YouLookFab Forum » Topic: WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sun, 26 Apr 2026 19:47:58 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php shiny on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284978 Sun, 22 Jun 2014 17:21:33 +0000 shiny 1284978@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Quick addition, regarding scarves: these are in abundance at thrift stores! I always check the scarf rack first. It's a fun way to play around and experiment with different colors and patterns.  shiny on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284975 Sun, 22 Jun 2014 17:17:56 +0000 shiny 1284975@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi Alana, I'm afraid I'm not familiar with your wardrobe so take my recommendations with a grain of salt. I adore handbags and have a collection, but there's always ONE that gets the most use each season. As already suggested, it's the shape and size that is more important than the color -- the most-used bag is one that is large enough to carry a scarf, cardigan, wallet, sunglasses, etc, etc, without being too large as to overwhelm my 5'0 height. With a conveniently accessible pocket for my cell phone, and straps that are comfortable to wear over the shoulder (do not slip off), lightweight enough that it doesn't kill my back (i.e., no heavy hardware), and structured yet also a bit slouchy to conform comfortably to my body. Those requirements are more important to me than the color, but yes, I tend to opt for a bag of this type in a "go with everything" neutral. For this past Fall/Winter, it was a black bag with gold accents. For Spring/Summer, it's usually a bright/optic white bag, but this year it's a soft blush pink Coach bag. I'm wearing a LOT of black & white lately, or navy and white, and that blush pink bag adds some color but it also functions almost as if it's a neutral, since the color is subtle.  My second-most used bag this Spring/Summer is an optic white Kate Spade bag which is quite structured, smaller, and more polished/lady like.  When considering bags, hardware is important. If you wear a lot of gold jewelry, go with gold hardware. If silver, silver hardware. If both, pewter or bronze works best.  As for pedicures, I find they last a lot longer than manicures, which I usually chip within days if not hours. Whereas pedicures can last me for weeks and weeks (especially if always wearing open-toed shoes), so it's well worth the time & investment, tar as I'm concerned. I like to have fun with the color on my toes and have in the past done all sorts of crazy colors - from neon green to yellow to dark blue/nearly black to gray to black to turquoise to baby blue to nude to bright white. I tend to stay away from the classics like red, as it just seems too... expected? Especially for someone my age (48). I want to have more fun than that! This season my past two pedicures have been orchid - which is kind of a grown-up version of Barbie pink - and I love it so much I'll probably stick with this color all summer. It goes nicely with the blush bag. One tip when choosing pedicure colors is to consider whether your skin has blue/red or orange undertones. My skin has blue/red undertones. If I was to do a coral or orange (which are colors that near my face look deathly), I'd look for a shade that has a blue undertone to it. Regardless, I once threw all the rules out and did an orange that was the color of a safety cone. It was fun! As for other accessories, what about scarves? I find scarves are essentials to my wardrobe as they add so much interest and can transform the same LBD into a totally different outfit and nobody is the wiser. Even in summer, a lightweight scarf can work, especially in air-conditioning. At the moment I am on the hunt to add a few more lightweight scarves myself.  As for shoes, if your feet are fussy, this will be the trickier item to add. Don't settle for anything less than comfort AND versatility and style. Wish I had better suggestions here but I'm struggling in this category myself lately. Though I am finding I am practically living in the lace-up cage heel wedges I purchased at the beginning of spring. They are quite comfortable, especially because I can adjust the laces when my feet swell in the heat.  Hope that helps - and one final note, I just wanted to say that I LOVE your hair! I wish mine would wave like that, by that I mean, predictably wave and not just frizz.  DonnaF on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284444 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 22:48:37 +0000 DonnaF 1284444@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I wear a lot of black, white, and gray, and my new cobalt/royal blue clutch goes with just about everything.  My acid(?) green cross-body seems to function as a neutral as well.  I think my new radiant orchid large hobo from Target will go with everything except a few reddish plum tops.  One of the style how-to bloggers, maybe Bridgette Raes (?) has an article on how colored (vs. black) footwear and/or bag can make a huge difference in style and that non-black is less limiting than one might think.  Her illustrations were quite a revelation to me. Bags are so personal, and I think what works or doesn't is also related to body size and shape.  For example, DD and I are close in height -- short -- so we have to make sure the size of a bag doesn't overwhelm us.  I have a tall friend who is long of leg and broad in the hips, so a tiny bag on her would look just as bad.  