Stitch Fix Review April 2016

Today, I'm posting something a little out of the ordinary for The Prairie Sun Life. It's not farm-related or fitness-related... I guess it falls into the "Life" category. Today, I present you with a review of my latest Stitch Fix shipment!

I haven't signed up for a Fix in a long time. I think my last one was in January, and I didn't keep anything. The time before that, I didn't keep anything either. After a long break, and with the change in seasons, I decided to give Stitch Fix another go.

If you're new to Stitch Fix, here's how it works. You fill out an online style profile that helps narrow down your likes and dislikes.  A professional stylist then selects (with the aid of an algorithm) five pieces of clothing, shoes and accessories to send to you, for a $20 styling fee. Typically, a fix will consist of one or two bottoms, one accessory or shoe, and the rest will be tops. Your items are sent to you via FedEx. Once they arrive, you have three days to try everything on and decide what, if anything, you will keep. Your $20 styling fee is applied toward anything you keep. If you keep all five items in your box, you also get a $20% discount off your total. Anything you don't want, you can return in a pre-paid mailer. Pretty sweet, right?

I also set up a Pinterest board for inspiration for my stylist and link it to my account. This time around, I deleted my old board and started completely fresh with current looks that I am liking for spring. In my note to my stylist, I requested bright spring colors and fun patterns, and also something fun to wear for my birthday, which is coming up.

There is a sort of secret way that you can "peek" ahead of time at what you're receiving in your shipment. I'll admit- I peeked! So, I knew ahead of time that this is what I'd be getting:

Liverpool Kolten Denim Jacket, $98.00
Brixon Ivy Lex Textured Knit Dress, $74.00
Nine West Onlee Pointed Toe Flats, $69.00
Citizens of Humanity Aniston Boyfriend Jeans, $168.00
Daniel Rainn Albado Crew Neck Blouse, $58.00

First impressions, just from the peek? Well, I already have two denim jackets, so it's unlikely I'd keep that. The dress is something I've had pinned in the past, so depending on color and fit, it could be good. Shoes-- I am in need of some shoe updates. Can't wait to see what these are like! Jeans... oh boy. That price is way more than I normally would pay! They'd have to be pretty amazing for me to keep them at that price! And the blouse-- I have several Daniel Rainn tops already that I really like. Excited to see what this one will look like!

Here's a glance at everything, straight out of the box. Right away I see a great mix of colors and styles that I really like!

Now, let's take a look at some of the items and outfits.

First, I tried on the Brixon Ivy Lex Textured Knit Dress with the Liverpool Kolten Denim Jacket and Nine West Onlee Pointed Toe Flats, because my stylist, Cydney, suggested in her note that this would be a cute outfit all together. And- It was! What do you think?

Brixon Ivy Lex Textured Knit Dress and Liverpool Kolten Denim Jacket from Stitch Fix.

Let's talk about this dress. I had forgotten that I actually had this dress pinned on my board, and was delighted to see it in my box. It fit GREAT and I felt really great in it! Win/Win! Plus, Jeff said I looked good and that I better keep it. Any time you get the seal of approval from the hubs, you gotta keep it, right!? I can see myself wearing this to a variety of types of events, dressed up or down. The fit is perfect, it's super comfortable, and I really like the cheery yellow color.

Brixon Ivy Lex Textured Knit Dress from Stitch Fix.

Here's a close up of the fabric:


The Nine West Onlee flats were cute, comfortable, and the correct size. Here are few photos-

Nine West Onlee Flats from Stitch Fix.

Nine West Onlee Flats from Stitch Fix.

But... I have something reasonably similar already, so I decided to send them back. If they had been a different color I might have kept them.


The Liverpool Kolten Denim Jacket was nice, buttery soft, and fit well. But again, I already have a denim jacket (two actually- one white, one blue), and I don't need another one, so the jacket is getting returned, too.  I'm sure it will make someone else very happy!

Liverpool Kolten Denim Jacket from Stitch Fix. 

Outfit Two that I tried on was the Daniel Rainn top with the Citizens of Humanity Aniston Boyfriend Jeans. There was a lot of upside to this outfit.

Daniel Rainn Albado Blouse and Citizens of Humanity Boyfriend Jeans from Stitch Fix.

Starting with this beautiful Daniel Rainn Albado Crew Neck Blouse. I fell in love with the pattern and colors of this top straight out of the box and found myself really hoping it would fit... and it did! It's a little big through the armholes, but I don't think I could go down a size because it fit almost snug across my back. I like the length, the long hem in the back, and the lightweight material. I see myself wearing this all through spring and summer and will layer with cardigans or a jean jacket. Love Love Love. Definite keeper!

Daniel Rainn Albado Crew Neck Blouse from Stitch Fix.

The jeans- I love the idea of white jeans and have been searching for some for quite some time. Alas, the search continues. These are probably at least one size too big in the waist but I think if I went down a size they'd be too small in the hips and thighs. Plus, the $168 price point is too much for me. If they had been spun from silk from the last silkworm in Cleopatra's tomb, then maybe it would have been worth it. But they weren't. And they didn't fit. The quest for white jeans goes on. These are being returned.

Little bit too big!

All in all, I was finally happy with a fix! I think I will request Cydney again. I felt like she took time to read my note, look at my Pinterest board, and actually make personalized selections that fit my requests and aesthetic. While I only kept two out of five items, everything was on-point in terms of overall style. Definitely going to try again and hopefully Cydney will stick with me!

What do you think of this fix? What items would you have kept?

Want to give Stitch Fix a try? Please consider using my Referral Link (CLICK HERE)-- I'll love you forever! (I get a small credit when your first fix ships!)

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Stitch Fix August 2015 Review

Guess what, everyone? It's Stitch Fix time!

Not familiar with StitchFix? If you're not familiar with Stitch Fix, it's a really neat way to shop for clothes wherein you let someone else do just about all of the work for you. You schedule when you want your shipment, or "fix," and write a brief note describing what you might be looking for. Stitch Fix assigns you with a stylist who picks out five pieces they think will be just right for you based on your size and style preferences. When your fix ships, you're charged a $20.00 fee. Once it arrives, you have three days to try everything on and decide what to keep or send back. You're only charged for what you keep, and the $20.00 styling fee is credited toward the cost of your keepers. If you keep nothing, you're out your $20.00. If you keep everything, you get 25% off your total, less the $20.00.  Best of all, you don't have to go shopping. You get unique, quality pieces delivered right to your door.

I've been shopping with Stitch Fix for just about a year now and I really, really love it. It's perfect for someone like me who doesn't really love shopping, lives in a rural area with limited access to good shopping, and is busy.

I've had the same stylist for several fixes in a row. My last fix didn't wow me, and the one before that wasn't outstanding either, so I requested a new stylist this time. My previous stylist (Anna) did a fine job, but I was just ready to mix it up a bit with someone new. I asked for pieces for back to school, including chinos, or colored jeans or pants that aren't denim. I also requested that the pieces are some that can be layered going forward into fall, and said I love colors like blue, yellow, orange, navy, black, and gray.

So... Imagine my surprise when I took out my style card and saw XO Anna on the bottom. She said she wanted to try one more fix with me. Ok then. Let's take a look at the photos and see how she did! 

Here's what Anna sent me this time:
41Hawthorn Angela Quilted Detailed Blouse
Margaret M Emer High Waisted Trouser
Brixon Ivy Coco Swiss Dot Lattice Detail Blouse
Fun2Fun Mina Split Neck Blouse
Zad Jorja Teardrop Bauble Necklace

First off, I put the Emer pants, Swiss Dot top and Zad necklace on all together:

Brixon Ivy Coco Swiss Dot Lattice Detail Blouse, Margaret M Emer High Waisted Trouser, and Zad Jorja Teardop Bauble Necklace, from Stitch Fix. 

Zad Jorja Teardrop Bauble Necklace
I had requested a necklace to match the turquoise earrings I received in my last fix and this is what Anna sent. In theory, it should have worked, but the turquoises don't match, and that bothered me. I know the stylists often work from home and don't get a chance to actually see or feel the product all the time, and, turquoise is really hard to match, so I definitely don't hold it against Anna! The necklace does look nice with the Swiss dot top, but it just looked and felt sort of cheap. I'd rather spend more money on a higher quality item. Two more photos below. Verdict: Returned.

Zad Jorja Teardop Bauble Necklace and Bay To Baubles Eugenia Triple Stone Earrings from Stitch Fix.

Zad Jorja Teardrop Bauble Necklace from Stitch Fix.

Margaret M Emer High Waisted Trouser
If you look on the Stitch Fix B/S/T Facebook group, the Emer pants are everyone's favorite. This is actually the second time I've received a pair of these in my fix. I got a pair of cobalt blue textured Emers back in March. This time, I got plain black Emers. The fabric is nice and feels high-quality, and they were a good, all-around workhorse pair of black pants. But. I already have a glutton of black pants in my closet. There's also something about the Emers that just don't work exactly perfect for me-- I get a little pooch in the crotch area after I wear them, and they gap in the waistband for me. A common problem with my strong legs and booty is that pants fit through the leg but gap at the waist. They're also just tight enough that some of the more conservative-minded wardrobe watchers at school might call them border-line leggings which is deemed inappropriate in our dress code, so there's that. I can see why a lot of people really love these pants, but they're just not for me. They'd have to be perfect at $98.00 for me to keep them, and they just aren't. There's another photo of the Emer pants with the Swiss Dot top below. Verdict: Returned.

