Another Anthro Blog

I'm on Instagram!

2014-12-09T10:50:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,
Thank you for bearing with me through this busy busy semester. I have been teaching one of the largest courses in my department, so time has been scarce! Forgive me if I have neglected to post. But the good news is that I have joined this century, and I am now on Instagram!

Image credit

You can follow me here.

One DIY top, 2 ways

2014-06-11T13:50:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to learn new sewing techniques (the beauty of teaching oneself!) and made a quick top to try out the zig zag stitch I just discovered in my machine. I made a top with decorator fabric and I should have thought that through, since despite being cotton, it is a bit stiff. I am hoping a few washes may soften it.
I wore it as part of a casual outfit:

And in a dressier outfit, with the skirt I made and some lovely Via Spiga wedges I found at the rack for a steal:

I have been drafting my own patterns from carefully studying how my clothes are made because that seems like the best way to learn. I have been trying to learn one new skill per garment I make, but I am happy to report that with this top, I leaned two: how to sew elastic with a zig zag stitch, and how to place side darts. I consider myself an expert amateur :-)

Do you sew? If so, do you use patterns or just wing it like I do? And if you don't sew, what are the quality details you look for in garments you buy? I would love to incorporate those in "my" pieces, so let me know in the comments below, and have a beautiful day!

A little J. Crew, a little Memorial Day

2014-05-29T16:16:00.000-07:00

Hello! I have been attempting a little digital detox for the last two weeks or so, and I am happy to report that I had a fantastic Memorial day weekend without checking email/blogs and I feel good! Coming back to civilization is a different story though, but who am I to complain. Yesterday, Mr. Brown Shorts brought me two presents, which I am promptly reviewing below:

J. Crew Embroidered Floral Racer Dress, size 00:

The waist is a smidge tight on this one (darn bloat) but once I get past that you know what TMI portion of the month, it should be ok. This dress is stunning! I usually take a 00 or 0 in J. Crew dresses and took a 00 in this one. The length is a little shorter than I'd like it, but the dress is all cotton and lined in cotton and not sheer. The cotton is soft, the embroidery feels sturdy and it has on-seam pockets and bra keeps. Love it! It is marked down to $119.99 minus extra 40% off in stores, though don't quote me on that.

J. Crew Photo Floral Dress, size 0:

This dress feels very Anthro to me. The cotton is a stiff pique like material, and the skirt has a lot of volume in a good way. The colors are nice and bright, and I didn't feel swallowed by the dress as I often do with very voluminous skirts. The waist in the 00 was a little too tight (I have gained weight lately - yay!- so I am not quite sure if this runs TTS or small) so I sized up to a 0 which is a little big on top. I predict that one short 15 minute stint in the drier is going to fix it. Fully lined in cotton, on seam pockets and a beautiful pattern tell me to keep this dress and wear it with Jackie cardigans. Word to the wise, it has an exposed plastic zipper in the back. I think this one may be on sale now in stores, sold out online.

In keeping with the sentiment brought on by Memorial Day, let me share one more random act of kindness. I hate the war but love the troops for their sacrifices, so consider writing a letter to a soldier stationed abroad, or send a thank you card to your nearest fire station or first responder HQ. A little thank you goes a long way!

So what did you do this weekend? Have you been shopping the awesome J. Crew sales or did you enjoy the sun and sand like I did, or both? Would love to hear how you spent Memorial Day!

Little planes and J. Crew Marina Mini Wedge Espadrilles

2014-04-29T20:27:00.003-07:00

We are having a heat wave here! I didn't even need to turn on the oven to make dinner today, as we've been experiencing temperatures in the 90s. I walked down to the beach and relaxed for a while, taking in the view and wishing with all my might to not get crapped on by the low flying birds. It was lovely!

I love these J. Crew Marina Mini Wedge Espadrilles in chambray I bought at the end of last summer for something ridiculous like $15. I wore them for the first time today and they are so comfortable and cute I can wholeheartedly recommend them if this year's version is anything like the ones from last year. They fit TTS (I took the same size that I do in "real world" shoes) and are leather lined with leather sole. I couldn't help pairing them with something in the same color family.

