Notes from the Dressing Room-Feeling the Gap

Lately, I've found myself a little unenamoured with the offerings of my favorite store that rhymes with G Stew. Madewell has been getting way too much of my money and Gap has piqued my interest whenever I view their website. I took a looky-loo in the store and even found myself in the dressing room. Here are a few reviews:

 1969 Western Polka Dot Dress, $69.95, available here

Lots of retailers have been throwing polka dots on jeans and chambray shirts these days, so it was only a matter of time before they migrated to other articles of clothing. I would love a polka dot chambray top, but don't feel like I need it, so the idea of this dress was intriguing. My size wasn't available, so I had to size up. There was way too much bagginess in this size so I would say this fits tts. This was a nice casual dress that can be thrown on anytime, the cotton felt comfy. The sleeves would look great rolled up or down, there were no button gaps going on, the length was great (not too long and dowdy and not inappropriately short, I'm 5'4 by the way) and the two chest pockets do a great job of blending in. The only thing that I could really complain about is the string belt which added nothing to this dress. I think something more substantial would work better at creating a nice shape. I'm still debating if I have a need for such a dress although I think it would be perfect for casual Friday at the office when I don't feel like wearing jeans. Thumbs up on this one!

 

Embellished Dolman-Sleeve T, $34.95, available here

So I was browsing through Net-a-Porter yesterday and came across this tee. I thought the jeweled neckline was fabulous, but there is no way in hell I would pay $500 for a tee. Okay, maybe if I was super filthy rich, but that's just craziness for what it is and I immediately thought this Gap tee gets the job done just as well at a fraction of the cost of the fancy one. The website made the jewels look pastel-y, but this was a more vibrant (slightly neon) pink in person. I'm not 100% sure why the description says it is dolman sleeve because I didn't find anything different about the sleeve on this compared to any other t-shirt. The weight on this is a bit on the thin size, but I wouldn't consider it tissue thin. I sized down in this and it fit great, not loose or tight, just right in the middle. I thought this was really cute and would have considered it, if I didn't already have a nice pile of tees at home.

 

Marbled Jacquard Jacket in Diva Pink, $69.95, available here

This cardigan reads more tweed-ish looking rather than jacquard. Who names these products? There's nothing cuter than a cardi with a retro feel but still modern enough to not make it look old. This looks like something I imagine Jackie O. might have thrown on in her times. The color is nice although it appeared more red than pink to me, the white trim was nicely done, the feel is soft and cozy and it has adorable (if incredibly shallow) pockets. Unfortunately, the button closure ruined the look for me. There was gaping (and I was just wearing it by itself, no extra layer) not only from a side view perspective but also in the front. Those buttons didn't want to lay flat at all. Sizing up would have been too big and sizing down didn't seem to be a good option for that issue. Perhaps it would have work best on a smaller chest. Overall, very cute, just not for me. Fit is tts.

 

1969 Dot Legging Skimmer Jeans, $69.95, available here

Dots, dots and more dots! I noticed that J.Crew came out with a chambray shirt with an open/abstract polka dot print and these jeans have the same pattern. I have one pair of Gap jeans from a million years ago that I picked up at Marshall's and other than that, I have not tried on any of their jeans. With all of the new (and super cute) patterns and colors that they have been rolling out, I figured it was time that I give them a try. I have to say, I am now a fan. These were soft, I thought they looked flattering on my shape and the length was just right for almost any shoe whether I went flat or heel. I'm fairly certain that I tried on my regular size in this as I forgot to capture the tag. I would probably go for that size although I would be concerned about these stretching out. I didn't snag these up because I have a ridiculous amount of jeans already, but I don't have too many prints. I will probably get one pair soon, just have to pick a pattern.

So I was only there to browse, but now I have some things on my wishlist (including these leopard shoes that you can see in some of the pics). Gap always have great sales, so something tells me, I might be adding a few things to my closet.

Anything catch your eye lately? Have you tried Gap denim before? Would you recommend?

