Home / alt.fashion / Friday, January 14, 2005

Your Shopping Makeover For 2005

"Vicki in DC" <Nickycharles2...@yahoo.com>
Who's shopping patterns have changed recently?
This is related to the moratorium because it has to do with what we are
not buying, but it's not identical because it also has to do with what
we *are* buying more of lately. Also, I know this thread was around a
few months ago but I'm sure some of our shopping patterns have changed
very recently, or since this thread was last active.
I'm buying less makeup,skin care,hair care, and bath stuff. I'm still
tempted but when I think of my huge stash, I can resist. Even the
Goldpearl Plum from Revlon isn't calling me because perfect as it is
for me, I have at least 2–3 other similar colors.
I have enough sleepwear, hosiery and underpinnings, even enough of my
beloved Nordies' nightshirts so I'm not buying any of these kinds of
things atm.
I have plenty of sweaters, skirts, jackets and T shirts now that I
finally found an emerald green turtleneck so I'm done shopping here for
the time being. I'm getting pants and jeans only to replace older pants
or jeans I'm getting rid of. If any twinsets are looking ratty or
faded, I'll replace them come spring.
No more hats, gloves, scarves since I have plenty. Actually I have more
than I need and should get rid of some before the weather gets too warm
for me to donate these things.
No new jewelry except earrings. No new hair doodads with metal clips.
I'm consinging or donating all my barrettes w/ metal clips and most of
the jewelry I don't wear (exception, sentimental pieces).
What I am buying:
New shoes to replace several pair of old, worn out shoes. Lately I've
gotten Larkspur collection loafers in leopard needlepoint and black
Hype sneaks. I tossed two worn out pair of shoes that were similar to
each.
Handbags. I can't resist a new one now and then, and my needs change. I
*need* outside pockets on all my handbags now. A few weeks ago I got a
Stone Mountain camel hobo and a Lesportsac Lola in the Rebel print.
Last summer I got 2 small Lesportsacs thinking I could pare down what I
carry and it never happened so I consigned them. Now I want the "bags"
deluxe everyday bag for spring 05 in the hopes I can consolidate my
tote bag and handbag during the week and the diaper bag and handbag on
weekends. I've consigned a bunch of bags that are going unused because
they're too small, too dressy or have no outside pockets.
Hair claws – I'm finding a few that look nice enough for work and
slowly adding them as I get rid of metal clip barrettes.
Fragrances – I get bored and need variety here. I'm ebaying fragrances
I'm not using anymore so I can justify getting a new fragrance this
spring and another this fall.
Earrings – EMD found Roman Glass earrings on a shopping expedition of
ours last year. I want some too when the weather warms up and I'm
wearing lighter colors again. I'm sure there will be others that call
me that I can't resist ;–).
Generally I'm trying to buy less, buy better, not buy duplicates of
what I have, and buy things I really love, things that get noticed. So
far so good. I've had compliments on a few already :–).
What's your shopping makeover for 2005?
Vicki in DC
"shinypenny" <shinypenny0...@yahoo.com>
Vicki in DC wrote:
What's your shopping makeover for 2005?
We are planning a once–in–a–lifetime vacation this Spring, so money is
tight for now and I am also on shopping moratorium. With that said,
there's a few items I'm probably going to need for this trip:
1) A fabulous spring–weight coat that will go with everything. Haven't
decided whether that's a trench or what. Still looking around. There's
a cute 3/4 coat being offered on Ann Taylor right now that looks
tempting. It is tweed or "tweed like" – can't be sure by the
description. One of those items that is best to try on first in the
store. BR also has a nice classic black trench but I'm not sure I want
black.
2) Cropped pants in a reddish or other fun hue. Wanted these last year,
but never found any that I liked. Still want them in a color that's a
little more fun that my typical khaki.
3) Comfortable yet stylish flat slip–on shoes suitable for sight–seeing
and tons of walking. I have been slowly adding to my collection,
weaning myself off of the heels. My feet are thanking me. I did just
see a pair of Coach khaki leather flats at Filene's Basement, 80% off,
unfortunately there was no price tag to tell me what 80% off meant! I
was in a hurry, and realizing I am on moratorium, I chose to put them
down instead of ask a clerk to check the price.
4) A pair of bootcut stretch khakis from the Gap. I know just the pair
I want, as I tried them on last month while xmas shopping but didn't
buy at the time. They fit great, were very comfortable, and will be
quite practical and versatile for our trip.
5) A jacket, maybe cordoroy, in a cheery color, to throw on with khakis
or jeans. This has been on my wish list since the Fall, but I'm still
looking..... I think this will be a great piece to have for the trip.
6) Tee shirts. Always need a few new tee shirts each year to replace
the ones that are worn out.
7) A skirt, not sure what type, something to go with flats or low heels
in case I want to dress up a bit on the trip.
8) A gift for my friend, who will be hosting us. She's a major
fashionista, so that part will be great fun. She loves J crew so I'll
probably get something from there for her.
jen
"melizabeth" <myfakeaddr...@nospam.com>