Margaret M Emer High Waisted Trouser and Brixon Ivy Coco Swiss Dot Lattice Detail Blouse from Stitch Fix.

Ok, now let's talk about the Brixon Ivy Top! Oh, how I adore this top. :)

Brixon Ivy Coco Swiss Dot Lattice Detail Blouse
I knew I'd like this top from the moment I peeked at my fix online. It did not disappoint in person! The fit and fabric were perfect. It also comes with a matching cami to wear underneath, since it's definitely sheer and, hello, it has lattice detail in the front! Since I knew I wasn't going to be keeping the Emer pants, I tried this top again with jeans and a cardigan I already owned, and some necklaces:

Brixon Ivy Coco Swiss Dot Lattice Detail Blouse from Stitch Fix.

Another great feature of this top is that it has handy little snaps in the shoulder seams so you can hook your cami straps or bra straps in place so they won't peak out. Honestly, I could never understand why every sleeveless top doesn't have these little snaps in them:

If I can find some different pants to wear with this outfit, I'll definitely wear this to school. I like that the top is a neutral color I can wear year-round and with many different cardigans and layering pieces. This is a great, versatile top I know I will wear a lot! Destined to be in my Stitch Fix Hall of Fame. :) Verdict: Definite Keeper!

Next up, Fun2Fun Mina Split Neck Blouse-

Fun2Fun Mina Split Neck Blouse paired with 41 Hawthorn Abriana Longsleeve Knit Cardigan and 31Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace, from Stitch Fix.

Fun2Fun Mina Split Neck Blouse- I immediately saw why Anna picked this top for me. It has all the colors I requested in my note in one shirt! haha! How could I turn it down? I paired this with the 31Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace I got in my May Fix and the 41Hawthorn Abriana Longsleeve Knit Cardigan from my March Fix. Instant outfit success. Even without those pieces, I really liked this top. I like the lightweight material, the fit is great, I love the colors and patterns, and again, I have a lot of cardigans and layering pieces to carry this top through to colder months. This top will also look great now, in summer's heat, with the white shorts I got in my June fix (which I wear all the time!) This was also the cheapest item in my fix (other than the necklace) so the obvious choice was to keep it. Verdict: Kept!

The Fun2Fun blouse instantly made me think of this dress I had pinned. In my photo, the colors don't look as bright as they actually are, but it is actually quite similar in look to this African-inspired dress:

Well done, Anna! Inspiration directly from my Pinterest. I do love me some primary colors all together! :)

Lastly, 41Hawthorn Angela Quilted Detailed Blouse:

41Hawthorn Angela Quilted Detailed Blouse from Stitch Fix

41Hawthorn Angela Quilted Detailed Blouse: Oh my, I knew I was in trouble when I peeked at this fix because I was pretty sure I'd like all three tops. I just didn't know what color this one would be until I opened the box. I had a suspicion it'd be cobalt blue, and, as you see, it was! Yay! It's a little loose and flowy on me, but not so much that it looks sloppy, especially if I can pair it with slim pants. I tried it on here with a Lia Sophia necklace I already owned in black and BAM! Perfect outfit for school functions--North Star Blue and Black!

This shirt is very, very similar to the 41Hawthorn Filbert 3/4 Sleeve Popover Blouse, which is another Stitch Fix mainstay. I received a white one in my March Fix, and I wear it a ton! The biggest difference is the length- this top is probably a good two inches shorter than the Filbert. And obviously, this one has that cute quilting detail across the shoulders and at the sleeve hem. Love it. I loved the blue color, but the quilting was what really sold this one for me in the end. Verdict: Kept!

Here's another outfit I put together with the Angela blouse, with some leggings and boots:

41Hawthorn Angela Quilted Detailed Blouse from Stitch Fix with Herringbone Chaturanga Tights from Athleta.

Again, probably can't wear this outfit to work due to the leggings rule (you can wear leggings, but then you have to wear something over them that comes to 4" above the knee, which this top doesn't) but it's still a great outfit I think I'll wear outside of work. I love it when I can see other items in my closet to pair my Stitch Fix finds with!

Overall, this fix was a great success! I kept three items--all tops-- from this fix. Thankfully, I had a referral credit in my account to make my fix even cheaper! (Thanks, Joellyn!) Also, my confidence in Anna, my stylist, was renewed and I'm going to stick with her for the foreseeable future. If you think you want to give Stitch Fix a try, I'd love if you'd use my referral link: https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/4005981 Yeah, you're only feeding my addiction. But just you try it and you'll see how addicting it is, too, especially when you get pieces that are hand-picked just for you! 

Also, if you've made it this far, I've got one more shameless plug for you to read through. My Stitch Fix posts have the highest traffic to my blog, by far, than anything else I write about, and it's largely women. So, this is a great opportunity to tell you all about a project I am doing to help educate and inspire rural women in Montana. My husband and I are first-time race directors for a 5K we're holding right here on our farm, called 5K On The Farm. It's a fun run/race fundraising event to raise money to provide leadership training and education for women in agriculture.

You may not know me, and you may not live in Montana, but you may be interested in helping women grow. That is why you should sign up for our Virtual Run, which we are also offering to people who want to help the cause but who can't make it to the farm on race day (September 12, 2015). Visit our race website: 5K On The Farm, or head to our RunSignUp page for more info!

Thanks, everyone! Until next time!!! :)

Stitchfix Review July 2015

It's time for another Stitch Fix review on my blog!



I actually received this fix several weeks ago when I was on vacation visiting family in Iowa. Life has just been extremely busy since then so I haven't gotten around to working on this post. So, this is technically my June fix, posting in July. I'm skipping the month of July to receive a fix and will pick up again in August for back to school. I don't need a ton of new clothes over the summer, so it's a good time to ease off the fixes and the budget.

I probably would have skipped the June fix, too, but I thought it would be fun for my Mom and I to have ours delivered at the same time so we could open ours together while I was home in Iowa. I got my Mom started with Stitch Fix last Christmas with a gift card. She has a full time job which she commutes to and has not a lot of free time to shop, so I thought it would be fun. I think (I hope!) she's still enjoying the service! Today's post will feature in-depth photos and descriptions of my items and some info and fewer photos of some of Mom's.

Without further ado, here's the list of what I got!
Just Black Tatyana Distressed Short
Papermoon Salen Knit Top
Bay to Baubles Eugenia Triple Stone Earrings
Eight Sixty Kip Dress
Papermoon Terren Maxi Dress



So, I'm one of those people who "peeks" when I get my shipping notification for my fix. I like to know ahead of time what I'm getting. I do google search and Pinterest search to see what's coming in. I'm not good with surprises and I've found that when I'm surprised, I do more impulse buying, which really translates to wasting money. I'm not saying that I'm not open to trying something different when it comes in my fix, but just that I find I do better if I can see what's coming and remain open minded.

The item I was probably most excited about were these shorts...
Just Black Tatyana Distressed Short, which I'm wearing with Papermoon Salen Knit Top.

Just Black Tatyana Distressed Short and Papermoon Salen Knit Top from Stitch Fix.

Just Black Tatyana Distressed Short

I have to say, I was not expecting white shorts, so when I opened my box, that was definitely a surprise. I shouldn't have been surprised, though, because I have been requesting white jeans since forever. My stylist went with white shorts instead. I wasn't sure I'd like them, but when I tried them on they fit absolutely perfect and they're very comfortable. As I've said before, if I can find something I like that actually fits around my behind, it's probably a keeper. So I kept these. I've actually worn them several times since receiving them and they've quickly become some of my favorite shorts for summer! Status: Kept!

Papermoon Salen Knit Top

This was something else that, after peeking on my fix, I thought I'd really like. Barring any poor fit or quality issues, I knew right away I'd be likely to keep it. Happily, it fit great! This top is a little loose and a little sheer, but it's perfect layered over a cami for summer. I wore it for my Grandma's 90th Birthday Party and received compliments. It's cool and comfortable. I'll definitely be able to wear it to school this fall, too. Status: Kept!

Here's another image of the Just Black Tatyana Distressed Short, paired with another top I own. I seriously love these shorts! Cool, cute, and comfy for summer! 

Just Black Tatyana Distressed Shorts from Stitch Fix.

Next, a quick look at the earrings I got this time:

Bay to Baubles Eugenia Triple Stone Earrings

Bay to Baubles Eugenia Triple Stone Earrings from Stitch Fix, shown with Just Black Tatyana Distressed Short.

Bay to Baubles Eugenia Triple Stone Earrings
Again, I thought there'd be little chance I'd return any earrings once I peeked on my fix. I couldn't find any images of these, but I had a good feeling about them anyway. My stylist definitely delivered on these! I love, love, love turquoise jewelry and these really hit the mark. I've worn them a few times and they're not too heavy, which I also like. They're the longest dangly earrings I now own, but that doesn't bother me as much as I thought it might. I know I'll wear these a ton for years to come! Now I just need Stitch Fix to send me a necklace to match these... Status: Kept!

Moving on to the dresses I received this fix. I'd been asking for dresses to wear for summer weddings and my stylist sent me two more to try this time.

First, Eight Sixty Kip Dress

Eight Sixty Kip Dress from Stitch Fix.

Eight Sixty Kip Dress
This dress... Oh this dress. This was one that really had me scratching my head about my stylist. I did eventually find another dress I had pinned that was similar to this style, but way better, and it made a bit more sense. But... yeah. This did nothing for me. It kind of looked and felt like a bag. The balance was off on it, too-- you can see how it hangs shorter in the front than in the back? And there were quality issues. Lots of strings hanging loose all over the place. I couldn't think of any scenario in which I would keep this dress, sadly. Status: Returned!

Can you see the loose threads? Sad face.

Lastly from my fix, Papermoon Terren Maxi Dress

Papermoon Terren Maxi Dress from Stitch Fix.

Papermoon Terren Maxi Dress

I didn't care for the print on this dress right when I pulled it out of the box, but I have a rule that whatever I receive, I try on anyway, just to be sure. Sometimes you're surprised by how much you like something once you get it on. Unfortunately, not the case here. I still didn't like it. The dress fit well and the length was good, but I just didn't like the pattern. Also, there was elastic in the waist to cinch it in and it's exposed on the inside of the dress, so it was really scratchy. I tried this one on for Jeff and he said he liked it, but I just didn't like it myself enough to keep. 

So, just to recap, I kept 3/5 items from this fix: Just Black Tatyana Distressed Shorts, Papermoon Salen Knit Top, and Bay to Baubles Eugenia Triple Stone Earrings. I love all three of those pieces and I'm super happy I kept them! I spent just under $100 total for keeping those three items. Gotta love summer for less expensive pieces! I returned both dresses. 

Now, here's the photos of the items my Mom received. I just took photos of her things lying flat on the countertop, and I don't remember what the item names are for some of them, so bare with me!

First, this necklace:

Gorjana necklace from Stitch Fix.

 I really liked this necklace and if for some reason she wouldn't have wanted to keep it, I would have bought it from her! Very pretty.

Donna Morgan Dress

 There are a lot of cute, very flattering Donna Morgan dress styles. Just type it into your Pinterest search and you'll see what I mean. This style would have been really great on my mom but it was way too big, especially through the bust. She returned it.

Renee C Skirt

Mom's style card called this a maxi skirt but in actuality, it hit her sort of mid-calf, and she's not tall. Again, there are a lot of cute Renee C skirts to be found from Stitch Fix, but this one wasn't the one. Besides the odd length, it was really see through and too tight. I thought it might have been cute as a swimsuit cover on the beach, but that's not really Mom's thing. Or mine either. This one got returned.

Something I'm calling the Weird Crochet Top...

I don't know. Mom didn't really say much about this one. I wasn't seeing it either. It definitely could not have been worn on its own, although it was actually the only piece Mom got that actually fit her. I thought it could have been cute layered over a gray tank top, but in the end, neither of us were feeling it. This one was sent back, too.

Blue Sleeveless Top--

 This one was a really lovely color, which, again, would have looked stunning on my Mom but... it was waaaaay too big! Honestly, I think she needs to adjust the sizing in her style profile and maybe even mark for petite sizes. I thought about trying this top on for myself, but didn't because I had received a cobalt blue top that was similar in a previous fix that I really liked (more on this later!) and didn't think I needed this, too. Plus, it looked like it might have been too big for me, too.

So, out of Mom's five items, she kept just the necklace. She was able to use a gift card for that, so it was basically free for her!

 
I know this post got really long, but hang in here with me for one more thing. I just want to take a minute to share about Stitch Fix's awesome Customer Service. So, you know how I just mentioned I had a similar cobalt blue top to the one my Mom just got? Here it is, from my April fix:

I had worn this top several times and then finally went to wash it and it shrank. A lot. I had followed the care instructions to the T and washed it delicate/hand wash, then hung it to dry. When I went to put it on recently, I could barely fit it over my head, it had shrunk so much. (Guess I should have given Mom's top a try after all!)

The next day, I emailed Stitch Fix Customer Service just to see what they could do, not really expecting much. The Customer Service Rep, Rachael, who handled my issue responded very quickly to my email and said they didn't have another top in my size they could send, but that they could refund me for this top. She even attached a pre-paid shipping label so all I had to do was print the label and package up the shirt to send it back. Wow!

Even when a fix item goes bad, Stitch Fix Customer Service saves the day! Things like this make me want to keep shopping with these guys and keep referring them to my friends and family. I've been so happy with Stitch Fix and the Customer Service is just the icing on the cake!

Hope you enjoyed this Stitch Fix review! If you think you'd like to sign up to give Stitch Fix a try yourself, please use my referral code to do so! Click here: https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/4005981

Thanks for reading! Have a great day, everyone!

Stitchfix May 2015 Review

It's time again for another Stitch Fix box opening and review on the blog!

I came across this article from the Harvard Business Review recently that goes more in-depth on the how and the why of Stitch Fix: What Stitch Fix Figured Out About Mass Customization, but the basic gist of it is that someone else picks out clothes for you so you don't have to go shopping. You sign up and fill out a style profile, then schedule your fix. Your stylist chooses five items to send you, then you're charged a $20.00 styling fee when your fix ships. You're not obligated to keep any of the five items you receive in your fix, so anything you don't want you can return in a mailing envelope, which is included in your box. You have three days to try everything on and decide, then send back what you don't want. Your $20.00 fee is credited toward the cost of the items you keep. And if you get a Stitch Fix Bingo (keeping all five items) you also get 25% off your total. It's totally convenient, super fun, and the clothes are of nice quality. At the very least, I recommend going on and filling out your style profile so that you can have a better idea of what you might like when you're out shopping for yourself.

Let's move on to my fix! This was my seventh fix, and the third time with my stylist, Anna. This time, I specifically asked for summer tops, and dresses and jewelry to wear for summer weddings. I also noted that I'd be looking for bright colors and bold patterns. I really think Anna took my request to heart and I could see thoughtfulness in her selections for me, as well as reference to my Stitchfix Pinterest board.  I keep my board updated for each fix I schedule, adding and deleting so that it is a well-edited representation of what I like and what I'm looking for. I think doing so makes a big difference in the quality of the fixes I receive.

Here's what I received this time:

My stylist definitely did not skimp on the bright colors and patterns!

Daniel Rainn Judith Spaghetti Strap Blouse
Collective Concepts Lydia Floral Print Keyhole Blouse
Gilli Mattie Mixed Print Crossback Maxi Dress
Leota Dariah Printed Dress
31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace

Since the weather is nice right now, I decided it would be fun to do my "photo shoot" outdoors with the smiley barn in the background for some of the shots. I've gotten a little better at using my phone and self timer to get my shots, but I could still use a little improvement... Enjoy the photos! Let me know what you think of the clothes!

First up, let's have a look at the 31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace.

31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace from Stitch Fix.
Very cute packaging and awesome backstory!

 This was something I specifically requested in my note to Anna-- some jewelry from 31 Bits. It's a project Stitch Fix is working on with artisans from Uganda, who make all the jewelry for this line by hand from recycled materials. By keeping and purchasing this necklace (which I did) I am helping support the artisans, who are earning a fair wage. Love the story. Read the card the sent with my necklace below:

Information card for 31 Bits jewelry from Stitch Fix

I don't normally like chunky necklaces and jewelry, but again, I loved that I could feel good about purchasing this, knowing that I'm helping someone. The color is neutral and will go with anything and everything, which you'll see in the rest of my photos-- I wore this necklace with each of my remaining pieces. I do really like the look of the necklace, and that it is versatile, easy to wear, and comfortable. Status: Kept!

Next, Daniel Rainn Judith Spaghetti Strap Blouse, worn with my own jeans and the 31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace.

Daniel Rainn Judith Spaghetti Strap Blouse and 31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace from Stitch Fix.

This top was light and breezy for summer and I could see definite inspiration from my Pinterest board as to why Anna chose this for me. It's hard to tell in the photos, but it's actually a lot too big for me. I had to cinch the straps way up and sort of pinch it in the back so that I could even wear it for these pictures. I don't love coral-tone colors for my skin tone, so to have it right up by my face wasn't good. Overall, I just felt like it was too big and too sparse and, well, I just didn't really like this piece that much. Status: Returned.

Collective Concepts Lydia Floral Print Keyhole Blouse and 31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace.

Collective Concepts Lydia Floral Print Keyhole Blouse and 31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace from Stitch Fix.

I had this top pinned on my Pinterest board because I had seen it around on others' reviews and thought I would like it. I do really like the pattern on this blouse and the fabric was really silky and soft, even though I think it was polyester. I also like the details of this blouse: pleats down center-front, nice detail on back shoulder, contrast fabric on the shoulders, and the keyhole front. But again, this top was probably at least one size too big for me. It felt like I was wearing a tent. And the keyhole opening was actually pretty low--I'd definitely have to wear a cami underneath and who wants to wear two shirts during hot summer months? If this had been a size smaller I may have kept it, but I just didn't love it as much in person as I thought I would. Not enough to request an exchange of size from Customer Service. Status: Returned.

Gilli Mattie Mixed Print Crossback Maxi Dress and 31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace.

Gilli Mattie Mixed Print Crossback Maxi Dress and 31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace from Stitch Fix

I have been requesting summer dresses to wear to weddings for a few fixes now and this time Anna sent me two to choose from. This was the first one I put on and it was super comfortable and fit perfectly. Even the length was good, which is a bit surprising because I have short legs! When I first tried this one on, I thought it was a keeper. It has a flattering cut, and was actually slimming on me, emphasizing my waist and not my (large!) booty. This dress also has some interesting cut-outs with the cross-back. The cut and material is placed just right, though, so that you can still wear a normal bra. Perfect!

The one thing that bothered me about this dress was that the pattern didn't match up at the side seam. For some, this is nitpicky, but for me, it just wouldn't cut it. To me, the fact that there wasn't enough attention to quality and detail to match the pattern just cheapened the whole look and made it seem like something I'd buy at a discount store. So, even though it was pretty flattering on me overall, and at first I thought this was the keeper of the bunch, I sent this one back.  Status: Returned.

Last but not least, Leota Dariah Printed Dress and 31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace.

Leota Dariah Printed Dress and 31 Bits Citron Escape Beaded Necklace from Stitch Fix.
Also shown with my own denim jacket from Eddie Bauer, my cowboy boots, the dogs, a smiley barn, and some of my own jewelry from Lia Sophia.

I had some fun with this dress! This dress at first sight, I wasn't sure about. I thought the pattern looked too busy and that it "wasn't me." But again, the cut of this dress was absolutely perfect for me. This dress fits me like it was made just for me-- felt like a custom order! And the material feels luxurious. It's a high-end polyester/spandex blend that behaves like a silk crepe. The drape and flow is beautiful. For some reason, I was planning on sending this dress back and keeping the maxi, but when I tried these on for my husband's opinion, he convinced me to keep this one instead. I wore it that very same night (Saturday) to a wedding and received TONS of compliments. Here's another photo, taken by Jeff, as we headed to town for the wedding:

Leota Dariah Printed Dress from Stitch Fix.

Anna suggested wearing this Leota dress to a summer wedding with a bold clutch and my favorite heels. Well... I don't own any heels and it's Montana, so that meant cowboy boots and a denim jacket! But, I'm already thinking ahead to my next trip to Washington D.C. and I know I'll be able to take this dress a bit more formal for Senate office visits. Also, as I thought more about the pattern of this dress, I was reminded quite a bit of Boden USA, which is another clothing company whose style I really love and have referenced in my Stitch Fix profile and Pinterest board. Again, Anna has noticed and remembered the details!

The other awesome thing about Leota as a company is that they make all their garments in New York City. I am a big fan of USA made clothing because it means I know the workers are making a fair wage and it keeps jobs here at home! Because of all the amazingness of this dress, I justified the high price tag of around $140. I know I'll wear this a ton and get my money's worth. Status: Definite Keeper!

So this time I kept two items out of five from my fix. My next fix is scheduled for late June to arrive in Iowa. I'm having it shipped to my parents house because Jeff and I will be visiting at that time and my mom, who is also into Stitch Fix, will be getting her fix at the same time. We plan to open ours and try everything on together. Should be fun!

Here's my style cards from this fix. 

If you're interested in getting started, please Click Here to fill out your style profile and schedule your first fix. Yes, I do get a small referral fee if you sign up. It'll go to feed my Stitch Fix addiction! But seriously, it's super convenient and lots of fun, especially if you loathe shopping, as I do.

So what did you think of my fix? Did I keep the right things? What would you have done?

Stitch Fix April 2015 Review

Hey, Hey!

It's Stitch Fix time again!

If you're not familiar with Stitch Fix, it's a really neat way to shop for clothes wherein you let someone else do just about all of the work for you. You schedule when you want your shipment, or "fix," and write a brief note describing what you might be looking for. Stitch Fix assigns you with a stylist who picks out five pieces they think will be just right for you based on your size and style preferences. When your fix ships, you're charged a $20.00 fee. Once it arrives, you have three days to try everything on and decide what to keep or send back. You're only charged for what you keep, and the $20.00 styling fee is credited toward the cost of your keepers. If you keep nothing, you're out your $20.00. If you keep everything, you get 25% off your total, less the $20.00.  Best of all, you don't have to go shopping. You get unique, quality pieces delivered right to your door.

Sounds pretty sweet, right? If you think so, then consider signing up for your own fix. And, I'd love it if you sign up using my referral code: https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/4005981. If you sign up using my link, I get a $25.00 credit when your fix ships.  Thanks in advance! I know you'll love it if you try it out. :)

This is my sixth fix and this time around I asked for white jeans, a classic denim jacket, and a dress or two for my nephew's baptism and summer weddings. I also asked to have the same stylist as last time, Anna.



