One type of item I’ve noticed ends up unworn is anything that requires complicated donning, so to speak: shoes with long laces that have to be tied just so around the ankle, Victorian style blouses with 50 teeny buttons, a dress where you need another person to zip you up or help you get out of it... I want the process of getting dressed to be smooth and casual, not a Broadway production requiring three backstage dressers.
I so agree with you. When I go shopping in person, the number one criteria is easy to put on and take off by myself! If I struggle in those, it is a NO no matter how pretty the item is. I love the look of those teeny buttons on delicate fabric , but I hate to work on them after multiple first-hand experience. I suspect the purpose of those buttons is to prevent unwanted sex. LOL!
And items that require different undergarments than your usual ones! If I have to muck around with a strapless bra, I'm simply not going to be in the mood 9 times out of 10!
Love your view about boring basics. So agree all basics are not equal! Have learned to hold out for the perfect item rather than purchase the "close" items. Hard lesson learned after multiple black pant and tshirt purchases! My perfect items are modern classic with a twist.
Brilliant episode! Such a fresh perspective, because I feel like so many of these videos can be redundant in the sense that they’re about not buying trendy pieces, someone else’s capsule wardrobe essentials, or the fantasy self. Most of these were so new to me! I especially love the shoe tip about the sole coming over the upper, since I walk and talk transit every day. Although I do gravitate toward heritage styles like the blundstone and converse, I feel like it’s a treat each time I put them on.
Thanks Emily ❤! I often hear those too and while they’re SO valuable to know it can definitely get repetitive haha. The shoe tip is one I always stick by as sadly too many shoes don’t work out because the design wasn’t made for heavy walking. Thanks again for watching 🥰🥰
That's a really good point about matching fabric types with the style and the season in which you would wear it, you said it very well. Thanks for pointing it out.
I live in a place where the summer is very hot and winter very cold - there is no "in-between". I have a lot of fall-pieces like light sweaters and jackets, but with your video I realize I never wear them because we go from like 35 degrees to 5 in less than a month ! (Sorry for my english it is not my native language but I'm happy I understood almost all your video !)
I agree!! I find that Helen always has such great insight with fashion, i always find myself using her tips and i feel like a much more mindful consumer now
I agree with all of these. I bought a medium bag (from Dooney and Burke) that I loved the look of, not realizing that it’s so very heavy, at least 5-6 lbs. empty. I rarely choose it, it just is too uncomfortable and the narrow strap cuts into my shoulder, even empty. That bag is the reason I rarely choose cross-bodies anymore, the straps are thin, so any weight at all is uncomfortable. It’s hard to find traditional shoulder bags with wider straps these days, brands love those “convertible” cross-body ones, but I don’t.
I m just the opposite, so I know what you mean. I know everyone thinks crossbody is lame, but I need them. I just cant take the chance of forgetting my bag, so I need it to hang off me. The only shoulder bags I can even consider are the Gucci Jackie bags because they are almost like a cross body in that you can do things with both hands while they stay on your shoulder.
I like this really well thought out analysis of what works for you vs not. I feel like I don’t have this deep of a grasp yet on this for my own wardrobe.
I agree with some of these but for the chunky knitwear and heavy jackets, I do need those lol. As a Canadian, winter goes on for half a year, so chunky knitwear is very fitting and cozy for homewear while heavy jackets are good for the cold and to block the wind.
The sole thing has been a life changer, great advice!! I also walk everywhere and noticed my flattered flats wore so quick.. and it was exactly the sole thing
Every single one of these was useful to me! As someone who’s been harped on about quality clothes since I was a kid, I found a lot of these new and gave me a lightbulb moment.
Completely agree, the type of fabric should match the season of the year. Making a top with wool doesn't make much sense. The funny thing is that some time ago, I was discussing this with someone else. Great content!
