Fashion ideas?

[GLC1968]

Where do I go for fashion ideas on a budget?

Basically, 15 years ago, I knew what was 'in' and how to dress my body. The two allowed me to look very nice, no matter what I was wearing or where I was going. Now, while I still know what does and does not work on my body, I have zero idea what is in right now. I still have a massive collection of clothing, but no idea about how to wear it. I've purchased a few pairs of tights and scarves, but I'm still struggling with looking put-together and not like I'm trying too hard...

How did I get into this situation? 10 years working as an engineer. ;) Now that I'm in a much more visible position at work (and doing a lot less crawling behind test equipment on a daily basis), it matters that I look good. Pulling out my old fashionable clothing and wearing it in the same way I used to wear it isn't going to fly. It's just going to make me look old/dated.

Give me your ideas of where I should look for inspiration, advice and instruction. Thanks!

[ny biker]

One easy and free thing is to pick a few websites and start browsing. Department stores like Bloomingdale's, Saks, Niemans, Lord & Taylor. Stores like Ann Taylor, Loft, Talbots, J Crew, Banana Republic, J Jill.

Even if a store's price points are higher than you want to spend, you can still get ideas from them. And you might find something on sale that's in your budget.

Also, if you haven't spent much time watching What Not to Wear, find it on TLC and start watching it. They tend to focus on things like proper fit much more than wearing whatever is in style this year, but you can get some good ideas from them on putting outfits together.

[GLC1968]

I have watched a ton of what not to wear, but like you said, they focus more on the right fit or chosing the right clothing for one's lifestyle/occasion. I can do that with my eyes closed!

My problem is putting together the things I already own in ways that are updated (maybe with accessories and things).

I didn't think of looking at online sites though, that makes sense. I do flip through catalogs, but I only get catalogs from places I order (like Athleta, jcrew and Sundance) so they just show me more of what I already know. I'll try doing more browsing online...good idea!

[jobob]

Oooh, great timing. I promised myself I would go clothes shopping when I reached my WW goal weight, which should happen in the next few weeks.

My wardrobe, be that as it may, consists mainly of Mom Pants ;) from a decade ago, so I need help too.

Thanks for the tips ny biker!

[grey]

How funny, I wrote a post on Iris Apfel today, because fropm her I learned fashion isn’t about trends. It’s about individual style. Wearing what you like, what appeals to you, what looks good on you – nevermind your age, nevermind what’s “in” or not. Fashion is truthfully about… you.

http://www.crisangsteninteriors.com/blog/2012/01/design-icon-iris-apfel/

Since I'm not likely to start dressing like Iris, I'll tell you what I do - you can pair older, classic items with newer, updated ones. I wouldn't get rid of anything you already have unless you just know you will never wear it again. If it looked good before, keep it, add a twist to it if you can with a scarf (like you mentioned) or a new skirt. Those pencil skirts are in - I have one but never was much of a skirt person (unless it's long, I love a loooong skirt).

Ann Taylor is classy, and enough business-related but still casual at times that the pieces can be flexible. Also check out Pinterest and type in "outfit" or even "brown pants" if you're struggling with what to pair with some now and see what others with more fashion know-how than I have put together.

Oh yeah, don't miss this video - cracks me up every time: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhYL3-xLfK4&feature=player_embedded

[limewave]

For nice clothes on a budget, I go to TJ Maxx. It's just about the only place I'll shop anymore. I've tried buying clothes from Target, Kohls, etc, but the quality isn't as good and the clothes lose shape or get pilly after a washing or two. The styles are usually on trend. I'm not that fashionable . . . so I tend to stick with neutral colors and clothes that fit well. Pinterest has been a good place for me to see the "outfits" that other women pull together. I have gotten some ideas about what is in style there and how to accessorize.

The other thing I do, if I have time, is bring a friend shopping! I get completely overwhelmed trying on clothes. I look in the mirror and suddenly have no idea if what I have on looks nice or not. A friend with an honest opinion is a great shopping companion. They can also help you pick out accessories, shoes, etc.

[GLC1968]

Grey - good idea about looking for specific items on pinterest! I've been searching for 'style' or 'fashion' and it's not helping much. I even tried 'looks' but then got mostly food photos with captions that said "this looks good!". Funny.

