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Tina Boetto's avatar

I saw Indyx and I came running. I love being able to catalog my wardrobe and what I wear so much - it's the most genius app. I feel the same way about taking my own photos - I'd rather spend 30 minutes searching for a flat lay online or than have my poor photography/lighting skills sully my otherwise pristine digital closet :)

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Traci Landy's avatar

YAY! I’m definitely a newbie and was almost a quitter... but I stuck with it and totally see the insane value of using this as a wardrobe and styling tool.

I go down ridiculous rabbit holes trying to find the stock photo—I feel you. I’m working on being more “flexible” in this life 😂

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Angela Jones's avatar

I got a tip for you (but why does that sound like a threat? 😂). If you can get a screenshot of the item on a mannequin, I’ll use the Markup tool on iOS (shoot, did you say you use a Samsung…?); I’ll add a shape, like a circle or a rounded rectangle, to crop out as much of the mannequin as possible; change the color of the shape to match the background. This gives me very clean product shots. I realize this probably sounds insane and I should just use photoshop or something—I’m just lazy and cheap 🙋‍♀️😂

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Traci Landy's avatar

I do not use a Samsung! Super helpful. Going to play around with it a bit! Thank you so much!!

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Tina Boetto's avatar

Haha Angela, I love this because same! If I can't find a flat lay, I'll use my phone to crop out the hanger and mannequin as best I can. My avoidance of taking unattractive photos runs deep.

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Traci Landy's avatar

Same. I clearly have work to do! Gotta experiment.

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Angela Jones's avatar

Listen, is it efficient? Hell no 😂 But is it effective? Bet!

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Tina Boetto's avatar

Haha, same - the few photographs that I took are...not aesthetically pleasing. I'm trying to live with them, but always keeping an eye out for a flat lay just in case :)

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Rachel's avatar

Maybe you’re already doing this but after I do my best attempt at a flat lay, I will pop that image in google image search to see if it will show me a professional flat lay. I’ve had good success with that.

The other more blasphemous tip is that I pop a mannequin or model image of the item into Stylebook (I purchased it for $5 long ago) and use their editing tool to remove the model. And then export that edited image into Indyx.

And then the third tip I have read about is people popping a model/mannequin shot into chat gpt and asking it to create a flat lay or an invisible mannequin image. Depending on your views of using AI, you may try that.

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Angela Jones's avatar

Oh, I may have Stylebook… I’ll have to try that out! Listen, if anyone’s got tips for jewelry, I’m all ears—that’s one thing I haven’t had good luck with, because vintage and secondhand jewelry is hard to find pics of online, and my own pictures never seem to turn out great.

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Rachel's avatar

For jewelry, I have found that starting with a darker or a lighter background to photograph on makes a difference in my uploaded image.

A lighter background tends to make the piece appear darker, and a darker background makes the piece appear lighter. So depending on how light or dark my piece of jewelry is, I prefer one kind of background to another. I also often will adjust the contrast/exposure, etc in my photos before uploading it.

For necklaces, I like to shoot it from above with the top of the necklace chain rounded, as it would be around my neck. It helps with the proportion in my flat lays.

For earrings, I’ve often found it better to photograph those vertically, when they are attached to an earring holder.

Bracelets I mainly try to shoot from a mostly front/slightly elevated angle.

I don’t upload rings, but would probably shoot them similar to bracelets.

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Tina Boetto's avatar

Thank you Rachel (again)! I have a lot of jewelry that I haven't added to Indyx because of the photography. This is super helpful.

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Angela Jones's avatar

Thanks for the tips! I’m going to give them a try, I’ve got a few jewelry pieces on my Indyx that are really letting the side down

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Tina Boetto's avatar

I do all three, but thank you these are still great tips :) I’ve been a die hard google reverse image searcher for years since I shop mostly secondhand and it’s been amazing for finding flat lays. I’ll occasionally edit out hangers and mannequins if a brand shot isn’t available, but it never looks as nice as a true flat lay. I use AI as a last resort since the images it generates tend to look like paper doll clothing cutouts, curious if you get the same effect?

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Rachel's avatar

Sorry I don’t have more helpful tips for you!