My stylist definitely followed my requests! I had requested a denim jacket, white jeans, and a dress or two, each of which were in my fix. I also got two tops to mix and match with items from my fix. I could see directly how my stylist picked items for me based on my requests and on my Pinterest Board. Here's what I got in my fix this time:

41HAWTHORN Jace Chevron Print Dress
MAVI Kalie Distressed Denim Jacket
PIXLEY Miandra Embroidered Top
BRIXON IVY Priya Abstract Print Floral Knit Back Tank
MAVI Aiden Skinny Jean

Without further ado, let's take a look at some of the items and outfits I got!

Outfit One, featuring: MAVI Kalie Distressed Denim Jacket, PIXLEY Miandra Embroidered Top, and MAVI Aiden Skinny Jean. 

Let's start with the pants. MAVI Aiden Skinny Jean. I requested white jeans. These are actually not white but a very pale gray. I wasn't opposed to the color upon seeing it, even though it wasn't true white, but when I put them on, it was just enough of an off-white that it looked awkwardly similar to skin color. When I walked into the other room to show my husband this outfit, he said he didn't see that I had pants on at first. That's a problem. They're also probably one size too small and I thought overall not the most flattering on me. I would have felt self-conscious wearing them to school and since that's the primary place I'd probably wear them, that wasn't going to work.  I may tell my stylist to try again. Or maybe I'll search online and see if I can find some white jeans that are a little thicker and more of a true white. I'd like some to wear for spring and summer.  VERDICT: RETURNED.

Next, MAVI Kalie Distressed Denim Jacket. I really liked the color and sandblasting on this jacket. It's pretty much what I was looking for when I requested a denim jacket. The problem with this jacket is that it's just enough too small that it's not going to work. I can't even come close to buttoning it and it was too tight through the shoulders, even unbuttoned. This is nitpicky, but I also didn't like the collar construction. If it's not perfect, I don't keep it, so... VERDICT: RETURNED.

Third piece in this outfit, PIXLEY Miandra Embroidered Top. I knew I would like this item as soon as I peaked and looked ahead at what I'd be getting in my fix. I was not disappointed when it came in! I love anything cobalt or royal blue-- it's a flattering color on me, AND it's one of our school colors. I have a lot in my wardrobe already to wear with this top, and I could dress it up or down. The size is just right on me, too. VERDICT: DEFINITE KEEPER! I wore this shirt to school today with some gray capris, a yellow cardigan and gold jewelry. I love bright primary colors!

Next item: BRIXON IVY Priya Abstract Print Floral Knit Back Tank

BRIXON IVY Priya Abstract Print Floral Knit Back Tank- This piece was clearly the favorite of my dog, Harvey, as he photobombed each of my photo attempts! But seriously, I really like this top, too. It's not something I would have picked out because for some reason florals don't speak to me when I'm shopping in a store, but the fit was great and I found that I have many items already in my closet that I can layer with this top to make different outfits. I actually wore this top on Saturday evening to a wedding with the gray jeans that are pictured, a blue cardigan, bronze jewelry, white jean jacket and my cowboy boots. (It's more than appropriate to wear jeans and boots to a wedding in small town Montana, fyi. I love this state!) VERDICT: DEFINITE KEEPER!

Lastly...
41HAWTHORN Jace Chevron Print Dress

41HAWTHORN Jace Chevron Print Dress. I styled this dress with a red belt I already had, just to break it up a little and help define my waist. These photos aren't that bad, but the dress was actually pretty unflattering on me. The pleats made my hips look bigger than they are and my husband said I looked, "wide" and "frumpy." The dress was also too big through the armholes, and makes it look like I have uniboob. Just wasn't a winner all around. I did ask for a dress or two but this one just wasn't going to work.

Here's a close up of the fabric for the Jace Dress.

It's actually a knit material and to me felt kind of flimsy and cheap. If I'm thinking about it from a production standpoint, it's probably inexpensive to buy compared to a woven, and stretchy, making it more likely to be flattering on many body types. Just not this one. VERDICT: Returned.

Overall, I kept two out of five items for about $80 spent. I'm really happy with my decisions on what to keep and what to send back. Again, I only keep what's PERFECT. What's the point of settling? Then you have a closet full of stuff that you never wear, and that's why I started doing Stitch Fix in the first place! Was my fix stylish, convenient, delightful, and fun? Absolutely! Did I love opening my box and trying everything on in the comfort of my own home? You bet. Did I feel like my stylist chose items that were curated for me? Definitely.

What did you think of my fix? What were your favorite pieces?

Here's the style cards and note that came with my fix.

I am planning on getting one more fix in May, then I'll probably take June and July off. Since I'm not in school those months, I don't have as much going on that I need nicer clothes for. I mostly wear t-shirts when I'm at home on the farm anyway. Then I can pick back up in August in time for back to school.

Thanks for reading, everyone! Don't forget to submit me some photos of places you love and/or are thankful for that I can use in an upcoming Thankful Thursday post! For more details on that, read my previous post! :)