I do want to find a way to make my old things newer. I used to work for Polo Ralph Lauren, so the quality of the items I have are things I could not afford to replace (nor would I want to). I do need to find a good seamstress, because with a little tuck here and there, I could even make dated styles look great again.

Limewave - I used to be that 'honest' friend! I'm definitely good with what works for me and I do know what I like and what I don't...I'm just not creative anymore. I need inspiration!

Honestly, I'm a little afraid to go into actual stores because I fear that I'll just start buying stuff to 'update' my wardrobe. I really want to find some good 'how to's' on sorting through a massive wardrobe and getting organized before I start getting swayed by good deals and well-dressed mannequins. ;)

A lot of good ideas, all! Thanks!

[indysteel]

I'd second (or third) the suggestion that you look online at various retailers' offerings. Then go someplace like TJ or Target (or to your local department store when there's a sale...and there's almost always a sale) and see if you can replicate it. But I'd put quality over quantity if you can.

I've struggled with professional-ish wear myself. I'm an attorney, so I can't wear jeans or khakis as a general rule. I bought a number of suits and dress pants at one time, but I quickly grew to hate them. Styles seem to change rather quickly and dress pants can be very unforgiving when you gain or lose even just a few pounds. I'd add that a lot of retailers just stopped selling much in the way of suits. If I wanted to wear black 4 days a weeks, I'd be set, but I don't.

The answer to my dilemma has been the knee-length skirt. Pencil or A-line. Granted, I'm not sure my boss thinks (though he'll never say this) that I'm dressed up enough, but I honestly don't care all that much. In the summer, I pair the skirts with nice sandals. In the winter, it's tights and boots. I wear a lot of sweaters, summer and winter. I tend to spend more on my winter wear. Because they're often wool, the pieces will last a long while if I take care of them. I don't buy anything overly trendy and I stick with things I can mix and match. Most of my skirts come from Boden.com. The skirts are just "fun" enough in their design to seem youthful, but the cuts and length are generally work and age appropriate (I'm 42).

As for how to take things from your old wardrobe. First off, get rid of anything that just doesn't fit well. Second, look for cuts that are pretty classic. Pencil and a-line skirts never go out of style really. Stick with knee-length or just above the knee. Flat front pants, especially those that aren't tapered, hold up well over time. Cardigans, crew neck and turtleneck sweaters are usually timeless as well. Third, get rid of anything that is worn, faded or otherwise showing its age. Once you pare down your existing wardrobe, it might be easier to see its potential. Update your shoes and get some new accessories (perhaps some jewelry and some new handbags), and you could easily breathe new life into your old wardrobe.

Just as What Not to Wear emphasizes, fit is everything. A trend isn't worth following if it doesn't flatter your body. I know tapered pant came back into style recently, but I'm short with heavier thighs. Tapered pants do nothing for me. So, I don't care how "in" they are; they're out for me.

[jobob]

The answer to my dilemma has been the knee-length skirt. ... Most of my skirts come from Boden.com. The skirts are just "fun" enough in their design to seem youthful, but the cuts and length are generally work and age appropriate (I'm 42).

Great post Indy!

Though I took a look at the boden.com website and found ... custom millworking. :confused:

Turns out the clothing website is bodenusa.com :D

[shootingstar]

Still looking for another basic black skirt that fits me at not way too expensive price. This is how difficult it is for someone in our city @ 5'1" around 100 lbs. at my age, not @18 yrs. old. I cannot wear long skirts below my knee, it looks awful and dowdy on a small person. Unless I spend a ton of money for several whole new outfits.

We have other stores up in our end, but I'm in a city that's......not as fashionable or diverse in terms of clothing choice....in my size. (Meaning Calgary is not as forward/innovative chic as Vancouver nor Toronto if you want something mid-priced.)

I end up buying pieces rather than whole outfits because it's just been tough.

I've been appalled by alot of dress tops, either too wide up top, poor fabric quality, etc.: Really? But then, I haven't tried hard enough in past few years. I occasionally attend meetings which would require looking more tailored and polished. But thank goodness @ -44 degrees C temp with snow now, the dress code is abit more relaxed!

