Showing posts with label Skies are Blue. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Skies are Blue. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 24, 2017

Stitch Fix Brands for Less

As I sit here writing this post about finding Stitch Fix Brands for Less I am thinking about my Stitch Fix journey. From discovering subscription box services to becoming a Stitch Fix addict (to the point of working as a Stitch Fix Stylist) to giving up Stitch Fix altogether (at least, I tell myself I have).

When I sit down to write, I do it with you, the reader in mind. So, I'm not going to sit here and tell you Stitch Fix is everything to everyone.

That doesn't mean I'm no longer recommending it. On the contrary, I owe much of my success as a jewelry stylist to Stitch Fix. And, in my humble opinion, it's still the best subscription box out there for finding modern styles to update your wardrobe. If you want to get out of a styling rut, try new things and get happy mail, this is the box for you. If you haven't tried it, you really should. In short, they send you 5 pieces of clothing and/or accessories (you fill out a profile with your sizes and preferences) tailored to you and keep what you like. Return what you don't, all for a low styling fee of $20. If you keep anything, the styling fees goes toward the price. I kept all 5 pieces in my first box and enjoyed an additional 25% off. If you decide to give it a go I hope you'll use my affiliate link.

I'm guessing, though, if you're reading this blog post it's because you've already tried Stitch Fix. Maybe, like me, you're looking for a place to buy more pieces from the brands you came to know and love through Stitch Fix. If this is the case, you're in luck! I've found a ton of places to shop Stitch Fix Brands online. 

I'm guessing this isn't news to you pros, but those that are new to this will appreciate the ability to find pieces by brand name, enjoy free shipping and returns for prime members, and the widest selection of anyone by far. You'll find Kut from the Kloth, Level 99, Liverpool, and Urban Expressions, to name just a few (follow my affiliate links to actual items I've seen from Stitch Fix).

The ever popular Diana jeans from Kut from the Kloth can be found on Amazon for a steal. I have a few pairs of the corduroy in this style, a rare 98% cotton 2% spandex blend. It can be a little tricky finding the exact styles you receive from Stitch Fix. For instance, Stitch Fix calls the corduroy "Jonathan" but to KFTK they are just another pair of Diana. Just try looking at the labels inside your favorite pieces for easy search.


T.J.Maxx

If you've ever shopped T.J.Maxx or Marshall's in person you may have come across the occasional top or pair of jeans from your favorite Stitch Fix brands, but it's so much easier to shop online. Unlike Amazon, you can't search by brand. They keep their prices at rock bottom by avoiding search by brand, and it's well worth the effort. I purchased a pair of Yosi Samra ballet flats from this site for $30 (link below to an exact pair Stitch Fix carries).
I see Adrianna Papell, Leota and Maggy London dresses Stitch Fix carries on this site all the time. Shipping is inexpensive (free over a certain amount) and returns can be made at local stores.

Boutiques

This one gets a little trickier, but the reward is great. Whenever possible, I try to support small business. My favorites that carry Stitch Fix brands are:

Tag 

Brands: Mystree, RD Style, Liverpool, Gilli
Perks: Free Shipping, returns with store credit, and an incredible Facebook community. If you love the mystery of Stitch Fix, you'll also occasionally see mystery boxes sold on this website. I bought a Mystree Mystery Box recently and received 3 amazing tops/sweaters for just $85 shipped. This is the only boutique of my 3 favorites that has a website you can shop outside of Facebook. I prefer the FB group, though, because you can see the pieces on real people and ask sizing questions.

This isn't from a Stitch Fix brand (it's 12pm by Mon Ami), but it reminds me so much of Pins I saw over and over as a stylist. And it's only $25! I also appreciate a larger variety of casual/knits from Tag than I ever received from Stitch Fix.



Off the Hanger 

Brands: Kut from the Kloth, Daniel Rainn, Renee C, Collective Concepts
Perks: Exact pieces Stitch Fix carries, accessories & shoes, too. $5 flat rate for shipping up to $75, free after. This is my favorite place to look for additional pairs of jeans in a fit I know and love, or look for Stitch Fix pieces I sent back because I couldn't afford them at the time. Sometimes Stitch Fix can't accommodate size exchanges, this is another reason I shop OTH.