I have more success with AI images when the piece I’m uploading has very little texture. I’ve seen that the more textured the piece, the more fake the image that I get back looks.

These are my diy flat lay tips and tricks (that you’re probably also already doing haha).

My diy flat lays have gotten better when I mold the piece to look more like it would on my body by tucking, folding or scrunching more than I would initially think. I end up with wrinkles instead of smooth fabric, but the shape is more realistic when I’m creating outfits with it. I also heavily edit the exposure/ contrast/ etc before uploading because I find the process of uploading generally makes my image look darker.

It’s certainly not professional, but it’s a lot better than where I initially started.

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Tina Boetto's avatar

That's so interesting about the texture, thank you so much for this intel Rachel! I'm not doing that for photos and the next time I take my own I will definitely try this :) I'm glad we're on the same page for creating flat lays, if I stumble across anything groundbreaking in the next few months I'll be back to share.

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Robin's avatar

Here’s a photography tip: Take the item off the hanger and lay it on the floor, then use the Indyx photo tool to take a pic shooting down from about head height or a bit higher. The camera has a nice wide angle so you don’t have to hold it too far from the item. You will almost certainly get your feet in the photo but they will be removed along with the background! I have had very good luck with this strategy, even if it isn’t as clean as a stock photo

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Traci Landy's avatar

ROBIN. You are our Undisputed Indyx MVP!!! Thank you for this!!!

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Robin's avatar

Hardly— I can’t take an outfit selfie to save my life! But I’m glad if this helps!

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Usha's avatar

Lol Tina I did the same! So many great tips here in the comments. Here to say the data and selfies make the paid version a massive winner. I feel so much calmer getting dressed everyday

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Traci Landy's avatar

I upgraded 🤣🤣 I couldn’t wait a moment longer lol!! Agree, so much less stress!

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Usha's avatar

Tell me you're a data nerd like me??? I'm obsessed

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Traci Landy's avatar

Proud Data Nerd 🤓

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Tina Boetto's avatar

Usha, I love that we have the same thought process of stubbornly looking for links. Agree that the paid version is a great upgrade - you learn so much!

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Jess P's avatar

Obsessed with Indyx and loved everything about this post. For days I don't get ready (or it's strictly dog walking / sofa attire), I log my fave robe and a selfie I use on repeat or I'll just log the individual items rather than make an outfit: handbag for TJ's run, fave hoodie, etc. There's something so satisfying about a full month of data!

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Traci Landy's avatar

OMG, I LOVE THAT! Logging a standard robe and selfie for DNGD is genius. Not gonna lie, the gaps in my week for DNGD days hurt my soul.

Thank you SOOO much for sharing!!

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Caitlin Brady's avatar

Great deep dive! So I just started using Indyx a couple weeks ago and have almost digitized everything I own. What an eye opener! Because I decided to document every single piece of clothing in my possesion(minus my underwear)I am truly facing all the stuff I’ve and accumulated over the years. I think it’s helping me get clear about what’s still working and what isn’t. Im also enjoying the separate wishlist “collections” feature. It’s fun to dream and play with things I could never afford. One question tho…when you click that little bell to track items from other ppls closets where do those items end up saved? I can’t find the page for them…

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Traci Landy's avatar

I love that for you! I started documenting everything too, including accessories like jewelry, etc., so it looks like I have way more than I actually own—at least it feels that way! Now I’m thinking about things I have in storage and wondering... do I really need that?

I haven’t ventured into the wishlist feature yet, but I’m going to play around with it today.

As for the little bell, I’m not quite sure. I am definitely rookie status. This feels like a case for the FBI... or Indyx, please help us out!

THANK YOU for taking the time to read my work, I appreciate you!

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Elin Strong's avatar

This made me lol and also want to grab coffee with you: “I’m your mom friend who’s always late, doesn’t know what time the event starts, and forgot to put crazy socks on her kid for ‘Crazy Sock Day.’” And thank youuuuu for this deep dive on Indyx — I’ve been so curious about it but intimidated!!! Not feeling the latter so much anymore. 🫶🏼

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Traci Landy's avatar

LOL. It’s a title that used to make me cringe (oblivious/aloof mom in the group) but now I just own it.

