my wallet perfectly and was ideal for running errands in the summer months.  My worst purchase were multiple pairs of Lucky Brand jeans I got on sale at the outlet.  The price was really cheap ($12 to $16 each) but I didn't need them so the new jeans sat until I donated them. Mary Beth (formerly LBD) on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1765049 Tue, 03 Jan 2017 04:47:18 +0000 Mary Beth (formerly LBD) 1765049@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ You know what? I have no idea what my most successful or worst purchase was! The latter part of the year was hectic and stressful and then joyful... and I haven't really thought about clothes. I can say offhand, I bought two pairs of 100-denier tights, "made in Italy" at Marshalls. They were soft but the waist kept rolling down. That's the fail that most immediately comes to mind. ETA: the things I most loved: a reversible, mink-lined jacket that kept me toasty in Canada, and a pair of vintage Ferragamo boots, were purchased in previous years. Suz on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1765043 Tue, 03 Jan 2017 04:23:47 +0000 Suz 1765043@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ooooh. I like that idea! .  UmmLila (Lisa) on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1765006 Tue, 03 Jan 2017 02:06:59 +0000 UmmLila (Lisa) 1765006@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have been tremendously interested in everyone's answers on this thread. Thank you so much for commenting. Now I'm wondering if we should have a "what is the craziest thing you bought last year?" thread. Barbara Diane on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1765000 Tue, 03 Jan 2017 01:56:58 +0000 Barbara Diane 1765000@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I love my Skagen watch. NAS love. I smile every time I see my colorful Vans. Least, also an NAS purchase. The dress I purchased for a February 2017 event under the illusion that I would continue losing weight. Weight is up, not down. Lesson learned. Do not shop that far ahead. A necklace. Another NAS purchase. I always pick something else. It hits me at the wrong place, which I ignored. I might add more length to it. Unsure of still : 1. Two other NAS dresses, which I have only worn once each, and which I am unsure about. Time will tell whether they were mistakes or expanded my style. I know that next time I will take photos of me in any dress with that bold a pattern before I decide.  2. A scarf I haven't worn yet. I just realized that it's still in a small Nordstrom bag, so I don't see it. I'm going to put it where I will see it. Ginger on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1764708 Mon, 02 Jan 2017 02:12:01 +0000 Ginger 1764708@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ This is a wonderful way to approach the year in review! My most successful purchases were: Cole Haan Zerogrand sneakers in metallic blue. I first started wearing fashion sneakers in 2015, but these are by far my favorites. Super comfortable and so refined they look like sporty oxfords. The blue and white combination is perfect with my wardrobe and skin tone. I love how they update and casualize my fallback retro look. Hell Bunny cardigans. I bought these in five colors, but it was a long-standing HEWI. Long sleeve waist length cardigans in colors let me pull together warm-weather outfits that look fabulous both in A/C and in heat. Glamorous printed lace up maxi dress. I didn't need this, but I love it, and wear it as often as I can. Joy per wear is very high. Also significantly, it's the exact dress that the Duchess of Cambridge wore in India. As I'm continuing to try to define my style, I realized that she is an excellent style icon for me. The dress felt like a wild card at the time. But my ongoing use and delight in it confirm that it was a wise choice. Sunny Girl floral on black knit dress. This dress simply couldn't be better: tailored fit in a non-clingy knit, long sleeves, longer skirt, and a print with every color I use and none I don't. It's a brilliant lesson for me on how fabulous it is when I don't compromise when shopping. Pearl and CZ earrings. This was an inexpensive purchase on a whim, inspired by the simple elegance of Queen Elizabeth II's "button" earrings for daily wear. I love how they are the perfect accent and don't hide in my shorter, curlier hair style. Aquatalia Rhumba tall boots. These filled a wardrobe hole for tall black boots, thanks to my style icon: How does she fill that hole? Some determined stalking later, and these boots were mind. Such a revelation! Superb quality and excellent fit on my feet and legs. I'm so glad I did not compromise here. In doing this review, it's suddenly very clear that Refined and Feminine are extremely important style descriptors for me. I can and have been contented with items that are less than that; but the biggest successes above