J. Crew Review: Plaids and lace

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Boy Shirt in Blue Pacey Plaid (size P2)

 I apologize - the link is to the other Pacey Plaid because I cannot find a link to this one. Anyhoo - P2 is not my usual size but I really wanted to try this shirt before the return of final sale and it was the only size they had left. I actually like the way it fits except the arms are just a little too short. The fabric is fairly thick - in a good way - I actually quite liked it. I also like the vibrancy of the complementary colors - orange and blue - a nice and unusual combo for a plaid shirt. Wish those darn arms were longer in the petite. I think the body would be too long in the regular.

Close up of the colors - I'd say this is pretty true to the colors IRL.

 Boy Shirt in Dawson Plaid (size 0)

 I saw this in store and was attracted to the beautiful muted tones. This is a size down from my sort of normal shirt size at J Crew (who knows these days with all the crazy oversize fits) and there is still plenty of room. The material is quite thin and the shirt is LONG. I feel like I'm drowning in it a bit but it is beautiful.

 Ah. nice muted colors. My husband really liked this one but I'm not sure that it doesn't look too baggy. It comes in a scarf version which I'm pretty sure I'm destined to buy.

Boyfriend Flannel Shirt in Dark Plaid (size 0)

 Ok. This is seriously weird. I tried this shirt on last winter and returned it and then suddenly the other day there was a full size run available. It's been sold out for AGES! Even weirder is that the material feels totally different. The one I ordered last year was SOFT and fuzzy like an old flannel and this one almost felt rayon-y. The fit is just sort of off - the side slits are too high and the pocket are not exactly loving me.

I do love the different color combination. 

Other Plaid Shirts I'm contemplating:

Sleeveless Lace Shift Dress (size 0)

Ugh. I love this dress because it's so darn cute and yet so darn comfortable and the vee is just low enough. The lace is REALLY nice. I would never have even thought to order the grey until I saw Gigi talking about it here.

I'd say this was TTS for me for shift dresses. I almost always go down a size when it's a shift. It's really lovely and a deal on sale right now! I might have to keep the grey and the navy!

I also tried Madewell's floral lace shift dress which is very cute and comfy but much thinner.

If you're looking for a slightly more bohemiam vibe check out this one from Nordstrom. I LOVE it. Definitely less dressy but probably more work appropriate for me.

I also love this Ella Moss version in a similar colorway. Definitely dressy and sexy with the detailing on the back. Check out this Lucky Brand version - again a little more casual but looks so comfortable and yet fun at the same time. Of course good ol' Forever 21 does a cute version for $17?!?!? And finally, this subdued one from White House Black Market is quite elegant.

Wondering what Black Friday will bring. I feel like I am usually disappointed by the major holiday promos at J Crew. Plus until that final sale goes away, I'm probably not going to bite on much. How about you?

J. Crew Review: Sequin Herringbone, Perfect Party Skirt and Windowpane Jacquard Mini

I can't believe I'm already thinking about the holidays and it's not even December. I can't help it though - I LOVE this time of year. We dragged the kiddos to the mall the other day (who am I kidding - they love it) and my toddler was mesmerized by the giant holidays balls and snowflakes hanging from the ceiling. My 6 year old chose every single set from the Lego Store and I got a few minutes to go in J Crew. Happy holidays indeed! We don't go to the mall too often - most people around here hate it (I have no idea why - I think it's convenient and awesome) - but my daughter loves it. She said, "I love it here. Everyone just looks so happy". Tee hee. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

Martie Pant in Sequin Herringbone (size 2)

I'm usually a size 0 so I would definitely say that these run small. Of course I have also gained about 4-5 pounds recently because of Halloween candy and I think hormones. Baby's nursing less and everything is rebalancing so here we are. Anyhoo, I think as soon as I stop eating crap from 9-11 I'll be just fine. They are very lovely pants and the sequin is subtle enough that I think they could work for day. The length is perfect for me (5'4") and I like that they are not "grabby" anywhere. Felt very classy.

 The Perfect Party Skirt (Size 0)

I'm showing a close-up of the lace because I'm just not loving how it's thrown on there. I find it a bit strange. This also fit a bit snug for a size 0 but I think a size 2 might be too big. I would not call this a party skirt - more of a office party skirt?

 Zip Mini Skirt in Windowpane Jacquard (size 2)

I never gave this a second look online because it just didn't appeal to me. Even in these pictures I find the colors a bit dull. But, in person, the fabric is really gorgeous - so many beautiful colors to pull from. I do often size up in the minis so I think this is TTS. It's a thick fabric and I just felt like it looked a little too stiff on - wasn't as flattering as I wanted it to be. I might try it on again after I kick my bloat pounds :). It's on sale and also comes in this cute dress and these even more adorable pants that I just may have to try.

What have you liked from this most recent rollout?

