review
Stitch Fix Plus: Round 10
October 15, 2018 • brands, review
Fix #9 came in the mail shortly before my Key West trip and it completely underwhelmed me. While I did do a live unboxing on Instagram, the entire fix was quickly returned before I could even blog about it. The box was so far from what I'd requested (conservative work pieces and brown booties) that I even requested a different stylist for my next fix, which just arrived. Let's see how she did:
PAPERMOON |Corralyn Lace Hem Detail Knit Top | $38
This was super soft but there just wasn't anything special about it, and I didn't love the fit around the arms. Returned.
41 HAWTHORN | Daylen Cotton Poplin Dress | $78
I wanted this dress all. summer. long. It was a bummer to get it in an October fix when I won't be able to wear it until at least April. I hated the thought of paying $80 for this to sit in my closet until spring, so I begrudgingly sent it back.
LAILA JAYDE | Dorsi Front Drape Knit Top | $54
In pictures, I thought this was the same top I was sent in my last fix, but I was pleasantly surprised. This is super soft and has a front panel that acts as a cami so you don't have to wear a separate one. Kept.
41 HAWTHORN | Corinth Wool Elbow Patch Blazer | $78
This was super comfortable, but a tad snug in the chest and I thought the elbow patches made it look a tad too casual for my style. Returned.
KUT FROM THE KLOTH | Doris Printed Bootcut Pant | $88
These were a pleasant surprise. The print was subtle, the fabric was stretchy, durable, and amazing....but $88 for a pair of pants isn't going to happen. Returned.
Thoughts
Were it not for price, I would have kept 3 of the items. That's kind of a bummer. Weather is getting colder so I need pants, and I need them to be affordable. Hopefully I see more affordable options in my next fix. Stay tuned!
What piece is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
Baltimore, MD, USA
I Tried Dia & Co. Here's How it Went.
October 1, 2018 • brands, review
I have a tried and (not so) true system for dressing when I know colder seasons are on their way: keep dressing like it's summer. If I don't wear a coat, mother nature will pity me and keep things warm outside. Right?
Once that doesn't work, I move from denial into begrudging acceptance where I finally realize some cold weather clothes are in order. This year, our humid, excessively rainy summer very abruptly gave ways to fall-like temps forcing me to realize it's time to put some cooler weather pieces in my rotation stat.
I've seen plenty of Facebook ads for Dia & Co. but hadn't bit until recently when I saw an ad for first box free (like Stitch Fix, there's a $20 styling fee that is applied to whatever you keep). As a bonus, ebates had a $10 rebate special, so I was literally paid $10 to try this box!
If you haven't heard of Dia & Co., it's a style subscription for curvier women. You complete a style quiz, pay the styling fee, and 5 pieces of clothing/accessories are sent to you in the mail. Keep what you like, send back what you don't. As you receive shipments and fill out feedback, your assigned stylist should be getting a good idea for your style and sending better options each time!
Initial Thoughts
the box arrived impressively fast. I took their style quiz on a Monday and the box appeared at my desk the same Friday. The quiz was not as thorough as Stitch Fix and didn't have any photo guidance which can be frustrating. I've also tried Nadine west who also had a vague quiz, but at least had a few photos to gauge style.
I've been able to "cheat" with the other two subscriptions and see what is being sent my way before it arrives, but no such luck with Dia. The website is overall less intuitive, without even an obvious place to check out when you receive your shipment. They email you frequently with helpful information, but I'd rather have a user friendly website to figure things out myself.
One last petty thought before moving on to the haul: I opened the box and was greeted by a sea of purple. The inside of the box flaps, the invoice and styling note, the sticker on the (thin, easily ripped) tissue paper. All purple. If you know me, that's just...no. Stitch Fix's lovely green will win me over every time.
Here's what they sent:
Leota | Avana Dress, $62
I took one look at this dress and immediately thought of my colleague who has a similar one. This is cute and easy to wear, but it's not me. More importantly, it's made of a similar fabric as the LulaRoe Cassie skirts. Fine for a skirt, but way too scratchy for a dress. I expect better quality for a $62 dress.
New York Laundry | Emma Sleeveless Tank with cut-out scoop neck, $33
This tank is super soft but that's about all it has going for me. The very subtle pastel in the stripes can't be picked up in the photo, but it gave it a dated vibe I wasn't loving. Also not shown in the picture is all the cleavage this showed off. Lastly, I'm trying to dress for fall and can't even write this off as a transition piece. It screams summer.
Meri Skye | Quinn Long Sleeve Whip Stitch Cardigan Sweater, $61
This thing was huge. You can tell by the photos just how baggy it is in the arms. It wouldn't have been an office piece by any means, but I definitely considered keeping it for curling up on the couch or outside by a bonfire. It was certainly cozy, but I just didn't love it enough to fork over $61 for it.
