So, I did a big closet purge this weekend. Overall, I seem to be going for a sleeker, simpler, more streamlined look. Some of this is undoubtedly due to Angie's influence and current trends, but I also think it's the next step in my own fashion evolution from boho casual to arty/eclectic. I'm still sorting through a few items, but here are my observations so far:

I don’t need any more skirts. The only skirts I'm wearing these days are my VC midis (one navy, one black, one b/w stripe) and my Bailey 44 diagonal striped one. I've always found skirt/top proportions difficult to manage (especially since I don't like to fully tuck), plus I don't like cutting myself in half visually with skirts (the midis work because they're longer). I much prefer the long look (and ease) of a dress, so I'm going to simplify life and not clutter my closet with more skirts that will probably end up orphans.

Dresses are my favorite go-to for easy dressy outfits and some of mine need upgrades. I demoted some old poly blend dresses to my holding closet in hopes of finding replacements. Since dresses are my favorite go-to for events I want to focus on having a good quality selection of them.

I no longer feel comfortable in shorter hemlines. Even thought my legs are perfectly presentable, I just don't like shorter hemlines these days. The midi length feels more natural, so I'm going with it. Dresses have to be at least 37" for me to even consider them. 38-40+" is even better.

I want to focus more on silk and natural fiber items. This is especially true when it comes to blouses/tops. I just don't like to be hot and sweaty, and some polyester blends just don't breathe enough!

I’m more and more attracted to avant-garde layers and asymmetrical/architectural pieces. I'm loving the avant-garde layers Angie showed us the other day and would like to move my wardrobe more in this direction. Better, fewer, bolder is my new motto when it comes to acquiring new pieces!

I strongly dislike stiff fabrications and overly structured pieces. There is something about stiff fabrications and structure that makes me feel constrained, conservative, and frumpy. Give me fluidity and ease!

I need to find some new ways to incorporate modern classic items (like button shirts) in creative ways. Modern classic pieces are valuable pieces, but I feel frumpy if I wear too many of them at once, or don't break them up with some more edgy pieces. Need to do some experimenting.

I don't need any more modern classic items for now. (This is related to above) I've got plenty of button shirts, black pants, and jackets. I need to work with what I already have, rather than add to my collection.

I've come to accept that the semi-tuck is a useful fashion trick. I've dragged my heels on tucking all the while I've been on YLF, but I've finally come around to accepting the semi-tuck as a neat compromise. I bought a couple of belts and did some experimenting over the weekend. Prepare to be shocked!

I always seem to need more modern, fluid tees and sleeveless, fluid (preferably silk) layering tops. This is where I plan to put my focus for spring/summer shopping. I'm very PPP when it comes to tops and just never seem to have enough.

Many of my items are “almost” right but not quite right and need to be either upgraded, replaced, or altered. The replacements and upgrades might take some time, but I have quite a little selection of items to be tweaked…and an appointment with my seamstress tomorrow.

I need more exciting/edgy shoes. OK, I do have my fab Okalas, my black moto boots, and my VC sandals, but other than these I have too many loafers and safe-looking pumps. Going forward, I want my feet to be more fashion forward! Having modern footwear can update your whole look, IMHO

So, that's it for now! More later….

Thanks for reading!