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/...on-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...layer_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.

Turns out the clothing website is bodenusa.com

[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.

Turns out the clothing website is bodenusa.com

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

[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.