Such a good video. So true about why statement pieces and basic pieces needing to be perfect. I personally love unlined wool coats because I like the relaxed flowy movement, but I think that's a pretty niche opinion.
I also like unlined wool coats as it is more flowy , also because I live in Houston where the winter is very mild. Unlined wool coat keeps me warm enough.
With one exception, I don’t buy or wear any synthetic materials, either in fabrics (even in blends) or in footwear. Synthetic fibers are just plastics made from petrochemicals. They don’t breathe at all, don’t look good and give me skin rashes. The only exception I wear is those pleated polyester skirts, they don’t seem to come in any other fabric and I love the look and feel of swishy pleated skirts when I walk. I have to wear a genuine silk petticoat under them, though, to prevent skin contact. There is no such thing as “high-quality” polyester, nylon or acrylic. The only reason brands use them is to cut their manufacturing costs and so push their profits to astronomical levels. The don’t add any benefit whatsoever, all that “tech fabric” language is just advertising nonsense. It’s not as cheap or easy to acquire an all-natural material wardrobe, but it’s the key to a quality look, long-lasting items and comfort. Synthetics are neither recyclable, nor biodegradeable, nor desired by secondhand buyers or even if given free or donated, they inevitably end up in our landfills and oceans. They have no intrinsic value or aesthetic benefit, they only will downgrade one’s appearance. If on a lower budget or just starting out in your wardrobe upgrade, I suggest checking out Quince for natural-fiber options. They make the best silk skirts of all, for example, at the incredibly low price of $60 US (I have no brand affiliations, just love this one and some others that use natural materials).
Pleats fall out of natural fabrics when washed! The “no iron” quality of polyester fabric means that your pleated skirt stays pleated. If not for polyester, pleats would only be a high fashion fabric since you’d need to re-pleat the skirt after every wear! Also nylon is superior for exercise clothing as it retains stretch and is rip resistant. I don’t want my sports bra made of natural fabrics because it won’t provide any support. Not all synthetic fabrics are evil, there’s lots of grey area to the discussion!
I did research that pleats are always in polyester as the fabric holds onto the shape (as mentioned above :) ) I guess the other exception is any outdoor wear eg for camping hiking exercise etc where they’re very important in moisture wicking. But other than these, I do esp love natural fibres ❤
It's not true that natural fabrics won't hold pleats. To the contrary - there is an old process that will make fabrics like linen hold pleats as long as the fabric itself lasts - but I don't thinks it's commercially viable on mass production scale. I remember wondering at how sharp pleats were on an old linen/cotton skirt my mother had while ironing it. It was probably worn for 20 years by then. If you are interested, I think there was a short demo of the process in "savoir faire dior spring summer 2011" video (edit: I double checked, the time stamp is 27:10, showscreating pleats in silk organza in a steam room) which I think is on UA-cam. I still own a few pleated non-polyesters, all pre-dating 2000s by a large margin. Soooo... thrifting for the rescue and good luck in your searches!
Totally on board with weight issue. I hate heavy bags shoes and coats with a passion!!!! As a retiree, my lifestyle is casual daily. Recently I took a month long trip that involved cross country drive, cruise, and city walking. I pretty much wore a pair of classic Teva sandals daily (except cruise dinners). I have these sandals for over 20 years but forgot about them until before the trip. I wore SmartWool socks with them and never got tired feet or in danger of falling. Weird how this style of sandals I thought too manly or Silicone Valley-ish would be my go to footwear these days hot or cold days 😂
Hey Helen, great Vlog. It is so useful to analyze purchases and why some things just don't work. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, I find these vlogs so useful. 😘
Living in the mid west of the United States it is essential for me to have a variety of sweaters, coats and jackets because the temperature could range from 45 C to -10 C. I wish I could minimize my closet more but it just doesn't make sense.
10:59 those were my go to shoes in the late 90s. Great for dancing. I didn’t drive at the time, and thought they did just fine in public transportation
Longline and oversized are two mistakes I keep making. I am also a Soft Gamine and just look like I’m playing in my husband’s closet, and doesn’t feel natural to me.
