When SSM Strikes!

[ 27 August 2008 ]

I have a confession to make. I have been struck by SSM. As a consequence of that, my style quotient has been pretty low recently. You may think, ‘Oh, sure, whatever’, but allow me to explain.

I have been sleeping in a black merino wool singlet, a pair of my father’s thermal long johns, & a pair of socks. This is not so bad — I mean, it’s not super-sexy, but hey — & I would leave it at that. ...Except for the fact that I have been throwing a hoodie over the top, & a long black skirt over the bottom, & figuring that this makes it an outfit!

No, Gala, no! This does not make it an outfit! Especially when you add black Ugg boots into the mix, which are what presently adorn my tootsies! (Don’t worry, I haven’t left the house in them. Yet!) It’s a terrible situation, really. I’m allowing myself some small amount of leeway because (as previously mentioned) I’m living out of one ill-packed suitcase. But I should definitely be making more of an effort.

Yes, SSM has definitely got me in its deathly, vice-like grip. So, what is SSM? It stands for Seasonal Sartorial Malaise, & it’s a hideous beast!

Initially I thought this was something that really only applied to getting dressed in winter. It’s so cold that at some point, all you really care about is staying warm, & damn the consequences! But it happens in summer, too. By the time I left New York at the end of July, all I wore was my black slip & a pair of boots, sometimes with a sequinned bikini top underneath for modesty’s sake, but most often not. (I was popular at my local pizza place, though.)

Sure, at the start of the season, we’re all excited. We finally have the chance to wear our new boots/swimsuit/coat/shorts, & by jingo, we do! But halfway through the season, the thrill seems to wear off somewhat. We fall into a kind of seasonal uniform, we stop making the effort & everything gets a bit dull. We begin to hanker for warm or cold weather, fantasise about a blanket of snow or a pristine tropical beach, & life starts to drag.

The good news is that you can easily break out of SSM — the first step is to admit that SSM has you in its sights!

Say it with me, now!

“Hi, my name’s _______, & I am drowning in a sea of SSM!”

Now, the solution. I prescribe as many of the following as you see fit — immediately, if not sooner!

Find a reason to get dressed up
If all you’re doing is going to work, then coming home & watching movies in front of the fire/air conditioner until you pass out, you don’t have a lot of encouragement to get sassy. Your life may not be one big carnival of thrills, & the only thing written in your calendar might be “buy cat food”, but it doesn’t have to be that way if you don’t want it to!

What kind of thing would make you want to dress up? A night at the opera? A first date? A dinner with a bunch of your favourite people? Once you’ve established what kind of thing would enthuse you enough to make the effort, get to work on making it happen! Contact your friends, organise a meal. Book tickets to the opera online & mark it down in your diary. Start talking to that cute person & ask them out on a date! (If there are no cute people to be had in your immediate vicinity, get on OkCupid! Stat!) Google for weird, free, fun or avant garde events in your city, & start going to them!

Fling the doors of your wardrobe right open. Crank up the music. Grab things, try them on, hop around on one foot, hold dresses up against yourself & devise an outfit, the likes of which have never been seen before! Experiment with your wardrobe. Have fun with it! Try things that you don’t think will work. See what happens!

There’s nothing better than a fabulous night (or day) out — with a fabulous outfit to match — to make you feel amazing again. It’s just that sometimes we get locked into our daily routine, & forget that really, we can do anything we please! Grab that fact & make it your own. Surprise & delight yourself!

Clean out your wardrobe
Okay, I know this is a daunting task for many of us. It gives us The Fear. How will we ever possibly manage to claw our way through years of bargain hunting, pants which are distinctly the wrong size & old bridesmaids dresses? The answer is simple: indulge in a little Wardrobe Taming. Beat that bad boy into submission!

No one can really put together a show-stopping outfit when the first thing they see when they look in their closet is a shrunken t-shirt with a stain on the front, a pair of ripped pyjama pants & a coat from 6 seasons ago. Do yourself a favour, & strip your wardrobe down to its bare bones! As scary a concept as it is, it’s true that you actually look better when you have fewer things to choose from — this is a lesson I learned when I was living in New York. Keep the good quality items which fit you, & get rid of the rest!

I did this when I went back to Melbourne a month ago. All my earthly belongings now fit into six suitcases! Yes, it’s slightly terrifying — but I have been left with only the things I really love. It all fits, it’s all in good condition & it all suits me. I’m delighted (& I can’t wait to receive it)!

Oh, you. What are you waiting for? Stop reading! Go & tackle that closet of doom!