I just bought a pleather jacket from Off the Hanger by RD Style. I got so many compliments the first time I wore it, including one from my 14 year old. I think you need one of these.

 

I'm wearing the Chloe + Isabel Souviens Collar Necklace with it, a match made in heaven.

The Style Palette

Brands: Skies are Blue, Gilli, Le Lis, THML
Perks: Free shipping and returns. Look-a-like pieces for a fraction of the price. Great place to buy cardigans. If you do Golden Tote, there are a ton of brands you see in their mystery totes, too.


If you are looking outside of Stitch Fix for variety, boutiques are a great way to find new brands, too. I just got this top by Kori America from The Style Palette and it's thick and soft. Great quality and for $32 shipped!

You'll see a good variety of boho, edgy, classic, romantic, athleisure, and glam options on all of these sites. They might lean a little toward boho, but you know I don't mind.

Perhaps you've found some alternative shopping sites yourself, I'd love it if you shared a link in the comments below. I'm almost certain I found these favorites by suggestion. Shopping is always better with friends!

Happy Shopping!

This post contains Amazon affiliate links. I love Amazon Prime and think you will, too!




Saturday, July 2, 2016

Stitch Fix Review Summer 2016: Laid Back Casual Chic Style

Stitch Fix and I have a long, complicated relationship. Initially, it was that new thing I just had to try and an attempt at replacing my old wardrobe in the transition from working Mom to stay-at-home-mom of 4. Then, crazy me, I took a job as a stylist with them. Whew! That was crazy.

Now, we are like old friends, occasionally getting together and picking right back up where we left off. I couldn't resist getting back in the swing when I got the infamous "The Styling Fee is On Us" email. So I updated my profile, threw in a few requests, and here's what the stylist picked out for #19.

First up, the classic 41Hawthorn Breyson Pleated Tab-Sleeved Blouse in Coral.

     

I get this choice. I have a long torso and like a straight fit, and the $37 price tag is perfect for my budget. #1 asked me if I liked this one, and when I said "the color makes me feel like a lobster", she frowned and said "ahhh, it looks good on you." I always love this color on the hanger, but feel like it washes me out. But a teenager told me it looks good, so...what's an old lady to do? #4 suggested baseball, but I was wearing my white Loft jeans, so....

I tried on the Skies are Blue Timone Knit Tank in Jewel Tone Purple, $48.


One of the things I made sure to do when I updated my profile this time was request shoulder coverage, so this choice was a little perplexing at first. But, they do know I'm a sucker for layering (I've bought several cardis) so I'm thinking my request for jewel tones and this specific brand won out.


I couldn't resist putting on my favorite new hat from my Chloe + Isabel Boutique, the Wide-Brimmed Summer Straw Hat. Next thing you know, I'm layering, again. #1 thinks I've put too many patterns together. Chevron and Aztec don't go together? Obviously, I don't care.


I am officially addicted to Chloe + Isabel jewelry now so you may have noticed my Capri Convertible Necklace above, which I converted to a single layer for this look.



I forgot to mention they also sent me a pair of Kut From The Kloth Kate Boyfriend jeans ($88), which I was wearing with the Skies are Blue Timone and kept on for the next outfit. I scratched my head a bit when I saw them headed my way (iPhone app cheat this time around). But I did say I liked this brand. It's just, I already got this exact style and size and returned it. They were longer this time, which helped. I like them, but I just bought a few used pair at 1/3 the price.

Here they are with the Papermoon Neptune Racerback Top in Cobalt, $38.


Excuse the expression, I just couldn't even pretend to be comfortable in this piece. I hate baring my shoulders and the racerback put me over the edge. I felt much more comfortable with the Market & Spruce Alan French Terry Asymmetrical Zip Cardigan (navy, $37) over.


This type of outfit is definitely me. But I feel like I already own it. I have several boho print, polyester tops and solid cardigans. So the wow factor was missing here.