"Cherie" <cedgewo...@copper.net> wrote in message
news:41e9982...@newsfeed.slurp.net...

My shopping patterns have changed. For 2005 my motto is quality vs.
quantity!
snip of great post
I will be buying new bras this late summer/early fall. DD will be 1 year
in
the midsummer & I will no longer be nursing. I have told myself I am
going
to get a proper fitting & buy some nice quality & excellent fitting bras
that will make my "breastfeed 2 kids" boobs look wonderful.
I'm with you here, Cherie! Nordstroms does a pretty good job with bra
fittings. FWIW, Wacoal has a nursing bra. Haven't checked it out yet.
OT: when was your kidlet born? Mine is a July baby.
vamp...@aol.com (Vampkel)
i've been doing pretty well. last nite cleared out my closets of crap i'm not
wearing, and put most of it in a bag for goodwill. the other stuff i'll try to
ebay.
i'm focusing more on what i really want, instead of my usual impulse buying.
its working for me.
have gotten very picky when buying new makeup. i was very strong at sephora
the other day, picking up stuff and then thinking in my mind that yes, i have 3
of the same shade already at home.
my shoe and accessory spending has been non–existant.
and for every new purchase, i'm trying to get rid of something in its place.
so far so good!
––kel
"A new dress doesn't get you anywhere; its the life you're living in the
dress."
––Diana Vreeland
MicheleH <mharvey...@NOT.cox.net>
"Vicki in DC" <Nickycharles2...@yahoo.com> wrote in
news:1105741810.282792.119...@f14g2000cwb.googlegroups.com:
Who's shopping patterns have changed recently?
This is related to the moratorium because it has to do with what we are
not buying, but it's not identical because it also has to do with what
we *are* buying more of lately. Also, I know this thread was around a
few months ago but I'm sure some of our shopping patterns have changed
very recently, or since this thread was last active.
My shopping come to a dead halt, with the exception of baby–related
purchases. :) I spent a lot of time and money in the latter half of last
year buying lots of clothes and shoes and accessories and handbags (and
handbags, and handbags) so now it's time to pause and regroup and use
what I've got and get rid of what I don't need. It was especially fun to
buy shoes, as I'd spent most of my pregnancy in backless Keds because I
couldn't bend over enough to put on my own socks over my huge swollen
feet. Yuck.
What really got my notice in your post was that you consign handbags that
you don't need any more. I have two big laundry baskets full of handbags
(mostly Coach, mostly black) that I don't want to just give away, but I
haven't worked up the motivation to sell them on eBay. It would be
wonderful just to take them somewhere and hope to see some small amount
of money in return at some later time. I've been trying to find
consignment stores in this area via google with no luck as yet.
Where are you consigning things? I would be most grateful for any info!
Michele, saving up to buy a real Chanel bag on my 40th bday in June :)
Stacy Ferguson <stac...@stacyef.net>
In article <1105741810.282792.119...@f14g2000cwb.googlegroups.com>,
"Vicki in DC" <Nickycharles2...@yahoo.com> wrote:
Who's shopping patterns have changed recently?
This is related to the moratorium because it has to do with what we are
not buying, but it's not identical because it also has to do with what
we *are* buying more of lately. Also, I know this thread was around a
few months ago but I'm sure some of our shopping patterns have changed
very recently, or since this thread was last active.
I'm buying less makeup,skin care,hair care, and bath stuff. I'm still
tempted but when I think of my huge stash, I can resist. Even the
Goldpearl Plum from Revlon isn't calling me because perfect as it is
for me, I have at least 2–3 other similar colors.
Same here. It's not that I have no interest at all in the cosmetics but
it seems to me that most lines haven't been very innovative lately. Even
the packaging has been so boring that I haven't been lured to take a
look. Once in a while I might be interested in a new flavor of shower
gel but other than that, I feel like I've seen or smelled it all. While
I haven't declared a moratorium for the right reasons, I think I'll be
skipping Sephora and my usually thorough scans of the Nordies cosmetics
department for a while just because it has gotten boring. Right now, I'm
walking out empty handed a lot and that seemed to NEVER happen before.
I've taken a sudden interest in different types of handbags. I've always
gone for two extremes: either classic and not so funky (e.g. Coach
leather bags or my black Kate Spade messenger bag) or very trendy (e.g.
Biasia suede bag with long fringe and embroidered things on the suede,
some Fiore bags, the D&B Charm bowler, etc.) I never seem to go for
"trendy but not so trendy that I won't be able to use it in 10 years". A
couple Fiores, like my tote with the Border Collies on them, could be
used, I suppose, but I'm not in love with it anymore. Our real live
Border Collies are better that the bag anyway :) I've been looking at
different types of bags now, like the Allison Burns Faithfull slouch
hobo. It's definitely trendy (particularly the gold and silver
metallics) but since it's a hobo, that aspect of it is common enough
that it should be usable for years if I get it in a non–metallic color.
It's also a practical bag since it seems to both hold a lot and stay
close to the body when carried across the body. For me, "across the
body" and "holds a lot" typically means it's bulky and my arm may be
resting 18" from my body while carrying it so I'm interested in the bag
for that reason, as well.
For clothing, I'm looking at more tailored casual tops and dresses. For
business or formal stuff I tend to like both relaxed fit and tailored
things. For day–to–day casual wear I've always tended to only pick
boxier, relaxed clothing whether it's a cheap tee or a $300 piece. A few
weeks ago, I accidentally purchased a stretch tee that has a more
hourglass shape rather than the usual square/rectangle. I thought about
exchanging it for the other boxy style but I'm lazy about returns. I
only return things if defective. I tried the tee I purchased anyway and
was amazed at how much leaner I looked in it than in most of my tees so
now I'm actively searching out more tailored casual clothing.
My shoe shopping patterns haven't changed in around 23 years and
probably never will again. Once upon a time I was fine with
great–looking shoes even if they weren't comfortable. Since then, I'll
buy anything I like (classic or funky) but ONLY if it's comfortable and
that's been my primary consideration since I was an undergrad.
Stacy
"melizabeth" <myfakeaddr...@nospam.com>


