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?

Loft Review: Lace Tee, Lou & Grey Blouson Dress, Mixup Cardigan and Cloudy Cardigan

More reviews that have been sitting around forever. I had a little love affair with the loft at the end of the summer but I cut if off prematurely :). I sort of feel like I only have the time and energy to shop at a few stores. If I add any more to the list then the whole sale game becomes a full time job. Plus figuring out my sizing, if things stretch out a lot, durability, blah blah blah.

I DO love Lou & Grey. The materials they use are so soft and comfortable. Yummers. I am dying to try their version of the sweaterdress. Looks like something I could live in. Or this Silkwash Shirtdress? Looks so classic and yet laid-back at the same time. I bet their leggings are supersoft and of course their signaturesoft sweater looks way cozy. Zip-pocket joggers have been on my list of things to try and finally, a perfect tee. Now that I've drooled sufficiently over cute casual wear... on to the reviews!

Petite Lace Tee in Whisper White (PXS)

I've been really wanting a lace tee. Great way to dress up a pair of jeans and add a little sex appeal. Overall I liked this tee but didn't love that seam across the top (see pic below). That's hard for a busty gal to pull off. Overall the lace was nice and I really like the hem across the bottom.

Close up of seam and lace. Clearly I would wear a cami. I think if you are smaller busted this will drape better. I've been eyeing this tee at Anthropologie because I like that the whole tee is not lace. Makes it easier to wear. This one from Ann Taylor has a lot of detail and would be more work-appropriate but this one is sexier and comes in navy (my favorite) and is 50% off!

Lou & Grey Blouson Tee Dress (XS)

This dress is so soft - I can't even describe it. I have problems with blouson dresses - I'm never sure how much to "blouson" the top and so it ends up looking a bit awkward. Plus the skirt was a little short for running around town taking care of errands. But so seriously comfortable. And basically flatttering.

 Lou & Grey Blouson Tank Dress (S)

I think this is sold out now but this Lou & Grey dress is very similar and comes in a cute brick red color. I need an XS for sure. Again - the blouson. It just never lays quite right on me. Love the fabric. Stretchy and feels good.

 Lou & Grey Mixup Cardigan (XS)

Eek. A yeti! I love the whole waterfall cardigan idea but in this thick knit it becomes a bit overwhelming on my frame. It is soft and cozy though. Maybe a petite? Maybe just on someone taller. Love the idea. This Lucky Brand sweater has a similar vibe but I like the richness of the colors more.

 Lou & Grey Cloudy Cardigan (XS)

This one was a bit thinner in fabric and so it laid better on my body. Still a bit overwhelming but I wouldn't mind wrapping up in it on a cold winter's day. Loft also carries this Drapey Cardigan which has the same effect but looks way more flattering. Plus it comes in a beautiful burgundy which seems to be the color of the season. This Free People Waterfall Cardigan comes in a lovely light blue and looks light and breezy. And if you want to go luxe, this cashmere cocoon cardigan from Anthropologie looks divine.

Have you shopped Loft lately?

J. Crew Review: Cropped Wide-Leg Trouser in Ikat, Embellished Striped T-Shirt, Placed Stripe T-Shirt

Oops. I've had these pictures forever but am only now getting around to getting them up. I just feel like fall has been whizzing by and I'm always running to catch up with it!

 Cropped Wide-Leg Trouser in Ikat (size 2)

I was drawn to the fabric of these - the colors are beautiful and the cotton fabric feels good on. The fit is tough. Pleats, wide leg, cropped - those are three words that I don't like to hear together :)

Here I am trying to "rock them". I don't know. I think if you are taller and straighter you might have better luck pulling them off? I almost liked them but just couldn't quite make it work. The 10 year old clogs aren't exactly helping things either...

This also comes in an ivory color which looks nice for summer. I think if I'm going to do ikat on the bottom I may have to check out these skinny corduroys or these cute little printed pants from Barneys.

 Embellished-yoke Striped T-Shirt (XS) in ivory navy

Let's face it, J Crew does striped tees pretty well, which is good since they produce a lot of them! I'm not into embellished stuff that much but I was pretty sold on this one. The embellishment is subtle but a nice way to add some interest to another striped shirt. TTS. I love this plain version from J Crew. Looks perfect! And this one on the Outnet is to die for! I know, it's a striped t-shirt but it looks like it would fit perfectly. I'm not familiar with Scotch and Soda but I think this version also looks pretty darn chic.

 Placed-Stripe T-Shirt in Navy Ivory (XS)

Another striped shirt! Quelle surprise! The amount of striped tees in my drawer is sort of embarassing at this point but I woldn't be sad to add this one. The fit was quite nice - slim enough without being clingy. I didn't love the dropped shoulder. Why oh why do they continue to do that? Otherwise cute!
I feel like this tee has a similar vibe but in lighter colors. I think I prefer striped tees with white as the main background color. And of course Boden's short sleeve breton looks like a classic but with .... yes, short sleeves.

Do you have a favorite retailer for a classic breton?