Sewing machine is in a different city but sewing again does mean beginning a process of fabric hunting, etc. which gets more difficult in a smaller city.

[spokewench]

For work appropriate attire, you cannot go wrong with:

1. Neutral slacks, black, blue, tan, grey, taupe. I don't know what your body type is, but think a little bit wider leg, not too high waistband (this is dated), but you don't have to buy the ones that fall off your butt!

2. Pencil skirts for a finished look are great. If you are short, have your skirts shortened or buy them at knee length.

3. A few good jackets, preferrably not boxy styles, but styles that come in at the waist and are not too long. Only wear a long jacket if you are very tall! So, what I'm talking about is shorter hip length with a sash or detailing so that the waist is defined. You probably want these to be in neutrals if you want them to stretch into a mix and match wardrobe, but I love a jacket in a color that pops like bright blue or bright apricot. If you have neutral slacks, you can pair those with an amazing lot of things

4. Nice well fitting blouses, or tops. This is where I usually try to find a pop of color too; or even some patterns (don't go too big with the pattern unless you are a large woman, then you can get away with a bit more).

5. Accessories are your choice. Scarves are nice, long necklaces, etc that accentuate your outfit colors. They do not have to be the same colors, just look well with the colors in your outfit.

6. If you can handle it, heels help an outfit. But, just don't wear real clunky shoes and ruin your classic look!

It is my opinion that classic clothes do not go out of style. Let your personality come out in the colors you wear and the accessories you wear.

This is pretty generic, but I don't think it is a bad start. I did see that you mentioned that you bought tights?? Tights to wear under skirts or tights just to wear? Tights alone are work out clothing or casual wear and probably not appropriate work attire.

[indysteel]

Great post Indy!

Though I took a look at the boden.com website and found ... custom millworking. :confused:

Turns out the clothing website is bodenusa.com :D

Thanks for correctly the website name! But at least I now know where to go for custom millworking! :D

[limewave]

I agree with the simple, black pencil skirt. I acquired one a few years ago and it has proven versatile, classic, stylish, flattering . . .

[GLC1968]

Oh wow, no, tights to wear under dresses/skirts. Looking for new ways to wear old clothes! I'd never wear tights to work (like with a blazer or a big sweater...even if it was appropriate for my workplace, which it's not...it's a look that is AWFUL on me!).

Trust me, after 7 years advising others what to wear for work and play, I have a very good idea of what is appropriate and what is not. Funny, but now I find myself advising recent college grads as they enter the work world. Luckily, the main rules don't change and if they are engineers...there are no rules. ;)

You guys are reminding me of how much I do know! OK, I need to get some time to dig into the big black hole that is my closet. I seriously have the equivalent of two bedroom sized rooms full of clothing AFTER dumping everything that I managed to shrink out of (that wasn't worth altering). I think I'm mostly just procrastinating at this point.

[spokewench]

For work appropriate attire, you cannot go wrong with:

1. Neutral slacks, black, blue, tan, grey, taupe. I don't know what your body type is, but think a little bit wider leg, not too high waistband (this is dated), but you don't have to buy the ones that fall off your butt!

2. Pencil skirts for a finished look are great. If you are short, have your skirts shortened or buy them at knee length.

3. A few good jackets, preferrably not boxy styles, but styles that come in at the waist and are not too long. Only wear a long jacket if you are very tall! So, what I'm talking about is shorter hip length with a sash or detailing so that the waist is defined. You probably want these to be in neutrals if you want them to stretch into a mix and match wardrobe, but I love a jacket in a color that pops like bright blue or bright apricot. If you have neutral slacks, you can pair those with an amazing lot of things

4. Nice well fitting blouses, or tops. This is where I usually try to find a pop of color too; or even some patterns (don't go too big with the pattern unless you are a large woman, then you can get away with a bit more).

5. Accessories are your choice. Scarves are nice, long necklaces, etc that accentuate your outfit colors. They do not have to be the same colors, just look well with the colors in your outfit.

6. If you can handle it, heels help an outfit. But, just don't wear real clunky shoes and ruin your classic look!

It is my opinion that classic clothes do not go out of style. Let your personality come out in the colors you wear and the accessories you wear.

