Stepping Outside My Fashion Comfort Zone
I made my children promise that they wouldn’t let me turn into a little old lady who was stuck in her ways. One that refused to try new things and would say, “I’ve done it like this for years,” or, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” So, stepping outside my fashion comfort zone is a goal for me this year. I’m not stopping with fashion; I intend to try new supplements, makeup, skincare, etc.
If you are a parent or grandparent, then you are familiar with a child who will only eat certain foods and refuses even to try a small taste of something new. They don’t like the “look” of the food, as if that had something to do with how it tastes. Lol! While we will coax, bribe, or threaten them to get them to try new things, how open are we? I won’t have you wearing something that makes you feel uncomfortable; feeling confident in your appearance is always the goal. But I want you to be at least open to trying a new style, print, or color palette that you thought you couldn’t wear.
Trying a new brand
Today, I’m trying a couple of new brands. The point isn’t that I have to love the look; it is that I am willing to “try” them. In this case, I was curious about these brands because they are pretty dang expensive. What makes an item worth paying such a large amount?
Before I give you my review, I want you to realize that everyone has a different price point they are willing to spend on clothing. I try to style clothing from all different price points to give everyone a chance to look and feel fabulous. This outfit is expensive, so I’ll also give a similar option at a much better price.
Pros of the Relaxed Terry Button-Up Shirt
I have some pros and cons for each item. Let’s start off with the pros of the Frank & Eileen Relaxed Terry Button-Up Shirt. I was so excited to try this shirt once it arrived. The fabric is very thick and heavy (think a button-up sweatshirt) and comfortable. I think it will only get softer with washing, and I could see wearing this on repeat with leggings, jeans, etc.
Cons of the Relaxed Terry Button-Up Shirt
Now, for the cons. Obviously, the price is a little much to pay for a shirt or a sweatshirt. Even though the fabric is of great quality, and I love the distressed style, I’m not sure if I would get enough wear to justify the price. Also, I need to send the one I’m wearing back because it swallows me whole. I have it pinned in the back to take the photos, but I need a small one, and that will probably still be oversized.
Similar Styles
Good American isn’t a new brand to me, but it is one that I’ve only styled once or twice. I ordered the Always Fits Good Distressed Flare Jeans because I wanted to try this style. It is supposed to have enough stretch to them to fit several different size ranges. I’m wearing a 6-12, and my usual size in jeans is an 8.
Pros of the Always Fits Good Distressed Flare Jeans
The fit is AMAZING! I love the amount of stretch associated with these jeans, but I worried they might expand as the day went on since they covered so many different sizes. So, I wore them for two days in a row, and they still fit like a dream. The color is the perfect shade and can be dressed up or down.
Cons of the Always Fits Good Distressed Flare Jeans
The cons are harder to come by. Price is an obvious issue, and the inseam will be an issue for many of you, especially my petite readers. The inseam on these jeans is 33 1/2″, but I like that length since it works well with heels. They do carry a lot of ankle jeans, which would probably be full-length for petites.
Similar Styles
The brand I’m highlighting is one I show and style all the time. This isn’t for me to get out of my fashion comfort zone; it is for YOU. The brand is Amazon, and even though you might get packages from them all week long, some are still skeptical about the quality.
Pros of the Cardigan Knit Button Jacket
So, let’s talk about this khaki Cardigan Knit Button Jacket I’m wearing. Since the price of the other items has been an issue, let’s start with that. The price of this knit jacket is very reasonable, especially for the quality. This jacket is about the same thickness and weight as the button-up shirt, and the quality is fabulous. I’m wearing a medium, and I was able to layer it over the oversized shirt since it has plenty of stretch to it. It is available in many colors, and I’m also going to order the navy since it is a great neutral. This is also versatile since you can wear it as a thick button-up shirt, and the price is under $30!
Cons of the Cardigan Knit Button Jacket
Ummm, 🤷♀️ I can’t think of one. I’ve styled other items by this brand (Grace Karin), and the only thing I can think of is that some of the tops ran small. This jacket, however, fits true to size, so I guess that’s not really a con.
Here is a photo that shows the length of the knit jacket and the flare of the jeans. You can’t see the shoes very well; they are by Sam Edelman, a brand I’ve styled a lot over the years. The pointy-toe Leopard Print Flats are on trend and look gorgeous with almost anything. (Remember that leopard print is considered a neutral) However, the sizing is off for me; I ordered an 8 1/2 and a 9, but both are off just a little. The 8 1/2 rubs the back of my heel, and I walk out of the 9. I’m really bummed because these are so cute and would work great this spring.
Finally, I always accessorize my outfits when I leave the house. I rarely sit around with all my jewelry on, but I try not to leave the house without it. Kendra Scott is my go-to for jewelry, and I love the style and quality of the brand. I’m going to try other jewelry brands this year, but the jewelry I have on today is Kendra Scott. I’m wearing the Large Hoop Earrings, Lex Chain Necklace, and Lex Chain Bracelet, my usual everyday items.
The Buckle Strap Suede & Leather Shoulder Bag is a new purchase, and I like it. It is a medium size and can be worn as a crossbody for hands-free shopping. The quality is nice, with a suede body and leather trim. It is also available in black, but I love this brown color.
Similar Styles
Stepping Outside My Fashion Comfort Zone
I enjoyed stepping outside my fashion comfort zone, and I intend to do it more often. Don’t worry; I’m not abandoning my favorite brands; I’m just looking for more brands to become a favorite. Soooo, the big question is, are YOU willing to step outside your comfort zone and try new items?
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Verse Of The Day
1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)
58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Charity Navigator is posting a list of the best organizations to donate to help the fire victims, pets, firefighters etc.
hopefully everyone will pull together to help those in great need! Much peace!
Linda
Absolutely LOVE the Relaxed Terry Button up shirt, but unfortunately, this retired Art teacher can’t afford it. Thank you for the other options. I was going to order the Grace Karin Jardigan but the Royal blue is out of stock, so maybe the navy will work. I like trying new things, even if sometimes my daughter rolls her eyes! 😂
Yes,, I agree with you,Tania. Let’s try new things. If you don’t try it, you might miss your new favorite.
Prayers for all those affected by those horrible fires in California. Samaritan’s purse is often on the ground before FEMA ever gets there. A great organization. Thanks for the less expensive options in today’s post. So thankful you do all price points. Some blogs I have stopped reading because the prices are just unreasonably high for the difference in quality these days. Going to order that sweater/jacket from Amazon. Will be good for a southern trip I’ll be gong on mid March.
Though expensive the white shirt looks awesome on you! I love the Amazon sweater jacket and will definitely be looking twice. Understand about stepping out of your comfort zone. I’m 72 and am very cognizant of what I wear, not wanting the old, frumpy look but at the same time don’t want to “look like I’ve aged out” of an outfit! 🤣🤣🤣 I’m prone to stay with classics, especially pearls and animal print (shoes particularly). Loved this post.
Love the pros and cons! I love the leopard print shoes, hate when that happens with sizing. Do better manufacturers!!
I love your thoughts on stepping out of our comfort zone. I have started ordering more clothes on Amazon and am finding brands that I like. If I don’t spend too much, I’m more willing to try something out of my “comfort zone”.
There are many organizations that you can donate to. Red Cross, Salvation Army, Bstrong, to name just a few. I have relatives affected by these fires and it really is horrific. Sending lots of prayers to all affected.
Fashion ruts are no fun! Love the fresh ideas!
I like the white shirt.