I do love the funky, asymmetrical detail and the color is great for my skin tone. And I'm always looking for an excuse to put on my Capri Pendant Necklace. The length is adjustable and it looks great over so many necklines, and I love how it looks above the cardigan.


So, I guess you could say I have no idea what I'll do! For those of you who are new, they usually charge a $20 styling fee when the box ships which they credit back if you keep something. It's not much, but it usually motivates me to keep something. But this time they waived the fee!

The absolute best thing about subscription box shopping is taking your time deciding what to keep. I can try it all on again tomorrow, mix and match pieces with other clothes I have (and jewelry!), and take my time getting opinions from friends and family. And when I've made up my mind, I'll send the rest back in my mailbox!

Sound like something you might like to try? I'd love it if you followed my affiliate link when you head over and check things out.


If you saw a piece of jewelry you just have to have, I'd love it if you visited my shop: modernjewelry.co, even better if you shoot me an email so I can alert you to sales and promotions! moderntypography@aol.com

Thanks for taking the time to look, I hope you found a few pieces to Pin for your stylist, and if you're trying this service for the first time, you love it just as much as I do!

Happy Fixin'

Tuesday, March 8, 2016

Spring Forward: Stitch Fix Review and Gift Card Giveaway!

With an early Easter and spring upon us I am anxiously awaiting the return of warm weather! I'm so glad my Stitch Fix arrived with a few pieces that will be just perfect for the transition to spring. I did a little early spring cleaning and made room for a few new favorites. I was happy to find a few keepers!

In addition to my usual Stitch Fix review, I thought I'd try something new and giveaway a $20 Stitch Fix gift card! More on that later.

First, I want to show you the fabulous pieces from my spring Stitch Fix. I have a feeling you'll be pinning a few! And, there just might be a surprise in the box. Can you guess what's hiding behind the usual tops and jeans?


No, it's not #3. I mean, that is #3, but he didn't come in the box. It's shoes! That fun little Stitch Fix bag contains one lovely pair of shoes! In case you haven't heard, Stitch Fix is now carrying a wide assortment of styles.


They just happened to be one of my favorite shoe styles, ballet flats. For a mom on the go, these are a must-have. I love prints like these with a bit of shimmer to add a hint of glam to basic assembles. I see a lot of other animal prints out there like cheetah and leopard print. The snake print is a nice, unexpected addition. Beige, brown and grey are great neutrals; I suspect they'd go with everything, both dressy and casual. And, they fold up so you can throw them in your bag for a quick shoe change.


Stitch Fix sent me a size 10 where I normally wear a 9.5 so I'm assuming these only come in whole sizes. I have wide feet so 10s often work out for me, and ballet flats are a great choice. Unfortunately, these were too long for me. Bummer! I loved these instantly. Perhaps I'll request a 9 in my next box.

Be sure and head over and update your style profile with your shoe size if you haven't already! And, of course, schedule a Fix and request your favorite shoe styles. If you'd like to request this pair, Stitch Fix calls them Yosi Samra Snake Print Flats, $75.

I can't decide which piece to show you next, I love so many! I have a feeling, this one is going to be a reader favorite, the Skies are Blue Caine Fringe Open Cardigan, $54.


I love this brand! It's always on trend, each piece is well made and true to size, and the prices are just right. I was happy to see this in my box because I've been eyeing it.

I broke out my white jeans and borrowed a minty pastel top and booties from #1 for pictures.

     

This quote came to mind while shooting this Fix. It was crazy windy, with comedic timing given my recent haircut and decision to stop straightening my hair. I'm not quite convinced that all good things are wild and free.



I also tried the cardigan with the 3rd item in my box, the Kut From The Kloth Cai Bootcut Jeans, $88.

     

I can't stop thinking about these jeans! Lately, I feel like Loft jeans are too stretchy and just slip off, and these fit really well overall. But, given I rarely wear boots under jeans (these are #1s), the 33 inch inseam is just too long for me. 

Here's another shot. I love the wash. It's hard to send back a pair of jeans a teenager insists are perfect....


