The leadup to this particular fix was a bit more dramatic than usual. I acquired $75 in credit from friends and acquaintances signing up, so I wanted to make sure I received some worthwhile items in this fix. I read a lot of blog posts and people’s tips for getting what they call a “5/5” fix — a box where you love every single item. I have yet to receive such a box, so I wondered if I should be doing something differently.

For those unfamiliar with Stitch Fix, it is an online personal styling service. When you sign up, you fill out a detailed profile about your sizing, cost, and style preferences. For $20, your stylist selects 5 items to send to you. If you like them, you can purchase the items. Your $20 styling fee can be applied towards the cost of the items you buy. You can keep all, none, or some of the items (if you purchase all 5 items, you get 25% off your order). You don’t have to commit to a monthly subscription — you can schedule one-off boxes whenever you feel like it! I have also found that curating my style Pinterest board has really helped guide my stylists towards what I like.

For this fix, I crafted a very specific note to my stylist. I asked for items similar to the ones featured in Stitch Fix’s From Work to Weekend: Summer Fridays Style blog post. I did note that I prefer slightly less summery options as we head into fall. I mentioned my frequent business trips to NYC and suggested that versatile travel pieces that work for both work + pleasure would definitely have a place in my wardrobe. I also asked for NO jeans because I just bought a bunch when Twice announced they were being acquired by eBay.

I also combed through my Pinterest style board and narrowed down the number of pins so they better reflected my style. I removed all scarves from the board because I already own too many (even though I’ve asked Stitch Fix to avoid sending me scarves, I figured you can’t be too careful). I got rid of anything flowy or bohemian. I also updated my style bio to inform Stitch Fix that I tend to wear a lot of black with pops of color. I even put together a separate pinboard of me wearing my fixes so that my stylist could see ME wearing items I’ve been sent in the past.

Here’s what was in the box:

Kut From The Kloth Siena Cropped Pant

Here’s a few shots of me wearing the Siena Cropped Pant (styled with my own tee and scarf). A Stitch Fix-themed Facebook group that I joined really raved about the various Kut From The Kloth pants. I have to say, the fabric is great. Just the right amount of stretch. They could be dressed up or down. I don’t currently own any olive-colored pants, and the color would be perfect for fall. Ultimately I decided to return these because I think they are a little too long to be considered crops on me. Verdict: Return

Brixon Ivy Bixby Clover Print Blouse

I could really use some more travel- and office-appropriate tops, and this blouse fits the bill. I did make sure to pair it with the Siena Cropped Pant as suggested by my stylist. Love the print, but I don’t love the cut of this shirt on me. It’s a bit too boxy or something. Verdict: Return

RD Style Elly Dress

I really like the color of this dress and the faux leather accents. And, THERE ARE POCKETS!!!! I think Heather really nailed my style on this one. I do wish it cut in at the waist more, but I was willing to overlook that. It photographed surprisingly well, however, the knit of the fabric is very thin. I was worried about snagging the setting of my engagement ring on it. I think it would be useful as a layering piece only, and I would want to wear black leggings (and maybe even a black cami) underneath for modesty. I’m bummed. Would’ve picked this one up if the fabric was higher quality. Verdict: Return

Sweet Rain Acadia Jacket

I feel like there is always an outlier item in every fix, and this time it was the Acadia Jacket. It would be cute if it was half the length. The pattern of the fabric is kinda neat (also I am a sucker for black+white), I like the shape of the collar and the large amount of trim at the bottom of the hemline and sleeve cuffs. However, it is far too boxy for my small frame. I tried pairing it with my Level 99 denim trousers from a previous fix. My stylist suggested pairing it with the Elly Dress, but I thought that pairing made the jacket look even boxier. Verdict: Return

Skies are Blue Liffey Button Down Top

This shirt was love at first sight. I pinned this exact shirt to my Pinterest board and I’m so glad Heather put it in my fix! I pulled this shirt out of the box praying it would accommodate my broad shoulders and it does (although barely — but if I sized up it would be too big everywhere else). The colors are outside of my normal choices for sure, and I don’t have any plaid items in my wardrobe at the moment (with the exception of one scarf). I like that it is cotton and not flannel so I can use it for layering (and also, I can start wearing it sooner! it’s still 90 degrees in DC!). I also like that the sleeves can be worn rolled up or down. Quality could be a bit better (I already see a couple buttons that I’d like to reinforce), but I’m still really looking forward to wearing this shirt this fall! Verdict: Keep

Keep: 1
Return: 4

Overall I think the time I spent improving my style bio and pinboards was well worth it. With the exception of the Acadia Jacket, every item in this fix was pretty close to my style! Just a couple of fit and fabric issues. Also, I think this is my least expensive fix to date? The most pricey item is the jacket at $74.