Notes from the Dressing Room-Pattern Up at Madewell

After all of this holiday shopping it was time to pay the piper aka Nordstrom, so I had to take a little trip to the mall. It felt great not to walk around feeling crushed by the crowds and to not have to hunt for a parking space. While I was there, I peeked in a few other stores and Madewell made the cut. Lots of new arrivals in store and I tried on a few. Here are some reviews:

Starry Sweater in Heather Grey, $88.00, available here

This wasn't initially a piece that sparked my interest when I viewed it online, but given my recent propensity for patterns and especially patterns on sweaters, I thought why the heck not and try it on. My overall impressions are that it's cute, it felt comfortable and it was soft although not ultra soft as it is just a regular cotton sweater. I tried this on in my normal alpha size (L) and there was a bit of room towards the bottom. I don't think I would size down though as the arms might be tighter and it would leave less room in the bust area. This sweater has a low v-neck with a hint of cleavage showing, but not enough to be totally indecent. A simple cami or tank underneath would take care of that for more modesty. Overall, it is a really cute sweater, but when I just looked at the pics I uploaded, I noticed that the stars on the top front part are in a spot I'm not sure I want people's eye gravitating towards, lol. Like it, but not for $88.00.

Silk Rose Print Boyshirt, $118.00, available here

Button-down shirts aren't usually my friend, but this print was interesting. Plus, it reminded me of something I might have owned in high school. I can't say if that is necessarily a good thing because my style certainly has come a long way since then. Anyway, this silky top has some great things going for it. First, no button gaping!!! That's always an exciting thing for me because that's usually why I don't bother with button-downs. Although the fit is loose (it is a boyshirt after all), there is still some shape to it with the curved seam at the waistline. I feel like the print is borderline too overwhelming, but I could throw it on under a blazer and call it a day. There are hints of lavender and light green in this top, so I think it could work well with lots of different colored bottoms. Fit is tts to slightly big, if you are in between or have a smaller bust, you might be able to get away with sizing down should you want a more fitted look. Nice blouse and nice fit, but the pattern is something you either like or don't like.

Monochrome Shiftdress in Melodic Purple, $138.00, available here

That bit of purple peaking out from the flower blouse above is this pretty colored a-line dress. Purple is usually one of those colors I make a beeline for if I see it on a rack in the store; combined with the shape of this dress, I had to check it out at least. I love the color, I like that the shape isn't fitted but not totally shapeless, the non-sleeve makes this perfectly versatile for all seasons (throw a silky blouse over or underneath, a sweater, cardi or blazer to make it work for fall/winter). Oh, and it has a little slit pocket on the sides. Such a cute dress, although it is borderline on the too short side for me, plus I need to get on the Michelle Obama arm regimen before I bare mine in this dress. Thumbs up on this lady here. Fit is tts and it also comes in black.

Printed Linen Tee, $59.50, available here

I'm sure I've mentioned before that I love a Madewell tee. They never fail to entice me with a pretty color, comfy fit or interesting wash/pattern. I spotted this top and instantly thought it looked like confetti. Confetti equals party which equals fun, so I was totally on board. I didn't realize it at the time, but this is a linen tee which explains why it didn't feel very soft. It wasn't scratchy, but definitely not the feel of good ole' cotton. The fit is about tts, it isn't clingy in my regular tee size (L), but not baggy either. It has bracelet sleeves which are not my favorite, but it seems to work for this top. I'm not sure why they decided to make a linen tee during a winter roll out, but this would be great for layering now and wearing by itself when the weather is much warmer. I loved all of the colors in this top so much that I was prepared to take it to the register and buy it, but then I looked at the price tag. I had a price in mind that I would be willing to pay and $60 was not it. So sadly it went back on the rack, but I've got my eye on this one because I can see myself wearing it. Let's hope the fashion gods are good to me and bring the price down.

 Skinny Skinny Pants in Switchdot, $125.00, available here

These are definitely interesting. They look like jeans, but they are listed as pants, plus they don't feel like regular jeans and have a texture to them. I like the pattern on these pants, dots and lines that I are designed to make me look taller than I am, I'll take it! Most of the denim (or pants for that matter) with a pattern on it these days have the pattern printed onto it, but you can actually feel the dots in these pants. Now, these aren't super comfy and soft like denim, but they have the stretch of denim which makes them fit well. However, this cotton material reminded me of a dish towel. The cotton is thin and like a dish towel, you can feel the weave of the cotton. Like I said before, these are interesting, I don't know if I've ever tried on something like these. I decided to size up because I'm in between sixes on the bottom and I think that was a good call. The waistband fit without gaping or digging in and I didn't feel like the legs were too tight. The length came down to my ankle and didn't seem like high-waters, so that was a plus (because that is usually the case with anything ankle length at J.Crew). And it came right underneath my belly button, so the waist was in a great spot to hold everything in where it is supposed to be. I give these a thumbs up.