Get some inspiration
It’s difficult to feel inspired to create a sartorial masterpiece when you have no visual fodder to spur you on. This is something I’ve been dealing with in Wellington — I have none of my usual pictures around to look at, which makes it hard for me. (Visual stimulus is very important for me!) The good news, though, is that there are about a billion different places you can find inspiration from. Flickr is one of my favourite resources, & if you’re looking for fashion-specific stimulation, the infamous Wardrobe Remix, started by Tricia Royal (who is now with daughter — congratulations, cutie!), is an invaluable place to get new ideas.

Big magazine shops are magnificent, too. Foreign fashion magazines, design bibles & Teen Vogue all have their own charm & are fantastic for sparking your synapses. Buy a huge stack, cringe as you hand over your credit card, then go home & tear them up to make an inspiration board. Get messy with glue, a pair of scissors & a big roll of tape! Then hang it near your closet & feel free to add & subtract from it as you see fit — let it evolve as your taste does!

Build on the latest looks
I am not a huge advocate of trend-following, as you probably know. As a general rule, I think it is boring & the domain of amateurs. But sometimes looking at the trends & latest styles can give you a fresh new vision, which is totally priceless. If the fashion magazines are predicting forest green, expand on it — mix it with safari gear & animal print & a bone through your nose. If they say purple is “it”, make your own version of Willy Wonka’s velvet suit, & carry a lollipop as an accessory. Don’t ever follow it to the letter — be creative, excitable, a bon vivant. Use their predictions as a jumping-off point for new, bold, fabulously weird things.

Go shopping
There is no better way to break the shackles of SSM than with an amazing new piece in your wardrobe! How can you possibly feel bored or stale when you have a pair of duck-egg blue cowboy boots, a houndstooth cape or an enormous powdered wig begging to be worn?

One thing I would suggest is that you shop in places off the beaten path. You might have your usual haunts, & that’s okay, but walking into a new store & trying on something completely radical can change your entire sartorial direction! The purchase of an amazing cranberry sweater from Yohji Yamamoto or a pair of incredible boots can give all your old items a whole new lease on life. You don’t have to spend a billion dollars — be discerning, get a few great pieces & watch as they shake up all your dressing conventions!

Hold a clothing swap
Invite your friends over & trade clothes! It doesn’t have to be just clothing, either — it’s great fun to swap jewellery, bags, belts & barely-worn footwear. You could even make invitations, if you wanted to get really into it. You should be sure to specify that only good quality clean clothing will be accepted to swap.

I have been to some clothing swaps which were a bunch of people who didn’t know one another, & honestly, it doesn’t bring out the best in people. They bring along stained sweaters because they know no one will know who brought it, & then expect to make off with a Chanel handbag. It’s not pretty. The good thing about inviting your friends over is that the pool is so small that there is no social loafing!

Play good music, open a bottle of champagne & have a dress-up party. Then go home with your new things & enjoy!

Has you succumbed to SSM before? What pulled you out of it, & brought you back to sartorial life? Share your tips & tricks!

Super-love & cupcakes,
Gala

Tags: aesthetic, how to, inspiration, life, productivity, question

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Comment

I’ve recently been cleaning out my closet since I’m moving into a tiny apartment, and realized that despite the fact my closet was full I barely wore any of what was in it. All three of my close good friends have gotten at least one shopping bag full of clothes from me, and I’ve noticed that I’m a lot happier with what’s left.

Also, the other thing I keep finding in my closet is clothes that would be perfect for one kind of craft project or another. A giant tshirt became a bag, others have been cut and sewn into dresses, hoodies, etc. Taking things I already own and making them something new is giving me new things to wear and doesn’t cost anything.
Lisa · Aug 27, 03:59 PM · #
ahaha, I lol’ed with that “f all you’re doing is going to work, then coming home & watching movies in front of the fire/air conditioner until you pass out,”.

I have mixed thoughts about SSM. The first one is “hell, sometimes is good to be relaxed, specially during winter…I rather look bad than have a cold”, but at the same time, you’re very right…I think winter is the perfect excuse for SSM, of course, but now that I think, is true that during the summer I use to wear the same dress over and over again!

Well, is winter here, but I’ve been more conscious than ever about what I wear! I think is because 1.my bf, 2. the fact that I have new and amazing friends in university, and I’m in a new career. Yeah, they’re only girlfriends, but…I dunno, I think I just want to express my individuality more than ever :) yay!
Well, you’re a big reason for my fashion change, so THAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANKS eternally! luv luv
fran · Aug 27, 04:04 PM · #
I always have one favourite outfit of the season that I seem to recycle every couple of days. My current seasonal obsession has been the headscarf tied like a headband – especially bright Japanese prints. I suspect I’ll continue this into summer. But I have been severely neglecting shoes, wearing 3 pairs over and over and over.

