Evereve Trendsend Review: A Subscription Box for Moms

I'm always on the lookout for new subscription boxes and was really excited to find an online personal styling service dedicated to moms, Trendsend by Evereve. If you are anything like me, time is limited when it comes to shopping for clothes, and things don't fit like they used to. Even if they do, they went out of style years ago. My clothing needs have changed, too. Trendend's response? "Take care of your family, we'll take care of your fashion." Brilliant.

In browsing the Evereve website, I was very impressed by the brands, fit and style of the clothes. It took me about 10 minutes to fill out a very detailed style profile and fill out my special requests. I pinned several of my favorite Evereve pieces and linked my Pinterest style board to my profile and requested a box!

Trendsend promised a 14 day turnaround and they delivered! My box arrived 11 days later via UPS. The service is free, no styling fees or shipping charges. What more could a mom ask for?

I have to admit I peeked at what I would be getting when I received my shipping email. If you are wondering how to do that, just click on the "leave feedback" link. I was intrigued by the pieces they'd chosen! I don't normally peek, but I knew I'd be busy when the box arrived (as it came on the same day as half a dozen other things) so I wanted to wrap my head around it.

When the box came, I quickly unwrapped it to find all of the clothes neatly wrapped in tissue paper, held together by stickers with cute little sayings. The box also included an invoice, a letter from my personal shopper with styling tips, a shipping envelope and a prepaid USPS sticker.

I was so excited to see some items for fall! Now if the weather would just cooperate. It was around 100 degrees when I tried these on, but I didn't care. I felt like fall Barbie playing fashion show!

This was my favorite outfit out of the box, both off and on. Trendsend calls this top Under Skies Tab Sleeve Plaid Top or Plaid Button Down Top in red/navy.

The tag read Skies are Blue, one of my favorite brands! $58 seems reasonable, but I do occasionally have time to shop and just picked up a similar shirt at Costco for $12. This one definitely has more finesse, but I decided I can only do so much plaid. Here the Costco version, which came in several colors. It has more of a western feel, snap buttons and such.

The jeans are Kut from the Kloth and were described as straight leg jeans on the invoice, but in reality they are the Dianna Skinnies and are just that. Therefore they are the exact opposite of what I asked for. Does any retailer (besides Stitch Fix) carry anything but skinnies anymore? I may have tolerated them, as they look great with boots under long tops, however I looked (and felt) like I'd just finished baking in the oven. I'm wearing them in most of these pictures.

This next top is the Braeve Charcoal Tunic or Washed Ashore Tunic for $58. It is really thick, and the hem has a raw edge which I like.

I love everything about this top, but it just doesn't love me back. The scoop neck and oversized fit didn't work well with my shape.

The next top had similar issues, and was even more unflattering because the fabric was very thin and unforgiving.

I genuinely dislike this hi lo trend. I don't need mud flaps. The color was beautiful though on this Free People Ventura Thermal. But $68? No.

This trench had great potential. It's the Ellison Oversize Trench or Holden in pebble for $78. Turns out pebble isn't my color, and I JUST bought another trench. The one size fits all didn't work out too well for me on this one anyway.

The sleeve looked much better tabbed, but were tight (and I have narrow arms).

I didn't think the drape was very flattering either. But this must be working out for everyone else, because Evereve called it a Best Seller.

I thought these Lysse Center Seam Ponte Leggings for $78 and the Peyton Jensen Cambridge Boyfriend Cardy for $48 were the last 2 items in the box. Did I mention I was really hot and received half a dozen other things that needed photographed? I was getting a bit delirious and threw these on haphazardly with this less than desirable surprise top from Golden Tote. I'm sorry.

I genuinely loved the space dye and coziness of the fabric on the sweater, but it felt shapeless. Still, I actually kind of regret sending it back. It's very on trend and would probably go with everything.

I desperately wanted to keep the leggings but just couldn't justify another pair - so similar to what I already have - for that price. Besides, Stitch Fix just started carrying these <3

Turns out I missed a shirt in the bottom of the box. Another plaid shirt, from Lovestitch, the vintage wash plaid shirt for $39.99 on sale. It was really warm. And a tad tight. Love the material and pattern though! Wish they'd had the size up to swap.

So I didn't keep anything, which is weird because everything pretty much fit. I think it was just bad timing with the hot weather, half dozen other things, and new job stress. I am REALLY impressed with what they picked out for me on the very first go round. I would definitely do this again in the future! At the very least, I'll shop the sale section of the Evereve store.

For your knowledge, no discounts were offered toward multiple purchases. And as far as I can tell, there is no referral system in place at this time. I hope they offer both in the near future!