Have you been to the mall since all of the holiday madness? Any new arrivals that have caught your eye?

Notes from the Dressing Room-Madewell, Dress Edition

Madewell is currently offering 25% off dresses, so this post is right on time. I've mentioned before how I love a Madewell dress. They always offer an array of different shapes, colors and prints. I usually can't resist something in their new arrivals. Here are a few reviews from a recent store visit and an order with the holiday 25% off deal.

Colorblock Sequin Dress, original price $198.00 (on sale for $149.50), available here

I circled this dress in the store debating if I should even try it on, but I couldn't resist the call of the sequins. This dress is so festive and perfect for a fancy or even a not so fancy party or event this holiday season. It has a simple shape, but the light to dark (silver to navy to black) sequins give it lots of character. I sized up in this dress due to the zipper and the fitted waistband and that was definitely a good call. It still has a bit of shape, but there is room to feel comfortable dancing the night away or eating some yummy food without feeling constricted. The hemline isn't obscenely short, the sequins seemed well made and it has a lining. My only issue is the band around the waist. The ribbon on the website blended better into the dress, but this one just felt off to me. I think it might be the curve under the bustline. It would look better if they were both straight across or if the ribbon was moved a few inches higher. Despite that, I give this dress a big thumbs up and with the sale going on, a must buy.

Silk Multiprint Dress, on sale for $109.99, available here

I saw this dress online and instantly fell in love with the print and colors. I had to see what it was all about although I knew the shape would be iffy. When I pulled this dress out of the package, I still loved all of the colors in this dress, but I want to note that the blue sections down the front aren't as vibrant as they seem online. Then I tried on the dress and I just don't know what to think. Now this is a simple shift dress with very little to no shape. I threw on a simple belt with it to give it some kind of shape, but it didn't really work right because it created bunching and made the dress even shorter. It could definitely look better with a fitted cardi over it, but it would be a shame to cover up this dress. Sizing down might make the body fit nicer, but I have a feeling that it would be tight underneath the arms or across the shoulders. The length is about 2-2.5 inches above my knee, so it could definitely work for the shorter ladies (I'm 5'4). One thing I didn't like was the sleeve length. It isn't quite full-length and not really bracelet length. On the plus size, this dress is lined and it has pockets! The colors in this dress make it extremely versatile with a variety of colored tights for winter, but it would totally work alone in the warmer months. Truthfully, I would be inclined to keep this for the print/color alone, but I would love to hear your opinion. Keep or return?

Long-Sleeve Tunic Dress, original price $155.00 (on sale for $114.50), available here

I saw this dress in the last batch of new arrivals and instantly loved the color (also comes in black), how could I not with the name majesty purple? This particular dress doesn't have a defined shape like the dress I reviewed above, however the fact that it would work better with a belt and the button-up part at the top that allows some skin to show makes this number a bit more flattering. I tried this on in my normal alpha size (sames as above) and it fit well. If I sized down, there would be some serious button gaping going on, so I would stick to my regular size. The color is lovely, a rich grape purple shade (but like the crayon and not the juice, lol). The length works perfectly as a dress for me, but I suppose the taller ladies would find that this is more a tunic or mini-dress like it is on the model. I also want to note that the hemline is longer in the back, but it isn't as pronounced as it is shown on the website. I little disappointing for me, but not a big deal. This dress also has a neither here nor there kind of sleeve-length that I'm not crazy about, but this one works better at showing off the arm parties. Now this dress isn't lined and doesn't have pockets (serious sad face), but it has more potential. It would work so well with lots of other colors and it has a all-season quality. I'm certainly inclined to keep it, I can't resist the color, but I haven't made up my mind. I would still give it a thumbs up.

Any dresses at Madewell that you are eyeing? Are you going to take advantage of this latest promo?

