Madewell Review: Ryder Sweater, Leather-Trim Tee Dress, Daywalk Shirtdress, Silk Fable Dress et al

I haven't been super inspired by Madewell recently. The whole oversized drapey look can be so hard to pull off, especially when you're busty and you really need a little cinch at the waist to prove you have one! But, I love some of what I saw online and just *had* to peek in the store the other day. Plus I love their customer service - their SA's are so nice and always willing to go the extra mile.

Shapemix Lariat Necklace

Of all the jewelry I've purchased in the past few years (which granted is not much, I'm a bit of a jewelry phobe) the majority of what I actually end up wearing is Madewell. They just do edgy fun jewelry so well. This one missed the mark for me a bit. Too long and a bit blah. I'm really interested in the look of this one - a bit more delicate. Really dying over this one. I've been craving a layered necklace that I don't have to do myself and I think this may fit the bill. Of course this one has become a classic at Madewell and I must admit that I wear mine quite often.

 Ryder Cardigan Sweater (S), you can also buy it here for less.  Weird.

Hmm, yeah. I know this is a size up for me but still - CRAZY big. David Byrne style. On a good note, the knit is the most delicious soft yummy thing ever. And the color is great and very this fall.

 Leather-Trim Tailored Tee Dress (XS)

Cute cute cute. It has shape and yet is not fitted. I would say it's slightly a-line. Very comfortable on and just chic and simple. If I needed another black dress I would be temped. I might consider the XXS but I didn't want this to be grabby anywhere. If you're looking for long sleeves, this little number by Vince is adorable and so casual cool.

 Daywalk Shirtdress in Fairfax Plaid (XXS), also in Blue Buffalo Check as the Latitude Shirtdress and in Kemp Plaid

Oooo I wanted this to work. I love plaid, shirtdresses and flannel so all of them combined in one item is like a dream for me. I didn't mind the "nightgownishness" of it but... the pockets. Dang it. They really added bulk. I suppose you could have them taken out but that just seems silly. Definitely size down on this one. This one is SO SHORT but oh my do I love the plaid. This version from Off 5th looks more refined than lumberjack. I've never heard of this label but I like the look of it and Yoox is offering 20% right now!

 Silk Fable Dress (size 2) in Geometric Brick

The color! Divine. It is a great little dress, TTS. It's simple, elegant and makes your waist look small. The detail at the bustline is something I don't need and I think my ample chest size is maybe throwing the top off balance. See that weird poufing out in the back? I'm not sure how to explain that :)

 Eyelet Lovesong Dress (size 0)

Ok. This was $29.99 + 30% off + educator discount. It is too tight at the bust but I took a gamble that it would fit fine when I finished nursing because it is so freakin' cute. LOVE it. Love white eyelet and this is just simple, sweet and comfortable. Madewell always does lots of cute stuff in eyelet and I wish I had seen this dress because the shape looks awesome.

 Anthem Short-Sleeve Scoop Tee (XS) in Heather Poppy

Cute and comfy, nice drape. I did walk out with several tees. This one in two colors and this one in one color. The first is going to be my new go to tee. I might buy a bunch more. It just feels perfectly slouchy and cool for a t-shirt without looking sloppy. I'll try to post pics later.

Anthropologie Review: Ribboned Poplin Dress and Shoreline Tunic

I never have quite as much luck at Anthropologie in the summer as I do in the winter. I love their slouchy, cozy sweaters and cords but some of the summer offerings are too hippie dippie for me. I LOVE the way they look in the catalogue but not as much on my body. Nonetheless, the 30% lured me in and I found a real gem!