I still buy stuff I shouldn't but I am getting better, no 'dry clean only' & if I hear myself saying 'it'll do in a pinch until I find what it is that I AM looking for, it stays at the store.
There are a few different styles available: with an exposed pockets but also hidden ones. Sometimes it’s difficult to see the difference until you enlarge the picture.
I avoid heavy shoes at all cost. It is harder to find stylish, good quality shoes that are also light. But it can be done. I had to try on more than 20 boots to find the one that meets all my criteria. But then I can wear it and enjoy it for years.
"Qui faisait des souliers, si jolis si légers, que nos vies semblaient un peu moins lourdes à porter". Jean-Jacques Goldman in "Il changeait la vie". "[A shoemaker] made shoes that were so pretty and so light that our lives seemed a little less heavy to bear". JJG in "He changed lives". I am always looking for such footwear.
Great tips, and thank you for the video! ❤Can you tell me what are those gorgeous burgundy lacquered flats with straps? Haven't found a reference in the video description...🤷♀️
You showed a pair of Bobbies boots, but I don't remember a description of the quality or comfort. Any thoughts on shopping this brand during the sale season?
I love bobbies! But I would say they heavily need to be broken in. I own some suede heels and it took me a while to break them in. Good quality otherwise, but because of that, I didn't find them that comfy in the beginning. Hope that helps x
When you show pictures, I don’t know they are the DON’T or DO. You should at least put some mark like red X for the DON’T, make it clear that you don’t recommend. if we are able to see they are the DONT then we don’t have to watch your video.
Meanwhile my favorite shoes are my chunky pink lace platform combat boots by Donald J Pliner. A little heavy, seemingly impractical for warmth being made of lace, but I love them to death!
Love the video, but, respectfully, I find your style word of "feminine" a little jarring, as most of the outfits shown were more on the gender neutral side. Modern and playful, absolutely, but I couldn't pinpoint one look that made me instantly think, that's so feminine, not in the colours, silhouettes, small details, and so on. You have amazing style and I appreciate your tips, so I hope this doesn't come off as offensive or judgmental
One type of item I’ve noticed ends up unworn is anything that requires complicated donning, so to speak: shoes with long laces that have to be tied just so around the ankle, Victorian style blouses with 50 teeny buttons, a dress where you need another person to zip you up or help you get out of it... I want the process of getting dressed to be smooth and casual, not a Broadway production requiring three backstage dressers.
I so agree with you. When I go shopping in person, the number one criteria is easy to put on and take off by myself! If I struggle in those, it is a NO no matter how pretty the item is. I love the look of those teeny buttons on delicate fabric , but I hate to work on them after multiple first-hand experience. I suspect the purpose of those buttons is to prevent unwanted sex. LOL!
And items that require different undergarments than your usual ones! If I have to muck around with a strapless bra, I'm simply not going to be in the mood 9 times out of 10!
Love your view about boring basics. So agree all basics are not equal! Have learned to hold out for the perfect item rather than purchase the "close" items. Hard lesson learned after multiple black pant and tshirt purchases! My perfect items are modern classic with a twist.
Brilliant episode! Such a fresh perspective, because I feel like so many of these videos can be redundant in the sense that they’re about not buying trendy pieces, someone else’s capsule wardrobe essentials, or the fantasy self. Most of these were so new to me!
I especially love the shoe tip about the sole coming over the upper, since I walk and talk transit every day. Although I do gravitate toward heritage styles like the blundstone and converse, I feel like it’s a treat each time I put them on.
Thanks Emily ❤! I often hear those too and while they’re SO valuable to know it can definitely get repetitive haha. The shoe tip is one I always stick by as sadly too many shoes don’t work out because the design wasn’t made for heavy walking. Thanks again for watching 🥰🥰
That's a really good point about matching fabric types with the style and the season in which you would wear it, you said it very well. Thanks for pointing it out.
