Notes from the Dressing Room- An Assortment at J.Crew

I had some mall time this past weekend, so you know where I ended up. J.Crew, of course!! The store was filled with many new goodies in lots of fun colors, but it was ridiculously crowded so I only had time for a speedy try-on session. Check out a small selection of what's on the rack these days:

Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater, $248.00, available here

Anchors Aweigh Pant, $158.00, available here

I have to confess that I just grabbed a basic color top to try on with these pants and this top was it. It was so unbelievable cozy and soft which would be great if it was the dead of winter, but as a spring/summer piece, it is not appropriate (I would melt into a puddle of sweat if I dared to wear it outside). In addition to being soft, the v-neck was a good amount of skin showing without being too much. It has a bit of a boxy, oversized shape, but it is the perfect piece to just throw on and go. If I was in the market for a cashmere sweater, I would definitely keep my eye on this number, but that's many months away that I would even want to think about a sweater. I tried this on a size smaller than I normally do and I honestly think I could have went another size down, my only concern might be whether the sleeves would be tighter.

Okay, I posted my pajama pants from Madewell recently (see post here) and these are pretty much the same pants, so I love them. It has a loose, silky feel with the cutest anchor print, a tie waistband and pockets. It would be like putting on a pair of lounge pants, but a bit more "dressed up" in a way. I sized down and it felt good. It skimmed without being baggy or unflattering. My other jammie pants are so similar which is why I haven't pulled the trigger on these, but I'm seriously putting them on my sale watch list.

Tee not available online (Style #83104) in Neon Pink, $39.50, similar style here

Cafe Capri in Safari Cat, $118.00, available here

Oh, I wished this top was online because it was my favorite. It has a low scoop neckline, elbow-length sleeves and a nice pop of color. It also came in another colorway with a mint green background with a neon melon stripe. I'm not all striped out with my wardrobe yet and although I don't need anymore tees, I will definitely be thinking about getting this one. Fit is tts.

J.Crew sneaked these pants onto the website last week and I just had to check them out. Leopard is the new black and I need as much of it in my closet. :) These cafe capris are similar to all the other ones, but they are made of thick linen. I normally shy away from the wrinkle monster fabric that is linen, but these feel substantial and like they would hold their shape well. Plus, the print would definitely help to hide major wrinkles. I sized down from my normal pant size in these, which I normally do with the cafe capris and they felt good; not too loose or tight. I know prints (especially on the bottom) aren't for everyone, but I thought these were well made. Thumbs up and on my watch list.

Collection Pleated Blouson Dress in Wild Peony, $350.00, available here

Oh, pretty pink dress, how I had such high hopes for you. Soft pleating and a pretty color, I was sure this would be a winner, but there were too many minuses going on with it. The top part is a bit boxy, so you might run the risk of looking like a line backer like I do. I tried this on in a size up because my regular size wasn't on the rack and the waist was tight. Sizing might be tricky depending on your body shape, so my thought is to size up. It falls right below the knee and has pleating in both the front and back. It is a lovely dress, but for the price and its fit, I don't think it is worth buying. I know this would be a great dress for someone out there, just not me. Too bad because the color is gorgeous!

That's all the reviews for now. Have you checked out the newest arrivals at J.Crew? Is there something you have your eye on?

OOTD- The Right to Bear Legs

So the weather guy claimed that it would reach the 70's yesterday and I went a little crazy at the thought of any spring-like weather and banished tights from my outfit.

Is anyone else at that point where they just want Spring to arrive? I'm sure that doesn't mean much to people who might live in warmer countries or just down south or on the west coast in the U.S., but a change of seasons would be very much welcomed about now. Which is why I was probably a bit premature in breaking out these new shoes (and naked legs), but I just couldn't help it. Bright colors and sunshine just work so well together.

Whether it is warm or cold in your neighborhood, have a fabulous weekend!!

