Denim Debutante

GUESS and FIDM's new Design Challenge Partnership

2010-03-11T07:35:00.001-07:00

New York, NY – March 11, 2010 – GUESS, the lifestyle brand famous for its trendsetting styles and unforgettable campaigns, and FIDM / Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, are thrilled to announce the GUESS Design Challenge launching during the Annual FIDM Debut Fashion Show to benefit the FIDM Scholarship Foundation.

Every year, ten top students are selected for an advanced third year fashion design program, to present their first-ever fashion collections, each consisting of ten to twelve looks. An audience, of over 10,000 people, sees the FIDM Debut Show. This annual event is being held at the Barker Hangar, in Santa Monica, California in March, 2010. The partnership between GUESS and FIDM adds an exciting real world experience to each designer’s education. In addition, to creating their individual collections, each of the Advanced Fashion Design students will also design and present one GUESS look to the executives at GUESS, Inc. As in true GUESS form, the look will be denim focused, using washes previously chosen by the GUESS? Inc. design team and FIDM designers, ranging from clean to medium and vintage washes.

Mary Stephens, FIDM Director of Fashion Design relates: “This wonderful design challenge typifies the commitment of GUESS?, Inc. to create opportunities for young people. Our organizations, GUESS? Inc. and FIDM, have deep roots of parallel growth, both having been founded in Los Angeles. We enjoy a vibrant relationship that supports young people and changes lives. We’re so fortunate to call them our friends…they have fostered scholarships and jobs for countless FIDM students.”

One lucky winner’s design will be selected by Maurice Marciano, Chairman of the Board and Co-Founder of GUESS, Inc. The winning student will be offered the position of Design Assistant with the GUESS?, Inc. design department, as well as the opportunity to be involved in each step of the production process of their winning design, which will be incorporated into an upcoming season.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising for the annual Debut Fashion Show and are excited to expand on our long standing relationship with the college,” said Maurice Marciano, Chairman of the Board and Co-Founder of GUESS, Inc. “One of our strengths at GUESS is keeping our brand relevant to the ever-evolving consumer and in order to do so, we must find young and innovative talent, such as the highly gifted students we are partnering with at FIDM.

So, my fabulous up-and-coming designers, this is something exciting! Denim is a hard thing to just jump into, but GUESS has been doing it for quite some time... I look forward to seeing the outcome!

Love,
JP

Guest Blog: Is there Size Discrimination in Premium Denim?

2010-03-10T11:00:00.004-07:00

Kristy is a friend of mine whom I've been pestering to write here on the site since it started because she has a refreshing honesty and knows what she's talking about. Here's the back story on this post: Kristy fell for a pair of jeans and when I contacted the person I knew at the brand, they said that they didn't make anything above a 30. She was livid, I was livid (and pretty embarrassed, to be honest), and she decided it was time that people heard her story. - Love, JP

I am a size 12. This size is, reportedly, common in America. Yet just this week, when I fell in love with a super fabulous pair of skinny jeans in an unusual shade of violet, I discovered that the brand doesn't make their clothing for people my size. The message is "We don't want you in our clothes if you're above a size 10."

Why is that? Shouldn't these companies be competing for our business, instead of dictating the terms by which they allow us to give them our money?

For some retailers, such as Old Navy or Ann Taylor, is the message "We'll take your money but we don't want you in our store if you're above a size 12 or 14"? These companies offer plus size clothing for sale only online, and do not carry these sizes in their brick and mortar locations. While part of this is likely due to the fact that less popular sizes aren't sold as often, meaning that shipping and distributing these items in stores reduces the profitability of the business, the inability to find such sizes in stores doesn't increase consumer confidences for those who are outside of the chosen size range.

Often times stores that do carry my size, such as Anthropologie, only carry one of each item in sizes 10 or above. When I asked the sales clerk, she told me that size 10 and above "sell out immediately." I don't doubt this as sales racks often hold few if any items in larger sizes.

Not every brand can make every item in every size. I understand that. Profitability isn't what I'm arguing against - I'm opposed to the designers out there who don't offer above a certain size because "it doesn't fit with our look." You mean to tell me the 3-4" difference between one size and the next is going to completely ruin your entire brand aesthetic?

