How to Wear the Elevated Basics Style Trend for Fall 2023

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I’m 63 and I highly value quality, classic, refined and versatile style, too. It’s become hard to find top quality wardrobe pieces since the late 90s, so I’m really happy the pendulum is swinging back again.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Me, too, Kimberly. However I do think we’re all going to have to be willing to prioritize quality over quantity and pay more for it. Life has just gotten expensive and I think brands are really struggling to keep providing the quality we are use to at the prices we want to pay. Would you agree?

[@audreyhuggins8822]

I relate. Even when I am willing to spend on designer clothes or hundreds for a beautiful blouse, blazer, a dress....the quality mortifies me: polyester, nylon, other synthetics, I refuse. Often times, I find better qualify at my local Macy's!

[@wannabe41]

Yes. The quality that used to be available for a fair price is now so much more expensive, and the quality still doesn’t come close to what I used to be able to find 20 years ago. That’s why vintage shopping and thrift shopping has become more popular. I still have some quality pieces that I bought over 30 years ago; 100% lightweight wool blazers lined with silk, excellent construction and beautifully finished button holes, etc. I look at what’s on offer today for the prices they’re asking for it and I don’t know whether to laugh or cry.

[@audreyhuggins8822]

@@wannabe41 You nailed it. So true! What is up with synthetics with an asking price in the several hundreds or even thousands?

[@scotland99]

I agree! Yes!!

[@marieschmidt9416]

Yes, yes, yes! Classy yet unpretentious...never goes out of style.

[@letitiakingsley775]

I love elevated basics. I’m 76 and I find that they are the best style for me. You are right when you say you need good quality. That’s very important. Thank you for the interesting video.

[@Anna-zu8nf]

What a brilliant and informative video Kay! Over here in the UK, there is a big push NOT to keep buying "stuff", you don't need, only buy when it needs replacing! I have t-shirts that I only wear in summer/spring. You have just shown me that I can wear them all year round with just changing what I wear them with. Brilliant!

[@colsen4616]

After spending an afternoon with my closet, I have a pretty clear picture of what my style is and found I already have most of what I need to achieve this look. This video really spoke to me. The point you made about the fine line between elevated basics and boring was spot on. I definitely need to work on accessorizing to stay on the right side of the line!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Love that! Thanks so much for sharing. ❤️

[@Kathiebaxter]

Good luck with it all, Alex. So impressive what you’ve done, I’ll be tuned in!

[@sallybarkla4991]

I agree Kay. Putting effort in to looking effortless helps me feel quiet confidence during the day. I’m still learning and have made many purchasing errors. Thank you for your great research and information. The red blazer looks fabulous on you with the white T 😊

[@susanevanko3982]

Growing up, my family didn’t have a lot of money but my Dad was a businessman who always dressed well. His suits fit beautifully, his shirts were perfectly ironed and starched, shoes polished and he was well groomed. I take after him and have always loved getting ‘dressed up’ even if I am only leaving the house. This esthetic very much appeals to me and I appreciate your insight. Thanks, Kay!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Wonderful. Being well-groomed really does go a long ways!

[@EllenCulpepper]

This topic helped me the most of all the ones I've listened to in a while. It holds key insights that I needed your help to see, Kay. Thanks!

[@ConnieMW10]

I have been going to thrift stores lately and finding some great items to wear. Names like Chaps, Carole Little, Lucky Brand, Jay Crew, Michael Kors, Coach, Orvis, Lands End, etc. I even got a 100% silk blouse for $2.00. But I have also ordered quite a few items from Banana Republic Factory during their sales.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Sounds great! Thanks so much for sharing. ❤️

[@margaretchiodo-keller4495]

I love the elevated basics style, and I wear it every day. It always looks nice, feels comfortable, and is eternally classic.

