Notes from the Dressing Room-Lady Chic at Ann Taylor

While I was working my way through the Christmas list (last-minute), I headed out to a few stores last week. Ann Taylor was in the neighborhood and as I was perusing the store, I couldn't help but think that I might have to set aside funds for some future purchases (they are trying to steal what I would set aside for J. Crew).

They are currently still offering 50% off, so definitely check them out. Here are a few dressing room pics of a few things that caught my eye:

Fireside Blouse, $98, available here

Tweed Mini Skirt, $98, available here

I love a vibrant color and this red-orange beauty is a great option. It is nicely fitted, the buttons lay flat with hardly any kind of button gaping that is usually an issue and it would be perfect paired alone or under a blazer. I didn't even realize it until I read the product description, but it has a subtle animal print. That makes it even better in my book. If I'm not mistaken the size I'm wearing is petite which fit pretty well and didn't have as much length at the bottom which works for me since I am short-waisted. Considering that this is polyester, I don't think it is worth the full price, but at 1/2 price, it goes up several notches to the possible buy category. Fit is tts.

Tweed! Glorious tweed!! I just gravitate towards certain fabrics and tweed is one of them. This skirt has a simple straight shape, contrasting color detail and best of all, the tweed has a bit of color weaved through it. I like the black lines (fyi, it does not continue through the back), but I know that might not work for others. It fit comfortably in my regular size, my only complaint is that the tweed does not feel that thick, however, it is lined so that's a plus. Overall, I think it is a nice buy.

3/4 Sleeve Sheath Dress, $128, available here in black (limited sizes)

Sheath dresses can be hit or miss when it comes to looking flattering on the body, but I have to say, this dress is a winner for me. Granted, it is very simple, but the color is fabulous and the fit of this dress was perfect. It hugged the body just so; the fabric wasn't clingy, it just skimmed appropriately. You can add a nice statement necklace, a scarf or a belt to take it up a notch. Or even better, pair it with a colorful shoe like this one. It has a zipper detailing on the sleeve and it has a hidden zipper in the back. Fit is tts and the length is just right. I whole-heartily give this baby a thumbs up and judging from the stock left online, it is going fast.

Multicolored Stripe Button 3/4 Sleeve Button Tunic, $78, available here

Are you all striped out?? Even if you are, this sweater has a little something different going on with the varying stripe sizes and extra colors. This sweater has several pluses going for it: the fabric is soft, it is well-fitting and it has the cutest button detail on the bottom of the sleeve. But, it is a thin knit and there is a possibility of fuzziness in its future. I'm not crazy about all of those horizontal lines on my body, but I'm sure it would look great on some of you skinny-minnies with cute tiny waists. :p  Good buy at 50% off!!

Felted Wool A-Line Mini Skirt $98, available here

I have a pair of pants that I like to call my "sweat" dress pants. They look like a regular pair of trousers but are made of jersey, so it almost feels like I'm wearing a pair of sweatpants. I absolutely love them and this skirt is pretty much the same thing, in a very work appropriate skirt form. The brownish-tan color is subtle enough to work with lots of other colors, I've already mentioned how comfortable it is and the wool is not itchy what-so-ever. Seriously, it could be stretch jersey. Fit is tts and I think it is a good buy.

Have you taken advantage of Ann Taylor's generous discount? Have you picked up any goodies at the mall lately?