New J.Crew Items: Part II (tissue tier tanks, flower art tee, canvas tote)

Part II of the new J.Crew Spring roll-out items that I purchased is a little late in posting, but here it goes...

Tissue Tier Tanks: $39.50

Comes in light pewter, white, sweet guava

This is sweet guava in a Small.  I tried a Medium for longevity, but the neckline plunged and hung off of me to the point where I would never be able to fill it out or make it work.  Runs TTS but might be a little too low cut for ladies with a lot going on up top. (aka: not me!)

This is the white with a Melon colored cardi over it from last year.  Not sure I'm going to keep the white since I won't be able to wear it much longer (not until August at least) and $39 is a lot for a tan top!  These colors just make me happy together .... it's almost like an instant spray tan.... very flattering!

Hand-Cut Flower Art Tee: $45

Comes in light ginger, white, dark chartreuse

This is a size Medium.  Normally I would buy a Small.  This runs TTS to a little large.  The fabric is way more forgiving than painter, tissue, or favorite tees.  I have the sweet guava tank underneath here... not sure I'd actually wear it this way.  My PS also recommended putting the Vintage V-Tee in Moroccan Spice underneath.... it looks good that way, too but I didn't snap a pic.

Notice how this Melon colored cardi from last year makes the stitching on the flowers pop? Love it!

Canvas Tote: $10

Not online yet that I can find.

I just loved the idea of having a reusable bag with my favorite store on it! Actually, JC's paper shopping bags are super nice, but if that nasty rumor about the shopping bags becoming crappier ends up being true, thes canvas bags will have to be our fall-back! I can see using this for just about anything from a beach bag to the gym... and of course, as a shopping bag! I consider this my "returning-online-purchases" JC bag!

Lot's more to come soon!  Thanks for stopping by!

Banana Republic: Silk Ruffle Front Top in Seafoam

Silk Ruffle Front Top: $69

Available in Ivory and Seafoam

100% Silk; Hand Wash Cold

SOLD OUT online

Seafoam color... I really love this color although I don't think it compliments pale skin (or maybe just MY skintone) perfectly.  Also, there is no zipper.... making it slighty more challenging to put on, but no weird zipper bump on the side.

Not too 'boaty', even in a Small (sans baby in the belly, I would have gotten an XS)

With white Jackie.  I think you could also pair it with a light pink or lavendar for Easter.  Do the ruffles look like a hot mess?  I truely can't decide.

Here's the deal:  I'm not sure if I'm keeping this or not.  In fact, after taking the pics for the blog, I put it back in a bag with the receipt with the intentions of returning it.  But, after doing this post, I'm kind of changing my mind and have a new fondness for it.  A major reason I'm considering keeping it now is because it's hand washable.  That is a difference maker for me.

I am definitely swayed by the color, which I love and don't have any camis or tanks in yet.  Although, do I love this design?  And, will I love it come August and Sept when I'll get the most wear out of it AFTER I have my baby?

Chime in:  Should I keep this?  I got it for about $55 after BR's latest promo.

UPDATE:  Check out this Silk Dahlia Tank at Ann Taylor on sale for $29.  This is a great alternative on the cheap... sizes are going FAST!

Valentine's Day and V-Day Eve Outfits ala J.Crew Watercolor Potpourri Scarf

Just had to share my outfits from the last two nights.  Couldn't resist wearing my new scarf both nights .... I think I'm mildly obsessed with it!  It totally works with bright colors, but also with black. That's the only way I can justify paying FP!!

Valentine's Eve my parent's watched our two-year-old and we headed to Ruth's Chris for a late dinner and to watch the end of the Kentucky V. Tennessee game at the bar.  I changed about 50 times because nothing is really fitting great right now and ended up wearing a stretchy black dress I got from New York & Co. about 4 years ago for $5!

Valentine's Day we took the little guy with us to eat at Mitchell's Fish Market, so I went a little more casual with jeans.  Plus, a snow storm was moving in.

Shirt: J.Crew Frances Cami

Cardigan: Banana Merino Crystal Button Cardi

Jeans: Paige Premium

Jewelry: F21

Garnet Hill: What's the Deal? I'm Intrigued!

