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:
Style card for fix #9
Kut From The Kloth Siena Cropped Pant
Kut From The Kloth Siena Cropped PantKut From The Kloth Siena Cropped Pant (cuffed)
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
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
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
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
Skies Are Blue Liffey Button Down TopSkies Are Blue Liffey Button Down Top (sleeves rolled)Skies Are Blue Liffey Button Down Top (back)
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!
So last week Corner and I upgraded to a new crockpot. Our old one was only 4 quarts, and was also round (rather than oval-shaped), and I was starting to find it a bit limiting as far as which recipes I could make.
The first recipe we tried in the new slow cooker was this summer slow cooker lasagna with zucchini and eggplant. Corner did the vegetable prep work and I helped layer it all into the crockpot. I think we made this last Monday. Highly recommended.
Then I made this root beer pulled pork recipe on Wednesday. This recipe is the easiest of the easy. 5 ingredients and no prep — just dump it all in the slow cooker and come back 8 hours later. We served the meat on tortillas.
I also made this slow cooker black bean enchiladas recipe. Corner’s coworker Kelsey came over to hang out after work on Friday and we ate these. They were a big hit. Very easy recipe with fairly minimal prep work (cutting the onion and pepper, then assembling and rolling the enchiladas). The leftovers were super tasty, too. Here’s some in-progress photos:
Enchiladas: assembling the fillingEnchiladas: layer oneEnchiladas: layer twoEnchiladas: cooking in the new crockpot
Some friends have been bugging me to start a blog based on my “Adventures of Cooking With Kristen While Corner’s Not Home” Facebook posts. I don’t think I can manage a second blog at this point (since I post rather infrequently in this one), but I do promise to blog more about my cooking endeavors.
Alas, nothing really went wrong in the two above recipes that I prepared by myself, so you won’t be hearing about my misadventures this time.
My latest Stitch Fix box arrived on Friday — several days early! I had originally scheduled the box to arrive today (my birthday) as a special birthday treat.
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 cute summer staples and maybe a dress or two for upcoming summer weddings. I also indicated I don’t need any shorts. In general, I feel like my stylist played it very safe and sent pieces similar to ones I have liked or purchased from previous fixes.
Here’s what was in the box:
Style card for fix #8
41 Hawthorn Veria Cross Over Knit Top
41Hawthorn Veria Cross Over Knit Top This top is nearly identical to the Pixley Montgomery Chevron Print Cross Front Knit Top I bought in my February fix. I like the pattern and fit of the Pixley top a lot better. I actually don’t love these cross-front tops, but I made due with the Pixley one from my February fix because I liked the pattern. This 41Hawthorn top is too big in the bust and thus hangs a bit droopy in the front. Also, the color and pattern are “meh” to me. I was so bored with this top I didn’t even bother taking a photo of it wearing different bottoms (because yes, it has been suggested to me that it would look better with jeans or a shorter skirt). Oh well. Verdict: Return
Pixley Panorama Henley Blouse
Pixley Panorama Henley Blouse (front)Pixley Panorama Henley Blouse (back)Pixley Panorama Henley Blouse (with pencil skirt)
This top reminds me of the Skies are Blue Esla Split Neck Top from my April fix. I liked that top better with the front pockets and hot pink accents running through the plaid fabric. This top, while it fits better, is a little too simple for my tastes. Also I do not know how to wear shirts that are shaped like this at the bottom. They look silly untucked and they look silly tucked in. My style card specifically said to try it with the Eight Sixty Iona pencil skirt from my last fix as a way to mix and match patterns, but it just wasn’t my thing. I also liked this top a lot better until a friend pointed out the pleat in the front makes it look like maternity clothing. Yikes! Verdict: Return
Mystree Ben Maxi Dress
Mystree Ben Maxi Dress (front)Mystree Ben Maxi Dress (back)Mystree Ben Maxi Dress (skirt detail)