"Vicki in DC" <Nickycharles2...@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1105741810.282792.119...@f14g2000cwb.googlegroups.com...

Who's shopping patterns have changed recently?
Mine have.
I will probably be purchasing less but paying more. I am now much more
interested in quality rather than quantity.
I don't need any more bags. I have a plethora of shoes. The only things
that I can see myself purchasing are some jeans and ditching some of the old
ones that just aren't right and finding some t shirts. I'm not in any rush.
kaype...@yahoo.com
Vicki in DC wrote:
Who's shopping patterns have changed recently?
This is related to the moratorium because it has to do with what we
are
not buying, but it's not identical because it also has to do with
what
we *are* buying more of lately.
I'm buying less makeup,skin care,hair care, and bath stuff. I'm still
No new jewelry except earrings. No new hair doodads with metal clips.
What I am buying:
Handbags. I can't resist a new one now and then, and my needs change.
IWe seem to have similar buying/not–buying lists. I'm interested only
in haircare and earrings at the moment and haven't even looked for
anything
else because I'm fairly content with everything else I have. I have
either
lost or broken nearly all my earrings for some reason this past year,
but I'm
*not* buying any high–end stuff. I just bought 2 handbags for
Spring/Summer, and
that should be it until July or so when I start browsing for
Fall/Winter. I
do keep buying gloves because I keep losing them. Fortunately, gloves
come
really cheap. kpr54
"cheryl" <czacc...@msn.com>
I did the ultimate makeover on myself – I just got a breast lift and
implants. Yes, alot of money, but when I think of all the money I
spent on beauty products over the years.....this is permanet. I'm
really pleased and won't be spending money on anything else just to
make me feel good.
"Claire in SF" <clairi...@aol.com>