I ran across a catalog sitting on the counter at my parent's house last night that I apparently don't get (this must be the only catalog that doesn't get delivered to my home!) from Garnet Hill.  Intrigued, I began flipping through the front section of the catalog, which consisted of women's clothing (the back part is home related items).

Much to my surprise, I find myself wanting to cheat on my long-time boyfriend J. Crew with some of Garnet Hill's new Spring items!  After much deliberation on their website, I've come up with my top picks:

Modern Merino Cardigan in

Blush Modern Floral - $88

(sorry for the bad pick, go look on there website!)

Backordered until 6/10

and in

Berry Harvest Floral - $39 (sale)

Currently Available

Flamenco Knit Top

$38 (there are 3 great colors in this .... I want them ALL!)

Backordered until 4/15/10

Ruched Three-Quarter-Sleeve Tee

$44 (or 2/$80)

There are many colors I want in this.  Look closely at the neckline .... gorgeous!

Backordered

Here's the thing.... well, a couple of things:

1.) The shipping from this place is as bad as good ole J. Crew.  The more you spend, the more it ends up being.  With my shopping cart brimming with 5 items, shipping is a WHOPPING $17!!  Really?  AND, you have to return by mail.   Grrr.... if only companies knew the value in free, cheap, or flat-rate shipping!!

  **In fact, to go on a tangent here: I am WAY more compelled to purchase anything (and more than I really need) from a website that offers free/cheap shipping and FREE return shipping.  This is HUGE!  In my humbled opinion, companies are shooting themselves in the foot by charging outrageous shipping.  When I see it on the final step of checkout, I'm much more likely to forget about the order all together and head to a different website.  It might not be much, but at least there is almost always a Free Shipping code for J.Crew if you spend $150 .... and as a Luxe Banana cardholder, I get free shipping all the time.  {breathe}  Ok, sorry, I'm done.

2.) EVERYTHING cute from the catalog seems to be backordered.  And not just a few weeks.... the first cardigan I pictured is scheduled to be available JUNE 15th!  GEEZZ!  By that time I'll be a8 months preggo and barely able to fit into anything!!   So.... is this even worth the hassle?

3.) There doesn't seem to be a ton of coupons or online promo codes for this site, which is kind of a must for me before I'll pull the trigger on ANYTHING online.  I might even settle for a free shipping code.

4.) I'm not sure of the fit.  As we know, some online catalogs offer what they call a "Small" that is really a size 6/8 and nothing smaller, and the fit is termed "generous".  Well, that doesn't work for me at all.  Garnet Hill has an XS available in most items and lists it as a size 2/4.  This might work.


Why I'm considering an order:

1.) Maybe I should try to think outside of my J.Crew box.  Maybe.  I'm not convinced YET.  It's nice to see some new, fresh colors and patterns ... and maybe I wouldn't see other women on the street wearing the same clothes as me!

2.) I'd like to compare the t-shirt and merino quality to my current loves .... like Ann Taylor, J.Crew, etc... with the direction quality at most retailers has been heading these days (hint: down) I'm interested to see how Garnet Hill's quality is.

3.)  The prints are great and styles are cute .... online and in the catalog, that is.  This makes me curious, very curious to see and touch them in person.

Bottom Line:  I'm an online shopaholic, so this is just another exciting excuse for me to shop... but maybe it's totally worth it.  I'm considering placing a small order to test the waters.  Have any of your ordered from Garnet Hill?  If so, I'd love to hear what you have to say.  Anyone have a great coupon or promo code to use?

If I do place an order, I plan on sharing an in-depth review of the experience and clothing here, so I'll keep you posted!

New J.Crew Items: Part I (Ruffle Henley, watercolor potpourri scarf, slub v-neck)

Well, my self-imposed shopping ban (aka: I-don't-need-to-buy-anything-right-now-because-I'll-only-be-able-to-fit-in-it-for-a-month-or-two shopping ban) didn't last very long once the new stuff hit the stores the past couple of weeks.  I didn't think it would be a big deal to browse the store considering the last roll-out didn't interest me at all, but boy was I wrong.

