I Think My Style Is Shifting (Wardrobe Update) - YouLookFab Forum

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I Think My Style Is Shifting (Wardrobe Update)

MsLuna

Veteran

The last two months of wardrobe minimalism has been eye-opening. I discovered:
- Comfort is QUEEN.
- I need to eliminate all polyester in my warm weather wardrobe (and I have)
- I need breathable fabrics (except for my jersey dresses for colder weather)
- FFBO = fluid dolman/kimono sleeve top + tube skirt + edgy comfy footwear
- I like to show off the long arms/legs and surrender my waist
- my poison eye for waist surrendering styles (on me, not on others) is gone
- I can wear separates!!!

Result of the last two months of wardrobe minimalism:
Increased self-esteem. This is a huge deal for me because I struggled with weight/appearance issues all my adult life. The newly discovered FFBO and the trends that favour fluid/comfort worked very well in my favour.

The Style Shift:
Shannon's shift to more comfortable clothes inspired me a lot. My comfort emphasis began when I got diagnosed with a myriad of foot problems. I started looking for more comfortable footwear. At the same time, Shannon has been recording her style shift towards comfort. I absolutely admire her style and decided to check out the brand she's (and many others here) been raving about: Eileen Fisher. I've tried their stuff on and fell in love...

I started looking up the brand some more. When they shifted to appeal to a more youthful audience a few years ago, I was instantly drawn because some of the outfits are quite edgy. But at that time, I was all about "faking" a waist.

Now that I've experimented with comfort-loving styles that meld my love for tough-edge and feminine softness, I think I'm ready to explore a style shift. Funny how the style process works, huh? I created a Pinterest board dedicated to comfy/edgy style:
http://www.pinterest.com/mskat.....omfy-chic/

I'm really contemplating on investing more on this style but I'm hoping it's not a phase. If not done well, this style can look incredibly sloppy (it's all about balancing structure and the right proportions). If I had the best self-esteem I've ever had in the last month than I did for most of my adult life (in this style of clothing), is it worth investing? Will this last?

ETA: I still plan to incorporate graphic prints and colour in my outfits!

Dressing

31 replies

Latest reply was from MsLuna

goldenpig

(website)

Veteran

I love your Pinterest board and can't wait to see what you do with this! I've been contemplating becoming more minimalist myself! Which is a huge change given my love of prints, bright colors, matchy matchy and ALGO! Excited to see how your style evolves!

MsLuna

Veteran

Thank you! Glad you like my board! I definitely have ideas and I'm going to see how I can incorporate colour and prints. Most of the pinned outfits are black or charcoal so I can definitely get creative with colour!

It's really worth a try to go minimalist. From my experience, I was really able to carefully examine my lifestyle needs as well as my style preferences. You can STILL do prints in a small wardrobe! In my case, I'm just more selective with the print and colours!

goldenpig

(website)

Veteran

Oh, hm, I don't think I could ever claim to be a WARDROBE minimalist. I'm too embarrassed to post in those "how many items in your closet" threads. As an example, I bet I could wear a different skirt every day of the month and still not run out. Same with dresses. I guess I meant more of an OUTFIT minimalist, which is what your Pinterest board seemed to be. Edgy minimalism.

MsLuna

Veteran

Ohhhh! I see what you mean now! That's still a worthwhile goal! I would love to see your outfits and read your thoughts about them! I personally can't be an outfit minimalist. I just love my accessories waaaaay too much!

minimalist

Veteran

Thank you so much for describing this shift in such picturesque detail.

At my leanest, I never had a "waistline." So it's wonderfully freeing to read of your shift to surrendering the waist...and the battle to define it.

MsLuna

Veteran

@Amy K: Thanks so much for your response! even at my leanest I had a non-existent waistline too! Although - even in my current shape, the right tailored dress and jacket can give me one. Sometimes I fuss around in them though and since I'm working in a very casual work environment, I can get away with all the non-tailored, waist surrendering tops!

I've always learned in image consulting to "go with what you are" because that's what your body is most comfortable with. Despite this knowledge I fought my shape - HARD - for years! It was only through dressing for my body (rather than concealing) that I discovered how good I can look and feel!

Gigi

Veteran

KatieKat, I'm so excited for you! It's always great to learn something about ourselves and what makes us happy.

I'm trying some flowy tops this month, when my Anthro order arrives. Hopefully I will be smitten with the fluid look as much as you have been.

I do agree that cutting back on the size of your wardrobe can be a very enlightening experience. I sometimes miss the days of my supersmall wardrobe (less than 30 pieces). It was a lot easier! But I also realize that my emotional needs were not being met, and I wasn't learning about myself.

What size are you at for your wardrobe now, if I may ask? Everyone's idea of minimalism is different; I'm just curious what numbers you ended up with.

MsLuna

Veteran

@Gigi: I'm at around 23 for my summer wardrobe (I have about 20 more pieces for the fall). I bought a lot of stuff in May and June, many of which were returned, fell apart (I got what I paid for) or got tossed into the donate pile (yucky yucky polyester!). Like you, I'm not happy with an ultra-limited wardrobe. I'm a uniform dresser and would love to have different colours/textures/variations of the same thing. I know that's boring to some, but I like it. I'm not sure how many clothing items I need, really but from this experience, I got so much more mileage with separates.

