Unfrumped and Amy, I think shopping in stores we ordinarily don't try can be very informative and helpful. Even if we don't actually buy anything.
I remember the first few times I entered an H&M I was APPALLED. I really mean that. I was overstimulated, choked, almost on the surfeit of goods, dismayed by the poor quality and what I considered the harsh dyes, and unable to discern ANYTHING that I might actually want to try.
But I kept going in every once in a while, mainly because I saw people on the forum sporting nifty pieces they'd found there. And lo and behold, eventually I found something there, too.
I'll never be an H&M dresser from head to toe. But if I need a little spark to make an outfit pop at the last minute, especially for special occasion wear, you can bet I'll head there for a quick fix.
Una, it may have felt like a long time to find your style groove, but once you hit it, WOW!! You are a constant inspiration to me; I have seen you struggle. I have seen that it wasn't easy...and then I've seen it all fall into place. Thank you for sharing that process with us, and I hope you won't feel embarrassed for long.
Isabel, beauty every day is a necessity. And you supply it here with your warm, caring, incredibly thoughtful presence!!
Julie, I SO identify with what you are saying. I am a bit of a bleeping snob, too, as you can see from the above. But yes...it is worth at least checking the lower price point stores, because the merchandise does change over time, and even if it doesn't, one can get lucky!
RunnerRae, I SO identify with what you say, too. Online mistakes are so frustrating, and maybe a fact of life for those of us who live in Canada (assuming we don't want to confine our shopping to the Mark's Work Wearhouse.)
Junebug, it sounds as if you have come to a really good and more balanced place! A few mistakes a season is not bad at all, especially since you're also discovering new things to love. And if you can return the failures, that is just not a mistake at all, in my book. It's a try-on!!
Shedev, I would rather shoot for happy than perfect, too. Jayne's "happiness factor" is such a great way to measure an item and an outfit, I think. And if the moto would make you happy, YAY for holding out for it!
Manidia, you are always so thoughtful! And yes, please DO post more often!! It may be difficult right now, but we would love to see your outfits as pregnancy progresses and then motherhood ensues!
Sveta, I so feel your pain about expensive returns. But I agree about Nordstrom's. It is just so great that we can return items there for full credit. And once again, I sure am aiming for the NAS this year!!