This is pretty generic, but I don't think it is a bad start. I did see that you mentioned that you bought tights?? Tights to wear under skirts or tights just to wear? Tights alone are work out clothing or casual wear and probably not appropriate work attire.

[GLC1968]

Thanks for the Tim Gunn list. Again, reminds me that I do know what I am doing and I just need to DO it.

Seriously, I have probably 5 of every item on that list (25 in the case of some of them!). This is why I'm so overwhelmed and basically end up wearing the same things day in and day out. It's out of control. Most of my stuff is truly awesome, so I NEED to dig in there and get it out, get it cleaned, get it front and center so that I am inspired to wear it.

Part of my dificulty is also that I no longer wear heels (of any type), so all the pants need hemming and all the skirts and dresses look different than they used to. I need a day or two to just try on EVERYTHING, dig out shoes, put together outfits, etc.

Again, overwhelming!

You guys are certainly getting me inspired though! :)

[SheFly]

GLC - if you have lots of neutral colors in your wardrobe, update with a nice leather belt, colorful scarves (I work at Harvard Business School, and use scarves to dress up cords and a turtleneck in the office!), bright colored jewelry (that is simple, not loud).

As I have gotten older, I've determined my own style - lots of skirts and sweaters (mostly t-necks) and NOTHING that needs ironing (no blouses, no shirts). I can dress up a comfy t-shirt by adding a scarf, layering t-shirts, or putting on a nice piece of jewelry. Boots work in the winter with the skirts and some tights (add color here, too - gray dress, black boots, burgundy tights), and sandals in the summer.

You have the clothes - you just need to accessorize. I've also been in a position like yours - keep it YOUR style, not necessarily what's IN style. And whatever you do, DO NOT try to dress like the graduates you are hiring :D.

SheFly

[indysteel]

I just saw the suggestion that Muirenn (citing Tim Gunn) posted upthread about having a trench coat in your wardrobe. I haven't bought a lot of new items of late, but I did add two new coats. One is trench coat, the other is a wool winter coat. Both are camel colored, "car length" and tie at the waist. I adore both of them, and I think they've made me feel more jazzed about my wardrobe in general (which often feels pretty stale to me). So, don't overlook your outerwear!

[lph]

I doubt that my friends would consider me particularly fashion-conscious, and I do work at a pretty relaxed place. Still, I do hit on on a good look or two once in a while, and have bought some nicer dressier things recently. I wear a lot of thin wool longsleeved tops that are incredibly versatile. The nicest ones, usually with a zipper that gives a deep v-neckline look good with knee-length skirts, dressy pants, jeans - and I can wear them home cycling afterwards :D Crew necks look really frumpy on me so I'll add a scarf on those.
I also wear a lot of knitted dresses, some of them wool. The best look on me is sleeveless, since I have big shoulders that tend to pull at a closely fitted dress. My favourite is black and mid-thigh with a loose cowl neck, and looks relaxed with coloured woolly tights and flat shoes, or elegant with sheer tights and low heels. It also looks really cool with my 60's style knee boots.

I'm not going to win any trend prizes, but it's nice to feel I can choose to look stylish enough when I need to.

[limewave]

So, don't overlook your outerwear!


A few years back I had a very high-paying, executive-type job interview--in December. I really needed something new for this as my wardrobe did not accommodate this type of position. After spending the entire day shopping, I finally decided to get a dressy wool coat and stylish boots. I figured that would be the first thing they would see me and it would make the best first impression! It must have worked, I was offered the job! But turned it down because it was a very demanding position--and I wanted time to have a family, ride my bike, and play :)

[ultraviolet]

Depending on how much help you think you need, or if you're willing to spend a little money on getting help, you could look around in your area for personal stylists. Many offer a Closet Cleanup, or Shop Your Own Closet, service packages that can help you go through what you have, assemble new outfits, get rid of things that need to be retired, and come up with a plan to fill in the gaps. Most charge $200-$400 for this, and it's generally about a 4-hour time commitment.

If you have any particularly stylish friends, you could also reach out to them for help. I've spent years acting as "personal stylist" to many of my friends. It's gotten to the point that most of them try to pay me for the time I spend helping them shop, and I've considered establishing it as a business for myself.

