Stitch Fix #1

I celebrated a weight loss milestone this week by getting my very first Stitch Fix (link will take you to their FAQ where they can explain better what exactly the service is).

My happy, shiny box arrived late Thursday afternoon:

happy, shiny box!

guide with suggestions as to how to incorporate pieces into wardrobe and style them

Everything was neatly wrapped in tissue paper, so it was fun unwrapping each little parcel to discover my five things.

41 Hawthorn Turquoise Scarf; Just Black Grey Jeans; RD Style Black Cardigan

Ravel Red Sweater

Renee C Off White Dress

 To be honest, initially, I was feeling a little underwhelmed.  But I'll break it down piece by piece.

Black Diandra Chunky Knit Open Cardigan by RD Style

I already have several open style cardigans (and then several more other cardigans) so I was going to have to be wowed I thought for me to be able to consider buying it. This was a piece that I was able to get a sneak peek of thanks to the wonders of Google (this is what I found, which incidentally is the same styling card I got with the cardigan). I didn't dislike, it just was about the cardigan equivalent of Ann Veal.

I put it on.  Felt very soft, was nice and warm.  Good piece, as I feel like this was included after I added a note to my file mentioning that I'd be moving to Michigan in a few weeks and I would like some things to help me stay warm.  But I was still on the fence. Then I tried it on for Paul.  And he liked it.  So you know what happened next? I started to like it even more.

Layered over a typical Steph outfit of a solid knit cotton shirt and denim jean

I know I need some help with this whole belting open cardigan thing (I've seen it done, but I feel like every time I attempt it, it doesn't work just right... I mean, what's pictured above isn't bad, but I still feel like maybe I'm doing something wrong).

Status: KEEPER

 

Red Erika Mixed Knit Crew Neck Sweater by Ravel

The sweater had received a "not buy" status from another girl, who pointed out that the detailing around the hem just drew attention the hip region... so I wasn't expecting to like it either as a fellow hippy lady.

followed the styling guide by putting a T underneath and rolling up the sleeves

 I really like the knit pattern that the central panel is made up of, but I found the sleeves odd when not cuffed to my elbow and Paul didn't like this massive chunky seam that runs down the back of it.  And the final factor, this cotton sweater was priced more like a cashmere one, so

Status: SENT BACK

 

Turquoise Underwood Fair Isle Knit Infinity Scarf  by 41Hawthorn

I really like scarves.  But to be honest, infinity style scarves confuse me.  I just don't get them.  Infinity cowls, I get (I have one that I crocheted last winter), but the scarves just throw me for a loop and I don't know how to wear them.

left: looped around twice; right: looped around thrice as my style card said I should do

Twice looks crazy, thrice looks and feels like I'm in a neck brace.  Honestly, if this thing hadn't had it's ends serged together, it would have had a different ending.

Staus: SENT BACK

 

Grey Adora Skinny Jeans by Just Black

The jeans are a pretty basic thing, so my main concern was whether or not they would actually fit.  As you can quickly see, there is no picture of me actually in the jeans, because alas, they did not fit.

This is my big complaint that I think Stitch Fix should address: they should ask for actual inch/centimeter measurements to help determine correct fit before heartbreak like this occurs.  My pants size is all over the place depending on the cut of pants and who makes them (thanks vanity sizing for making everyone feel better, but actually leaving us more confused than ever).

I especially liked that these jeans were made in the US (maybe I should look to see if I can buy them through other channels), that they were going to be an instant staple and I could finally retire my Old Navy Rockstar grey jeans that are too big and annoying to wear, but I keep wearing them because they are gray and skinny.

Status: SENT BACK

 

Off White Enrique French Terry Fit & Flare Dress by Renee C

This is the piece I was most excited for.  And it did not disappoint.  I was taken aback a little by the stripes (I'm trying not to add any more striped things to my wardrobe as I already have many striped tops), as I was hoping it would be something that could be a bit more dressy, but it's still an incredibly versatile little dress.

so, I'm already planning on wearing this to MOPS on Monday; styled with denim blazer, orange scarf, black tights, and black boots

styled with long beaded necklace, skinny belt, green tights, and black ballet flats

It is a little shorter than what I'm normally wear, but it's not immodest by any stretch it's just a big step outside of normal comfort zone, but the fit is impeccable and it's very comfy and cozy material wise.  Also scored some major brownie points for being made in the US.

Status: KEEPER

Overall, I enjoyed the experience. I think that I set my expectations too high for this first fix (your stylist gets better the more feedback they are given, so it only makes sense that subsequent fixes will get better as you interact more by trying on pieces and sharing why you liked/disliked them), and I would definitely give a whirl again sometime down the line.  I don't think I'd be willing to sign-up for the auto every month level as this was a bit of an investment (read: more money than what I'm typically spending at Old Navy, GAP, or American Eagle), but I think maybe for birthdays, or letting it be a special treat, it's a fun way to shop and maybe branch out a little.

If you want to sign-up (sign-up is free!), try out the style profile, you can also be super awesome by using this link, which shows me as referring you to Stitch Fix and if someday down the road you decide to get a Fix, I'll get some credit (and then can get a fix too ;-) )