Weigh in on the last two dress--should I keep or return?

Notes from the Dressing Room- J.Crew Quick Review

Are you guys all shopped out from the whirlwind holiday, Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals that went around the past week? Share your goodies so that I can live vicariously through you!! I stayed clear away from the malls minus a trip to Target on Thanksgiving night and the few purchases I made were before Thanksgiving.

So today I wanted to share with you a very quick review of an item I tried on during my last visit to J.Crew. I saw this top online and was definitely intrigued, so I was quite happy to see it in the store.

Silk Boy Shirt in Windowpane, $135.00, available here

No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Double Serge Wool in Spicy Gold, on sale for $99.99, available here

I love a good windowpane design. Whether it is on a top, a pair of pants, a chic looking blazer, or a nice skirt, I find myself instantly intrigued. I think it's a timeless kind of print and a bit more refined than some of those color plaid prints. I love plaid, but windowpane has an element of simplicity that I like better. Anyway, this top is essentially like the Blythe blouse that comes in lots of delicious colors but in a very bright pink and black windowpane design. I'm not afraid of color, so I love how vibrant and bright the pink is in this top. It might be too much for some, but it is a very pretty color. However, pink and black together might create limited outfits. Of course this would work well with black pants/skirt, perhaps something in cream or gray, but other than that, I'm not sure. Any ideas?

I tried this on in my normal number size, but based on the Blythe I knew there would be gaping issues. Sure enough, those bust line buttons did not want to stay closed. The fit on the body was a bit loose, but not in a bad way (it skimmed the body, but there was a bit of room in the torso and arms). It didn't feel tight in the shoulders and I'm broad across the top, so that's always a plus with button-ups. The length was a tad bit long reaching my hip area, but it wasn't overwhelmingly so. I would say stick to your regular size unless you have a larger chest size. Overall, I really loved this top and would have gotten it if it wasn't so pricey. It's going on my wishlist.

If the color palette of the J.Crew shirt doesn't float your boat, there are definitely other options out there Here are a few:

Gap Slim Cropped Windowpane Pants, $49.95, available here

Absolutely perfect for a day at work. Slim leg line, a subtle print and completely versatile.

Oversized Grid Print Shirt, $19.80, available here

I actually own this top and really like it. The fit is loose and it's borderline cropped, but it still works without looking bad. If I was the type to buy multiples, I would get it in the cream/black version too.

CashTouch Windowpane Scarf, on sale for $9.99, available here

Would this not make a great Christmas gift?

Tibi Windowpane Silk Shift Dress, $450.00, preorder here

Oh, how I love a Tibi dress, including this one. I would totally be on board with getting this, but I think I can recreate it with the F21 top above.

Joie Elan Sequin Windowpane Blouse, on sale for $111.30, available here

How awesome would this be for a holiday party or out for New Years Eve? I love this top and think the sequins are done just right, plus the color is different.

Do you like windowpane, its cousin plaid or both?

Notes from the Dressing Room- All in the Fabrics at J.Crew

I had a few hours to roam around the mall on Sunday before I got trapped in the house by hurricane Sandy. I certainly caught up on lots of sleep, episodes of Law & Order:SVU and the best part is the power didn't go out. I hope you guys on the East Coast managed to stay safe and dry.
You know I had to stop at J.Crew and check out the goods. Here are a few reviews:

Dream Colorblock Elbow-Patch Sweater in Flax Cabernet, $98.00, available here

Cafe Capri in Red Tartan, $168.00, available here

I've been a bit leery of buying sweaters lately because I want good quality ones that don't get the fuzzies soon after its first wearing, but there was something interesting about this sweater that made me give it a try. It has one color in the front and a different color in the back, it has a trim around the wrists and the best part are the elbow patches. I have a thing for elbow patches, lol. I get the smart professor vibe from them. Overall, I would say this is certainly a fun piece to have in the wardrobe. The length is good, it's something different, the elbow patches actually fit at the elbow and this particular color pairing would work well with lots of colors. BUT, the fabric was itchy (not overwhelmingly so, but still itchy and that's never good in a sweater) and I hate the cropped arm length (they couldn't shell out for a few more inches of fabric?). I tried this on in my regular size for sweaters (L) and it fit pretty well. There was room and it wasn't form-fitting, so size according to how you want it to fit. Overall, I like the concept of this sweater, but its feel and "short"comings did not make it worth the price for me.