"Vicki in DC" <Nickycharles2...@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1105741810.282792.119...@f14g2000cwb.googlegroups.com...

Who's shopping patterns have changed recently?
Mine. I did a major closet cleaning since summer. Some of them got tossed
simply because they were too dated but many of my clothes no longer fit.
I, too, have a full drawer of underpinnings that is overflowing and two full
drawers of socks and knee highs, etc. I am filling in the gaps in my
camisoles though with the selections from Old Navy. This includes nude,
white, and black camis, some with shelf bras and some without. Got more
today at the $5 price!
Needed some casual and work wear pants, so got some of those but I find I'm
so much better at shopping for bargains than I ever was before (thanks to
AF) so I am choosing some nice but low–priced options for the time being.
The main difference is that in the past I'd buy mid–range or bridge, and so
far I've not done that. I am also adding more color to my bottom pieces and
straying from my traditional black, gray, brown, navy palette. For example,
I bought some trousers in burgundy and in medium slate blue.
I needed to replace some coats with better fitting ones and will continue
with this next fall. I like to have a lot of outerwear options. Not as many
as *some* people have, but I need at least 5 or so substantial pieces for
rain and winter aside from casual outerwear like denim or leather/suede.
Other than those, I find I am buying more fitted items, keeping them and
wearing them.
I am not buying shoes and, actually, my shoe buying slowed down well before
2005. The only reason for this is that I have a nearly impossible time
finding shoes that feel comfortable on my feet, and I look at all price
ranges. I am not adverse to paying for shoes. Ask anyone who has shopped for
shoes with me...I'm sure they've gotten annoyed with my constant "no, this
one doesn't feel comfortable".
I have limited my cosmetics shopping for a few years though I have bought a
few items on some small sprees, and I loaded up at the B&BW sale. I am on a
body lotion moratorium; only replacements are allowed. Same with hair
products, but that is easy for me because I seem to have found what works
for me at present.
Claire
"Cherie" <cedgewo...@copper.net>
My shopping patterns have changed. For 2005 my motto is quality vs.
quantity!
I will be buying less body lotions, fragrances, and bath products. I have a
huge supply and will only buy these items on a need to replace basis.
I will not buy clothing just because it is onsale & its a "great deal". I am
a horrible impulse buyer & have been forcing myself to stop & think about
the item before I purchase it, so far it seems to be working. I am planning
on a MAJOR cleaning out my closet this spring & I will replace my clothing
with better fitting, better quality items. I am a SAHM so I only wear casual
clothing but I want to make better purchases that will last & wear longer.
I am not buying anymore drugstore cosmetics (expect Rimmel mascara). I have
done a huge overall of all my makeup & was amazed at the amount of drugstore
brand cosmetics that I had used only once or twice & just tossed in a drawer
never to be used again.
I am not buying any more handbags this year. I have an extensive collection
of Coach bags in various colors & have recently acquired the Louis Vuitton
Cabas Piano bag. This has been an excellent addition to my "handbag
collection" and I am set.
I will be buying new bras this late summer/early fall. DD will be 1 year in
the midsummer & I will no longer be nursing. I have told myself I am going
to get a proper fitting & buy some nice quality & excellent fitting bras
that will make my "breastfeed 2 kids" boobs look wonderful.
I will need new shoes for the spring/summer so again it will be quality vs.
quantity.
––
Cherie
"Cherie" <cedgewo...@copper.net>


"melizabeth" <myfakeaddr...@nospam.com> wrote in message
news:csdhaj$si...@hercules.btinternet.com...



