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Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Stuck in a rut

Chris987

Veteran

I've gotten a bit stuck on something and am wondering what sort of advice Angie and all you wise fabbers might have for getting out of it.

My style has been strongly classic for as long as I can remember and that's fine with me. Over the 2+ years I've been on YLF I've learned an enormous amount from this fabulous community, and feel that I've gotten pretty good at buying and wearing clothes that fit and flatter my short, curvy, pear shaped body. Classic styles are among the best for my body type so it all works, and it fits with my casual retired more-country-than-city lifestyle too. I've also figured out what colors I like to wear.

On the flip side I generally don't find flowy garments, bold/bright colors, and trendy silhouettes to be flattering and/or I just don't like them. I'm an introvert with a fairly subdued personality who is happy NOT making a grand entrance or being the center of attention.

What's missing is this...I see a lot of styles worn here on YLF that seem more sophisticated, polished, modern, dramatic, artistic, fun...than what I normally wear, and I'd love to be able to translate these looks to things that work for me. I'm trying to find a style that is somewhere between Iris Apfel and the retirement age women I see around me in styles I find dull and boring. That's a pretty big range so you'd think I could figure something out. Once in a while I do figure it out, but I don't seem to be able to repeat it, and when I'm out shopping I'm always drawn to the same old stuff.

I've tried on things I wouldn't normally wear, taken shopping breaks, gone shopping with friends, collected Pinterest images of ideas I like, studied other fabber's outfits, and asked store SE's for help (which has mostly been a huge fail) yet I seem unable to make the leap and stay there.

Has anyone else been here, and how did you get out of it? Maybe I should start with trying to create just one outfit?

Thanks for any and all ideas!

Dressing

45 replies

Latest reply was from Suz

SarahD8

Veteran

Chris, I haven’t been here as long as you have so I haven’t witnessed the learning curve but I have definitely noticed that you seem to have mastered a consistent style that flatters you and looks harmonious.

The thought that occurred to me when reading you post was: instead of trying to find new styles of clothing, how about focusing on accessories? That could provide the touch of individuality, drama, and polish you are craving but also be compatible with the outfit formulas you’ve developed. Drape a ruana over a classic shirt and pants combo, or add a chunky turquoise or resin bracelet.

I’m also remembering “Janet’s dress,” that looked fantastic on you and I think nailed the style you are talking about. Not sure how to translate that into a formula you could replicate but: I get what you’re after, and you can do it.

Liz

Veteran

Chris, what would you think of posting some pictures for us -- maybe do some that you feel hit the look you want, and another set that didn't hit it. If you have them, it might also be useful to give us a few of the pinterest pictures you've gathered that show what you'd LIKE to look like, if you could get there and stay there.

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

I’m probably one of the least qualified people around to respond, but here’s my thought: it’s got to be you. Wanting to like it can’t work; you’ve got to like it like it.

The world of non-conservative, non-traditional stuff is pretty big, and probably overlaps a lot with the world of boring tradition. I think you have to find that sweet spot of overlap. I’ll try to give examples:

Angie picked a pair of Born boots at this years NAS that I think are fantastic. They are in today’s post. They have a bunch of closures that to my eye look like the row of closures on nineteenth century shoe. They look very traditional to me, but must be pretty hip if Angie chose them.

Paisley is a very traditional pattern, and can look very staid. It can also look like a wild 70s party. My dad thinks polka dots look like “old ladies”, but they are trendy (I think). Are you comfortable with color if it’s in traditional patterns?

Didn’t girls in the 1950s roll up the legs of their jeans to show off their bobby socks and oxfords (that some sneakers might resemble?) Does doing that with statement socks feel “right” to you?

In other words, don’t try to push outside of who you are. Show your beautiful self. If you can find traditional styles and patterns that that are resurging at this point in the fashion cycle and that you are genuinely, innately comfortable with, I think you could highlight them to update your look, while keeping it classical and “you”.

Keep us posted!

Anonymous

I understand this - and occasionally wonder if I'm stuck in a rut too (hair, makeup, clothes etc). And yet every time I try to push outside my norm, it never feels authentic, and back I go. I'm not sure it indicates failure or a lack of imagination , rather I think some/many of us are good at finding our lane and sticking to it. I'm not convinced constant change is necessary. As Angie often says, keeping your personal current with a few new pieces each season that nod to trending styles or colours is the way to go.