Ribboned Poplin Dress (size 2), also in sold in a lovely blue

This dress is available in all sizes online! I couldn't believe it - I think it's adorable. The size 2 (my normal size  - size 0 at J Crew) was SNUG. I ordered a 4 and can say that it fits perfectly - in fact better because the waist doesn't sit as high. The cotton is lovely to the touch and it is fully lined - hallelujah! I think the bow is supposed to be tied in the front so it doesn't look so waitress-y. It's also available in an adorable checker print. With discount it was $20.99??? Now my only problem is deciding which one to keep. The navy one is also beautiful but I'll have to wait for sale on that one.
If you're looking for long sleeves I saw this dress over at Neiman Marcus by Theory. It's so cute and I love the color.
This Tory Burch shirtdress is also on sale. I love the print!
This Rebecca Taylor dress, also in white, looks edgier with the mesh but still maintains a beautiful silhouette.
And how about this Diane von Furstenberg? Love the fun print - a different take on a similar style.

 Shoreline Tunic (XS)

I just wasn't sure where or how I would wear this one. The XS felt pretty loose so I think you could stay in your size or size down on this one. I liked the pattern but didn't feel like it was a personality match for me. I guess you wear this over skinny jeans? Just not sure where I'd wear it.
I think if I'm going to do an Anthropologie tunic I might go with a more neutral print like this one.
Or something just completely neutral like this one. Love that rose color.
Byron Lars always does unique items and his tie-waist tunic is amazing. That is some serious drama tunic style.

Can't wait for some more fall arrivals. I already see many sweaters that I am interested in. How about you?

J. Crew Review: Vintage Scarf Print, Toothpick Cone Denim, Broken-In Boyfriend, Skinny Cargo and Ryder Pant

I'm trying to put a hold on purchasing anything now that crazy summer clearance time seems to be (almost) over. I really need to weed through my closet to see if I actually NEED anything instead of just shoving more stuff in there because it looked shiny and new. Of course, J Crew makes that hard but I'm planning on just figuring out my size in the items that really call to me and then setting a price  that I'm willing to pay for them. Then wait for a sale!

Cropped Pant in Vintage Scarf Print (size 0)

I wanted to try these again. I previously tried them in a size 2 (see my review here). The size 0 fit well but they are so unflattering! Baggy around hips and butt and too much fabric in the crotch area and behind the thighs. It's a shame because the print is lovely and the color is gorgeous. I think I gained 10 lbs just trying them on.

 Flutter Mini Skirt in Vintage Scarf Print (size 2)
Cap-Sleeve Floral Lace Top (size 0)

I like this skirt a lot. The stiffer fabric is really cute - I like a little structure. I'm still not sure if this silhouette isn't a little too young for me. The size 0 was definitely too snug but the size 2 was slightly big so I feel like I'm sort of in between sizes which may mean this skirt runs slightly small. It may have more to do with the fact that the fabric has no give. The blouse is really nice and I will review that soon. The vintage scarf print is not working for me clothes-wise but I was thinking of giving this item a try instead. That way I still get to enjoy the print!

Stretch Toothpick Cone Denim Jean in Durant Wash (size 26)

These fit but just. That being said I always size up in the toothpicks to a size 27. I liked these. I read some online reviews that said they ripped while they were trying them on! Luckily that didn't happen to me. The wash is nice although again maybe only for the 20 somethings? I don't know. Tempting on sale. They are super inexpensive right now!

 Slim Broken-In Boyfriend Jean in Michel Wash (size 26)

Boyfriend jeans! I so want them to work for me but so far am having no luck. I tried a different pair from the Crew earlier (see review here) and they had some similar problems. I liked these a lot better but they still felt like they had too much material at the hips (altohugh clearly the bum fits fine if not snug for boyfriend style). The length was also much better on these. Overall they are decent but I still don't feel like they are doing much for my body.

 Skinny Stretch Cargo (size 26)

Love a good cargo pant and no one does the like J Crew. I just wish they would do away with those darn flap pockets. Lord those look bad on my butt. Love this color which is perhaps in store only since I didn't see it on the website... The fit in my usual 26 was spot on but I didn't even consider them with those pockets. If these are the only offerings at J Crew this year i may have to search elsewhere. These J Brand ones are on clearance at Bluefly but I'm not sure about the side pockets. Ireally like these Current/Elliot ones as well but there are only a few sizes left, and they are not my size :( And, I don't know much about Blank denim but I love the color of these and the price is not bad either!

