Third shipment from StitchFix and their last chance to impress me...
* Topin - dolman button back sweater: Basically a large oatmeal colored smock. The fabric felt cheap and the fit was terrible, like wearing an old sheet. I did not like this.
* Camilla Tree - pleated skirt: Beautiful green skirt with lovely swishing pleats. But there was a flaw in how the fabric lined up with the zipper seam, making an odd shaped bulge beneath my hips. This totally destroyed the silhouette of the skirt. If it weren't for that, I would have kept this.
* Sanctuary - Alpes cotton henley sweater: The waffle texture on this henley made it look like underwear. It was also quite tight, not something that felt comfortable on me.
* MM Couture - sleeveless crossover blouse: I loved the pattern on this blouse and the style was nice. But the crossover portion was way too big for my chest and puffed out like a pelican pouch. Another bad fit.
* GGO: Roche Cowl Neck Jersey Dress: Nice dark blue knee-length dress made with sustainable bamboo in a comfortable jersey knit. It was warm and fit well, except for the cowl. Instead of making a nice sweep along my neckline and chest, it kept bending in half, flopping over instead of draping. I didn't like how this looked, so I didn't keep the dress.
Well, three strikes for StitchFix. I have cancelled my account with them and look forward to the more personalized, better curated efforts of CakeStyle.
August 31, 2012
August 26, 2012
July 2012 Eco-Emi Box
Review of the July 2012 Eco Emi box!
All products listed below are linked on their site.
Hugo Naturals: Lavendar Essential Mist - Soft and faint. There's no alcohol, so no sting or warp of scent. Lovely lavendar & herb mixture, fades very quickly. Nice for a brief refresher, but not a long term room or body spray.
Yogi Tea: Soothing Caramel Bedtime - Not as sweet as expected! Pleasant and aromatic. Not exactly a dessert tea, but definitely something to relax with.
Yogi Tea: Raspberry Passion Perfect Energy - A little weak for me; I would like the black tea flavor to be more pronounced. Overall it has a slightly tart taste.
Crystal Essence: Pomegranate Deoderant Towelettes - Smells nice, crisp & bright. But this isn't strong enough for my BO, even when using one entire towelette per pit.
DeVine: Lip Shimmer in Merlot - Nothing too extrodinary about this. Nice product in a pretty shade, but it doesn't stand out in anyway.
Biggs & Featherbelle: Tequila Bar Soap - Bright salty lime smell! Soap has texture like aged cheese, dense, with little air bubble pockmarks. Not much lather but left my skin clean, smooth & soft. A very nice product that even works well on my face!
i-Chill: Relaxation Drink Shot - I don't normally have problems falling asleep and I'm pretty relaxed most of the time, so I didn't try this yet. I'm going to keep it around for my next long flight, to see if it helps with jetlag.
Madhava: Agave Light Sweetener & Blonde Coconut Sugar - I don't use sugar or sweetners, except for baking. So I haven't used these packets. I'll keep them around, but it'll probably be a while before I can really try them out.
Natural Vitality: Calm plus Calcium, Organic Raspberry Lemon Flavor - All these vitamin & nutrient samples are getting annoying. I don't use supplements unless directed by a doctor. I just wasn't interested in trying this.
Seaweed Bath Company: Body Cream in Lavendar - The smell is supposed to be lavendar and I can detect a hint of that, but it's mainly a weird mossy moldy scent. It's like the lavendar is trying to cover old brine but doesn't quite do the trick. The overall result is really off-putting. This is a shame, because I love the cream itself. It's wonderfully thick but non-greasy, silky smooth without any oily residue. Good for my skin, but bad for my nose.
ThinkThin: Chocolate Dipped Mixed Nuts Crunch Bar - Yum! Nutty flavor, not too sweet, just a tad sticky, with a satisfying crunch. I would definitely buy more of these! Unfortunately, the coupon code which came with the sample didn't work on their website.
Hugo Naturals: Lavendar Essential Mist - Soft and faint. There's no alcohol, so no sting or warp of scent. Lovely lavendar & herb mixture, fades very quickly. Nice for a brief refresher, but not a long term room or body spray.
Yogi Tea: Soothing Caramel Bedtime - Not as sweet as expected! Pleasant and aromatic. Not exactly a dessert tea, but definitely something to relax with.