I am torn on this one. I really like the pattern and asymmetrical nature of the skirt, but the top portion is very plain. I’m not sure I love the shape of the straps and back. I almost feel like it HAS to be paired with a denim jacket or other outer layer in order to look good, and sometimes you just want to go sans outer layer. However, not all maxi dresses work for me and this one sorta works, though I wish it was 1″ shorter because I don’t own any heeled sandals at the moment. Upon closer inspection, the bottom hem is raw (not really a hem at all). My mom says I can use her rotary cutter to cut it shorter when I visit later this month. Also, friends have convinced me that this will look great paired with a scarf or statement necklace. Verdict: Keep
Le Lis Marlon Dress
Le Lis Marlon Dress (front)Le Lis Marlon Dress (back)
Apparently I am a sucker for black and white dresses. As soon as I pulled this dress out of the box I was hoping it would fit. It reminds me of the Herve Leger dresses I am constantly pinning to my style pinboard (thanks for noticing, Megan!). I love that the stripes are on the front AND back of the dress. The white portions are actually an interesting textured fabric & almost like seersucker? I think it adds interest. The dress is very figure-flattering also. Definitely a keeper. Verdict: Keep
Marlyn Schiff Kamala KO Cuff
Marlyn Schiff Kamala XO Cuff
Honestly I could take it or leave this bracelet. I like that it’s silver, but I think the ends could be more interesting than “X” and “O”. It’s a bit large for my wrist and I’m afraid it will get caught on things or that I will lose it. Verdict: Return
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!
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:
Style card for fix #7
Eight Sixty Iona Pencil Skirt
Eight Sixty Iona Pencil SkirtEight Sixty Iona Pencil Skirt (side view)Eight Sixty Iona Pencil Skirt (paired with my own cardigan)
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
Romaine Split Back BlazerRomaine Split Back Blazer (paired with my own scarf)Romaine Split Back Blazer (and pencil skirt)Romaine Split Back Blazer (back)
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
Esla Split Neck TopEsla Split Neck Top (back)
Esla Split Neck Top (with blazer)
This is Corner’s favorite item in this box, but I’m sort of undecided. If I don’t have my hand on my hip the top is pretty blouse-y. It is longer in the back than in the front. Does this mean it’s not supposed to be worn tucked in? Anyway, the top fits pretty well and I like the plaid pattern of the fabric (especially the hint of hot pink running through it!). Seems like it could be dressed up or down. Verdict: Return
Brixon Ivy Azurre Lace Overlay Blouse
Azurre Lace Overlay Blouse
Azurre Lace Overlay Blouse (belted)
This top. Wow. I don’t even know where to begin. It seems like a wardrobe malfunction waiting to happen. The built in camisole seems very cheaply made. Also the cami is pretty low cut and I had trouble pairing a bra with it. The lace pattern is so wide; I feel like it dwarfs my small figure and makes me look boxy. I really didn’t like how it looked on me. I tried belting the shirt to give it a little more shape but still no. Not sure what my stylist was thinking on this one. Verdict: Return
Zad Dawson Hammered Layered Metal Bib Necklace
Dawson Hammered 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:
Stylecard for Fix #6
Pixley Montgomery Chevron Print Cross Front Knit Top
Pixley Montgomery Chevron Print Cross Front Knit Top (front)Pixley Montgomery Chevron Print Cross Front Knit Top (back)
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
Mystree Kayella Lace Sweater (front)Mystree Kayella Lace Sweater (back)Mystree Kayella Lace Sweater (pink underneath to show detail)
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
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
Pixley Bowen Textured Top Dress (front)Pixley Bowen Textured Top Dress (back)
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
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: Style card
Brixon Ivy Janette Fitted Open Cardigan
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
Octavia Alana Reversible Plaid & Houndstooth Infinity ScarfBrixon Ivy Janette Fitted Open Cardigan
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
Henry & Belle Abana Coated Ankle Length Skinny JeanHenry & Belle Abana Coated Ankle Length Skinny JeanHenry & 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
I like the idea of this sweatshirt. The stylecard says it’s navy, but it looks more purple to me. It is not a hoodie, more of a cowl neck (hence the “funnel neck”?), but there is still a front pocket. However, it is way too big around the waistband. Also, it is sort of jersey material and kind of thin & I don’t think it would actually be very warm for winter without layering a ton underneath. Sending it back.
