Re: first sim does not save
It just looks like you're trying to change clothes (not "traits") and don't know how.
Create-a-sim mode is where you create outfits, like everyday and hot-weather clothing. It doesn't matter which one you're looking at when you press the tick and exit create-a-sim mode.
To have your sim change into a particular outfit, you just click on a dresser or on your sim and choose "Change Outfit" and pick the one you want from the window the pops up showing previews.
Create-a-sim mode is where you create outfits, like everyday and hot-weather clothing. It doesn't matter which one you're looking at when you press the tick and exit create-a-sim mode.
To have your sim change into a particular outfit, you just click on a dresser or on your sim and choose "Change Outfit" and pick the one you want from the window the pops up showing previews.