J. Crew chambray mini-wedge espadrilles and a bit of a wrinkly dress

My husband works in aviation and loves planes so I made this dress for his holiday work party a few months ago, but ended up wearing something else. Since I made it out of quilting cotton (loops, seamstress sacrilege some may say!) it can be worn for every day and keeps me cool in these crazy temperatures but becomes a little wrinkly by the end of the day. It was my first time sewing with a pattern and I must admit it was a pain, I'd rather wing it. But at least this way I know the hem is straight.

I love the contrasting yellow on-seam pockets,
which of course you cannot see in this picture!

Random acts of kindness continued, and J. Crew Factory Charley Sweater in Sketched Pear

2014-04-28T12:00:00.001-07:00

I was moved to tears by the outpouring of support in my last post (thank you to all of you who commented, reached out by email, or read and thought a prayer, I deeply appreciate it!). I have been thanking everyday for such great blog friends, and I am just in awe of what happens when you put good energy out there into the universe (or the blogiverse in this case). I just wanted to give you a quick update: last time I promised to commit to random acts of kindness, and I have been practicing what I preach. I decided to start small: every time I made eye contact with someone, I would smile. It is incredible the kind of response I have received. My mood has been better (all those people smiling back at me), my weight is finally back up and I feel that if all those smiles are doing something for me, they must be doing something for the people on the other end, even if it's just to work out their smile wrinkles. It may seem silly, but a smile instantly fits my spirits. Hey, I said I'm starting small.
One of the things that has cheered me up is wearing bright colors. I am loving the factory offerings from the last couple of months and I ordered a few things to freshen up my wardrobe. This pear sweater is one of them. I am still trying to figure out how to style it other than with this houndstooth skirt I made a few months ago, but it is so soft and fits just like the Tippi sweaters from retail I love so much.

So, have you been practicing any random acts of kindness since we last "chatted"? How have you been welcoming spring and its cheery warmer temperatures and sunny longer days? We are supposed to hit the 90s here this week, so ice cream may be in order.

Random acts of kindness

2014-04-10T17:56:00.003-07:00

I have been feeling a little under the weather lately, feeling down on myself and letting stress get the best of me. I took some time off blogs to see if that would help me get out of my rut, but so far, it hasn't worked. The scale told me stress was really affecting me, so my husband is on a mission to help me gain the weight back. Perhaps I'll get some hate mail for complaining, but I can tell you that being underweight is just as serious as it is being overweight, especially when either is a result of stress. I have been trying to relax, meditate and let things roll right off me, but so far, the only thing I have managed has been procrastination.

Bright colors help light up my day

But there has been a bright spot in all of this! The other day, upon returning to my car, I found a note taped to my windshield that said "You are special." I looked around and none of the other cars had one, and there was no one around. This got me thinking about how powerful random acts of kindness are. If a note from a stranger could make a difference for me, I wonder how many lives I can change doing something that takes less than a minute of my time on a weekly or even daily basis. A hug, a compliment, a note, and even a smile can make someone's day. With you as my witness, I hereto commit to random acts of kindness.

So tell me, have you ever experienced a random act of kindness? Any and all ideas encouraged!

Christmas came early!

2013-11-12T21:18:00.000-08:00

I just sat down to check my email, and got hold of an amazing offer: One free piece of jewelry with your first purchase at Baublebar through this referral link (first time customers only, and I think it also includes a 15%!) There are so many cute piecees at really great prices.
There are really amazing statement pieces, tons of J. Crew knockoffs and their really cute winter collection. I love their customer service and am happy to give them a little space on my blog! This promo makes me wish I were a new customer!

Shop here

The Allure of the New, or our constant dissatisfaction with our wardrobe

2013-10-25T19:38:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have been thinking about my shopping habits. I look a lot, but I don't buy that much. I try to be critical and not get caught up in a consumerist fit, but my academic work deals with "heavy" topics such as inequality and injustice, so I often feel exhausted, impotent and futile because of what I write about. Working from home and living somewhat far away from my closest friends leave me a lot of time for procrastinations and distractions. A lot of online browsing/shopping. Or rather, my work sometimes solicits a mindless reprieve. Plus, my grocers are near a nice little shopping area (my Whole Foods is next to 2 of my favorite stores, my local natural grocer is next door to another of my favorite shops, and so forth) so I always take a quick look. I remember when I was a kid, shopping was an event: I went and spent time picking out the things I liked, and sometimes even wore stuff out of the store. I was so excited. Now, sometimes it feels like a routine to browse.