I live in a place where the summer is very hot and winter very cold - there is no "in-between". I have a lot of fall-pieces like light sweaters and jackets, but with your video I realize I never wear them because we go from like 35 degrees to 5 in less than a month !
(Sorry for my english it is not my native language but I'm happy I understood almost all your video !)
This is one of the most useful fashion videos I've come across. All the points are so unique and I haven't heard any other videos touched upon before!
I agree!! I find that Helen always has such great insight with fashion, i always find myself using her tips and i feel like a much more mindful consumer now
I agree with all of these. I bought a medium bag (from Dooney and Burke) that I loved the look of, not realizing that it’s so very heavy, at least 5-6 lbs. empty. I rarely choose it, it just is too uncomfortable and the narrow strap cuts into my shoulder, even empty. That bag is the reason I rarely choose cross-bodies anymore, the straps are thin, so any weight at all is uncomfortable. It’s hard to find traditional shoulder bags with wider straps these days, brands love those “convertible” cross-body ones, but I don’t.
I m just the opposite, so I know what you mean. I know everyone thinks crossbody is lame, but I need them. I just cant take the chance of forgetting my bag, so I need it to hang off me. The only shoulder bags I can even consider are the Gucci Jackie bags because they are almost like a cross body in that you can do things with both hands while they stay on your shoulder.
I like this really well thought out analysis of what works for you vs not. I feel like I don’t have this deep of a grasp yet on this for my own wardrobe.
I agree with some of these but for the chunky knitwear and heavy jackets, I do need those lol. As a Canadian, winter goes on for half a year, so chunky knitwear is very fitting and cozy for homewear while heavy jackets are good for the cold and to block the wind.
The sole thing has been a life changer, great advice!! I also walk everywhere and noticed my flattered flats wore so quick.. and it was exactly the sole thing
Every single one of these was useful to me! As someone who’s been harped on about quality clothes since I was a kid, I found a lot of these new and gave me a lightbulb moment.
Completely agree, the type of fabric should match the season of the year. Making a top with wool doesn't make much sense. The funny thing is that some time ago, I was discussing this with someone else. Great content!
It's always a good day when you upload a new video! These are all some great points that deep down we know but often forget haha. Thank you, Helen!
Thank you Devina!! ❤
The way you said "This is the shoe for someone who never walks" -- managed to be non-judgemental and a slay. Love it.
I have a 100% cashmere coat that I thrifted and I LOVE how it’s so light yet keeps me very warm, and it drapes in a really nice way
Such a good video. So true about why statement pieces and basic pieces needing to be perfect. I personally love unlined wool coats because I like the relaxed flowy movement, but I think that's a pretty niche opinion.
I also like unlined wool coats as it is more flowy , also because I live in Houston where the winter is very mild. Unlined wool coat keeps me warm enough.
With one exception, I don’t buy or wear any synthetic materials, either in fabrics (even in blends) or in footwear. Synthetic fibers are just plastics made from petrochemicals. They don’t breathe at all, don’t look good and give me skin rashes. The only exception I wear is those pleated polyester skirts, they don’t seem to come in any other fabric and I love the look and feel of swishy pleated skirts when I walk. I have to wear a genuine silk petticoat under them, though, to prevent skin contact. There is no such thing as “high-quality” polyester, nylon or acrylic. The only reason brands use them is to cut their manufacturing costs and so push their profits to astronomical levels. The don’t add any benefit whatsoever, all that “tech fabric” language is just advertising nonsense. It’s not as cheap or easy to acquire an all-natural material wardrobe, but it’s the key to a quality look, long-lasting items and comfort. Synthetics are neither recyclable, nor biodegradeable, nor desired by secondhand buyers or even if given free or donated, they inevitably end up in our landfills and oceans. They have no intrinsic value or aesthetic benefit, they only will downgrade one’s appearance. If on a lower budget or just starting out in your wardrobe upgrade, I suggest checking out Quince for natural-fiber options. They make the best silk skirts of all, for example, at the incredibly low price of $60 US (I have no brand affiliations, just love this one and some others that use natural materials).