Outfit Details:

Ocean blue blazer- J. Crew (blazer in a pretty blue shade here and here)

Purple print dress- Tucker for Target (pretty purple Tucker dress on sale here, similar style here)

Patent leopard belt- J. Crew outlet

Tan bag- Rebecca Minkoff MAM (same bag in a similar color here, mini bag in similar color here on sale)

Colorful flats- Isabel Toledo for Payless (available here in limited sizes, sandal version with same pattern here, similar style in a solid color here)

OOTD- Sparkle and Shimmer

I pulled out one of my favorite sweaters today to help get me through the middle of the week. A little shimmer and shine has the power to make the day just a little bit better.

Oh, and party shoes make it ten times better too!!

Do you have something that instantly makes your day feel more special?

Outfit Details:

Sequin sweater and "Minnie" pants- J. Crew (sweater in a similar vibe here and here) (pants in a similar color and other fun colors too here)

Blue blazer- Lilly Pulitzer

Fuchsia velvet pumps- Marc Jacobs (similar here on sale and in limited sizes and here)

OOTD- Notes from the Dressing Room, Cheering for the New at J. Crew

New arrivals popped up on J. Crew's website and that meant I had to pop over to my nearest store to check some of them out in person. How could I not with hints of spring peeking out everywhere??

Teddie Dress in black, $198, available here

I'm sure I've confessed that I don't have a classic black dress, so this dress looked like it could certainly fit the bill. I love that the sleeves are bracelet length for a nice arm party viewing, the hemline is at a perfect point and the shape is just on point. With that said, the price just made me cringe a little. I suppose for a classic dress that will be worn often, a few extra bucks are worth it, but the 100% wool content does not make it work for all seasons like the website claims and that makes me sad because I would want to wear something like this all year long. I tried this on in my normal size and it was a bit snug for me, so you might want to determine your size depending on your bust. Overall, this is a pretty dress and I was very excited to find that is comes in other colors. 

 Jules Dress in Fanfare, $188, available here

I saw a blogger review this print in a top and was really interested in seeing it in person. The print is not too over the top and this dress is a thumbs up for me. It's a simple shift shape that can look a bit shapeless, but I thought the fit was skimming without venturing into muu-muu territory. A simple belt could make a difference, but then the length might be compromised. Hmm!! The length is a bit short, but isn't too bad (unless you are really tall, in which case, this is a great tunic). It has two pockets in the front and I think that was a good decision considering some designers would place them near the hips and that would add unnecessary bulk in a trouble spot. Fit is tts.

 Lillian Dress in Watercolor Floral, $198, available here

This dress has a similar shape as the Teddie dress, except it has shorter sleeves. Can't you just see the First Lady wearing this dress!!?? It has a conservative hemline and an interesting pattern that I'm not sure what to think. It's like it can't decide if it wants to be a dark print dress or a light print dress. Not a bad thing, but just interesting. Regardless, it is quite a lovely dress. My problem with it is a little more apparent in the second photo above. The wool and silk blend looks like a future wrinkle mess and if I'm going to spend so much money on a dress, I want it to look almost perfect even if I decide to raise my arms or sit down during the day. This dress is just not it. Sigh, too bad. I sized up in this dress and it fit well.

 

Jaspe Pullover in Heather Indigo, $49.50, available here

Crinkle Chiffon Skirt in Warm Peacock, $118.00, available here

Look at this skirt move!! It has such a soft flow and this turquoise color is beautiful. I thought this was such a pretty skirt and I could just imagine how beautiful it would look blowing in the wind. Can't you just picture that Marilyn Monroe moment and you wouldn't have to worry about your undies showing ? :) I believe I tried this on in my regular size and the waistband was a bit tight. Whether that was from my lunch that day, I can't say for sure, but it you are in between sizes or have a little bit of belly, you might want to size up. Also, this length can be tricky for a lot of ladies my height or under, but this skirt would look so pretty with a pair of heels or wedges to help counteract the lack of leg showing. Good thing is, it also comes in petite size too. I might have to put this on my wishlist.

I picked up this top just to have something to try on and I must say it is pretty nice. The color is a soft blue that would work with so many things and the texture makes it a step up from just a simple blue top. Why this is called a pullover, I am not sure, because it seems like a regular tee. Maybe they thought the higher price wouldn't fly for something that was described as a tee. This top is a little overpriced for what it is, so I would wait for a sale. Sizing is tts to slightly big.

