Hey! Thanks for the support! I'm chuffed that you could see beyond the murky iPad photos to understand what I'm aiming for!
Dianthus - I would rather cruise a department store and go into a change room with a dozen or more prospective items, than seek out one specific thing. Today's mall set-up and even the boutiques within the larger department stores don't provide the diversity I crave. Winners, with its many different designers-high and low, is like a mini department store or alternatively a budget fashion lab!
Suz - IMO modern classic is embraced by some, but a safe fall back for many. Since MC forms the backbone of many a wardrobe, there are proportionally more MC items available. That said, if I had selected the retro autumn coloured plaid corduroy flares (so tempted!), an A-line skirt with appliqués, and a waterfall sweater - it would have been a boho capsule. Fun, but maybe not so appropriate for my work environment!
Unfrumped - we are kindred spirits! I think we have different body types, and different aspirations - but deal with a lot of the same issues, and like a lot of the same things!
Donnat - the wool Greek fisherman's hat is H&M from ages ago when Madonna did a colab. I have always loved it - particularly when my hair is very short! I have a black beret that I auditioned, and it looks pretty sharpe, too!
Jenn - I am usually such a late adopter, that I miss all the deals and steals. After today I am on a long stretch of work and extra curricular demands that there won't be much time for considered shopping until December. I have never pulled the trigger so fast as I did with the pea coat and Longchamps bag! Honestly, I felt faint when I pulled the bag from the mass of other bags on display (the price was that good!) Thanks to time with YLF I know my own mind!