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.
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:
Style card
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
Pixley Karolina Spaghetti Strap Polka Dot Dress
Pixley Karolina Spaghetti Strap Polka Dot Dress
This dress is super cute, and I appreciate that it is lined (the lining made it feel expensive!). It’s hard to tell in the second photo but the dress is dark blue, not black, with white polka dots. The fabric feels nice and cut is adorable, but it is too big in the bust for me. Sending it back.
Market and Spruce Jeanne Space Dye Knit Tank
Market and Spruce Jeanne Space Dye Knit Tank
This tank reminds me of one of my favorite tanks that I had in middle school — in a good way. The old tank was green and white striped; this one is a mix of white and shades of burgundy. I am not sure I love the tuxedo shirt-esque cut but I am keeping it and going to see if it grows on me. I couldn’t pass up a comfy shirt that was this soft!
THML Clothing Alvarez Stripe & Colorblock Embroidered Tank
THML Clothing Alvarez Stripe & Colorblock Embroidered Tank THML Clothing Alvarez Stripe & Colorblock Embroidered Tank THML Clothing Alvarez Stripe & Colorblock Embroidered Tank
I went back and forth on this shirt the most. I like the color/pattern combination but everything else is a bit weird. Didn’t like that I can’t wear a regular bra with it.
Renee C Tucker Mini Floral Print Split-Back Blouse
Renee C Tucker Mini Floral Print Split-Back Blouse Renee C Tucker Mini Floral Print Split-Back Blouse Renee C Tucker Mini Floral Print Split-Back Blouse
The front of this top is cute, but I’m not sure I like the tux tails in the back. I guess I could pair it with a cardigan, but that sort of defeats the purpose of this particular unique detail. I do like the color/pattern. I had a hard time getting my broad shoulders in/out of this top and was afraid of ripping the seams around the neck and armholes. Corner really likes it, but alas, it’s going back.
Market and Spruce Abi Colorblock Maxi Dress
Market and Spruce Abi Colorblock Maxi Dress Market and Spruce Abi Colorblock Maxi Dress 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.
So in keeping with tradition, I received my latest Stitch Fix box at the beginning of the Labor Day holiday weekend (so far I’ve gotten a box every 3-day weekend this summer). This is the first fix I received while living in DC (yeah, I know I’m way behind when it comes to writing a post about the move…apologies for that).
I apologize for the quality of the photos — I received this box while we were packing to head out of town, so I wanted to make sure I had time to send back everything I wasn’t keeping before we left for the long weekend. Thus the photos were taken at night when the light wasn’t great.
I think the Stitch Fix are finally hitting their stride and figuring out what sort of items I will like. I did find there were a few adventurous items in this box.
Here’s what was in my third fix:
August style card
Jamie Geometric Print Folded Clutch
Jamie Geometric Print Clutch
The chain of this bag seems to tangle easily, but I love the print and the feel of the fabric. I also think it’s neat that it can be used as a clutch or worn as a crossbody bag. Keeping it because it’s versatile and cute — and also because Corner liked it.
Elissa French Terry Moto Jacket
Elissa French Terry Moto Jacket
I have been pinning a ton of moto jackets on my style pinboard, and I think my stylist got the message. I LOVE this jacket. The fabric seemed more durable than the last moto jacket I was sent. It fit my shoulders perfectly and is totally the kind of moto jacket I’ve been looking for, but it was way too big in the waist for me (I pinned it back for the photos). I just couldn’t justify purchasing it when I knew I’d have to have it pretty heavily altered, so I’m sending it back.
Marche Zipper Front Dress
Marche Zipper Front Dress Marche Zipper Front Dress (w/Clutch)
This dress is a winner! I knew it as soon as I took it out of the box (I found myself immediately praying that it would fit!). I don’t think I would have picked it out for myself but I love the front zipper and the fabric feels luxurious. Also, it was the best fitting out of the dresses in this fix — I am thinking because it is my actual numbered size instead of just a more general “size small”. Plus the clutch looks really great with this dress. Keeping it!