And ooh American Apparel has just opened here, I’m dying to nab some coloured basics…should add a lot more options to my wardrobe!
Jazial · Aug 27, 04:06 PM · #
Lisa — Ah, it’s stories like that that make me wish I could sew. I was the world’s biggest disaster when I took sewing classes at school, & it totally put me off for life!

fran — Winter is definitely a good excuse for lazing around & doing nothing, & of course it’s important to do that, but I think there comes a time when enough is enough & you need to pull yourself out of it! At least, I do ;D

Jazial — AA is totally the place for that. Yummy bright-coloured supplements! Delicious!
Gala · Aug 27, 04:09 PM · #
btw, thanks for the clothing swap idea!! I may do it with my new girlfriends…MMMMMhhhh, new clothing always makes me happy!
fran · Aug 27, 04:09 PM · #
!!!!!!!

Thank You Oh Dear Gala.

My fashion mojo is pretty much dead right now. I blame this partly on me usually being parked in front of the computer. I need to organize my clothes and start getting excited for school so I can start getting my FM back.

Thanks for the tips in the very relevant article.
Valentina · Aug 27, 04:12 PM · #
Sometimes I get into a terrible rut of wearing the same 3 outfits in endless rotation. I have to set myself a timeframe of, say two weeks, and make myself follow a new rule, eg, no wearing the same thing twice, or skirts/dresses only. That way I find some new fun, flattering combos.
Nadine · Aug 27, 04:15 PM · #
PS – then I take photos and post them to wardrobe remix!
Nadine · Aug 27, 04:17 PM · #
Yes I am going through SSM right now and I think it’s because like you said, I’m not getting out enough, so thanks for the ideas and I think I might try okcupid.

Everyone I know including me thinks my black uggs are hideous, but they are my SSM in the winter. For winter they are the warmest and comfiest, but if I’m going somewhere I usually wear them just for the commute.
Elizabeth · Aug 27, 04:28 PM · #
Oh, Gala, I am TOTALLY suffering from SSM at the moment! I just can’t help it – it’s so cold! During the day I’m not so bad (I usually try and get a little bit dressed up for work!), but the minute I get home? It’s all about the thermal singlet, topped off with not one, but TWO hoodies, a really, reeeally old pair of tracksuit pants (that definitely should have been thrown out a long time ago, but they’re just so warm!), nicely finished off with a giant fluffy white bathrobe and ugg boots. I know – stylish supreme, huh? Hehe – thanks for a lovely article :)
x Miss Corrine x · Aug 27, 04:31 PM · #
Funnily enough I was actually reading the wardrobe makeover articles just this morning while I was supposed to be working!! They are great articles Gala!!

I am planning to make over my wardrobe – I am starting to realise that all my key pieces are like four years old – And I was in high school then. I have changed a lot in style so wardrobe makeover is much needed!!

I allow myself at elast once a week to fall into the slump of dragging on my jeans and fave tee but the way I get myself out and motivate myself to dress up is simple:

Who knows which cute boy will look my way today and he will look right through me if I am not looking like my most fabulous self!!

Sx.
unzippedkitty · Aug 27, 04:44 PM · #
Or you can do the Mary and wear completely weather inappropriate clothes… today I wore a brown angora sweater dress and caramel leather boots… in the middle of summer.

To be fair, I was working at an air conditioned mall, but customers definitely stared at me as I ran laps and broken into a sweat in the fitting room in a desperate attempt to please young back to school shoppers.
Mary · Aug 27, 05:00 PM · #
I have been feeling like this at work all winter… i wear the same uniform of black pants and black sweater everyday, and the only variety is in the colour of shirt. Because its sooooooo cold and i just want to keep warm. Plus i don’t really care what people at work think.

Luckily im still feeling lively with my non-work dressing. Good tips in here though :)
candyapple · Aug 27, 05:03 PM · #
HAHAHA – You said ‘by jingos’!!! I haven’t even read the rest of the article yet, I just had to comment on that! You can’t get more Aussie than that, seriously. It reminds me of when I was little and all my elderly family members would say it all the time (I grew up in the bush), which got me saying it – now I get laughed at when I say it. I just love that you said it! And now I will actually read the rest of the article!
shells · Aug 27, 05:13 PM · #
Ahh, I used to be in a constnt state of SSM, but it all changed when I realised if I put in a little effort, I wouldn’t scare myself everytime I walked past a mirror!
Ivy · Aug 27, 05:14 PM · #
This makes me laugh so much! I have had a chronic case of SSM for a few weeks now and I wasn’t even aware of it until now. It’s so cold here in Melbourne. Bring on the sunshine which is a miracle ointment for SSM recovery because spring clothes are so much prettier and vibrant :)
Sarah Prout · Aug 27, 05:19 PM · #
Gala, this has come at the perfect time (as most of your articles seem to do!). I can not wait for the spring weather to hit – I’m so sick of being cold all the time! And you’ve given me the perfect project for the rest of the day – cleaning out my wardrobe…yikes! This going to require a fair bit of coffee and a plate of cuppy cakes….
Thank you dearest!!
shells · Aug 27, 05:21 PM · #
I have totally found myself the victim of the seasonal slump. I think part of it is moving from Florida to North Carolina – a state with a winter, which I never really had before. And while I like grey, I was wearing it all the time – shoedaydreams.blogspot.com/200…