[@debmurphy5300]

Since following your channel, I have discovered my style, casual classic. I will be culling my closet with that focus and your tips for fit and proportion. 😊

[@hjburns]

Kay, this is my favorite style too. I have followed you since 2020 and I can honestly say you have helped me achieve a wardrobe that hardly needs any additions. Thank you so much!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Wow, thank you! That is music to my ears...or eyes. Ha! Thanks so much for sharing. ❤️

[@PatriciaKaelin-x1p]

I like your point about the fine line between elevated and boring. Something to really keep in mind when putting together an outfit. Thank you.

[@marianne7122]

Wow. Excellent advice. You explained the challenges of wearing an "elevated basics" style really well and provided clear examples of how to address the challenges. It made such good sense to me.

[@darladellana4961]

I do like this style trend. Actually, it's how I've dressed for many decades. Glad to have a name for it.

[@llkoolbean4935]

Great points here. Fit, and quality is key.

[@pjacksreads536]

When I woke up this morning looking for news, this video showed up in my feed. I decided to listen since I was sure of what to wear today. I took your advice. The first person that saw me said “You’re looking nice today. I love your outfit” I let her know I got the idea of elevating my attire from you. I wear jeans to work on Fridays occasionally but never thought of what I wear with them. Thanks for the great advice. I feel great also.

[@melodygardner6169]

WOW GIRL!! This was probably one of your best videos!!! Great information!!!

[@phyllismenzi6473]

Thank you, for this very informative video. I appreciate the tips you give. I like the elevated basics style because it puts together well what I already own. It helps steer me to what I need to buy also. God bless your day!

[@12Gaile]

Finally a style trend I can embrace. 😊

[@sherrynorte9574]

Like this video on basic elevated style. I have always like quality over quantity. It's nice to see that they going back to quality looking clothes without real high prices. You can always tell the difference in quality.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

I agree that I prefer quality over quantity. However, I do think retailers and brands are really struggling to provide good quality clothes at prices customers will pay. I think we all have to adjust our expectations a little or we need to be prepared to pay a bit more. Prices are just open across the board - food, gas, life! So prices in clothing are going up, too.

[@kimberlyberlin4999]

I love this style trend!!!! Elevated basics and classics are my go to pieces. Less is more especially when your garments are well chosen, well fitted, and quality material and workmanship. Great video Kay and your hair is so cute shorter like this.

[@marciafirst2271]

I love your red blazer. It is such a bright, cheerful color. Thanks for the focus on elevated basics. As a person who retired about a year ago, I’ve wondered what to do with the lovely clothes from my teaching career. I have removed many of the fanciest clothes and only kept a few for special occasions. Now with this trend, I feel like I can wear some of the nicer clothes in my closet, and not part with them so quickly. Because I’m retired, I now get to attend conferences with my husband (who is still working) that I was never able to attend because of my career. This gives me occasions to dress up a little. Thanks for this great video.

[@LisaLisa-h8h]

Kay I love this style! Appreciate you mentioning using resale sites to look for quality pieces to add to our wardrobes. Keep up the great work.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you!

[@traciehanley8475]

Yes - Great subtle look - timeless! Love the Coco Chanelle Rule!

[@FrancesStrange]

Dear Kay, I had to drop you a line to say how much I enjoyed your demonstration of the Ziip Halo. I, too, look totally different without my makeup. Hoorah for making the best of ourselves - whatever our age. You are a fantastic example, thank you.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Oh thank you! I don't particularly like doing those kinds of videos with no makeup, but I don't mind keeping things real. ❤️

[@beverlyjdesigns1410]

Loved This! Thank you so much!❤❤❤

[@user-pi8li9to3i]

Thank you…elevated basics is always my favorite look.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

You are so welcome!

[@GabySchäfer-l3d]

Great video truly less is more! Love your red blazer! Beautiful color. It's really good counsel to remove one thing. Also for make up: Less can be more! True also texture can be the thing that makes the difference between boring and interesting

[@nancyfelkner9782]

This video content is amazing! As I watched it, I was able to "pull" from my wardrobe several outfits. Many of these pieces have remained dormant due to a lack of points to follow to bring them together!! Example - nothing in the outfit takes "center stage". That comment helped tremendously. Thank you so very much for this VERY informative video. Classic and sharp Yeah!