Not sure how this is related, but it's funny, yes? (source)

I still share in the joy of loving what I buy and still have those lengthy fun shopping excursions with friends, but many times I am left wanting more. I have felt that I am finally on the quality over quantity side of the spectrum, but the fact that there are still a few pieces with tags in my closet which were purchased in the last couple of months and haven't been worn gives me pause. I have been thinking about what it is that compels me to buy more when I haven't even worn the latest thing. Is it the next great deal? Is it a general dissatisfaction with the way I dress, or is it just a function of navigating fashion blogs? Are we victims of our consumer culture and I am being naive at trying to "take it back"? Maybe I have too much free time? (Ok, don't answer the last one!)
I think I have a defined style I love so it's not that. I have started making some of my clothes exactly like I want them, or how my skill level allows (pictures to come) and that gives me a different kind of satisfaction. I have enough clothes to last me for a few weeks before doing laundry and I hate to think of a time when my closet becomes unmanageable. I have under 100 items in my closet, counting my 25 pairs of shoes (and yes, that includes trainers and workout tees) so I am not by any means a hoarder. Yet I feel I am living in (over)abundance, so I have decided to be ruthless about what makes it home with me, and especially what stays. We shall see how that evolves... stay tuned!

(source)

And with that, here is one of my latest creations. Excuse the wrinkly mess, but this is what sitting at a desk writing all day does to your cotton clothing. Right, Wendy? (By the way, if you haven't yet skipped over to her blog, do so. She is soon to be a famous authoress!)

J Crew Jackie Cardigan, DIY bike skirt, J Crew Janey Patent flats and my under-accessorized self

So tell me, are you like me and sometimes feel the allure of the new? Do you feel you don't have enough or does your closet drown you? Are you in constant purge mode? Have you figured out a good balance between getting the most out of your closet and enjoying bringing some new additions to keep it fresh? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Apologetic of fit

2013-10-11T04:43:00.002-07:00

Well, I wouldn't be the only person in the world to fall for a totaly adorable piece of clothing that does not look perfectly tailored, would I? I really really love this skirt, but it is just a little big (and since I'm fessing up, maybe a little short too). However, it is perfectly textured, has these little boats embroidered and allows my (often hidden) matchy matchy side to reveal itself.

I may take this skirt to the tailor, but given that it was just under $20 and it has pockets, I fear the alterations may outprice the skirt. Maybe a trip to the clothes dryer is in order?

Skirt: Star Chart Skirt, Anthropologie, Shirt: Old Navy, Shoes: J. crew Cece ballet flats

So, I have to ask, do you ever fall for adorable and become apologetic of fit?

Anthropologie Scalloped Stripes Ponte Skirt DIY lookalike

2013-09-20T07:20:00.004-07:00

If everybody else is knocking off J. Crew and Anthro, well, I may too with my limited sewing skills. Not that a striped gathered skirt is inventing the wheel, so no fear of Anthro's copyright team coming after me here. I loved the Scalloped Stripes Ponte Skirt since it came out, and my sweet husband picked it up for me as a surprise at a Houston store when he was there on business a few months back, but when he brought it home it it turned out to be too "bell-y" (like any bell skirt should be). It totally overwhelmed my frame, so back it went but I still thought about how much I would love a similar skirt, only flattering.
I have to admit that after watching Sew Petite Gal's sewing genius, I got inspired to sew, seam rip and sew some more. This is the 4th incarnation of this skirt that I have ripped and remade and I think it's a keeper now.

The fourth time is the charm!

Sassy, because that is how we roll here in ABs house

Outfit details: DIY skirt (I'm no seamstress!), J Crew Tippi Sweater in Tropical Green (from Spring) and Madewell Film Noir Polka dot shoes (from last year)

It even has a lining, zipper and waistband, no elastic. I'm patting myself on the back on this one *ahem*. Do you sew, and have any tips to share for this novice who is rapidly befriending her seam ripper?

