CakeStyle Box #5

* 6 tops * 3 pants * 2 dresses * 1 jacket * 2 accessories

Some light spring styles in this box, starting with this cute outfit:

French Connection Floral Blouse: This is a prime example of why I love the CakeStyle service! If I had seen this shirt online or hanging off a rack, I would have ignored it. I normally don't like flower prints or pastels. But since this came in the box, I figured it was worth trying. Turns out, it's comfortable, flattering and the print is not too noisy. The colors actually work on me and I ended up keeping this shirt. Plus, I was introduced to a new brand. I've seen French Connection ads before, but this was my first experience with their clothes and I'm pretty pleased! Theory Valence Pants: Initially, I was skeptical about the rolled cuffs, but they actually don't look bad. I like the color and cut of these pants, even though they're a bit too casual for my office. You can't tell from the photo, but these were tight in the waist for me, so I didn't keep them.

French Connection Edelweiss T-Shirt: High quality fabric and good fit, but this pattern looks just a bit off on me.

Joie Sweater Top: I would need a boat to accessorize this top. Definitely not my style.

French Connection Sleeveless V-Neck: Really wanted to like this one. Silky soft material, lovely lavendar color. However, the puffy pleats in front actually are not sewn to the shirt, but hang loose and fall open while I'm moving, which looks rather bad. Conceptually a neat style, just did not work on me.

Theory "Betty" Sheath Dress: Generally I like Theory, but this dress does not fit me well. Shoulders and chest are way off, gives me an overall boxy shape. Trina Turk Sweater Top: Wasn't sure about this one until I tried it on. Lightweight, comfortable, perfect length and just loose enough to be carefree, but not sloppy. Trina Turk does it again!

A complete Theory outfit! Theory Gabe Blazer: Great around the shoulders, chest and waist. But look at those sleeves! Way too long for me. Theory Sorcha Top: The dusty rose is almost too close to skin color. This is a comfortable shirt, though it's a bit loose and baggy on me. The jacket hides that. It's a neutral piece that's good for layering, but not something I need. Theory "Julienna" Pants: These pants have a slight sateen shimmer that isn't captured in the photo. As with most pants, they're too long, but the waist and thighs fit well and the inner lining makes it very comfortable. I bought a pair of solid black pants in the last box, so skipped them in this round. Not pictured:

Elie Tahari "Emory" Dress: Too small for me. I couldn't even zip the darn thing! I don't think I would have kept it - it's this dress and the pattern isn't very appealing to me.

Theory Mauritius Navy Pants: The opposite problem here - these were too big! They have a more casual look and fit like loose khakis. The waist was fine, but the legs were too wide and had a parachute effect.

Printed Village Printed Scarf: HUGE scarf! Probably around 60 inches long, in a really awesome black/white geometric tribal pattern. I really wanted to keep this, but I don't wear such accessories often and couldn't justify owning something that would just look pretty in the closet.

Geranium Jewelry Ball Stud Earrings: They made a major mistake and sent these even though my ears are not pierced (and it explicitly states that in my profile). The earrings are quite pretty and prompted me to look up this brand online. I think I might buy some of their other products, based on the quality and design of the earrings. So it wasn't a complete waste!

CakeStyle Box #4

* 5 tops * 3 bottoms * 2 dresses * 8 accessories

There were lots of accessories this time!
House of Harlow Triangle Collar: I dig House of Harlow jewelry and this necklace was a keeper. Edgy yet sophisticated, and looks great under my many collared shirts.

Cara Wired Multi-Chain Necklace: Long thick streads of gold, not really my thing.

Cara Stone Wrapped Bracelets: A pretty blend of black wrapped in gold, but way overpriced.

Jewelmint Swan Cuff: Really interesting pattern, but too chunky and large for my wrist.

Cara Sunburst Headband: Cute sparkly flower. I don't wear headbands, so this was not for me.


Joie Aruna Tank: Cute tank, but not something I'd wear often. I think the cherry color is too bright and casual for work.

Trina Turk Madeleine Blouse: Really comfortable shirt in an awesome print that's fun but professional.

Trina Turk Kothari Pants: Yet again, Trina Turk hits the mark. I could live in these! Black pants are the building block of my work wardrobe, and I could definitely use another pair.


Attack of the stripes!

Joie Winberry Tunic Dress: This tunic had really thick soft fabric. The fit wasn't quite right, though. As you can see, it bulges at odd places. It does pair well with the Cara Chain Link Belt, a camel colored leather belt with gold links. I seriously considered keeping the belt, but decided most of my tunics look better with a black accent instead.