LaPed

Veteran

Chris, I totally understand where you're coming from. I too lead a rural, casual lifestyle, and am generally not interested in bright colours or flowing/ornamental garments. I think of this as my "stodgy New Englander" gene: form follows function, no bells and whistles please, the classics are classic for a reason. So I have to be careful if I want to avoid a full-on classic/preppy look. I'm often looking for ways to undermine a too-classic look.

For me, adding one earthy/murky/"dirty" colour to an otherwise crisp and clean palette helps keep things interesting. For example, mustard as an accent to white and navy. Or rust as an accent to black and white (I'm thinking of your yummy pumpkin coat -- would look amazing with a very classic palette of white and navy). Funky/chunky shoes are another addition that can go a long way towards adding an individual twist on a classic outfit (I'm thinking of your red loafers here). It might also be worth assessing your accessory situation in general and figure out whether they're moving you in the direction you want to go. Swapping out classic studs for a more dangly "artsy-boho" earring, or replacing a dainty pendant with a bold/chunky/geometric one could be easy ways to test new style waters and put a twist on standby outfits.

Also, I'm wondering if you've done Angie's style moniker and style statement exercises. The adjectives you've listed -- "sophisticated, polished, modern, dramatic, artistic, fun" -- are a perfect starting place and could push you in a new direction. It sounds like you want the changes to be subtle, rather than showy. Sophisticated simplicity, quiet drama, etc.

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Chris, I totally get this. I felt like this in my first couple of years on YLF. I was emerging from a time when I defaulted to a uniform of bootleg jeans and tees and button-front shirts nonstop. I was going through a lot of changes in my life (I’d just lost my mom, had started running, and was working to get out of my shell and my self-imposed limitations).

The first year or so after I discovered style blogs, I followed a bunch of them and tried copying various people’s styles — I wound up experimenting with looks that were fun or colorful or quirky or classic, but ultimately didn’t feel like me in the long term. It took me some time, and lots of trial and error, to figure out what truly feels like me.

I also have come to realize that even though many things in fashion have resonated with me ever since my teens, I am a fickle creature in some ways. I fall in love with a print, wear the item a bunch of times in one season, and then tire of it. I still experiment with color and varying silhouettes to some degree, but I’ve gotten more confident in sticking with certain things that work for me, physically, mentally and emotionally, even if it seems I’m zigging when everyone else is zagging, fashion-wise.

Finding my own style has been an exercise in getting real about my lifestyle, my body, and how I want to present myself to the world. Sometimes it’s more bold and sometimes it’s not. I’m an emotional dresser and i just go with it.

I’m not sure if that is helpful to you at all, since I’m not sure exactly what advice I would offer. Perhaps the best I can tell you is: have fun, experiment without feeling pressure, and listen to your gut. Don’t be swayed by the crowd if you know something is just not you. I think you’re doing great!

Gretchen

Veteran

I so hear you on this. I think it's a case of retraining your eye. You know classic works for you, so adding in something else is interesting, but feels not quite right.

One idea- can you find a scarf that has classic elements but starts you in that more artistic direction? A few years ago I bought a fall scarf from WHBM that had green plaid and and leopard edging. It was "classic" but but also more artistic than I typically use, and I could easily remove it if I felt uncomfortable during the day.

Another idea - can you test drive a more artistic/creative outfit on a day when you are not in your usual environment (like on a day trip, or a weekend excursion)? Maybe taking an outfit risk won't feel as risky when you aren't going to see those people again, and you can get more comfortable with how the pieces come together.

Janet

(website)

Veteran

One more thought: Instead of going for an all-out "more creative" (or more whatever) outfit, try one of your usual formulas but with a small tweak here or there. Changing one element of an outfit can make a huge difference.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Come shop with me!

Chris, my PRACTICAL suggestions are:

Do not change too much at once. Stick with the subdued colour palette that makes you happy, and throw in a different silhouette and way of putting the components of an outfit together. A wild card can also change the landscape of your wardrobe.

Start with putting together TWO Fall outfits that make you feel fab and work for everyday life in your setting.

(If you have your wardrobe in Finds, I can help you with that).

Also, I'm nodding along with so much of what Lisa P, La Ped and Janet wrote.

Now lets deal with the EMOTION

Listen to your feelings. YOU have to wear your outfit, and no one else.