[GLC1968]

Thanks you guys!

So many great ideas! Even just outfit ideas are helping me (thanks LPH & SheFly!).

I think I just spent too much time wearing nothing but jeans and an Ibex Shak (I have enough to wear a different color every day of the week...because when I was an engineer, I did!) that I lost my touch.

I was also a tad surprised when my boss (who is slightly younger than me) wanted to ask a fashion question so she went to one of the three 'fashionista' girls in the office. The thing is, those girls might know whats hot or trendy, but two of the three of them have zero clue what looks good on their bodies. I was shocked at how frumpy looking they both were at our annual party last weekend when both of them have nice bodies to work with. It just struck me that I used to be the one that everyone asked for advice. If they aren't asking now, I had to ask why and my only conclusion is that I must be slipping! ;)

[Veronica]

Do we wear the same size? :D You could ship some of that stuff down here.

Veronica

[GLC1968]

Do we wear the same size? :D You could ship some of that stuff down here.

Veronica

LOL, probably! Though my pants would all be too short for you. ;)

Actually, most of the stuff in the donate pile so far is all too big for me, so I'm sure it's too big for you as well. If I run across duplicates in good sizes, I'll offer them up!

I've actually already started a 'sell on TE' pile for bike stuff.

[Crankin]

GLC, did you say you don't wear tights?
That made me laugh. I have totally stopped wearing stockings with skirts or dresses, unless I am going out with DH and/or friends my own age. I try not to wear them to work, as I know it dates me. So, I wear tights from October through April. There might be a day or two in May or Sept. when it's just a bit too cool to go bare legged, so I wear pants.
And that's another thing. Not counting the fact that most people I work with dress like crap, even my boss and the other supervisor never wear skirts. What's up with that? I feel much more comfortable in a skirt, but I wear pants a lot more now.
I finally figured out my style is pretty classic/updated preppy, with some athletic type dresses thrown in. In the 80s I wore suits and in the nineties I still dressed up a lot for teaching. I gradually started dressing a lot more casually in my last teaching job, but now, it seems like the other therapists I work with wear jeans most of the time, which I don't think is OK.

[Veronica]

I gave one of my students The House on Mango Street to read. While reading it, she came and asked me what nylons were. :D

I tend to dress a little nicer than most of my peers, but there are a couple of older teachers who really dress up. The K teacher wears dresses and hose most days.

I'll wear a dress or skirt on Mondays - no recess duty :p - but it's with tights or bare legs when it's warm enough. Otherwise it's chinos, cords or jeans on Fridays and messy days. All my sweaters are cashmere though - warmth without bulk. Lands End had an awesome deal just before Christmas...

I struggle to find nice warm weather clothes.

Veronica

[Crankin]

I had to make some adjustments in my summer wardrobe this year, as this is the first year I've worked in the summer. I tend to wear Athleta type dresses, short skirts/skorts and tanks, or capris. A lot of what I wear is not OK for work, although I adjust for when I am going to someone's house who does not have AC. I have a few nicer sleeveless dresses I wore teaching, but they are not so comfortable for getting in and out of the car all day, like I do now. And, they are getting dated.
One thing I learned from living in AZ is that it's cooler to wear a dress. Nothing rubbing on your waist band. I never wear shorts, unless it's for an athletic activity. I feel more comfortable in capris.

[GLC1968]

I wear tights that are like hosery under dresses and skirts, but I don't wear leggings which some people call 'tights'. I'll wear them for athletic stuff, but not for work. My legs are NEVER cold though, so I only wear tights as a fashion accessory (which is why I had to buy some as I never bothered when I was an engineer).

Yeah, what is 'work appropriate' for my company is very individual. As an engineer, I could wear whatever I wanted (and hardly ever heels due to needing to wear an ESD strap on my shoes on the test floor) and most engineers dress like slobs. I refused to do so so I was always just kind of cute casual. If I wore jeans, it was usually only on a Friday and always nice jeans with a jacket or something slightly dressier so that I didn't look sloppy.