If you'd like to try Trendsend, or just shop Evereve, I'd love it if you used my affiliate link:

Free Shipping on orders $50+

While I will receive a small commission for referrals, clearly my opinions are all my own. If you do try, be sure to let me know what you think!

Happy Trendsending!

Dailylook Elite Box Review #3: Free Trial Offer

I just received my 3rd and final box from Dailylook Elite.

Click to read about my 1st and 2nd boxes.

Even though I didn't keep anything from my first 2 shipments,

I decided to go ahead with the 3rd box, given the styling fee was waived for the 3 month free trial offer. I had nothing to lose (except maybe all the time I spent taking pictures & blogging about it).

If you're new to the idea, basically Dailylook Elite is an styling service similar to Stitch Fix or Golden Tote. I plan to put together a graphic soon comparing and contrasting these various services.

For now, here are a few differences. In my humble opinion, Dailylook is a bit edgier than it's competitors, appealing to a younger audience, and likely professionals with more leeway as to what they can wear in the office. They do carry a ton of feminine, boho and classic pieces, but often with a bit more bare skin.

You have the opportunity as a Dailylook Elite box subscriber to shop the site

with free shipping both ways.

Last, you have the opportunity to add items from their collections to your online "closet"

and request specific items in your box.

Here's what came in this May's box.

Before I even took the clothes out of the bags, I was already a thousand times more excited about this box than the 1st and 2nd. Patterns, colors, and a purse!

I wasn't truly caught of guard, because 1, I'd already peeked online

(just click the link from the email about the box leaving the warehouse) 

and 2, most of the items were from my "closet", items I'd picked out.

I'm sort of okay with having complete control over what they send. But then it doesn't feel like a styling service. Still, I liked the clothes MUCH more this way.

First thing I tried on was the Pleated A-Line Midi Dress.

As you may recall if you follow, I got this dress last month in a small and it was so

tight I had a hard time getting out of it. It appears Dailylook is not a fan of functional zippers.

This month my stylist decided to send me the medium.

I like the dress, and my daughter said it looked good.

But I think I'm uncomfortable having so much exposed skin in the neckline and arms.

I know I could wear a cardigan with it, but it's just a plain old black dress.

For $65 I think I could do better.

Next I tried on Zippered Woven Shift Dress in Royal Blue.

I toiled over this dress all weekend before deciding to send it back.

Unfortunately, it was too short to wear without tights (my shapewear was showing)

and it's too hot here to wear tights and boots now.

I really, really wanted to need it, because it was only $30.

But it was like 90 degrees when I tried it on, and it's pretty thick.

Thinner wouldn't have necessarily been the answer, as proven by the next dress.
I think the name says it all, "Brick House Bodycon Dress" in ivory.

To the lady who felt inclined to write a rude comment on my last Dailylook review,
I'm giving you another opportunity here.
And I'd deserve it, because I actually added this atrocity to my "closet."

Cute pattern though.

(Sigh) The next item I dreadfully regret to share having sent back

is the Fenner Top from Jack by BB Dakota.

Why, Dailylook, why? Why must I love this shirt so much but have no use for it?
The only thing I could get it to work with was this pencil skirt.

 

It's so long, ughh. I wish it were shorter so it would work with jeans.

But it just wouldn't, and I don't have $65 to spend on stuff I can't wear everyday.

I REALLY loved the color, and I REALLY loved the fabric.

I already regret sending it back.

It was downhill from there.

Just no.

This wrinkled mess is called the Faux Wrap Woven Blouse in sky blue.

And no, I didn't put it in my closet.

It is budget friendly, just $30.

Pears, beware. This style doesn't work. It just adds to the hips.

My stylist probably sent it because I did add this to my closet.

I wanted to give another Naked Zebra blouse a try, as I liked the one from my last box.

It seems broader in the shoulders, and between that and the wrap,

I thought it might create more of an hourglass shape. But it was just all wrong for me.

Part of the problem is that the sizing is a little off.

Both the blue and the black were mediums and felt too large.

I have "size up if unsure" in my notes, but I feel like my stylist

really isn't considering the style at all. She sent a small in the

Fenner top which is more fitted, and a medium in these looser styles.

I have a feeling it just has to do with what's in stock.

But if you want to sell me clothes they have to fit.

I did like that it was a sheer, lightweight material because I always wear a camisole,

and that way I could stay cool on hot days.

I'd say if it were a small I might have kept it,

but again I don't find it pear flattering. And for $50, it's got to be right on.

This one would have been nice for the same reason, lightweight and great with a camisole.

But she sent a medium, again. And the color just washed me out.

I would have thrown on some jeans with it to try as an alternate look,

but the natives were getting restless.

By the way, the skirt is one of my all time favorites from Loft, years ago.