I believe that an authentic style is best because it's easy, manageable, practical, and creates confidence. You want to get to the stage where you feel KILLER fab in your outfit when you put it together - and then forget about it for the rest of the day. No comparing & despairing, and no pulling yourself down. Keep those signature parts of your style just that - because that is YOU. No need to change it up because of the trends unless you want the change. We can list those signature looks together if you like.

Finding a style you love that works for your life takes time and patience. FWIW, I have seen you evolve beautifully on your style journey here. Give it a little more time.

And last, read these posts:

https://youlookfab.com/2015/11.....e-renewal/

https://youlookfab.com/2015/12.....style-rut/

Bonnie

Veteran

I've often fantasized about working with a stylist, Angie would be my first choice, to get an expert's opinion. I've returned after a four month road trip and can't get excited about my summer wardrobe and I will have hot days until mid November. I'll be following this thread for ideas.

Cardiff girl

Veteran

You are not alone in feeling like this and loads of brill advice/support given above.l m probably not going to add much but just wanted to say adding small touches of polish/colour in the form of nail varnish,accessories like scarves,jewellery and maybe asking your hairdresser for some advice re a slightly bolder cut or colour can make all the difference without pushing you too far out of your comfort zone.Good luck.

RobinF

Veteran

This is such a great question! I go through this too, wanting to create a different look but I still gravitate to the same favorites. You got some great responses with a lot of food for thought!

cindysmith

Veteran

You mention Iris Apfel as being one end of the spectrum. For me, Iris Apfel's look can be summed up in one word: accessories. Yes, she does some wicked power-clashing pattern mixing. Yes, she wears some bold colors, bold shapes, bold whatevers. But she always accessorizes to. the. max. Even when she's wearing something "basic", it doesn't look basic because she piles on the necklaces and bracelets. Piles of chunky oversized accessories.

Take pic 1. Simple white shirt over plain black top. Sounds almost bore. ing. But it totally isn't, because look at all that turquoise, those glasses. Ka-blam!
2. Navy and tan trench coat. Classic garment, fairly conservative color combination. Safe, normal, understated, right? Not with that necklace and those bracelets ka-bloom!
3. Think of Hillary Clinton's pantsuits, and how often people critiqued them. Here's Iris in a turquoise pantsuit, very similar to one S.O.S. Clinton would wear. Look at the way Iris accessorized it; it doesn't read as matchy-matchy pantsuit because there are all those interesting accessories. Ka-pow!
4. Black pants, white shirt. The epitome of basic. Until we add all those dramatic accessories. Ka-blooey!
5. This purple tunic looks like it could be from a brand like Alfred Dunner that skews older, right? But does it look like boring old lady clothes on Iris? Not when she's got on so many necklaces that you can hardly see the top And the way she's combined colors here is just awesome. Freaking amazing, if you ask me. Holy stack of chunky necklaces, batman!
6. I can't decide if that's an oversized women's cocoon style cardigan, or somebody's grandpa's sweater, but look how she's piled on the accessories to make this a statement look. Who cares if it's grandpa's sweater when it looks that fabulous, right? Ka-ching ka-bling!
7. Very plain black top. Accessories to the max. Bada-bing!
8. Very ladylike white coat. Black accessories BLAM!
9. Simple denim jacket. Plain yellow pants. Necklace factor? Bada-BOOM!

I could do that all day, because Iris Apfel is so prolific LOL. (Also, it's fun to make comic book noises) But the point I'm trying to get at is that you don't have to step outside of your comfort zone to get the kind of look you see and want to recreate. Wear what you feel great in, your usual clothes that you know are flattering to your unique body. Then add the artsy flair with accessories, like Iris does. Accessories are safe, they're not as expensive as new clothing. They're not as much of a commitment when you walk out the door wearing them.

You have to stay true to you, right? If you aren't comfortable in your clothes, you won't be comfortable in your day. Stay comfortable in your skin by staying comfortable in your clothes. Keep wearing what works for you, and take it towards something more artsy & add flair with a stack of bangles and a bright scarf or stack of necklaces. Carry a faux fur handbag, like Iris (pic 10)
11. Pile on some fruit theme bracelets for a fun summer look
12 opt for a super-chunky necklace
13 colorful chunky bracelet
14 stacked delicate bangles

These are all ideas I'm looking into since I've been drawn to more minimalist garments lately. Plain tank tops, rather ordinary shirts, etc. I'm looking to Iris for inspiration to punch it up a little bit, give it some comic book sound effects. I'm not confident enough in my abilities to pile it on like she does, so I'll be starting small, like the last few pics.