J Crew Factory warmspun herringbone jewel-collar sweater review

2013-09-17T12:47:00.001-07:00

Kicking out reviews like it's going out of style! I ordered from the J. Crew Factory for the first time ever during the 40% Gilt City coupon madness and I have to say, it did not disappoint. I believe it is $118, but I got 30% off for new arrivals, and 40% on top of that, making it about $50. More than I wanted to pay for factory, but I knew this would sell out.
Here's what I bought:

Sold out, but you can find specifics here

It purchased my usual J. Crew size (XXS) in Carbon Black color and no kidding that factory runs large. There is plenty of room, so I may recommend sizing down if you are not planning on layering. Here it is on me:

The retail Tippis often ~~sausagecase~~ skim my body, so yeah, maybe it's necessary to size down on this one. See this sweater on these beautiful ladies, Audreybella and Rose. It did not feel as itchy as the retail version from last year, though it wasn't the softest thing ever.

It is a mix of wool, nylon and viscose, and I plan on soaking with some softener before wearing for a whole day. The sleeves were a little short, but after the strategic move of wetting them and stretching them, they are now perfect (and since they are narrower, they fit better!) Easy fix. It is hand washable.
Did you get anything in the crazy 40% sale at Factory?

Tommy Hilfiger Book Print Dress review

2013-09-16T19:22:00.002-07:00

I learned from the lovely Blue Booby that it's ok to post unflattering pictures on the Internet, and more specifically on your blog. I'm a good student. Here you go:

Not my best look

What you see me wearing here is the Tommy Hilfiger shirtdress with the book/library print (NOT an affiliate link, so click away my friends). The dress itself (or rather, the print) is gorgeous, but for an hourglass like me, this dress is plain unflattering. Too much fabric at the waist, and though it is 100% cotton, it feels a little stiff. I am not a fan of fabric belts, so I would personally swap it out for a patent leather one.

Makes me look like I have a food baby, which I sometimes do, but decidedly did not here.

Aaaaaaaand it's short on me at 5'8"

I purchased this at Macy's (it's $89.50) with a 20% coupon, which made this dress about $70 plus tax. It has pockets, and it is 100% cotton, but it is unlined. I think this is most likely going back, unless trying it on with a slip makes a huge difference. I purchased the XS, and it is TTS to a little large (I usually wear XXS or 0 at Anthro and J. Crew for reference).

The print is lovely and so apropos for an academic such as moi

The words Tommy Hilfiger, TH and Hilfiger and printed super tiny on the spine of some of these books, but it is barely noticeable. I have to say that even though I avoid purchasing "just because it's a good deal" I may give this dress another look if it is cut substantially and only because I love the print and the idea of this. I didn't bother putting shoes on because I hated it so much on me, but maybe I should try with heels and it could make a difference. See it on Gigi, who actually looks great in it!
All in all, it's adorable but not the most flattering thing I've tried on. Since I am a librarian/archivist by trade, and an academic in training, I kind of want it to work out due to how cute it would be to wear to teach, but as I type this is sitting in my return pile. Womp womp.
Please let us know in the comments if you've tried or purchased this dress. I'd love to hear if it worked for you!

J. Crew Tortoise Flower Necklace for less

2013-09-11T09:26:00.001-07:00

As is tradition, everything J Crew makes gets knocked off, and this is no exception:

Tortoise flower necklace (item 02242) - $138.00 (sold out)

Aaaaaaaaaaand


Tortoise Bloom Bib (ITEM 8393-V) - $34

I think my referral link still has 15% off here for new customers but don't quote me. I can't speak to its quality, but I have been pretty happy with my pieces from Baublebar, and their customer service is amazing.
Do you ever try "knockoffs"?

Everlane Tees

2013-09-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

I've been traveling lately, so apologies for my absence. I have a few new items to share and some reviews but that's not what occupies me today. Lately, I have seen many a respected blogger rave about Everlane tees (especially in light of ethical shopping considerations following the events in Bangladesh). Gigi calls it "truly perfect" (couldn't find a review) and my bloggy BFF Caroline raves about it here. Ruth reviewed the silk blouse here. I just discovered that if you order in the first 24 hs of creating your account, you get free shipping and free returns. Now I am seriously tempted. SERIOUSLY. I think $15 for an American made, "fair trade" good quality cotton tee is not outrageous.