These have a very similar fit to the Dear John Marson Wide Leg Trouser, which I also love, but with an extra inch or 2.

Let's move on, because, well, this. 


I would have kept this, even if I had to use it as a hand towel. I'm a sucker for embroidery, and love wearing navy. I normally hate pink, but it just works here. It's the THML Longoria Embroidery Top, $58.

Here's a close-up of the gorgeous detail. 


It reminds me of the THML Christy Embroidered Top I got in August that didn't quite work out due to fit. This structured short sleeve is so much more flattering on my round shoulders. I'm always happy to find new things to wear with my white jeans, too.

The last item in my box was the one I thought I would like the most, but the fit didn't quite work out.


It's the RD Style Anso Mixed Material Knit Top, $58. I pictured myself wearing it with mint skinnies (next box?) or grey leggings.

But.... the fit was so off on me I decided to show it to you on #1 instead.


Clearly this isn't working on her either. She's almost as tall as I am (5'6") and about the same size. I think this top may work better for petites, it just needs more length in the torso. Well, my wallet will be happy, because if this had fit right I would have kept it for sure.

I'm really excited about my new embroidered top and cardigan! I already ran out and bought a basic white Loft t-shirt to wear with the cardi (Embroidered Vintage Soft Tee).


I have plenty of things that go with it, but I had a $15 Loft birthday coupon burning a hole in my pocket! Tees are on sale for $20 bucks so I picked up 2. They have a gazillion colors online, in petites, too.


Stitch Fix $20 Gift Card Giveaway


Thank you for tolerating this blog post while waiting for the Stitch Fix Gift Card Giveaway! Hopefully, your patience will pay off. I like to keep giveaways light and fun, no rafflecopter or forced social media sharing (although it's much appreciated). Just do these 2 things:

1. Check out Stitch Fix.

There is absolutely no commitment, just explore the website and fill out a style profile.


2. Come back here and leave a comment, anything you want.

Don't forget to leave me a way to contact you if you win!

Must live in the US to enter. Winner will be announced on (Good) Friday, March 25, 2016 via email or method of contact provided. Winner will have 3 days to respond before another winner is selected, so be sure and check those spam folders.

Best of luck, and happy Fixin'!

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Stitch Fix Does Casual Chic for the Work from Home Mom

Oh that I had written this post yesterday when I was bursting with creativity! If only I could find the perfect formula to achieve that everyday. Perhaps I was inspired by my rockin' 15th Stitch Fix box? I spent the day filling Etsy orders, networking with fellow shop owners, and brainstorming ideas for my Etsy shop. I've almost finished a blog post about all the changes I've seen in Etsy recently.

With all the time I'm spending building my small business, and raising a family, I just don't have time to shop. I actually tried going a few times this last week, and was just too pressed for time and couldn't find what I was looking for. I've really come to rely on my Stitch Fix shipments to fill the gaps in my wardrobe.

This time around, I was looking for casual chic layers for this colder than usual SoCal winter. Seriously, you'd laugh at me if you saw how warm it was yesterday when I picked up #2 from school. Regardless, I'm always cold. Here's what showed up in my first Fix of 2016!


Doesn't it look cozy? 

First up, the Mystree Almada Faux Shearling Vest in tan and white, $78


I thought maybe this time around I'd share the fabric content of the pieces. I was surprised to find this was a polyester spandex blend! It is super soft and delicious, in case you were wondering. My love for this piece affirms my definite love for boho styles.

I tried it on with nearly everything in sight. First, with a sweater I happened to be wearing that I'd just picked up from Marshall's (my only shopping find in nearly 6 hours of shopping).


Sorry for the weird lighting, I was using my mom as a tripod :)

I love the brown on black and white stripe combination, don't you? Mixed neutrals are really big this season. It's funny, when I bought this sweater I kept thinking it needed something. I tried it on with every scarf I owned the day before my Fix came, and nothing was really working. I can't wait to wear this to church next Sunday!

Here's a close up with better lighting.


Here's a picture of the back.


My mom wasn't a fan of the back, but I don't care. I wear clothes for me, and from the front I love this piece.