J. Crew Review: Campbell Blazer, Perfect Shirt in Stewart Plaid and others

New arrivals are here and they are altogether pretty darn cute. I still don't understand what is going on with pants at JCrew - I really wish they would bring back the cafe capri (not updated please) and the andie chino but... I'm loving all the plaids. I am a total plaid addict and there are some cute ones right now. I love the Ridge Plaid - reminds me of a plaid they put out about 5 (?) years ago that I never added to my closet. Also wish I had been able to try the already sold out Black Watch Tuxedo Pant.  I'm trying to mostly resist until after Christmas sales (boy that seems a long time off) but I'm enjoying making spending plans :)

 Collection Featherweight Cashmere Long-Sleeve T-Shirt (XS)

The online reviews say this Cashmere T is itchy but I didn't find that to be case at all and I'm pretty sensitive to sweaters. It is really thin but I expected that since it is called a t-shirt. It definitely runs SMALL. I would size up at least one size. Nice 3/4 sleeves. Felt dressy and polished. And on sale. I'm wearing it with the Zip Mini Skirt in Windowpane Jacquard which I will review shortly (size 2).

Sweatshirt with Side Slits (XS)

This also ran small. While I liked that it gave me a nice shape I felt like it looks funny for a sweatshirt to be so tight. I think I would prefer a size small. The side slits seem a little high but I think this would be better in the bigger size. I found this cute little one at JC Penney for only $26. I like the look of it for running to the gym.

 Perfect Shirt in Stewart Plaid (size 2)

I own the original of this but I think this one is slightly more vibrant in the color department. It is such a lovely plaid and I will say that I've worn my old version constantly. When I was in the store, there were 2 other women trying it own and both ended up buying it. It felt that it was a little snug in my usual size 2.

Solid V-neck Cardigan Sweater (XXS) in Midnight

Oh how I wish this were longer. I love the merino knit, the color, the placement of the v-neck, but it's just too short. Granted this is a size smaller than my usual size (only one I could find) but even an XS would be a bit short. I prefer things hitting at least at the hip.

Campbell Blazer in Blue Herringbone (Size 2)

The herringbone fabric is so beautiful. I'm not loving the single gold button or the fit though. I love the idea of a blazer but feel like they always make me look a bit brawny on top. Too much shoulder even though I'm not very broad-shouldered at all. Maybe a petite would be better? Or maybe something more fitted like this. If only it was in my budget...And, I never shop at LLBean but this blazer looks so nice - very fitted and classic.

Have some more reviews coming up... will try to post soon!

Banana Republic Reviews: Sloan-Fit Faux-Leather Trim Ankle Pant and Shirred Gray Knit Dress

I'm telling you, Banana is really doing something right these days. Or maybe my aesthetic has changed, I don't know, but I'm really liking what they're selling. They've been doing this Friends & Family deal where you get 50% of 5 full-priced pieces. I'm such a sale shopper that it's hard for me to even consider this but I find it's a good time to stock up on items that usually don't go on sale there. Last round, I got the Indigo Skinny Ankle Jean and the Medium Wash Skinny Ankle Jean. They are very similar but different enough and I love both of them. Highly recommended. I'm pretty intrigued by the gray and black versions as well.
Anyway, here are a few reviews...

Textured Tunic Tank? (XS)

I'm not actually sure if this is the Textured Tunic Tank but it was the closest I could find. BR has a funny way of letting items disappear off their website. I was drawn to the soft material and the lovely color but the fit is a bit off. Those armholes. Boo. So much bra. If you are ok wearing a camisole, it is a very comfortable little tunic and looks great with the pants I am about to review below for a monochromatic look.

 Sloan-Fit Faux-Leather Trim Ankle Pant in Black Rose (size 0)

I love the Sloans. I have them in navy and a textured style that is sold out now. I vary between a size 0 and 2 in them. These 0's felt a bit snug but they also felt like they would stretch out a lot. I loved the little leather trim and the great color. Unfortunately, the leather trim sort of made the pockets stick out a bit so I would be tempted to just sew them shut if I was going to buy these.

 Shirred Gray Knit Dress (XS)

Eek. Feels like a sweatshirt looks like a dress! There should be a jingle for that. This is literally like wrapping myself in a chenille throw and yet I feel pretty sexy in it. Definitely needs some jewelry and booties but yowza - comfy cuteness personified. My regular XS felt very good. Lots of onlines reviews were complaining about the waist being too big and I didn't really find that to be the case. I sort of know what they're saying but I'm glad it's not tight everywhere. I do like to breathe. And eat.
Also comes in a sassy skirt version.

 Shirred Gray Knit Dress (PXS)

Sometimes the petite sizes are better for me but yikes this is too short. And while we're at it, too tight. Still feels awesome though. Also comes in other colors in this form. Looks basically the same but I think the material content is a bit different. Love the blue and mauve-y shades.
Sort of reminds me of the material on a Velvet dress - I found this one that looks similar but is in a beautiful cobalt color.
And look at this other cute look alike that comes in lovely colors and is under $60.
I've never tried ModCloth but I LOVE this tie-dye like version. The tulip hem is so cute! And $20.99.

What do you think of BR's latest?

Madewell Review: Indigo Plaid Dress and Tartan Mix Scarf

I've been a little off of the Madewell kool-aid lately but the recent 40% drew me in to try a few non-final sale items. Also used to stock up on some of their tees that are soft and have just enough slouch. I sized down for a closer fit but if you want it a little slouchier take your usual size. I highly recommend the slub v-neck in birch leaf and chocolate raisin and the slub crewneck tee in warm berry and stone blue.