DD is interested in my Target hobo, but as I was telling her that the straps sometimes slip off my shoulder I realized that might not be an issue at all for her because her hips are narrower and her shoulders are broader. Have fun buying earrings!  I just grew out my hair to cover my ears, and now my earrings can't be seen at all, not even the dangly ones due to the angled front.  :(  Salt and peppery hair + glasses means rather a lot going on anyway.  I've moved on to bracelets and necklaces.  Marley on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284289 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 17:31:24 +0000 Marley 1284289@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Handbags?  I'd go with a black and white bag.  It would really "pop" with your black and white clothing - and would add a subtle pattern mix when you wore a patterned top and carried your black and white handbag! There is a "magic" bag that several of us forum members got last summer/fall and we found that it practically worked with everything in our wardrobes!  I''m attaching a couple of my threads that show how I used it.  Rae, Una, and Goldenpig also have the bag so you might want to check out some of their threads as well.  (I'm not recommending buying this specific bag - I'm just recommending buying a black and white bag - they are easy to find!) Also, attaching a pic of our southern CAL Shoptoberfest handbags from last fall.  Just look at all of the variety!  You really can't go wrong if you get what sings to your heart! <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/on-the-cusp-of-a-capsule">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....ptoberfest</a> ETA:  Hmmm . . . I can't figure out why only one link will attach to this.  I'll keep working on it so see if I can get them linked up for you! Suz on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284284 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 17:23:18 +0000 Suz 1284284@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Alana, you are already such a wonderful member of this forum. Your attitude is the best! I agree with all the pedicure love. I don't get one very often -- maybe three or four times a year -- but whenever I do, I tell myself I need to do it more. It's great! Your feet will feel so much happier. And they will look a lot prettier, too. I would probably wait until after the camping trip to do it. Then again, if your feet will be on view, maybe now is the time.  For an extra bag, I love the idea of a pewter metallic for you - it's a very versatile neutral that would work with your wardrobe and your hair. But I agree with those who say it is very important to go and try them out. Handbag preferences are so personal and our needs vary.  Footwear: Think about your activities and outfits. What have you been needing? A lot of us Canadians tend to have two kinds of footwear only: Boots, and sandals. (This was me when I joined YLF, by the way.) It makes sense, when you think of it -- it is practical in our climate of extremes. And surprising how regular closed toe shoes do not necessarily have a long season where we live! At the same time, a closed toe shoe is versatile and crosses seasons better than a sandal.  I would do as LadyWone suggests and go with your heart -- as well as with your fussy feet. How about trying a lot on and figuring out which brands work for your feet and then going from there? You can also start a separate thread about this explaining your fit issues. You will get many suggestions.  Jewellery: I am not a jewellery girl and never really have been. Small stud earrings and a cuff with the occasional pendant are about it for me. But lots of women derive enormous joy from their baubles. I think it really depends what kind of person you are. If you are happy with the status quo for now, no need to change that.  lyn67 on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284283 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 17:22:54 +0000 lyn67 1284283@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm not a true bag girl, as I am too lazy  to swap my bags daily, but would love me a happy orange bag! (I don't own one, but I have a clutch I love in orange). I also like a white/light grey bag/or tan for summer. And a coral one:-) For winter it's one black with textures, and a yellow one for fall-))). You'll never look back, again:-) JAileen on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284270 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 17:01:20 +0000 JAileen 1284270@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I buy most of my handbags at thrift stores! I agree with others' recommendations of a neutral color. To me, most important is the bag's configuration of strap/handles, pockets, zippers, etc. You'll have to figure out what works best for you. Ask your hair stylist or a friend for a recommendation for a pedicure. If you're going to be rough on your feet on your camping trip, then I'd wait. Mine costs $35 plus tip, and lasts about a month. I love having sparkly toes! LoriFLA on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284245 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 16:24:11 +0000 LoriFLA 1284245@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think a pedi before the trip is fine, especially if you will be wearing sandals.  If you'll spend a lot of time in hiking boots or sneakers, I would say to wait. I live in Florida and am in sandals for most of the year so pedicures are essential for me.  