I’m amazed but also really gratified that this thread continues to spark such a great discussion!
Bonnie, I’m sort of relieved that I’m not the only one having trouble making outfits with ease. It does feel like I “ought” to be able to be more spontaneous, but perhaps I just need to accept that that’s not how it works for me.
Jessikams, really intriguing idea about accessories. I do feel that I am often getting stuck at the “clothes” step. BUT then once I do get my clothes pulled together I am often out of oomph for adding accessories. So thinking ahead of time about these “sets” or “style stories” as you suggest could really help. (I suspect I would discover that I have some holes there, too.)
Jussie, yep, completer pieces. I think you’re on to something.
Staysfit, thanks for your generous post. This idea of questioning my certainty is really intriguing. You make a persuasive case. You know, I have resisted posting about style words/style statement etc. on YLF for a few reasons (partly because I’m not really at the start-from-scratch point a lot of people seem to be when they make those posts, so it sort of feels like what am I asking for; and partly because the idea of setting out a style statement makes me feel oddly vulnerable!). But maybe I should go ahead and post my current thoughts, and see where that leads.
At the same time, gryffin, I really appreciate your encouragement to go my own way! It’s helpful to hear the strategies you have found to express your own highly individual style — and also reassuring to hear that it isn’t exactly effortless. Five years! Ok. I feel less behind now. High-fiving my skirt-legging sister.
lyn67, yes, I know what you mean about different formulas requiring different elements. I am finding that I really prefer certain specific combinations of items. Maybe it’s not fair to my wardrobe to expect it to be pure mix-and-match, my aesthetic preferences just don’t work that way.
LaPed, athletic hourglass! I personally am not one but what a useful term and concept!
torontogirl, what a lovely post from start to finish. Thank you for the ponder-and-plan solidarity, and for the reminder to show myself grace. I truly appreciate your words.
ladypainter, oh how fascinating! I often think of myself as a satisficer. I am certainly a perfectionist in my work but in regular life I have seen how my partner has much stronger maximizer tendencies than I do. Perhaps I am a maximizer just specifically when it comes to wardrobe…but, having not recognized this tendency before, I haven’t learned how to deal with it. I don’t think I’m an absolute underbuyer…rather, I find it much easier to make purchases in categories that are "easier" for me. Then, I feel like I’ve bought — and wonder why the whole of my wardrobe is less than the sum of its parts!
In my defense, I just threw away an empty tube of toothpaste with nary a qualm! :laughing:
