stitch fix : february fix!

(Note : This post contains affiliate links.)

This week I got my very first Fix of 2017!

Stitch Fix is an online personal styling service that I have been using for almost three years now.  I can honestly say it has transformed my style - by helping me figure out what my style truly is - and also saved me considerable money on fashion by eliminating the need/desire to spend time shopping at a million different stores, or buying a bunch of cheap pieces that I only sort of like and don't hold up very well.

Let's just say I have donated a LOT of clothing to Goodwill over the past few years...and it wasn't anything I got from Stitch Fix!

This time around I had a brand new stylist, Blake Lindsey, and she did an amazing job! 

Here is what I got...

#1 Quincie Keyhole Ribbed Back Knit Top (by Ink Love & Peace)

#2 Kiley Ankle Zip Legging (by Rune)

I think my stylists at Stitch Fix have caught on to the fact that I love heather gray.  Probably I could wear plain old heather gray every single day.  This tee is more of a tunic which works great with the leggings.  I like that it is a hi-low cut, and that the top is more fitted, leaving the rest to hang in a flattering (not boxy) way.  The keyhole detail in the back is an added bonus!   I know I will wear this versatile top a lot - so it was a definite keep!

The leggings are a keep as well!  I usually just buy super cheapo black yoga leggings at Target...but they inevitably get little holes in them after only a few wears.  Ugh!  I wanted a pair that would hold up better, with thicker material, and some sort of fun detail.   I actually was hoping for a pair with some leather detail on them, but the ankle zipper on these is really fun, too!  

#3 Carenza Faux Wrap Jersey Dress (by Gilli)

This faux wrap dress (it doesn't really "un-wrap" but simply looks like a wrap) is so lovely! This fit perfectly on absolutely every body part -- arms, bust, butt and the just-below-the-knee length is modest and flattering for us short gals with ample hips and thighs. I wanted to keep this, but the pattern didn't excite me.  It sort of reminded me of something nautical, with the navy and white.  I just don't do nautical.  So - return!

#4 Kramer V-Neck Pullover (by Mak)

Pale blush pink is absolutely one of my favorite colors to wear.  Pretty and flattering to pretty much any skin tone.  So the color of this piece was perfect, but the style fell flat for me.  It was just a simple, soft, v-neck sweater.  Very comfortable, but very blah for me.  I loved it with my ripped jeans and nude stacked heels...but everything else I tried it on with was just meh.  Plus, it was sort of awkward in the fit.  So it was a return.

#5 Clarnella Cold Shoulder Top (by JELLA C)

You know I love the cold-shoulder trend -- so I was excited to be sent another!  I had requested a dark floral top, and I found this one to be exactly what I was looking for.  I think the dark florals are moody yet so feminine.  This one has the ruffle and is longer and flowy, making it super romantic.  I really wasn't in need of another dressy top at all...but I couldn't resist keeping this one!

So there it is - my first Fix of the year!  I couldn't be more please with three pieces I know I will love wearing.

Have you tried Stitch Fix yet?  It has saved me so much time and effort by not having to scour boutiques during my limited free time, or battle crowds at the mall, or try on a million things at Target for maybe one that I like.

I have fewer items in my wardrobe now, but more that I truly love wearing!  For me that is a win!

Stitch Fix arrives when you want it to, with items hand-picked for you based on your style profile and requests to your stylist.  If you are interested, you can get started by clicking the link below or any of the links in this post!

stitch fix men : hubby's fix!

Note: This post contains affiliate links.

Recently Stitch Fix launched Stitch Fix Men -- so now the guys in our lives can have stylist-picked fashion delivered to their door.

Let's be real.  Fewer men probably will admit to loving fashion.  I have, however, known quite a number of guys that are really into it, and honestly they dress so fabulous.  Cheers to these guys!   They like to try new trends and enjoy dressing themselves.  I appreciate that trait.  I can totally relate.

My husband is not one of those men.  I married him for many reasons, but his fashion sense was not one of them.  Not that he dresses poorly - he is super low-maintenance when it comes to clothing.  He buys the same relaxed fit Gap jeans over and over because they fit his "tree trunk thighs."  He owns three sweaters at a time that he wears every winter in rotation to parties.  To work he wears dress pants from Express and button-down dress shirts that usually bought on sale at Jos A. Banks or given to him as Christmas gifts from his parents.

Clothes shopping is something that happens maybe once a year for him.  Out of necessity.

Any fashion trends he tries are wholly because I have suggested it.

Okay - now you have an idea of my husband's approach to fashion.

However, there is another thing you should know about him : he will do whatever he can to make me happy. 

Such a good man.  So he signed up for Stitch Fix Men, created a profile, and scheduled a Fix.  Solely because he knew it would bring me joy...

...and it did!  When his box arrived it was almost as fun as when mine does.  (Check out all my past Fixes here!)

I wasn't sure whether I would take any photos of his items...but he surprisingly let me take some shots of him wearing them!  Again...the things he does for me.  Don't worry, this photo shoot only lasted about fifteen minutes, so he didn't suffer too long!

#1 Zach Straight Leg Jean (Mavi)

 #2 Essential Wash Long Sleeve Shirt (Hawker Rye)

I loved these jeans straight out of the box, mainly because the material is stretchy and I thought they could accommodate the "trunk thighs."  Plus, they are a really dark wash, which, coupled with the straight cut, makes these a much more modern look compared with the other jeans he owns.  I crossed my fingers they would fit and be comfortable on him...and they were!  He did waffle a bit on keeping these, but I sold him on the convenience factor of not having to bother trying on another pair of jeans at the GAP any time soon. (Or having to order online.)  Plus, I liked how they looked on him, and he liked that...so...kept!

The forest green checked shirt is more casual than his other "work shirts" so that was a bonus!  I could see him wearing this for date nights with the jeans, and it was comfy.  However, while he liked it, it just didn't seem like something he would wear often enough...so it was a return.

 Item #3 : La Grande Cotton Cashmere V Neck Sweater (Commerce)

Oh my - this photo makes me giggle!  Anyway,  this very simple charcoal v-neck sweater was fine - nothing to get overly excited about - but very nice for layering.  If you are a guy that loves to layer, then having a soft cashmere sweater like this one is essential.  However, my husband is not the kinda guy that can handle layering.  He "runs hot," has huge shoulders and has a bit of a tummy.  Whenever he tries to layer in the winter he feels (and therefore looks) uncomfortable.   That is no good.  Granted, you can wear this type of sweater over a t-shirt and not be so warm, which he will do on occasion.   But he already owns two other v-necks that are similar, so this was a RETURN.

#4 Nathan Heathered Baseball Henley (by Tailor Vintage)

I have been wanting him to get a baseball tee for so long, so I was happy to see this in his Fix!  Super soft, nice color, and great fit for an XL-wearing guy!  This was Paul's favorite item in the Fix, so he was more than willing to keep it.

#5 Kit Ultra Move Blazer (Indigo Move) 

this photo epitomizes how uncomfortable he was.  love that face!

Lastly, this blazer.  It was way too small.  The shoulders and tummy area were a problem.  It is a dark jean material and a very cool look...but perhaps a bit too trendy for my man.  Returned!

I love those big arms and shoulders...just hard to fit them comfortably in a trendy blazer.

So he got a comfortable, yet modern, pair of jeans (a feat for him!) and that baseball henley we both really, really like.  Overall, a great Fix!

Hubby's thoughts about Stitch Fix were mixed.  Since he is not really that into fashion there was not much excitement in it for him.  He does like the items he kept -- but didn't think he really had enough time to decide.  (He had five days since the weekend gives you some extra time.)  He felt he needed a full week.  For me, three days is more than enough since I can easily find time (or will prioritize time) to try them on with other things in my wardrobe.

He says he will get another Fix - maybe in a year!  Yep.  That is my Hubby.  He could take it or leave it.