Everlane Tee - Is it worth it? Plus, this is the only model who didn't look mad. (source)

So now, I do what any nice girl with a blog would do. I ask: have you tried Everlane? If so, please share below. If you're feeling extra generous, feel free to sign up through my referral link (they have an awesome referral program that gives you credit for each new friend that signs up and orders). I really respect the opinions of the bloggers above, but since I don't wear tees, I am just looking for an ~~enabling~~ extra push. I am also hoping someone can tell me about the qulity of their silk shirts before my "free shipping" offer runs out, since the Crew has been letting me down in that department. Either way, they offer free shipping on 2+ items all the time which doesn't sound like anybody is twisting my arm here, right? I hope you're having a lovely day!

Disclosure: I don't use affiliate links in my blog (no monetization here) but occasionally use referral links, which I view as an equivalent to "word of mouth" rather than a business enterprise. I hope you don't mind!

Classics and trends: Is an investment piece REALLY worth it? (Chanel, Hermes, et al.)

2013-07-27T08:17:00.001-07:00

Under danger of appearing vapid or maybe even ignorant, I'd like to discuss a something that has been swirling around in my head for quite a few weeks now: classics and trends. The lovely WMM got me thinking about this with her post on investment dressing, and the discussion had with her inclusive club can be found here. As high end designer clothing continues rearing its head on style blogs and the streets of Orange County, I can't help but ask myself about these brands that have risen to popularity and skyrocketing prices. Many people refer to them as "classics": a Chanel flap bag will "never go out of style," neither will a Hermes scarf, etc etc. Now, in the spirit of disclosure, I have to say I am not one with the "investment dressing" mentality, mainly because I have been a student for too long, and because I grew up in an underprivileged household so spending in the thousands for a piece of clothing or accessory (barring fine jewelry) is completely out of my comfort level.
When I think of classic, I see this in my head (please excuse the cliche):

Ok, she loved Givenchy, but still (source)

or this:

(source)

No logos, and the common denominator of these outfits is that they are something that can be recreated in many a way and many a budget (though these pictures also speak to the "trends" of their time. I'm having a little of a chicken and egg problem here). So I wonder, when bloggers say a Chanel bag is a timeless fashion "must have", is it really because the quality is unparalleled or because it "stands for something"? Is it because it has steadily climbed in price since a few years ago, hence making it a true investment or is it filling a different kind of blank? Or is it because "classics" are also a trend, made popular by people who tote them around hence contributing to their "appreciation"? And if so, when is the bubble going to burst, and these items will begin depreciating? Christian Louboutin and his infamous red soles have recently become noticeable in gas stations rather than runways, and Chanel was known as a trendsetter when she was designing and sewing so how can we claim these are Classic? I wonder if part of this classicism can be the "trend that does not dare to speak its name." I wonder. Perhaps I am missing the point. I understand the appeal of clean lines and basics (from a fit and color standpoint). I sew some of my clothing, try to buy leather lined shoes and look for quality natural fibers and good tailoring with quality details in clothing, but the reality is I find items that fit my criteria at both high and low end retailers.
I see hordes of bloggers wearing designer goods, thinking that toting these items equals "style", and contributing to the "hype." Am I way off base in thinking that style can be found just as well in making an inexpensive item look like a million bucks? And more importantly, is there such a thing as a classic piece of clothing or are these items more enduring "trends so to speak"?

(source)

Where do you stand on investment dressing? Do you think bloggers contribute to the classic cult nature of an item? And a question I've been pondering as of late: is a Chanel bag really worth it? Thoughts and discussion appreciated!

J.Crew Jewelry Dupes: Fan Fringe Necklace, Beaded Rose Necklace for less!

2013-07-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the break, we've been traveling and the blog took a back seat. But upon my return, the online browsing yielded a few dupes that I am happy to share with you!
For those of you still lamenting the sold out J. Crew Fan Fringe Necklace, do not despair!

