Category Archives: Fashion

9 Things You Just Shouldn’t Wear When Working Out

PERFECT, John Travolta, 1985. ©Columbia Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

PERFECT, John Travolta, 1985. ©Columbia Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

I was out walking my dogs the other day when a woman jogged past, and I couldn’t help but notice her chest, which happened to be bouncing out of control. Three thoughts immediately ran through my head:

Way to go! I love seeing people putting in work and breaking a sweat. 

Dear God, that looks painful. Does she know what’s happening to those poor ligaments?! 

Huh, having something there to actually bounce must be nice, though…

I’ll spare you the details of the rest of my internal monologue, but the point is that it reminded me of the importance of wearing the right gear — not only to maximize your workouts, but also to minimize any potential nasty side effects, such as said bouncing, chafing, snagging, riding up, falling down, constricting, tripping or worse (injury).

Plus, let’s face it — when you look good, you feel good. And when you feel good, you can give it all you’ve got, whether you’re hitting the gym, running the trails or competing at an event.

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Here are my nine no-no’s when it comes to suiting up for that next sweat session:

1. Unsupportive Sports Bras (or Shorts)

Ladies, did you know that you can do permanent damage to connective tissue over time if you neglect to give your breasts the correct support? And, gentlemen, you’re not immune to the jostling of certain body parts either. So, regardless of gender, do yourself a favor and find something that provides plenty of reinforcement for high-impact activities.

2. 100 Percent Cotton Clothing

It might be the fabric of our lives, but it’s the foe of comfortable workouts. Cotton is wonderfully absorbent, but that’s also it’s downfall; damp, slow-drying shirts tend to bring on chills and irritate skin. Instead, opt for synthetics and moisture-wicking fabrics, which are quick-drying, lightweight and designed for efficient evaporation.

3. Baggy Layers

Tempted to tent that not-quite-beach-ready body in loose-fitting clothing? Little do you know, you’re creating a potential safety hazard. Not only does extra material up your chances of getting snagged on equipment, but it also prevents you from checking form and alignment. Exchange oversized apparel for more form-fitting gear, which doubles as extra incentive to get to the gym!

4. Overly-Constrictive Pieces

Too loose isn’t good, but too tight isn’t any better. Any outfit you have to pour yourself into will only hamper movement, threaten circulation and probably make you feel pretty self-conscious. Instead, find a happy medium with fabrics and cuts that skim your figure and allow for a full range of motion.

5. Past-Their-Prime Shoes 

You maybe tempted to squeeze a few more miles into fraying footwear, but it’s better to ditch your kicks before you put yourself at risk for injury. Worn-out treads and flattened arch support won’t serve you well in the long run — and could actually do some damage during long runs. Replace your sneakers every 500 miles or so, and consider a gait analysis to find the best model for you.

6. Too Much Bling

I may sound old-school, and it’s probably because this was drilled into me early in my high school track & field years, but the only metal objects you should be swinging around at the gym are kettlebells. This will allow you to concentrate on the task at hand, rather than keeping your necklace or earrings from getting caught or damaged.

Rings, especially, should be kept at home or stowed away. You only have to hear one horror story about an engagement bauble getting stolen after being left behind in a gym shower to set you straight on this one. True story.

7. Eau de Poo Poo

An inside joke in my family, this is the nickname we give to stinky perfumes. Whether you’re squeezed into the close quarters of spin class, taking a dip in your gym’s pool or lined up mat-to-mat in yoga, please forgo strong scents. Body heat and sweat only intensify the issue, and the last thing you want is to ruin your classmate’s workout by giving them a stomach-turning headache.

8. Untested Apparel 

You snag a deal on some gear, and then later realize why it was deeply discounted — because it sucks. Yep, been there, done that. It was mid-bootcamp, in fact, when a friend gave me a heads up on my too-thin tights (oops). So take it from me: Use the ‘try before you buy’ rule by jumping around and bending over in the dressing room in order to avoid anything see-through, low-cut or otherwise offensive.

9. Almost Anything Gray

Unless you’re prepared to own some pretty awkwardly-placed post-workout sweat stains, avoid the color gray for super-intense exercise. I learned this the hard way while marathon training in one of my favorite styles of (gray) capris last fall. I still love ’em, but now I just use that pair for less sweaty endeavors, such as restorative yoga, hiking and Pilates classes.