I think I get sucked into Spring stuff every year because the colors are fun and it just gives me something to look forward to in my closet!  The last few years I've preferred JC's 'resort' roll out over their following 'spring' roll out (ie: giraffe shorts from last year, etc...) but that's just me. 

The only thing that sucks about trying on Spring/Summer clothing in February is that the shorts and tanks reveal much more of that lack-of-tan, probably-haven't-shaved-in-a-while (at least not paying much attention to accuracy if I do) and maybe-I-need-to-hit-the-gym-a-little-harder body that's been hiding under sweaters and jeans that past few months.

That being said, I steer far away from trying on any bathing suits or short-shorts until I can at least hit the tanning bed a few times.... but since I'm pregnant, that may have to wait until after we go to California for Spring Break.  Bummer.  So it's capri's and jeans for me until then! :)

On to the good stuff:

Tuxedo Ruffle Painter Henley - $39.50

I really loved all the colors in this shirt but the lilac color (hyacinth), which is funny because that's the color I initially purchased... but I have to admit,  lilac really is not my color.  So I ended up going back and getting white because I don't have many cute white tops, but I'll also get the dark pewter color if it makes it to the sale section.  I plan on wearing this with a tank underneath to help with the see-through issue.  I bought a Small which is a bit clingy in the waist area (although, honestly, everything is clingy in my waist area these days!)  This runs TTS.

Vintage Slub V-Neck Tee - $29.50

I freakin' love the fit and colors of this shirt.  I really want the neon rose, wild plum, and breeze.  I purchased a size Small in moroccan spice and feel this shirt runs TTS for a non-fitted tee.  I'm in love with the sexy but not slutty neckline, slim but not clingy fit, and perfect weight fabric.  Can't say enough about this tee.  Love it!

Possible Name: Watercolor Potpourri Scarf in Papaya - $59.00

(I say "possible" because I really have no idea what the name of this it, but here is the tag info as I haven't seen it online:  Style# 23288  Color PAP)

More pics with slub v-neck...

love it with white...

and with lavender tank from last year.

I honestly still cannot believe I spent $60 on a dang scarf, but I'm obsessed with the look and feel of this!  Not only will it compliment so many casual pieces and colors, it also has black in the pattern, so I plan on wearing it as a scarf/ shaw with a little black dress!  LOVE IT!

Ok, that's all I've got for tonight.  Check back soon for reviews of the Vintage Stripe Bateau top and tiered tanks!

LOFT 50% off Sale Finds and Current President's Day Promo

Before I forget, I found 2 really great sweaters and a pair of earrings at ATL at the start of their "Extra 50% off Sale" promotion.  I'm not sure if they are still offering this in-store, but  it's definitely worth a look around your next time in the store. 

Cowl Neck Sweater - Size Medium - $15

Nothing super-special about this sweater, but I like that it's low cut enough in the neckline that it doesn't look like a conservative turtle neck.

Lounge Full-Zip Tunnel Neck Sweater - Size Small - $19

Loving the length of this butt-covering sweater for over skinny jeans and tights!

Can't go wrong with these great little fish-hook earrings.  They are set in gold. $8

ATL is currently running a President's Day promotion of "50% off Select Spring New Arrivals". Unfortunately, the items they selected aren't exactly the ones I was hoping for, but these are some of my faves.

Knit Dress w/ Pleats - $34.75

Voile Trim Scoopneck - $14.75

Basic V-Neck Tee - $16.50

Ok, this one isn't 50% off, but I'd like to see how it compares to my current obsession from J.Crew:

Vintage Slub V-Neck Tee - $29.50

I want this tee in like every color, but I might check out the ATL version the next time I'm in the store to see if it's a nice 1/2 price alternative.

LOFT is also offering free shipping on $125+ orders.  JC is still running the "Private Sale" of 20% off any order of $175 or more with promo code SHHH through Sunday ... but not free shipping.  Happy Shopping!