Is this conclusive evidence that companies are actively discriminating against larger sizes? No. But in a world where discrimination based on body size is often times considered acceptable, it's hard to understand the reasoning behind this sort of behavior from retailers.

For those of you who are a size 10 or above, here's a list of denim brands you may be disappointed to find have limited size ranges:

Siwy - 31
Blue Notch - 30
Vintage1 - 30
Sass & Bide - 30
Ksubi - 31

Disappointed? So was I. While there's a handful of companies such as Not Your Daughter's Jeans that make good basic staples, I've been on the hunt for some statement and trendy pairs of denim that also fit and flatter for over a year now. Every time Jaime writes about a new brand I'm always there to ask her about the fit and size range.

And, to denim creators and designers, I would like to propose a challenge. There are women just like me all across this country who are willing to give you our money, and you're not taking it. My only question is... why?

Sample Sale Alert: Rue La La Final Sale, Part One

2010-03-10T07:45:00.001-07:00

I'm probably not going to write about Part Two of Rue La La's Final Sale (though I'll probably send out a reminder tweet), but you should be ready for Part One!

I have no concrete knowledge of any brands that will be for sale, but whatever they are, they'll go crazy fast (and there's usually some denim in there, too). So, for those of you who don't have an account yet with Rue La La, feel free to use my invite link to get in.The rest of you? You know what to do.

More Sales:

- Rivet de Cru for Men and Women will be on TheSampleSale.com starting today. I have no experience whatsoever with this brand, so I can't really help you out sizing-wise (any readers who have tried this line, please comment and help us all out!), but the prices over at TSS have been pretty fab. Plus, if you don't have an account with them yet, sign up through my link and get a $10 credit, just for being you.

Happy Shopping!

Love,
JP

Miss Sixty up to 85% off at 6pm.com

2010-03-09T21:16:00.000-07:00

It looks to me like this sale is live now (don't hit me if the prices drop in an hour... I'm sorry!), but 6pm.com is having a Miss Sixty sale. From what I can gather, there are shoes, clothes and, of course, jeans, all up to 85% off!

From my experience, most pairs of Miss Sixty denim run about a half size small (other than their boyfriend jeans) but their shoes and tops run True to Size. If you've had other experiences - or just feel like chiming in about the brand - hit up the comments section.

I will say this: Miss Sixty is not one of my favorite brands. I kind of jump back and forth on whether I find some of their clothes tacky and pretentious or trendy and fun. But I have some friends who swear by the line... so, go with your gut, because nobody knows your style better than you. I know that in my experience, the items are definitely great quality for the price (and the inseams are about a 31", so rejoice, shorties!), just not really my preferred style.

Check out what they've got at 6pm.com, and let me know if you get anything!

Love,
JP

PS: Thank you to all of you who sent me get well emails. You're all so amazingly sweet... I'm finally feeling better and no longer puking, so yay for that!

West Coast: Nudie Jeans Pop-Up Shop

2010-03-09T13:09:00.001-07:00

I love C., but I'm willing to be someone's trophy girlfriend (so long as they're okay with me wearing jeans 95% of my waking hours) if they'll let me just hang out and go to amazing parties... like this one, hosted by Tobi.com

It's the first West Coast Nudie Pop-up shop and the event is this Wednesday, March 10th at Azalea from 6-9PM. It's going to be a fun time- denim, music, free PBR and vodka ... What more could you want? ;) Also, if you RSVP to rsvp@azaleasf.com you're automatically entered into a free denim giveaway.

Make sure that you RSVP, otherwise there will be some trouble at the door (and you don't want to miss free PBR, kids). You could even go in these under $100 Nudies... if you overnight them, at least!

Love,

ShopBop's End of Season Sale!

2010-03-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

Prices are starting in the $50s for denim (there are some INSANE other sales available too... but I gravitate straight to the jeans), with brands like Unknown Factory, Current/Elliott, DL1961 and many, MANY more to choose from!

Head over to Shopbop now and grab them before it's too late! If you need any help selecting an item, let me know... I'll do my best!

Love,
JP

Readers: Share Your Opinion and Win!