Rafaella | Broome Skinny Jean, $53
I was so, so excited for these. Pants are hands down the hardest article of clothing to find. They never fit right. I can find jeans with some ease, but any non denim pants are next to impossible. These are technically jeans so I was sure they'd fit, and the olive color which I love would have been easy to wear to the office. Unfortunately, the fit was a fail, being too skinny in the waist and calf but having that ever so sexy sag in the rear/thigh region. A shame because I'd have kept these in a heartbeat.
Ceram Lake Pendant Necklace, $28
I liked the two tone hammered look of this, but this feels like the gazzilionth time a subscription box has sent me a circular accessory and I'm just not into it. Meh.
The Verdict?
I kept nothing which is fine, because 1. I didn't lose $20 (I'd have probably bought the sweater to avoid this if I had paid the styling fee) and 2. I honestly felt like these was a decent shot in the dark styling-wise. I don't feel like I gave the stylist that much information, and 2 of the items I would have kept given the right sizing/pricing.
Another petty thought: why does everything have such redundant names? "pendant necklace?" "sleeveless tank top?" I'm surprised they didn't call the first item a "dressy dress."
Of course, styling boxes are supposed to get better with time and feedback, so I've completed the checkout process (after googling how to check out because you literally can't find it on the website), and I will be trying a second box in about a month to see how they do. Stay tuned!
Did you like what I got? Let me know in the comments or sign up for your first Dia & Co. Subscription here
(but first, ebates for an even sweeter deal)!
(but first, ebates for an even sweeter deal)!
Baltimore, MD, USA
I Ordered Stitch Fix...For My Husband
July 2, 2018 • brands, review
Sean has a birthday this week, and since he's shown a lot more interest in fashion lately, I decided to shake things up and surprise him with a Stitch Fix box - for men!
Similarly to the original SF box, you complete a style profile, pay a $20 styling fee, and wait for your first fix to arrive (fun fact: they are so confident you will love it, your styling fee is refunded should you not keep anything your first fix!). I filled out all of Sean's sizes, likes, dislikes, and even made some requests based on his birthday wish list.
It arrived early so I gifted it to him early given the return window, but we had fun unboxing it all.
Also, as the other man of the house, McHenry decided to participate. I think he decided to keep the box.
Also, as the other man of the house, McHenry decided to participate. I think he decided to keep the box.
One observation: as a tall guy, the things that fit Sean best are measured sizes (shirts, blazers, etc.) vs the simpler S-XL system. I did notice that they tried to take his measurements into account, but many items sent were basic vs. numerical sizes.
Here's a look at his first fix:
JACHS Nico Seersucker Blazer, $118
This was a casual style blazer at a reasonable price point, but the fit just wasn't there. It was too tight in both the chest and shoulders and was returned. Sean didn't have strong feelings towards this one way or another.
01Algo Foss Contemporay Cut Edge Leather Belt, $38
Sean liked this as a good quality casual belt. He kept this (technically, he exchanged it for one size up - you can do that!).
A Frame Contemporary 5 Pocket Slim Fit Pant, $59
These pants felt kind of cheap and the fit was way off - it arrived a size higher than what I specified for Sean, and while I assumed the pants must run small, this wasn't quite the case. The waist and hips were very loose while the calves were too tight. These were returned.
Rye Toby Summerweight Slub Poplin Shirt, $48
Ironically, this was Sean's least favorite item when he first opened the box, but after trying it on and seeing the photos, he agreed it was fun and different and kept it (and I love the feel of the fabric on this one!).
Artistry In Motion, Greer Garment Dyed Oxford Shirt, $44
There's always room for a classic blue dress shirt...except for one that doesn't fit. The arm length was perfect on this, but the overall fit was boxy, so back it went.
Overall, the main issue this fix was with overall fit. Sean did feel the clothes matched his style and he'd be excited to try another after giving feedback. We signed him up for every other month, so keep an eye for what he gets next later this summer!
Curious to try Stitch Fix for yourself or your man? Get started here - it truly is risk free with the returned fee guarantee!
What did you think of Sean's fix? Let us know in the comments!
Baltimore, MD, USA
Stitch Fix Plus: Round 4
June 18, 2018 • brands, review
I recently got my fourth shipment from Stitch Fix, and it looks like the fourth time is the charm! I've been diligently sharing feedback each round and also evaluating how I ask my stylist for things, and based on this shipment, I'd say it paid off!
Quick refresher: Stitch Fix is a super easy styling services that delivers new fashions to you each month (or sooner, if you're so inclined). Simply take a style quiz, share your preferences for fit, price range, and perhaps a social media link or two, and you're on your way to a stylist choosing 5 items specifically for you! A $20 styling fee is applied to each shipment and is deducted from any items you keep. You can leave thorough feedback on everything you receive to ensure your fixes keep getting better!
