Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts

June 3, 2014

Quick Loft Reviews: Crochet Trim Henley & Knit Circle Skirt

I've been really enjoying Loft lately.  Nearly everything I'm wearing today is from Loft!

Quick review: Loft Crochet Trim Henley Shell; this top comes in black & a bright cobalt (online exclusive) and I really like it because it travels really well, doesn't wrinkle, and basically goes with everything from a breezy skirt & a messy bun to my favorite pair of pants for the office (the JCrew Minnie Pant). I enjoy the split neck and the general ease of wear. Retails for $44.50.

Knit Circle Skirt ($39.50) I think I've had an iteration of this skirt from Old Navy, but the Old Navy version wasn't as flattering.  I love the cut of this particular skirt; my only complaint is that the material is a little thin and showcases any fabric that's tucked underneath it -- I would rethink purchasing this skirt if you were planning to rock this with bulky sweaters or tops.

Sunnies: Loft | shop
Top: Loft Crochet Trim Henley Shell | shop
Skirt: Loft Knit Circle Skirt | shop
Shoes: Target | similar
Lips: Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick | shop

September 18, 2013

Target Xhilaration Juniors Sleeveless Low Bow Dress


Style: I love these bow dresses!  They remind me a lot of Ms. Pillsbury from Glee, and I've always loved her style. This dress is easy breezy, and it is easily appropriate for the fall and winter seasons, but it's sleeveless, so it works for the warmer months, as well.  The bow -- when it comes untied -- is a little bit low, so when rocking this dress, you just have to be a little cognizant. This dress comes in two other colors: a pretty red floral print & a yellow and green print.
Fit: Junior sizing is typically shorter -- think teeny tiny Forever 21 dresses -- so I went a size up to get a length that's more appropriate for work; unfortunately, that left me with armholes that are too big.  I really do like this dress, though so it may be worth a few simple alterations.
Quality: 100% polyester & machine washable.
Price: I found this adorably sweet dress from Target for $25.
Bottom Line: My two biggest complaints are the overly large arm openings & the lack of pockets, but otherwise, I'm a big fan. :)

What do you think? Do you think it's worth paying for some alterations or even DIY-ing it.  I can barely sew a button onto my shirt though, so I don't know how realistic going the DIY route is. :)

Earrings: Kate Spade | shop
Cardigan: JCrew | shop
Dress: Target | shop
Shoes: Ann Taylor | shop

Linked up to the Pleated Poppy.

August 28, 2013

Ann Taylor Banded Tie-Front Dress Review

Hello & happy Wednesday! Today's post is a review of the Banded Tie-Front Dress from Ann Taylor.  I picked up this little number during the last round of sales.

Fit: Fits as a shift dress. Unfortunately, I accidentally ordered a dress that was a size or two larger than what I needed.  Luckily, a belt can do wonders to give your body (and the dress) some figure-enhancing definition. As for sizing, I'd suggest getting your normal AT size or sizing down if you're between sizes.  I am wearing the petite version, and if you're shorter, I definitely recommend going with petite sizing.
Style: I love the graphic, simple, clean lines of this dress.  The color block thing works, but the side of the dress is a touch too sporty (harkens back to those high school tennis dress days).  Overall, I think the dress is very pretty, polished, and professional looking.
Quality: 100% polyester & dry clean only.  Unlined, but the material is thick and feels very substantial, so no lining is really necessary.   Not very wrinkle-prone, which I appreciate since I do spend the majority of my work day sitting.
Price:  Currently on sale for $128 $99.99, but I was able to stack codes and purchase for $36, which is a pretty great deal.
Bottom Line: I really like the vibe and style of this dress, and if my sizing was still available, I most likely would have kept this dress.  Unfortunately, most sizes are sold out online, though you may be able to find it in stores with Style Number: 308505.


Sunnies: Prada | shop - on sale for $245 $196!
Earrings: Kate Spade All Wrapped Up Glass Pearl Earrings | shop
Dress: Ann Taylor | shop
Bag: Coach Saffiano Large City Tote | shop
Belt: Target | similar
Shoes: Talbot's | similar

Linked up to the Pleated Poppy.

August 19, 2013

Ann Taylor Crepe Full Skirt Dress Review

Hello!  Hope your week is starting off well. Today, I'm rocking a vintage vibe; a full swingy skirt always makes me smile.

Fit: Based on usual Ann Taylor standards, I think this dress runs large. For my preference, it needs a hem or have the shoulders taken in an inch or two.  This is a very flattering silhouette and it also comes in a fun orange shade.
Quality: 100% viscose. Dry clean only.  Fully lined. This dress is uber wrinkly.  I think you can see some of the wrinkles in the the photos, and this doesn't lend itself to sitting for a long time, otherwise I think it can look a touch sloppy.
Price: This is currently on sale for $138 $35 (no code needed, so if you have a code, you can easily stack discounts), which I think is a fair price for a versatile dress.
Bottom Line: A great price for a pretty, if wrinkly dress.

Fashion Fundamental: Great tote -- I love mini bags (witness my love for Rebecca Minkoff's Mini MAC), and I usually travel pretty light, but when I'm carrying around a few more items (i.e. a hugely bulky sunglasses case, camera, snacks, etc.), a tote bag is a great choice.

Sunnies: Prada | shop
Earrings: Kate Spade | shop
Dress: Ann Taylor Crepe Full Skirt Dress | shop
Bag: Coach | shop {reviewed here}
Shoes: Ann Taylor | shop

Linked up to the Monday Mingle.

August 14, 2013

Maxi Moment: Mossimo Women's Color Block Maxi Dress Review


Fit: V-neck line & adjustable straps make this an easy dress to wear.  Sizing down from typical junior sizes recommended. The elastic waist can hit a little bit oddly, and as a result the top is a little blousy, & the length is a little long for me (I'm 5'3), but that's nothing a belt can't fix.
Quality: The material is 95% rayon & 5% spandex, and it feels a little bit like the parachute that you'd play with in gym class as an elementary student.  (Anyone with me there?  That was one of my favorite PE activities!) It is completely opaque, and it is a little wrinkle prone.  The material, though substantial, doesn't breathe incredibly well, so not the best for humid summer days.
Price:  This color block maxi dress retails for $29.99, a price point that's significantly cheaper than anything you'll find at some of my favorite retail establishments--JCrew, Banana, etc.
Bottom Line:  I'm a fan, and would recommend if you're looking for a cheap, colorful, and fun dress.

Fashion Fundamental: A great pair of sunglasses.  I think this might have been a fundamental that we've featured before, but a great pair of sunglasses can add just the right amount of glamor and mystery to your look. Plus, if you don't take 'em off, no one can tell that you're not wearing any makeup under there, and you still look styled & polished. :)

Sunnies: Prada | shop
Dress: Mossimo Women's Color Block Maxi Dress | shop
Belt: Taiwan | similar
Sandals: Target | shop
Bag: Rebecca Minkoff | shop

Linked up to Monday Bloom.

May 7, 2013

Coach Saffiano Tote Review


Hi friends!  Hope you're all well.  I've been slammed at work, but not so busy that I couldn't pop into a Coach boutique to check out a few potential work totes.  I've heard great things about Coach's Saffiano Line (via the always trusty PurseForum) and wanted to check it out for myself; the bags come in a range of great colors, sizes, and shapes.

I was looking for a bag that is roomy enough for me to carry my bulky computer, miscellaneous computer paraphernalia, a pair of flats, snacks, water bottle, lunch, etc.; needless to say, I need a fair amount of bag capacity because I'll be toting a lot around with me, but I also want to ensure my bag is light and comfortable to carry.  I also have a marked preference for bags with a full zippered closure and practical straps that are long enough to sling over my shoulder.  With all of those must-haves on my list, I wanted to share a bag that fits the bill.

The first bag I gravitated towards is the Saffiano Large Tote ($358):  It's made of Saffiano leather (15" L x 12 1/4" H x 6 1/2" W) with a fabric lining and a zip-top and a 9.5" strap drop.  I love this cheery shade of red, too.  Saffiano leather is touted to be durable and relatively light which is perfect for my needs; check out Extra Petite for more information on Saffiano leather.



November 13, 2012

Halogen Ponte Pencil Skirt

I'm a little bummed that this is likely the last time this season that I'll be rocking bare legs; after some mild 60 degree weather, it's suddenly freezing in the Midwest!

On to the skirt, I am a huge fan of this skirt; I like the bold pattern in a classic color combo;  it's currently only $19.97--65% off.  That's better than Forever 21 pricing!

Fit: Fits fairly well.  Slight gap in the waist, but I feel like if I sized down, then the skirt would be slightly too short.
Quality: Unlined. This skirt is made of a rayon/polyester/spandex blend and is thus machine washable. The material feels sturdy and well-made.
Price: Originally $59. I actually purchased for $34, and noticed that it was marked down to $19.97.  As always, Nordstrom has excellent customer service (I love their Live Chat feature... no messing around with automated systems for a simple price adjustment).
Bottom Line: Definitely recommended because it's super comfortable, stretchy, and fits well.  A lot of pencil skirts can be very structured and uncomfortable, but I think the ponte material and stretchiness really help keep you comfy, though if you hate an unlined skirt, this might not be right for you.


Sunnies: Maui Jim | shop
Cardigan: JCrew | similar
Top: JCrew | similar in fuchsia
Skirt: Halogen via Nordstrom ($59 $19.97) | shop
Heels: Ann Taylor | shop
Lips: Revlon Lip Butter in Berry Smoothie | shop

October 2, 2012

Twice : Reselling Clothes the Easy Way


Aili and I have recently been doing our best to pare down our closets and get rid of anything that we haven't worn in a year or more, as well as deal with any items that need to be altered, tailored, or repaired.  Luckily, I found out about Twice through a Facebook friend (social media FTW!).  Think of Twice as the online version of your local Plato's Closet--except easier.  You let them know what you want to sell, they send you a pre-paid shipping label, and make an offer up-front on your items. They'll pay you via PayPal or a mailed check, then in turn re-sell your items; you can learn more about how it all works here.

Best, most ingenious part of this?  You'll likely ship your items through USPS's priority mail system, so you can even save a trip to the post office and schedule a pick up via usps.com.  Best thing ever.

Like Plato's Closet, Twice asks that your items be relatively recent (purchased within the last 5 years) and in good, re-salable condition; they will purchase your items from anywhere between $2 and $150+ depending on brand, condition, and style of the piece. They accept items from stores with price points ranging from Gap and American Eagle to YSL and Burberry.

Whenever I'm looking to minimize and get rid of the clothing and shoes that I no longer wear, I get the feeling that I should be re-selling them on e-Bay or even Threadflip.  As easy as these companies make it to re-sell your stuff.... let's be honest,  it's a little bit of a hassle.  You have the photograph and describe the item, price it, deal with PayPal, notoriously frugal e-Bay buyers  who love to review sellers (I would know, I'm one of 'em), find a box to ship your item, pack and tape the item, find time to go to the post office, pay for shipping, address the package just to make a few extra bucks.  lol.  Some people may enjoy doing all that, and I get that.  I really do, but for me it's just not worth it.  I'd much rather simply drop off my stuff at Goodwill... someone will even help me unload it there. :D  So Twice is the perfect option for those lazies, like me.  All that being said, you'll likely make more selling your old clothes on e-Bay and Threadflip--where you get to dictate minimum bids than you would selling at Twice.

Room for Improvement: When you have several items to inventory (we were selling 60+), you have to input every single item by noting brand and type of item (i.e. top, pants, dress, etc.).  If you have a lot of items, then that gets to be a little annoying.  As far as I know, your inventory list doesn't save either, and I think that would be a nice feature because over the course of a weekend, I kept trying to log onto Twice, but kept receiving error messages.  I know they're a new company, so I'm sure they're still working out the kinks.  Currently, Twice only carries women's clothes, but options for men and children are in the works.

Bottom line: Big fan, and I'll be using their services in the future.  If you're interested in buying or selling, feel free to sign up for Twice via our referral link, and you'll receive a $10 credit to shop with.  I'd also check out their social media sites, as they occasionally offer discounts on your purchases.  Plus, Twice also offers 24/7 customer service and free returns.


September 25, 2012

Wear it Both Ways: Lands' End Canvas Sleeveless Striped Dress

These two looks are anchored by a very versatile dress--the Sleeveless Striped Dress by Lands' End Canvas--currently on sale for $60 $24.99.  I wear this dress all of the time because it's super comfy,  easy, and washes extremely well.  Plus, I love the ultra-flattering fit-and-flare shape.  It's a touch high-waisted, so ladies with a shorter torso are better off with this

100% cotton, machine wash, and Lands' End and Lands' End Canvas items are covered under a generous return policy.  I am a fan.  This dress is made of a mid-weight, soft cotton jersey that is perfect for fall (a bit heavy for summer in my opinion, but hey, I suppose you can get multiple seasons of wear out of it) and layering.

My only complaint: the arm holes--near the underarm--reveal a little bit more skin than I'd prefer.  All in all, it's a small complaint, so I'm very happy with this lovely dress.

Dress: Lands' End Canvas | shop - last seen here
Cardigan: Lands' End Canvas | similar
Pleated Top: LOFT | similar in a pretty green
Belt: JCrew | similar
Boots: Melissa Button, Frye | shop {reviewed here}
Earrings: Kate Spade | similar

Top: JCrew | shop the dress version here
Shoes: Nine West | similar
Earrings: Kate Spade | similar
Headband: JCrew

Linked up at Real Girl Glam.

July 18, 2012

Gap Flat Front Canvas Shorts Review























I have a hard time finding shorts that fit me well.  All summer I've been on the lookout, I've tried on shorts pretty much everywhere from Nordstrom and Ralph Lauren to Forever 21 and Sears. I even tried out Aili's much loved 3" chino short by JCrew or even Uniqlo's roll-up chino shorts will fit in the hips and thigh, but not in the waist.  Or vice versa.  

Aili suggested I try out Gap's shorts, but for some reason, I was skeptical... I'm not sure why, Gap bottoms haven't let me down in the past (with the exception of their skirts, which I think are way too short, but that's another blog post. :D), and the canvas shorts are a winner; pick 'em up for any price between $19.99 and $49.95.  It seems like prices may be better in stores. I also like Gap's boyfriend roll up shorts are a good alternative if you prefer a longer length.

I really enjoy these flat-front shorts because the pockets don't add any bulk, and they're ultra flattering.  They're made of 100% cotton & machine washable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns (ikat or tribal-inspired stripes) and inseams (petite at 3", regular sizing at 4", and tall at 5").

In my experience, they are a tad wrinkly (but nothing compared to my linen city mini by JCrew) and the front pockets--while quite slim and flattering--don't have much capacity.  Anyway, I'm a fan.

Shades: Prada | shop
Shorts: Gap | shop
Sandals: Target | shop
Bag: Rebecca Minkoff | shop
Cardigan: JCrew | similar
Plaid Cami: JC Penney | similar
Yellow Top: Swingy Sleeveless Polo, LOFT | shop
Nails: Bikini so Teeny & Meet me at Sunset, Essie | shop

Linked up at Real Girl Real Glam.

July 11, 2012

JCrew City Mini in Linen







































I have long liked the city mini (full price is between $80-$85 depending on material), but couldn't justify the high price tag.  I finally picked the summery linen version up for just over $20 (final sale) during JCrew's latest round of promotions.

Overall, I do like it. It's light and airy, and pairs well with pretty much everything.  On-seam pockets are a win, and I dig the paper bag waist.  It's 100% linen, but is obviously ultra-wrinkly.  Some people look very chic in summery linen, unfortunately, I just look a touch unkempt.  lol.

The blousy shirt didn't help this look either; in my head, this look was very cute and feminine, but it didn't translate super well in person.  Next time I'll go with a slimmer cut top.

Wrinkles and all, I am still a fan of this skirt.

How do you keep your linen looking crisp and beachy instead of crinkly?  Or is it impossible?  Let me know in the comments, please! :)

P.S. According to the tag this is dry clean only.   Boo.

Sunnies: LOFT | shop
Earrings: LOFT | similar
Top: LOFT | similar in pink
Skirt: City Mini in Linen, JCrew | shop
Shoes: Target | shop
Bag: Rebecca Minkoff | shop
Toes: Meet Me at Sunset, Essie | shop

Linked up at two thirty-five designs.

July 2, 2012

Uniqlo V-Neck UV Cut Cardigan Review






































I am a cardigan junkie; so far my favorite cardigans are from JCrew--the Jackie and Jenna Cardigans are my personal favorites. On our trip to NYC, Aili and I picked up some essentials and and we also developed a love for Uniqlo's affordable prices.  

One of my favorite items from our Uniqlo haul was the Uniqlo V-Neck UV Cut Cardigan, which is composed of 60% acrylic, 40% cotton.  Made in China.  

I would say that these cardigans fit true to size, are simple in design, and well-made, and very soft. Plus, they feature some UV protection. According to the tag, UV Cut "offers UV filtration features that have been added during fabric processing.  A UPF rating of 15 indicates it will take 15 times longer to get sunburned than with bare skin."  I think that is pretty cool.  No sunscreen necessary when you're rocking a Uniqlo cardi.


Happy July!

Earrings: Forever Audrey, Jewelmint | similar
Top: JCrew | similar - last styled here.
Bracelets: Taiwan | similar
Shorts: Nordstrom | similar
Shoes: Target | shop
Nail: Calypso Blue (440), Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure | shop

Linked up at the Monday Mingle.

June 26, 2012

Banana Republic Callie Shirt Dress Review


























I did see this dress in stores for full price, so definitely check it out online where it's already on sale.  It comes in corally pink, stone, and black. Banana Republic carries the Callie Shirtdress in tall, regular, and petite sizing online. 

The 97% cotton + 3% spandex composition makes for a nicely fitting dress that is still comfortable.  Plus, this bad boy is machine washable = a big win in my book.  Runs TTS for me.  On seam pockets and sleeves are often features that I look for in dresses, and this shirtdress definitely has both!  The style is both flattering and classic.

I think this is a great, lightweight, and comfortable dress for the warmer months.  It is definitely easy to style; a simple pin or statement necklace will keep this dress polished and pretty.  Gals with a larger bust may want to size up or skip this dress all together.

Overall, I think I'd be better off with petite sizing because I prefer a shorter skirt length; that being said, I do like (but don't love) the dress. What do you think?  Should I keep this dress or return it?


Sunglasses: 0PR 01OS, Prada | shop
Earrings: LOFT | similar
Flower Pin: Heather Chiffon Clip in Aqua, PrettyMuch.ca - Won in a giveaway held by Momtrends, BonBonRoseGirl, and Glamamom! | shop
Dress: Banana Republic  $130 $79.99 | shop
Shoes: Hondo Platform Pumps, Guess $90 $63| shop
Nails: Bikini So Teeny, Essie | shop

Linked up at Watch out for the Woestmans.

June 1, 2012

Target's Mossimo Winifred Braided Flat Sandal Review







































After keeping this dress in heavy rotation during the cooler months, I forgot about it in the excitement of sandals, summer shorts, and bikini season.  When I was weeding out my winter wardrobe, I spotted the bright color in my closet and decided this dress would work wonderfully in the warmer months as well.

Speaking of these warmer months, Aili recently picked up these braided sandals for me, and I love them.  They're super comfortable, cheap (inevitably, these shoes only last 1 season regardless of price point), and are roomy enough for my wide feet.  Plus you can slide 'em right on.  In the summer time, I can't be bothered to with  inconvenient teeny tiny buckles and straps.  In fact, I even have a pair of Target t-strap sandals that require a time-consuming buckle, and I  haven't worn them once.    Anyway, if you're on the lookout for summer sandals, check out Target.

Happy first day of June!

Headband: JCrew
Dress: F21 | similar in white
Belt: Taiwan | similar
Shoes: Winifred Braided Flat Sandal, Target ($14.99) | shop
Bag: Mini MAC, Rebecca Minkoff | shop

May 24, 2012

Alice+Olivia Anita Striped Dress & French Connection Unno Cap Sleeve Dress

Hello from the fitting room!  In light of all of the upcoming Memorial Day sales, I wanted to share two dresses that I've been loving lately.  Memorial Day is one of my favorite three-day weekends; who doesn't love the start of summer?  BBQs, beach, and chino shorts are calling my name.








































Unno Cotton Cap Sleeve Dress, French Connection ($188) | shop
Every girl needs a classic LWD (the summer version of the LBD), and I think structured one from French Connection is a good option.







































Anita Striped Belted Dress, Alice + Olivia ($396) | shop
I'm in love with this dress; it's fun and whimsical.  Plus the back of the dress has a really sweet button detail; I didn't manage to snap a photo of it, but check it out here.

I hope everyone has a safe and fun-filled holiday weekend.