Yogi Tea: Raspberry Passion Perfect Energy - A little weak for me; I would like the black tea flavor to be more pronounced. Overall it has a slightly tart taste.
Crystal Essence: Pomegranate Deoderant Towelettes - Smells nice, crisp & bright. But this isn't strong enough for my BO, even when using one entire towelette per pit.
DeVine: Lip Shimmer in Merlot - Nothing too extrodinary about this. Nice product in a pretty shade, but it doesn't stand out in anyway.
Biggs & Featherbelle: Tequila Bar Soap - Bright salty lime smell! Soap has texture like aged cheese, dense, with little air bubble pockmarks. Not much lather but left my skin clean, smooth & soft. A very nice product that even works well on my face!
i-Chill: Relaxation Drink Shot - I don't normally have problems falling asleep and I'm pretty relaxed most of the time, so I didn't try this yet. I'm going to keep it around for my next long flight, to see if it helps with jetlag.
Madhava: Agave Light Sweetener & Blonde Coconut Sugar - I don't use sugar or sweetners, except for baking. So I haven't used these packets. I'll keep them around, but it'll probably be a while before I can really try them out.
Natural Vitality: Calm plus Calcium, Organic Raspberry Lemon Flavor - All these vitamin & nutrient samples are getting annoying. I don't use supplements unless directed by a doctor. I just wasn't interested in trying this.
Seaweed Bath Company: Body Cream in Lavendar - The smell is supposed to be lavendar and I can detect a hint of that, but it's mainly a weird mossy moldy scent. It's like the lavendar is trying to cover old brine but doesn't quite do the trick. The overall result is really off-putting. This is a shame, because I love the cream itself. It's wonderfully thick but non-greasy, silky smooth without any oily residue. Good for my skin, but bad for my nose.
ThinkThin: Chocolate Dipped Mixed Nuts Crunch Bar - Yum! Nutty flavor, not too sweet, just a tad sticky, with a satisfying crunch. I would definitely buy more of these! Unfortunately, the coupon code which came with the sample didn't work on their website.
August 25, 2012
Plans Are Afoot
Two years ago, I attended NY Comic Con as Liandra from Fallen Angel. It was super fun and I didn't go last year in costume, so the itch is needing to be scratched. It's a little late to be starting a costume (this year's NYCC is Oct 11th!) and the one I have planned is pretty complicated.
Last night I made some prototypes and so far so good. I'm not sure I can pull this off, but we'll see!
Last night I made some prototypes and so far so good. I'm not sure I can pull this off, but we'll see!
August 21, 2012
StitchFix #2
I gave StitchFix another chance and unfortunately they didn't hit home with this 2nd shipment.
* Jaloux - "Hilary" midi skirt: Beautiful bright cobalt blue pleated skirt. I would have kept this, except it was too small.
* Mysterium - pearl stud earrings: Even though I mentioned in my online profile that my ears are not pierced, they sent these anyway. Sigh.
* ZOA - tab sleeve henley tunic: I know this is an oversized style, but it just did not work on me. The loose fabric billowed at odd places, making me look unkept and shoddy.
* Trinity - 3/4 sleeve silk top: Another loose, flowy blouse that didn't work on me. It felt like I was wearing a poncho.
* Max & Cleo - cap sleeve sheath dress: Nice classic cocktail dress with pretty pleats on the skirt. But it was too small; I couldn't fit my shoulders into the top and it would not zip all the way up.
Aside from the huge mistake of sending earrings, the styles were more to my liking this time. But there were definite problems with the sizing. I would have kept the skirt & dress, if they had fit correctly. It seems they are moving in the right direction, so I'm giving them one more chance.
* Jaloux - "Hilary" midi skirt: Beautiful bright cobalt blue pleated skirt. I would have kept this, except it was too small.
* Mysterium - pearl stud earrings: Even though I mentioned in my online profile that my ears are not pierced, they sent these anyway. Sigh.
* ZOA - tab sleeve henley tunic: I know this is an oversized style, but it just did not work on me. The loose fabric billowed at odd places, making me look unkept and shoddy.
* Trinity - 3/4 sleeve silk top: Another loose, flowy blouse that didn't work on me. It felt like I was wearing a poncho.
