Ha! I love Karie's Dr. Seuss quote.

Congratulations on coming to an easier place in your style evolution. And, you've always had killer style, and always will.

I love that she said that. I strive to be an "individual" and you do it justice. Keep on stylin'.

This is great Shannon! My style is also quite different to the norm around here... and I love it! I don't have a desire to 'fit in' and truthfully I don't want to look like "everyone else". I think you have honed your style to the point where you could actually be wearing something that is 'popular' yet it would look different because your wear it "your" way. You go girl.

Dazzled by the compliment you got -- congrats and keep it up!!

Shannon - I got the exact same compliment from a new patient, a man of all things. He went on to explain that in a huge sea of herd female fashion (it was skinny leg sucking jeans in knee boots, sweater and scarf, I looked like me. My outfit wasn't all that different - mini dress/tunic, leggings, boots and long jacket - aka my uniform. But it was an authentic expression not derivative style. I think that's what it's all about but there will always be those who feel threatened by those who do not follow the pack. I think you have awesome style!! I so enjoy reading your thoughts and seeing your posts! You always look stylish, put together, uber flattering - but like you! The Shannon-ness of all your pieces shows and showcase you! I really believe your friens meant the compliment in the above way - try and enjoy it and being the fantastic one of a kind you are!!

Love this post and thread. What a great reflection.

Thank you all so much for your comments and input.

I realize reading back what I wrote could be construed as speaking negatively about "lemming" purchases. I in no way meant it like that - in fact I just ordered the EF leather sleeved jacket that was an Angie pick and that some Fabbers have already. And I will continue to do so.

What I mean is I'm not going to try and duplicate outfits exactly how others wear them so beautifully but put my own spin on it, you know?

I guess with age I'm becoming more accepting of individuality. And even though I'm in a better headspace about my style, my headspace about my body is a whole other matter...

Lisa - HUGE Monty Python fan here!!'

That's exactly it! If you put your own spin on an ensemble rather than duplicate it exactly, you'll always look like yourself but better instead of like a fashion victim.

Due to poor access I am not as big a lemming as I might be, but I have definitely lemminged you Shannon! I would take what your friend said as an enormous compliment, as you did, and think it wonderful that we are old enough to realize it.

You are amazing and individual Shannon and we appreciate you! Even when using a lemming purchase or copying an ensemble you manage to make it you and that is what is so great. Keep rocking and accept that it's fab!
It's so hard to break that early training of trying to fit in isn't it?

Hi five! You shouldn't want to look like anyone else, because you are UHmazing!

Hah! The best compliment ever