A clothing swap can be a lot of fun. My office is almost all women and we had the best time changing items with everyone. Some made out better than others but we all went away with something “new” and a refreshed closet – shoedaydreams.blogspot.com/200…

Plus, we had cupcakes, so it was a great event. Although the guys all thought we were a bit weird! I think they were just jealous.

Luv
Poochie
Poochie · Aug 27, 05:23 PM · #
I just cleaned out my wardrobe and I got rid of all my “I’m hanging on to this for sentimental reasons” stuff – there were ripped skirts from 2001 that an old boyfriend liked ffs! Now my wardrobe is full of just maternity clothes or stuff that actually will fit for the next 4 months.
After I have the baby I am looking forward to mass shopping. I will be in Melbourne by the time I’ve recovered enough to shop and I am really looking forward to re-doing my wardrobe in the most beautiful city in Australia. In the meantime I’m working on a style book and a list of basic essentials… It’s a really long list for something meant to be basic.

PS: Wearing ugg boots to the chemist at 7am because your son is throwing up and you haven’t had a chance to shower yet, is ok isn’t it?? Or am I beyond help??
Song · Aug 27, 05:44 PM · #
When i get into a slump like this, i put on some great music, pull everything out of my closet and just play around, making up outfits and taking photos of the ones that work.

Sometimes, when you are dressing in really grungy stuff for the sake of warmth, it is cool to try to experiment with different ways of layering your warmer-weather clothing to get more mileage out of it. Try putting a tee under a dress, or long-sleeved tops under a cute singlet, or adding leggings or knee socks to skirts. another thing i love to do is cut up old stockings to make armbands, or cut the feet and the crotch out of laddered stockings to make a top that you can layer under dresses or tees. Or layering laddered stockings over one another for super warmth. the possibilities are endless!
nessbow · Aug 27, 05:58 PM · #
Song — Awww! I think that’s forgiveable… it’s an emergency! xxx
Gala · Aug 27, 05:59 PM · #
Oooh yeah, I am SO there on this one.

It comes from working in a dirty, freezing cold warehouse all winter. I’m layered up in woolly tights, old jeans, thick socks and workboots, scarf, multiple jumpers and woolly fingerless gloves pretty much everyday.

Can’t WAIT to get back into a tanktop this summer!
Kirsten · Aug 27, 06:06 PM · #
I admit I am completely drowning in SSM. especially since school has started and even though we have a fairly liberal dress code i am starting to relax back into my classic “school” outfits, which to me is a terrible nightmare.
I tend to liven up looks with crazy accessories or random vintage finds from etsy.

& for inspiration lookbook.nu is amazing! it’s updated all the time and you can separate the outfits by style.
rose · Aug 27, 06:41 PM · #
my issue is im in hsc SSM, which equates to i can only wear my falling apart paint splatered 501’s and a tank top cause i dont want anything else to get paint on it.
:(
can’t wait for next monday when its due in.
Katrina · Aug 27, 07:17 PM · #
Dang, as long as this problem didn’t have a name I could deny it was happening to me!

But I blame uni! Long hours of studying! It’s cold and I’m saving the environment by wearing layer upon layer of ugly clothing rather than turning on my air conditioning!

Summer can’t come soon enough.
Claire · Aug 27, 08:47 PM · #
I to am a perpertraitor of this crime, these days its all about the v-neck long sleve tops in greys, black and purple and black high waisted ,slightly flared jeans. In summer I can be just as bad though, I live in black cotton dresses.

