Another Round in the Anthro Fitting Room

This time brought to you by the letters D&H. My husband was nice enough to drive me to Anthropologie this morning and then take the boys to a nearby park so they could play while I had my own fun in the fitting room.

The Camilla Dress was one of the first things to catch my eye. I absolutely love white eyelet anything, and this dress was just beautiful. The material felt like a really nice weight/quality and it was just impossibly feminine. I tried the XS and I'm sad to say that I thought this dress looked prettier in the fitting room, then I do now looking back at the picture. It was too big in the armholes, and a bit baggy around the bust as well. I couldn't remember if this one came in Petite sizes, and when I opened the door to ask the SA, she said no, and it was too bad since the dress I had on was too big. Since she didn't try to talk me into the dress, I made a last ditch effort with my husband who I had look at the picture in the car before we drove away. He said it wasn't flattering on me at all :( :( :( It really was so pretty...Could alterations give me a better fit up top? I'm still grasping at straws on this one!

Next up is the much buzzed about Vappu Dress

Funny thing is that I wasn't sold on this dress in the fitting room, but looking at the picture now, I'm all "Dang, I should have bought it!" Good thing for Free Shipping, right ;) My biggest reservation in the moment was the fact that I'm not sure I could wear a bra with this dress. It came down really low on the back, exposing the one I had on. I'm sure I could figure something out. It was darling. This is a size 0.

Moving on to skirts. The It's Your Move skirt in a size 0, I wish this had been elastic, or more snug in the waist. As it was, the extra room, made this sit low on my hips, and therefor, made the length hit at my knees. At $98 and not perfect, this was a no (plus, you'll see below that I bought a different white skirt). I'd reconsider it at sale time as it was super adorable and well made.
The Lane Change Skirt also in size 0, had the same problem in the waist. This skirt was also $98 but unlike the one above, is a big fat no, even on sale. The cut was not flattering on me at all. Sadly. It's cute, but IMO overpriced - it reminds me of a similar skirt I had in High School from American Eagle. I also thought the exposed zipper in the back looked really out of place and cheap. I still think this is really cute for others, but just doesn't work on me. The Do-Si-Do Skirt, now on sale for $30 is a steal. As Dea and Cat promise, it's much cuter in person then it was online. It's also too big in the waist, like it's predecessors causing it to be even longer on my barely 5ft frame. A few months ago I bought the Reed Shirtdress in the blue plaid and returned it because of fit, and the fact that it felt a bit too literal for a Suburban housewife...the pattern of this skirt kind of felt the same...


The top I have on is the Unveiled Tank, I don't see this color online, but it's a gorgeous rust that reminds me very much of the Sepia color from J. Crew. I adored the flattering fit on this one, and will need to get a better picture soon. Not only did I buy it, but I am *this* close to ordering it in a second color. $48 and so much fun detail? Perfect!

The last skirt, and the one I bought today is the Rah Rah Rumba in white. This skirt is just the right amount of volume, a workable length, and endlessly versatile with the tops already hanging in my closet. The one thing I didn't love was the contrasting elastic waistband, but I'll just cover it with a belt. Speaking of which, I did find the Looping Lanes at the store this morning - yay! Can we have a side conversation about this belt? IRL it looks a bit like...well, like a dog chewed the leather or something??? Thankfully, once on, you don't really noticed it's somewhat weathered appearance, but I have to admit it wasn't what I expected. Does anyone know what I am talking about? I thought it would be darker, smoother and less-pliable, but whatevs, I bought it ;)


Also, a quick note about the Bountiful Birds Blouse
On me, the size 0 was snug in the sleeves and a bit boxy everywhere else. Love the print, and will likely buy this one on sale. In general, square necklines aren't my thing, but this is cute enough to make an exception.

We're almost done! Phew, it was a marathon!

The Sailor & Sweetheart Sweater almost didn't make it into the fitting room with me. I knew there was no way I was going to spend $98 on it. But as I was halfway through the door to try things on, I went back and grabbed it. I can never resist a good bow. And you know what, I was right, there is no way I'm going to spend $98 because that is just not within my budget for casual little tops - however, on sale, I kind of think it works. Opinions? I think you'll either love or hate this one, and I'm leaning towards love. I think it really played up my hourglass figure with the way it hugged my curves. On the other hand, that is one loud bow on the girls, and the "gift" is already spoken for - lol. I tried the XS. What do you think, is it too suggestive?