are all very high on the Refined and Feminine factors. "Refined" for me means clean lines. In clothing, a tailored fit, particularly at the shoulders and waist; in footwear, a slender profile, usually almond or point toes, and lack of distressing. "Feminine" is tricky to define, but for me it tends toward pretty colors and dainty or interesting details. It's gratifying that I can think of only two "least successful" items. There are a lot of purchases that I didn't really need, but few downright unsuccessful. SimplyVera purple shark bite top. I love the the cut and fabric and it's a lovely color. But I don't wear longer length flowing tops with anything but jeans. They don't work with skirts or non-jeans legwear, so they're nearly orphaned. Fifi woven leather sandals in rose gold. Rose gold is gorgeous, and these fit extremely well. But they're really uncomfortable! Inflexible with no cushioning, so very difficult to walk in. They're useable with thick pads of adhesive moleskin at ball and heel, but I should have returned them. And I knew that at the time. At least it was not a costly error. Colette on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1764702 Mon, 02 Jan 2017 01:29:40 +0000 Colette 1764702@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Overall I had a good year, all thanks to YLF of course and a lot of restraint. I did take a lot of time to really scrutinized each purchase so that helped as well. A few of my least successful purchases that come to mind; Loft peasant blouse because it ripped in the first hour I wore it, Gap jogger pants because I feel weird in them, and a Lou & Grey Sweater because it stretched out the first time I wore it and hangs funny. Also, I did duplicate my favorite black merino crew and turtleneck sweater that I love in different colors but I rarely or never reach for them. Top of the most successful list is a black dress I purchased for a wedding in early spring. I LOVE THIS DRESS. Next best would have to be the ivory jacket I purchased, on impulse wearing super sales goggles. I was going to return it because I had my heart set on a pure white jacket but couldn't find one that I loved. i ended up keeping it and not only did I wear it multiple times, I received compliments every time I wore it. I may or may not have picked up another color recently, also on sale. The snake print sandals. Again, I was on the fence about these because I have a hard time with light colored footwear but my Mom loved them on me and said I would be silly if I didn't keep them, so I did and after the first wear, I loved them. I can't forget about the Rebecca Minkoff 'Ciao' clutch I stumbled on while dress shopping. I almost walked away but it was screaming at me to take it home, so I did. Wore it a few times and love it. It's one of those odd ball things that just makes me happy when I see it in my closet. The 'I just want to hang with my dog' tshirt, the purchase benefits a local Chicago animal rescue so no explanation necessary. I wear it all the time, gift it and everyone asks me where I got it. (<a href="http://www.shoptaylorwolfe.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.shoptaylorwolfe.com/</a>) The number one best purchase because it is a true workhorse is this long wrap cardigan thing that I picked up, on impulse of course, as a dressing gown and modesty cover up for a trip. The sales associate was wearing it as a clothing item but I decided it was going to be loungewear for me. (I gave up on my traditional robes because they are too bulky for me and just don't stay closed.) I love it and wear every day. It's my most favorite loungewear item ever. Nadya on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1764561 Sun, 01 Jan 2017 16:52:48 +0000 Nadya 1764561@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Fun thread!   Like a lot of you, some of my best purchases were shoes.  Treasure and Bond Marko silver sneakers. Having "fashion" sneakers for the first time was a fabulous addition.  I wore them for travel, for shopping and for work, with skirts, with wide legged and narrow slacks. Love them.  Sarto burgundy booties These are super comfortable and add a touch of color to my winter wardrobe. They're a sleeker profile than most of my other boots or booties, which I find makes them more versatile. I would duplicate except I really don't need the other colors! Gabor sandal. This neutral with a twist sandal made all my summer outfits better and was very comfortable.  One awesome top: Vince Camuto striped tunic. This simple top was a workhorse. It's rare for me to find a tunic long enough for me. This year I found several and this was my favorite.  I had to stop myself from wearing this top all the time.  