Getting a Dressing Down - YouLookFab Forum

So, I'm still working on my "super casual" skills. So far, with this cool Spring, my boyfriend jeans have been my go to "dress down" staple. I've seen a new uniform emerge, and I surprised to find myself reaching for volume on volume and my Cons repeatedly.

I think I'm not in typical "figure flattery" territory here, but I wonder if ease in clothing might be "flattering" in it's own way. I still feel a little like I'm wearing someone else's clothes, but they're extremely comfy, so I don't mind slipping them on.

I'd love any inspiration you have on casual warm weather dressing!

1. Loft Outlet Boho top. This will be paired with shorts in the heat of Summer

2. Knit Hoodie (Sonoma -- Kohls). I was going to WalMart, and I had to resist the tempation to change my clothes to "dress up." What does this say about me? Hmmm. Of course, half the folks in WalMart were wearing pajama pants!

3. An older photo --- with a Gap sweater and slipper flats.

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12 years ago

DonnaF

Veteran

You look cute beyond words in all three!

Transcona Shannon

You have mastered the casual BF look Beth Ann! All three of these outfits are fabulous.

I do think that ease in clothing is "untraditionally" flattering. I know Angie has talked about how too snug clothing is unflattering to her eye and that volume can be extremely flattering by hinting at our waistline, etc. I think these outfits of yours are the perfect example of that

Elizabeth P

LOL... I read this as getting a "dressing GOWN" and thought that was interesting territory to head into... wasn't sure I really needed to look...

Anyhoo, I think you have nailed casual. You have just the right amount of looseness to look comfortable, and comfortable with yourself. I've been doing a lot of this type of look myself lately, I hope it looks as good on me!

ElleH

I think you look fab in all 3 outfits! You seem to have long legs proportionally so the rolled jeans don't make your legs too short.

catgirl

These are fabulous! I think they are still figure flattering and I prefer a bit of looseness in casual outfits, because you need to look like you are actually going to BE casual and moving about - i.e. boating or running errands.

(website)

Ha! I read just as Elizabeth did.
Your casual look is fine here.

Angie

Fashion Stylist

Beth Ann, I find ease in clothing MORE flattering than form fitting styles. I wear all my tailored items a little looser than most because to my eye - the visual effect is more elegant and chic. While tight clothing may look "sexy and hot" and "showcase assets", (and there is a time and a place for this type of dressing), it never looks refined and elegant. Furthermore, we look slimmer in our clothes when they are just a little looser all over. At least, this is how I see it. Of course, opinions will differ on this point. I bat for Team Loose.

Soooooooo, I vote all these outfits very flattering! And very now. Relaxed, modern, on trend and fun! Well done

rachylou

Beth Ann, this is seriously working for you. That's all I have to say (!)

Thistle

These really work on you! Flattering and relaxed. I think you nailed the BF style!!

Anonymous

Oh I love 2 and 3 in particular. You look great!

Suz

I love these looks on you, Beth Ann, and I do find them extremely flattering! With ease comes effortless elegance.

Well, okay, "elegance" might be a stretch when we are talking super casual, but the colours and proportions look great on you!

Ingunn

You look at ease and super fab in all three, Beth Ann. Love it!

Beth Ann

Thanks for the "boost." I hate to admit it, but I need all the guidance I can get with casual dressing. I'm not one of those trying to like and struggling with the bf's, though. I'm a convert drawn by the trend, but retained by the feeling of ease. My fitted looks need to have stretch and not bind, and my structured garments need to skim and move with me, because I never sit still!

And you're absolutely right, Angie. Since joining YLF, I've been pulled, kicking and screaming, out of a mentality that went shopping for the smallest size label. I wouldn't consider brands that I knew ran smaller, because I knew the number on the label would have to change. In order to gain more elegance and ease in my fits, I've had to let that kind of thinking go. Mentally, I acted as if I had gained 15 pounds, when, in fact, I hadn't . Anyone else have a little body image sulk now and then? Well, enough of that! Who cares? I want to dress well and take the best care of my body that I can.

P.S. Once I got over my "sizing pout," I've come to the point that I actually "feel" slimmer in my clothes, owing to more ease. As I move forward, I think this sensation actually improves my body image. And when I REALLY have to size up? Well -- snip, snip goes the tag!

Debora

Three GREAT casual looks, Beth Ann! Each one looks stylish AND flattering. Well done!

Caro in Oz

These are fabulous looks & this is coming from someone who struggles with casual:)

Sweet Beth Ann, YOU ARE THERE, sister!!! LOVE your new way of thinking about fit, garment ease, and size labels. You are the boss of your clothes. Always! xo

pil

Great looks and great attitude!

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