I've kinda come full circle too. My biggest problem was buying into trends that really didn't suit me. like mint, or pastels in general. Now instead of buying pieces that sit unworn in my closet, I just enjoy the trends on others while I wear the colors and styles that suit me.
I think the jacket really suits your style Deb. You carry off a style that is both arty and sophisticated, but never age inappropriate. Banish the thought.

Deborah I think it was a combination of aging, weight gain & the move to SA all at once that just threw me - I didn't know how to dress the new body in the new climate. I also had to face the fact that black was no longer flattering on me. Pretty big issues for a Melbourne girl

I forgot to mention the jacket before & agree with Suz this jacket is YOU. I would wear it too - it's one of the areas where our styles overlap I think.

The day coat - you made me laugh out loud - I had one too. It was beautiful (Trelise Cooper) & not very me. I did get a season out of it by wearing it with jeans & tees before selling it. When I start looking at all the lovely spring florals I just remember that coat & walk away. Just because they are beautiful doesn't mean they belong on my back.

I've really enjoyed this post - thanks How is your new baby going?

Oh Deb that's so true. And a milestone - being able to let something be beautiful and not be ours. I'm glad you said that, and Shevdev too about enjoying a trend on others instead of needing to have it on ourselves. That's one thing that grows on you at YLF-appreciating how great a look is on someone else when it's so right for them, even knowing how wrong it would be on you. And being glad both for appreciating it and for recognizing you don't need to go there.