* Max & Cleo - cap sleeve sheath dress: Nice classic cocktail dress with pretty pleats on the skirt. But it was too small; I couldn't fit my shoulders into the top and it would not zip all the way up.
Aside from the huge mistake of sending earrings, the styles were more to my liking this time. But there were definite problems with the sizing. I would have kept the skirt & dress, if they had fit correctly. It seems they are moving in the right direction, so I'm giving them one more chance.
August 20, 2012
Awesome Cookbook
This weekend we picked up this beast, compiled by the fine folks at America's Test Kitchen.
I really dig this cookbook. It concentrates on practical cooking and has full color illustrations of various techniques. I love how it offers basic recipes, then suggests variations. For example, there is a simple muffin recipe. This is followed by a list of neat options, like orange cranberry, lemon poppyseed, etc.
Another example: a basic pork chop saute, followed by a list of various pan sauces that work well with pork. We tried this last night with great success, making a delicious sage butter sauce.
Flipping through this cookbook is quite inspiring. Everything is laid out neatly, all the recipes focus on simple easy steps, with explanations for ingredients and test results from their kitchen. There are lots of unique ideas and handy tricks. By far the best cookbook I've ever encountered. We're looking forward to using lots of these recipes!
I really dig this cookbook. It concentrates on practical cooking and has full color illustrations of various techniques. I love how it offers basic recipes, then suggests variations. For example, there is a simple muffin recipe. This is followed by a list of neat options, like orange cranberry, lemon poppyseed, etc.
Another example: a basic pork chop saute, followed by a list of various pan sauces that work well with pork. We tried this last night with great success, making a delicious sage butter sauce.
Flipping through this cookbook is quite inspiring. Everything is laid out neatly, all the recipes focus on simple easy steps, with explanations for ingredients and test results from their kitchen. There are lots of unique ideas and handy tricks. By far the best cookbook I've ever encountered. We're looking forward to using lots of these recipes!
August 14, 2012
CakeStyle Box #2
My 2nd CakeStyle box! * 5 tops * 2 bottoms * 2 dresses * 2 jackets * 1 jewelry piece
Tracy Reese Convertible Chemise: The green/black print wasn't too bad, but the top half was super poofy and looked like a lumpy sack on me.
Tees by Tina Strap Camisole: Nice wardrobe staple, but too long for me and also not something I need at the moment.
Olive & Oak Chiffon Blouse: I liked this breezy, comfortable top, but there were some issues with the seams on the front panel. I think it was a manufacturing defect, so I didn't keep this one.
Cynthia Steffe "Loretta" Blouse: There's always room for a white blouse in my closet, but not this one. The frilly collar made me look like a court jester. Such a shame, since I loved the silky material and trendy cut.
Theory "Shinna" Blazer: Lightweight, fits well, and the color goes with everything. I actually found this blazer at my local Theory outlet and bought it there!
Black Halo "Murphy" Mini: Bold red dress! Beautiful bright color and super comfortable. However, the shoulders were bulky, too 80's power suit for me.
Elie Tahari "Christa" Dress: Elie Tahari is quickly becoming a favorite. Aside from being a gorgeous lilac color, this silk dress fit perfectly. Sophisticated and sweet, a total keeper for me!
Paige "Skyline" Ankle Peg Jeans: I don't own any colored jeans, so these were intriguing. The dark purple was a good choice, easy to pair with other colors but also stands out from the common blue. Unfortunately, the jeans were too tight, so I returned them.
Robert Rodriguez Blazer: Too large & loose for me. Plus, not a huge fan of the material. It was slippery and slightly fuzzy, somewhere between velvet and suede. The gold button accents were charming and overall it's well designed. Just not for me.
Earnest Sewn "Harlan" Cigarette Jean: Most comfortable jeans I have ever tried! Amazingly soft, lines at all the right places. The waist was a bit tight, so I sent this one back, but did ask them to send another size up if possible!
I forgot to take pictures of two other items:
Trina Turk "Lorenden" Cardigan: Here's a link to this one. When I tried it on, I felt like someone's grandmother. While the embellishments are nicely made, the style just didn't work for me.
House of Harlow Sunburst Pendant: Quite the statement piece! I actually liked this design, but it was huge and I usually don't wear giant pendants or goldtone accessories. However, it got me interested in House of Harlow jewelry. They have an edgy yet simple style which I find appealing.