Are there any off-limits outfits you’d add to the list? 

StitchFix Shipment No. 6 Review

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My previous StitchFix (read about it here) netted me one new top. I ended up playing it safe with something I knew I’d wear consistently, so I’ve been eagerly anticipating a spring shipment in order to brighten up the ‘ole wardrobe.

For my sixth installment I requested some seasonal colors and a maxi dress for warmer weather. I also asked my stylist if she could track down one of my all-time favorite StitchFix tops: the 41Hawthorn Colibri Solid Tab Sleeve Blouse, which I love pairing with boyfriend jeans and ballet flats.

New to StitchFix? Read all about how it works here. 

Let’s check out what came in this month’s box, shall we?

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First up was the Gilli Sebastian Maxi Dress ($74). While I usually try to steer clear of horizontal stripes, the nautical colors are one of my favorite combos for summer.

Initially, I wasn’t so sure about the waist, though; it hits somewhere between bust and waistline (neither an empire nor a true waist). But it was actually quite flattering when I tried it on, so into the ‘maybe’ pile it went.

Plus, the fabric’s super soft and comfy. Jersey FTW!

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Next was the 41Hawthorn Queensland Dolman Jersey Top ($48). Uh oh.

Any time I see the word “Dolman” (i.e. loose, baggy top with tight sleeves) I run for the hills because the style’s never worked for me. The color, however, is one of my favorites, so I figured I’d give it a shot.

Out of the box? Meh. But once on? Loved it! Not only was the jersey soft and stretchy, but the cut also worked better than I expected. Into the ‘maybe’ pile went this one, as well.

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Third was the 41Hawthorn Moni Geo Print & Camisole Blouse ($58). It’s the same style as a previous StitchFix top I bought, just with a different pattern and color scheme, so I knew it’d fit nicely.

The only questionable part was the sheerness fabric; I wasn’t sure if I’d love the look of the camisole peeking through, but then again it could be a light and breezy option for the warm summer months.

Liz (my stylist) also mentioned that I could wear it two ways — with jeans for a casual look or with white pants if I wanted to dress it up. I like having options, and I love those options to be no-brainers, so this one also went into the ‘maybe’ pile for later, too.

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Finally came the pieces I’d been waiting for: the 41 Hawthorn Colibri Solid Tab Sleeve Blouse ($48) in two colors (aqua and purple). As I mentioned above, I’d gotten one of these in deep pink in a previous Fix and loved it.

Why mess with a good thing? I was thrilled when Liz included not one, but two, of these in vibrant, gem-tone colors.

Dress ’em up or dress ’em down, these tops are versatile, chic and make for an effortless outfit. Less spandex, more real clothing — that’s my mantra for the season — and my two new blouses should help.

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So what made the cut? Drum roll…everything!

I’ve already worn the dress to a family dinner, the Dolman top to a weekend brunch and one of the blouses to drinks with girlfriends. Liz nailed it, and with all of these colorful basics to mix and match for summer, plus a 25 percent discount for ordering everything in the box, it was an easy decision this time around.

My next fix is scheduled for early August, and I requested some transitional pieces for late summer and early fall. Can’t wait to see what comes next, but in the meantime I’m looking forward to some consistently-warm weather, so I can pull the shorts and while pants out of storage to pair with my fun, new tops!

Want to try StitchFix? Use my referral link to fill out your style profile and get started.

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. I simply love the service and think it’s fun to share my experience. I pay for Stitch Fix on my own. If you sign up using my referral link, I’ll get a credit…so thanks in advance for fueling my next fix! 

The Case for Yoga Pants (+ prAna Discount Code!)

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Throughout my high school and college running days, “workout gear” meant — quite literally — anything hanging on by its last thread: extra-large cotton t-shirts, stretched-out tube socks and over-sized shorts with elastic waists, for example. You get picture.

But my attitude changed in 2002 when I bought my first “splurge” item — a Brooks long-sleeved tech shirt — at the Chicago Marathon expo. In a classic rookie move, I wore it for the first time to run 26.2 the next day…but miraculously it performed beautifully in all of its sweat-wicking, non-chafing glory.

That experience forever changed my view of workout gear: No longer were my tops and bottoms merely “something to sweat in;” they became part of my training arsenal — not only to keep me comfortable and to help me perform, but also (occasionally) to be a major motivating factor in getting my butt up and out the door for workouts.