I hope you enjoy the slouchy fluid tops. They're really comfy and flattering if you add structure in other areas (see Angie's article). It's great to keep an open mind when trying different styles too - and don't be afraid to make mistakes! That's how I slowly discovered my style!

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Love your board, Ms. KK and love your insights. It is always best to go with who we are! I adore EF's stuff but struggle to wear some of it....so will enjoy some of it vicariously on you, Shannon, and others. I love the easy elegance. You're right -- it's all about getting the proportions correct. But you are good at that already.

Caro in Oz

Veteran

I love your board too. I also love it when everything starts coming together. You are so right about the importance of mistakes - I know I learn so much more from taking a wrong turn than I do from doing the same thing over & over :).

Neel

Veteran

You and Shannon make me want to run and buy all the EF stuff. I also see a pattern in your pinterest board. The Alexander Wang tops are also drapey comfy yet edgy. Fantastic board and good job figuring out your style shift

Do you think you could buy one or two of the items you really love from these designers as wild cards and see how it works for you and your wardrobe?

shedev

Veteran

I like your pinterest board. I hear you on the polyester. I dabbled in silk and cashmere but I think I'm really a cotton girl at heart.

Elizabeth P

Veteran

Thanks for sharing your style shift and experience. it's great to see people become more at piece with what they look like and who they are. I also love your Pinterest board, it's a style I'm also drawn to, but am afraid with my IT shoulders that I'll just look sloppy unless VERY careful.

Mona

Veteran

You know how to work EF. It is all about proportion and structure. I am happy to hear that your self esteem is higher because of your wardrobe. That is how it should be.

salt-sea

I love your board. My preferred style is very similar, has appealed to me for years, and in my opinion is a classic silhouette.
If you tire of it send all your EF to me!

jackiec

Veteran

I love your analysis! You are moving along so efficiently in your style journey IMHO! I love your Pinterest board as well - it looks edgy, yet soft and comfy at the same time. I agree, comfort really is key, or QUEEN as you say! So often as soon as things become fidgety or finicky then it's game over. Glad to hear that your self esteem is up - it should be b/c you are so SMART, STYLISH, and BEAUTIFUL

Susie

Veteran

Katie, I too love your board and have a few of the items on there. I also share your love for, fluid fits, comfort, edgy footwear and dolman sleeves. I love EF and some of my most loved and most worn pieces are hers. My go to formula is top + bottom (one or both being interesting enough that a third piece isn't necessary) plus stylish shoes and bag.

It is wonderful to hear that you are feeling so good in your new look! It sounds like it really has been a thorough and positive style shift for you. I believe that means it will last, at least for some time, so I would say it's worth it to continue to invest in pieces that fit this style.

I will definitely be following your board and your WIW!

Beth Ann

Veteran

Well done, KK! The direction you heading is modern, sophisticated and easy, and it flatters your form and fits your lifestyle.

amiable

Veteran

Love your board also, and want some of these pieces, or similar ones, for myself. I have yet to see an EF item in person, or have the chance to try one on to see what makes them so fabulous. But they certainly do have the magical comfy but not frumpy look. I want that for me too

Lisa

Veteran

Congrats on figuring out what new direction to take your style. I'm still working on figuring out what mine should be. Lovely pinterest board.

MsLuna

Veteran

Ladies! I'm so overwhelmed with gratitude in your responses! Thank you so much for being so supportive! This truly is such and awesome community that promotes growth - not only style wise but personal growth as well!

@Suz: I hesitated getting into the EF style for the longest time! But yes, it's that easy elegance that draws me in. Hoping to be able to make the jump and invest in a few pieces! I plan to do it veeeeery slowly!

@caro: I used to get so frustrated over purchasing mistakes. I still do (because it costs money) but I found that they helped me hone my style this time around. This wardrobe exercise helped me narrow down a more authentic style!

@Neel: yup... I seem to be drawn to drapey-edgy I think my more rounded body type handles the look better. The fabric just sort of falls and skims gracefully. I could easily go for a more earthy/bohemian look but the tough feminine edge suits me better

There is an EF sweater I have in mind but I'm not able to justify spending $175 for the piece on clearance (yikes!) but I'm amazed - a few of my open knit sweater snag easily but when I tried on this particular sweater (with my evil snaggy bracelets), it wasn't as bad!

I'm reaaaaally thinking about the harem pants actually. That would likely be my first EF purchase, if it works out.

@Elizabeth P: guess what? I'm an IT!!!! so if it works for me, I'm sure you can make it work! I hear you on the sloppy factor though. This style is one of those styles that could tread the line of elegance and sloppiness! I personally think proportion is key as well as knowing where to add structure in your outfits.

@salt sea: hah! As if I'll ever tire of the style! I've tried this style many times but often felt so sloppy. Also, I wore so much polyester then. Time to hone in and change that right? and interesting how you see this style as a classic!