This was a great follow-up to the first box. I asked for less jewelry & more tops, and they delivered! I love that there are complete outfits and I've been introduced to more interesting designers. I'm definitely excited about the next shipment!
Tracy Reese Convertible Chemise: The green/black print wasn't too bad, but the top half was super poofy and looked like a lumpy sack on me.
Tees by Tina Strap Camisole: Nice wardrobe staple, but too long for me and also not something I need at the moment.
Olive & Oak Chiffon Blouse: I liked this breezy, comfortable top, but there were some issues with the seams on the front panel. I think it was a manufacturing defect, so I didn't keep this one.
Cynthia Steffe "Loretta" Blouse: There's always room for a white blouse in my closet, but not this one. The frilly collar made me look like a court jester. Such a shame, since I loved the silky material and trendy cut.
Theory "Shinna" Blazer: Lightweight, fits well, and the color goes with everything. I actually found this blazer at my local Theory outlet and bought it there!
Black Halo "Murphy" Mini: Bold red dress! Beautiful bright color and super comfortable. However, the shoulders were bulky, too 80's power suit for me.
Elie Tahari "Christa" Dress: Elie Tahari is quickly becoming a favorite. Aside from being a gorgeous lilac color, this silk dress fit perfectly. Sophisticated and sweet, a total keeper for me!
Paige "Skyline" Ankle Peg Jeans: I don't own any colored jeans, so these were intriguing. The dark purple was a good choice, easy to pair with other colors but also stands out from the common blue. Unfortunately, the jeans were too tight, so I returned them.
Robert Rodriguez Blazer: Too large & loose for me. Plus, not a huge fan of the material. It was slippery and slightly fuzzy, somewhere between velvet and suede. The gold button accents were charming and overall it's well designed. Just not for me.
Earnest Sewn "Harlan" Cigarette Jean: Most comfortable jeans I have ever tried! Amazingly soft, lines at all the right places. The waist was a bit tight, so I sent this one back, but did ask them to send another size up if possible!
I forgot to take pictures of two other items:
Trina Turk "Lorenden" Cardigan: Here's a link to this one. When I tried it on, I felt like someone's grandmother. While the embellishments are nicely made, the style just didn't work for me.
House of Harlow Sunburst Pendant: Quite the statement piece! I actually liked this design, but it was huge and I usually don't wear giant pendants or goldtone accessories. However, it got me interested in House of Harlow jewelry. They have an edgy yet simple style which I find appealing.
This was a great follow-up to the first box. I asked for less jewelry & more tops, and they delivered! I love that there are complete outfits and I've been introduced to more interesting designers. I'm definitely excited about the next shipment!
August 10, 2012
Stitch Fix #1
My first StitchFix shipment arrived! Unfortunately, I didn't have time to take photos like with the first CakeStyle box. There are 5 pieces in each "Fix" and I know this isn't too interesting without pictures, but at least it gives an idea of what they sent:
* THML - cotton cropped top: Pretty peasant-style blouse with neckline crochet details. I almost bought this, but it was just a bit too sheer and girly.
* MM Couture - dress: Generic knee-length dress, not impressed by the design. Plus, the top half didn't fit me at all.
* Lovers + Friends - slit sleeve blouse: Love the deep cobalt blue color, but it totally made me feel like a pirate. I don't think the slit sleeve style is for me...
* BB Dakota - "Wren" dress in black: This is the only piece I kept. I usually don't like gauzy material, but this came with a detachable slip and had a cute 70s mod feel.
* Aryn K - cutout silk tank: I specified that I don't like yellow, but they sent this bright banana-hued confection anyway. Though the color was terrible on me, the style and material weren't bad.
I found the StitchFix service kind of disappointing. Even though I filled out a comprehensive survey when signing up, it seems they didn't pay much attention and just sent whatever was on hand. It's always fun opening a mystery box of clothes, but it's frustrating not liking most of the items.
I'm willing to give them another chance. But so far, I'm not impressed.
* THML - cotton cropped top: Pretty peasant-style blouse with neckline crochet details. I almost bought this, but it was just a bit too sheer and girly.
* MM Couture - dress: Generic knee-length dress, not impressed by the design. Plus, the top half didn't fit me at all.