It must be time for the holiday-esque pants. I felt cocktail party ready in these pants. Now I love the cafe capri pants and these are essentially the same pant in a print, but I am so tired of capris at J.Crew. Am I the only one? Can I get a full-legged pant one of these days? These pictures make me look like I'm wearing pants that aren't the right length. The wool felt soft, I didn't have the itchies when I put them on, the print is great and it would be perfect to dress up and down depending on the top. Sadly they weren't perfect. I feel like the pattern makes me look wide around the hip area, the fit was a bit baggy in the back and it would be much nicer if it was more tailored. I tried this on in my regular size and it felt too big. There was almost an inch of extra fabric in the waist and you guys can see the extra room in the leg from the picture above

Chiffon Top in Hothouse Floral, $138.00, available here

Toothpick Velvet Jeans in Rustic Brick, $110.00, similar here in other colors available here, tall version of this color available here

This blouse is getting a lot of love in the Crewniverse and it is certainly a lovely top. The vibrant green color mixed in with the darks make it great for fall/winter and there are several different colors that you can pull from the top to match with your skirts and pants. The blouse fit very well by skimming the body (not tight, not loosey-goosey), but there was a bit of an issue for me. The subtle pleating details at the top made it not lay right in the bust area for me, so busty gals be cautious about sizing. I tried this on in my normal numeric sizing, but I have a feeling if I sized up, the fit would be too blousey. Although taking it in would be a relatively simple thing for the tailor to do, I just didn't love this top enough to buy it and make it work for me. It is nice though!!

Velvet pants?? Don't mind if I do!! I absolutely love the velvet Schoolboy blazer, but have never added one to my closet, so I thought these velvet pants would certainly make a nice substitution. This color is a nice rusty orange, mainly orange but with undertones of red. Similar to the modern red color but not as vibrant and the darker tone made it much better suited for the fall/winter season. Even though there is more red in the blouse, I still thought the color of these pants worked with it. I tried these on in a size up, but I also tried my normal size in a different color. I would say sizing up worked better for me in terms of fit in the waist and hip area. There was some pulling across the front in my normal size, but it's hard for me to say whether they would end up stretching because I've never worn velvet pants. Again these are cropped, but they don't seem to look so high water like the plaid pants. These are a thumbs up and will be going on my wishlist.

 Long-Sleeve Tweed Dress, $215.00, available here

I've waxed on poetically (or not so poetically) about how much I like tweed, so I decided to try on this lady-like tweed dress. I had visions of looking Jackie O classy, but the real outcome was not so good. I love this tweed, it has a metallic sheen to it and all of the details definitely make it a pretty dress, but I seriously felt like I was wearing a straitjacket. I think the light color and the fact that it is fitted with no give helped to even put that thought in my head. The tweed is pretty thick on this dress, it has a fitted and defined waistband, the sleeves are bracelet length and the hem is at a modest point on the leg. All great qualities! It just didn't look right on me. I think it needs to show a hint of skin somewhere because it feels too mature. I sized up in this dress to accommodate my bust and waist. That was a better call because as I mentioned before, it is designed to really fit. Overall, very pretty, but not quite right. I'm sure it would look fabulous on some lady out there.

This shopping trip ended up with no purchases although I was tempted by a pair of shoes in the sale section. A big part of that is the fact that I haven't been enamored with the latest rollouts, but I've been trying to be good about not buying because I'm headed back to the J.Crew Clearance center this weekend! I've hoping to encounter some fabulous goodies (fingers crossed). If not, I see some velvet pants in my future!

What do you think of these items? Do you have any holiday outfits ready to go or will you be headed to the stores for the right outfit?

Notes from the Dressing Room- Someone's Smoking at J.Crew

That's not technically true, but something is in the water at the J.Crew office because I had to do a double-take at some prices more than once.