And, since it's me - crazy pants! Melissa McCarthy cherry blossom splatter jeans Lane Bryant Modernist crop My one big failure was the yellow cropped pants. The quality just wasn't there - they looked wrinkled all the time, and started pilling immediately. Out they went. jill58 on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1764348 Sat, 31 Dec 2016 23:34:33 +0000 jill58 1764348@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Such an interesting thread. My favorite purchases of the year-- Theory Elkaey Blazer--perfect fit--I love it. Andrew Marc boucle coat. I have always had black coats and wanted something with subtle color. Sam Edelman 'Justin' chelsea boots--perfect booties. I wear them all the time. Target/Merona Denim Jacket.  Rebecca Minkoff 'Grace' bag. I bought this wonderful bag on ebay for a fraction of the list price. It replaces a large hobo bag that I used to carry and serves the same function. Rebecca Minkoff Mini Love cross body bag. Perfect for evening/events when I want to carry very little. Now for the less successful-- Lucky Brand Dempsey Bucket bag. It doesn't have a zipper and the magnetic closure is awkward. When it tips over I'm always afraid that everything will roll out of it. Ona Scrunch Ballet Flats from Target. I purchased these recently and may return them before they become a mistake. I'm always drawn to ballet flats but in reality find them not terribly comfortable. Steve Madden Nilunda sandals.  I loved these sandals when I tried them on but realized too late that the heels are just a smidge too high for me. Target Floral Print Contrast Top. What was I thinking? Gigi on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1764173 Sat, 31 Dec 2016 06:32:05 +0000 Gigi 1764173@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ What a great thread! UmmLila, I love that J. Crew coat. I've been wanting a new winter coat for the longest time...I'll have to keep my eye out at J. Crew. I went back over my purchases for this past year, and to my surprise, almost all of them have been favorites and worn a lot! So I am proud of myself. The main duds in the bunch were some belts that I had bought, but my weight changed after I bought them, and they no longer fit. So I was prevented from wearing them. My best purchases 2016 are . Blondo booties. These are like hiking boots with heels! I love them because they are very sturdy but also fashionable. Great for days when the weather and walkways are crummy (snow and salt and sand everywhere). . Pour la Victoire booties. I have been looking for a pair of Victorian-inspired booties for a long time, and these fit the bill! I like how they are modern and on trend. I get lots of compliments when I wear them. The leather is like buttah. Very comfy. . Cole Haan OTK boots. Something that actually fits my calves and is on trend! Comfortable too. I haven't been able to wear them much because it's been too icy, though.  . Patricia Nash handbag. I made this my everyday handbag for fall/winter. It's a nice size but not so big that you carry around everything and the kitchen sink. . Anthropologie denim dress. I wore this tons in the hot weather. I generally don't wear dresses because it is hard to find ones that fit right (I'm two different sizes on top and bottom). This one fit, and wow, was it a lot cooler than wearing separates. . Topshop crops. My one pair of cropped flares, and I love them! They are very versatile and really show off high-shaft booties. I like the higher rise--it's actually more of a midrise. My worst purchases of 2016 are  . Free People striped tee. It was a little big in the shoulders for me, but I figured that since it was rayon, it would shrink a bit. Nope. If anything, it stretched out more, the more I wore it. Back to the drawing board on that one. . Ann Taylor high-rise jeans. These were a bit of a wild card for me. I just feel frumpy in them. The rise just doesn't look flattering on me. Jen W on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year/page/2#post-1764166 Sat, 31 Dec 2016 04:24:05 +0000 Jen W 1764166@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My best purchases this year were a navy Hinge jacket that was a great lightweight layer for the daily temperature summer swings in the Bay Area, the BR kick crops that Angie recommended (I was positive these wouldn't work on me, but they became a gateway to other crops this year), the NAS French Connection peacoat that was another Angie pick, and the NAS Caslon poncho that I copycatted from someone else here (I think RobinF?).  My DH hit it out of the park this year on gifts with a pair of pearl Melissa Joy Manning hoops and the Rebecca Minkoff Moto Hobo.  All of these were winners because they suited my casual lifestyle and my climate.  They all felt really good and were very versatile.  I'm slowly becoming a better shopper.   The poor choices this year were 3 ON maxi dresses that I purchased on sale for $15 and seemed perfect for my summer, but the long length ended up bothering me and kept me from being one step ahead of my active boys.  