Closet Edit and style shift 1 - YouLookFab Forum

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Dressing

About: A Recent Closet Edit

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Closet Edit and style shift 1

Jenni NZ

Veteran

I've been wondering about a style shift all year. I think I've spent 8 years wearing iterations of tunics with layering tops underneath, with the first one bought 2010 after my weight gain not long before that time. I think these started to be in fashion about then, or perhaps before.They were an example of "long over lean"- good explanation in an Already Pretty post here: https://www.alreadypretty.com/.....er-lean-2/ There is mention of this look on the forum for many years, back to about 2010 as well.
I gradually culled some of these tunics this year and there are 6 autumn/winter/spring ones left. This cobalt one is a fave for its colour, from 2010. Worn over 30 times ( exact numbers not known). I gave it a spin today, wonder if it feels a bit little-girly for me now? The rust layering top 2012, 40 wears, is maybe getting tired, and the rust cardy (which I didn't wear today, just tried on) is not as flattering as my new bronze one. I was going to cull the rust cardy 2012, 53 wears and my husband said I shouldn't: "Because you've worn it so much, why get rid of it?" I wore the bright Scope brand jacket today instead, 2015, 35 wears.The cobalt boots are Beau Coops 2015, 71 wears. And the black Max ponte/leatherette pants 2014 have not been worn so much this year- 85 wears before this year, only 6 this year. They must be dropping from a 10. I wore other straight cut pants this year more.
What do you all think?
Pic 1 yesterday's haircut, earrings donated by second DD.
Pics 2/3 tunic and layering top alone.
Pic 4 rust cardigan
Pics 5/6 bright jacket
Pic 7 boots.

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Dressing

16 replies

Latest reply was from Angie

Joy

Veteran

At this point I would not buy any new items in this silhouette as it sounds like you are ready to move on. You might say that this is the very last season for these pieces (if that is how you feel) and do some thinking about the next leg of your style journey. It may take some experimenting.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

I love these colours on you, Jenni, and how amazing to have cobalt boots! It sounds as if you have got lots of wear from these items.

I'm curious about what direction you see yourself going? Is it a change in silhouette you are after or something else in addition?

Jenni NZ

Veteran

Thanks Suz I think I still want to do some slightly longer tops but interchange some with more cropped tops and higher waisted pants. The longer tops would be all-in-one not a layering top and a tunic, I think. More streamlined to wear ( without a jacket) just a top and pants rather than a layering top, a tunic and pants. Two items not 3, less distracting to the eye?

Jane

Veteran

(Is it your new walk in wardrobe in the background? it looks superb!)

I think I might think about the silhouette as Suz says.

I liked the balance of the cardigan with the feathers bought to your silhouette in a previous post as it seemed to bring the focus to your face. I like your earring collection which your lively pixie hair is perfect for.

Jenni NZ

Veteran

Thanks Jane! Yes that is the new wardrobe- that is its first pic! We are not fully moved in yet ( the new house is in the back yard of the old house, not far to move things) but have started moving items. I am trying to edit out holding zone and sentimental items as well as my true wardrobe. Having some success.
Yes I think my earrings are very important. Daughter Elise had gone off those ones and knew I liked orange and cobalt together. If I edit out parts of this outfit I will still like those colours together.

Sal

Veteran

I still think this is a good look on you but it is also fun to change things up. I agree a long sleeve top rather than a tunic over a top is a bit cleaner in line.

I like this best with the rust cardigan - and I adore the earrings and the blue boots. And am jealous of the wardrobe.

I have started washing my winter woolies to put away in storage and plan to get our the high summer items soon (I don't have that many and it is not quite the weather yet).

I like the rust cardigan and think it is a trendy colour that suits you - nice with blacks, blues, denims and even khaki. I am short of a cardigan now and am feeling the wardrobe hole!!

Jessikams

(website)

Veteran

I’ve just been reading about Nepali metalwork which often uses turquoise and red coral- similar to your color combo! Very pretty.

I came very late to the long over lean combo because when it arose I was living in a hot climate- shorts and dresses, no leggings or pants for years. Now I do long over lean for travel or lounge but not so often for “dressing to go out” as, like you, I fear it is getting a bit tired or out of fashion. It sure is easy though!

