LOVE this discussion. So fascinating!
Cilleena - we're soul mates! Everything you said! Smells & noises. (My husband is a sound designer, and sometimes I hear things he doesn't even hear!) I can "turn it on" in situations when I have to. I used to work in a small department where we had frequent meetings, and my supervisor told me I had to contribute more if I wanted to get good reviews. It was torture! Sometimes I have to socialize or network for career things, and I HATE it so much. Even meeting the fabulous YLF ladies required me to "turn it on." I needed a whole day to recover - no slight to any of the ladies, but I was pushed out of my comfort zone!
I also don't like my hands being wet. When I'm cooking and have to wash vegies, wash the cutting board, etc., I'm constantly drying my hands. I also don't like being wet right out of the shower - have to dry off right away. I love being IN the water, though. (And I'm not OCD - just sensitive!)
As for how it relates to fashion - my coloring is high contrast (dark hair, pale skin) so I struggle with what (I think) looks good on me. Imogen (Inside Out Style) did a great series about finding your contrast level, and I often think of that when I dress.
I like some contrast - I think of my style as "Simple Drama." Sounds like a bit of a contradiction, no? For instance, I like a simple, simple white tee shirt with a black jacket over it. I get the contrast, but it's simple. Sometimes I think I should just go full force for an entire black and white wardrobe, but I can hear Angie weeping even as I type that.
I really do not like prints on me. I think with my crazy curly hair, I have enough going on - I don't need anything else added. I have made many mistakes this past year buying prints, trying to push myself to try new things, but in the end, I don't wear them. I've decided if I do buy a (subtle) print, it needs to have black in it - I guess that's my anchor?
I'm getting back to solids, neutrals, gray, navy, and B&W! Boring to most others, but makes me feel good.