I'm thinking of hemming them for this summer so that they are a better fit for my lifestyle. This was a good reflection for me as I consider my goals for 2017.  Thank you! Penny on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764165 Sat, 31 Dec 2016 04:18:47 +0000 Penny 1764165@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great thread!  Most of my purchases this year were maternity dresses (eight that worked out splendidly throughout pregnancy), new robes and nighties (all navy, which I've loved), and a smattering of accessories and other items.   My most successful purchase was a pair of Samantha Wills earrings (pictured) that are clusters of marquise cubic zirconias - I wear them often to feel more dressy, and they work beautifully with many other pieces of jewelry that I own.   My least successful purchase was a button-down plaid nightshirt - it didn't fit my style and didn't make me happy, even though it was only intended as lounge / nursing-wear, and so I replaced it with a navy wrap nightie: a duplicate to wear when the other's in the wash.  Much better!  Anonymous on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764162 Sat, 31 Dec 2016 03:47:50 +0000 Anonymous 1764162@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ These are good questions to think about. I am mostly pleased with my purchases this year. A pair of leopard kitten heels that I had to have are not quite as comfortable as I'd hoped. They are not terrible but have only been worn once or twice. I also bought a pair of comfy brown booties but have not worn them. I don't think they were a bad purchase, but one that just isn't in regular rotation yet. They may end up being a late winter/early spring refresher. None footwear failures were a black cotton lace open duster type topper that I thought would be a good summer third piece over black tank dress but it was never worn. ( I still like the idea of it. Maybe next summer.) and There are many favorites: my pewter metallic booties, bone suede booties, black quilted and burgundy quilted ankle boots, my gold metallic bag. I've loved wearing new this year navy EF pants and jacket with a new silk navy and blush pink sleeveless blouse. My biggest mistakes fall into an area that is too dressy for my life style but I am still happy to have them. They may also be too classic for me now. Greenjeans on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764134 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 23:25:17 +0000 Greenjeans 1764134@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I bought three linen shirts from Uniqlo (below) and have worn the pink and olive one almost countlessly.  Even though they're the same shirt, each color makes them look/feel unique.  The ivory?  I think it wore it once, washed it, but never ironed.  In my closet it sits.  It's not like I don't like it.  But I reach for the other colors more.   carter on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764125 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 22:29:23 +0000 carter 1764125@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great question. My most successful purchases: 1. Paige skinny ankle jeans from NAS 2. Circle necklace from NAS 3. Athleta black skort 4. Lululemon capris 5. White ankle pants 6. Black knit slim pants 7. Black woven stretchy slim pants 8. Athleta black crops 9. Black tank from NAS 10. EF asymmetrical sleeveless top I have worn all of these a ton and continue to love them. I've duplicated the Athleta black capris and the black slim knit pants. I will duplicate the Athleta skort and the black woven stretchy slim pants. I would duplicate the white ankle pants if I could find them. My least successful purchases: 1. burgundy Paige jeans from NAS 2. Olive KUT jeans from NAS 3. Leopard loafers from NAS 4. EF pink and taupe sweater 5. green and black Costco skort 6. ON aqua tunic sweater 7. Lucy gear top I'm hoping the two pair of NAS jeans will see some wear in 2017. I just haven't reached for them. Same with the leopard loafers. The EF sweater was an ebay mistake...bad shape for me. I don't know what I was thinking with the green and black skort and the aqua sweater. So not my colors. The Lucy top just irritated me to the point I couldn't finish a class. Already gone. Brooklyn on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764120 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 22:06:38 +0000 Brooklyn 1764120@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have definitely made a few mistakes this year but I am trying to learn from them. One mistake was a cream top that I loved but which did not love me. I took a photo and realised how much the colour does not suit me. I looked like a ghost. No more cream near my face. Also, a jacket and a pullover that I liked the style of but which never felt right on my skin. Never settle for discomfort. I also bought my first pair of culottes. And I am still on the fence about them. They do feel odd. I