You look great, and have excellent tips. Sounds like it would be fun to go shopping with you!! Love that tunic, and I see it comes in a pretty pale purple...

Those are great tips and nicely outlined to help stay focused!

I do think it is very helpful to wear something "smart" and in a great color. That has helped remind me of where "the bar" is and that the grass may not be greener.

I like the wildcard idea too, in that sometimes there is a need NOT to just get more of the same, or at least to see what something actually looks like that I might not have considered.

I recently was in our local large dept store, not Nordie's, alas, but was reminded of its extensive amount and variety of clothing, along many price points, and including Theory, Nicole, EF, and others. I've been frustrated by online shopping busts and my preference for being able to try things on before buying, so may need to schedule a dept store day to just wander through the many areas for inspiration without commitment.

Una: Great idea! I never think to bring items from my current wardrobe with me -- I'd probably leave them in the dressing room, lol! I think I might try bringing pics of these items, though!

Banoffi: Thanks so much!

Aliona: I would not be amused by a pill-y bum! Glad to know that about Vince, since they generally size me out and outprice me! That will make it easier to not pout when I see something I love!

Marianna: It is sheer lace on the back bodice. I think you could wear a cami and make it work well, unless you need absolutely no bra. In which case, woohoo! go for it! It's not nearly as "come hither" a look as on the model.

Jenn: Isn't it sad that these lines don't have us for customers -- that they leave great women out and money on the table? I know how you feel, and I sometimes struggle with this, too. I think I can enjoy these departments because I came from a family of seamstresses and love garments as wearable art. I take what I see and use it to guide my "eye" when I'm at Kohls or Loft.

Jenava: I've done a few YLF meetups -- best shopping partners ever!

UF: I'm at a complete loss when shopping online. You have me beat there, I'm sure. I suspect that shopping IRL would help guide your online purchases, though.

SUCH a great tip to go shopping in your best outfit! I'll try that the next time.

I love hearing your tips & just adore that lace dress! I might try your 2nd one when I'm home for Christmas, since I've been reading lots about sewing lately but would love to see/feel some examples in person.

I tend to wear a fussy outfit when I'm shopping, because if I'm not willing to deal with the fuss to try something on (and when I thrift, I try it on 3 separate times before committing), I don't love it enough to consider buying it. ;D

Thanks! I love the dress and it would be perfect for my work holiday party but it's sooo exposed for me! lol

Smittie: I need all the help I can get to make good purchases that improve my wardrobe!

E: That's a good tip for when I really don't want to purchase anything! And I keep having an urge to sew, but can't seem to dedicate the time (and make the mess).

Marianna: The work party is one of the hardest dressing events of the year! To look stunning, but not too alluring! I haven't had a work party in decades, so I'd be horribly out of practice!