Notes from the Dressing Room- Blooming at LOFT

During a recent lunchtime stroll, I decided to give LOFT a look see. I'll admit that LOFT isn't one of my usual shopping hangouts, but I know they have great sales (judging by the 40% off email I received) and can have some really nice items (my otk boots are one of my faves and the jewelry section always has interesting pieces). My strategy was to look for color and pattern, which was surprisingly difficult. They definitely took the nude trend and ran with it for spring. You'll also notice a theme with what I did find on the racks.

Watercolor Floral Shift (not online yet, Style#256985), $79.50, similar dress here

This dress is like a flower explosion, but done in such a pretty way. I thought this was a cute dress and it fit well (no shapeless sack here). As you'll see in the second picture, it doesn't zip all the way up because there is a keyhole tie at the very top. When I look at the pictures now, I think it would be a total winner if the neckline was a bit lower or the straps were more tank like, but overall, this was a thumbs up. My regular size wasn't available so I sized down in this. It was a slightly snug fit, but not uncomfortably so. I would say it is true to size.

 

Pintuck Dot Trim Dress in Pink Cloud, $69.50, available here

I thought this would be a pretty feminine dress to try and it certainly is. But this dress was just meh and nothing spectacular. I tried this on in my regular size and had some major peek-a-boo action going on with some of the buttons. If I were interested in this dress, I think it would look a lot better with a different belt.

 

Hidden Placket Button-Front Shirt in Raspberry, $44.50, available here in multiple colors

Watercolor Floral Print Pencil Skirt in Milk White, $98.00, limited sizes available here but check stores

I love the vibrancy of this top (although it does come in more subdued colors; the navy is lovely too)! But be prepared to find a pretty sheer and blousey looking top. Judging from how it looked when I pulled the fabric back, this could be one of those times when sizing down would be a bit more flattering.

Does this skirts pattern look familiar?? LOFT was really loving the flowers this season and if that dress is just too much for you, this skirt would make a great sub. It was comfortable and well-fitted. I definitely love the print and the length was just perfect. Be aware that this is a linen blend so wrinkle city will be the destination.

Foil Knit Sweater (not online, Style #254852), $49.50

Pansy Bloom Shorts (not online, Style# 255917), $44.50, similar available here

And it's the return of the flower print!! You know I love the other two flowered items and these shorts are no exception. So vibrant and perfect for a relaxing weekend paired with a tee, espadrilles and a cute straw fedora. The length didn't feel indecent, the shape was flattering and fit was true to size.

This sweater gets a thumbs up and it's because of some wonderful gold shimmer throughout. The main color is rather neutral, but the gold thread gave it just enough interest to make it more fun. I sized down in this sweater and it fit just fine.

As you can see, flowers were pretty much the only pattern I found through out the store (other than stripes) and there weren't a ton of fun colors. Despite that, there are some gems to be found in the store and I will certainly be back. Are you an Ann Taylor or LOFT fan?

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