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?

OOTD-I'm Watching You

Happy Monday guys! For once, I'm going to be happy to see Monday because I am one step closer to stuffing myself silly with food in just a few days, lol. I can't wait!!

While heading out for the evening this weekend, I decided to show off my new jeans. They certainly are bright, aren't they? I tried them on ages ago at J.Crew and immediately wanted to take them home with me, just for the color alone, but that $125.00 had me cringing. I have a good selection of designer jeans in my closet, but I don't recall ever paying full price for the majority of them. I stalked these suckers like a hawk, but this color never went on sale...until two weeks ago. The crazy thing is I took them off my radar because I had lost hope on getting a good deal, plus I really don't need more jeans. But all bets were off when they came down in price; I made these babies mine in a hurry. I couldn't help it, bright colors make me happy. And happy I was prancing around in my bright new denim and high heels, that I only wore them because I would be sitting down. I'm such a high heel wimp. ;)

What's your denim purchase persona? Do you like to buy designer or the more budget friendly options? If you buy designer, do you generally pay full price?

Outfit Details:

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

Abstract top- Forever 21 (similar here and here

Jeans- J.Crew "Toothpick" in neon violet (color available here on sale and similar here)

Black pumps- Yesstyle (similar here, here, real deal designer version here)

Black handbag- Foley + Corinna (same designer, almost the same style here and take an additional 20% off today with code MERRYDAY)

Black watch - Michael Kors (similar here, more budget friendly version here)

White bracelet- ILY Couture (available here)

OOTD-She Shoots, She Scores

I posted a pic of last weekend's activities on Instagram which included hopping in the car with my good friend and heading out to Lynchburg, VA to the shopping mecca that is the J.Crew clearance center. I went earlier this year with my mother and made out like a bandit. This time I wasn't so lucky, but this scarf and blazer were among the goodies that I did score. Do you know I actually tried on that scarf when it came out and really wanted to buy it but never did? I also tried on this blazer when it hit the Madewell stores and loved it but didn't buy it. Lady luck was definitely on my side, minus the fact that I didn't find any boots which is what I really wanted. Oh well, cie le vie!

I hope you guys have a fabulous weekend! There might be some shopping in my plans, hopefully for holiday presents, but I can't guarantee it will work out that way. The retailers have been way too tempting this week already and my wallet needs a break.

Outfit Details:

Scarf and turtleneck- J.Crew (similar scarf available here) (similar color top available here)

Orange blazer- Madewell (same blazer in other colors here and in ivory on sale here, wool alternative here, velvet alternative here)

Burgundy skirt- Forever 21 (pencil version available here, sweater skirt here on sale, cord mini alternative here, faux leather alternative here)

Burgundy bow patent flats- Shoemint (available here in very limited sizes, alternative designer version available here, cute smoking flat alternative at a good price here)

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?