I try to mix it up by adding a bright coat or scarf or shoes with it so I’m not so boring. This winter Ive invested in a bright yellow cheack trench, which is awesome because everytime I’m wearing my uniform and I put that over the top, it instantly makes everything better again. Bright trenches are definetly the way to go!
ruby · Aug 27, 09:11 PM · #
You are utterly fabulous…I’m leaving for college on Saturday and its sad because usually the first week I’m excited to get dressed up but after that it gets sloppier and sloppier…after reading this hopefully I’ll change my ways this year?? I think so!!!
Thanks Gala :)
Misha · Aug 27, 09:34 PM · #
Gala! I was thinking the same thing this morning. During winter I put no effort in my dress at all. When I go out for special occasions etc, yes I stand in front of the mirror and design an outfit, however when it comes to Uni and work I find I wear the same outfits. I try and mix things up but because of the cold mornings I wake up late and throw on whatever is on the floor and doesn’t smell! This article has given me ideas to break this pattern. I couldn’t help but laugh with your comment about coming home,watching movies and passing out! So true. I can’t wait for summer so I can wear my beloved black shorts again and continue to wear them throughout the summer…just like I have been doing with my winter clothes….blah hehe

xxoo
Kylie · Aug 27, 10:13 PM · #
Honestly, Gala, your ability to write posts relevant to my life is really quite astounding! For a number of reasons, not least the fact that our summer in the UK has yet again been a total washout, I’ve descended into wearing all shades of black. Yesterday, whilst at the shops, I decided my wardrobe needed a wake up call and what better way than some splashes of red. I bought a fabulous pair of red leather ankle boots, a red cinch belt and an outrageously scarlet lipstick. I can honestly say I feel better already, despite more rain being forecast for today!
I’m off to make my inspiration collage now…
amypalko · Aug 27, 10:55 PM · #
Every winter I look forward to summer and being able to wear dresses and skirts and sandals and other pretty floaty things. And every summer I look forward to being able to layer up the pretty scarves and jumpers and gloves. And I never do anything different. In summer I wear shorts and tshirts and in winter I wear jeans with tshirts. I seem to be in a permanent SSM....

I think I’m going to put a lot of the stuff that is holding me back (I’m looking at you, oversized black hoodie) on ebay and try to make some money to go and buy new clothes that inspire me :)

P.S. Amy Palko: where did you find red leather ankle boots?! Do want!!
Joanne · Aug 27, 10:58 PM · #
THANK YOU for writing this fabulous article.

I’m a long-time sufferer of SSM as well, partly due to me having crummy health spells. Some days I’m so sore and tired that all I can do is drag on my trackies and long-sleeved dress and slump in front of the TV.

It’s even gone as far as me choosing clothes for comfort rather than style (while all clothes should be reasonably comfy, I was taking it too far), though I think a pair of Peter Alexander PJs might set me right :)

The SSM tips look like a lot of fun, and I can’t wait to try them.

Love your work :)
Anatomie · Aug 27, 11:46 PM · #
Inspirational post as always, Gala. I have to ask, though – do you really think OKCupid’s a good place to meet interesting cuties? I’ve always found it a bit of a cesspool, but I’m willing to give it another go…
rachel · Aug 28, 12:14 AM · #
amypalko — Some red splashes sound like the perfect thing to get rid of the winter blues ;> Nice to see you commenting again, missed you! xx

Joanne — Selling your old stuff to make way for the new is a great idea! Clever you :D

rachel — I’ve met some cool people there! I think it’s worth giving a go, at least! Good luck :>
Gala · Aug 28, 12:53 AM · #
Gala! Definately on top form with this one – you seem to me so much sparklier when nattering on about fashion/personal style/wardrobe excavation! I love it.

You’re so right that one new, key item can completely send your whole warbrobe in a new direction and I think it’s important to really consider any new purchases long and hard for this very reason (especially students and those on measly incomes!)New items should be worthy of a place in your closet!

Adoration x

www.studentcharade.blogspot.co…
Megan · Aug 28, 01:24 AM · #
Thanks for the tips! It was just in time because I’ve been stuck in a style rut for ages! :)
camille · Aug 28, 01:54 AM · #
Really great post! I personally can’t wait for fall/winter weather (I want to wear my new boots & woolly tights), but I know eventually I’ll be missing the summer heat (and those summer dresses).

My cure for SSM is to find a way to wear my summer gear during winter. I tend to throw on the summer dresses, paired with cute boots, thick tights, and a warm cardigan. Then I can have fun in winter, minidresses and all! :-)