If this post was helpful and piqued your interest about Stitch Fix, please consider using my referral link to sign up!

My latest Stitch Fix box arrived yesterday! However, yesterday was rainy and dreary so I wanted until today to ask Corner to snap some photos.

For those unfamiliar with Stitch Fix, it is an online personal styling service. When you sign up, you fill out a detailed profile about your sizing, cost, and style preferences. For $20, your stylist selects 5 items to send to you. If you like them, you can purchase the items. Your $20 styling fee can be applied towards the cost of the items you buy. You can keep all, none, or some of the items (if you purchase all 5 items, you get 25% off your order). You don’t have to commit to a monthly subscription — you can schedule one-off boxes whenever you feel like it! I have also found that curating my style Pinterest board has really helped guide my stylists towards what I like.

For this fix, I asked for clothes that are good for traveling but then can easily make the transition to a business casual office. I was thinking for when I take the bus or train from DC to NYC and immediately head into the office. I’m not sure the items that were sent really fit the bill; the blazer is too easily wrinkled and I don’t think a pencil skirt would make for a comfy bus or train ride. But…a couple of the items are cute either way.

The first thing I noticed when I opened the box was how color coordinated this box was! I love it when that happens because it usually means I can pair a few of the items with one another to make a new outfit.

Here’s what was in the box:

Eight Sixty Iona Pencil Skirt

This skirt is really cute. I love the bold print on the classic pencil skirt. I wore the crap out of my last pencil skirt (it was a gray banded one from Express). This one features colors that are already part of my wardrobe, so I think I own some things I could wear with it. Also I like that the base color is black. I love black. If I buy this skirt, I think it needs to be hemmed up an inch or so. It is a little too long, and actually inhibits my knee movement more than a pencil skirt usually does. I have it rolled up a bit for the photos to make it a more normal length. Verdict: Keep

Pixley Romaine Split Back Blazer

This is the first blazer Stitch Fix has sent me. I don’t actually own any blazers (possibly because I work from home 95% of the time?). I was willing to entertain the idea of this blazer. The back is interesting, and the blue color is nice. The blue actually matched the pencil skirt really well! I think the sleeves are too short for me (I TOLD Stitch Fix I have longer than average arms). I tried rolling up the sleeves, but the lining doesn’t really look like it’s meant to be showing. Also the fabric wrinkles quite easily and there were already a lot of loose threads along the seams. Verdict: Return

Skies are Blue Esla Split Neck Top

Brixon Ivy Azurre Lace Overlay Blouse

Zad Dawson Hammered Layered Metal Bib Necklace

This necklace is just okay. You can actually see it paired with some of the other item photos above. I don’t usually wear gold and I’m not sure I like the hammered aspect on this particular piece. I do like the length of the necklace and how it looks nice with a regular crewneck shirt. If the pricepoint were lower I might consider keeping it. I just don’t see myself wearing it that often. Verdict: Return

Keep: 1
Return: 4

If this post was helpful and piqued your interest about Stitch Fix, please consider using my referral link to sign up!

I love scheduling my Stitch Fix boxes for holiday weekends! Makes it feel like such a treat, and also means I usually end up with an extra day or two to ponder the items that I receive.

For those unfamiliar with Stitch Fix, it is an online personal styling service. When you sign up, you fill out a detailed profile about your sizing, cost, and style preferences. For $20, your stylist selects 5 items to send to you. If you like them, you can purchase the items. Your $20 styling fee can be applied towards the cost of the items you buy. You can keep all, none, or some of the items (if you purchase all 5 items, you get 25% off your order). You don’t have to sign up for a monthly subscription — you can schedule one-off boxes whenever you feel like it! I have also found that my style Pinterest board has really helped guide my stylists towards what I like.

I asked my stylist to send me a couple dresses in this fix because I am attending a roller derby leaguemate’s wedding in early March. Sadly I am on the fence about the two dresses that were included. Help me decide?!