[@karenpawlowskileahy1895]

Thanks Kay, very well done video. Great info

[@TJNash-cr9ko]

I love this - the way I try to dress most days. Love the jewelry you wore with the red jacket. Sometimes I forget that less is more!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Me, too! But I'm getting better about it. Thanks for watching! ❤️

[@karenbianco1084]

I just subscribed. I enjoyed your video very much! I turned 67 November 2nd. Most people think that I'm in my 50s. I'm working on making new elevated outfits, adding to some great solid pieces I already have! Thank you for your good advice!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Wonderful! Thank you so much for subscribing. 🥰

[@janithmathews4195]

I like the elevated basics style. Thanks for reminding us.

[@karolallen5823]

I’m a “seasoned” gal (love that description), who really appreciates your tips in this video. One in particular resonated with me - adding texture to add interest and keep an outfit from being boring. Great advice as always. Thank you! ❤️

[@s.barlow7062]

My goodness! You have put so much effort into this presentation and it’s wonderful. Thank you for all of the additional resources to shop from or at least look for.

[@joanngood648]

Very good explanation and a great look! Thanks!

[@kayeratliff9799]

Thank you for this video. In retirement, elevated basics work for me. 😊

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Perfect. Thanks for watching today. 💕

[@letitiakingsley775]

Very interesting video. I am 76 and have been wearing basics for a long time. I buy more expensive tops and cardigans from a very good shop and they look better. I wear a lot of black on top but do wear colour in skirts and pants. Thank you for your lovely video.

[@cindyhalpern3187]

I have to wear colors! But what you did with the red blazer is just right! Black with red can also be pretty !

[@rhonaklipp]

Love it! I appreciate your tips. You stand out from the crowd of fashion vloggers. Yes I like this style trend a lot!!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

ahh, you're kind. Thanks so much! ❤️

[@tamarahogan3912]

I really loved this video. I also really liked to learn that you sew. I have sewn since 7th grade in 1978. Even made my wedding dress!! With this knowledge I can spot quality at all price points. Something expensive can be cheaply made and the opposite is true as well.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Absolutely. I spot it all the time. Thanks so much for sharing and for watching.

[@RitaVernoy]

Thank you for these tips!😊

[@singwithscottishgranny9565]

Thank you, AGAIN, kay!!! Another wonderful video with so many great ideas! Xx

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Lovely! I’m so very glad you enjoyed it. 🙌🏻

[@JoeThornton-i7z]

I love jackets and sweaters they give your outfit balance. I am glad to see that sloppy look is on the way out. I love well tailored clothes. They're easy to put together and look great. Donna from tx.

[@janefoley5184]

Thank you for this video. It's so nice to see you showing well tailored pieces rather the the "trendy" oversized blazers, pants and tops! Those oversized items are so unfaltering on mature ladies!

[@VickiPeterAchterstraat]

I love this style too Kay and thank you for your positive and helpful tips to achieve our best self it has really helped my wardrobe approach 😊

[@kschindle1]

I love the second hand store elevated clothes. I have a pair of pants wool small plaid herringbone black and white pants that I have had for 20 years.

[@celestekyle2179]

Great video! I admire quality in clothing when it is so hard to find these days.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

I agree. But I think most brands really do want to provide good quality, but they also want to retain their customer base. Most retailers know what their customers will and will not pay, and they have to stay within those parameters while also trying to continue to offer the same quality they've gotten use to. I believe we're all going to have to adjust a little because prices have gone up across the board - fuel, food, housing, etc. So we have to understand that quality clothing is going to cost more than before, too.

[@jillhesson362]

Happy you mentioned consignment. I purchase about half of what I wear from a lovely consignment store in Frisco, Texas. Retired now but have always shopped consignment!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Love that!

[@allsquaredup9717]

Finally I have a term for how I dress - Elevated Basics!