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rachylou

Veteran

My first thought is... the difference to me between tired classic and kapow classic... is dye. It’s the way you can have a dull black and a strong black in similar styles of pants. I pass by this Dress Barn all the time on the way to Petco. I feel their styles are pretty classic, but the colours don’t ever do me any favours. Some how their reds are not as saturated even when they’re bright. There’s a lot of grey in all their colours. Anyways, I see in my mind a clear burgundy, which is still fairly subdued, for you to both add sophistication and sharpen focus... I warn against turquoise and tan... this works, but everyone knows it, so it gets to seeming a little hokey.

Laurie

Veteran

.I see a lot of styles worn here on YLF that seem more sophisticated, polished, modern, dramatic, artistic, fun...than what I normally wear, and I'd love to be able to translate these looks to things that work for me.

Next time you see a specific look here on YLF that makes you think, "I think I'd like to try that" share it with us so we can see which way you are leaning! And, more pictures. For me, taking photos of my outfits has been so incredibly helpful and eye opening. Try something more sophisticated, polished, dramatic etc...and take a pic. Share or not, but it might help you see what you really look like (more sophisticated, polished and dramatic maybe?)

jussie

Veteran

Hmm well I know this is probably something you already know but..... funky shoes are a really simple way to totally change the look of an outfit. Also I am not sure if you wear glasses but glasses frames can make a big difference too.
When I want something a little more trendy I tend to shop at Zara because it’s pretty cheap and fashion-y, so it allows me to take a bit more of a gamble with a different look without spending too much.
Also a simple idea could be carrying a tote bag with some funny/ironic saying on it, or a tee with something intriguing written on it.
Best of luck with it.

Chris987

Veteran

Thanks so much for all the very thoughtful replies, I’ll read them
carefully and reply over the weekend.

Gigi

Veteran

Lots of great advice above.

I used to be a very classic dresser. I now have a few different style personas, and it took quite a while for them to grow organically. Two of the three personas are quite classic in inspiration, though IMO they are much different from the type of classic outfits that I used to wear. Mainly, the cuts are different. So you can still keep a very classic style but change it up by choosing slightly different cuts (flowy, silky button-down instead of crisp button-down, for example; ankle pants instead of full-length).

I started changing my style up by buying just a piece here and there that was outside my comfort zone. My first wild card was a pair of leopard booties. I was very attracted to them, although my mind said, "That's not your usual style." I bought them anyway and loved them! So after that I made sure to buy isolated pieces here and there that appealed to me. Over time, a new style began to grow.

So one suggestion would be to buy a few pieces of clothing or accessories that are outside your usual style but that you are strongly attracted to.

The other thing that might help you is to go through your pinned inspiration pics and organize them in specific ways. I didn't have luck with inspiration pics until I found a blog post (I think on Into MInd) about how to make a mood board. The blogger recommended looking for inspiration pics in several categories: single color; silhouette; pattern; texture; overall mood; complete outfit; single item; item combinations; color combinations. The whole outfit doesn't have to please you; you just focus on one particular aspect of it. By focusing on only one category at a time, you can pinpoint what exactly it is in each pinned photo that you are attracted to. As I go through this process, I start to see patterns emerge, and then I can go shopping looking for things that made a strong appearance on my mood board.

cjh

(website)

Veteran

Interesting discussion! I’m not sure I have any real advice, just a bit of description on what I’ve done to figure out a retirement wardrobe that works with my lifestyle. One, I pick fits and use colors that I like and am comfortable in, more than going by whether or not “this is in style.” Two, I try not to be afraid to repeat wearing favorites, wear the good stuff, and resist duplication if that splits wears. Three, I’ve developed a uniform that feels like me. Currently that means sleeveless top, shorts and Birkenstocks or Converse. Moving into fall: crop or skinny jeans, short sleeve tee, cardigan, Converse-sometimes with fun socks. When I do the uniform every day, it’s really me.

My accessories aren’t as over the top as Iris (but I could possibly leave lifting weights out of my workouts if they were), but I like unique earrings from art fairs, colorful bracelets like tagua nuts or unique beads, and quirky necklaces like marcasite frog or stone pendants. An unexpected color combo or juxtaposition can make me happy and I hope that makes me look more fun and interesting.

Good luck and lots of fun on the style journey!