Tillary Tote, $328 in Blue Sea and Warm Sienna leather here

I posted this on my Instagram last week (on a separate J. Crew trip earlier) and thought I would post it here since there is a bit of interest in the very cute Tillary bag. I am a big fan of the Celine that this is copied after, so I have my eye on this bag. I don't know if this particular bag is a store only version since it didn't show up with the other new arrivals, but instead of leather, the majority of the body is canvas. That would make it perfect for spring and summer and although the colors read patriotic, it doesn't scream American flag (if that makes any sense). My only concern is that the light color could be a dirt magnet. That might be something a Magic Eraser can take care of for those leery of light colored bags. I was a bonehead and didn't snap a pic of the tag since I was trying to be incognito about photographing out on the floor, but I do believe it was a bit cheaper than the leather versions. This is a thumbs up for me, but I really wish it came in a different colorway. It's still pretty though, my likey!!

What captured your eye in the new arrivals? How do you take care of your light colored bags, if you dare to buy them in the first place?

OOTD- Still Going Strong

I hope you can't tell, but I was feeling quite under the weather in these pics. But that sure didn't stop me from continuing the bright color theme I seem to have going on this week. These blue pants were another score of mine during my recent J. Crew clearance extravaganza. I've seen them on plenty of other bloggers and loved the color, but I certainly didn't want another pair of capri pants that would get no love during winter. Imagine my happiness at finding this lone pair in my size, except it was in tall and fits like a regular pair of pants. Yes!! I can work with that!! Since this color reads more spring, I thought a bit of darker colors would make it look more season appropriate, but I don't think hot pink is dark. I couldn't help it, I have a color addiction guys.

Outfit Details:

"Yacht Blue" wool capri pants (wearing tall size)- J. Crew (available here on sale now)

Polka dot tee- StyleMint (Charlton style available in white and black here)

Pink mohair cardigan and leopard belt- J. Crew outlet (similar belt here)

Pink necklace- J. Crew

Link necklace- gift (similar necklace here)

Gray oxfords- Forever 21 (similar here and it comes in other colors too)

OOTD- Zig-Zagging in the Rain

I feel like it has been forever since I've taken an actual outfit picture with a camera. The rain didn't stop my show!!

I had to leave the house super early, so this outfit was hastily put together. I pulled out some simple pieces (black skirt, black tank) and added something interesting like my new cardi and a tangle of necklaces. I of the belief that you should never underestimate the power of accessories. Even if you aren't into jewelry there is always a pretty scarf or funky tights. They can instantly elevate the simplest of outfits.

Have a fabulous Thanksgiving and if you are braving crowds on Black Friday, be safe!! I'll stay safely at my computer with a plate of yummy food. :)

Outfit Details:

Black tank- H&M

Gray spotted cardigan- Old Navy (available here)

Black knit skirt- Gap

Socks and umbrella- Missoni for Target (tights available here and rainboots available here)

Crystal necklaces- J. Crew (available here and here)

Black flat boots- BCBG

I had a request to see the crystal brulee necklace up close so here it is:

A Hodge Podge

First off, I want to thank all of you wonderful guys for the well wishes for a speedy eye recovery. It made my heart happy. Although things are bit fuzzy (especially print and especially on the computer screen), my vision is improving (slooooowly) every day and it is such a weird and wonderful thing not needing to put in my contacts.

I'm not quite ready for an outfit post since I have not been wearing any make-up and don't need to subject you guys to that look, so instead here are a few random pics over the past few weeks:

Me crying (not really) about the soon to be loss of my glasses (before surgery)

Shoes I tried on at Gap recently. Still debating if I should get them, what do you think?

Stamped leather boot, available here

Arm Party!!! Leopard watch, new skull bracelet, and spike bracelet

Timex Easy Reader Leopard watch, available here

Skulls Drawcord bracelet, available here

Forever 21 Spike bracelet, similar version here

Random outfit never posted (oops):

J. Crew Tippi sweater in bright dahlia, available here 

Equipment Sophie striped blouse, similar here

Marc by Marc Jacobs "Natasha" handbag, available here

OOTD- Flight of the Crazy Bird

It's the return of the birds!! They just keep coming back. I had two reasons for wearing this dress: a.) I love it and would wear it at least once a week but I'm sure we'd all get sick of that and b.) in the span of a week I've seen two different bird dresses. I thought I would let you ladies get in on the tweet, tweet action too.