[@rebeccawoods4488]

I love this style, and I love how you explained it so clearly.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Great to hear. Thanks so much for letting me know. ❤️

[@debrakettler6077]

Love your videos! Took your advice and purchased two pair of Talbots jeans. Love them!!! I live in southern Florida now and I hate wearing jeans. But on Fridays we can be casual and I wanted a stylish Jean.These work perfectly. Sometimes it would be nice if you could gear towards hot weather fashion. Like I would die if I wore a suit jacket at work every day down here.

[@loriandrews6805]

Wonderful video! Love elevated basics and I hope you’ll continue to showcase some.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you! Will do!

[@lyndaevans1132]

I'm so glad to hear that I'm finally in style! This is the way I have always dressed--even as a teen. I would always rather have one really nice thing, than five very trendy things. I have some things that I've been wearing more than 10 years, like cashmere sweaters and wool slacks. Have I had to have the tailor do touch-ups occasionally, sure. Like my boiled wool navy blue blazer that I bought over 20 years ago! I had the lining replaced two years ago, and other than that it just occasionally goes to the cleaners. Here in Austin, a wool blazer is usually all you need on most winter days. (Last year, it was 82 degrees on Christmas Day!)

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

I love that you had the lining replaced. So smart. We all need to be so mindful.

[@sharronwolfe7711]

I love this look! It goes right along with the current “Old Money” esthetic. Really do appreciate these videos you’re doing lately! Keep ‘em coming! 😃

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Glad you like them!

[@sclose3418]

You look so great and especially in that beautiful red blazer!

[@pappyone6062]

Kay, this video advice is great, but you look just flawless and so lovely in those colors you’re wearing! That red is so good on you and that lip color! I love it! What is it? Thanks for taking the time to put this video together.

[@pamedinger7512]

Love this style and all your tips are so helpful! Thank you so much!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Glad you like them! Thanks for letting me know.

[@cathyduran7771]

Such a wonderful and encouraging message. Thank you!

[@cynthiatennant9896]

Excellent video!!! Thank you Kay ❤

[@staceykeeling5842]

So much goodness in this video, Kay. Thank you. :)

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Wonderful to hear. Thank you for watching. 😊

[@appalachianwanderseeker]

Elevated basics is a great trend! I just purchased a nice black blazer and a number of wool T-shirts. They should work in my wardrobe for years.

[@scotland99]

Wool t shirts? Ive never heard of that. Ty

[@reenbowbrite]

where did you find your blazer?

[@appalachianwanderseeker]

@@reenbowbrite Kohls

[@debbiestoufer-zy2sl]

Great video. I love the elevated basic style.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Glad you liked it! I love this style, too.

[@gettingitdone2025]

I was watching a tv show recently and one of the characters had on a soft beige cashmere sweater. It looked so elegant! I really like this style trend.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Striking, isn't it? Thanks for sharing.

[@rebeccaopgrand7279]

I love this information! So helpful and makes it workable for me! Thank you so much! ❤️😊

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Perfect. Thank you for letting me know. 🥰

[@debmurphy5300]

Hi From Canada, still enjoying your tips.

[@fionafrazer8820]

This style esthetic is actually what my style is! Like you - I've been doing this for years - and it's nice to know I don't have to add much to be current! One of the problems is that the quality of clothing, regardless of price paid or place purchased, has gone down so significantly in the last 5-10 years. I have been so disappointed so many times lately - the seam allowances are almost non-existent, so tailoring can be a problem. I doubt many of us can get a perfect fit from a store, and because tailoring itself has gone up so significantly (I recently took a pair of pants in to my local tailor to be hemmed - $40!!!), that can put getting the good fit out of our budget. Your camel short coat is wonderful - such a good look, and I would consider a red blazer a basic!

