Stitch Fix #4

It's Stitch Fix time again!  I have to admit, I got this fix a few weeks ago and what with the craziness of summer, haven't had a chance to review everything until now.  So, here we go....

What is Stitch Fix? Stitch Fix is a mail order styling service for women. You sign up on their website, answer their questions to create a style profile, pay the $20 styling fee, and receive 5 items curated for you by one of their stylists.  You also have the opportunity to create a Pinterest board to link to for your stylist and a place to write notes about any details you want to share with your stylist that you think will help them understand what you're looking for.  Clothing goes from sizes 0/XS-14/XL and includes maternity and petite sizing.

Stitch Fix allows you to leave a note for your stylist where you can leave requests, give them feedback or let them know any special events you have coming up that you'd like them to keep in mind.  In my note to my stylist, I mentioned that I was looking for a black clutch purse to replace the cheapy, last minute purchase bag I've been using for the past few years.  I also mentioned that I'd like a 3/4 sleeve blouse for work and some light wash, distressed skinny/straight leg jeans.  

Here's what I got:

41Hawthorn - Moni Stud Detail 3/4 Sleeve Blouse

How much do I love the design of this top?  So much, friends, so much.  The brass nailhead detailing, combined with the black color makes it feel a little bit rock n' roll to me and - can I tell you a secret? - I totally want to be rock n' roll. I love the idea of the 3/4 length sleeve and the allover shape of the top.  The slight cinch at the bust makes it flow out into a subtle A-line at the bottom, which is flattering on most people.  

The downfall of this top for me, however, was in the details.  It's hard to see in the pictures, but the fabric was a stretchy, rough polyester.  The fabric didn't suit the shape of the top and I found that the bottom band flared out in the front, giving the top a cheap, tent-like appearance when viewed from the side.  Also, several of the nailheads had glue seeping from around them - another sign that the top was haphazardly made. I know that this shirt design is somewhat of a Stitch Fix staple and couldn't help but feel that because this top is so popular, the craftsmanship may have suffered.  I was really sad that this top didn't work out. 

VERDICT: Returned. ($58)

Kut From The Kloth - Haiden Distressed Straight Leg Jean

When I first opened the box, I have to admit I was a little bit disappointed to see these in there.  Yes, I had asked for jeans, but I was really looking for a very light wash more suited to the summer.  My opinion swayed however, when I tried these pants on, because they fit SO WELL (I know, when am I going to believe that the pants will fit?).  They fit perfectly at the waist and I really wanted to keep them for that reason alone.  Unfortunately, the length of the pants were a little funny on me and the rolled up cuffs are sewed in place, making it impossible to adjust them without cutting threads.  Also, did you see the distressing?  I think these two identical holes at the knees are really the strangest thing and were ultimately the deciding factor on whether to keep or return.

VERDICT: Returned.  ($88)

Fun2Fun - Eddy V-Neck Top

I have to admit, when I first saw this print, all I could think of was Eddie Murphy as an African Prince in the classic 1983 film Trading Places.  For me, this print was incredibly reminiscent of the fabrics my friend wore while she was in the Peace Corps in West Africa.  While I love the idea of a tribal print, I couldn't help but feel that, in this case, the print combined with the subdued, pastel coloring was too literal of a reference to the late 80s/early 90s for me.  The black looks more defined in the photo than it did in real life, but the colors in the shirt were very light.  Generally, I prefer deep, jewel tones.

Beside the aesthetic being a bit off for me, this top fit narrower at the hip and wider in the shoulders and would probably be better suited for someone with a different body shape than mine.  There was a lot of room in the waist, where I'm typically smallest, but the shirt puckered at the bust when I raised my arms.  A good shirt, but just not a good shirt for me. 

VERDICT:  Returned ($44)

Urban Expressions - Fold-Over Clutch

Look at this fabulous clutch!  I've been needing a proper, multi-purpose clutch for ages now, but just never seem to be able to find something that could work for both a wedding and a night on the town.  So you can imagine how thrilled I was to see this awesome, textured clutch in my fix. It was exactly what I asked for and though not inexpensive, it's definitely something I think I'll be using for years to come. 

VERDICT: Kept ($48)

Romolo - Robyn Teardrop Branch Necklace

Oh teardrop necklace, how do I love thee?  If you've read my other reviews, you'll know that I'm super skeptical of statement necklaces, so it might surprise you that this little baby ended up in my box.  BUT, I actually did pin a couple of statement necklaces like this because I felt I needed something that 1) acknowledged the trend and 2) could go with my fabulous NeNe Striped Maxi dress from my 3rd fix. Everything about this necklace fits my aesthetic from the color, to the length and weight of it (it's not too heavy). 

VERDICT: Kept ($34)

The Nitty Gritty

So, as you may have noticed this is the first time I've sent items back!  I was a little bummed that everything wasn't perfect, but figure it is to be expected with a service like this.  Even though the clothes weren't exactly right, the two things I did keep were items that I really love.  

Also, I should probably note that it was really easy sending the items back.  I just put them in the provided return packaging and dropped them in the mail.  Easy peasy. 

A few other details: 

If you refer a friend (or inspired stranger), then you received a $25 credit when that person orders and receives their first fix.  So, if you're interested in trying this service, I'd love for you to use my Referral Link. ;o)

Every fix comes with a personalized note from your stylist describing briefly why s/he picked the items for you.  In addition, there is a card that shows two ways to style each item in the fix in order to give you inspiration.

When it comes to checking out, the $20 styling fee is credited back to you, even if you keep just one item.  Also, if you buy all five items, then the whole lot is 25% off.  It's interesting how the 25% off plays into the decision-making process. 

Click to read the reviews for my 1st, 2nd and 3rd Stitch Fix

*disclosure: this is not a sponsored post, just a service that I'm using that I want to share