@jackiec: I'd like to thank you so much for being there for me throughout my style journey. You've been so supportive and such an awesome cheerleader since I posted my first wardrobe minimalism outfit! And you're pretty darn awesome yourself with amazing style!

What I found helped the most is "journaling" my outfits via WIW and sorting out what I liked/disliked in them. I discovered that the ones that produced the highest happiest factor are the ones that are comfortable and match my aesthetic. The drapey jersey dresses and tube skirt + fluid dolman comes to mind here!

@Susie: good to meet another EF fan! See, I'm always hesitant about EF because I've never invested that much on clothes before. If my wardrobe is minimalist - sure, it's worth it, but I think I have yo mentally get past the point of the price. On clearance, EF sweaters here are still at least $120! Yikes!

I've always bought discount and 60% of the time, I regret my purchases. I guess it's now time to really think about investing in good pieces.

@amiable: I wish we had gone to the 3rd floor of a The Bay when you were here (we looked for bags there after brunch, remember?)! They had EF stuff! Next time, I hope you can make it here and we'll go comfy chic crazy (ok not THAT crazy)

Mia1011

You've pinned some really great jackets! The clothes look modern and so so comfortable. Maybe you can purchase a few pieces and see how you like wearing the clothing? Thanks for sharing!

deb

Veteran

Edgy Comfort, your new style moniker?

Melinda SF

Love your board and just followed! As a recovering hourglass now an inverted triangle(my board here, you'll see a lot of similarities!) having to give up my padded shoulders was hard, but I'm now in love with the looks with soft shoulders and asymmetrical and looser fits on top. I have disproportionately large breasts and the flowing nature of these cuts, when well fitted, really helps me soften that stuff up top and call attention to my long and shapely legs.

To your points about sloppy: I used to wear a LOT of Eileen Fisher but discovered much of her stuff now looks boxy on me. with such a short waist, her stuff made me feel heavier. The secret is that you--or the designer--have to provide structure! Recently I discovered Stella Carakasi (I have several pieces that I bought pinned to my Stuff I Own Pinterest Board) and I LOVE how her pieces can fit so many bodies. I think of her as Eileen Fisher's younger, hipper sister. Great fabrics and rich colors; but all provide structure somewhere, e.g. some are are fitted/structured in the sleeves, some in the chest, others in the waist. The Dream On top in Deep Sea(a very dark navy) I have pinned is just smashing on me with white jeans and heels. I recently wore it to pitch my company to investors and the two women were begging me for the designer's name. The asymmetrical red leather jacket makes me feel like a million bucks! I highly recommend her stuff, she is having a sale and even when not things are very affordable. The Need to Know Sweater is structured under the arms, so with a matching navy tanktop (or white if you get the white version) it looks fitted but also relaxed.

Anyway, thank you for even more great looks to pin!

Melinda SF

Oh! one other tip on EF: Macy's almost always has pieces on the sale rack! If you prowl macy's regularly you can always collect pieces over time.

MsLuna

Veteran

Thanks ladies!

@Mia: I'm watching out for a few EF items on eBay. Will be keeping you Fabbers posted!

@deb: looks like it, yes! I still love the floaty "feminine" feel though but I find that the waist-surrendering styles make it less so!

@Melinda: glad you like my board!!! I'm actually IT as well with a short (large) waist and apple tendencies. Soft shoulders and assymetrical looks are quite magical, aren't they? And yes, loose cuts can make us look boxy, but I find the trick to that is NECKLINES! Boatnecks and crew necks in floaty fabrications generally look boxy. V-necks and lower scoops work out better for a larger bust.

Definitely agree with you on structure. I can't wear floaty all around, that's why I'm often in a slim skirt or structured pant. I also wear structured jackets

Thank you for introducing me to the Stella Carakasi! Hopefully she ships to Canada!

Thanks so much for all the recommendations! I look forward to seeing your outfits!

Gaylene

Veteran

Stella Carakasi is found in quite a few Canadian boutiques. Check the list under Stores in her website. I tried on some of her tops recently at a local boutique and found they were fluid but not quite as drapey as EF. The price point is lower and the fabrics, while nice, aren't quite as sumptuous as EF--but, then, I'm a sucker for EF's silk jersey.

MsLuna

Veteran

Thanks Gaylene! For me, the fabric is super important so we shall see!

Ornella

(website)

Veteran

Katie, it's hard to stay away from the thought process (and board) I can identify with so much despite my shortage of time. I only want to touch on one point you mentioned "Will it last?"

My question to you - does it matter? If it's genuinely you, and the happiness and confidence indicate so, then go for it. It's not about trends, but wearing what reflects us. I would only say - small steps. Buy slowly and carefully, and enjoy each new addition. Then you'll wear what you have a lot and slight shifts that will reflect trends, to the extent you want, will not make too much of the old stuff dated or uninteresting. One right new piece can freshen existing things so much and keep it all interesting. I'm not sure I've been very clear, but I've been thinking about this a lot lately too and hope to return to the question a lot in the future. Great thread.

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