Fit and style goals as a reference point

When there is a query about how an outfit looks, or K/R a clothing item, I often feel adrift due to not knowing anything about where the poster is trying to go but that that could be important. I realized that was a big problem in my own wardrobe collecting and I learned a lot from Angie's blog archives and some from WNTW on trying to have some focus. Also, having some fab outfits for "reference" as to why they seem to work and whether I want to duplicate them or say, like this but head more in this other direction. Then I might also be adventurous and say, I look best in this, but by doggies I want to wear some of that, regardless.

I think body type and fit come first because even though the style objectives may be classic or romantic or whatever, we may wish to interpret them for our body types, and most people want to look "good" as a basic condition. Let's say you love boho but don't look so good in loose stuff (not sure this is a good example, but it's a start, and boho is a short word! ). So the question is not just, does this look good on me, but could be, I want to really dress for my body type but I want to express my style in a boho type. So you might wear more fitted things but interpret the boho through prints, colors and accessories and very carefully selected area of "looseness."

So is fun and useful if when we get more about what a person thinks is her "best" or go-to looks, what direction she's going, whether a certain item or outfit is directed at that or is for fun or experimenting, whether a wardrobe item is a "place-holder" and need to be styled and utilized for now, and so forth. Let's say there's a waist-surrendering blouse that is not the most flattering in a particular photo, but then it might turn out that it is specifically to jump on that trend, or for a comfort-outfit or to try a new color or something completely off kilter from, does it flatter my body type to perfection. So the purpose of an item or outfit can matter as much or more than the first visual impression, but it might be important to know what the poster really wants from the feedback.

These criteria and details have been really great in some of Angie's posts about her intentional wardrobe acquisitions, dressing clients, and so forth. I'm trying to learn more about how to tell what issue or situation I'm trying to solve or meet in my own style and wardrobe and then at some point may be able to help someone else.

13 years ago

Vicki

(website)

Veteran

Good points, Unfrumped, and I think we're all learning as we go, getting more comfortable with our own personal journeys. I know I've made a few mistakes in my purchases, at times, but I think I'm beginning to understand what I need to add to my wardrobe so that I begin to have a closet that serves me well, whether it's for casual wear, smart casual or something when I'm going out.

I know the WIWs that people post have been most helpful to me and it's often their struggles and successes that teach me the most important lessons, personally. I admire these women so much and I'm so grateful for their openness and honesty.

I agree. I like when a K/R post will be specific rather than just, do you like this? It is so much more helpful to ask, how is the ankle fit on these sandals, or is the top length alright with this skirt, or does this jacket work with my shoulder line, etc.
Also, sometimes it's hard to separate what we like for ourselves vs what we like for that poster. Angie is very good at it - but it's a hard thing for a lot of us to do.

Gaylene

I rarely comment on K/R threads because I have so much difficulty determining what the person wants. On some threads, I get the impression that the person has fallen in love with an item, or trend, and needs/wants a bit encouragement to jump in and go for it. Even if the question seems fairly straight forward, as in "which size should I buy", it's not always easy to judge the fit from a photograph, coupled with the fact that some people like a much closer fit than others. Still other posters want to know about whether something will fit in with their style goals, or if an item is worth the cost, or if they ought to wait for something better...

Given all that, I don't think I'm alone in only commenting on threads where I like what I see. If I don't like it, or think it looks awful, I'm really hesitant to make any comment and just move along to the next thread. I really admire those commentators who can offer suggestions to tweak an outfit.

I sometimes feel quite guilty that I don't post WIW pictures because I've learned so much from those forum members who do post and the resulting discussions. Their pictures have really helped me analyze my own outfits.

Caro in Oz

I'm fairly new here & haven't started posting photos yet (working up to it gradually lol). When I do post I will want honest & specific feedback.

I joined this forum because I can see Angie & a lot of other members give kind, honest, helpful feedback & are able to do this for lots of styles even ones they don't wear.

If someone posts photos with a do you like this? I usually wouldn't comment unless I did like the item. IMO asking "Do you like this?" is asking for some kind of reassurance, which we all need particularly at the beginning of our journey.

deb

I find that posting pictures has helped me so much. But, you have a good point about where my mind set is. I need to be more specific about the guidance I am looking for.

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