"Cherie" <cedgewo...@copper.net> wrote in message
news:41e9982...@newsfeed.slurp.net...

snip of great post
in
going
I'm with you here, Cherie! Nordstroms does a pretty good job with bra
fittings. FWIW, Wacoal has a nursing bra. Haven't checked it out yet.
OT: when was your kidlet born? Mine is a July baby.
Oh I have a July baby as well, DD was born 7/04 & DS was born 8/02.
I haven't checked out the Wacoal nursing bra. I am actually using the same
ugly, boring, old lady looking nursing bras I used when I nursed DS. I cant
wait until I am wearing lovely, girly bras again!
––
Cherie
"cofarb" <do...@cofarb.com>


"Stevie" <privilegemagaz...@charter.net> wrote in message
news:ghwGd.845$lY1....@fe03.lga...

Scary topic but yes I have been changing habits
here's what I am scouting for.. more fashion, less cosmetics
1) a couple more pairs of shoes in fun colors–– I bought a pink metallic
over xmas. It's so cute. Not worn yet but soon!. I would love to find a
grey
or burgundy!
2) a tan/cognac/chestnut pair of boots
3) a great shrunken jacket or two.. been scouring ebay. may hit last call
because I need something to work with a cranberry cord skirt, camel cord,
brown cord and some other skirts where I can have the jacket play the
neutral and be fairly casual. Don't want or need formal, dressy jackets.
(those are totally covered)
Found out last week I needed at least one!
4) a couple more little blouses and if they are sheer (which I bo ught
about
3 of those) I need some camisoles with lacy details. (I need black, soft
pink, beige.. )
any suggestions here on where to find these things?
Stevie
For the sheer tops, I recommend Sweet Pea. There are usually some at
Bluefly.com (though not necessarily at great prices). Nordstrom carries the
brand, too. They are "pretty" and seem to be well made considering how
sheer they are. They're washable, too––a big plus in my book.
cofarb
"Stevie" <privilegemagaz...@charter.net>
Scary topic but yes I have been changing habits
here's what I am scouting for.. more fashion, less cosmetics
1) a couple more pairs of shoes in fun colors–– I bought a pink metallic
over xmas. It's so cute. Not worn yet but soon!. I would love to find a grey
or burgundy!
2) a tan/cognac/chestnut pair of boots
3) a great shrunken jacket or two.. been scouring ebay. may hit last call
because I need something to work with a cranberry cord skirt, camel cord,
brown cord and some other skirts where I can have the jacket play the
neutral and be fairly casual. Don't want or need formal, dressy jackets.
(those are totally covered)
Found out last week I needed at least one!
4) a couple more little blouses and if they are sheer (which I bo ught about
3 of those) I need some camisoles with lacy details. (I need black, soft
pink, beige.. )
any suggestions here on where to find these things?
Stevie


"Vicki in DC" <Nickycharles2...@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1105741810.282792.119...@f14g2000cwb.googlegroups.com...