Here's what I received this month:
Skies are Blue Silvia Lace Detail Cardigan, $48
My first fix included a lightweight navy cardigan, so I don't need another per se, but this is so pretty! I love the lace detail and roll tab sleeves. I don't have anything like this, so it was an easy decision to keep it.
Colette Celestia Brushed Knit Maxi Skirt, $48
The fabric is soft, like LulaRoe leggings soft. Similar to my Nadine West complaint, this skirt has the old school scrunchy waistband and not the nice wide waistbands you see on most maxi skirts. The fit is a little slimmer than I like my maxis and in general I'm picky about florals. I didn't love this one, but with the keep all discount, it was cheaper to keep all 5 items including this than to keep the 4 I liked and send this back. (Update: I was able to sell this on a SF Facebook group)
Market & Spruce Nolen Woven Placket Henley, $54
I wasn't feeling this in the picture, but loved it when I pulled it out of the box. The grey cotton fabric is super soft, and the woven print fabric up top is really fun. The price is higher than I prefer for this type of shirt and I wouldn't have kept it had I only kept one or two items, but I went for it this time since I liked so many items.
Bancroft Cazzette Framed Filigree Earrings, $28
I was thrilled to see these in my Fix! I adore quatrefoil anything and actually have a pair similar to this that is a tad bigger than I prefer. These are gorgeous and the perfect size. Of course I kept them!
Papermoon Lucy Sheer Yoke Knit Tank, $44
This is so pretty and super soft.The sheer top portion has a pretty keyhole detail in the back and while this is super comfortable, it's also perfect for the office. I loved it so much that I wore it to work the very next day before I even took the blog photos! You can safely assume I kept this.
Overall
Items loved: 4/5
Items kept: 5/5
So here's the deal: Stitch Fix offers a 25% discount if you keep your entire fix. I did the math and it actually cost me less to keep the maxi skirt than it would have to send it back since I loved the other 4 items. Another SF user let me know that there's plenty of Facebook buy/sell/trade groups just for SF items, so I'll try my luck at finding the maxi skirt a home that will appreciate it.
The 4th time really is the charm! I could tell that the stylist chose items based on ones I'd liked before, particularly the two shirts and the cardigan. Navy is always a winning color for me, and while the grey top wouldn't have caught my eye online or even in stores, I tried it and loved it which really is what Stitch Fix is all about.
What did you think of this month's fix? Let me know in the comments!
What are you waiting for? Complete your style profile and get your first fix!
Baltimore, MD, USA
I Tried Nadine West: Review
June 4, 2018 • brands, review
Ever since I started trying Stitch Fix, I've heard one particular piece of feedback over and over:
"It's too expensive"
I get it. Price was one of two reasons I didn't try it sooner. (Note, "as cheap as possible" is now a cost option when signing up for Stitch Fix, so they do have more affordable options these days.)
Once I signed up, my Facebook feed filled with ads for other style subscription services. One in particular had me raising an eyebrow: Nadine West. With their bright pink bubble mailers, they claim that "Only $7 to $35 items means this is a monthly outfit subscription you can ACTUALLY afford."
OK. So they're cheaper than Stitch Fix. But are they any good? Are they too cheap? Curiosity got the best of me and I finally signed up. Here's what I found:
Sign up
You take a much shorter style quiz, choosing from style and color preferences and providing your sizes. You can also check if you do or don't want tops, bottoms, dresses, or scarves. All subscriptions include jewelry. There aren't more in depth questions such as how things typically fit you in different areas (i.e., are pants typically tight in one area and baggy in another?).
Cost
The $9.78 shipping fee is charged for each delivery, and like SF's styling fee, can be applied towards the purchase of any clothes you keep. A prepaid label is included to send back anything you choose not to keep. The package includes an invoice with each item's name and price. (My shipment contained 5 items which would have cost $99 for all).
Delivery
This was a point of frustration for me. I have all packages shipped to my office because there's a huge package theft issue in my city. It wouldn't accept the address and I almost didn't sign up. Finally, I did a search for the official postal address, and it took.
My shipment was sent via DHL-USPS. It took longer than I expected, and the tracking didn't stay up to date, but I will attribute part of this to Memorial Day weekend and see what happens next time.
The bubble mailer was packed to the gills. There was nowhere I felt I could cut it open for fear of cutting the contents, so I spent several minutes slowly peeling away to get it open. Also, anything you ship back should go in the same mailer, so you don't want to damage it.