ETA - Okay, so I just looked at the reviews on Anthro's site, and the comments from when Kim tried this one on, and now I don't know whether to laugh or cry that I actually liked it! I'll go with laugh - and no one feel the need to say something polite, I guess I know where the rest of the world stands on this one - omigoodness, TOO FUNNY!

I don't remember what jeans these are? They were on sale for $99. Is that an AG tag? I have no idea. I loved them. I wanted them. Did I make a mistake leaving them behind?

Finally, I had to try the Bees Favorite Blouse, on sale and sold out online. They only had size Small, which worked okay, except for the length. Yes, I had some slight gaping at the bust, but a cami would have solved that. The peter pan collar is cutie, cute, cute and I suppose I could have tucked it in? I wasn't madly in love with it though. And for $30ish bucks, I decided I'd rather have the Pessinus Garden Necklace, in silver - which I bought, put on in the car and have been wearing ever since. The Wayne, PA store had a bunch of both silver and gold if anyone is looking for it.

I hope everyone is enjoying their long weekend. I'd say I kicked mine off right with a trip to Anthropologie!

OOTD - To the Book Fair!

I love Scholastic Book Fairs! My first grader will no doubt bypass th book selection and load up on erasers, posters and overpriced bouncy balls...but I won't let that dampen my own enthusiasm.

My new Tiny Twines belt is appropriately named, this thing is tiny. On this particular pair of jeans, I can only get it buckled on the first hole. If nothing else it will keep me from over-indulging on Summer treats. I'm also wearing my new flip flops for the second day in a row - on the opposite side of the spectrum, my feet continue to flop right out of them when I walk. Good thing I'm not going far today. Just to the elementary school and hopefully to Target for my inserts and rubber grips ;) Happy Friday!

Items in this set:
Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Gingham Shirt - True Blue Check : Target, $7.50
Fossil Analog White MOP Dial Watch, $65
Beveled Button Studs, $12
Tiny Twines Belt, $38
LOFT: Search Results on white capri, $55

In Today's Mail - Circle the Globe Skirt & New Shoes

I have learned my lesson with full, poplin skirts. I will not Circle the Globe to find another one, rather I'll hope for this gorgeous teal to reappear on an

A-line.

And oh the teal! SO pretty! I love the color. I also really love the waistband on this skirt. The stitching detail, the comfy elastic and the width were all perfection (eta - I am wearing the size 0) Straight out of the box though it lost major points for wrinkles. Sure, I could iron this piece, but that defeats some of the purpose of an "easy" Summer skirt IMO. Still, the material I could deal with.

The obstacle I could not overcome with this skirt was it's volume. Look right above my left hand to see the "poof" factor happening in the back. I felt like Miss Muffet.I really wish the skirt had fit like this....
here's what was going on around back, to acheive the look I hoped for.
It pains me to see how cute this full style skirt looks on others. Color me teal green with envy for anyone who can make this one work.

In unrelated news, my Nordstrom order also arrived today. I listened to the sound advice and kept on keeping on until I found just the right pair for me. The BP Stella's are exactly what I wanted. The reviews are not exaggerating though when they say the soles of these shoes are slippery. I almost wiped out on my kitchen floor when I tried them on. I will majorly scuff them up on the driveway before I make any attempt to wear them in public.

And you all know how it goes, since I was placing an order anyway...I went ahead and grabbed these cute flip flops. They are very wide in the heel and I'll need to buy inserts for them, but they are so cute I put them on and wore them immediately.

I think the pair next to them is different enough in color and style to pick up next time. And with cute shoes, there is always a next time ;)

Rah Rah Sis Boom Ba

So my Pulsations Skirt is still single. I tried setting it up with the H&M tee, a cheap date for sure! However, that top clung to my tummy exposing flab I don't usually have a hard time disguising under clothing. Then I decided it should meet up with my recently acquired Feathery Tank. Initially, it seemed to work, but as they spent a little more time together some flaws began to come out. The top was too sheer, too big, too heavy. Sigh, the Pulsations Skirt is picky, picky. And the Feathery Tank is getting thrown back in the ocean. Being so cute, it will be okay, I'm sure the right one is out there for it and I hope they'll find each other ;)

You Again?