Raiya 3/4 Sleeve Vneck Floral Shift Dress
Raiya 3/4 Sleeve Vneck Floral Shift Dress Raiya 3/4 Sleeve Vneck Floral Shift Dress (Belted)
Definitely not my normal style, but I decided to give it a go. This dress was cute but I found that it fit strangely. It did nothing to accentuate my waist, but I thought it looked okay belted. However, even belted, it was too tight in the biceps and shoulders. Also, the dress rode up when I bent over or sat down. I’m sad because I think it would have looked cute with my cowboy boots. Sending it back.
Sutton Mixed Chevron Print Dress
Sutton Mixed Chevron Print DressSutton Mixed Chevron Print Dress (Belted)Sutton Mixed Chevron Print Dress (Back)
I actually loved the print of the fabric, but this dress just hung off me. I tried wearing a belt with it but then it just looked weird. Overall the fit was too big, especially in the underarms and bust. The tiny straps made my toned shoulders look huge. This was the item in my box that I was least excited about. Sending it back.
I received my second Stitch Fix box in the mail on July 2 (3 days ahead of schedule!). They did a great job this time. In fact, I almost kept everything except a few of the pieces weren’t quite perfect.
I received a lot of questions from friends and family members after my last post asking about what Stitch Fix is and how it works.
Stitch Fix is a personal styling service. When you sign up, you fill out a detailed style profile about your sizes and tastes. For $20, you receive a box with 5 items. You don’t have to sign up for a regular subscription of any kind — just have Stitch Fix send you the box when you feel like it! If you like the items, you can buy them. If you don’t like the items, you can send them back. You can pick and choose which pieces you keep, and the $20 styling fee is applied to the price of the items.
I’m really enjoying it so far. Stitch Fix has sent me a bunch of items that I would not have picked out for myself, but that actually looked pretty good on me or encouraged me to explore a new brand that I hadn’t heard of before.
Without further adieu, here’s what was in my second box:
Carson Front-Twist Sleeveless Blouse
41Hawthorn Carson Front-Twist Sleeveless Blouse
I love the orange color, but I’m not really into the drapey-ness of the blouse. Stitch Fix keeps sending me drapey tops (maybe because I told them I didn’t want to show my midriff?). I left some feedback so hopefully I stop receiving loose tops. The top is only held together in front by 3 stitches; it seemed at risk for wardrobe malfunction at the slightest tug. Sending it back.
Johnny Skinny Jeans
Kensie Jeans Johnny Skinny Jeans
These jeans are great. The denim feels thick and expensive and I (somewhat surprisingly) like the dark wash. I love that the inseam is short enough that I can wear them with flats. They actually remind me of the jeans I received in my last fix, minus the accents plus back pockets. So good job Stitch Fix for taking my feedback from my last fix into account. Keeping ’em.
Aislinn Honeycomb Collar Necklace
Pixley Aislinn Honeycomb Collar Necklace
I love this necklace. I wouldn’t have normally picked it out for myself but it totally works. I don’t have a lot of chunkier pieces so this will be a great addition to my jewelry box. It’s chunky but not too chunky. Keeping it.
Saiara Sleeveless Dress
Andrew Marc Saiara Sleeveless Dress
This gray and black dress was a little too big in the bust. I can see why they chose it for me — it is reminiscent of some Herve Leger dresses that I like a lot. The fabric seems to wrinkle easily, so I was thinking it would not be great for riding public transportation because it would wrinkle on the hour ride to work. It’s hard to tell because this photo was taken from the side, but from the front, the placement of the side stripes didn’t really do anything to accentuate my figure. The price was also a little steep so it’s going back.
Deena Abstract Print Belted Wrap Dress
Tart Deena Abstract Print Belted Wrap Dress
This jersey dress is great — perfect for hot summers in the city! It’s hard to tell in the photo, but it’s actually navy and white. I thought it was black when I first tried it on because it was dark and stormy out the afternoon that I received it. At first I was wary because it is a wrap dress, but once it’s on, it is so cute! Definitely keeping it.
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.
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
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
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
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!