As I was out and about last night, I thought I would take a peek at Anthropologie, but J.Crew was on the way, so of course I had to go there first. Now to be perfectly honest I love J.Crew, but the latest offerings have not been leaving me overly excited and ready to buy (Madewell, on the other hand, has me filling up my virtual cart). That doesn't mean I don't still love the 'Crew and I was more than happy to see what was new in stores since my last visit. Take a look at a few items I got to try on:

Striped Caftan in Navy, $445.00, (not available online, Style#75634)

This top was in the front of the store with the new arrivals, so it's very possible this will be online with the next new rollout. I'm all for comfy, cozy and at times oversized tops. This looked interesting so I figured I would try it on. The sales lady helping me raved about how everyone in the store was loving this top and it is just so perfect and she can't wait to buy it. I put it on and thought it was nice, I could even possibly seeing myself wearing it, but it wasn't love. First of all, this piece is much better suited for spring rather than fall because the knit is a bit thin. Not see-through thin, but close enough. Another sales lady in the dressing room suggested putting a tissue turtleneck or a thin top underneath, but I find it a bit silly to have to layer a sweater. Second, this thing runs huge. Not big, huge! I am wearing an XXS/XS and you can see there is still plenty of room. When I belted it, there was lots of fabric gathered on the sides. I thought to myself that I would put it in the maybe pile, but then I actually took a look at the price tag and balked. This top is almost $500. Are you kidding me?? Who at J.Crew thought that was the appropriate price for this simple top with basic stitching. No sequins, special details or a basket full of puppies in sight, yet it was high three figures. My sewing skills are rather basic, but I'm sure I could create this myself. Now I was silly and forgot to take a pic of the fabric content, but even if this is made of 100% cashmere, I give this a thumbs down on price shock value alone. Sigh, really!!??

Collection Cashmere V-Neck Sweater in Neon Fuchsia, $188.00, available here

Toothpick Ankle in Geometric Print, $135.00, available here

I only wanted to try on the jeans and the sweater was an item the sales lady brought me to try on with them. I kind of love the print of these jeans. They are partially polka dot with a small hint of Aztec influence, or something like that, lol. The fabric isn't thick like a regular pair of jeans, but they are soft and still holds its shape. These jeans run small, but that's because they are meant to be tight/fitted. I really like these because the color combo can lend itself to plenty of different colors for a top and the pattern isn't too out there. I sized up in these and they fit well. I give these a thumbs up, but it was only like and not love, so at the store they stayed.

This cashmere sweater is so freaking cozy and I love the vibrancy of this pink color. I sized down and it still fit well, it followed my shape without being clingy. If I hadn't already bought a sweater in this color recently, I would definitely give this one some consideration.

Lady Jacket in Corkscrew Tweed in Dark Grape, $258.00, available here

I love a good blazer that's different, lady-like and/or a pretty color. I thought this little number would fit the bill, but I had some hesitation because J.Crew sometimes makes boxy blazers that just don't work for my figure. This one would fall in that category and then I actually looked at the details and wasn't so enthralled. The tweed material has a pretty interesting pattern, but it's thick and feels a bit bulky. I like the dark trim around the edges, but this material reminds me of a rug or something I might find on old, fancy curtains. And lastly, it has these big gold buttons and when I tried to close up the jacket, they didn't want to go through the buttonhole without problems. I sized up in this to get more length and because I have broad shoulders, but I would say it is tts. Overall, this jacket gets a thumbs down. The texture is great (although it has a fuzzy appearance that might get worse with time and wear), but the execution just isn't right for me. Oh, and the new catalog (aka style guide) shows that it comes in two other colors, sweet tangerine and vibrant fuchsia.

Other than a few sale items, that's it for my new arrival try-ons. I can say that it was an interesting visit for sure, but nothing that I absolutely loved, so I'm curious to see what's in the next batch of newness. Please J.Crew gods, do not let it include more $400 tops. My wallet might go into shock again and I don't want that happening.

What do you think of these new items? Would you ever spend $400-500 on a top?