2010-03-08T17:30:00.000-07:00

I know I've said this before, but I really mean it - this site would not be what it is without all of you here! Since I'm not a mind reader (I'm working on it, I promise... but I think these things take time), I figured that I would go directly to the source of my inspiration: you!

So, here's where I need your help. I've chosen ten really easy questions (I wanted to add more, but I figured it would be better if I didn't scare you!) that will help shape the way that this site looks, feels and responds to you in the coming months. After all, we're only a few months away from our one year anniversary!

If you're an email subscriber, you've already received this (because you're totally and absolutely awesome... I'll be sending more fun, exclusive things in the future - but won't spam you. Because I'm kickass, and so are you)... but for the rest of you, it's your turn!

Please be 100% honest in all of your responses, and while criticism is welcomed with open arms, please be constructive. If you love something, say it! If you hate something (or want to see less of it), say that too!

What's in it for you? One person who fills out the entire survey and leaves his/her email address will be entered to win a tote bag full of denim goodies like hem tape, books and so much more, valued at approx. $200! I've collected a bunch of fun little gifts and things from companies that I either don't use or don't use enough, and they're too fabulous to go to waste (and hey, who knows... maybe I'll throw in a pair of jeans, too!!!).

You have until March 31st to get your entry in. Have any questions? Leave a comment here or email me at DenimDebutante@gmail.com. Good luck!

Love,
JP

Disclaimer: I will never, EVER sell your email address. These numbers and statistics, as well as some select comments, may be used in upcoming Media Kits, and will also shape the new changes for the site. The only reason you will be contacted via email is if you win... or are already a newsletter subscriber (which you should be... sign up for emails in the upper right corner!). No name or statement will be used without your approval beforehand. If you have a question or concern, please email me.

Announcing the Mavi Jeans x Denim Debutante Winners!

2010-03-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

I'm usually really, really good about getting posts up right away when it comes to winners, but my weekend has included sickness, stress and taxes... not really a conducive environment to writing (or even sitting at my computer for extended periods of time, for that matter). I'm home sick from work, wallowing in a special brand of ickyness, but I can cheer up, because I'm about to make two people's days!

Here are the winners of the Mark and Serena jeans from Mavi:

The Mark goes to Loafshine and the Serena to FaithJ! Congrats to both of you... I'll be emailing you shortly with all the information we need, and I'm so excited for you to get these babies! Hopefully we'll be seeing much more of Mavi on the site, so those of you who are big fans of the brand have something to look forward to!

Thank you SO much to everyone who entered this giveaway and all of our other giveaways as well. I'm so glad that you all have found value on this site... you keep me going, even when I've spent six hours with my head in the toilet!

Want to join the list of denim brands that have been reviewed on DenimDebutante.com, or interested in sponsoring a giveaway? Contact me for more details!

Love,
JP

Sample Sale Alert: Antik Denim on Beyond the Rack

2010-03-08T08:54:00.003-07:00

Antik Denim for men and women will be available starting at 11am EST today on BeyondtheRack.com. Sizing is fairly true (those of you who own multiple pairs - add your two cents in the comments, please!), and the prices look like they'll be good. Let me know if you snag anything... and if you know of any Beyond the Rack coupon codes, leave them in the comments for all of us to share!

Also for sale today: Kasil on Hautelook. The prices on this sale are fabulous (even the highly coveted Benatar jeans are less than $50!!!), so they'll go fast. Head over ASAP! For sizing recommendations, please read my Kasil denim review.

Love,
JP

New Denim Brand: WTFJeans (Yes, that is their name.)

2010-03-07T10:45:00.000-07:00

I caught an article about these babies on Mashable, and I thought I should share this with all the guys of the world.

These, my friends, are the WTF Jeans.

Here's what Mashable shared about them:

If you were ever frustrated by the lack of iPhone/iPod touch pocket on your jeans, here’s a treat for you: wtfJeans. This freshly launched indie jeans brand was just a blueprint three months ago, but things happen fast on the Internet, and now you can order them from the online shop, in boy/girl varieties.

What’s so special about these jeans? Well, they have an iPhone/iPod touch pocket with micro-fiber interior protection, as well as a hidden, high-security USB stick pocket. These should be a perfect fit for your gadgets, unlike the pockets usually found on, well, regular jeans. While we cannot comment on build quality, fit style and all those other things that make you love or hate a pair of jeans, the idea of jeans with custom pockets for our favorite gadgets warms our geeky hearts.