Here is what I got in my President’s Day weekend fix:

Pixley Montgomery Chevron Print Cross Front Knit Top

When I pulled this top out of my box, I thought I would be facing another drapey top from Stitch Fix that didn’t fit me right. I am not well-endowed so these tops tend to be too low cut on me. However, my stylist nailed the fit on this one as the front of the shirt has plenty of extra fabric and it fits in such a way that everything is covered. It’s not my normal style, but I do like the print (I think it would be great officewear for my spring trips to NYC and could easily be paired with any number of colored cardigans). Plus Corner likes it, so I think I will keep it. Verdict: Keep

Mystree Kayella Lace Sweater

My stylist sent me this sweater with a note that she included it because she thinks I am adventurous. Well, I am adventurous but I don’t know about this one. First, I am afraid of the open knit getting caught on my multiple earrings as I pull it on over my head. Second, I have no idea what to wear under it. Third, if I am going to wear a sweater it’s probably because I am cold, and this wide open knit does nothing to keep the heat in. I think I’m going to rule this one out as impractical. Plus I already have a black sweater that I like. Verdict: Return

Yumi Trey Floral Dress

At first I pulled this dress out and said, “A size 10? What are they thinking?” Then I realized it is a UK size 10, which is equivalent to a US 2/4. Sadly, the waist is too big. I tried belting the dress around the waist but then the fabric just rumples up strangely. I do love the print and the fabric. You can’t see it in the photos, but the black parts have a lovely texture/very subtle print. I love the notch in the square neckline. Corner doesn’t like the obvious zipper up the back but I don’t mind it. Verdict: Return

Pixley Bowen Textured Top Dress

This dress would work for my friend’s upcoming wedding. I’ve been convinced that it will be easy to accessorize. Some of my derby friends commented that it looks purple but it is most definitely light grey. I like it, but it feels “safe” to me. It is lightweight and would be nice for spring/summer weddings. The fabric feels nice and the zipper worked easily. For the most part, the fit is pretty good, but I don’t fill out the bust area so the top part wrinkles funny. Also, the skirt fabric is prone to static cling and also seems like it will wrinkle easily. Verdict: Return

Level 99 Patrick Denim Trouser

When I read “denim trouser” on my stylecard, I immediately thought “ew”. But I was converted shortly thereafter. As soon as I pulled these on I knew they were going to be a good fit. At first I thought they were too short but they are actually the perfect length for wearing with a pair of flats. Stitch Fix has been knocking it out of the park with pants for me lately. Verdict: Keep

Keep: 2
Return: 3

If this post was helpful and piqued your interest about Stitch Fix, please consider using my referral link to sign up!

Finally — a sunny day and a husband who is home to help me take photos the day after my Stitch Fix box arrived!

I was really surprised when I opened up the box and for once, everything was in the same color palette. For some reason, knowing I could start pairing the items in my fix together (without having to dig into my closet) really appealed to me.

I didn’t request anything specific for this fix; I just indicated that I would like some comfy, cozy items for winter. I think my stylist (Sam) definitely hit the mark with this box of goodies.

Here’s what was in my fifth fix:

Brixon Ivy Janette Fitted Open Cardigan

This cardigan is soft and fits well. I imagine it looking great with a variety of tees underneath. For the pricepoint ($54), I don’t really like that the sleeves and bottom are unfinished — it cheapens the look. Also, I was wearing it for a few minutes and noticed that I was a little itchy near where the sleeves bend around my elbows. I checked the fabric contents of the sweater tag and sure enough, it’s 10% angora cashmere. I specifically requested no wool in my Stitch Fix boxes because I am slightly allergic. Sending it back.

Octavia Alana Reversible Plaid & Houndstooth Infinity Scarf

This scarf was love at first sight. It is the scarf pictured with the cardigan above. First, it’s fleece and thus cozy. Second, it’s reversible with two patterns that I love: houndstooth and plaid. I knew I was keeping it pretty much the moment I saw it.

Henry & Belle Abana Coated Ankle Length Skinny Jean

OH EM GEE. These pants are the greatest. The only thing that’s not the greatest is the pricepoint ($158). They are very similar to another pair of coated black jeans I already own from Lucky Brand, except better (the shade of black is better, the fit is better, they are less tacky and more shiny, and they are not dry clean only like my Lucky Brand ones). I had to filter some of the above photos because black is so hard to photograph. After some deliberation, I’ve decided to keep them (and possibly sell my Lucky Brand pair on eBay or something).

Loveappella Evie Draw String Funnel Neck Sweatshirt

41Hawthorn Elaine 3/4 Pleat Waist Dress

I really liked the idea of this dress, too. The length is perfect — not too short and not too long. I didn’t have time to dig out my tights or leggings like the style card suggested, but I did like it with my brown leather knee high boots. I LOVE the front pockets. The pleats help dress things up a bit. Sadly, the invisible zipper was dainty and very hard to work over the two thick waistband seams. I had to have Corner help me get in and out of it. Also, once I was all zipped up, the waistband of the dress felt pretty tight. I don’t think I could have eaten a big dinner while wearing this dress, haha. The dress was also a bit small in the shoulders. I give my stylist an A for effort on this one, but it’s going back.