I’ll be sure to bookmark this post, though, for when the last leg of winter is kicking my sartorial ass.
Dollface · Aug 28, 02:00 AM · #
Well where I am it’s still summer and I am sooooo sick of having to wear short shorts and tank tops all the time. I’m definitely suffering from SSM, but there’s nothing much I can do about it. It doesn’t pay off to go and get new summer dresses or sandals cause I won’t be able to wear them in a month anymore. I’d rather get some new make-up, I found great red lip gloss and navy blue eyeshadow at Victoria’s Secret, and I think that’ll do for now. Still, this article has been an inspiration. Right now I am really going to work and coming back home just to sit in front of the TV or have a glass of wine with my roommate, so I’m really to lazy to dress up. Plus, I’ve had enough of my summer clothes already and can’t wait to wear a sweater!!!
Maria Lilian · Aug 28, 02:29 AM · #
I’ve been stuck in this oversized hoody / dress (wasn’t quite sure the look Bardot was going for, some sort of confusing hybrid that managed to work but only barely) ALLLLLLL MONTH. I’m ready to recover now.
dakota · Aug 28, 03:15 AM · #
I got out of my summer fashion slump by picking a different musician to be my inspiration each day. Patrick Wolf and Kate Bush were the best. But then I went to the beach and wore nothing but an bikini and a t-shirt all the time and now my SSM is back. Clearly it needs to be fall now so I can layer crazily – always a mood improver.
Becca · Aug 28, 04:32 AM · #
BTW Gala, the RSS feed from your site is not updating… the last 2 posts never appeared. I don´t know if it´s a problem with your host or MyYahoo, but I thought I´d tell you anyway.
eternalvoyageur · Aug 28, 05:33 AM · #
I am totally there- been wearing the same shorts and AA tees all summer long- don’t even want to think about wearing anything else.
It’s not just because it’s hot though- i think I am having a combo of SSM and “Wardrobe slump” I hate everything in my closet…but I am afraid if I give it all away and the slump straightens out that I’ll want it all back!!!
decisions, decisions!
joanna · Aug 28, 05:36 AM · #
Great post! I have been going through my closet of late, putting myself through clothes/shoes challenges, a la Sea of Shoes – it’s fantastic, to actually figure out why certain things are never worn (bad fit, impractical, etc) and why you avoid wearing others (afraid to trip – happily, I have now uncovered two pairs of high heels that feel and look fab – all from the recesses of my closet!). The best part? It’s made me a much more careful shopper :) For the time being, I am just shopping in my closet.
Ammu · Aug 28, 05:40 AM · #
BTW I love love love love LOVE your blog. I just discovered it yesterday and have been exploring it ever since. I’m at work now and it’s SO QUIET but thanks to you I actually don’t feel like I’m wasting time because I’m getting inspired, writing a lot of stuff down, and just thinking of things I want to do. Thank you so much!!!!!
Maria Lilian · Aug 28, 06:13 AM · #
Gala, it seems I succumb to this for a little bit each winter. I do not do well in the cold, although this is my favorite season fashion-wise! And I could dress better…

My tip is to to visualize all the wonderful things you want to do for that season, and how cute you could look doing it! And how many photoshoots you could have to show how cute you looked doing it!
jennifer · Aug 28, 06:15 AM · #
I’m not a fashionista by any stretch, but I do like to look some variation of “good.” I like simple clothes, and in summer, it seems like there’s a thousand different ways to mix and match that stuff. However, in winter, I find myself slumping into a sweater and jeans, sweater and jeans. Does anyone else do this? How can I make the “sweater and jeans” look more exciting?
zooey · Aug 28, 06:41 AM · #
Wow, you’d be an amazing support at some AA meeting or something.. they should pay you to write little encouraging lists! Like Notes From the Universe but for Alcoholics!

And ugg boots?! I’m shocked! I distinctly remembered you saying you would never wear them! Meh, people change eh? And with everything that’s been going on and all of the change I think it’s great your trying things. I too wear them…but just as slippers. ;)

P.s
Picnic up a tree = difficult but totally worth it! We went yesterday and it was great! There was a squirell watching us all like “What the hell do you two think your doing up there?!” Thanks!

Vixxie.
Vixxie · Aug 28, 07:31 AM · #
Keep Your coat from six years ago! Love this post, totally agree with cleaning the closet to jump start the imagination with the clothes You already have, but if Your perfectly good coat isn’t in style this year, buy another one, hold on to it, and wait a few years, it’s coming back!
Ino · Aug 28, 07:41 AM · #
Gala, how old are you? You look 18 but I doubt any 18-year olds would have all those tattoos… i was just looking at your pictures at flickr and I think you have the most perfect skin ever. HOw is that possible? Especially if you smoke? Well, anyways, you’re a beauty.
Maria Lilian · Aug 28, 08:29 AM · #
I’ve been going through the same thing, but it’s hard to do a large cull of my wardrobe because my mum is such a hoarder! I swear everything I pile up, ends up hidden away in some corner.
I think I may need to attempt this when back at university!

After reading Nubby’s and your opinion on having less clothes, but that are fabulous and get rid of the mediocre, I’ve noticed when shopping I’ll try everything on to make sure I love it. I now come back with items I really love and will definitely wear again instead of a few more items that just don’t cut it.