Who's shopping patterns have changed recently?
This is related to the moratorium because it has to do with what we are
not buying, but it's not identical because it also has to do with what
we *are* buying more of lately. Also, I know this thread was around a
few months ago but I'm sure some of our shopping patterns have changed
very recently, or since this thread was last active.
I'm buying less makeup,skin care,hair care, and bath stuff. I'm still
tempted but when I think of my huge stash, I can resist. Even the
Goldpearl Plum from Revlon isn't calling me because perfect as it is
for me, I have at least 2–3 other similar colors.
I have enough sleepwear, hosiery and underpinnings, even enough of my
beloved Nordies' nightshirts so I'm not buying any of these kinds of
things atm.
I have plenty of sweaters, skirts, jackets and T shirts now that I
finally found an emerald green turtleneck so I'm done shopping here for
the time being. I'm getting pants and jeans only to replace older pants
or jeans I'm getting rid of. If any twinsets are looking ratty or
faded, I'll replace them come spring.
No more hats, gloves, scarves since I have plenty. Actually I have more
than I need and should get rid of some before the weather gets too warm
for me to donate these things.
No new jewelry except earrings. No new hair doodads with metal clips.
I'm consinging or donating all my barrettes w/ metal clips and most of
the jewelry I don't wear (exception, sentimental pieces).
What I am buying:
New shoes to replace several pair of old, worn out shoes. Lately I've
gotten Larkspur collection loafers in leopard needlepoint and black
Hype sneaks. I tossed two worn out pair of shoes that were similar to
each.
Handbags. I can't resist a new one now and then, and my needs change. I
*need* outside pockets on all my handbags now. A few weeks ago I got a
Stone Mountain camel hobo and a Lesportsac Lola in the Rebel print.
Last summer I got 2 small Lesportsacs thinking I could pare down what I
carry and it never happened so I consigned them. Now I want the "bags"
deluxe everyday bag for spring 05 in the hopes I can consolidate my
tote bag and handbag during the week and the diaper bag and handbag on
weekends. I've consigned a bunch of bags that are going unused because
they're too small, too dressy or have no outside pockets.
Hair claws – I'm finding a few that look nice enough for work and
slowly adding them as I get rid of metal clip barrettes.
Fragrances – I get bored and need variety here. I'm ebaying fragrances
I'm not using anymore so I can justify getting a new fragrance this
spring and another this fall.
Earrings – EMD found Roman Glass earrings on a shopping expedition of
ours last year. I want some too when the weather warms up and I'm
wearing lighter colors again. I'm sure there will be others that call
me that I can't resist ;–).
Generally I'm trying to buy less, buy better, not buy duplicates of
what I have, and buy things I really love, things that get noticed. So
far so good. I've had compliments on a few already :–).
What's your shopping makeover for 2005?
Vicki in DC
"Stevie" <privilegemagaz...@charter.net>


"cofarb" <do...@cofarb.com> wrote in message
news:wvednYvE5f5zVXfcRVn–...@adelphia.com...

"> >
For the sheer tops, I recommend Sweet Pea. There are usually some at
Bluefly.com (though not necessarily at great prices). Nordstrom carries
the
brand, too. They are "pretty" and seem to be well made considering how
sheer they are. They're washable, too––a big plus in my book.
cofarb
do they have a more blouse type style? I have a couple sweet pea things. I
have a couple of other non sweet pea versions. What ideally I am looking for
is a marc jacobs or more short sleeved button front blouse with or w/o a
collar in a chiffon or charmeuse (can be silk or not) that doesn't always
have to be tucked in
Stevie
"cofarb" <do...@cofarb.com>


"Stevie" <privilegemagaz...@charter.net> wrote in message
news:iUCGd.993$dS6....@fe03.lga...



"cofarb" <do...@cofarb.com> wrote in message
news:wvednYvE5f5zVXfcRVn–...@adelphia.com...

the
have a couple of other non sweet pea versions. What ideally I am looking
for
is a marc jacobs or more short sleeved button front blouse with or w/o a
collar in a chiffon or charmeuse (can be silk or not) that doesn't always
have to be tucked in
Stevie
It's funny you should ask. I was just perusing my latest issue of In Style
and they had a page of "best camp shirts" and I realized I almost never wear
any buttondown shirts as shirts. (Which is to say that I do sometimes wear
an unbuttoned buttondown shirt instead of a cardigan.) I think it is
probably because I don't shop petites so buttowndowns are usually too much
fabric for me and, if I'm going for a less–than–casual look, I don't want to
be drowning in fabric––even sheer fabric.
cofarb
"bumblebee4451" <bumblebee4...@yahoo.com>
Right now my closets are packed with clothes. I am going to buy mostly
shoes and jewelry. I figure I can wear these even if I lose weight,
and I can accessorize things I already have. I might buy some things
at Chicos that are stretchy because they will expand or contract with
my diet!!!!
I know I probably will find somethings I want in the future....I can
never completely stop buying but I will concentrate on cleaning out my
closet and donated old things to charity and making use of what I
already have. It seems I only really wear 20 percent of my clothes. I
don't know why cause I like so many of the other things I have it only
seems hard to put outfits together with them.
I will also clean out my perfume cache and buy a few new kinds.
"ahmward" <nospam.ahmw...@yahoo.com>
This spring I will buy clothes in smaller sizes. I lost weight last
year but bought few summer items in my new smaller size so I am excited
about clothes shopping for spring. I really try to look for one or two
great outfits and focus on quality rather than quantity.
Audrey
"Claire in SF" <clairi...@aol.com>


"ahmward" <nospam.ahmw...@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:NZWdnXF2fIDVo3HcRVn–...@giganews.com...