Indigo Plaid Dress (size 2)

Ok. So I knew this was probably going to be silly on me but I just had to try it because I love plaid and I loved the idea. Size 2 fit well - sometimes a size 0 works at Madewell but I don't think that would have worked here. It's very cute actually but definitely too young for this mom of 2. Also found it to be a bit high-waisted. But, if you love plaid and are younger than me, go for it! :) This dress has a similar plaid but a looser style (which I like) and this dress by F21 is soo cute and only $22.90! (this one for $19.90 is also super cute)

 Madewell Tartan Mix Scarf 

Ugh, I love scarves. I have so many of them but I do wear them all the time. I do love the mix of plaids in this one although it is a little similar to a Madewell scarf I bought last year. It's soft and lighweight.

I wanted to give a closeup of where the different patterns meet. One of the online reviews mentioned the stitching and I have to agree it could have been better.

Looking forward to getting into Madewell to actually try some of their new stuff on.

I saw the Lace Magnolia Dress in the store and it looked really lovely.

Would also love to try that Gamine Mini Skirt in Buffalo check. Love the combo of cozy and sexy.

And that city grid coat in both the burgundy and the plaid. So chic!

What have you found at Madewell recently?

J. Crew Review: Good Deal: Shiny Downtown Field Puffer Jacket

I saw this on my work colleague the other day and immediately stopped her. She looked absolutely adorable and she mentioned it's quite warm as well. I tried hers on (because she's good like that) and I have to agree. Her coloring is darker than mine and the gray looked awesome on her. I didn't like it on me but I did like the navy.

Shiny Downtown Field Puffer Jacket (XXS) in Navy

So darn, tootin' cute. And it's 50% off! My friend mentioned she paid much more for it before it even went on sale and she doesn't regret it at all. This is the XXS because it was the only size they had left. I'm on the fence about the fit. It fits EXACTLY. I like the way it looks but I only had a shirt underneath. I definitely could not fit a sweater of any thickness. I could size up to an XS (my usual size) but I do love this super slim silhouette.

Anyway, either way check out this cute jacket. It's a downtown field but puffier and warmer, what's not to like?
There's also a vest version that I tried on which is equally as cute but not as fitted through the waist so I passed on it.
This Barbour jacket is similar and on sale. I feel like they are the source of the quilted jacket look. Here's another very similar Barbour one that is also awesome but also seriously not on sale.
This Michael Kors one is pretty darn cute too.

Go get your quilt on.

J. Crew Review: Lace Applique Sweater, Striped Suede-Shoulder T-Shirt, Patio Pant in Violet Poppy and Structured Knit Zip Dress

Final sale has gone away and I'm looking forward to trying some things that I wouldn't normally take a chance on. I've been lucky with final sale overall but have made enough mistakes that I'd rather not waste my hard-earned dough. So, as soon as my store gets new arrivals, I usually try to go in and try on while they still have my size. That way I can plan accordingly when final sale comes back. Here are a few recent try-ons:

Lace Applique Sweater (XS)?)

This is very pretty. The sweater is pretty dense which I like - warm and hopefully won't lose its shape during the day. I like the color of the lace - it stands out without being too much. The fit definitely felt a little cropped and a little boxy but not in an unflattering way.
If I had unlimited funds, I would LOVE to invest in this Tory Burch Lace Appique Sweater. It is so beautiful and I love a good winter cream. I
f you're looking for a bit of sexy drama, check out this Diane Von F version. So good and on sale. This one is equally as adorable. I do love the lace thing... in small amounts.

 Striped Suede-Shoulder T-Shirt (XXS)

I accidentally grabbed this in an XXS and would definitely need the XS. J Crew knows how to do tees pretty well and this one is no exception. The shoulder patches are fine design-wise - I could give or take them - but they are soooo soft! Overall cute.

 Patio Pant in Violet Poppy (size 0)

I know a lot of people are gaga for this print. It's just not doing it for me but I do love the colors. Those big white flowers make me feel like I have chicken pox or something. The fit in my usual size 0 was a bit tight. The fabric doesn't give so maybe that's why? I am not a fan of the patio pant - I feel like it makes me look shorter and heavier.
If I were to try the patio pant, I would probably go for the leopard print. Rowr.
I haven't ordered from TopShop yet, but I love their slimmer version of flower pants.

I have been wanting some more printed trousers but prefer them in a fitted shape. If the Martie's would work for me I would get these in a heartbeat. That print is soooo cute! And these collection pants are absolutely gorgeous. I love the subdued print. Can't tell how the fit is but it looks a little slimmer than the patio. If you like a warmer color palette, these collection pants are also gorge. Wish my local store carried this stuff.

 Structured Knit Zip Dress (size 2)

I had tried this dress on a while ago. I do love it - it is so slimming - I'm just not sure I really need it. I certainly don't work in a fancy work place so it would be a going out dress or concert dress. If you haven't tried it on, I highly recommend it! It's like magic in terms of body shaping.

Sales and more sales. Not sure what I want to actually bite on. How about you?