Both of you are fabulous! Thankyou!
Kimberley · Aug 28, 08:52 AM · #
This couldn’t have come at a better time!!
I’m starting Uni..and did a major closet clean-up.
What I was left was with PLENTY of party clothes, fine dresses, mohair scarves and the like…
but casual clothes? Well let’s just say I’ve recently taken to wearing a pair of old ratty jeans (kept for Gardening!!) and a few of my sweaters from my ‘fat-days’ (again kept for gardening)
HORROR!!
But your article has pumped me up..that now I,ve just come back from a faboo shopping trip from Toronto and gotten meself plenty of pieces to head myself into the right route of stylish inspiration!
Zainab · Aug 28, 09:40 AM · #
I was suffering from SSM up until about a few weeks ago… now that I’ve gone to school and the weather has been cooling down, I have been throwing together cute fall outfit after cute fall outfit, it seems. :P I’m on a roll!

When I feel schlumpy in the wintertime, I try and pull out some of my summer clothes and mix them with my winter staples.

For example, my fall-back is a huge, chunky Irish-knit sweater (not very flattering, but I pretend that I’m going for the garbage-bag look) and jeans with winter boots. So instead, I take the same chunky sweater and put it with my favorite black dress, then add pretty knee socks and springtime flats.

And on another note, I have the same bikini top as the girl in the photo on the right!
Lizzie · Aug 28, 09:48 AM · #
Oh hells yes. Earlier this year, toward the end of what felt like the Winter That Wouldn’t End, I totally ceased to try. When it’s 30 below for three weeks straight and you have to walk to class twice a day, you wear anything that can take a pair of long johns underneath.

But I’m surprised to find that I’m feeling the same way now, at summer’s end. And these are some fabulous tips for shaking off the seasonal slump!

I find that simply mixing up your accessories can be a cheap, easy way to force change and creativity. Scarves and big necklaces can transform your blah-lazy uniform into a whole new outfit.
Sal · Aug 28, 10:19 AM · #
Dollface — Yes, winter-ifying your summer gear is a great way to get past the seasonal doldrums! That’s what I’ve been doing here :>

joanna — If you only give away things that don’t fit, don’t suit you or are beyond reasonable condition, you won’t regret it for an instant!

Ammu — Impromptu clothing challenges are an awesome way to break the slump, too! Woo woo!

Maria Lilian — Aww! Thanks & I’m glad you’re enjoying iCiNG! Oh, & I am 24. 25 on the 13th of September!

Vixxie — They’re my father’s ugg boots :\ When I first got here I kept moaning about how cold I was, so he thrust them at me & said “WEAR THESE”. I wouldn’t, except I don’t have any good socks & I am in a state of perpetual freezy-foot!

Ino — Yup, keeping your old coats is always a good idea. I have about 15 for this very reason ;> They always come back in!

Sal — Amen! A good scarf worn loosely around your neck can be the focal point of your outfit, you could wear a burlap sack & no one would even notice! ;>
Gala · Aug 28, 10:38 AM · #
YOU. OWN. UGGS?

I am as shocked as the time my old housemate came home from work having bought some, and then I was HORRIFIED.

B: Li, I did something terrible today.
Me: What?
B: It’s really bad. You may want to sit down.
Me: Um, okay…
B: It was raining and my shoes got wet through and I bought…...fake Uggs
Me: NOOOOOOOOO!

She then proceeded to wear them in public on several occasions…it’s a slippery slope Gala, a slippery slope!

I am having SSM myself at the moment. I don’t have to go out hardly ever, which isn’t helping. I can come up with party outfits really well but everyday things to wear indoors? I wear my once-black jeans and one of the old tops I’d never wear out. I must get myself motivated to have style!
Lady Julianne le Fay · Aug 28, 10:43 AM · #
I can attest to how wonderful it feels to attack your wardrobe, give away the old, bring in the new. This past weekend, I took a special trip to some outlets a few hours from my home and I returned with multiple outfit possibilities and a brand new arsenal of makeup to boot.

It really gave me the incentive to clear my closet and dresser drawers because, within just a few hours, I had bagged clothing which I’ve had for more than four years just taking up space making my closet look like a disaster area.

Now that I have everything new ready to go at a moment’s notice, Its made me more cheerful and I am proud of myself for finishing such a dreaded and time consuming chore.
Krista · Aug 28, 10:49 AM · #
Hi Gala,

Quick question… is your ‘advertise’ section reasonably up to date?