Joie Adelia Cardigan: Cute cardigan, 100% alpaca. Thin and light, yet also very warm and delightfully stretchy. It felt so cozy, but it's too casual for work and I couldn't justify buying it just to lounge around in.

Joie Peterson Shirt: The collar was way too deep on this shirt, though I love the dark navy color and accent stripe. This inspired me to shop for similar styles, just with a more conservative neckline. Trina Turk Bamboo Pencil Skirt: Love the color and styling on this skirt! The fabric was beautiful, a soft marled green grey, with deep green lining edged in lace. I really wanted this skirt, but it wasn't in the budget for this round. I was actually choosing between this and the Trina Turk pants, and decided I would wear the pants more often, so kept that instead. A couple items not pictured: Printed Village Scarf: Generic solid red scarf, nothing all that interesting. Citizens of Humanity Avedon Skinny Jeans: These did not fit me at all - I couldn't even get them all the way on. So no pictures, and definitely sending back!

Issa Jacquard Jersey Dress: I was so excited to have an Issa in my box! But unfortunately this wasn't meant for me. I was expecting one of her flowing elegant numbers, but it was this dress, which is more of a skater style. The fit was awkward around my chest and made my arms seem fat.

Tees by Tina Camisole: Yet another Tees by Tina piece which didn't fit at all. They need to stop sending these; nothing from this brand has worked on me.

Overall, this was a weaker shipment than the previous. Hopefully that's not a trend! I'm only keeping three pieces (though a couple were close calls). I'll be providing detailed feedback to my stylist and we'll see how the next one goes.

CakeStyle Box #3

* 5 tops * 3 bottoms * 1 dress * 1 jacket * 3 sweaters

If I had the budget, I would have kept almost everything in this box! The pieces were well coordinated, like they were all part of a singular collection.

Citizens of Humanity Jeans: Nice jeans, just too expensive for my taste.

Catherine Malandrino Wool Pants: Love these pants! So comfy and the dark green is great for autumn. I ended up buying it.

Trina Turk Noir Skirt: The perfect work skirt. Not too short, not too tight, easy to walk in, professional yet stylish. I kept this as well!

Shoshanna Genna Cardigan: I already have a black cardigan staple, so while this was a nice piece, it wasn't something I needed.

Elie Tahari Gabby Cardigan: I'm such a sucker for Elie Tahari. This cardigan was a lovely cobalt plum color, super soft and a keeper.

Trina Turk Rebecca Shell Top: Pretty grey pattern with purple/red flowers. Long length and nice frame. I really liked this top, but just didn't have room in my budget for it.
Trina Turk Multicolor Shell Top: Another stylish Trina Turk top. Really interesting banded print, definitely something my closet currently lacks. This was a keeper and paired well with the skirt.

Plenty by Tracy Reese Peasant Top: Awesome flowing top with a lovely fall leaf pattern. Loosely structured but also elegant. I kept this one and it works well with the dark green wool pants.

Plenty by Tracy Reese Scallop Jacquard Dress: This dress fit like a glove. The cut and size were perfect, but the print was totally weird on me. It made me look like I had black & white fish scales. I wish the pattern was different; if not for that, I would have bought the dress!

Trina Turk Miss V Sweater: Super cozy, soft lightweight grey sweater. I have plenty of v-neck sweaters and this design wasn't unique enough to justify purchasing.

Tees by Tina Camisole: I liked the fabric and construction of this cami, but it was waaay too long. The hem hit mid-thigh, making it difficult to properly tuck in under shirts.

Olive & Oak Contrast Back Shirt: Nice shirt, but I have better white blouses.

Nanette Lepore Squire Jacket: Absolutely beautiful dark green wool coat. So comfortable and warm and cute! Man, I wish this was within my budget, because I loved it! These boxes keep getting better! My stylist is making great choices and focusing on things that would appeal to me. She is especially good with fit and sizing, something I really appreciate because I'm so short and it's always a hassle finding clothes in my size. I was surprised that there were so many pieces from the same designer (Trina Turk) but since her style seems to suit me well, in the end, I don't mind. I kept quite a few pieces from this shipment and hope to get my next box in time for the winter season!

StitchFix #3

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.

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.

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!

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.

CakeStyle Arrives!