Colgate 360 Sonic Power Toothbrush: Good Vibrations

So, this is not so much an object of my closet's affection, but I'm pretty impressed just the same.  I'm usually not much of a toothbrush snob.  I had a brush (haha, get it?) with an electronic one when I was in gradeschool, but that didn't last long before we through it away (the damn thing would turn on randomly in the middle of the night and wake everyone up .... possessed!)  So from that point on I've basically gone back and forth between the "newest and greatest" manual toothbrushes (it seems they come out with one every month, which times out perfect!) or whatever came in pink, or a buy-1-get-1 bonus, etc.... you get the picture.

I bought my first battery operated throw-away by accident a few months ago and really kind of liked it.  I didn't love it, mostly because I really like the little rubbery scrubber thing for your tongue on the back of the head like some toothbrushes do.  Anyway.

Most recently I purchased a Colgate 360 Sonic Power toothbrush 1.) I had a $1 coupon - score  and 2.) It came in a 2-pack for a better deal than just one.  Sold.  Colgate boats this toothbrush as "the first power toothbrush with a tongue and cheek cleaner" (I guess that's what the rubbery scrubber thing is actually called!)  You can check out the actual product page by clicking on the link above.

Advisory: I realize this is kind-of lame, but we all brush our teeth (err... hopefully), so I figure someone might actually find this review helpful/ mildly interesting!   I'm not suggesting this would be a stellar Valentine's Day gift or anything of the such, but I do love this toothbrush.  So, I will continue...

Upon using this brush for the first time, I noticed a big difference from the last battery operated/vibrating I had (different brand, can't remember).

1.) the vibrations, or the "sonic" power seemed much fast and stronger than my last one
2.) the bristles are soft and pliable, not hard and rough
3.) it seems easy to reach the very back teeth without too much of a fuss
4.) there is a rubbery handle to hold on to, which makes brushing easier, and
5.) there is a little tongue scrubber thingy on the back of the head of the brush - bonus!

So far, I've had the brush about a week and still loving it.  I cannot compare it to the more expensive non-disposible options (such as Sonicare which I would LOVE to try, but just don't have the funds!) but compared to the other battery operated versions I've tried, this one is the winner!  Happy brushing!

{Exciting Announcement} and Slight Shift in Topix... maybe?!

As some of you may already know (who read my other mommy-related blog) I am expecting our second baby August 1st!  And since I post many IRL pics of clothing, I figured I better go ahead and let the cat out of the bag before it becomes... shall we say, obvious!

I was 15 weeks on Sunday and surprisingly I'm still wearing most of my regular clothing (just with pants unbuttoned and fastened with a ponytail holder) ... which is much different than my experience with Connor since my butt and hips spread so quickly that by 6 weeks I HAD to wear maternity pants just to get them above my knees!  ahhh!

Tummy at 13 weeks... and my new favorite Juicy PJ's I got from my mom for Christmas!

I mention that there {might} be a shift in topics only because it seems that fashion might not be on the top of my priority list for the next few months.  However, I've found that old habits die hard and even yesterday I was in the JC dressing room trying to figure out what (if any) of the new items I can size-up in and wear through early spring.

So, with that said, I have a feeling there won't be much of a change in the blog, but I'll be highlighting some of the more versatile pieces I find, as well as cute maternity gear!  Just as with the first time I was pregnant (3 years ago) it's difficult for me to find cute, non-tent-like maternity clothing in a decent price range. 

Example: Old Navy has some cute stuff for cheap, but the quality isn't ALWAYS great (althought I love their preggo swimwear)  A Pea in the Pod is pricey and doesn't have a store anywhere in my area.  LOFT is online only in my area and mostly has just work-looking-stuff.  Motherhood Maternity, Sears, JCPenney is cheap but BLAH!  etc....

During my previous pregnancy, I purchased most of my everyday and work clothing at Target from their Liz Lange line and from Old Navy.  Unfortunately, all the ON's in my area have phased out all their maternity sizes from the store, so now you have to buy AND return by mail. BUMMER!  So, this time around I anticipate focusing on Target.  As for the items where quality and fit is a bit more important (aka: jeans) I definitely threw down more dough (and it's totally worth it!)

