Hello old friends...and some J Crew Review

Hello! I am slowly trying to dip my toe back in the waters of blogging. I was not intending to take such a long hiatus but between the ever growing platforms of instagram and snapchat and a bit of personal upheaval, I thought it best.

We have moved. As in to a new state, a new life, a new everything. And it has been hard. In some ways, we have come home - family, where I went to high school, where my husband grew up. But in other ways, it is completely new. It all happened rather suddenly so the past few months have been spent frantically putting our house on the market, getting my oldest daughter into school, scrambling for a house, trying to find a job, and basically losing my mind. In the midst of all the stress and craziness I have also definitely packed on a few pounds so shopping has not really been at the top of my list. Nonetheless, I thought it might be nice to return to something that used to bring me great pleasure. Try it out, see if it feels good in a new space. So here I am!

Merino Wool Sweater-Blazer (XS) in Navy

 I have officially decided that blazers are just not for me. I do own a few but I am vowing not to add any more to my collection unless I am really over the moon about them. Something about the proportions just never works for me. Anyway, on the upside - this one is very comfortable, comes in a nice navy and has that boyfriend slouchy vibe going on. In fact, I'd be tempted to size up to make it even more so that way. The knit is thick and very comfortable and I think a lot of people will like it.

 Ruffled Popover Shirt in Polka Dot (size 00)

 I am neither into polka dots or ruffles but I really liked this top. The size 00 basically fit fine except it was super tight on the hips (which is apparently where all poundage has migrated recently). It is very light - so more of a spring/summer blouse IMO - but it is adorable. the ruffles here are so subtle and sweet.

Trying to get a close-up of the ruffle placket. Understated but charming along with the ruffle cuffs. I definitely have my eye on this one but would go with my normal size 2 or 0.

 Perfect Shirt in Liberty Arts Isborella Print (size 2)

 Everyone has been saying this runs a bit small. I think it runs slightly smaller than your average J Crew Shirt but nothing crazy. I still think I would buy a size 2 as I like my shirts fitted.

 The print is lovely and light. I wasn't initially drawn to it but I have so many dark floral shirts that I thought something with a white background and lighter colors might be a nice addition to my closet.

Garment-Dyed Pique Polo Shirt (XS) in Navy

I'd say this runs slightly small up top. It's an adorable basic polo but is not doing me any favors in the belly department. And I think I need a better bra. Ok, maybe it's me and not the polo. Nice thick pique. Runs slightly short.

 Always Chambray Shirt (size 00)

 I have been stalking this shirt forever, i just don't want to pay that much for it. I vacillate between a 0 and a 2 at J Crew and the 00 actually fit pretty well. I liked how it looked in the body but it was slightly snug at the hips. Once I've dumped the stress weight I think it would look good. I am looking for a more fitted chambray shirt to dress down some pants and skirts I have but still look neat and tidy. I LOVE this shirt. It will be mine eventually.

 Short-Sleeve Popover Shirt in Chambray (size 0)

 I don't even know what to say about this one. Judy Jetson meets Rosie the Riveter. It is so bad on my body. It does cover the tush which is good but those sleeves... good heavens.

 Eyelet Short (size XS) in vibrant red

 I had never noticed these but I do love J Crew's pull-on shorts. Easy, comfy, elastic waist - yay! These have a slightly longer inseam which I also liked. Very casual and yet interesting with the eyelet detail. Very good price with the current promo - $18!

 Sunday Slim Chino (size 0)

 I thought these were something else. I REALLY want to love the Sunday Slim Chino but the rise it just a bit too high for me. The leg is perfect - love the slight slouch - but the rise is a no no for me. Otherwise, adorable.

 Spaghetti-Strap Dress in Polka Dot (size 2)

 I would say this is TTS. Very sweet little dress. I tried the similar style in the Ratti Happy Cat Print which I will review soon. I think if anything I'll try the Midi Shirtdress in Stripe. Still interested in trying this cute little shirtdress as well. By the way, did anyone ever notice this Mara Hoffman Dress? I guess it went on sale and I missed it. Boo. Adorable!

 Here is the back which I particularly liked. I feel like a low back is a great way to add just a little bit of sex appeal. Well done JCrew.

Sammie Pant in Corduroy (size 2) in pale rose

 LOVE this color. The jury's still out on the whole cropped flare pant thing for me. The top part is lovely. I'm not buying any pants until I go to the gym again ;)

Also tried these shorts and these shorts. I liked then both and will return with a review soon.

Is anyone else holding out for 50% off or further reductions? I feel like most stuff is just sticking around in the sale section and I'm just waiting for it to drop in price a bit.

Happy almost September!