I’m so happy it helped!! If I can do it anyone can! 🤣

Appreciate your support, Elin! You know I’m a big fan of your work.

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Kelly Williams's avatar

Cracking up at the white socks on Crazy Sock Day! Even though I keep my notifications at 0, I still cannot keep up with spirit days for 3 kids. How do we end the madness?!

Anyways, your posts always put a big smile on my face because you really feel like hearing from a friend and your outfits are both real and real stylish. I am on the Indyx bandwagon too!! Being very type A, meant that because I couldn’t find a stock image for all of my pieces and I needed them to look the same, I took a picture of every single thing. I do think stock images look the best though 😭

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Traci Landy's avatar

I feel like we’ve all been there. When the school does it two weeks before Christmas, it literally pierces my soul. I am clearly the Scrooge. I aspire to be a "0 notifications" gal. Someday. Big dreams.

Thank you for the kind words, I appreciate your support so much!!

I’m dying over the images. Believe it or not, I’m this weird Type B with quirky Type A tendencies. That is exactly something I would do. Indyx, are you reading this? HELP US.

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Kelly Williams's avatar

HELP US INDEED!

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Ariane's avatar

I’ve been using Indyx over a year now and I still get SO excited when someone new joins. It’s helped me so much with my wardrobe and personal style. Here’s a little tip for items you can’t find online : ask ChatGPT to create a flatlay for you. Game changer. Also, I laughed out loud seeing at the crazy sock day photo - so relatable!

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Traci Landy's avatar

I love that!! Such fantastic advice!!! Thank you, Ariane! In crazy sock day solidarity! 🤣

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Indyx's avatar

Wow, you summed up the immediate value of Indyx so well!! I always feel a little unhinged trying to explain it...like, “No, but seriously, just seeing your closet in a damn app will teach you so much!!!” But it’s true. Thanks for sharing your experience (and reminding everyone that the process doesn’t have to be so intimidating).

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Traci Landy's avatar

Ummmmm… HI! (Total fan-girl moment.)

My pleasure! I’m so grateful for the many writers on this platform who truly led me here, and dare I say, influenced me to take the dive.

“Teach you so much” is a total understatement. This app is an absolute GEM, and I’m so excited to learn, grow, and just have some fun with it.

I was scared at first, quit right away, and then reminded myself of Glennon Doyle’s words: “I can do hard things.” And honestly? Uploading my wardrobe (yes, it took time) really wasn’t that hard.

I’d rather be scrolling my own closet than falling into an endless hole of online shopping. I mean, there’s room for both, but balance is so much better than the extreme.

Keep shining!! XO!!

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Anna Taylor's avatar

As a fellow late adopter, it’s important to note I had downloaded Indyx and was uploading items before I had even finished reading this post. Thanks for the nudge I was wanting!

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Traci Landy's avatar

Yay!! We got this lol. It was a labor of love. I’m glad I got back into it!! You are so welcome. Xo

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Indyx's avatar

I truly assure you: neither you OR Traci are "late adopters"!! Super glad you're here :)

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Midwest Musings's avatar

Big Indyx fan here! It has helped me shop less and improved my personal style 😊

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Traci Landy's avatar

I love that, Jill!!! I’m excited. I’m always feeling the same: less shopping and more creativity!! Let’s connect on Indyx!! Xo

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Evonne Sturm's avatar

Always wanted to try INDYX — the idea of digitizing my closet and treating it like a merchandiser’s dream board? Say less. And yes to the pup pool party. Your German Shepherds are elite.

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Traci Landy's avatar

As is your furry angel!! I tried it (Indyx) a few months ago and quit… but then I decided to get serious about it while I’m off for the summer. Honestly, no regrets!

I also love looking (okay, creeping) at other people’s 'closets' and seeing how they style things!

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Evonne Sturm's avatar

You’re really giving great reasons to download. Will report back 🫡

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Tina Boetto's avatar

Evonne - you would love it! You have to join Indyx :)

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Evonne Sturm's avatar

Alright, alright, ladies. Making a strong case for this as my weekend activity.