According to the site, the jeans are still in beta stage (whatever that means), and the first pairs are expected to ship on May 2, at the price of 59 euros (80 dollars).

I'm not sure I really need a pair (they are kind of hideous), but they're fun... and I have a couple friends who would probably love them!

Love,
JP

Denim Under $100 at beso.com

2010-03-06T10:02:00.003-07:00

In a world of too-high prices and not enough quality, sometimes it's nice to find a fun and affordable brand that you can really love. Is it easy? No.

So, that's why I'm doing the work for you! If you head over to beso today (and, any time beyond today... it's not like they delete my stuff. That'd be silly.), you can see the list of my top three favorite Denim Brands under $100. One, you should expect... but the other two will probably be a surprise!

But, if three wasn't enough, there's one more I thought should be added to the list: Mavi Jeans. I have definitely been very pleased with how wonderful these babies have worked for my figure, and with the different inseams and a price below $100, they are a must have... plus, beso has a great selection of pairs under $50 on their list!

I've told you this a million times, but it never hurts to say it again: you CAN look fabulous without paying an arm and a leg. I'm here to help you... and so is beso.com!

Love,
JP

Sample Sale Alert: Ksubi and Proportion of Blu on Gilt Fuse

2010-03-06T07:44:00.000-07:00

Gilt likes to taunt me with their amazing sales and fabulous brands. I own some Proportion of Blu (the White Paint Skinny, which I snagged from Billion Dollar Babes), but still no Ksubi.

I expect this sale to go pretty fast if the prices are right ($90 and below), so be ready! If you don't already have a Gilt account, click here to use my Gilt Fuse invite (it works for all of the Gilt stores - Gilt Groupe, Gilt Man, Gilt Fuse and Jetsetter). Once you're in, let me know what you buy!

Happy Shopping!

Love,
JP

30% off Gap Jeans with Donation

2010-03-05T15:30:00.000-07:00

Alright, here's the thing: I've had less than stellar experiences with Gap jeans throughout my entire life (and yes, I did try the new line... they're not worth it, compared to many of the brands I've worn and loved), but I know that my opinion is only one and many of you like the brand. So, for that reason, I figured that you might like to check out this Gap Jeans discount:

Through March 14th, Gap will be accepting your old denim and giving you 30% off their new denim. My guess is that since they specify "New", you won't be able to combine that with discounted jeans, but for Gap fans, this might be a great deal.

GapCard gets you 35% off, but I'm not condoning you getting a Credit Card for an extra 5%.

Tell me: what have your experiences with Gap Jeans been like? I had one pair in Freshman year of High School (so, 2000) that I liked, and that's the last and only pair that has made the cut. It seems like their brand just isn't made for me.

Love,
JP

Last Chance to Enter: Mavi for Men and Women! (CLOSED)

2010-03-05T12:00:00.001-07:00

There are only a couple of hours left on the Mavi giveaway... the company has so graciously offered to giveaway not only a pair of the women's Serena Super Skinny, but also a pair of the men's Mark Tapered Leg!

Head over to the giveaway to enter now... I'll be announcing the winner tomorrow.

Good luck!

Love,
JP

Sample Sale Alert: Stitch's on Billion Dollar Babes!

2010-03-05T07:45:00.004-07:00

Ahh... the sample sale that so many of you have been waiting for this week... specifically the two amazing women who shared their experiences with you! Stitch's will appear on Billion Dollar Babes today at 11am EST.

Don't have a Billion Dollar Babes account? Click here to use my invite code. Already shop there? Click here for my affiliate link (it costs you nothing, and I get a percentage of the purchase you make).

Also, before you shop, make sure to use our exclusive Billion Dollar Babes coupon code to get $10 off any purchase you make over $100 (as well as free shipping at $150)! Just type STITCH10 into the promo code box for the deal! This will work for ALL the sales on Friday and Saturday (Qi Cashmere, Marquis & Camus and Azuri as well as the Stitch's).

Need more info on the brand? Check out the Stitch's Jeans review from Sandy and Paula. If you need more style tips or advice, leave a comment on this post.