 Ryder Pant (size 0) in Weathered Spruce

Yikes. The Ryder pant is not good on me. I can't even show ou the back view because it's x-rated. Sort of reverse camel toe if you will. I like the color of these - sort of grey but with more depth to it. The pockets make the sides of the pants lumpy which is the last thing I want. The size 0 fit but was a little snug so maybe I sized up? I've never liked the Minnies either so it's no huge surprise that these aren't working for me. If I need skinny, strretchy work pants, I'll get these which I just purchased for 50% off. I also own them in this lovely textured fabric which sort of passes for a dressier, cleaner version of chambray.

 Tweed Sweater-Jacket with Fringe Trim (XS)

Oh la la! Very Chanel-esque. The fabric is soft to the touch and the front part is lined. What's annoying is that the arms aren't lined and the fabric did itch just the teeniest bit. The fringe is delicate and fun and the fabric is really nice. Drapes well since it's more of a sweater than a jacket. The little hook closures along the front are cute as well. TTS. Also found this cute little leather trim version over at Nordstrom that I like. A bit more casual. I'm also loving this striped version for a more casual vibe. And, if you like the subtle fringe, I think this one by Joie is pretty cute.

J. Crew Review: New Tippi Sweater and Postage-Stamp Mini Skirt in Polynesian Floral

A few more reviews of items that are not so new... oops. Trying to get more timely about my posts...

Postage-Stamp Mini Skirt in Polynesian Floral (size 0)

I reviewed this before but I was curious about how my usual size 0 would fit. The 2 fit great on my hips and sort of hung in a nice way but I was worried I had made a mistake buying it. Nope! This 0 is TIGHT and not in a good way. The waistband fit well but way up on my waist and I prefer this type of skirt sit lower on my hips. Plus it's hugging the ol' rear waaaay too tightly. Still a cute skirt and love the overall shape.

 Tippi Sweater (XS) in Heather Neon Orchid

I know lots of people are not thrilled with the new tippi but I like the longer sleeves. I have monkey arms for someone my size so I'm always appreciative of longer sleeves. I've never really been in love with the Tippi. I think I want a more open neckline. I do like the length and fit of this. The XS always feels slightly tight but I think overall it gives a nice shape. I didn't find this color too "neon" but I do think it's a tricky color to pull off.

If I need some more basic sweates I might pick up a couple of these over at Madewell. They are definitely slouchy but the merino is so fine and pleasant feeling. I don't know how the new ones run but the one last year ran pretty big. I think you can size down.
I probably wear cardigans more than anything and can't wait to check out this one from J Crew. Usually their long cardigans are TOO long but I'm hoping this one is improved.
Also, who could resist a camo cardigan? I can't decide if it's silly or fabulous but I definitely want to try it out. This pullover by BR is so gorgeous in the black rose color I can hardly stand it. Yum.

It's going to be in the 90's here this week, so a little early to be thinking sweaters but I can't wait. Makes me excited to unpack all my favorites from last season!

J. Crew Review: Perforated Eyelet A-Line Skirt

I have a lot of reviews to get up for you sale shoppers but school just started and I am not quite on top of things. I think J Crew is really trying to turn things around this fall so let's hope it works. So far the dresses have been excellent. We'll see what else turns around (please let their pants start working for me again). Here's a quickie skirt review:

Perforated Eyelet A-Line Skirt (size 0) in Crimson Maple

I was really attracted to the color which is absolutely lovely. I've seen this skirt on others and love it. It's just not a style match for me. Anyhoo, my usual size 0 fit well / maybe even a tiny bit snug. It's hard to tell since my waist is always fluctuating. I like these skirts to fit AT my waist and pretty snugly otherwise I feel like I'm tugging them up all day and they don't look as flattering.