If you feel like your man could use a little dose of fashion in his life, or if he is one of those guys that loves fashion but doesn't necessarily have a bunch of time to shop, he may want to try Stitch Fix! Send him this link to get started, or click on the link below.  Also, a Stitch Fix gift card would be a fun idea for any fashion-lover in your life!  I've received them on several occasion - such a nice surprise!

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Happy Thanksgiving, friends!  

We are hosting the big meal again at our home this year, so I am grateful and excited for that.  

I hope everyone has a lovely holiday full of delicious food and quality time with those you love!

stitch fix : neutral fix!

***Note: This post contains affiliate links...so if you are inspired by this post to try Stitch Fix, please use me as your referral by clicking HERE or any of the links within the post or sidebar!  If you do so, I will receive a small commission to support this blog for sharing my honest, personal experience with Stitch Fix.  Thank you, friends!!!!***

Have you ever stopped to consider what your personal style is?   Maybe you've always known since you were young.  Maybe it has evolved over the years.  

As I look back on my own "style evolution" I keep coming back to the same thing : I look and feel best in simple, comfortable neutrals - with a bit of edge.   I love a white v-neck t-shirt...with some leather pants or amazing jeans.  A simple gray tank top -- with an open back, paired with denim and super high stiletto heels.

My signature "bar look" in college was almost always jeans, with an embellished white (or black, or gray) cotton tank top from Express.  Remember the ribbed kind that were popular for forever, and still sort of are, but at that time they would put beads and sequins on them to make it more dressy?   And heels. Of course.

Anyway, while I love an occasional bright pop of color, I would still, at thirty-five and a mama,  describe my taste as primarily "edgy neutrals," rather than "bright + preppy" or "bold boho prints." 

So in order to beef up my capsule wardrobe for fall, and stick to my personal favorite look, I requested that in this Stitch Fix I get all neutrals!  

I love the pieces Hillary picked for me this time around.  A good mix of styles, and a pair of jeans that finally weren't skinny jeans (which I can only wear so much.) 

Here is what I got...

#1 Kailie Marled Swing Knit Top (by Bobeau)

This was probably my favorite item from this Fix!  When I first opened my box I marveled at how soft the material is - and I really liked the blush pink color intermingled with black and brown and gray thread in the print.  I guess that is what "marled" means...and I like it.  The top half is fitted and very flattering - plus, I think that a 3/4 length sleeve always makes your arms seem leaner, which is a plus!  The bottom half is loose yet still hangs nicely - and, as I mentioned on my IG Story unboxing video, this top will be perfect to wear for a holiday feast...so much room in the tummy section. Obviously this was a KEEP!

 #2 Fynn Tie Waist Striped Cardigan (by Market & Spruce)

I specifically requested a cardigan that is belted that I could wear in the fall in lieu of a jacket.  I was expecting more of a solid that could go with anything, but I actually really like this piece.  The stripes are unlike anything else I have, and are neutral heaven!  I can wear this with jeans or leggings, belting it for a dressier look, or leaving it open for casual everyday "momming."  Perfect with yoga pants and comfy flats...or...yoga pants and booties!  (Come on, you know you've passed yoga leggings off as "real" leggings.)  This cardi was a keep! I have worn it at least five times since I received my Fix a couple weeks ago.

#3 Kyleigh Straight Leg Jean (by Dear John)

So my last couple Fixes my stylist sent me skinny jeans.  If you follow my posts you know I am not a huge "skinny jeans gal."  I think they are cute, and as evidences by the top photo, I own them and will wear them on occasion.  But I tend to get cranky after wearing them a few hours.  So I was super happy that Hillary sent me some looser, straight-leg denim this time!  I wanted a dark wash that I could wear cuffed.  These are very comfy and fit with my mostly casual lifestyle.  I can throw them on with flats and a tee or sweater and be ready to go!  Kept these jeans, for sure!  Are you sensing a pattern with this Fix?)

#4 Nerman Off-The-Shoulder Top (by Laila Jayde)

If you follow me at all on social media you know I kept this top.  I am pretty much a sucker for the OTS trend.  Some women love their legs and wear short skirts, I am more of a "shoulder gal."   I like this top for a night out with friends or Hubby.  The color is listed as "brown," but to me it is more of a deep eggplant, which is one of my favorite colors to wear, especially in the fall.  Here I styled it with my high waisted flared denim (from this Fix last year) but it could pretty much go with any of my jeans.  I wore it within the first week on date night and have no regrets!  

#5 Alania Pocket Front Cowl Neck (by Emily Rose)

When I first put on this sweater I was really skeptical.  It is super huge.  I am normally averse to large baggy tops.  I initially referred to it as my "cat lady" sweater, as I kinda felt like it was frumpy.  (No offense, cat ladies!)  Then I tried it with some leggings and booties, and then with some skinny jeans and heels, and I found I could offset the bagginess enough for it to be flattering.  Ya'll this sweater is so cozy!  My kids love snuggling up against me (like cats) in this sweater.  I like that it is long and the pockets (perfect for cat treats) are a nice added touch.   So I had to keep it.  Plus, I was keeping everything else, so basically, with the 25% off "keep all" discount,  I got it for free.  Hurray!

So here are my top three reasons for loving Stitch Fix...

1) It makes my life easier.  As a busy mama of two little ones I really don't care to spend my limited free time shopping at malls, traveling to obscure boutiques, or scouring a bunch of websites to find the perfect piece.  Someday I will have time to do that again - but right now I need some help!  So with Stitch Fix I can stay on-trend and get my fashion fix without having to leave my house.  I can try the items on in my own time (you get three full days to decide) and I can give the returns to my friendly postal worker to mail back for me (with the return envelope provided.

2) It is FUN!  I love getting "happy mail" that involves fashionable pieces picked specifically for me!

3) It is personal.  You pick the day you want it to arrive.  Your style profile is made by you.  You give your personal stylist (yes, a real person picks out your items) feedback which they are responsive to.  You decide what type of items you want to see in your Fix.  You can choose "all pants" or "no accessories" or "some shoes" -- it is not completely random.  If there is a trend you want to try, request it!

If you haven't tried Stitch Fix yet, start by completing your style profile by clicking the link below...

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I hope everyone has a wonderful week - finally Election Day has arrived!

Let's pray for the candidates and for our country!

stitch fix...for the men!

***Note: This post contains affiliate links...so if you are inspired by this post to try Stitch Fix, please use me as your referral by clicking HERE to support future posts .  Thank you, friends!!!!***

Ya'll know I love Stitch Fix.  

Then recently they announced their newest service -- Stitch Fix Men!  

No, my Hubby didn't jump up and down when I told him, because like many, many men he really doesn't put a lot of thought into picking out clothes or keeping up with fashion trends.  Nope, my husband is more of a "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" kinda guy.  Case in point : until recently he had sported the same haircut that he had since college.  Exact same hair as when I met him fifteen years ago.  Exact.

Recently I convinced him to change it up to a more trendy 'do, which he obliged, and even grew a beard, to keep up with our current beard-loving times.  Disclaimer :  I am not really a beard gal, but this is like having massive sideburns in the 1970's...you gotta do it.  Our kids need to be able to make fun of him in twenty years for this hard-part and beard combo!   Just like I marvel at my mama's white patent leather go-go boots, and my kids will roll their eyes at my wide assortment of military green garb.

"Mom, you definitely weren't in the army...so why with the camo????"

I love that fashion helps tell the story of our times.

Anyway, I truly enjoy Hubby's new hairstyle, and I am quite excited about Stitch Fix Men in that I would love for my him to try something new, fashion-wise!  He never shops, rarely buys clothes - and really needs to at this point.

So after a request from me last week, he logged onto Stitch Fix and created his style profile.  The things we do for love, right?

He even scheduled his first Fix!

I am SO excited!  (He is not that excited, but is humoring me.)

Does your husband love fashion?  Or perhaps he is like mine, and does not take time to shop or follow trends.  Or maybe you are the one that picks out everything for him and would like this process to be a bit easier on you as well.

Whatever the case, Stitch Fix Men might be an awesome thing for him/you to try!

If you are interesting in trying Stitch Fix Men -  click HERE or on the link below to get started on a style profile!  It will be fun!