Some of you may recall that I went to Anthropologie a month ago with the intention of buying the Vala Jacket. When I tried it IRL, I had fit issues(see here), and was disappointed to leave it behind.

When it hit sale a couple of weeks ago, I felt drawn to it again, and kept looking it over on the website. That's when I noticed the review that mentioned cinching the ribbon in the back for a closer fit. Hello? Why did that never occur to me? To be honest, I didn't even realize that the ribbon was functioning until I read the review. The temptation to give this jacket a second chance, was more then I could resist.

This time, the Vala Jacket did right by me :)

Thank you, back ribbon closure.
Now I just need to figure out what to wear under it. Why can't I be one of those responsible shoppers that comes up with three styling ideas before they order something?

Seabound. Return Bound?

I was outside in the heat, vacuuming the backseat of my car when UPS pulled up - so I'm a bit flushed and frizzy....

Ok. So the Seabound Skirt is long.

But it swishes! Whee!
Please weigh in.

OOTD - I Really Do Need New Sandals. See?

My flip flops are totally not cutting it! I am in desperate need of black sandals. I have an ancient Nine West pair, but I've decided I hate them. Sort of like Sawyer hates his fisherman sandals and insists on wearing Crocs every day (sigh).

He wanted to be in the picture this morning, so we are partners in ugly-shoe crime....

Old Navy Ruched V-Neck Tee (I own this in numerous colors!)
H&M Skirt

Madden Girl Sandals

I know I've complained about my legs before, but they really are the body part I feel most self-conscious about. It's hard to find sandals that don't cut across your ankle. I'm fine wearing that style with pants, but not with bare legs.

For example, I should not buy these to wear with skirts and dresses

But these, instead.Except I like the Unlisted pair better, and so I haven't bought anything. Boo!

I mean cry me a river! It could be so easy...
I keep thinking I'll find the perfect pair...but there are outfits not being worn, and maybe the time has come to "settle"

Pulsation Possibilities

Ohhhh Anthro has some CUTE shoes at the moment. Buying them would negate the great price I got on this skirt, though.

Items in this set:
Curated Tee - Anthropologie.com, $48
Curated Tee - Anthropologie.com, $48
Skirts - Clothes - Anthropologie.com, $78
Marc by Marc Jacobs Anabelle Stud, $48
Skylight Mary-Janes - Anthropologie.com, $140

Sale Shopping - Change of Plans

Does a good sale make you notice pieces you never gave a second glance to before? I haven't submitted an online order yet, but this skirt was a whole lot easier to style then the Pulsations Skirt which I've been holding out for. Now I need to decide whether to get both, or this one instead? The Pulsations skirt is such a great price, and I do love it, but the question still remains what in the haydiddle do you wear with it?

Items in this set:
Blouses - Clothes - Anthropologie.com, $68
Seabound Skirt, $120
ASOS Metal Knot Stud Earrings, $8.45
Women's Shoes & Accessories: Jewelry, Bags, Shoes: ANN TAYLOR, $58
Mossimo Cognac Presta Wedge - 8.5 : Target, $25

OOTD - Baby Day

Our church dedicates one Sunday a year to "Baby Day" where the newest members of the nursery parade up front and have their pictures shown on screen. They are prayed for and celebrated, and a friendly petition for volunteers is passed around - who could say no to those cute faces ;)

Our baby has a case of the sniffles (where are you two bottom teeth???) and has never actually been left in the church nursery (I wait until my babes are over a year to leave them) but he's parading anyway!

Items in this set:
Tops for Women: The Limited for Women: The Limited, $45
Anthropologie Scalloped Dots Skirt Customer Ratings & Reviews - Top &...
gumdrops stud at kate spade, $38
Amazon.com: Women's Xhilaration® Takia Ruffle Sandal - Metallic: Shoes, $14

OOTD - Pressure Cooker

This morning I am off to the pharmacy to pick up my brand new prescription for blood pressure medication. Yikes! At least my outfit looks calm and relaxed, even if I apparently am not!

Items in this set:
Women's Cotton Sweaters & Cardigans - J.Crew, $62
Old Navy Womens Distressed Boyfriend Khakis, $33
Michael Antonio Dava, $40
Sunray sequin tee - J.Crew

I ordered the Dava sandals in the set above, from Piperlime, and they were quite cute when they arrived, but the back heel portion came up too high on me and really cut into my skin. The hunt for a flat brown sandal continues...