I have a lot of texture and pattern going on in this outfit, but it is a total win for me. I love all of these pieces, especially my new grandpa cardigan. Seriously, is there nothing better on a crisp day than a warm and cozy sweater? And if all of my birds and the pattern of my knit wasn't enough, I added polka dots on top of that. Is it all a bit too much? Quite possibly, but if it is, just let me be crazy pattern lady for the day.

Outfit Details:

Bird dress- Erin Fetherston (similar here and here)

Marled cardigan- J. Crew (similar here, here and plus-size here)

Polka dot tights- Madewell (available here)

Black belt- J. Crew (similar here in suede)

Black buckle boots- Dolce Vita for Target

Black handbag- barr+barr

Notes from the Dressing Room-Back in Tops at J. Crew

You guys, I had no intentions of going to J. Crew, but with some time to kill before a party, I got sucked in and tried on a few things. Here are just a few tops for review (because I was being lazy about removing my shoes with laces that are a million miles long):

Stripe Vintage Thermal Tee in Heather Graphite, $45, available here

J. Crew is on stripe overload!! There were rows and rows of these thermal tops right by the door in so many colors and stripe variations. The subliminal message to try one apparently worked on me. This is a step up from just throwing on a regular tee when it gets colder because it has a thicker feel. I could see myself wanting to wear this layered under a cardi or vest, but be warned that it is definitely a more fitted style if you care to wear it alone. I would have to try this on in a different size and in the beautiful bright dahlia color. J. Crew sure knows how to do the pretty purples. Depending on your chest size or body shape, you might want to size up.

Boy Shirt in Blue Vintage Camp Flannel, $78, available here

This is definitely not something I would normally look to wear although I'm pretty sure I owned a black and white flannel shirt sometime in my high school years. I love the colors of this shirt, the blue is wonderfully vibrant. Surprisingly, this got a thumbs up from the guy because although it is not the most feminine top, apparently my lady lumps definitely help it out. :)

The fit is tts, the flannel isn't the softest, but it still feels fine on the skin and I have to say the colors are pretty. This top would lend itself well tucked into some skinny pants or cords with heels and even a skirt with tights and a nice shoe. 

Perfect Shirt in Royal Paisley, $88, available here

I have my heart set on this paisley print in the blouse form, but this was the only top available. I am now definitely on board with this print. It's interesting and has a nice mix of colors (green, yellow, pink, purple). This top is a cotton and silk blend that gives it a soft feel, but it does concern me that the silk would make it susceptible to possible tears and looking worn after lots of wear. These are all hypotheticals though and I think it would make a good buy if you are looking for something other than stripes to add to your closet. 

Shimmer Bow Sweater in Sparkle Pebble, $88, available here

I was all for a gold sweater, but this was just disappointing. There is a cute little ribbon at the back that creates a small keyhole opening, but that pretty much ends the good points. The fabric is itchy, prone to snags and thin; thin enough that you can see your bra through it and that's just a quality no "sweater" should have. It does come in a gray color that might alleviate the see-through issue. The concept of this sweater was good, but the execution was lacking. If this sweater happens to work for you, fit is slightly big

Silk Scoopneck Blouse in Seine Stripe, $98, available here

Just can't stay away from the stripes!! How could I resist when it came in a blouse version? I loved this top. It feels like it could be a thick silk, but it's a rayon blend. It does give the fabric a weighty feel to it. The stripes are placed in a way that is flattering. My only issue would be some seaming on the sides break up the lines of the stripes near the bust. I wouldn't find it a huge deal. I tried this on in a size up and the fit worked for me. I would say it is tts, although the busty ladies might want to size up.

That concludes my unexpected trip to J. Crew. I do have plans to check out some other stores in the near future, so you guys get variety here at Notes From The Dressing Room!!

Happy Shopping!

