Post-30x30 WIWs - YouLookFab Forum

I released myself from the 30x30 this week, even though Monday and Tuesday were technically days 29 and 30. And yet.... I still mostly wore things from my 30x30 this week, including at least two complete or just-about-complete duplicate outfits (so I didn't bother photographing those). I found that the advantage of making myself put together unique combinations during the 30x30 was that it gave me some new easy fallbacks that I know I like.

1. I've had this top for a while but hadn't figured out how to wear it; I'm not sure I love it with lower waistlines, but I do like it tucked into this new high-waisted skirt (which is very clearly olive in person, even if the color got sucked out in the picture). I like the side zipper, which doubles as an adjustable slit (close it down more during the day, sneak it open a little more when I have to climb a lot of steps).

2. Okay, okay, I've worn variations on this outfit a million times before, but this is the first time I've worn this top, which is a very light, soft linen and very welcome in the heat. It's just a little bit sheer and I don't have a camisole to wear under it, but under a jacket was acceptable for work. And this was the first time I've worn my new Sevilla Smith shoes to work (they're a rich reddish brown... not as dark in person as they look in the photo).

I'm so glad we did the 30x30... I'll be repeating outfits from it for a while, and now the rest of my closet is exciting.

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7 years ago

Emily K

(website)

Veteran

So good! #1 is so elegant. The adjustable zip sounds like a great design detail with functional bonus--probably great for day-to-evening, too. And the color combo in #2 is fab! The Sevilla Smith's work so well with this outfit.

madeline

I will repeat what Emily said-so elegant! Even in the casual cargo pants! I agree with you on the 30x30 making the rest of the closet exciting. I am slowly looking at what's in there with a new lens since I went black and white for the past month or so.

Joy

My lessons from the 30x30 resemble yours. My closet seems exciting, almost over-powering, and full of endless possibilities. These are beautiful outfits on you.

JAileen

I really like #2. I'm glad you guys are done with 30x30, and we get to see other garments. The shoes are fab, but the whole look is great.

Anonymous

Hi Srah!!! Congratulations on a really successful challenge. Getting to you know and your style has been my pleasure. It was so fun seeing how each challenge participant had their own very well defined style. You are true to your style and it suits you so amazingly perfect!!!!!!!

I love your style when you are dressed up professionally. I love it just as much when you dress down a bit because both looks are clearly you. You rocked every single WIW.

And yes, it is really nice to have access to our entire wardrobes. It is almost a relief.

Nomad

Active Member

I forgot that I actually have a find for the skirt (despite the description on the website, there's only one zipper, on the left side). I'm occasionally embarrassed by how much of my wardrobe is from Express, but they've been good to me over the years, when I have the patience to look past the uber-trendy and definitely-not-my-lifestyle stuff.

Emily K, my evenings are usually spent in loungewear at home or dance gear in the studio, but that's a good call... I'll keep this skirt in mind for the rare occasion when I have an occasion.

madeline and Joy, "A new lens" is the perfect way to describe it. I hope we do more of these challenges in the future... I loved the camaraderie of going through it together and seeing how everyone approached it, and it's fun to look at our things with fresh eyes now.

JAileen, it's funny that the jacket and pants in #2 were in my 30x30, but I'm still not tired of them (I've had them both for years and they've been favorites the whole time, though, so they're truly my workhorses). It's fun to be able to match them up with non-30x30 things now!

Sterling, I've also really enjoyed getting to know you over the challenge. I've admired and appreciated your analytical approach and clear communication... and anyone else with a love of spreadsheets is tops in my books.

Express

High Waisted Side Zipper Midi Pencil Skirt

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Runcarla

Srah, you have a spare elegance to your style that is restful to look at - if that makes any sense! There is also an artfulness to your clothing and outfits that keeps things interesting. I think of Caroline Bessett when Imlook at your WIW posts.

Sal

I agree with Carla above - her words are more eloquent than mine today.

I like both looks - but you are rocking the pencil skirt.

I have actually been sick since the challenge with temperatures so aside from today I have not left the house for four days.... Tomorrow back to dressing normally again for work and usual activities...

skylurker

Love them both, #1 is very elegant, and I like how the jacket and shoes give structure to casual look #2, and echo your hair colour.

runcarla, thank you! The phrase "spare elegance" really resonates... you've just given me a new descriptor to aim for, and a new style icon in Ms. Bessette.

Sal, thank you, and I hope you feel better soon! Looking forward to seeing your WIWs again once you're back out and around.

skylurker, thank you!

Laura G

Both beautiful, especially the pencil skirt!

Srah -- I know that Angie says that we should investigate and try all possible retailers, but personal experience has taught me that I buy from the same retailers over and over again. I buy from them because they suit me body, suit my need to quality, and are in my price range. I have tried other other retailers only to be a little disappointed.

I save time and money by ignoring the vast majority of other retailers.

I haven't as much luck at Express as you. I favor Gap and Nordstroms. Other brands are represented in my wardrobe, but only in minor quantities. For example, I have two tops from Ann Taylor.

I like "spare elegance" a lot. It does suit you well.

Ledonna N.

Dang it, I agree you have a beautiful elegance even in your after work clothing. How beautiful and it is a great thing when we take away lesson and we learn from doing.

Angie

Fashion Stylist

KILLER x2.

You are gorgeous.

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