Happy Shopping!

Love,
JP

Trend Alert: The Baby Boot Cut Jean

2010-03-04T16:55:00.001-07:00

This, my dear friends, is certainly something different from your standard pair of jeans. Hudson Denim is introducing a new style for the Spring 2010 season and they've named it the "Baby Boot". The style has been altered from the worlds most "classic cut" jean: the Boot Cut.

The Baby Boot silhouette hits at the ankle with a slight flare and a shorter inseam.

So, while they look different on the model (and I'm not sure that I would wear them with heels, even if I wore them as intended), I think that these could have a future. Here's why:

There are short girls, myself included, who would buy these for the sheer fact that they don't need hemming. Call it laziness, or opportunistic, but I can bet that at least 25 readers right now are thinking "Yep... that's how I'd wear them".

If I were to wear them as styled (a jean with a cropped ankle boot), they would be a flats-only pair. I think they could definitely work in that respect... just avoid the heels. The wash you see above, Love Lane, is the only one currently available, but additional washes will be released in April.

What do you think about the Baby Boot from Hudson Jeans? Love it, hate it, or would you just wear it a different way? Share your opinions!

Love,
JP

Denim Advice: Why Should I Buy Premium Denim?

2010-03-04T11:20:00.001-07:00

You've probably been reading this site for a while, but you might not own a pair of high-end denim yet... and that's fine. In the next few weeks, I'm going to give you a little bit of information on why you should consider taking the plunge. I'll try to do it bit by bit so that I don't overwhelm you, because I'm extremely passionate about the power of perfect jeans.

Maybe it will change your mind (or, adversely, it might make you more set in your ways, which is fine too!) and show you why an investment in a pair of jeans is an investment in yourself. Here are the top five reasons you should buy high-end denim!

1. Have a not-so-standard shape? We've got a jean for that. The benefits of having such a denim-heavy fashion market is that there really is a little bit for everyone, and you really should be able to find the perfect pair. It might take a little time, and it might cost a little money, but you can find them... and they'll make all the difference. I've talked to so many women who HATED jean shopping until they found what worked for them (and stopped wearing what didn't). It's such a change.

2. Inseams an issue? I gripe a lot about the lack of multiple inseams, but there are far more options when you get into premium denim. I've seen everything from a 28" inseam to a 37" inseam... and while those aren't standard (standard, from my experience, is about 32"), they're definitely available. I still have to hem jeans every now and again, but it's worth having that $25 (at maximum, guys! Don't spend more than $25, even for an original hem.) to get them altered.

3. Need a little self-esteem boost? Now, I'm not saying that you should be basing your self-esteem and self-worth on some indigo fabric, but there is something to be said about a perfect fitting pair of jeans. When I put on a pair that makes me feel amazing, it actually changes my day. What's the perfect pair for me? A slim-fitting, soft skinny at the right inseam... well, at least for now.

4. Quality over quantity. I'm probably not the best example of this (since you've all seen a part of my ridiculous denim collection), but there's a special trick when it comes to buying jeans: if you buy quality, you don't need to replace them as often. This doesn't always work (for example, if you're C. and you wear your Paper Denim & Cloth jeans when you're messing with battery acid... no, I'm not bitter), but 90% of the time, you'll be able to keep these jeans for a longer time. If you commit the money, you're not going to treat them the same way that you do your crappy pair and I can actually tell you that I've had jeans that lasted... six years. One pair. It's worth the investment.

5. Cost doesn't need to be an issue. We all know that I'm broke, and it's a running joke around my day job (and from C.) that I listen to financial radio shows and am in the midst of reading a bunch of financial books (I'm reading The Millionaire Next Door. My father is so proud!). So, how to I balance that with my desire to wear the best jeans? Sales. If it weren't for sales, I wouldn't wear nearly the amount of denim I do. If you have a pair you want, but don't have the money, decide what they're worth to you and wait until they're on sale at that price. If they don't hit your target, it wasn't meant to be... there will always be another pair.

Too much to take in at once? Don't worry... I'll be breaking them down in the upcoming weeks and, if you have any questions or concerns, you know where to reach me!