Madewell Review: Silk Geometric Striped Dress, Silk Faux-Wrap Dress and Oversized Boyshirt in Edina Plaid

Madewell's 40% off continues and so do my reviews. Whoops - didn't quite get these up in time but I still hope they're helpful! I'm surprised by the number of fall goodies already on sale and many on promo so you don't have to risk final sale. I definitely don't recommend the game of chance with Madewell since their sizing can be all over the place. I will probably pick up a few more of these t's since the 2 I own have been in constant rotation. Will also probably get a few of the crewneck non-pocket version since they are a little more work appropriate.

Silk Geometric Striped Dress (size 2)

I like this - I thought it was basically a nice look. The deeper v in the back shows some necessary skin since the front is pretty covered up. I have decided that I am REALLY over elastic waists. It's hard to make everything lay well above and below the elastic and they really don't showcase the waist the way they should. The length was good for me at 5'4" - not too short and not frumpy long. Overall a big like for this one. If I were in NEED of a dress like this, I would be really tempted by this Diane von Furstenberg one. So cute! This one ain't that bad either. This one is more floral and less geometric but I love the print and it's on sale for $49 down from $195! And if you're looking for geometric Diane at a discount, why not head over to the RealReal Consignment and try this one. I've never shopped there but I'm intrigued...

Silk Faux-Wrap Dress (size 2)

I had such high hopes for this dress but the faux-wrap/elastic waist combo made for major pooch. I've found this to be the case with many a Madewell elastic waist dress. The amount of material on top is just too much and makes a little pooch pocket. Or above pooch as the case may be. Anyway, deal breaker for me but maybe if you're taller or less busty it would lay better. It also comes in a printed version with cute little dots and a lovely cabernet color. 

Oversized Boyshirt in Edina Plaid (XXS)

Adorable. Definitely runs big (I sized down and there was still PLENTY of room). It feels good on and the plaid is super cute. I'm trying to quit plaid shirts but this one is tempting. I'm curious about their slim boyshirt - that might be a good compromise between slouchy but not overpowering. I'm also a little obsessed with Denim & Supply plaid shirts - the colors are awesome and the prices not cray cray. Check out this perfect red and blue plaid and this great red and black version.

Skinny Fatigue Pants in British Surplus (size 26)

Hmm... I've been looking for a pair of olive colored skinny pants but these are not them. The rise is a little too high for my taste and the rear view is not good. Why why why do retailers but large flap pockets high on the butt? It makes my ass look deranged and much larger than life. Besides the flaps of doom, these were comfortable and fit TTS. I've really been wanting to buy these but the reviews are iffy. Too much stretching out. Also interested in these but don't want to shell out too much money. Also like these but I'm unsure about the zippers. Too young?

Sorry I missed posting this before the sale ended. Did you scoop up anything with the 40% off?

Madewell Reviews: Boyjeans, Lace Shift Dress and Latitude Dress

Ah, Madewell. I have a love/hate relationship with them and recently it has leaned more towards the latter.
I want so badly to be that cool girl with the slouch and the boyfriend shirt and the messy hair but then I realize that is nowhere near my reality :). I do love their look and I think incorporating just a little bit of cool girl slouch can work.

The Slim Boyjean in Hatfield Wash (size 26)

 They have a lot of different washes in this style. Definitely would like to check out the Akiva Wash, and also the Rivet and Thread version in Elmwood Wash. As far as boyjeans go, I think these are pretty good. I am realizing that maybe "boyjeans" are just not meant for the curvier ladies, ie me. These were very comfortable and soft - I think the way they fit in the butt looks more like a traditional jean and that is good for me. No saggy butts please.
I might want to try sizing down as there was still some room in the hips but of course you don't want this style to be too snug or you lose the "boy" effect. These sort of remind me of the Gap Sexy boyfriend which I have never tried but definitely have potential.

 Floral Lace Shift Dress (size 2)

 This was basically cute on but felt a little cheap. I like a little heft to my lace if that makes sense. It has almost a swing shape to it which could work for some. The lace at the bottom helps the length a bit (I'm 5'4") and I love the same effect at the sleeves.
If you're looking for the same idea but for $17.90(!!), just head on over to F21 and check this dress out. I also LOVE the color on this one although it definitely reads spring. This Laundry by Shelli Segal one is almost an exact dupe and I love the navy color. This cream colored one is also super cute. Of course, the J Crew version is lovely and made of a slightly heavier material. I reviewed it previously here.

 Latitude Shirtdress in Alma Plaid (XXS)

 Ugh. I need an XS for sure. Too short, too tight. I love the plaid and I think the lines on this are better than the daywalk shirtdress . Unfortunately, both have pocket problems - I don't know why they can get them to lay flatter or move more to the front. I know it would bother me.
 I love this little popover shirtdress in a very muted fall palette. I'll be honest, I've never shopped at Dillard's, but I love that this shirtdress has a waist and a little flare. Probably better for my body type. If you like Express and a black and white plaid, this would fit the bill. And I'm a little obsessed with this MaxStudio version - love the waist tie and the contrasting cuff color. Finally this shirtdress comes in a bunch of different plaids but I especially love this dark red version. So flattering!

The 40% was too tempting this morning. I ordered the Tartan Mix Scarf in red (yeah because I need another scarf so badly....) and the Indigo Plaid Dress which is now sold out. Might have to try this dress and/or this shirt too.

What do you have your eye on during Madewell's sale?