I can't wait to share what Paul gets in his first Fix with you!  

In the meantime, I just returned from a weekend girlfriend getaway in New Orleans, so photos and recap from that to come!

Hope everyone is having a lovely week!

stitch fix : spain fix!

***Note: This post contains affiliate links...so if you are inspired by this post to try Stitch Fix, please use me as your referral by clicking HERE or any of the links within the post or sidebar!  If you do so, I will receive a small commission to support future Stitch Fix posts for sharing my honest, personal experience with Stitch Fix.  Thank you, friends!!!!***

It's Fix time!

I tend to schedule my Stitch Fix boxes about every six weeks, and usually around a special event or trip.  It is pretty awesome that you can choose the specific date you want your Fix to arrive!  

This time around I was looking for a some fun pieces for an upcoming trip to Spain -- items that could hopefully also transition into the fall season!  

My stylist Hilary delivered and sent me some fun, bright, unique choices -- and a fab pair of jeans!

#1 Uribe Pleat Detail Top (Papermoon)

I think this peplum tank is super cute, with such a darling floral print.  It could even work for fall under a lightweight cardi, with jeans and booties.   The only downside was the fit.  You see that I cinched it with a belt, as otherwise it billowed out and had an odd boxy fit.  It either needed to be tighter on top...or I need considerably larger boobs.  The latter is not going to happen, so...RETURN. 

2. Gonzalez Double Strap Tank (Pixley)

3. Tory Distressed Ankle Zip Skinny Jean (Pistola)

4. Maci Metal Lace Cuff (Kevia) 

This tank I thought I would not like when I initially opened my Fix, as it looked boxy and basically ill-fitting. However...it kinda made me happy wearing it!  Soft material, billowy yet with the hi-lo cut it is sort of flattering, and a bright print.  The thin double straps and v-neckline add a little flair. Something about this tank is fun!  I'll probably return it, but you never know!

These skinny jeans are adorable - a great wash, just the right amount of distressing, very soft/stretchy, and the zippers!  Oh, the zippers!  The zippers at the ankles are fabulous.  The perfect skinny jean.  You know, if you love skinny jeans.  I just don't love skinny jeans given my ample, child-bearing hips.  Plus, I already have three pair in different washes that are just just fine for when I need them. However, if you are a skinny-jeans loving gal, you should request these Pistola jeans from your stylist!!!!  I returned these, though, as I need a slightly looser fit jeans, Hillary!!!!!

I said I'd be okay with a statement bracelet or ring in this fix, and so I was sent this metal lace cuff.  I am okay with it, but I wasn't in love.  I'm more of a minimalist, beads/stone, or leather kind of jewelry girl.  The sparkly lace detail of this cuff is a little much for me -- and it kept sliding around, which was bothersome.  This was an definite return.

#5 Glenice Cold Shoulder Blouse (Collective Concepts) 

I had requested a fully off-the-shoulder top; however, when I saw this cold-shoulder blouse I knew I had to give it a chance!  The ruby color is BEAUTIFUL, and will transition to fall easily with the longer sleeves.  I can see this with black skinny jeans or leather leggings and heels for a night out, or with blue jeans, booties and felt hat as I wear in these pics.  This was my definite keep from this Fix -- I am in love with this top!

Whenever I have a Fix photo shoot to do, my babes inevitably want to join in on the fun!   

Are you interested in getting your own Stitch Fix box, delivered to your doorstep with five pieces hand-picked by a stylist based on your requests and fashion profile?  It is really fun, ya'll.  The stylist fee is $20, but that is credited to whatever you decide to keep.  Another great thing is that it sometimes forces you out of your comfort zone, giving you options that you may never have picked up a store.

Just make sure you try on everything in your box, at least twice, to get a feel for whether or not it is something you would enjoy wearing!  Sometimes you know right away, and other times you need a bit to dwell on what direction you want your wardrobe to go.