Love,
JP

New York: Earnest Sewn Sample Sale

2010-03-04T07:30:00.001-07:00

Screw you guys in New York with your fancy taxis and great sample sales. If I didn't love you all so much, I'd hate you. :)

Here's another fabulous in-person Sample Sale, this time for Earnest Sewn. It's running from the 4th to the 7th, and the prices are looking pretty great.

You can enlarge the image to see more details, but the men's and women's jeans will be $70, and everything else ranges from $15 to $100... plus, they take credit cards (I know it tends to be a problem for some of you Sample Sale hunters when they don't, so that's great).

Shop away, and if you see anything that screams my name, I won't be offended if I find it in my mailbox next week. Just sayin'.

Love,
JP

More from Diesel's "Be Stupid" Campaign

2010-03-03T19:05:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be so sad when I run out of these, because they just brighten my day (and for those of you who are offended by them, I'm sorry... but I just get the giggles. Life's too short, after all). So, here's today's Be Stupid post:

I wish I still had the fun, carefree imagination of my childhood. That's exactly what this reminds me of.

Love,
JP

Denim Brand Review: Stitch's Jeans

2010-03-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

Because I don't have enough resources (or storage space, really) to sample every brand, sometimes I'm lucky enough to have great readers who are willing to share their experiences with us so you can be as informed as possible before buying a different denim line. That's exactly what's happening today, as Paula (who has written about her denim before) and new writer Sandy tell you about Stitch's Jeans.

Paula: Ignorance can be bliss!

I happened upon Stitch’s jeans purely by accident when I was still a newbie to the world of sample sales. Honestly, what attracted me first was the cheap price on this particular pair of jeans (seriously $59!!). Of course, this was back in the day when I still possessed some semblance of restraint when it came to the price I was willing to pay for a pair of desired denim – oh how my pocket book (and husband) long for those bygone days!

Anyway, after being drawn in by the crazy price, I became obsessed with the look of these particular Cherokee bootcut jeans in Crow wash and decided that I had to have them. Ok, so, I bought them having no knowledge of the designer, in complete ignorance of the sizing (I went with my true size), and without a clue about the cut. Yeah, like that will work out! However, apparently fashion karma was with me on that day because not only was the fit perfect, but they were and continue to be one of the most unique and cool additions to my denim collection.

Why, you ask? First, the unique aged wash that gives them that crinkled, lived in look, is done in antique wood barrels at an old laundry facility in Evansville, Wyoming. The denim undergoes extensive washes using a patented aging process. Also, the unusual indigoes are collected from Europe, Japan and the United States. And, in an attempt to fuse the Old West with equal parts Rock-n-Roll and Americana, Stitch’s creator, Albert Dahan, added special touches such as brass fittings with an aged patina and a button that has the imprint of an Indian head from the 1880’s antique minted five-cent piece (the button on the men’s Jeans is an imprint of the Buffalo Head from the other side of the 1880’s antique minted five-cent piece) How cool is that??

Continuing along that theme, all the women’s jeans are named after Native American Tribes and all the men’s jeans are named after US States. Truthfully, my favorite feature is the aged, antique looking fabric that lines the waistband and pockets! I love special touches like that.

Subsequent research also uncovered a few interesting pieces of information regarding Stitch’s. For instance, Stitch’s creator, Albert Dahan, is also the creator of one of my other favorite clothing lines, DaNang; Albert Dahan and Joe’s Jeans creator, Joe Dahan are brothers; and, Albert and Joe, at one time, sold Sasson Jeans.

If you want unique, cool, different, try a pair of Stitch’s jeans. Maybe fashion karma will shine on you, too!

Sandy: Stitch's give me enough room in the upper thigh, while still giving the pants a good shape. The fabric is hearty (tho thinner with the cords), and it's obvious a lot of love went into making them. I'm a huge fan of flap back pockets because my butt is relatively flat, and these give me some oomph there. The way the bootcuts are styled make my legs look super lean to the knee, but then flare out perfectly to give my calves some shape. Oh yeah, and the "stitching" is superb! The cords have a great deal of stretch to them, too.