Chris987

Veteran

Thanks for the kind words SaraD8! I do manage to create some good outfits but I feel very inconsistent about it. (I don't show some of the lesser ones). I do have a huge scarf collection and also wear a lot of simple jewelry (except in hot summer) but that is certainly an area I could look into.

Liz, great idea, of course I should post some photos and pinterest ideas! I will do that.

Hah fashintern, so true...it's got to be authentic, not point in trying to pretend to like something I do not. When it comes to bright colors I sometimes like it, sometimes not. Sometimes traditional patterns are good, sometimes I want something more modern. Statement socks? Not for me. Love looking at them, not wearing them.

lisap - wise words about staying true to one's self. I too do not believe constant change is necessary or even a good thing, at least not for me in the world of fashion.

La P you totally nailed it with the moniker "Stodgy New Englander" It's perfect when going to visit a neighbor in 2 feet of snow on a cold winter night, but other times not so perfect! You seem to do a great job of keeping it modern which I suspect you do with a lot of online ordering. Great ideas to look at color combinations, footwear, jewelry, as ways to modernize a classic silhouette. And yes I did do that moniker exercise a while ago but I should probably redo it, great suggestion!

Janet, thanks for the wise words. Your experiences with blogs early on sound very familiar! I think I'll join you in that "fickle" club of loving a print for a while, then not so much. Maybe it's not so much "fickle" as a form of creativity. I too am often a contrarian with fashion, especially with colors, where I always seem to want something that's not "in this year". And yes that thing about sometimes feeling bold and sometimes not really resonates with me. Again perhaps it's a form of creativity. And yes the one little tweak is a GREAT idea and probably the best way to go to learn what would work for me.

Gretchen, the scarf ideas is great. And yes I could definitely try something a little different on a day when I'm not around my usual crowd. That's a great idea too.

Angie, if not for that pesky little commute I would be there to shop with you in a heartbeat! Maybe I should just plan a trip anyway. In the meantime, I love the idea of sticking with colors I like and trying a slight difference in silhouette or a wildcard. And yes I'll definitely put together two outfits. I know what one will be already Aha! "you have to wear your outfit, and no one else". SO OBVIOUS, SO TRUE!! I need to write down my signature looks. I already know that jeans and booties are involved. Great suggestions and I'll definitely go read those postings again.

Bonnie, yes Angie would be my first pick too.

Cardiff Girl, I was already thinking about the grooming/hair stuff as an easy way to try something different, great ideas!

Thanks RobinF. I love looking at your finds for inspiration...you and I have somewhat similar body types and like similar things.

Cindysmith...yes I mentioned Iris A but honestly I find her looks to be way too much color and detail, like visual clutter although in a pleasant way. Not something I ever want to wear but fun to look at and authentically her all the way. But you are right that adding accessories can be an easy and inexpensive way to try new things, and there are plenty of places to find inexpensive choices.

Rachylou interesting comment about dye. One more thing that is less interesting in less expensive clothing. I do wear burgundy and agree that it can be a great addition to a generally neutral wardrobe. Turquoise somehow does not appeal to me (although the stone itself does in small doses) but light blue and tan I do love.

Laurie, duh, why didn't I think of that :-). Great idea, I'll do that!

Jussie, yes shoes are an obvious way to change the look of an outift. I have to go through so many pairs to get ones that fit right and are comfy that I get a little worn out but I need to (as Angie would suggest) make a pot of tea and get moving! I've tried Zara and will continue to do so but their clothes rarely fit me so I only do it occasionally. You are right that they have a lot of different styles and nothing is too pricey.

Gigi - love your comments about multiple personas, most of us do have more than one. Your style evolution is pretty informative. One piece at a time...I found a pair of leopard loafers about a year ago that fit well but I found them too bold...maybe worth a revisit now. Your ways of organizing pinterest boards are really great...I will definitely look into that. I can see that a category called "more dramatic outfits" could be more enlightening than "burgundy capsule for fall". Thanks for the ideas!

Gigi - great ideas. I have a variety of different activities in my life and have given some thought to what sort of style work best for each, but a review would be a good idea. Interesting comment that perhaps Iris A has well toned muscles because oaf wearing all that bling - or maybe a sore back and neck

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

My examples on here were just that—examples to get you thinking. But you hit on the real thing in your post about the white shirt—menswear!