This spring I will buy clothes in smaller sizes. I lost weight last
year but bought few summer items in my new smaller size so I am excited
about clothes shopping for spring. I really try to look for one or two
great outfits and focus on quality rather than quantity.
Audrey
That is a good strategy yet one I can never stick to ;) Boredom sets in. I
seem to need a lot of variety.
Claire
Evie <lemoncl...@planet–nojunk.nl>
I am trying *not* to lose any more weight this year so I can actually
still buy clothes in the women's (not children's) department. I'm down
to 98 lbs (5 feet 4 inches) due to a punishing travel schedule which has
completely screwed up my eating routine. Fortunately when I am in San
Francisco, Claire takes me to the most wonderful lunch places.
Because of the insane sizing of US clothing retailers I can buy only
petite size 0 at places like Banana Republic and Ann Taylor. Surely
there are people shorter and thinner than me? Fortunately at agnes b.
shops in France I'm still a good old size 36.
Evie
Claire in SF wrote:


"ahmward" <nospam.ahmw...@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:NZWdnXF2fIDVo3HcRVn–...@giganews.com...

That is a good strategy yet one I can never stick to ;) Boredom sets in. I
seem to need a lot of variety.
Claire
"cofarb" <do...@cofarb.com>


"Evie" <lemoncl...@planet–nojunk.nl> wrote in message
news:csjsr1$45...@reader13.wxs.nl...

I am trying *not* to lose any more weight this year so I can actually still
buy clothes in the women's (not children's) department. I'm down to 98 lbs
(5 feet 4 inches) due to a punishing travel schedule which has completely
screwed up my eating routine. Fortunately when I am in San Francisco,
Claire takes me to the most wonderful lunch places.
Because of the insane sizing of US clothing retailers I can buy only
petite size 0 at places like Banana Republic and Ann Taylor. Surely there
are people shorter and thinner than me? Fortunately at agnes b. shops in
France I'm still a good old size 36.
Evie
In my experience BR "0P" is immense! Okay, not exactly immense, but pretty
big for a non–size size! Maybe you should try some different brands. The
quality is variable, but I've found that H&M stuff runs really small. It's
an old adage that quality brands run large (you pay for the supposed
flattery), but there are a few decent brands that run smaller than BR.
Try to take care of yourself––eat better, get more exercise (which will not
only build muscle mass but also might improve your appetite). And enjoy
those lunches with Claire!
cofarb
"Dariss" <dari...@yahoo.com>
Who's shopping patterns have changed recently?
Oh, my life is different now. I've got plans! I've never really planned
before.
Right now I'm in the market for a lightweight tweedy mini–blazer, two or
three strands of [considering budget here, most likely faux] black pearls, a
soft pink satin strappy top, a slinky black v–neck or two, new fitted black
pants, and a fun colorful bag. My wardrobe is full of clothes that grew too
large or just don't fit. Some are simply too old, and just how many old
sweaters does one need anyway? So I have a big bag for donations and a new
life ahead. I hope:)
And a new mascara. My cosmetics moratorium is a new and exciting change.
Maybe I'll need new powder later, but that's all there will be for at least
several months. For the first time in years I believe I'll be able to use up
things. :)
KMS <badgerda...@puttyhead.combustible>
Vicki in DC wrote:
Who's shopping patterns have changed recently?
Mine! For the first time ever, I have chosen a color palette for the
upcoming season (Spring here in the US) and am making my purchases based
on that. I think I have probably done this before on some unconscious
level, but this time it's been very deliberate based on a few pieces I
was drawn to when the spring clothes first came out. I'm trying to buy
basic pieces and accessories in the colors I've chosen (white, lavender,
aqua and silver), while desperately trying to resist things that *don't*
fit into my palette. My hope is that I can mix and match some nice
outfits that will also incorporate some stuff I already have in my
wardrobe.
I guess y'all will be my witnesses as to whether this works or not as
the weather warms up and I start wearing some of my new duds!
–KMS
"Claire in SF" <clairi...@aol.com>


"KMS" <badgerda...@puttyhead.combustible> wrote in message
news:okWJd.76054$Z%.56...@fe1.texas.rr.com...