Notes from the Dressing Room-All About the Details at J.Crew

I had a little time to check out J.Crew yesterday before it closed and I was excited to see some new items on the floor, especially in fall fabrics and colors. It's review time:

Boucle Peplum Jacket in Heather Graphite, $148.00, available here

I thought this jacket was really cute and it had a tweedy texture which you know I can't resist. The peplum is totally on trend and its size is perfect enough to not be overwhelming or too much. I tried this on in my regular size and while it fit well in the body, the shoulders and arms were a tad bit tight. Not enough that I couldn't move my arms or anything, but enough to make me wonder if I should size up one. This jacket also comes in a blue tone that was soooo pretty. I might have to go back and try on that one too. Overall, this is a pretty jacket to add to the collection. My only issue is that it isn't lined. That could be good for not adding bulk, but I have Forever 21 blazers with lining, so I'm not sure why they couldn't fork over some extra fabric for such a nice piece that's pushing $150.

Peter Pan Collar Tee (?), Style #15559, $89.50, similar available here

Cafe Capri in Navy Tweed, $148.00, available here

Hmm, this sure looks just like the Peter Pan top that's online, but it has a different style number and price. I thought this top would either be really cute or really matronly. I think it's somewhere in between, but either way this piece had such issues. I didn't take a look at the fabric content, but the second I put this thing on it was itch city. I'm not even that sensitive to fabrics, but it was unbearable. If you tried to remedy that with layering a thin tee underneath, it might not work well because this was also incredibly thin. If you look closely enough to the pics, you can see the outline of one of the necklaces I had on. If that wasn't enough, the arms were inexplicably baggy. I might have been able to size down, but I really think the arms would still have lots of room. As you can tell, I was disappointed in this top. The top version online might work better than whatever this is and can't seem to locate online.

On the other hand, tweed is my kryptonite and they had me at hello with these capris. The tweed feels substantial, the pants are completely lined and the blue mixed in with the metallic threads is just a touch fancy. I love these pants! Fit is tts. The one big issue I had though is that the there were some loose threads on these already, so I feel like this would be a problem with wearing and going through day-to-day activities. They might be a fuzzy mess after awhile. That's not going to stop me from coveting this pants though. Thumbs up!

French Hen Sweater in Acorn Blue, $95.00, available here

I saw another blogger's review of this yesterday and thought it was certainly an interesting piece. Sweaters with some kind of animal print seems to be the in thing right now. This is essentially the Tippi sweater with a print and I do think it is cute. What is not cute is the price! They want me to pay about $100 for a sweater that doesn't feel particularly luxurious or fancy with someone's random sketch. Hmm, I don't know. If you really like the hen, then this is certainly the sweater for you. It's cute, but not $100 cute. They should have put this on a tee instead. Fit is tts and the fabric did not cause the itch, so plus on that end.

 

 Oversize Merino Sweater in Modern Red, $118.00, available here

Minnie Pant in Bi-Stretch Wool in Cabernet, $118.00, available here

Excuse the blurriness, but I wanted to show the shape of the pants

J.Crew had an oversized cashmere sweater similar to this that I just loved, but never bought. I thought this orange (that is most certainly not red like the color description states) sweater would make a great substitute. Let's see, they certainly weren't kidding when they chose to include oversize in the product description. I didn't know what this was when I walked into the store, but I still had the thought to size down. As you can see, it is still roomy. I didn't have a chance to try an even smaller size, but I would venture to guess that it would still fit with no issues, probably not even the arms. I like the oversize feature although it doesn't quite like me back. This sweater is soft, it has a pretty deep v which might not work for some ladies and it has pockets although they are strangely made of nylon or a nylon type of material. I'm not sure why it couldn't have been made of the same wool material, but I wouldn't discount this sweater because of that feature. Overall, I really liked it, but am not sure about the fit.

These pants are a great color and are definitely on trend although these could work for years to come as well. I picked them up and think I could have paired them with so many different tops in a multitude of colors. Now, the description says wool, but these didn't feel like the wool Minnies I already own. So either the product description isn't right, I'm remembering the texture incorrectly or they've cheapen out on the wool this season. I'm inclined to believe the latter. These are like the other Minnie pants I've tried on before: fitted with plenty of stretch. These were my regular size which fit just fine, but I have a feeling they would stretch out by the end of a day's wear so sizing down might be a good idea. If these make it to sale, I might have to snatch them up, but I have a feeling other retailers might have some good options in this color too.

That's all I had time for as far as trying on new arrivals. I now have a few new items on my watchlist.

What about you? Any new arrivals that have caught your eye lately?