Pleats fall out of natural fabrics when washed! The “no iron” quality of polyester fabric means that your pleated skirt stays pleated. If not for polyester, pleats would only be a high fashion fabric since you’d need to re-pleat the skirt after every wear! Also nylon is superior for exercise clothing as it retains stretch and is rip resistant. I don’t want my sports bra made of natural fabrics because it won’t provide any support. Not all synthetic fabrics are evil, there’s lots of grey area to the discussion!
I feel the same way about the pleated skirts! Why always polyester? I’ve only ever found one silk pleated skirt ever in my search.
I did research that pleats are always in polyester as the fabric holds onto the shape (as mentioned above :) ) I guess the other exception is any outdoor wear eg for camping hiking exercise etc where they’re very important in moisture wicking. But other than these, I do esp love natural fibres ❤
Not all synthetic are bad tho... There is high technology fabric made by recycled polyester.
It's not true that natural fabrics won't hold pleats. To the contrary - there is an old process that will make fabrics like linen hold pleats as long as the fabric itself lasts - but I don't thinks it's commercially viable on mass production scale. I remember wondering at how sharp pleats were on an old linen/cotton skirt my mother had while ironing it. It was probably worn for 20 years by then.
If you are interested, I think there was a short demo of the process in "savoir faire dior spring summer 2011" video (edit: I double checked, the time stamp is 27:10, showscreating pleats in silk organza in a steam room) which I think is on UA-cam. I still own a few pleated non-polyesters, all pre-dating 2000s by a large margin. Soooo... thrifting for the rescue and good luck in your searches!
Totally on board with weight issue. I hate heavy bags shoes and coats with a passion!!!! As a retiree, my lifestyle is casual daily. Recently I took a month long trip that involved cross country drive, cruise, and city walking. I pretty much wore a pair of classic Teva sandals daily (except cruise dinners). I have these sandals for over 20 years but forgot about them until before the trip. I wore SmartWool socks with them and never got tired feet or in danger of falling. Weird how this style of sandals I thought too manly or Silicone Valley-ish would be my go to footwear these days hot or cold days 😂
Really good advice. I need to stop buying safe boring pieces and find pieces that have interest but are not statement.
If you lived where it snowed a lot, you would understand why heavier lug soles are what you want and need.
Bright whites are the opposite for me! I’ve gotten more compliments when I wear white!
Hey Helen, great Vlog. It is so useful to analyze purchases and why some things just don't work. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, I find these vlogs so useful. 😘
The variety of textures in the eastlisa pack is impressive. From smooth leather to textured suede, there's something for everyone.
Genius observation about the toe of the shoes! Thanks!
Totally agree with you on the weight of shoes and handbags ! I'm all for the small bags (though I'm 5ft7) and lightweight shoes 🙂
Can't wait for 100K Subscribers Helen🥺🥺💓💓 and your contents are just wonderful and I wish you have a best week ahead
Living in the mid west of the United States it is essential for me to have a variety of sweaters, coats and jackets because the temperature could range from 45 C to -10 C. I wish I could minimize my closet more but it just doesn't make sense.
10:59 those were my go to shoes in the late 90s. Great for dancing. I didn’t drive at the time, and thought they did just fine in public transportation
love the poulene bag.
Loved a double video this week, so exciting and wonderful tips!!!
Longline and oversized are two mistakes I keep making. I am also a Soft Gamine and just look like I’m playing in my husband’s closet, and doesn’t feel natural to me.
I still buy stuff I shouldn't but I am getting better, no 'dry clean only' & if I hear myself saying 'it'll do in a pinch until I find what it is that I AM looking for, it stays at the store.