My first shipment included: * 3 tops * 3 bottoms * 2 dresses * 1 belt * 4 jewelry pieces

	Elie Tahari "Brenna" Top: Love! Ruffles aren't too crazy, colors interesting and soft. Professional but not too formal or stiff. I would keep this one, except I found the same top online at a substantial discount, so I bought it there instead. Chaiken "Jackie" Pants: Great fit. And the length is perfect -- this is so rare in pants, I almost bought these just for that! But unfortunately, the material is scratchy inside and made my legs itch. So sadly, not keeping this one. I also want to mention, there was a gold colored necklace by Marlyn Schiff with a sky blue pendant that I didn't get a picture of. It turned me off right away and I didn't even bother trying it on. The gold tone looked cheaply plated and the pendant was a bit tacky.
	Tracy Reese Embellished Shift: Beautiful! Amazing material and craftsmanship. I adore that deep shimmery green. Love the design and little details like the buttons at the shoulders. I really wanted this to work on me, but overall it felt loose and lumpy, I think something like this would look better on me if more fitted. Cara "Stella" Necklace: Nice necklace with mixed metal discs. It looks good doubled up too. I don't have any necklaces like this and its flexibility is appealing. I think it pretty much goes with anything! Geranium "Elizabeth" Link Bracelet: I'm amazed my stylist found bracelets that actually fit around my tiny wrists! But even though this one fit, I thought the design was too chunky and bulky.
Myne "Jude" Top: Well constructed top, love the interesting pattern. Soft breezy fabric that's work friendly, comfortable and has lots of breathing room without looking too bulky. The perfect summer office piece! Paige "Verdugo" Jeggings: I admit, these are the first jeggings I've ever tried. I'm not entirely convinced on the trend. These particular ones were way too long and the denim just didn't feel good so tight against my skin. Citizens of Humanity "Avedon" Skinny Jeans: Skinny jeans aren't normally my thing. I don't have a good picture of this one, but it fit very much like the jeggings. Too long and even if I hemmed the jeans, the shape of the thighs and calves would have looked weird on me. It just seems designed for a much taller person. I did think the skinny jeans were way more comfortable than the jeggings.
	Beth Bowley Kaleidoscope Top: Kaleidoscope is right! Was hesitant about the print at first, but it doesn't look bad on me. Love the blocked sleeves and loose frame. You can't see this in the photo, but this top has really large arm holes which I found extremely comfortable. And I was pleasantly surprised to find they added fabric along the edge of the arm holes, so your bra doesn't peek out. Such thoughtful design! Unfortunately, the colors are a bit too crazy for work, so I'm not keeping it. Cara Threaded Chain Bracelet: Another bracelet that actually fits my wrist! I like the fabric threaded throughout the links, but this is too bulky for me. It looks OK while I'm just standing there, but it's nearly impossible to operate a computer mouse or type effectively with that thing on.
Theory "Etiara" Dress: Yay, a "grown-up" LBD that I can wear to work, but also to happy hour! I really needed a closet staple like this. It's comfortable, versatile and you can't tell in the picture, but it has pockets! POCKETS, I tell you! It's modern yet classic, definitely something I'm keeping. Lodis "Olympus" Belt: I wasn't terribly impressed by this belt. It has an interesting silvery greenish shine and up close, there's a nice snake skin pattern. But it's a pretty generic accessory and not something I want. This was really fun and I liked most of the styles. I ended up keeping the Theory dress, Cara necklace and Myne top. Return shipping is free and easy, as they provide a pre-printed label and shipping box. I can see myself getting addicted to this service. They normally ship every 3 months, but I'm already hankering for another box!

Fashion Made Easy

For me, fashion has always been somewhat love/hate. I love the artistic parts: colors, shapes, texture, seeing how things fit together, how they transform a body. But I hate shopping.

Urmm. Let me elaborate. It's fun trying on clothes, putting together outfits, experimenting. But I hate dealing with crowds and changing booths, not being able to find my size, going through piles of crap to find good pieces, plus I simply don't have time for leisurely shopping anymore. Over the years, my casual clothes haven't changed much from jeans & t-shirts. My work clothes....well, let's just say I'm wearing the same pair of Express trousers from 8 years ago.

But there are some new services in the market which I think can help change that. I'm trying out two different companies which work from a similar model:

* CakeStyle: They ship you a box of clothes, especially selected to match your preferences. On average, there are 6 complete outfits with combined cost in the $2500~$3000 range. You have 10 days to try everything on. You only pay for items you keep. The rest, you ship back for free.

* StitchFix: For $20, they ship you a box of clothes selected per your tastes. There are 5 individual items, each one priced within a range you request. You have until the Monday after receipt of shipment to decide what you want. You pay for those items, with the $20 fee applied as a credit towards the purchase. The rest you ship back for free.

I don't know yet which will serve me better. I've signed up for both services and hopefully will be getting boxes of clothes delivered soon!