I thought the vest looked great with solids, too. Here it is over the next item from my Fix, the Papermoon Alecka Lace Sleeve Knit Top, $54


This one is a polyester spandex blend as well. I have a love hate relationship with this type of material. It's super soft, stretchy and comfortable. Unfortunately, it emphasizes every lump and bump.


Photo credit: #1. Thanks for making me look better than I really do kid.

I desperately wanted it to work because it looks so cute with my Kut from the Kloth Maribel Straight Leg Jeans. I don't know why, but I often have trouble finding something to wear with them. I received them in my 13th Fix, so I really haven't had long to experiment. Regardless, I wasn't about to send them back. They are SO comfortable and smooth as butter.

Back to the shirt, I love the romantic meets boho detail. It was the perfect length to cover my rear, too. Bye bye, beautiful top, I will miss you.

This is another one I was hoping would work with my Maribels, the Loveappella Cholame Split Back Knit Top in burgundy, $54.


This one is made from a rayon, polyester, spandex blend. It's a heavier weight, but very breathable. Isn't the split back detail fun?

   

Well, sadly I would've needed a size up in this one. It was tight and a tad bit short in the front. I wasn't sure enough it was going to work for me in a medium to request an exchange, so I sent it back. I really loved it though. Great color and style, and machine washable!

The next piece coordinated well with the Loveappella Cholame Top. This is the Skies are Blue Lowry Open Cardigan in black and white, $58. 

     

I also have to give photo credit to #1 for these, too. Because, the sarcastic faces. But also because you caught good hair shots. 

I loved a lot of things about this cardigan. It's 100% cotton, has a gorgeous open weave, and I love the length and fit. I just realized it was too similar to the cardigan from my very first Fix.

Here's a close up of the detail. Ughh..I can't believe I had to send this one back. But I just did a closet purge and am really trying to restrain from buying every single thing I like to make room for future loves. I know it's going to make someone very happy. Maybe you?


The last piece was the Papermoon Fausta Elbow Patch Raglan Knit Top in navy, $54.


The material, a polyester, spandex, rayon blend, reminded me of the space dye slub knit on the Market & Spruce Sawyer dolman my mom received and the Corinna dolman I had in my box last April.


Unfortunately, that material is just too scratchy for my dish pan hands and it wasn't quite long enough even in my size up. Boo, I actually really liked the elbow patch detail.

So, I ended up just keeping the vest, which I am happy about! Not only did I find a new favorite, I now have an excuse to order another box.

If you'd like to give Stitch Fix a try, I'd love it if you used my referral link!

It's super easy to sign up, and there are no long term commitments! You simply fill out a short questionnaire, select the date you'd like to receive a box, and pay a $20 styling fee. If you decide to keep any of the items, the $20 fee is applied to the price. Send back what you don't like in a prepaid envelope from your very own mailbox.

You can read about my previous experiences here:

In case you missed my last post, there are additional pictures of these items from the Stitch Fix iPhone App. Just click here:  How to Get Your Best Fix: Tips & Tricks

You can also pin the pictures from this post here:

I'd love to hear what you thought about this Fix. Leave a comment below!

Happy Tuesday!

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Golden Tote Review June 2015

Yesterday I was pleasantly surprised to find Golden Tote on my doorstep, just 1 week after ordering!
This is my 5th order, and it just gets better every time! Isn't this month's palm tree design beautimous? Perfect for the beach this summer!


If this is your first time hearing about Golden Tote, I'm glad you stumbled upon this review! Golden Tote is a unique online shopping experience offering both boutique women's clothing and accessories, as well as personally styled totes full of clothes. If you ask me what sets Golden Tote apart from the rest, it's the incredible value, fresh new styles every month, and a one of a kind facebook trading group.

If you like options, Golden Tote's got em!

1. $49 Small Tote: Choose 1 item, receive 1 surprise item
2. $149 Large Tote: Choose 2 items, receive 4 surprises
3. $99 Surprise Tote: Receive 4 surprises
4. Boutique Orders: Shop online, no surprises
You can also add items from the boutique to tote orders at discounted prices!
5. Mystery Totes: Annual sale, amazing price!