won't call that yet. One mistake I did NOT make was to buy any long sleeve knit dresses. Not suited to my climate. Despite multiple temptations I held firm. Yay for that. Success stories: some Midas black boots that I wore to death. Comfortable and right up my style alley. Also a black military jacket from Zara that is light enough to wear in spring and autumn (and even warmer days in winter) and works well with dresses, skirts and jeans. But my floral Moto jacket is my favourite purchase of 2016 even though I haven't actually worn it yet. Gush, gush, gush. DonnaF on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764105 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 20:04:44 +0000 DonnaF 1764105@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My least successful purchases were my silver and gold sneakers due to (lack of) comfort.  They are two or three hour footwear. I don't wear it often, but I love my Topshop heavy denim dress, I think because it's *different*.  It's one of the few things for which I paid full price. The mini bucket bag and clogs go with so much. . . The faux fur clutch is another full price item.  I have to take an allergy pill before I use it, but I love it because it's so silly. The denim jumper can be worn in various temps and has pockets!!!  I've also worn it over my crop flares. I've finally figured out that in addition to working better than other footwear for my fussy feet, I love clogs because they are easy to kick off.  Black'n'white combos draw me like a moth to a flame, and this Madewell flannel shirtdress is so-o-o SOFT.  But then, I've only worn it once and it hasn't yet been washed so it is softness peak. Finally, the EF harems.  They've triggered a few top purchases that I probably otherwise would not have considered.  I love them because they're *different* and fun and disguise my heavy bowed legs. Staysfit on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764090 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 18:41:30 +0000 Staysfit 1764090@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Picking the six most successful pieces from my wardrobe for the year was tough. I couldn't come up with one defining parameter of what makes a garment "successful". It's an open ended question begging for each of us to interpret in a unique way. My method of sorting this out, among my maximal closet, where I have so many pieces I consider successful, was to walk into my closet and touch the six items that seemed to speak loudest to the issue at hand. The results range from practical workhorses, to colorful statement pieces, and even to the sentimental. The finds below are the result: 1. J Crew Lookout High Rise Jean - The high rise feels fresh and fits me well. These are a wardrobe workhorse, a new essential item, and a big winner for me this year. I have them in cropped and long versions and several colors. Once I find my jeans I stick with them. 2. Canada Goose Mystique Parka - This coat replaced one from Eddie Bauer. It's already kept me warm on a -4 F day. I'm happy. I hope it lasts 10 years like it's predecessor. 3. MZ Wallace Small Sutton Quilted Oxford Bag - An unexpected surprise, this bag is very light and stays on even when using crutches. It was a big selling point for me, LOL! I'm thinking of getting a lighter color if they have one for Spring/Summer travel. 4. Fuschia Tippi Turtleneck sweater from J Crew. This is really a statement piece in my wardrobe because of the color. I wear it when I want to make a splash, or jazz something up. Big success. 5. Volcom cozy day flannel plaid shirt. It looks casual and unassuming, maybe even non-descript, but it is pure magic in my closet. 6. Tracy Reese T Confetti print stretch silk dress. You will need to take my word that this is "my dress". I wore it for both my DD's college and DS's High School graduations this year. It has sentimental value, it fits perfectly, I feel beautiful when I wear it. Big win! My biggest failure this year was the purchase of a burgundy Obi belt in faux leather. It has gone unused. I don't like the texture or color. Mistake. Suz on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764088 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 18:33:09 +0000 Suz 1764088@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I love this thread. Ummlila, I'm with Angie in suggesting that you hang onto the toffee culottes and try next year. Of course, I admit, I love culottes! But these would bookend your hair beautifully and could create some cohesive and interesting outfits. It may be a footwear issue and also a climate issue. I still find it harder to wear culottes in cold weather, although I have managed it a couple of times with tall boots underneath and long silk undies.  