Now that I'm in HR/staffing, I'm not only seeing tons of other employees every day, but I see outside customers too. I should be wearing more typical business casual attire (most of my group does). I still keep my same jeans rule, but interestingly enough, most people in this department dress like slobs when they put on their jeans on Fridays. It's really weird to me. They dress nicer during the week, but much worse on Fridays.

The other piece of the puzzle is that I travel and represent the company a lot. When I do, I am expected to dress casual because we are a casual company. BUT, I need to wear company branded stuff as much as possible. I hate, hate, hate what I look like in a polo and khakis which is what most of the guys in my situation wear. I need to get more creative. I want to appear like a hip but mature woman. Finding that sweet spot between 'mom' and 'cool' without crossing into 'trying too hard to look young' is tough! ;) Toss in the company branded items (which are almost never 'cool') and you get a real challenge!

[indysteel]

The legal world in Indy is really interesting. When I first got out of school in 1996, lawyers still dressed up. Every day. My first job was at the Indiana Court of Appeals, and I always has a skirt or suit on, even though I spent all day, every day outside of the public view. From there, I went to a law firm. Again, I wore a suit or dressed up in some fashion every day, regardless of whether I had court or was meeting with a client.

Since then, I've been at a federal court and, as I indicated, I don't wear suits much at all anymore. My boss has been on the state or federal bench for the last 23 years and he has remained "old school." He wears a suit nearly every day. On Fridays, he dresses down a bit, but not much. Keep in mind that when he's on the bench, he wears a robe and sit's behind a tall bench. So, it's pretty difficult to tell what he's actually wearing underneath it. Most law firms, however, have really lightened up their dress codes, however. We routinely see lawyers on the street wearing casual wear or jeans. They only dress up if they have court. My boss has asked them about it and they maintain that most (though presumably not all) of their clients prefer that they're casual. My boss just can't get his head around that though.

[lph]

I want to appear like a hip but mature woman. Finding that sweet spot between 'mom' and 'cool' without crossing into 'trying too hard to look young' is tough! ;) Toss in the company branded items (which are almost never 'cool') and you get a real challenge!

That sounds like me, except I don't need to wear branded stuff much. Can you get away with wearing just a button or a pin? Or a cap or something else small? Or maybe just carrying a tote bag or briefcase with the brand name prominently on it? That would give you a lot more leeway with clothes.

We have some branded stuff too that I hate, but wearing it is optional. I try to look professional when we're out travelling, but luckily in my line of work professional equates rubber boots and goretex jackets ;)

Anyway. The hippest mom - and new grandmom - I know at work is also a cyclist, and wears lots of knee-length, colourful dresses. Not frilly feminine ones and not closefitting sexy ones, but semi-fitted, artsy detail, fun Pippi-like dresses without looking childish. A bit like some of these: www.desigual.com. And colourful shoes and boots. She looks fantastic.

[Blueberry]

Most law firms, however, have really lightened up their dress codes, however. We routinely see lawyers on the street wearing casual wear or jeans. They only dress up if they have court. My boss has asked them about it and they maintain that most (though presumably not all) of their clients prefer that they're casual. My boss just can't get his head around that though.

I think this must be regional. In my last larger firm, we got rid of the no "panty hose always required" for women rule in 2008 or so. At that firm, suits are still required M-Th and still strongly encouraged on Fridays (lawyer friends have been called out for wearing skirts/tops/heels in lieu of a suit). Overall, lawyers here still very much wear suits or at least very nice business casual most days. Jeans - not in most large firms and only in the smaller firms on Fridays for the most part.

Of course, opposing counsel showed up for a superior court hearing in a long knit skirt, form fitting long-sleeved t-shirt and knit "arty" vest (t-shirt material). I don't think the look worked period. I'm still trying to wrap my brain around that for Court. If I'm in Court (or mediation, or arbitration, or....) I'm still in a suit.

[GLC1968]

That sounds like me, except I don't need to wear branded stuff much. Can you get away with wearing just a button or a pin? Or a cap or something else small? Or maybe just carrying a tote bag or briefcase with the brand name prominently on it? That would give you a lot more leeway with clothes.