* Lovers + Friends - slit sleeve blouse: Love the deep cobalt blue color, but it totally made me feel like a pirate. I don't think the slit sleeve style is for me...
* BB Dakota - "Wren" dress in black: This is the only piece I kept. I usually don't like gauzy material, but this came with a detachable slip and had a cute 70s mod feel.
* Aryn K - cutout silk tank: I specified that I don't like yellow, but they sent this bright banana-hued confection anyway. Though the color was terrible on me, the style and material weren't bad.
I found the StitchFix service kind of disappointing. Even though I filled out a comprehensive survey when signing up, it seems they didn't pay much attention and just sent whatever was on hand. It's always fun opening a mystery box of clothes, but it's frustrating not liking most of the items.
I'm willing to give them another chance. But so far, I'm not impressed.
August 2, 2012
June 2012 Eco-Emi Box
Review of the June 2012 Eco Emi box!
All products listed below are linked on their site.
Mighty Leaf: Calypso Mango Iced Tea - The sample was enough for 1/2 gallon of tasty tea, wonderful flavor & very refreshing.
Vitacare: Toothpaste in Acai - Full size tube! Not a fan of the flavor, though. It's sweet, which I dislike in toothpaste. I'll use this, but I'm not very fond of it.
Organic Indulgence: Orchard Pear & Fig Body Balm - Huge tube of this stuff! It smells amazing, bright pear with a nice figgy bite. It's a little too rich & thick for summer, but I think it will be wonderful for dry skin in the winter.
Eco Lips: Lip Tint - Rose Quartz color. Lovely sheen, though I'm not a lip tint person, so this one will probably be gifted.
Pyure Sweetener: Organic Stevia - Got a single packet. I don't use sugar except for baking and there isn't enough here to really judge the quality in that context. I'm bringing the packet to work, for people to use in their coffee.
Rainwater Botanicals: Jasmine Wind Deodorant - Loved this so much, I purchased a full size from Rainwater's Etsy shop. Non greasy, no aluminum or harsh chemicals, smells amazing, and best of all, it works! No hint of BO, even overnight or after walking outside in sweltering summer heat.
The next three items are sample packets meant to be added to water or juice as vitamin/nutritional supplements or meal substitutes. These just aren't my thing. I prefer to eat real food and couldn't bring myself to try these. So I can't give a fair opinion, but will list them here for completeness:
Amazing Grass: Amazing Meal in Pomegranate Mango (powdered nutrition mix)
Natural Vitality: Organic Life Vitamins (liquid multi-vitamin mix)
Natural Vitality: Energy 28 (liquid natural stimulant mix)
Mighty Leaf: Calypso Mango Iced Tea - The sample was enough for 1/2 gallon of tasty tea, wonderful flavor & very refreshing.
Vitacare: Toothpaste in Acai - Full size tube! Not a fan of the flavor, though. It's sweet, which I dislike in toothpaste. I'll use this, but I'm not very fond of it.
Organic Indulgence: Orchard Pear & Fig Body Balm - Huge tube of this stuff! It smells amazing, bright pear with a nice figgy bite. It's a little too rich & thick for summer, but I think it will be wonderful for dry skin in the winter.
Eco Lips: Lip Tint - Rose Quartz color. Lovely sheen, though I'm not a lip tint person, so this one will probably be gifted.
Pyure Sweetener: Organic Stevia - Got a single packet. I don't use sugar except for baking and there isn't enough here to really judge the quality in that context. I'm bringing the packet to work, for people to use in their coffee.
Rainwater Botanicals: Jasmine Wind Deodorant - Loved this so much, I purchased a full size from Rainwater's Etsy shop. Non greasy, no aluminum or harsh chemicals, smells amazing, and best of all, it works! No hint of BO, even overnight or after walking outside in sweltering summer heat.
The next three items are sample packets meant to be added to water or juice as vitamin/nutritional supplements or meal substitutes. These just aren't my thing. I prefer to eat real food and couldn't bring myself to try these. So I can't give a fair opinion, but will list them here for completeness:
Amazing Grass: Amazing Meal in Pomegranate Mango (powdered nutrition mix)
Natural Vitality: Organic Life Vitamins (liquid multi-vitamin mix)
Natural Vitality: Energy 28 (liquid natural stimulant mix)
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