I get them monthly. I love the way they make my feet look and feel, and feel more confident when wearing sandals.   I am not a big handbag person or an accessory person.  I stick with earrings but have been branching out.  I used to feel self-conscious wearing necklaces or bracelets.  Now, I think they're fun and like experimenting.  My advice:  Don't settle on accessories.  They don't have to be expensive but you should really love what you choose and wear them with confidence.  If you're shy about accessories, I think an oversized watch and stylish sunglasses are a safe way to accessorize (they are functional pieces) while also giving your outfit that extra pizazz.  If I had to choose an extra handbag color for summer it would be a metallic.  A muted metallic, with a low sheen, nothing too shiny.  Match the color to the metal you wear most of the time.   Alana in Canada on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284240 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 16:17:31 +0000 Alana in Canada 1284240@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Lyn* --Thanks for the laugh! :)  The scrub? There's a scrub? Oh my. (I have a jar of saltscrub--I am using it to exfoliate my knees! (Winters are very long here.)) carter on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284223 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 16:00:30 +0000 carter 1284223@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sounds like you're all sorted on bags and shoes, so I'll just add my 2 cents to the pedicure question. I go every 2.5-3 weeks in the sandal season (about 8 mos for me) and every 5-6 weeks in the colder months. For me, pedicures tend to stay looking sandal-presentable for about 4 weeks, so I could stretch to this in the warm months, but I get my fingernails done every 2.5-3 weeks year round, so I prefer to get the mani pedi at the same time. (In the Winter, every other visit is just a mani). For the pedi itself, getting the dead skin off and walking out with a pretty color on my toes is great, but the absolute best part of the pedi for me is the salt or sugar scrub. So amazing! Even better than the usually longer massage part for me. The scrub isn't generally part of the basic pedi, so if you really want to know what all the fuss is about (IMHO), ask for the service that includes the scrub. In Atlanta, I pay $42 US, which includes scrub, mask, extra massage, plus the basics. It lasts about an hour for this one. Enjoy! lyn* on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284216 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 15:44:51 +0000 lyn* 1284216@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Purses - WHAT YOU ONLY LIVE WITH ONE BAG? HOW DO YOU LIVE WITH ONLY ONE BAG? Just kidding; just saw your comments above! I only live out of one bag at at time and it's a bight coloured one too (cobalt!) I'd recommend a neutral as well - you never know when you need something to go with something and have it clash with your bright beauty! Also; consider the way you carry your bag - if you're a car person, a cross-body is less important, for example. Pedicures - I am paranoid of people touching my feet. I do my own feet, but everyone else seems to like them. Good luck - I hear there are some good Groupons floating around too; but I'd Yelp the places before I buy a Groupon. Shoes - Metallic sandals first! PRETTTTTTTYYYY. I'm easily distractible! Also; some summer shoes are starting to go on sale!<div> Piercing - I got my ears pierced when I was 21; I must say, it was definitely funner now that they have holes. Glad to know I'm not the only one who got them done when I was "older"!  </div> Alana in Canada on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284210 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 15:39:12 +0000 Alana in Canada 1284210@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ What a wonderful supportive group you are! Not one of you said, "what, you never...." or "one bag? I could never live with just one bag...." You are all helpful and supportive and encouraging...thank you. Purses: I love the idea of trying out different shapes and sizes. I should definitely do that. Too funny--most of you recommended neutral--and LadyWone wants me to have colour! That's great! As I will likely thrift such an expensive option, I will likely need to be flexible--especially as I will be picky on size and fit. (By the by, the handles on this bag are too short for me to ever wear on my shoulder, so it is always a handbag. Doesn't bother me at all which surprised me as before this I always wore cross body bags. Shoes: LadyWone--you are right--I most definitely do have a checklist! I am actually a secret shoe lover. I have always, always loved shoes...but I have also always had the fussiest feet imaginable. (I had plantar faciitis for five years and I wore nothing but runners--one pair a year (or more).) Anyway, I'm not doing that anymore. So, I think what I want to say is that I like the checklist to reign me in from all the wild shoe shopping I would do otherwise. I am very fortunate in that I hate shopping. Pedicure--oooh this is going to be exciting. Thanks for the suggestion to look at yelp. I will ask at work, too. That's an incredible range of pricing! I'm glad I asked. retailgirl on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284090 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 12:44:59 +0000 retailgirl 1284090@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am a low maintenance person as far as beauty