[@kerryparker8925]

I love this elevated basic look. Thank you for the great examples you’ve shown. I love your videos so much.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

You are so welcome! ❤️

[@marysheaffer8609]

I like this trend. It is how I try to dress now. Simple, casual, and comfortable!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Perfect. Thanks so much for sharing, Mary. 💕

[@margeling4718]

I am glad the elevated basics trend is here. This has been my style ever since I was young. I am going to be 77 in a month and still practice this way of dressing. I am keeping a good number of my blazers from my former work “uniform” because that third piece makes me feel complete. I buy many of my clothes from charity shops and know fabrics and good workmanship since I have been sewing since 7th grade. I don’t see now except hemming pants. I am going to be wearing three trends this fall: a tailored red corduroy blazer. Can’t wait until it gets cooler here in San Jose, CA. Great video, Kay!!!

[@diannhoward9903]

I really like this trend & have always gravitated towards it naturally. Thanks for the video!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you!

[@pattorelli3451]

Love the color of that red blazer!

[@elizabethpetrie2732]

I enjoyed today’s video (as always!). And in terms of the “something special” that sets a basic item apart, the first thing I noticed was the topstitching on the collar and lapels of your blazer. Very classy.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you!😊

[@carolreeves9976]

I didn’t even know there was a thing called elevated basics. So much wonderful information from you. Thank you.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Glad it was helpful! ❤️

[@jackiegenandt6661]

Great tips Kay!!! Thank you for helping me look great!!!!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Lovely! You’re so welcome. And thanks for watching. 🥰

[@itsnova1245]

I love the faith that you told us to shop at tablet. I enjoyed your video. Blazers are gonna be so big. This fall tablets do have a nice selection of blazers.❤❤❤❤

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I love the cool-toned brown and taupe skirt and sweater outfit. The cool-red blazer would suit my cool-toned coloring, too.❤

[@stephaniecollins612]

I love these ideas and I have a lot of things in my closet already that will work.

[@jhh051]

I love your classy style and classic wardrobe. I know good brands and have been finding great items at the thrift stores and eBay.

[@marinarehren7076]

Great presentation! Elevated basics suit my lifestyle (teaching online) and I prefer things not to be fussy. I love this style and I think it is what I have been trying to do. I also made the experience that it is important wearing the right length and taking a shirt or trousers to the tailor etc. With the help of your video I will try to rethink my outfits!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Awesome! Thank you! ❤️

[@bookworm1642]

Kay, I love your link. I have been a fan for several years. I have a suggestion for you. Have you ever considered leaving off your under eye liner? It would draw your eyes up. You are a beautiful woman and you always look great! Have a blessed day, Polly

[@joycekerensky6880]

I like this elevated basics look, but I do love patterns❤ Thanks

[@susanbatten6422]

Superb discussion about refinement, the old word for classics 😂

[@anneveno9266]

Thank you for the ideas and for including a long denim skirt as an elevated basic. I bought one over the summer and it was a nice alternative to a flowy skirt that is comfortable in hot and humid weather and durable for going about my day. I’m planning to wear it with tall boots and tights for fall.

[@nancyjong4437]

Kay, the black blazer mskes you look business snd formal. The red blazer compliments your warm, friendly, energetic personality.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

😊

[@monagould1829]

I love this style! It is my favorite. Getting ready to retire so this is my retirement wardrobe:)

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Perfect. It’s where I like to live, too. Thank you for watching and sharing. 🥰

[@DianaMartone]

I do like this style trend of elevated basics. I'm not very good at it yet. I would always prefer to have pieces that look timeless. I would never want someone to say "Oh, I remember when that was popular". Also, I live full-time in a motorhome with my husband as we travel the country. I really need to have a few pieces that could take me from a lunch with friends, a nice dinner or theater show, or if I need to go on a work trip. Because I work remote and we travel, most of my outfits consist of jeans, t-shirts (short or long sleeved), and a fleece. On the weekends we are usually hiking so it is a hiking skort or leggings and t-shirt with a fleece. I don't want to give up this wardrobe, but would like to not feel at a loss when we decide to do something a little nicer. Also, I am 51 years old, 5'2.5", and ~120 lbs.

[@juliemoore6957]

I've always done basics, and styled them up with accessories! It's kind of like a capsule wardrobe!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Yes!😊

[@norafairbanks5796]

Kay, look forward to your Wednesday show every week. Bought my first jean jacket, got my belt out too.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

That is awesome! Thanks so much for letting me know. Enjoy!