J Crew Fan Fringe Necklace - $148 (sold out)


Aqua Fiesta Fringe Collar - $34 (referral link here)

And the famous Beaded Rose Necklace:

J. Crew Beaded Rose Necklace - $128

And its counterpart in Ivory (also comes in Cerise, Mint, Emerald, Onyx/Black):

Ivory Jumbo Bloom Bib - $34 (referral link here)

I think I am going to order the Ivory "beaded rose" necklace, and since it only has 5 flowers, it may be a better fit for my frame. If you've tried any of these pieces and can comment on quality/styling/raves/hates, please do so in the comments!
Oh, and one more thing, the referral link may or may not prompt a 15% off discount (my browser is outdated, so it doesn't pick it up, but yours may) so feel free to use it if you wish. If you do, thank you, and if you don't, thank you just as well!

J. Crew Sale

2013-06-21T17:11:00.000-07:00

You guys (and girls), get to a J. Crew B&M right now if you live near one. Sale stock is 25% off, and in addition, they are having the 25% (30% with J. Crew card) so they are stacking the two percentages.

(source)

Really great prices, but didn't find much that tempted me because I bought mostly everything I wanted during previous sales. Now, here's the thing: if they are doing this crazy liquidation, it must be because the merchandise is not moving, so proceed with sale goggles caution.

I walked out empty handed, but I left a Liberty shirt of hold to mull over. If you hit up the J. crew sale, please post your deals in the comments!

Anthropologie Sagiso Blouse dupe

2013-05-27T11:12:00.002-07:00

Good morning and happy Memorial Day! Just a quick post to let you know of another Anthro dupe!
The Sagiso Blouse sold out quickly, and I know some of you may still be looking. It was reissued in mint and sold out again.

Anthropologie Sagiso Blouse - $168

Though the dupe does not have the button back (and perhaps the jacquard pattern), it is loads cheaper at around 40%. I have a few Canvas pieces, and the quality is outstanding.

Landsend Canvas Women's Eyelet Half Sleeve Tee - $98 (plus extra 30% off)

Canvas is currently doing 30% off everything with code CANVAS and pin 1315 (so this blouse would be a little under $70 with free shipping)! I think I may give this one a try.
I hope you are all having a wonderful long weekend or a great start of your week!

Note: Click away, none of these are affiliate links :-)

An OOTD and 50% off Kate Spade on Gilt (plus potentially extra $25 off or extra 20% off!)

2013-05-22T19:02:00.001-07:00

I do get dressed every morning, though the frequency of my OOTD posts can (and may) fool you:


(Please excuse the mess on the nightstand. I blame my husband.)

Dress: Anthropologie Grass Court Dress

Cardigan: J Crew Jackie (different colorways available, got this one on sale for $14)

Belt: J Crew square buckle

Shoes: Ann Taylor Exotic Perfect pumps (2012)

PSA: This is the main event. Kate Spade is on Gilt today.
If you are a new customer, I believe that the code GILTNEW25 works for an extra $25 off, or GILTNEW20 for an extra 20% off. Don't quote me though. I am not a new customer so I couldn't take advantage of them. Feel free to use my referral link to sign up by clicking here. (If you get something and manage to use the code/s, please let us know in the comments!)
Hide my wallet and credit cards! Lots of pretty popular items on there too: from handbags to shoes to apparel to jewelry. Cannot resist, especially considering that some of the items from the sale are still full price on the KS website, and at lower prices than Nordstrom's semi-annual sale. Some stuff as low as under $40 (I'm looking at you, iPad sleeve), such a steal. I am picking up a thing or two as soon as I can make up my mind, since I vowed to keep it to one bag and a wallet.

FREE Jewelry Essentials - Baublebar VIP

2013-05-17T21:08:00.000-07:00

Wheeeeeeeeeeewwwwwww! Where has time gone? Pardon the blog absence.
Back to share an email I got from Baublebar. They sent me a link for VIP invites, which gives you a free jewelry essential with your first purchase. The pieces look pretty cute!

You can click my VIP invite link to sign up! My "invitation code" is 6594665 (it should pre-populate).

(not an affiliate link, but I get "points" upon purchase)

And really, it wouldn't be one of my jewelry posts if I didn't remind you about this J. Crew cupcake necklace dupe:

Sky Bloom Strand - $34

Lemon Bloom Strand - $34

Please share in the comments if you pick something up, and happy shopping!