Anonymous

I agree with all, but also you have to dress for you first! I like to be bold and creative and dressy, but its authentic and lifelong to me. Im ok with seeing a trend, or someone wearing something great, and saying it doesn't mesh with my style/coloring/body type/climate/life. When things come around that feel right to me, i add them-sometimes long term, sometimes temporarily.
I say for each activity of life, figure out how you want to represent. If its separate distinct capsules, so be it.

Greenjeans

Veteran

How do you feel about the dresses you've tried over the last year? To my eye, they've looked lovely on you, feminine and elegant ranging from casual to more dressy with a slight vintage/preppy vibe that fits in with where you live and is also quite special.

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

Suntiger, I so agree with you when you say “Im ok with seeing a trend, or someone wearing something great, and saying it doesn't mesh with my style/coloring/body type/climate/life.“. Seeing people trying to incorporate something they know doesn’t work well for them—a color, a cut, whatever—absolutely mystifies me. Why do that? Is it just the thrill of a challenge?

Anonymous

I do try on things to be sure though as sometimes you dont know
I think people see others wearing trendy things and want to emulate, or try to pass in a certain environment where maybe they feel they dont fit in. A new job or around certain friends, etc. "If i wear this i will be seen as (professional, richer, younger, fill in blank)" but if it's not right i think you look more out of place, not to mention being physically and mentally uncomfortable. Plus you're just wasting money!
Theres so many sartorial choices we have that at and given time something will be right for us and all our life roles

Chris987

Veteran

thanks Fashintern!

Suntiger sounds like you've got your own style figured out well and yet also try new things...great place to be!

Greenjeans, thanks for the complements To be perfectly honest I never feel like myself in dresses unless it's a bit of an "event" although that does not have to be a big event. I'm not quite sure why because others seem to like them on me. Maybe I'll figure it out some day.

celia

Veteran

You have good advice already but I just wanted to say I feel where you come from, and might be feeling that a little bit with my work wardrobe.
I too am a short, curvy, pear shaped woman and classic cuts are just so easy to wear.However they kind of feel boring after a bit, but most of the times that is just what it is, a feel, because you do not looking boring.
You are at an awesome stage where you know what suits you, what you like and are ready to try new things.
I am looking forward to see the new paths you will take.

Anonymous

I like LISA P 's response.

I too am a classic, though now that I am retired it seems like a classic with a nod to casual/sporty. Shocker.

Yes- sometimes it seems like classic style can be boring or "too polished" especially when you see people with dramatic edge or boho flair posting on the YLF site. For my first few months on the site I started to do a lot of questioning and soul searching. Finally decided I can enjoy what others are doing and still be comfortable with me.

I think the fact that you have figured out how to dress for your body type puts you far ahead of most women in the world so YAY!

I think classic people can run into the same issues that people who are big on minimalism or capsule dressing experience. Day in and day out can start looking a bit "stale" .

What I did to combat this is:

1- I stepped up my accessories (I know that was mentioned) but scarves, purses and jewelry can go a long way.

2- I started looking at you tube fashion videos to follow bloggers- both young and old- who identified themselves as either classic or minimal/capsule dressers- to see what they were doing. Some are better than others. There is one in US and 2 in Europe that I now follow faithfully- they are old enough to be my daughter &/or granddaughter but because they a classic &/or minimalists they have great fresh ideas and combos that are not over top or scary for this over sixty classic.Because they are younger they also have a more limited budget which is great for this retiree;-)

3-The 2 pieces of advice they gave that stuck were - when you are feeling in a rut:

a) reorganize your closet/dresser in a different way because it can help you see your items in a different light (sounds crazy but it works- it just breaks the log jam in your head) and

b) take time to play with your things- take each item in your closet and see how many different ways you can style it. Get crazy, go wild and unexpected- you are in the privacy of your own home. Keep a log/or pics of each old and new combination (include accessories) and try to wear each combo at least twice and critic it on scales of comfort zone/ freshness, ease, relatable etc (pick your criteria). This has forced me to put more thought into my classic/basic pieces and does not allow me to "coast" or "idle" or "become lazy" or "slack off".

Since doing this, I have shown up for lunch dates with friends or family and someone always comments that they can not put their finger on it...but something has me looking younger (sometimes they think its the hair, make up but then they all land on my wardrobe)- they think something is new but they have seen it 100 times before. LOL- it's the same clothes- just a better spin!

Hope it helps

Greenjeans

Veteran

Chris, would you care to say more about what you mean by "never feel like myself in dresses?" What doesn't feel like you?

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