This month I went with the large tote; at just $25 an item, why not!
Shipping is free for orders over $149, and I love picking out a few things and being surprised with the rest. I can't wait to see what you think!

First up, my sisters pick. Size twins = tote sharing :)


We are not really twins, this is me. I am holding her clothes hostage! 
She has great taste, I loved this one, too. It's a great cut and color for summer.

Golden Tote calls it the Fun & Fresh Tank, brand Oat & Fawn.
Can you spot #3 in this picture?


This came in 2 other colors, including a really cute elephant print on black
and a multicolored geometric floral pattern which I almost snagged.

You'll see, once you decide to give it a try.
It's nearly impossible to pick just 2!

I haven't quite graduated to buying 2 totes at once, but I'm all for add-ons, like I did this pretty pleated blouse by Naked Zebra. You may recognize it from my Dailylook Elite Review.
I loved it, but for $50 I just couldn't keep it, and Dailylook Elite and I broke up. So, I added it to my Golden Tote for just $30, score!


It's perfect for Maxi skirts!
I think next month I'll pick up another, it comes in a gazillion colors.

Next, my chosen item, the Nautical by Nature Dress in navy and white by Esley.
This was sort of an impulse buy when the Puella swing I wanted was sold out. Somehow I pictured it differently in my head.

  
Obviously, this dress didn't work out for me, which is okay. I really wanted to try something out of my comfort zone, and in all fairness, Golden Tote did describe it as bodycon fit. It's a really cute dress, just not on me! I had no trouble selling it in the trading group.

Next up, my surprises! This time around, I tried to be a little more open minded with my style profile. I chose casual, classic and feminine as my favorites, and asked for long, loose fitting tops, casual weekend wear or clothes for wearing to the park with kids.

When I saw this Peach Love top, I immediately thought of my sister!


She recently adopted an adorable little critter named Dojo. He's not a dachshund, but we actually grew up with one. When I sent her a picture of this, we both had a good chuckle!


Unfortunately, it's just not her style, or mine. I posted this for sale and immediately someone responded with a picture of themselves with their dachshund! Our GT trading group is full of creature lovers, and they carry quite a few critter prints for that reason!


Since I already have a big smile on my face from thinking about my old dog, that poor poor blind, deaf old dog, I thought I'd share this next surprise. This also took me back!


This lime green top is from Pink Note and has really interesting mesh detail at the shoulders.
It's super soft and definitely my casual, throw it on with some jeans style.
I guess my sister and I can duke it out over this one.

We just have to figure out what to wear under it.
I think it would be cute over a bathing suit at the beach.


Here's another beachy surprise, definitely a California girl feel about it.
Don't be jealous. Yes, they sent me the Priddy by Puella Swing Tank.

I'm also wearing the Rose Gold Arrow Glasses I added to my tote from the boutique for just $9!


 People will not stop messaging me about this tank!


Unfortunately, it's just too big on me, and "oat" is just too close to my skin tone.
If only the colors on the back were the main event, and not the party in the back!

Here's the last surprise, which I'm still on the fence about. It's from Skies are Blue, one of my favorite brands. I have several of their items from Stitch Fix, another great styling service. But I'm unsure on the fit. I'll let my sister try it on, too. Because, well, if it looks good on her then I have to keep it for myself! Just kidding, she deserves it.


I styled it with a belt, it has a simple elastic waist. I love the colors and the pattern! Reminds me of a few Gilli maxis I've seen for twice the price.


 If you like what you see and want to request it, I will pin these all later. Follow me here: https://www.pinterest.com/moderntypo/

All in all, I think Golden Tote is doing a really good job of picking out clothes for me and I really look forward to every box! If you want to give it a try, I'd love it if you used my referral! As you can see, $10 goes a long way with Golden Tote!

Here it is:

Be sure to follow me on Facebook to get updates and spoilers:

The July chosen items will go live July 6th at 9am PST!
Be sure and register ahead of time and get started on your style profile!

Have a golden day!