Thank you so much to both Sandy and Paula! By the way, I asked the specific sizing for each woman; Sandy is wearing a 27 in both pairs of blue jeans - the Chekore Bootcut in Ryder and Rifle - and a 28 in the Maya Cords in Pomegranate. Paula is wearing a 25 in her Cherokee Bootcut in Crow... and they both look amazing!

Want a coupon code for Stitch's (that are already at Sample Sale prices)? You'll get one on Friday, so stay tuned!

Sample Sale Alert: Anoname and Primp on The Sample Sale

2010-03-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

Why is this such a fun sale? Anoname runs about $110, so prices should be around $35-40. If you sign up with my link, you should get $10 in your account... making this a super sweet deal! Also, grab an entire outfit by buying some pretty Primp pieces (I own a thermal from them and I love it... I've had it about three years and it still looks practically new)!

New to The Sample Sale? Use my referral link (I don't get paid anything, but you get $10 in credit for signing up! And, if you do buy, I get $10 in credit too.) and let me know if you plan on grabbing something and need help. If you know of any coupon codes for The Sample Sale, leave them in the comments for all of us to use!

If you want to read the review before you buy, here's my Anoname Jeans Review.

Happy Shopping!

Love,
JP

New Denim Collaboration: Marni and Current/Elliott

2010-03-02T12:25:00.000-07:00

Because it's the season for fun denim announcements, here's a fabulous one featuring a brand you've seen on here frequently - Current/Elliott - and one that's brand new - Marni!

From DenimBlog:

The latest designer collaboration comes fresh from the runways of Milan. Fashion house Marni just announced their collaboration with denim power house, Current/Elliott.

The two will be launching a co-branded label later in the year. However, the line will be anything but ordinary. As the CEO, Gianni Castiglioni stated, “The product we did is not classic.”

I think this is going to be so fun that it should probably be criminal. Cannot WAIT to see the pictures! Are you guys as excited as I am, or am I the lone duck on this hunt for fabulous denim?

Love,
JP

Sample Sale Alert: Siwy on Gilt Groupe

2010-03-02T08:00:00.001-07:00

Why is Siwy a brand that I have to alert you about? Well, if we don't consider the Siwy jeans review I just posted yesterday, it's the only recent brand that I've bought two pairs of... and, now that I'm not buying jeans, it's probably the last brand I've bought a pair from in a while.

They'll be appearing on Gilt today at 12pm EST. In my opinion, if the prices are higher than $65, I'd avoid the sale... they'll come up somewhere else for cheaper. If they're lower than $65, the deal is good.

Don't have a Gilt Groupe account? Get one by clicking here.

Happy shopping!

Love,
JP

Best Marketing Campaign Ever: Diesel's "Be Stupid"

2010-03-01T18:37:00.000-07:00

I want to break this up into a few different posts, because they really make me smile, so I'm just going to drop one on here every now and then. No need to thank me, you can just give me love (and money).

I love a little fun and controversy with my Monday.

Love,
JP

Denim Brand Review: Siwy Denim

2010-03-01T12:30:00.001-07:00

Beauty and great fit are two extremely important aspects of a pair of jeans, especially when they can come together so well. Every brand has a few hitches, but Michelle Siwy's namesake line is one many women are slowly learning about and growing to love.

Here's a little background on the brand:

Developed in the country's best wash and sewing facilities in California, Siwy’s superlative, modern tailoring creates a figure flattering denim fit with unprecedented comfort. Quilted pockets lift and shape the backside, and seams carefully follow a woman’s natural curves while subtleties of aging, tinting, wrinkling, and washing add to the design. All lines in the jean accommodate the body and its characteristics when moving, sitting or standing.

Long, lean shapes have become a signature look and are softened by a shortened, curved hem at the back of the leg. This discrete design element avoids a dragging hem when worn with sneakers or heels while maintaining a height illusion for women of all sizes. Unexpected takes on classic shapes, such as denim shorts, pencil skirts and cropped styles, add novelty and variety to the collection. Siwy produces four collections per year, each forging ahead with fashion trend and fit.

Each piece is finished with hand-crafted labels made out of vintage feedsack cloth. Starting in the late eighteen forties through the mid twentieth century, feedsacks were an integral part of rural American life. Over time, they took on colorful graphics and patterns as advertising. Before it was ever fashionable, the patterned fabric from used feedsacks was recycled into garments and quilts by home-making women on the frontier. Today, Siwy utilizes this same idea to create a labeling system that ensures that each pair is a one-of-a-kind, original piece of vintage Americana.