1/2 yard: DIY crossword puzzle skirt

2013-04-23T13:21:00.001-07:00

Two posts in one week. I tell you, I am feeling mighty prolific! You may remember I mentioned my new found love for custom clothing and my attempt to sew drafting my own patterns in this post. You didn't think I wasn't going to show you, did you? In the midst of a stressful, deadline and travel ridden day, I got home last night and took the rest of the day off. I felt that if I de-stressed, I'd probably be more productive in the morning. Well, I don't know about that, but what I can tell you is that I am now one fully lined skirt richer. What you see here is the result of a half yard of quilting cotton, a piece of polyester from an old dress that was in the throw away pile (for the lining) and a zipper purchased at Michaels. Oh, yeah, and three hours. So next time you wonder what $5 can buy you, you can thank me for adding DIY skirt to that list.

From the front (please excuse the uninspired styling)

Side zipper

Other side

Up close and personal

Though the blurry pictures leave much to be desired (darn you, Apple mobile camera), I think the skirt fits well (look, ma, the skirt has darts and all!) Not bad for a newbie seamstress, eh?

Now it's your turn to share! Have you ever sewn a garment? If not, what's your DIY "poison"? Are you a pattern/instructions/recipe kind of gal, or do you ever just "wing it"? Feel free to link in the comments your recently completed DIY projects, I'd love to see other people's talents.
And of course, for those of you photography mavens, please feel free to let me know what you do to get your pictures looking so good, given that this is exhibit A of why I should never be given a photography award ever.

Made to measure

2013-04-21T10:19:00.002-07:00

As I dust off my DIY instinct, I am getting more familiar with the idea of custom made clothing. I am trying to draft my own patterns (with varying success, I may add) and am getting a whole different grasp of the concept of fit. I measured myself to order a custom dress from the online retailer eShakti, and here are the results:

Gorgeous dress thanks to eShakti

The dress fits perfectly (though I may have goofed a little since I didn't change the shoulder measurements from the default 14 to my measured 13, so the neck is just a little wide), the dress is 100% cotton with on seam pockets and the length is demure, and ladylike.
A lot of the items at eShakti are Anthro inspired, so I am adding eShakti as a potential place to look for items I missed out on at Anthro. Please bear in mind that this dress was provided and custom sewn free of charge, so I am looking forward to ordering again so I can try out their service as a regular customer. So far, I find the quality to be consistent with their price. I am glad to have had the opportunity to sample one of their dresses. Now that I've been spoiled, I don't want to buy pre-made sizes anymore!
What do you think of custom clothing? Have you shopped eShakti?

J Crew for less: Cupcake necklace in lilac now in stock!

2013-04-17T08:38:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to let you all Cupcake necklace fiends know that the dupe I discussed here is now available in lilac. It looks gorgeous!

Baublebar Lilac bloom strand - $34 or $24 by using my referral link

Feel free to use my referral link for $10 off your first order, making this necklace $24!

ETA: The necklace disappeared from the site when I was mid-checkout, and I am waiting to hear back from them regarding availability. Hang tight for an update!

Ode to Boston

2013-04-16T13:01:00.003-07:00

I was in the library when I heard. My father in law was going through security at Logan. Scrambling for my phone, my hand shook until I heard back from him. My sigh of relief was only a half sigh, or perhaps not a sigh at all. So much to understand, and no ways to do so. I am still in shock, but strong in prayer for the people of this lovely city that I once called home. It warms my heart to see the community stepping up in times of adversity, but my anger cannot be assuaged right now. I don't know what the right thing to say is. My thoughts are with this wonderful community, full of life, strength and a resilience that won't diminish through coercion. I'm at a loss, words escape me, and so does understanding.

(source)

How to shop Anthropologie on a budget

2013-04-11T09:42:00.001-07:00

I love Anthropologie's clothing and home goods. I really do. But since I am a graduate student, and on a limited budget, I can't afford the latest and greatest. It's an effort in patience, I tell you. So I have to wait for - you guessed it- a sale! Here are some tips and tricks of how I shop Anthropologie on a limited budget.

(source)

1) Keep a Wishlist
Anthropologie has a very useful feature on their website that allows you to save items to a wishlist. I put things I want on mine before they sell out, and check often after sale day to see what has been reduced and if sold out items pop back up (because of Anthro's return policy, you may see an item that is a year old go back in stock, and for dirt cheap!) I check my wishlist at least once a day if I have time to make sure I don't miss coveted items. I've snagged some really great deals this way! Anthropologie is consistent 99% of the time, charging the same prices online than in store (and consistent from store to store as well, unlike Banana Republic, Gap or J. Crew, for example.)

