Janet - yes, too many trendy things can get me, too. But, I remember when I was in high school (maybe middle school?) when ALL the girls were dressing like pop stars - lace wrist bits, hair doilies, members only jackets, etc, and I wanted to do ANYTHING BUT look like them. I have always kind of done my own thing, and worn what I wanted (or could afford), but I wanted to walk a fine line between sticking out like a sore thumb/looking totally clueless and looking like all the other people. The minute I started looking like everyone else, I had to change it all again. I did have mall bangs... so I wasn't TOO out of touch ;).
Fathenry - I hear you! I feel like that in a dress. Like I am playing dress up in someone else's closet. Maybe I gravitate toward a more masculine element because my dad raised us and he wore blazers, slacks, and button up shirts for work.
Angie - It is nice to hear you have those items that you don't feel good in, too. I appreciate that you advocate for everyone's style and help them stay in their lane, while gently encouraging us all to take a chance and have fun.
Runcarla - I thought the exercises on style descriptors would have helped me have more focus, and they have helped in that I have a bit more confidence in my day-to-day outfits. It's the introduction of new or different things that really trip me up. You rock your colors (especially red) and never look kooky or loud!
Kate - me too! I prefer to enjoy most prints on others!
kkards - It seems like an elegant balance of looking like I tried, looking like everyone else, and then not looking like I tried at all.
TG - maybe a better solution is the answer. Especially for us more minimalist type dressers. I wonder if creating a "fun" capsule would work. Like a special occasion capsule, but with pieces that are practical for everyday use but OUTSIDE the comfort zone so you could bring them into play whenever you need a bit of something fun.
I tried on a pair of really cute, fun snakeprint booties recently. I LOVED them the minute I put them on, but then, as I walked around the floor of the shoe dept., I could hear this voice in my head saying, "What the HELL is on your feet?!?!?!" I looked at them in the mirror and my eye went STRAIGHT to them - and not in a good way. I felt like everyone was staring at me (when in reality they probably didn't even see me). Still, I thought they were FUN. So I brought them home. And they still sit in a box, while I try to decide what to do with them.