I made a LOT of purchases this year -- about 50!! (That's more than a third of my closet, yikes!) I also passed on at least as many items, mostly because they were worn out or didn't fit properly. I also passed along to my step-daughter quite a few still current and still-in-good-shape vegan (i.e. cotton or poly) items. She was moving to Spain, so I gave her lightweight sweaters and tops that I realized would work better in her climate than mine.  Almost all my purchases were successful. Like Angie, I don't count something as unsuccessful just because I don't wear it often -- not if the happiness quotient is high.  Among my most loved: my Rebecca MInkoff hobo. My watch. (These also feature in most worn items).  Most worn/ useful/ workhorse items: Franco Sarto sandal bootie, Fitflop sandal (for daily walks), Ecco sneaker, Aquatalia grey bootie, CoH denim crops and white denim crops, burgundy Dres.  Best statement items: Rag and Bone gilet, J. Crew pink jacket, Topshop red booties.  Least successful purchases: J. Crew floral A line silk skirt. (Reason: I can't style it to look less "prissy" or something. It always looks twee. Beautiful skirt, though.)  Denim vest: Wore it once. It was cheap, though. (Got at Winner's -- not the one pictured.) I think maybe it is just too boyish/ casual for my current style direction.  Topshop white sandals -- the style is just wrong somehow, though they are incredibly comfortable!!  Carla on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764083 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 17:47:42 +0000 Carla 1764083@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I actually have a picture of an outfit featuring 3 of my best purchases of 2016! Even though they are not real leather, the faux Rockstuds are my favourite new shoe. They are COMFORTABLE! The same can be said of the Anne Taylor kick crops. I got lots of wear out of them, and thy always felt good on. I would be looking forward to another year of wear if I hadn't stained them irreparably. I'm hoping they will be available agin this summer. The Zara jacket was an emotional, spur-of-the-moment purchase that seems to elevate any outfit and has become a wardrobe workhorse. Finally, the maroon bag (Rudsak/Atelier Noir) is a different style than what I usually gravitate towards, but has turned out to be the perfect bag for my workday. Perfect size, easy to carry, and with just the right combination and placement of pockets (internal and external) to accomodate the necessities! Thick, but soft leather and yummy colour! I've made a few mistakes with footwear, and an experiment with cropped tops that didn't work. The unsuccessful items have been passed on. merwoman on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764076 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 17:16:54 +0000 merwoman 1764076@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I hear you about grey sweaters UmmLila - actually make that grey anything! It will be no surprise that my absolutely favourite item is a pair of Aquatalia booties in a graphite colour. Photo does not do them justice. I love these booties so much - I'd gladly marry them. :-) Another fav is a pair of dangly earrings from BR. Such a surprise, since I was a non-jewellery kind of gal. These even make a lovely jingly sound. Love this leopard sweater and have worn it to death this fall. Almost forgot about a summer work horse - this lovely dress! (Amazing with the jingly earrings :-) Of course there were a few failures - a pair of pinkish flats that I bought while out of town. Brought them home and realized the pink is too muddy to work with what I had planned. Also fit is not the best. Funny how most of my fails involve footwear. Another failure is this neonish sweater form GAP - it was cheap and cheerful, but quality and fit (or lack of) have left it languishing. Aquamarine on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764066 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 16:51:50 +0000 Aquamarine 1764066@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Adding that I tend to give away or donate my least favorite or unsuccessful purchases because I can't bear to see them in my closet. Out of sight, out of mind. Aquamarine on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764061 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 16:42:14 +0000 Aquamarine 1764061@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My favorite purchase was AG slim straight jeans. In fact, I loved them so much I ran right out and purchased another pair in a different wash. I paid full price for both, and almost had a heart attack doing so, but hands down they are the most comfortable, flattering, and versatile denim I have ever had. I paid full price for both, which almost gave me a heart attack, but they are perfect. Anonymous on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764049 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 16:08:30 +0000 Anonymous 1764049@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My absolute FAVORITE purchase of the year was this tote.  