We have some branded stuff too that I hate, but wearing it is optional. I try to look professional when we're out travelling, but luckily in my line of work professional equates rubber boots and goretex jackets ;)

Anyway. The hippest mom - and new grandmom - I know at work is also a cyclist, and wears lots of knee-length, colourful dresses. Not frilly feminine ones and not closefitting sexy ones, but semi-fitted, artsy detail, fun Pippi-like dresses without looking childish. A bit like some of these: www.desigual.com. And colourful shoes and boots. She looks fantastic.


OK, that's the second time you've posted a link to a clothing site that left me drooling! It's probably a good thing I live where I do (where 'fashion' is often a new color fleece jacket!) or I'd be soooo broke! There were a lot of really cute, really unique pieces at Desigual. (the other one you shared that I loved had a lot of color block and retro looking dresses, if I remember correctly).

I do like the branded pin idea though. I'm throwing that one at marketing to see what they say. Worst case, maybe there is something I can put together for myself at zazzle or something (using company images)...

[goldfinch]

I think this must be regional. In my last larger firm, we got rid of the no "panty hose always required" for women rule in 2008 or so. At that firm, suits are still required M-Th and still strongly encouraged on Fridays (lawyer friends have been called out for wearing skirts/tops/heels in lieu of a suit). Overall, lawyers here still very much wear suits or at least very nice business casual most days. Jeans - not in most large firms and only in the smaller firms on Fridays for the most part.

Of course, opposing counsel showed up for a superior court hearing in a long knit skirt, form fitting long-sleeved t-shirt and knit "arty" vest (t-shirt material). I don't think the look worked period. I'm still trying to wrap my brain around that for Court. If I'm in Court (or mediation, or arbitration, or....) I'm still in a suit.

I was not a litigator, but an IP lawyer. I was the first woman to wear pants at my firm. I think it was in the early 90s or late 80s and the pants were a pantsuit kind of thing. When I retired the women lawyers thanked me for busting that barrier. Before that, it was suits, with matching skirt and coat, usually with a tie, and certainly hose. I hated those floppy ties we wore in the mid 80s. Felt like a Christmas present.

I also was the first to wear tights under a dress or skirt. Winters were cold in Minnesota. :) And odds are, the first to wear a pair of jeans. As the years went by I felt that as the senior woman I could dress as I pleased as the men would be mortified to criticize me. So, I always was gently pushing the barriers.

But the time I retired, about three years ago, there were lawyers at my firm that I still only ever saw in a suit, but there also were a fair number who were pretty casual. Though jeans were quit rare and usually only on lawyers that were just stopping by the office for a bit. The range of dress for women was all over the place, from a sweater with black or brown pants (which kind of was my uniform before I retired) to dresses to full blow suits.

[maillotpois]

Thanks for correctly the website name! But at least I now know where to go for custom millworking! :D

I will have to look at this website - and the one LPH posted!

It's funny, just home from a mediation and as I was reading the question I started formulating in my head almost the same response as Indy. Right now, I'm wearing one of about 8 identical above the knee skirts (http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/halogen-seamed-pencil-skirt/3093787?origin=category&resultback=2394) in different colors which I have gotten from Nordstrom over the last year, Pikolinos boots and a funky fun top. The skirts are Halogen, good quality, not too much $ compared to other stuff there. They go with anything.

I get by on the staple of a pencil skirt and tights/boots in winter and boots or pumps with no tights or hose in the summer. Pair it with a funky or sophisticated sweater or top depending on the circumstance, and I'm good to go.

[GLC1968]

Ah, the lovely pencil skirt. How I wish I could wear one but sadly, I am not cut for pencil skirts. A-line? Fine...but there is nothing pencil shaped about me! :p

[malkin]

I think I just spent too much time wearing nothing but jeans and an Ibex Shak

Hey! That's what I wore to work today!

I spend a lot of time on my knees in order to get eye to eye with kids so the knees of my pants and the tops of my shoes get worn out. And every day is a messy day for us. If the kids aren't at school, I wear something a little nicer, like good jeans and a sweater with no spots. :)

[malkin]

I do have a pencil skirt that I have never been quite brave enough to wear. Bright red. Leather.

It may be "professional" but I'm not in that profession!