Contents
My shipment came with 3 jewelry items (all labeled as lead and nickel "compliant") and 2 clothing items, ranging in price from $12.19-$29.99:
Tennis Classic Bracelet, $12.19
This was a simple goldtone tennis-style bracelet with clear stones. I've gotten similar bracelets as free prizes at MLM parties and this just isn't something I'd buy myself. I sent it back.
Lotus Chimes Earrings, $14.99
These were most my style of anything in the shipment. I loved the simplicity and pretty mandala etching. These are versatile enough to wear with plenty of outfits. I kept these.
Pearl Catcher Necklace, $24.99
This isn't my style, and it felt super cheap. I have plenty of $5 Paparazzi jewelry that feels sturdier than this. I would laugh if I saw this in a store for $25, and I was really surprised at the price tag from a service that totes low prices. In my opinion, this pricing is in line with Stitch Fix accessories (which are much sturdier), but not for Nadine West. I sent it back.
At Midnight Bottom, $16.99
These are capri-length leggings with a black and bluehoundstooth print. While I'd be open to capri-leggings for lounging/workout purposes, I wasn't a fan of these for a few reasons: 1. The ugly print, 2. the very low rise, and 3. the icky old school waistband - we all know yoga waistbands are where it's at! That being said, I thought this was a fair price point, but I sent these back.
May Flowers Dress, $29.99
This was labeled a dress, but it's really a tunic; it barely covered my bum! I knew right away I wouldn't be keeping it for one particular reason: it's a cold shoulder top, which is a style I loathe. I also wasn't a fan of the colors, or the long/bell sleeves as it's summer. It was a super soft, comfortable fabric, though. This was sent back.
The Verdict
The higher priced items of Nadine West's offerings line up with the rates of Stitch Fix's lower priced items. The big difference in my opinion is the approach to styling and quality. If I was younger and trendier, I might appreciate NW more, but what I realized right away was that SF's more thorough questionnaire (including links to your social media so they can "get" you leads to a better styling experience avoiding rookie mistakes like choosing colors and styles I'd never wear.
For younger people looking for some fun, affordable new pieces, NW can definitely be a solid option, but for me, a 30-something professional looking to spruce up my work wardrobe, this first shipment wasn't the right fit. I felt like an adult trying on clothes in the junior's department.
Just like SF, NW does allow feedback (though again, not as thorough) on all pieces in the shipment, so I have shared my thoughts and will have one more shipment come to see if the styling service does evolve.
If NW does look up your alley, feel free to use referral code KP6Y-Z8WE-U59V when you sign up. I hear there's a little incentive in there for you.
Did you like anything in my shipment? Having seen mine, is Nadine West a service you would try? Let me know in the comments!
Baltimore, MD, USA
Stitch Fix Plus: Round 3
May 14, 2018 • brands, review
I decided to make some more specific requests for my third fix to spruce things up for the summer season. I asked my stylist for some cropped work pants and a white skirt and awaited what else might appear in box #3.
A quick recap for anyone not familiar with Stitch Fix: Take a quick style quiz, provide your sizes and preferences, and pay a $20 deposit. A stylist chooses and sends 5 items to you each fix and the $20 goes towards whatever you keep. The fixes should feel more personalized the longer you continue using SF and providing feedback.
Here's how this month looked:
Stella Valle Montoya Triangle Bracelet, $48
This was simple and cute. It would have been a great basic accessory but the price is way higher than I spend on costume jewelry, and the bangle didn't even fit on my wrist. Returned.
Kut from the Kloth Sienna Cropped Pant, $58
 |
| That saggy butt? No thanks. |
This was right up my alley with the olive green color and light stretchy fabric, but the fit was awful. Tight in the waist and calves but saggy and loose in the butt and thighs. Returned.
Pixley Jordie Sheer Inset Silk Blouse, $68
The top is sheer and has to be layered. I love the triangle detail on the front and keyhole on the back. I would have returned this because of the high price tag, but this was the only item I liked in the fix, and I didn't want my $20 to go to waste. Kept.
Truly Poppy Luanna Cotton Blend Textured Knit Dress, $78
This looked frumpy at first sight and while it fit well, 1. it wasn't my style and 2. any neckline that requires a strapless bra from me is a no go. Returned.
Renee C Leena Printed Skirt, $48
Maybe I should have been more specific. I was hoping for a solid white skirt. The fit was fine and it was comfortable, but I didn't adore the print and I have plenty of similar LulaRoe Cassie skirts that only cost $35. Returned.
I'm disappointed to say this particular fix was a bust. I'm seeing a trend of my stylist meeting specific requests with items that don't quite fit the bill, so I think I will go back to more generic requests for the next fix to see if it improves. Also, the prices were way higher this time around than previous fixes with the lowest items being nearly $50. I hope this isn't a trend.
Baltimore, MD, USA
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