So, for now I plan on staying my my regular clothing for as long as possible (meaning I can still shop JC, AT, LOFT, etc... for now!) and then trying to get as much use out of my old maternity clothes as I can!  Luckily, as far as JC goes, I can still focus on jewelry, shoes, handbags, etc.... plus, it will still be HOT in August after I have the baby, so I can wear some spring/summer stuff than, too!

Have any great ideas on where to shop cute maternity dresses, workout gear, etc...?  Please comment here!

J.Crew'let' Finds and Ann Taylor "Favorite Cardigan"

I never get to go to the J.Crew Outlet / Factory stores more than once or twice a year because we don't have any close to my house.  But, when we go out of town I'm always sure to at least browse what's on the shelves.

I guess my facination with the outlets has greatly dwindled over the past few years as I've become more and more obsessed with J.Crew clothing.  Why?  For one, the clothing is mostly made just for the outlet store (this is odd to me).  Two, I find that, for the most part, the quality, fabric, and fit just don't cut it and the prices on these look-alike-pieces just aren't cheap enough for the compromise in all those areas. 

I've seen other bloggers write about finding real JC clothing at the outlets - maybe overstocks or last season items - which is cool, but I've never been so lucky.  I think it helps if you live close and can scout the outlet more often.

Anyway, these purchases are, again, from our trip to NY a couple weeks back.  I did find a few great things that I thought were worth the price.  I can't remember the prices exactly (but everything was under $40 for sure) and I just made up the names of the pieces (you'll be able to tell ;)...

Sanur Dress - Even with my small chest, a medium is a must in this dress to not 'lose it' when I bend over.  I LOVE this color and cannot wait to tote this to the beach this summer!

Marled Gray Thin Sweatershirt - Freakin' love this top!  Doesn't feel like an outlet/factory store item at all.  This is an XS, although a Small would have worked, I liked the way the XS looked better in the arm area.  The top is just long enough to wear with leggings... bonus!

Tortoise Belt and Long Black Perfect Ann Taylor Cardigan - I really didn't need the belt, the I'm loving brown and black together right now.  The cardigan is great.  A nice midweight fabric and super long (great with leggings! yea!) on sale for $49 + extra 25% off sale.

My mom already had it in a Small Petite and I loved it but wanted it a bit longer to wear with tights/leggings. So, I ran to the store and had them find it for me in a regular Small.  I AM a bit peeved with their policy on shipping sale items ... they've gone the way of J.Crew (and others) where you have to pay shipping if they find an item for you that's on sale at another store (only $7.50 - which is WAY better than JC) but at least they WILL DO A SEARCH FOR AN ITEM THAT IS ON SALE (uhh emm - JCREW, are you listening?)   I know this is something that annoys many of you, as well!

On a side note, the nice SA's at my local JC do offer to do searches for me on sale stuff if I would like them to.  I've never had them do it, but I'm pretty sure it involves them personally calling around to other stores ... which would suck.... but I think it's nice of them to offer.  If you call on the red phone or the catalog, however, they will not "Find it For You" as advertised if the item is on sale.   Bummer!!

Question: What is the difference between a J.Crew Outlet and Factory Store?  Is there a difference?  Just wondering if anyone out there knew the answer! 

Target Chunky Pearl Cluster Necklace - Ooh La La!

Oh Target, how I love thee.

As if Target needed anything more to draw me into it's tangled web of wonderfulness, most in our area now have a Starbucks.  Yea!  (just add another $4 to my standard Target bill)  And as I stopped by the Starbucks during my last trip to Target, I spotted these absolutely amazing,  wonderfully life-simplifying gadgets....

Cart Cup Holder!

This thing will seriously change my shopping experience!  Maybe this isn't news to a lot of you .... but to me, this is big news!

And my shopping trip got even better when I ran accross this beauty just before making it to the checkout (last minute crap is how $100 trips turn into $200 trips almost every time, right?) and I couldn't put it down.  I needed to put it down, but I couldn't.  Even at $39.99, I couldn't put it down (and I consider 40 bucks for Target glam a bit high).

I can't find this puppy online, so I'm calling it the Chunky Pearl Cluster Necklace.  Love it!

Anyway, when I got up to the register, it rang up as $9.99 - so apparently it was on sale and just not marked!  Score!