I tried to keep things civil by including some "friends" in the photoshoot.

Here's a close up of the material.

I didn't take many Tres chic photos of the bag because I didn't want to fully unwrap it

because I had no intention of keeping it.

It was in my closet, and I loved the size (not to big, not to small)

but vegan = stinky.

For reference, it was $70. Not bad, but not that good when I consider

that I've seen this brand at Marshall's for half of that.

I think if I'd received this box a year ago, when I was dressing up 3 days a week

for work and surrounded by my super fashionable Dietitian friends, I might have kept half of it.

In fact, Dailylook did offer me a coupon this time around.

But I don't want to be that weird Mom standing by the school bus who's always ridiculously overdressed to pick up her kid from Kindergarten, or the frumpy Mom who settled on clothes that hid her tummy.

But maybe you see a gem here, need more clothes for work, or want to try Dailylook's edgier items.

In that case, I do have a referral link, should you decide to give it a go.

http://fbuy.me/cmUyq

Keep in mind, you don't have to subscribe to Dailylook Elite Box to buy the clothes.

But as a subscribers, they will ship for free, with free returns.

Love it? Hate it? Leave a comment below.

I really appreciate your feedback, both here and in our Facebook groups.

Help me decide if I should try it again, without the free trial,

or put Dailylook Elite on hold.

While You Were Sleeping: Stitch Fix Review #2 February 2015

One of my favorite things about Stitch Fix is trying on clothes in the privacy of my own home. I tried this fix on while the baby took a nap nearby.

For those of you just joining me, Stitch Fix is an online clothing subscription box. You simply create a profile of your sizes and style preferences, write a note for your personal stylist, and schedule a date to receive your first fix. They send you 5 surprise items, you keep what you love and mail the rest back. The cost is $20 per box, but if you decide to keep an item this goes toward it. Shipping is free both ways. You can select the type of items you want to receive, such as tops, pants, purses, etc.

My first fix was so great I kept everything, which qualified my order for 25% off the grand total. You can read about it here.

I receive a little store credit if you click here:
https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/melanierhoades?sod=w&som=c

For my second fix I decided to be a little more adventurous. I scoured the web looking for cute clothes and pinned several to my pinterest board. I shared it with my stylist and I could tell she had thoughtfully considered it. You can view my board here.

Now for the reveal, and this time I took pictures of myself wearing the clothes. Be kind!

Renee C. Top & Mystree Cardigan

Renee C
Tucker Split Back Blouse $54
Size Just right
Price Just right
Style Like it
Fit/Cut Love it
Comments: Almost too short. Color slightly off. Odd to find polyester that wrinkles. I'm afraid to wash it. Can't figure out what to wear it with except ponte dress pants. Too shiny/dressy.

Back Renee C Blouse

Renee C material

Mystree Cardigan Close Up

Mystree
Esperanza Open Stitch Cardigan $68
Size Just right
Price Too high
Style Just ok
Fit/Cut Like it
Comments: Wish it were more navy or gray. Wish it had pockets. Was see through, cold. Hard to stuff sleeves in and pair. Crochet made me feel old. Flare and shape was great. Too fragile to wear with kids.

Liverpool Jeans

Liverpool
Mira Skinny Jean $78
Size Just right
Price Too high
Style Just ok
Fit/Cut Hate it
Comments: Had a hole. Fit but overemphasized my thighs. Too thick to wear as leggings. I have to cover my butt. Color odd. 

Liverpool Jeans Close Up

Daniel Rainn Tunic

Daniel Rainn

Bilson Pleat Detail Tunic $74
Size Just right
Price Too high
Style Just ok
Fit/Cut Like it
Comments: I can't wear pale colors, except gray. Pleats weren't flattering, ended at baby bump. Made me feel old. The material is good. Had the casual comfy feeling I want. Please try similar again.

Daniel Rainn Dress

Daniel Rainn
Aretha Abstract Print Dress $108
Size Too Big
Price Too high
Style Like it
Fit/Cut Just ok
Comments: I realize I more or less asked for this, but it didn't work on my pear shape. I didn't like the small patter or color. Too formal.

Daniel Rainn Dress Material

Other comments: I like navy, gray and black. I love tunics. I love open cardigans but they have to fit over clothes. I need mostly casual clothes, for layering. My clothes need to be practical, sturdy, was easy. I'm more likely to keep items under $50.

I only kept the Renee C blouse, but it was more a budget issue than anything else. I will definitely do Stitch Fix again soon. I really love my stylist (Thanks Traci!)

If you decide to try Stitch Fix I'd love to hear about it!

Thanks for sleeping baby!