I think it's fine but I don't love that back view. The long a-line skirt look just doesn't work great for me when it hits on the widest part of my butt and then keeps on going out. I need a little more drape. If you have less "underbutt" you might do fine. I like the detail at the bottom where the eyelet changes to these little half-domes. Very cute.

I am getting more into the "midi" length thing. It's convenient to not always be thinking about too much skin showing if you're chasing your kid at the playground. Plus there is something elegant about it. I bought the skirt in this print (sorry the skirt is sold out for now here is the link to the skirt version which is lovely and keeps on popping back in a variety of sizes) and I think I like the shape better. I'll review it when it comes. I like the idea of this eyelet skirt at Anthropologie because I think the peekaboo effect with the shorter lining is pretty cute. I'd be curious to try out this other one from J Crew. It's so hard to tell what it looks like IRL!

For now I'm excited to receive the correct size of the skirt in this print. Oh my! It's so gorgeous! I just love yellow and was so pleased that my size finally popped back.

More to come! Hope the end of summer is treating everyone well!

J. Crew Review: Some Geo Brushstroke, Stripe Mini and Broken-In Boyfriend Jean

School is revving up and so am I :) Trying to squeeze in some reviews before things really get crazy. So without much further ado - here they are:

Geo Brushstroke Short (size 2)

I really like crazy shorts. I have lots of plain tees and tanks so I am happy to add some fun in the bottom half. I felt like this pattern overwhelmed me on top or in the skirt version but the shorts are so cute! The subtle pleats are very flattering and the higher waist actually works on these - WHICH IS CRAZY BECAUSE I DEPISE HIGH WAISTS. Somehow the short inseam also feels totally modest. They are lined in cotton so you need to wear sort of "slippery" underwear for them to lay right. They feel slightly dressy. I usually wear a 2 in JC Shorts because I would way rather them be a bit big than too small.  The 2 was slightly big in the waist but good everywhere else.

The back view is a little dubious but with my shirt pulled down I don't mind it. Trying to show the higher rise here. I also like these shorts over at Ella Moss. The pattern is really nice and both colorways are slightly more muted. Recently tried these Ikat Print shorts over at BR. They are super comfy loungy and yet I think the pattern elevates them a bit. Already mentioned my obsession with the easy shorts in marble and watercolor floral - just have to decide which pair I want to buy!

Stripe Mini Skirt (size 0)

Rah rah siss boom bah, goooooo J Crew! Holy cheerleader. Too short and too full. The stripes are super cute and I liked the cotton but yowsers. Too youthful. The size 0 fit pretty perfectly so TTS.

I don't know what this pose is but here ya go. Maybe trying to channel my 25 year old self?

Ok. I have no money for Victoria Beckham (plus it still sort of gets my goat that Posh Spice designs such fabulous clothes) but this skirt is really fabulous. Love the a-line of this one and the pockets with horizontal stripes. And this one is completely different with its multi-colored crochetedness! I am going to have to check out Top Shop very soon.... 

Broken-In Boyfriend Jean in Freddie Wash (size 26)

I'd like a boyfriend jean but these are not the ones. The wash is a little unusual - very white down the front of the thighs. They are super comfortable but definitely too big. I would happily exchange for another size but what actually bothered me is how short they were. They don't look it in the pictures but they felt weird in the length.

Close up of the unflattering white wash. I would try these jeans in a different wash and a size down. Definite potential and very comfortable.
These Acne Studios ones look pretty cool. This other option from J Crew looks encouraging - I like the word slim along with boyfriend. Probably more along the lines of what I'm looking for. Rag & Bone makes some nice denim among other things. They definitely have that cool factor. And of course, good ol' favorite Madewell. The rise will probably be too high but I really like the wash. Distressed without being trashed.

Do you have any favorite boyfriend denim?