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Traci Landy's avatar

Official Petition to get Evonne on Indyx. Please sign below. 😂

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Indyx's avatar

I dare you

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Traci Landy's avatar

Don’t threaten me w a good time.

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Evonne Sturm's avatar

Also thanks for the stripe love again. Love how you incorporate your variety of stripes into your daily fits.

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Traci Landy's avatar

Of course! I go back to that post quite often as a reference, lol!

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Katelyn Cnossen's avatar

Okay I’m so excited you’re on Indyx! Once I get home I’m going to get on it.

Let’s style each other!?

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Traci Landy's avatar

OMG YES. I want YOU to style ME. I don't know that I can add more to your already fun and exciting style!!!!

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Katelyn Cnossen's avatar

Oh yaya this will be fun! I need some fresh perspective and help.

Also I have been listening to the new Justin album too and am obsessed with Daisies, Yukon, and Go Baby

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Traci Landy's avatar

MY THREE FAVORITES!

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Danielle's avatar

Ahhh! Another post by you that I just love bc it’s fun and funny and informative. I feel like you might be the one to finally influence me to get sporty Adidas shorts which is funny bc I am so not sporty. Btw solidarity sister with the obliviousness. I showed up to two appointments at the wrong time last month and I am a late adopter to everything. Also barely keeping head above water at all times. And lol at your daughter’s white socks. I’m glad you laugh it off rather than indulging in mom guilt. There are too many events at all times.

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Traci Landy's avatar

I told my husband I’m basically the weird, quirky girl hanging out in the Substack corner 😂. The Adidas shorts are fun, and honestly, comfort > everything for me. Katelyn Cnossen totally inspired me to pull the trigger on that look.

Also laughing at the appointment chaos. Last month, I showed up to a surprise party a day early and totally confused the venue staff.

I used to spiral with mom guilt, but life has a way of humbling you. These days, I’ve just accepted that I’m the most unserious person in the world lol.

Appreciate you! Thanks so much for reading!!

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Meg's avatar

Yes to outfit repeating as clarity. And snap, I absolutely share your distaste for indyx entries without a profesh flatlay haha! It’s just so not a vibe!

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Traci Landy's avatar

Thank you, Meg!!! It kills my soulllll 😭😭 and I’m so type B!!

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Lee Alisha's avatar

Loved this. The sock photo cracked me up 😂

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Traci Landy's avatar

🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻 good times, good times lol.

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Maria Hyde's avatar

This was so good, Traci!! I loved reading your POV on Indyx because I'm with you when it comes to feeling overwhelmed by new apps. I had no idea you could add an item you were looking at and mix and match it with your current wardrobe to see if would work well... seems like a game changer because it takes me forever to decide whether or not to buy something! Also, I feel so seen by your intro about always being late, not knowing what time things start and missing crazy sock day!! x

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Traci Landy's avatar

Thank you for taking the time to read my work, Maria!! Honestly, if you were on Indyx I would literally beg you to style me and ooooogle over your closet! I just know it!!

Executive functioning as a Mom is not exactly my strong suit. So glad I’m not alone 🤣🫶🏻

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Ana's avatar

Okay, so the first part of this note felt like it was written by me. I chuckled at your inability to handle multiple apps at once because I'm the exact same way 😅.

Lol at your daughter's white socks. Did she mention it to you? If not, people do her! 😅 I just remembered my siblings wouldn't leave my mom (or I, the older sibling) alone whenever we had weeks like that to make extra sure we wouldn't forget.

Lol at the Waldo comment. I see it 😂😂 you're like a cool Waldo though.

Obsessed with looks 6,7,8 😍. I now want to try the white one off white pants that I own and see if I can somehow look as cool as you.

Your pups 😍

Love love reading your take on why you choose certain pieces. It's making me question why I gravitate to certain ones and not others.

Ok...this may be longer than your note 🙈

love reading your notes 💙

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Traci Landy's avatar

Best hype woman! Thank you!!! She did NOT mention it to us, so se just acted like it never happened lol! Ironically another parent noticed it 🤣

Kids can be our toughest critics! You can definitely pull off the white tank + off white bottom!!!

Thank you for the constant support 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻

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