2) Know the Sale cycle (and make a few calls)
Anthropologie usually cuts prices on Sunday nights (overnight, so they show Monday morning). This is the best time to shop online if you can manage staying awake until the wee hours of the morning (I can't). I often use the handy dandy "Find in Store" tool on the website to track down items, or call customer service to get phone numbers of stores that may have the items I want in stock (since Anthropologie ships from stores you can purchase from a store directly over the phone!) Customer Service used to be very helpful, but lately I have found that it's hit or miss so I have changed my strategy and often call my local store for help. The SAs there are amazing! I have also found it helpful to note how long an item has been out and how it is selling, so I can guess when it is going to receive a 1st, 2nd or 3 cut.

3) Price Adjustments
In addition to Anthropologie's generous return policy (the #2 reason why I shop there!) they offer price adjustments if an item has been further reduced within 14 days of your purchase (or ship date for online orders). I have majorly lucked out getting some great price adjustments, one of which I share at the end of this post (or you can scroll down if your curiosity is getting the best of you!)

4) Check Anthro specific blogs
My favorite is Effortless Anthropologie, where I keep abreast of all the current promotions and Anthro happenings. The community is great in helping each other hunt for items!

5) Sign up for an Anthro Card, and email notifications
This seems simple, and the perks are scant, but when you are an Anthro member, you get a 15% discount on your birthday month to use either in store or online, which can be used on sale items! Also, though emails are frequent and usually get deleted on my end, every so often they have a free shipping code or a special promo notification (20% off dresses, 25% additional off sale items, etc.)

6) Get to know the staff at your local store (if you have one)
The SAs at my store are amazing. Seriously, they are the best. They know what I like and my size so they can pull stuff for me to try, and often times help me track down items when the store is slow. They also share the good deals they have been getting, which helps me discover items I may have missed.

7) Damage discounts and "last one" racks
Anthro often discounts items that have minor flaws, like missing a button, a broken zipper, or an unraveling hem, among other scenarios. I have never gotten a damage discount, but I have heard of ladies receiving items that are less than perfect (and fixable, like the button scenario above) and getting a generous discount. This is not foolproof and totally YMMV. I would underscore though that when an item doesn't look perfect, whether purchased on sale or for a great deal, if it is more serious than what a sewing machine or thread and needle can fix, I would not be inclined to keep it.
Some Anthros also have a "last one" rack, where you can find low stock products that are discounted to make room for new items on the sales floor. Sometimes these are in the fitting rooms, so don't forget to check!

8) Shop discount stores
Many bloggers have reported finding some Anthropologie brands at stores such as Marshalls, TJMaxx and some local discontinued clothing stores (we have two really great ones in the Bay Area where I often find some Anthro stuff from seasons past.) Some of the old stock gets sold to these discount retailers, so if you have one in your area check it out, you may find something!

9) Shop Ebay
I have found a few good items on ebay, and the offerings range from NWT to pre-owned (though I must admit, I don't buy pre-owned clothing). Note the seller's return policy, to make sure you know what kind of gamble you are taking if the item doesn't fit. For that reason, I prefer to shop directly from the store unless it's for an older item I can't get out of my mind. I also would cautiong against purchasing from resellers, as most of the time they are in the business of creating artificial demand and price gouging.

I hope you find these tips helpful, even if some are a bit obvious. Now, if you would indulge me, I would love to share what came in the mail this week, perhaps my greatest sale score ever at Anthro.

Tracy Reese Mariposa Lace Dress - orig. $248, paid $9.99

A very helpful community member posted on the Effortless Anthropologie blog that she would be returning this dress at her local store, so I promptly contacted her and she was able to put it on hold for me upon returning (thank you so much, Cecilia!) I purchased it over the phone for $19.95 and free shipping, and by the time it arrived, it had received a 4th cut to $9.99 on Monday. I took my receipt to my local store, and the rest if history. That is over 95% off!
Please feel free to share in the comments below your own tips and tricks, or the deals that you've gotten. I always love a "good deal" story!