I threw on my Euginia Kim fot Target hat as a last minute addition!

OOTD - Play Ball!

I don't own or wear a lot of black - as evidenced in the closet pictures below, but a few weeks ago I grabbed this t-shirt at Target and today I'm finally taking the tags off. Harrison and Sawyer both have baseball games tonight, the field is notoriously windy - so the knit blazer is just the thing to keep the chill away.

Items in this set:
Gap Petite Double-knit blazer, $35
Gap Petite Flare Leg Jean (Dark Wash), $45
Pied A Terre Newman Toe Thong Wedge Sandals, Bronze, 6, 85 GBP
Fossil Analog Champagne Dial Watch, $75

I feel...so not myself in this outfit. I think I'm most comfortable in "cutsey" and this outfit is a definite departure from that.

But it's good to dress outside your comfort zone sometimes, right?

Inside My Closet

Yesterday afternoon I read a post on My Superfluities that discussed the importance of a well organized closet. I was spurred into immediate action and decided to get some things in order. I thought I'd snap a couple of pictures while everything was (somewhat) nice and neat. Do you love to see inside other peoples closets? I do! One of my favorite shows is House Hunters on HGTV, because I just love peeking inside and seeing how others live/decorate.

Here are my Spring/Summer Clothes. I have them organized by sleeveless tops, short sleeves, skirts, shorts & capris and casual dresses.

Eventually we'd really love to have professional closet organizers installed so we can better utilize the space. I'd do double rows of hanging storage and shelves for my shoes.

The other side has my Fall/Winter clothes starting with my cardigans since I actually use them during all seasons. Next are knit tops, button ups, sweaters, skirts and pants. In the back are my party dresses and boots. And across the top are all my sweatshirts and sweatpants. I keep basic tee's/tanks/camis plus my jeans and some other casual pants in two dressers in our bedroom.
I tried running to Home Goods this morning for some additional bins, but couldn't find any cute ones. These hold my flip flops, and as you can see I need one for sneakers. Despite the fact that I do not exercize or run, I manage to keep 1o pairs in rotation.

When I worked, before having kids, I owned many, many twin sets. There was a store in the mall called Petite Sophisticate (I was the youngest one shopping in there by about 25 years) and I had a twin set in just about every shade of every color. I could kick myself black and blue for getting rid of them. Sure, the "shells" from the twin sets could have gone, but why oh why didn't I at least keep the cardigan portion??? I am slowly rebuilding my collection ;)
Clearly, I have enough pink ones. The two colors I have the most of in my closest seem to be pink and blue.


The gaps I want to fill in the near future?
-Black Sandals
-Kelly green, brown, and orange cardigans
-Black pants that are short enough to wear with flats
-A couple of solid knit dresses
-A black belt with a gold buckle (any recommendations? I am having a hard time finding one that doesn't have a silver buckle)


And would you believe that my husband actually gets equal space? His clothes are on the other side, and I haven't encroached on them yet ;)

Brrr & Bright II

It's not only cold here today, but it's also rainy. Boo. I'm so unmotivated when it rains.

Items in this set:
Merona® Women's Essential Cardigan - Bermuda Sea : Target, $15
Eyelet Ruffle Cap Sleeve, $18
Gap Petite Vintage flared leg jeans, $25
Oolite Necklace, $38
Aerosoles: GUAVA PLUSH, $69

This F21 blouse has pretty layers of eyelet, but the fit is boxy, so I tucked it in.

Pity no one can actually see the details under my raincoat.

OOTD - Brrr & Bright

The temperatures are taking a dip this week in PA, by about 20 degrees. Brrr. I kept my outfit bright, because afterall, it's still Spring!

Items in this set:
Women's Cotton Sweaters & Cardigans - J.Crew
Gap Petite Hip slung denim flare pants
Marc by Marc Jacobs Anabelle Stud, Green painted dome stud belt
Amazon.com: Ju-Ju-Be BeTween: Baby

My jeans are actually from ATL and my belt from F21 - which by the way, you can easily add extra holes to with your eyelet setter if you are a scrapbooker (or former scrapbooker, in my case).