goes, but I get a pedicure every four weeks, year round. It is so worth it! It lasts the whole four weeks and it is so relaxing. I go to a small local salon. I've tried other places but I like the vibe where I go, the price is right and they do a good job. Just look for cleanliness and you want a technician who is gentle but thorough on those calluses! kkards on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284085 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 11:54:54 +0000 kkards 1284085@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Aww,a few things near and dear to me, bags, shoes and pedicures. Pedicures first. Do treat yourself. I find it one of the most relaxing things in the world. For me, The painting of my nails is actually the least important part, the cleaning off the old rough skin etc is worth the price (in the winter I will get a pedicure with no polish). I you can, check out on line review ( try yelp), and make sure to look for recent reviews, as in many nail salons,turn over can high. You want to make sure the salon looks and feels clean,and that they clean each station after the client is done. Bags-- to me,equally important to the color, is the size, shape, and weight. I'm going to suggest you go into a department Store, take the stuffing out of all the bags that appeal to you, and put your stuff in and try them out. This will help you figure out what size and shape work for you. Just make sure you remember to remove all your stuff when your done! Nothing worse than realizing an hour later that you left your sunglasses in the bag you where trying. Once you have a general idea of shape etc, you can focus on color. Shoes- this is a tricking one. If you are looking to get the most bang for your buck, I would agree a loafer or closed toe shoe would make sense, since you could wear it into the fall. But if you are looking for love, it sounds to me like you really want some sandals, and I'd say so for it. Jewelry -- no help there, as it's not part of my style Hope this helped. Astrid on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284064 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 10:48:21 +0000 Astrid 1284064@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think that purse (even if it's orange and not cognac) should work with everything in your wardrobe right now. I think having another neutral colored bag to change things up might be nice, but I wouldn't get a black one because you alerady have a lot of black with your clothes and it's summer! If you want a second bag, how about a metallic/silver/grey? Great for summer and it would go nicely with your hair. For the shoes I would think about temperatures you usually have in your summers and whether you've gotten cold feet wearing your sandals in the past. If yes a closed shoe might be helpful. Doesn't have to be a loafer, you can pick any style that you love, I agree with Ladywone here. Just make sure it goes with your shorts and skirt as well as with long pants. I don't wear a lot of jewelry either, but I love my stylish oversized watch. If you regularly wear a watch that might be something to look into. I have no idea about pedicures, so nothing to say to that point. Ledonna N. on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284048 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 10:04:48 +0000 Ledonna N. 1284048@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am happy to be on this style journey with you. You really look fab in your new fit and your wonderful thrifted find. I love the thrift store so, score for you. Purse -get another color your wardrobe is very neutral so color will pep it up. Pedicure - go after your trip, for your first time have a professional it is always a treat and don't be embarrassed for all the old skin that will be removed. My first time I was shocked but is was the most wonderful experience. Price range from 25-90 dollars. I like to go in the morning Monday -Thursday it is not crowded and they pay you more attention unless you go to one you have an appointment at. Now more money does not always mean the best, use local and recent reviews online. I've been to high end and midrange. I like the midrange myself. They can last up to 2 weeks. Footwear -Go with your heart it sounds like you have this preconceived check list going on, stop it ok :). There is no wrong choice. Are you even a loafer woman? Think about what makes your heart go pitter patter and remember if you go shoe shopping at the store make sure it is at the end of the day because our feet swell and are at the true size during this time. Jewelry - I'm glad to hear about your great experience getting your ears pierced. Now if you want accessories maybe you could try scarfs or other jewelry also from the thrift. This is a great way to try out things without spending a lot of money also all thrift stores have a half price or sale day go online and find out sale days you will get more bang for your buck. Or maybe you will find you are a minimalist and what you have you love. Thank you again this is so much fun. When we take care of ourselves I find that life is better. I hope you are having just as much fun as I am watching your transformation. Blessings. froggiebecky on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284037 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 07:57:12 +0000 froggiebecky 1284037@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi Alana,  If your purse is bright orange, I, too, would recommend a neutral one. I'm not really one to advise on purses, as I'm not really a bag girl, and I've only got 2--a black one and a brown clutch. (and a beaded clutch, but I almost never use it).  