[@cynthiaapodaca2726]

I enjoy you so much! I’ve been following you since 2020 and this is my favorite video! This was an excellent video featuring tips to create an elevated modern classic look. Thank you for teaching the skills to wear the current fashion trends with confidence and style! ❤

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Oh thank you! So wonderful to hear!😊

[@sunflowerbrown5823]

I'm all about the basics! I buy brand new clothing pieces wherever I find my favorites and also buy preowned as you mentioned. Also, as a petite woman I can't emphasize enough how important it is to avail oneself of professional tailoring services such as hemming. It may seem costly but I guarantee that tailoring as needed will make you pull for that garment piece more often and feel more confident wearing it! I actually think elevated basics increases my self confidence. Feels more put together.

[@dianec8928]

I’ve been following you for awhile now…. Thanks for this video, it was 1 of your best! Very detailed & specific. I appreciate all the outfit ideas in the side photos. Will be trying some of these outfits during fall & winter this year. Thanks again for helping us look our best on the outside and inside as well.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you!😊

[@NancyThecheerfulheart]

I have a suggestion, if you could make the outfits larger in the picture that would be great. Maybe put yourself talking in a smaller window that would help. Sometimes it’s hard to see the details in the outfits you are presenting.

[@jodyjackson5475]

Agreed!

[@rachelkivarkis1801]

Thank you, Kay, for this Special session. Beautiful I learned, a new term, elevated basics, for this is the first time, I hear about it. God bless you, and you do look great in all the looks. Thanks again. 😘👍🙏🌟✨❤️🌻✝️💫🍁🧡🍂

[@PatriciaPatterson-u2f]

Good morning Kay, fantastic recommendations today, very helpful for me (72), with many classic pieces.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Lovely. Thanks so much for watching. 💙

[@victoriatorcolini4410]

Excellent tutorial! 🎉

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you! 😊

[@sarahlion9949]

Thank you for your information. I like it. ❤

[@suzyhall2608]

Great video! Thank you!! While I had no trouble buying the J. Crew cropped sweater using your link, I tried for well over an hour to get that Talbot’s blazer. Everything was going fine but a Place Order button never appeared. I withdrew it and started all over again - more than once - but same result. I called them. A man who barely spoke English made me spell everything. Huge problem with “Shetland”. But when I had to slowly spell “Blazer” ( with “Herringbone” on the horizon ), I told him to forget it! I’m sorry to say I bought it without your link. Same information went through immediately. But you were cheated if the pennies they would have paid you for my sale and I feel rotten about it. You are such a joy for me.

[@cynthiajohnston424]

I have called aTalbots store ( 30 mi. fr. where I live ) directly & they were very helpful ; if the item was not in their store , they directed me to their other stores who showed the item in stock . I direct called , spoke w/ nice sales people who then mailed the item to me that day . Good service !

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Hmm. That’s odd. Not a problem really. So don’t worry about me. But I don’t understand why that happened. It’s just a link to their website, so it all should work just the same.

[@edennis8578]

​​@@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms They were having a huge sale, too, and I think their website crashed. I had the same problem for exactly the same reason. I occurs to me that between the sale and women trying to access that item on the website, it just crashed the system. I was finally able to get the camel Shetland blazer, but I had to wait almost an hour for the ordering system to function normally.

[@suzyhall2608]

I know! Everything about the process was EXACTLY the same except never a way to place the order!!!!!

[@lynndupree1205]

Love this concept! I am finding a lot of classic basics in the stores this year - thank goodness! I'm SO TIRED of the ruffles and gigantic oversized trends. I also agree with you on hemming our blouses up to a flattering length. However, I find that Talbots crosses the line between classic and dowdy. Their stuff is cut too boxy for me and I truly hate all those ditzy little floral prints. I'm shopping the department stores this fall, as well as JCrew, Old Navy, and Banana Republic. I make a list of what I need before I shop, which keeps me on track!