I had wanted one for two full years (since 2014 NAS).  I finally purchased it in late, late 2016.  It IS everything the online commenters said it was.  I love it.   Special mention:  all things Kut from the Kloth and all things Vionic.   I can't think of a least favorite purchase (probably long since purged).  Once purged, completely gone from my memory.   Bonnie on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764033 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 15:35:08 +0000 Bonnie 1764033@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I purchased a lot of things that I love this year, but my favorite has to be my new handbag. I carry the same bag most days and my previous style was a backpack that was a bottomless pit - I love all of the zippered compartments of my new bag. I love the gray tunic from Gudrun because of the fabric, it's a blend of cotton and linen and drapes wonderfully. Most of my worst purchases were returned but I kept these plaid pants because they fit well and are really nice looking and well made. However, they draw too much attention to my hips. I agree with what lisap wrote about the EF harems. I like them but they are hard to style and no one else is wearing them. Angie on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764030 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 15:29:24 +0000 Angie 1764030@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ummlila, give the toffee cullottes another season - you might just love them next year.  At the risk of sounding smug, all my new purchases have worked out brilliantly. Of course, I wear some items more than others, but I don't consider the less worn purchases failures at all. You can't expect every item to be a workhorse.  That said, I do consider the belt and scarf below unsuccessful purchases. The scarf is an odd shape, and I feel too "cowgirl" when I tie it. It needs a wider neck and broader shoulder line to fill out the shape in a better way. (I LOVE looking at the scarf though). I can't pass it on. And the belt is too casual for my style. I keep on putting my old worn out gold belt on instead because I prefer the look.  JAileen on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764026 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 15:08:34 +0000 JAileen 1764026@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My purchases this year were mostly successful. I bought and returned a lot, though. A LOT! My climate has an overriding influence, and I need to keep in mind that mild temps are fleeting. It's primarily HOT or COLD. So even though I love the silver oxfords I bought, for example, I've only worn them a few times, whereas boots and sandals get a real workout. I bought several pairs of crops at Kohls this spring and wore them to death. I also bought a few pairs of new sandals. I felt I looked decent when I was visiting my mother at the hospital and rehab this summer. I was able to put together nice looking outfits that were appropriate and comfortable. cindysmith on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764024 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 14:59:15 +0000 cindysmith 1764024@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My least successful purchases have been all of the random cheap knit tops I bought for stuff like yardwork. I wound up hating them, and/or they pulled and such. I'm much happier when I just wear something I love that isn't necessarily a "nice" or "dressy" piece. Since I'm into post-apocalyptic, dystopian stuff, it's no worries if it gets a stain or snag LOL My most successful purchases have been the shoes I bought this year. I finally broke down and started buying flat shoes instead of heels. I love heels, but they just ain't practical out here in the country. I've bought a lot of shoes this year, and they've all worked out pretty freaking well. I'm thinking of a major closet reorganization and purge sometime soon based on lack of proper storage. Storage won't be an issue once we build our small house, but do I really want to move and store stuff that's just "OK"? All these threads about year-end style-review and successful purchases and style goals have me thinking about it on a deep level, which makes it a perfect time to purge and organize. always trying on "What was your most and least successful purchase of the year?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-was-your-most-and-least-successful-purchase-of-the-year#post-1764015 Fri, 30 Dec 2016 14:43:09 +0000 always trying 1764015@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My red ankle tie pumps, patch jeans, three pairs, black, grey and dark blue Bandalino stretch jeans.  most recent a pair of Earl jeans with decorated bottoms. Back in the spring a pair of wider leg linen pants, and my silver block heel sandals. The booties-Softspots and the Dolce Vita.