Thanks Eva
Eva · Aug 28, 12:42 PM · #
Street fashion blogs are great too. They’re spontaneous, as opposed to fashion magazines.
Constance · Aug 28, 12:47 PM · #
Hello hello Gala!
Ohhh man I am totally suffering from SSM right now too!
Here in Vancouver, we’re in the awkward summer – fall transition! Just rain, rain and more rain!
But I just took your advice and did a wardrobe cleanout yesterday! It felt amazingly good and I found so much clothing I forgot I even had! Having “new” clothing feels great! :D
And btw, thought you might like this link: inspiredology.com/alfred
Alfred Hitchcock Photoshoot!? Beauty!
Alice · Aug 28, 01:17 PM · #
Gala! Please help, I’m in Saskatchewan and oh you can already tell winter is coming…I bought a beautiful houndstooth fall jacket but the problem is I finally succumbed to a trend that I have NEVER understood and often mocked- the 3/4 sleeve length jacket!!!! I’ve been making it work with long sleeved sweaters & what have you, and am eyeing up a pair of long gloves but some inspiration would be AMAZING if you are ever so inclined in the near future! xoxo
nikki · Aug 28, 01:23 PM · #
Hi, i just found out your site and i absolutely love it. Compliments! I had to add it to our links!
Fashion blah blah · Aug 28, 01:29 PM · #
Yeah, they do make good slippers really! I’m from rainy England and it’s always cold over here, ugg boots or nay!
Hope your tootsies stay toasty! ;)
Vixxie · Aug 28, 01:31 PM · #
I really agree with going to a store that you don’t frequent to. It’s a great way to discover a treasure!! I love doing that, and now I almost never go to the same store twice. Well, I do, but after the second time, I have this impulse that there is something better out there!
Jenny · Aug 28, 02:43 PM · #
I’m definately suffering from SSM right now! I’ve been wearing various pairs of jeans with my long black leather boots and a small selection of tops finished off with one of two coats. It’s starting to get embarrassing.

I’ve found that the most effective method to get me out of SSM is to buy some new clothes. That way I’m excited about wearing them and make the effort to change up my outfits. However I must admit that each Summer and Winter, I always end up in a state of SSM by the end.
desert_rose · Aug 28, 03:38 PM · #
I find that SSM conveniently strikes right around the time of the best sales – July and early January. Along with Wardrobe Taming, it should be good motivation to know that you can afford to stock up on things you realize are missing from your wardrobe as you’re cleaning defunct clothes and accessories out! That said, if you’re looking for a special treat, it forces you to be more discerning about your shopping because everything is the last of the old stock, and you’ve got to be even more creative to know what you want.
ansi · Aug 28, 07:59 PM · #
Gala Thank you for the welcome back, sweetie :-)
I’m easing myself back into online life through comments, working up to writing my first blog post since July. In no time at all I’ll be manically twittering again too!

Joanne re: the red ankle boots It was one of those meant-to-be shopping moments. There was one pair in New Look, they were the right size and they were reduced to £7. Can you believe £7 for leather boots!? I just about knocked over the sales assistant in my rush to get to the cash register!
amypalko · Aug 28, 11:08 PM · #
I’ve been having that feeling especially during the Winter months; I never knew it had a name, now I know it’s SSM! Sometimes you don’t even notice it and you find yourself wearing the same attire everyday with a jacket splashed on top. To rid this feeling, I usually do the first thing you suggested… “find a reason to dress up.” I’ve been going crazy over the past week, going out and dressing up every weekend for different occasions, such as semi-formal birthday parties, art exhibitions, picnics and recently and christmas in august themed cocktail party :)
Leanne · Aug 29, 08:30 PM · #
Late last year I emerged from a couple of years of SSM, which were preceded by half a decade of Tragic Goth Phase(*). Hahaha. I guess I had a sort of uber-SSM :-p

My cure was moving to a place that inspires me – I’m having more fun with clothing than ever :-D For a long time I I made myself forget about fashion because it seemed frivolous, but the question I never asked myself was: so what? Fashion is fun. Yay for fun things! I’ve actually come around to the idea that fashion is also one of the most fascinating forms of speech: a person who dresses in a deliberate way (as opposed to just throwing on whatever – not that there’s anything wrong with that!) is making a statement about themselves and the world around them and I love that :-D

* This from a girl who is right-this-minute wearing a recently-acquired pair of black leather coffin-buckled winklepickers. Heh! They pass because they’ve got class ;-p
Lissa · Aug 30, 12:50 AM · #
LOL! Sometimes I get dressed up to stay inside and feel silly dancing around by myself in my apartment.

I love being home and sloppy chic, but even when no one else is watching, I still know I look awful… and it bugs me.
Karen · Sep 4, 03:34 AM · #

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When SSM Strikes!

[ 27 August 2008 ]

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