[maillotpois]

Ah, the lovely pencil skirt. How I wish I could wear one but sadly, I am not cut for pencil skirts. A-line? Fine...but there is nothing pencil shaped about me! :p

I would have thought that, too. Seriously - hips that belie the fact that I had to have a C-section because things were too narrow inside. Nothing narrow on the outside here - all curve. But it works.

Funny because A line just hides the fact I have any waist at all. :p

[maillotpois]

:p

You win. !!!

Right.

:D

[azfiddle]

My middle school encourages "professional attire". A lot of the male teachers wear ties. I wear skirts more frequently in warm weather, but during winter it's easier to wear pants- dress pants or something like khakis. Fridays we can wear jeans and school shirt (tee or polo).

I often find it really difficult to find clothes that fit or flatter- even when I'm willing to pay $$, (which I can't afford to do most of the time). At 5'1" and with a generous bust and very short waist, a lot of clothes are just not proportioned for my shape. Even petite sizes seem to be cut for much longer torsos and fewer curves. Pants are generally easier to find, especially since I've lost weight. And shoes! A bunion/arthritis in my foot eliminate about 90% of all shoe styles as impossibly uncomfortable- especially narrow toes and high heels.

All that said- this discussion is making me want to go shopping for a some new clothes.

[ehirsch83]

Check out www.ruelala.com and www.gilt.com

You can find great sales(some things are still crazy on the pricing, but if you get it right you can get amazing clothes for a fraction of the cost!)

[indysteel]

My middle school encourages "professional attire". A lot of the male teachers wear ties. I wear skirts more frequently in warm weather, but during winter it's easier to wear pants- dress pants or something like khakis. Fridays we can wear jeans and school shirt (tee or polo).

I often find it really difficult to find clothes that fit or flatter- even when I'm willing to pay $$, (which I can't afford to do most of the time). At 5'1" and with a generous bust and very short waist, a lot of clothes are just not proportioned for my shape. Even petite sizes seem to be cut for much longer torsos and fewer curves. Pants are generally easier to find, especially since I've lost weight. And shoes! A bunion/arthritis in my foot eliminate about 90% of all shoe styles as impossibly uncomfortable- especially narrow toes and high heels.

All that said- this discussion is making me want to go shopping for a some new clothes.

Do you ever get any of your clothes tailored to fit? I know it's easier said than done, but Stacy and Clinton (of What Not to Wear) strongly urge women to use a tailor if they have unusual proportions. That said, as a short- legged gal myself, one of the reasons I don't buy a lot of pants is that I hate to get things altered, so I wouldn't fault you for not going that route yourself. Obviously, it can get expensive, but there are some stores out there (Nordstrom maybe?) that will make some alterations for free.

[GLC1968]

Do you ever get any of your clothes tailored to fit? I know it's easier said than done, but Stacy and Clinton (of What Not to Wear) strongly urge women to use a tailor if they have unusual proportions. That said, as a short- legged gal myself, one of the reasons I don't buy a lot of pants is that I hate to get things altered, so I wouldn't fault you for not going that route yourself. Obviously, it can get expensive, but there are some stores out there (Nordstrom maybe?) that will make some alterations for free.

Yep, Nordstroms and Banana Republic both do alterations for free on full priced items and for a fee on sale items.

When I worked in retail and was dressed to the nines every day (by requirement), I'm fairly certain I put my tailors' kids through college. It was awesome because I could buy stuff that really wasn't my size off a clearance rack and he could fix it for me for a fraction of what it would have cost to buy it full price. I wish I could find someone similar here. I can hem my own pants and all the 'curvy' styles out there these days have helped. My problem is that if a jacket or dress doesn't fit, I just don't buy it because I am afraid to tackle waists. That's usually where things don't work (if they fit my generous behind). That's why I don't own any pencil skirts even though I seriously long for one!

Hmmm....maybe finding a tailor/seamstress should be my first order of business.

[indysteel]

If it helps at all GLC, I buy a lot of my skirts slightly on the larger side because I do have a bigger butt and thighs than the rest of my frame might suggest. So, they end up sitting low on my waist. With a sweater one, you can't really tell though. Perhaps that's something you could do with skirts, too. I find that a lot of skirts don't have to fit as "just so" as pants do.