For me, buying items that other deem perfect capsule wardrobe pieces. Other people look very stylish in a button down, I just feel like a dude 🤷🏻♀️
Wonderful thinking!! Good reminders… i get attracted to things that look cool but really aren’t my style. Walk away!!! 🎉😂
I really want the curated coat but I want different pockets.
There are a few different styles available: with an exposed pockets but also hidden ones. Sometimes it’s difficult to see the difference until you enlarge the picture.
this was so insightful! very clever!
I avoid heavy shoes at all cost. It is harder to find stylish, good quality shoes that are also light. But it can be done. I had to try on more than 20 boots to find the one that meets all my criteria. But then I can wear it and enjoy it for years.
"Qui faisait des souliers, si jolis si légers, que nos vies semblaient un peu moins lourdes à porter". Jean-Jacques Goldman in "Il changeait la vie". "[A shoemaker] made shoes that were so pretty and so light that our lives seemed a little less heavy to bear". JJG in "He changed lives". I am always looking for such footwear.
Love the navy ! Happy birthday !
This is very informative Helen☺
Great tips, and thank you for the video! ❤Can you tell me what are those gorgeous burgundy lacquered flats with straps? Haven't found a reference in the video description...🤷♀️
regarding color season, i thought you were more of a summer but just my thought
Helen, would it be possible to share the link for the brown belt (with the gold buckle)? It looks great on you!
Really helpful ideas
Can you please share a link for your straw bag?
Thank you for the video! Where are the brown shoes from ? I can’t seem to find it on your list
What are the heritage boots, please? I really like them
Very Informative! I like your black bag too. Is it the toy Loulou ?
Excellent style, thoughtful suggestions, and ideas for the petite frame. Thanks. One little suggestion: It might be time to change up your music.
I really enjoyed this video
You showed a pair of Bobbies boots, but I don't remember a description of the quality or comfort. Any thoughts on shopping this brand during the sale season?
I love bobbies! But I would say they heavily need to be broken in. I own some suede heels and it took me a while to break them in. Good quality otherwise, but because of that, I didn't find them that comfy in the beginning. Hope that helps x
Love the tips 💕👌
Tibi uses lot of synthetics. Do you make an exception?
Red crossbody
bag link please.
When you show pictures, I don’t know they are the DON’T or DO. You should at least put some mark like red X for the DON’T, make it clear that you don’t recommend. if we are able to see they are the DONT then we don’t have to watch your video.
What's your shoes for the summer? I find loafers and boots too much for summer.
I love your heart necklace :)
Where is the bag from 4:10 from?
Meanwhile my favorite shoes are my chunky pink lace platform combat boots by Donald J Pliner. A little heavy, seemingly impractical for warmth being made of lace, but I love them to death!
Cheap shoes never look good. They are my priority splurge.
Everyone else wants one to drown in mindless consumerism. But this one video stands out. Tnxxx.
Amei todas as bolsas lindas e de muito bom gosto.Parabens *yutulux* 😘😘😘
#lvguci Bolsa réplica 1:1 con imagen reflejada, resistente y resistente al desgaste. Me gusta mucho.
❤ for thé algorithme
Love the video, but, respectfully, I find your style word of "feminine" a little jarring, as most of the outfits shown were more on the gender neutral side. Modern and playful, absolutely, but I couldn't pinpoint one look that made me instantly think, that's so feminine, not in the colours, silhouettes, small details, and so on. You have amazing style and I appreciate your tips, so I hope this doesn't come off as offensive or judgmental
❤
Ur pants length chops up ur look, longer will make ur legs look longer. Why do u like ankle length??
A lots of bla bla bla
En el momento en que vi el bolso *yutulux*, supe que tenía que tenerlo
Thank you dear for taking us along. Can't wait what the @ *lvguci* queen picked up at Fendi
New friend here sending may full support. *yutulux*