You get three days (sometimes a bit more) to try on your items with the rest of your wardrobe and decide what looks best and feels best on your figure, then you just put what you don't want in the provided envelope and mail it back.  Easy!  Fun!  Try it for yourself by clicking the link below!

stitch fix : 'white dress' fix!

***Note: if you are inspired by this post to try this fun fashion styling service yourself, please use me as your referral by clicking HERE or any of the included links.  If you do so, I will receive a small commission to support future posts for sharing my honest, personal experience with Stitch Fix.  Thank you!!!!***

This month's Stitch Fix box had a specific request: an all-white dress for an upcoming "diner en blanc" event.  

I told my stylist Hillary that I would love a couple options to put up against the only white dress I already have (besides my wedding dress!) and I was not sure what to expect.  However, she sent me two surprising but cute frocks!  I also requested some denim gauchos, and some cute tops for summer.

So, without further ado, here are the five items I received in my Fix this month...

#1 Maegan Lasercut Knit Dress (London Times) 

This dress is totally not my typical style...but I kinda love it.  It is very girly and had a sort of retro, 1950's housewife vibe.  The laser cutout material and skirt design make it really unique and the fit is pretty flattering, despite not being what I would normally wear.  This, ladies, is why I love Stitch Fix -- it really can help you learn to branch out and figure out what works on your frame!  I am strongly considering keeping this dress...but still not sure,  I don't know what else I would wear it to.  (Update: ended up KEEPING!  Wore it to Diner En Blanc and had a fabulous time!) 

#2 Arley Dress (Skies are Blue)

White dress option number two was more of a simple sheath. When I unboxed my Fix I thought I would prefer this one.  But despite the fun print and cutout in the back, this shift style of dress is not quite as flattering on me.  Super comfortable, but a bit baggy and ill-fitting.  I doubt I would keep this, as I don't feel completely fabulous in it...which I think is a necessity for a special event.

#3 Carrie Released Hem Denim Gaucho (Mavi)

I really, really want to keep these gaucho jeans...but I'm not sure I can pull the trigger.  I like the raw hem, and the wash is great...but they really accentuate my hips!  They actually look better with a tank top that is more fitted, rather than this billowy blouse.  The wideness of the leg needs to be balanced by something a slimmer silhouette on top.  At least on me.  They are comfy and breezy in the summer, though, so I am highly considering keeping!  I not-so-secretly adore this trend.  I wore gauchos on my honeymoon nine years ago! So comfy.  (Update : ended up returning to hold out for something more flattering....)

#4 Diller Crochet Sleeve Knit Top (Market & Spruce)

I love, love, love this yellow top, though.  It is super soft, and the lace detail at the shoulders is delicate and feminine.   Plus,  I love this bright hue for summer!  I am definitely keeping it - tags already removed and I even wore it to book club this week.  I can see wearing this to a variety of different casual events, or dressing it up for church on Sunday.  Probably won't wear with the gauchos as I feel the look is a little too much.  Or maybe it is the floppy hat that is making me look like a fabulous gardener...which I don't mind, really.  :D

Gardener G - and sweet little C!

#5 Gena Cutout Detail Top (Skies are Blue)

This top was just okay for me.  It is the perfect color, as I love this jewel-toned turquoise, but it is really wrinkly and the front is a little too blah.  This one is a definite return.

So that is it for this Fix!  Besides the yellow tope, I have no idea what I'll end up keeping!

Want to try a new trend but don't know where to start?  Get overwhelmed in malls or big-box stores and end up buying items impulsively - or not buying anything out of frustration? Don't have time to hit up a bunch of boutiques looking for something unique?  Sign up to try Stitch Fix for a totally different experience and possibly an item or two that you LOVE.  Almost all my favorites in my little wardrobe come from Fixes.   

Click this image to get started on your own Fix!

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In other news...our backyard is coming together!  As you can see from these photos, we have a new fence, the gravel is on the ground almost ready for pavers to be laid, and the raised brick planters are all filled with dirt and some things have been planted.   So excited for all the progress!

Here you can see the reality of trying to do a Stitch Fix post during a chaotic backyard renovation with two kiddos that do not take any naps...

They are pretty darn sweet, though.