Keep: 2
Return: 3

First off, I apologize for my delay in writing this post. I swear I am going to try to be a better blogger…and also post about things besides Stitch Fix!

This was the first fix that I have received late! I often time my fixes to arrive just prior to 3-day holiday weekends so that I have time to mull things over before I have to ship back the items I decide to return. Anyway, I timed this fix to arrive on October 10 — just before Columbus Day weekend. The box shipped on October 8…and then I didn’t receive it until October 14. Stitch Fix was already sending me notices asking me to check out before I had even received the box! So that was a bummer. I felt harried and rushed as I tried to decide what to keep and what to return.

Hence these photos are not the greatest because I didn’t have time to wait for a sunny day. Sorry about that.

Anyway, here’s what was in my fourth fix:

I appreciated that they specifically mentioned on my style card how some of these items would go with items that I purchased from previous fixes.

Pixley Karolina Spaghetti Strap Polka Dot Dress

Market and Spruce Jeanne Space Dye Knit Tank

THML Clothing Alvarez Stripe & Colorblock Embroidered Tank

Renee C Tucker Mini Floral Print Split-Back Blouse

Market and Spruce Abi Colorblock Maxi Dress

This dress is way too long, and since I’m still recovering from knee surgery that I had in May, I’m not comfortable wearing heels yet. Getting it hemmed is a possibility, except the way it’s colorblocked you would end up losing a lot of the blue color at the bottom. This dress is also too big in the bust, even while wearing a padded bra. Otherwise, comfy & cute! I do love the color combination. I guess I should tell Stitch Fix for future fixes to not send me items that specifically need to be worn with heels.

So sadly I only kept one item from this fix, and only because I didn’t want to lose my $20 styling fee.

Keep: 1
Return: 4

On Wednesday I received my first Stitch Fix box! My friend Leah has been receiving them for awhile now. I was finally convinced to try it out when my coworker received her first box and the styles were her to a tee (and her style is NOTHING like Leah’s). I decided to take a chance that they might actually be able to nail my style, too.

Here’s what was in my first box:

Collective Concepts Wintor Leopard Print Cross-Front Blouse

I was not immediately won over by this blouse. I think it looks like I am wearing a scarf. I do like the pattern of the fabric though, and Corner and Kathy were both adamant that I should keep it…so it stays.

Collective Concepts Christie Cross-Front Ruffle Detail Tank

I really liked the hot pink color of this shirt (the selfie shows the color much better, which is why I included it). The styling of the straps really showed off my shoulders and arms. I was uncertain what kind of bra I would wear with it though (I’m actually wearing a sports bra for the pics!). The top was also very sheer and crossed over in the front in kind of a gape-y way. Corner said it looked like maternity wear, which convinced me to send it back.

Sanctuary Rimini Striped Knit Jacket

I actually really, REALLY liked this jacket. I loved the moto style combined with the pastel colors. The material was very soft, almost jersey-like, and the fit in the shoulders was perfect. The arm length was also spot on. However, I have broader shoulders and the jacket was way too big around the waist — I probably would have needed to take it in nearly 2″ on each side. I pinned it back for taking photos. Really wish this piece had worked out.

SOLD Design Lab Jax Moto Detail Denim Pull on Pant

These jeans were almost a hit. The denim felt thick and expensive. They were a near perfect fit and I really like the detailing above the knees. (My right knee is still swollen post-surgery — the spandex of the stretchy denim acted like compression fabric and felt so good!) I almost kept them because they’re so comfortable, but the lack of back pockets is a deal breaker for me. Shows off the butt too much for my liking. I’d be curious to try this brand in the future but seek out a pair with pockets.

Kris Nations Baxter Geo Leaf Necklace

This necklace was adorable. It was very light and dainty, and I could see myself wearing it with a variety of outfits. It was a little pricey though, and it was so dainty I was actually afraid I might break it (I tend to do that with jewelry, especially necklaces).

Keep: 1
Return: 4

So did Stitch Fix nail my style? Kind of. I probably would not have picked out any of these pieces for myself, so I’m glad I got the opportunity to try on some new looks. I signed up to receive another box in July, so hopefully with a little refinement more of the items in the next box will be keepers!