Anthropologie Review: Sugar Pine Sweater Coat, Montmartre Peasant Top, Perched Vegan Leather Mini and Colorblock Utility Skirt

When Anthropologie was having their 25% off everything sale the one thing I really want to try on was the Sugar Pine Sweater Coat. It looked so luxurious and unique! Also, a good chance to stock up on my favorite candles. I got both the full size and travel size and wish I had gotten some more. They smell soo good!

Sugar Pine Sweater Coat (XS)

Oh, it's so pretty! The colors are glorious and it is SOOO soft. I love that the back almost appears to have a waistband and I love that it is lined. It is truly like wearing your favorite blanket The only bummer is that it runs really big. I know it's a sweater coat but I felt like I was drowning in it. I think the petite would help but I would also want to size down. Of course those are already sold out but I bet a lot will pop back after the holidays.

Montmartre Peasant Top (size 2)

This is also a lovely little top. I felt like it ran a little big so I ordered the size 0 but that was definitely too snug. It is a bit of a swing shape so you don't want it to grab anywhere. I am obsessed with lace anything and this definitely scratches an itch. I may prefer the black version. I noticed another lace top at Anthro that I would also like to check out. And, if I was cooler and younger, I would check this one out by Free People.

Colorblock Utility Mini Skirt (size 2)

I liked the 70's vibe on this and the fact that it was a mini but not overly so. The fit was fine, the material was sturdy, I just couldn't imagine where I would wear it.

Perched Vegan Leather Mini Skirt (size 4)

I think this was on one of their "last one" racks. It's very cute. I think it was a size 4 but I can't remember. It was a bit big whatever size it was. I wouldn't really call it a mini as it was basically knee length on me but the length was perfect. The little birds perching in the tree are adorable and the cranberry color is so delicious. I think the pattern was on the front and back - I just have a thing about clothing that is only printed on one side. The vegan leather felt decent. I would definitely consider this on sale but still couldn't entire imagine what I would wear on top except a plain sweater.
I really like this other vegan leather mini they are selling now and would probably get more use out of it. I also ordered this Diamond Dot Vegan Leather Skirt in a petite so we'll see how that goes. I like that it's a nice neutral color and of course I'm a little obsessed with perforated items (hello J Crew Perforated Drapey Dress that I want to order in another color).

Anthropologie Review: Galena Midi Dress, Jantina Maxi Dress, Cara Cowl Dress and Marigot Pleated Skirt

Yay! I love it when Anthropologie has a percentage off sale. Of course, this usually means that the sale price is still higher than another cut would be... but it's a nice excuse to look around. I had to take a break from Anthropologie because I was finding that their pieces were attractive to me in the store but as soon as I got home I couldn't find a way to incorporate them into my wardrobe. I'm ready to try again though because winter is my favorite season at Anthro. Cozy sweaters, sleek sweater skirts, fun party wear.... Here are a few of my recent try-on's.

Galena Midi Dress in Wine (XS)

I'm surprised this is on sale for $49.95. It's quite cute and the wine color is very on trend. The material is a bit on the thin side but still didn't show every lump and bump. The overall shape is very flattering. My usual XS felt a bit tight in the bust area but I am still nursing so I think this would fit better when I'm back to normal. The ruched waist is perfect for creating an hourglass silhouette and hiding a few post-baby lumps.

Jantina Maxi Dress (XS)

Here's another lovely, thin jersey dress that is a bit snug up top. I love the overall shape of it and that it has regular straps that cover my bra. I wish the colors were a bit more vibrant - I think the overall pattern is a bit blah - but I'm glad it's on the more subtle side.

It is lined to the knee which is another bonus. And pockets! That don't add weight! Super cute and comfy. I would have to get it hemmed but I can see this being a no-brainer in the summer.

Jantina Maxi Dress (S)

The small fit better in the bust but the overall effect wasn't quite as sleek as the XS and the straps were a bit too long. I think I'm a bit in between sizes on this one.

Cara Cowl Dress by Maeve (S)

I would need the XS in this. I like the idea of it - I would probably wear it over skinny jeans instead of as a dress. There is a lot of bra showing on the side so I'd need to wear a black one. It felt sort of cool and easy though.

 Marigot Pleated Skirt (size 2)

OOF, this was tight in my waist. Then again, my waist isn't what it used to be since I had kid #2. The good news about the tight waist is that it makes for a nice contrast to the volume of the skirt. It is a well-made, fun party skirt and the pleats lay well - I just didn't like the colors - particularly that citron one.

 Galena Midi Dress in Wine (S)

The size small fit better maybe? Definitely more chest coverage but since that's the one area I know will change on my body it didn't concern me as much. I did order a petite online so we'll see how that fits. These midi lengths are very trendy right now but they do not always suit my 5'4" frame.

What did you buy during the recent sale promotion?

J. Crew Review: Some sale and Lace Panel Dress

I did a quickie run-in to J Crew on Black Friday and I was shocked, not in a good way. There was no signage about the "special 40% off" items and no treats or even particularly festive music. And most of the SA's were wandering around like deer in headlights. And it was pretty empty. Anyway, I wasn't looking for anything anyway but I was hoping for an air of excitement (which at least Anthropologie had down the way...)

Favorite Shirt (size 2)

I need a new white shirt and this one was excellent except it was so transparent. I really liked the length, the fit, the covered button placket, everything. Felt only slightly roomy in my usual size 2. I also ordered this classic white shirt which is slightly less transparent and also fits well. Not sure how I feel about 3/4 sleeves, but I might have to check this one out as well. Haven't tried this one at the GAP yet, but it's a steal at around $24.

Flare Dress in Watercolor Floral Print (size 2)

I've tried this on before. It's quite lovely and gives a really flattering silhouette. It is a little snug in my usual 2 but then again so are most things these days. Once winter hits, my body seems to want to pack on a little extra love around my middle... I did buy the shorts and I think they're adorable!

Perforated Drapey Side-Slit Dress (size 2)

I own the previous version of this in a size 0. This 2 felt really big. It looks fine in the picture but it just felt awkward. The previous version had complaints of a high waist but this one seems too low. Anyway, I do really like this dress and the color is bright and fun.

Lace Panel Dress (size 0)

This is the only new arrival I tried on and I think it will be quite popular. The placement of the lace is flattering and the overall shape feels classic and classy! The size 0 was way too tight - I would take my usual size 2 for this one (I typically size down in shift dresses etc but take a 2 in dresses like this).
This lace detail dress has a totally different vibe but I like it. This one at off 5th is white but also slightly less fitted which I like. Or if you like maxi length, this one is very similar but full length - fun!

Classic V-Neck Cardigan Sweater (XXS, XS)

I feel like I'm always on the hunt for cozy but nut not bulky cardigans and this one fit the bill. If you want a more streamlined look and don't mind extra fitted arms, size down. If you like things to just graze your body do your normal size. I like it both ways so I actually got this one in the XS for a little more slouch and another one for a more sleek silhouette. The sweater is super soft and cozy and I'm hoping it won't pill like crazy but of course it probably will ;) Joe Fresh makes this cute one in the same color for only $20. Madewell has been my go to for sweaters lately and I like the drapey look of this sweater and the classic look of this cardigan.

Did you do any shopping over Black Friday?

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?