Pedicures--I get them. I think they're fun, they feel good, and I get them even in winter to pamper myself. I find the prices tend to run as Adelfa said--$18-$80. Even within the salon, you can have levels of service..I tend to go one up from the most basic, and skip the ones that involve paraffin wax because I don't like it. Also, get whatever colour pleases you. At least for toes, I think there's a little more lee-way in painting your nails with wacky colours if you choose.  On loafers v. sandals…are there places you get cold, or feel like your current sandals aren't appropriate? Would you wear them into autumn for dressier occasions, or would you be wishing for closed-toe shoes? I'd make your decision based on that.  Good luck…and shopping for accessories is fun! :)   Alana in Canada on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284020 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 07:12:50 +0000 Alana in Canada 1284020@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks Adelfa! I want to mention that the purse is actually orange: bright, bright orange. Sorry, the lighting is terrible in this hallway. (I now know my next house painting project: this hallway! I just finished the living room.) Why loafers? Well, I don't know, exactly, except other than my winter boots, and the runners I mentioned, I have no closed toe shoes I like to wear outdoors. (I do wear slipper shoes indoors, but I like to keep them just for indoors). But you know, the loafers should be good for fall, too, so obviously I need something that ill span for both seasons. And then, there's the troublesome issue of those white pants I bought.... Adelfa on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284012 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 06:35:08 +0000 Adelfa 1284012@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi Alana! Here are some thoughts: Your current purse's cognac color is very nice with the whites and blacks you wear. For your next purse, you need to make a decision whether you want another neutral or a color. I recommend a neutral. I wear my black bag a lot even in the summer. I also wear white and bone. I have a cobalt blue bag that gets a fair amount of use as well. For me cobalt is a neutral. As for the pedicure, I'd wait till after your trip. If you aren't rough on your feet (walking on the beach, gardening barefoot) a pedicure can last a month. They are definitely worth the money if you get them from a lower cost place. They are worth it because they spiff up the condition of your feet and toes so that they are things of beauty, quite apart from the polish. Here in Los Angeles I've seen prices between $18 and $80. What you're looking for is a place that specializes in manis and pedis (as opposed to say a hair salon that also offers them). This place should have several pedicure basins and often will function on a no-appointment basis. Find out the cost and use your intuition about the look of the place and how they respond to your inquiries, to decide. I have had incredibly good luck with these places. If you don't succeed try another one. When I moved the first place I tried did a good job, but I didn't like the rushed atmosphere. The one I have now is wonderful (it's the $18 place). I am treated like a queen and the work is meticulous. And the quality of my manicure is way superior to the salon one I used to get. GET THE SANDALS! Why do you need a loafer? Unless your summers are quite cool you will get a lot more use out of the sandals. My summers are cool because I'm so close to the shore, and I rarely reach for a fully covered shoe. (My Okalas are technically closed toe, but they're open everywhere else!)  Okay, those are my thoughts! I'm so excited by your enthusiasm! Alana in Canada on "WIW: Can We Talk (Accessories)?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-can-we-talk-accessories#post-1284000 Sat, 21 Jun 2014 05:53:52 +0000 Alana in Canada 1284000@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hello fabbers, I think it's time to talk accessories (besides, you've seen my entire wardrobe (except the work wear) now! 1. Me and my purse. I got it at a thrift store.  I wore this outfit  to hang laundry and go out with dh. 2. I'd packed my flowy cardigan for the chilly theatre and pulled it on and wore it home. We had to walk a few blocks and it was breezy!  So, if I were to consider a second purse, what colour should it be?  I would like a pedicure. I have never had one. Should I wait and get after our camping vacation--or get it now? How long do they last? How much do they cost (though I suppose that varies locally.) What should I look for in a shop which offers pedicures? Would I just be better off getting someone I know to do it for me (ie not worth the money?) Footwear--I would dearly love some pretty metal sandals, but I think a loafer or closed toe shoe should come first? What do you think? These sandals and a pair of white runners are my only decent summer shoes. (And I am undecided about wearing the runners for anything but a workout.) Jewellery--well, I think I'm OK with it for now--I mostly just wear earrings (and I only got my ears peirced two summers sgo. Best decision of my life. I wish I hadn't waited so long!) Thanks. Comments, suggestions, etc, welcome. PS: This computer drops w's like mad, so if a word looks weird, that's why.