Vicki in DC wrote:
Mine! For the first time ever, I have chosen a color palette for the
upcoming season (Spring here in the US) and am making my purchases based
on that. I think I have probably done this before on some unconscious
level, but this time it's been very deliberate based on a few pieces I
was drawn to when the spring clothes first came out. I'm trying to buy
basic pieces and accessories in the colors I've chosen (white, lavender,
aqua and silver), while desperately trying to resist things that *don't*
fit into my palette. My hope is that I can mix and match some nice
outfits that will also incorporate some stuff I already have in my
wardrobe.
I guess y'all will be my witnesses as to whether this works or not as
the weather warms up and I start wearing some of my new duds!
–KMS
Great way to characterize it. I usually try to work around a pair of colors,
and then use different accent colors.
"Claire in SF" <clairi...@aol.com>


"cofarb" <do...@cofarb.com> wrote in message
news:DsSdndvtcOHzEXDcRVn–...@adelphia.com...



"Evie" <lemoncl...@planet–nojunk.nl> wrote in message
news:csjsr1$45...@reader13.wxs.nl...

In my experience BR "0P" is immense! Okay, not exactly immense, but
pretty
big for a non–size size! Maybe you should try some different brands. The
quality is variable, but I've found that H&M stuff runs really small.
It's
an old adage that quality brands run large (you pay for the supposed
flattery), but there are a few decent brands that run smaller than BR.
Try to take care of yourself––eat better, get more exercise (which will
not
only build muscle mass but also might improve your appetite). And enjoy
those lunches with Claire!
cofarb
Today I bought some cords at J. Crew (dark aqua) and, based on how low a
size I had to get, I think J. Crew needs to be added to the list along with
AT and Banana. I said "low" size rather than "small" size because it's not
that I needed to buy smaller fitting pants, it's just that the size number
was lower, lol!
While I guess it is a good thing many stores are serving the higher end of
sizes since the average size in the US increased, obviously in order to
accommodate the extended sizes in the same stores (without increasing square
footage of stores) the smaller sizes were eliminated.
The old adage that quality brands run large is just that, old. Some quality
brands may still run large (I know my Ellen Tracy and Dana Buchman stuff
always ran one size large), but these days it's just a mass merchandising
strategy in the US apparel industry in order to capture the ballooning
American body.
Claire
KMS <badgerda...@puttyhead.combustible>
Claire in SF wrote:


"KMS" <badgerda...@puttyhead.combustible> wrote in message
news:okWJd.76054$Z%.56...@fe1.texas.rr.com...

Great way to characterize it. I usually try to work around a pair of colors,
and then use different accent colors.
That's how I'm trying to do it, too. White (primarily) and lavender
(secondarily) are the base colors and aqua and silver are the accents.
This actually makes shopping so much easier because instead of aimlessly
browsing and hoping something catches my eye, I'm able to zero in on
stuff and either accept or reject it fairly quickly. I have no idea why
it took me so long to figure this out!
–KMS
"Claire in SF" <clairi...@aol.com>


"KMS" <badgerda...@puttyhead.combustible> wrote in message
news:YG6Kd.89950$Z%.31...@fe1.texas.rr.com...

Claire in SF wrote:
That's how I'm trying to do it, too. White (primarily) and lavender
(secondarily) are the base colors and aqua and silver are the accents.
This actually makes shopping so much easier because instead of aimlessly
browsing and hoping something catches my eye, I'm able to zero in on
stuff and either accept or reject it fairly quickly. I have no idea why
it took me so long to figure this out!
–KMS
It's an ideal concept, it's just harder for me to implement well in RL than
I think it will be. I still aimlessly browse and then get caught by other
things!
Claire