Meet the Artist and Giveaway: Kimberly from Honizukle

It's Giveaway Time!

Ya'll know I love me some letterpress.

I was SO excited when Kimberly over at Honizukle agreed to sponsor a giveaway!

One lucky winner will receive 2 sets of absolutely gorgeous 

handmade mini letterpress cards from Honizukle!

Buy it here

I can't tell you how in love I am with Kimberly's work.

When she showed me her latest collection, I thought it was so beautiful I just had to pin them.

Buy them here

Let me just tell you, the cards are even more beautiful in hand.

The stationery is thick and luxurious. The impressions are rich and precise.

The colors are modern and vibrant. The designs are one-of-a-kind.

Let's learn more about the talented and lovely Kimberly who made this all possible:

Q: Tell us a little about yourself.


A: A little about myself… well, it's hard to describe myself. I'm very driven. Anything creative inspires me and there's nothing artistic that I don't like to do or want to try my hand at. Of course, I have to narrow it down and concentrate on something to be any good at it. I love designing and working on the press. When I'm not working I'm spending time with my apprentice in the making, my two year old son, Jack. We have fun together and he and my husband inspire a lot of my work.



Q: How did you get started doing letterpress?


A: I've always loved stationery. Even before I came to the US. It was something my sister and I used to collect and really enjoy. I don't remember exactly when I first laid eyes on a letterpressed card but once I saw what could be done I knew I had to do it. My husband was kind enough to allow me to invest in my own press and I took an intensive workshop in Brooklyn that really cemented my love for it. 



Buy it here

Q: Do you sell your products anywhere besides Etsy? How does it compare?


A: I don't yet. I've sold through my own site but I'm redoing it at the moment so I've only been selling through Etsy. I will hopefully be in a few shops soon and that's exciting but Etsy is a great marketplace. The kind of people that appreciate handmade are already going to Etsy to find things, so you already have the clients you're looking for. Etsy also puts so much work into their marketing and that's work they do for you. Each listing is like a little ad of your own. I think Etsy is a great place to sell and I don't think I'd ever stop selling there.



Buy it here

Q: What is your most popular item?


A: It's hard to say. I design new items for holidays so there are definite favorites during those times but I'd have to say what I sell the most are personalized sets. There's something great about getting or giving personalized stationery and it shows in the amount of sets I sell.

Buy it here



Q: What inspired your new collection?


A: My new collection is all Spring. I picked a palette I love and went with it. I was also very inspired by the Pearl Lettra stock I had acquired. It has a very creamy feel because of the color and that just made me want to do soft pastels and of course sweet designs. I'd say a lot of it was inspired by Mother's Day and my own mother actually. She loves flowers and used to draw them all the time. We're far away so I think about her a lot, this collection could be a subconscious ode to her too.



Buy it here

Q: Where do you see yourself/your shop in 3 years?


A: In three years I hope to be in stores. I'd really like to enter a store and see my cards on a counter. I know there would be a lot of satisfaction in that. I also hope to acquire another press, specifically a Vandercook. I have big ideas and I'd love to expand into other products and so I'd need a bigger press. I'd keep Charlotte of course but I'd love my studio to grow.



Q: Any advice for new shop owners on Etsy?


A: Stay on top of your Shop Stats. See what's bringing people in. If you have a product that you can tailor (like cards) pay close attention to the key words people are looking for and make a product that fills that need. Make sure to renew listings and to keep making new products to keep your shop fresh.

Buy it here



Q: Just for fun, what is the last thing you bought yourself on Etsy? 

A: The last thing I got from Etsy was the cutest little apron. I saw it and knew it would be perfect for me to print with. Indeed, I've printed with it already and it's fantastic, no more searching for my tools all over the place. :)

ATTENTION SHOPPERS!!! COUPON ALERT!!

Kimberly is offering my readers an exclusive coupon code to Honizukle:

Use MT2012 for 10% off your entire purchase 

(excluding wedding/custom orders).

Buy it here

Are you ready to win some funtabulous stuff from Honizukle?
Thought so :)

How to Enter the Giveaway:

1. Follow this blog (Mandatory)

and leave a comment here saying you did.

2. Add Honizukle to your circle or Favorite Shops on Etsy

and leave a separate comment here saying you did.

3. Leave a comment about your favorite design(s) from Honizukle.

Best of Luck!

Make sure to bookmark my giveaways page if you haven't already, 

and READ THE FINE PRINT

Fine print:

Only 3 entries per household please

Giveaway ends June 15th at midnight PST

Winner will be chosen by random.org

Entries will be validated

Winner will be announced here

Winner will have 3 days to contact me, 

after which a new winner will be chosen

Must be 18 years of age or older to enter

Otherwise open to everyone!