Notes from the Dressing Room-Feeling Cozy at J. Crew

I received J. Crew's November catalog almost 2 weeks ago and I was completely enamored with all of the gorgeous colors and there are so many wonderful looking coats and tons of outfits that I can totally create with my wardrobe. I love it so much that I look at it before bedtime and plan out an imaginary wishlist for when I win the lottery and can buy everything I want. :) I felt a trip to the store was in order to see some of these items in person, but sadly none were to be found. I did see a few other items that caught my eye, so here's a few reviews:

Fisherman Sweater in Heather Honey, on sale $69.99, available here

Cafe Capri in Houndstooth Wool, $138.00, available here

Although sweaters are an iffy thing for me, especially when it has lots of texture, I couldn't help but pick this out. I love the warm golden yellow color and the different textures are fabulous. It adds a nice hint of interest to something so basic. The only issue I had was a bit of itchiness, but not to the point of being unwearable. I tried this on in a size up which I would suggest if you like to have a bit of room in your sweaters. These are now on sale in lots of colors!

If the product description says plaid, I'm instantly intrigued because when plaid is done right, it looks greatly sophisticated. These pants are no exception. They look like something you would find on an old "professor" jacket complete with an elbow patch, but in a subtle way. The great thing about these capris are that they are lined which is definitely a plus for the cooler weather. The only issue is that they are capris. I used to have a co-worker who would wear her J. Crew capri pants and pumps even in the dead of winter and I would always wonder if her ankles/feet were freezing. I'm sure this isn't as much of an problemo for those who drive everywhere, but I'm sure it is still a deterrent for many of us who have to deal with freezing temps. The fit is tts.

Fisherman Sweater in Heather Acorn, on sale $69.99, available here

Cafe Trouser in Maraschino Cherry, $138, available here

I'm on a quest for a tan sweater or top so I thought I would try out this fisherman sweater. Same as the one above, but in a different color and size. I'm pretty sure this is my regular size and it was definitely more fitted. I think this is a great sweater although my search for the right tan continues. Does anyone else find it difficult to get the right shade of tan and/or nude?

OMG, I never knew I could love a pair of pants so much. These get a serious, happy dance, thumbs up from me. The color red is absolutely fantastic and pretty, the leg has a nice fluid line that drapes the body in a good way and they just look like a fun, yet sophisticated pair of pants. The wool was soft; I didn't feel a hint of itchiness. The fit is tts. My only issue is that I would have to order petite size and there are too many colors to choose which one.

Boardwalk Stripe Zipper Tee, $52.00, available here

Elsie Skirt in Nightfall Floral, $98.00, available here

I tried this top on just to pair with the skirt since they shared similar colors. I really like the color mix here and it has a zipper detail on the sleeve. Overall, a nice tee although I'm not 100% sure whether it is worth the full price. Fit is tts.

This skirt was apart of the recent new arrivals and I was really interested in checking out its pattern in person. This is a wonderful fall/winter kind of floral with the dark background with pops of color. The skirt has a nice medium weight to it and the length was great at almost to the knee. It has a little bit of stretch to the waistband and the fit is tts. I don't think most cottons should run you close to $100, so the price point is a bit hard to swallow although it is a very nice skirt.

This one is for Ina!!

Acorn Fireball Bracelet, $38.00, available here

One of my lovely readers, Ina, was curious about the crystal brulee and acorn fireball bracelet, so I tried on the latter for her. I have the crystal brulee necklace in pink (see here) and think it is such a fun piece. I love the color and how it adds a bit of youthful bling. Since it also comes in a blue, clear-ish and a beautiful lilac-gray tone, I would say pick one up for sure.

The acorn fireball bracelet is adorable. It reminds me of a charm bracelet, but with some bling and a hint of color (although it does come in black too). I love the muted gold tone and how the charms and the links are a nice moderate size that doesn't overwhelm the wrist. This bracelet is at a good price-point, so I think it is a great buy.

I hope you enjoyed the reviews!! I hear new arrivals are coming to the stores this week, so I might have to make another trip. I'm dying to see some of the new coats in action (not that I need more coats in my closet, but I just can't resist a pretty color) and there is some paisley that wants to be mine.

What do you have your eye on in the stores?

**Use code OURTREAT for an extra 30% off sale items**