So, while that bio is full of a lot of fun, yet fairly useless information (the fact that they use vintage feedsacks is pretty cool, despite its unimportance), there are definitely a couple of points that are good to note: first, the long and lean aspect of this line is definitely one that stands out in my book. There's noting really technical about it; shorter hems tend to elongate the leg, and the Hannah (which I'm wearing above) does this well.

I personally own two pairs of the Hannah cut and they fit comfortably (on the snug end of True to Size) while still being flattering. They have a good amount of give, and definitely don't require any hemming for us short girls (this only holds true for the Hannah; their bootcut, flare and some straight legs are at 35" inseams).

Downsides? I think the pockets are a little bit too far apart, and they make my butt look a bit wider. Once again, this could be a special trait of my backside, but it's something to keep in mind. They don't offer multiple inseams (which is starting to feel redundant now, since it seems like there are really only two brands that do) in the same style, and they're very geared on trends (even though they do it well... the Hannah in Snowstorm is a good example).

I truly enjoy my Siwy jeans; they're soft, comfortable and have a great figure-flattering shape that's easy to wear for most figures. I would probably avoid the Hannah cut if you're Pear shaped, but the brand offers enough different options that you should be able to find something workable. Is it my favorite brand? No, but it's definitely one that I thoroughly enjoy.

Want another opinion? Here's what Kirsten has to say about the brand:

Siwy jeans have definitely become a very popular denim line in the last year. A quick look to eBay and you will see that they go for damn near their regular asking price. This is not true of some of the older, well-established premium denim lines. You can often find screaming deals on those brands, but Siwy not so much. A couple of weeks ago during my daily morning ritual, which includes drinking my cup of coffee (a must) while perusing through my emails of the daily sample sales and other bargains, I came across a Siwy sale and decided it was time to jump on the bandwagon. I had to think fast with this one as sizes were going fast and it was one of those "quick buy it now or it will be too late type of moments." So, I did what every other denim lover would do, buy! I did a quick look to Denim Debutante (but of course!) and a few other retail sites to see what people were saying about fit and sizing. Most felt that they may run tight, but with the way they stretch you should stick with your regular size. So, that is what I did. I picked out a pair of the Hannah style (recommended by JP herself) in a light gray color. (My first denim color that was not blue or black!!!!)

To say I was excited for these to come would have been an understatement. The day they arrived in the mail I ran home and tried them on immediately. What?!??! Why could I barely fit these over my legs and button them????? Ok, so I know I had been hitting the sweets hard lately, but really, it couldn't be this bad. Ladies....I know you all have been here at this moment and think to yourself, "WTF. Really?!?!" I did remember that the jeans were supposed to stretch and decided to wear them around the house and break them in a little to see if it made a difference. (I can tell you I would not have been caught dead walking around with jeans this tight outside the comfort of my own house!) How many of you have first only worn your jeans at home to break them in a few times before wearing them out on their "first big night/day out"?

Needless to say its been a couple weeks and they are fitting better (mostly due to me being a good girl again) and also due to the stretching that everyone mentions. I do feel that they still run tight on me and if you have more of a round behind (me) and athletic legs, you may find them tighter than other people. If you run a little leaner in the legs, you probably would find them to fit very close to TTS. The Hannah is designed to fit tight throughout the legs (almost like leggings it seems) and cropped right at the ankle. A very cute look. I am impressed as this seems to work with both short and long legs. This style has their signature quilting on the back pockets (I like it better on the white and gray jeans than the blue though, it almost makes them too busy) and I have read some call the pockets "tulip-shaped." They have a higher backside so you won't experience gaping as the waist, which is just so unflattering. .

All in all, I am a fan. I will be happier when I can wear them out feeling more comfortable in them but I think with my body style that these may just fit tight and if you like them with a bit more room to move, purchase a size up. I definitely notice the stretch beginning to give, so do keep that in mind. I find these jeans to be really sexy, figure flattering, and a great pair to dress up. Pick your size based on your body style, and you're golden.

Love,
JP