Jenni NZ

Veteran

Thanks Sal, Neil will like that you think I should keep the rust cardi! It is a perfect colour with the rust top. I am still not sure. We did a huge hospice shop donation today, 7 big bags of clothes, books, towels, placemats etc some from as long ago as my 21st. I'm gathering another bag of "clothing bin" worn out stuff too ( they recycle for rags as well).
And thanks Jessikams, dressing this way is indeed easy. I don't intend to abandon it altogether!

Bijou

Veteran

Woo Hoo - Look at You in your Amazing New HOUSE!!!

So bright and airy and a magic wardrobe too. Love it! I hope the shoes are well catered for in this new arrangement.

Time to say goodbye to these. I think your newer purchases are more stylish and if you keep these, it means you don't get to enjoy the new items so much. I prefer the bronze cardigan over the rust, and the reason to get rid of it is BECAUSE you have worn it so much. Don't worry my husband is similarly sentimental.

Kathie

Veteran

Wow! Lovely new closet! You seem ready for a style change. I too, have been wondering how much more longevity “long over lean” will have. Or perhaps it’s become a modern classic? I like your idea of one-piece items, as an evolution from layering top and sleeveless tunic. What about longer cardigans, like Fridays style inspiration post? Cobalt is such a good color for you, so I’d keep that it mind as your style evolves.

Staysfit

Veteran

Wow! You have a great new walk in closet! It’s huge and it looks well designed! I love your colorful clothing. I think a closet edit is the perfect time to think about style shifts. I can see how your idea for change would update your look but also continue to align with your creative use of color and pattern. I’m not sure that three pieces are necessarily less busy than two, but perhaps the use of only two pieces is more in keeping with causing less ecological impact from the clothing we wear. One less piece per day means fewer items worn overall. I typically see the third piece as a cardigan or blazer meant as a layer for warmth, and I tend to use my neutrals for these items which means that I can use the same cardigan and blazer across multiple outfits. I rarely use the third piece as an outfit specific piece. My work setting has variable temperatures in each room making layers an asset. Do you wear a lab coat when working? If I did, I would probably dispense with my third layer.

Cardiff girl

Veteran

What a fab new walk in wardrobe!I .No wonder you are feeling a style shift coming on ,one has to live up to the new closet!Dont lose your love of colour and general joie de vivre that you express through your clothes though will you?Love those blue boots.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Cute haircut.

FWIW Jenni, I LIKE THE TUNIC LOOK ON YOU. It's fun and punchy, and suits your personality. These are fab looks.

Yes, we all need a style shift from time to time, don't we. By all means have fun exploring higher waists and shorter tops. Bring out your '80s side

Closet looks beautifully organized. FABULOUS.

Jenni NZ

Veteran

Thanks to all who replied. That's nice of you Angie to still like my tunic looks. I still have some others and will not get rid of all yet. I think I feel done with this particular one- I have other cobalt items that can go with the boots. Done with the orange top too but may keep the cardi a little longer, perhaps not much longer. You are right Bijou, if I'm wearing these I am not then wearing the newer stuff as much.
Fear not, I have enough shoe shelves for 48 pairs! I will photograph them when all shifted over.
Thank you Staysfit for thinking of my work. I don't wear a lab coat, and I generally take off any cardigan or jacket while actually examining people, as my arms feel freer. I am trying to be more sustainable but the main way is by not buying too much more stuff! I don't think I mind too much about two versus three items, just think two will look more streamlined. Cheers.

Mainelady

Veteran

Jenni NZ, congratulations on your new house and big, beautiful closet! Yes, now is a perfect time to decide what really deserves a space in your new home and closet. First, I have to say that I love the earrings and boots!! FAB! I like the long over lean style on you very much. I think your suggestion of keeping it long on top, with less layering is a great one. If you change up the style of the pants, fewer items on top will keep the eye from hopping from one piece to the next. I look forward to seeing what changes you make. Have fun!

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Jenni, I respect your feelings. If you are done with this tunic - NEXT