Because, let’s face it, when we look good, we feel good. And when we feel good, we can take on the world. Or at least a 6 a.m. spin class.

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Case in point: When prAna and Fit Approach partnered up last month for the #TakeTheLeap challenge in which we were encouraged to #BringYogaBack for 30 days.

I knew it was going to take a lot more than old fashioned willpower to get myself on the mat throughout the month. Don’t get me wrong — I love yoga — it’s just a challenge being present and working quietly when your default is hard-charging, goal-oriented workouts.

But when prAna sweetened the deal by throwing in an outfit from their new Early Spring collection, I knew we were speaking the same language. If you build it, they will come; it you make it cute (and comfy), they will om.  

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First on my wish list was the Florence Capri in Neon Orange ($79). Because neon orange.

If the color’s not enough to get your heart pitter-pattering, the design will have you swooning. From the flattering wide waistband to the compression Chakara performance fabric to the smooth seams, these pants fit like a second skin — without being overly constrictive.

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And then there’s the Piper Top in Cool Green ($69). I stepped slightly out of my wheelhouse with this one; I’m not usually partial to blousy tops, but sometimes you just need a nice, relaxed drape to skim, rather than squeeze, your stomach.

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Another lovely detail is the drawcord hem; loosen it up for longer coverage, or cinch it up to shorten the length and for added security — aka if you’re not into baring that belly during inversions.

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But my favorite feature that made this pick a no-brainer? The straps!

They’re adjustable, and I’m not just talking about the bra-type sliders. Nope, these babies can be converted from traditional shoulder straps to an X-back for both support and style purposes.

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Mindfully designed. Built to last. And best of all? Available at a discount, just in time to brighten up your wardrobe for spring! Use KineticFix’s special code (psps15KF) at checkout for 15% off your entire order.

Happy shopping — and sweating, friends!

StitchFix Shipment No. 5 Review

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My previous StitchFix (read about it here) was a success — I scored an adorable LBD, just in time for holiday parties — so much so that I knew it’d be a hard act to follow.

For my fifth installment I requested some dressy casual blouses and tops for work, along with a brighter color palette to carry me from the gray of Portland winter into spring.

New to StitchFix? Read all about how it works here. 

Let’s check out what came in this month’s box, shall we?

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First up was the Braddon Airy Knit V-Neck Sweater from RD Style ($68). Pretty color? Check. Luxurious feel? Check.

I loved how soft and cozy this one was, and the fit was flattering with the slightly longer back, however the loose knit is slightly concerning for someone who is pretty active — a.k.a. prone to getting it caught on something.

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Next was the Giorgio Cowl Neck Long Sleeve Thermal Top from Splendid ($84). Again, great color and super-soft fabric. And although you can’t see it well in the picture, it’s got a delicate waffle weave, which makes this top a perfect mix of dressy-casual.

But $84? I’m on a budget and would have to love it to justify that price.

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Third was the Quito Open Drape Cardigan from Market & Spruce ($68). It’s not something I’d typically wear, but that’s what I love about StitchFix — the stylists help push you out of your comfort zone.

Becca recommended pairing it with chambray, and I thought it might go well with some of my cowboy boot collection, as well!

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After that came the Filbert 3/4 Sleeve Popover Blouse from 41Hawthorn ($58). Becca knows me well enough by now to know that the jewel-toned blouse is my sweet spot. I love pairing it with boyfriend jeans, ballet flats and simple jewelry.

But I’ve got these in pink, blue and a black checkered pattern; do I need one in green, as well?

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And, finally, was the Emer Bootcut Pant from Margaret M ($98). She nailed it with the size, and I love a simple, classic pant with a figure-flattering bootcut.

However, I’m not sure if I can shell out $100 for a basic black pant when it’s more of a want than a need at this point.

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So what made the cut? I was stumped, so I used three lifelines (my sister, a friend and my husband) to help narrow things down. Look number one got thumbs up from my girlfriend, but a thumbs down from my sister, so that was out. Look number three got a yay from my sister, but a nay from my girlfriend, so that was out.

And when I polled Ben, he just asked if I really needed another piece of clothing right now, so that didn’t help much.

In the end, I went with the green top (look number four). Sure, it’s the “safe” choice, as my sister said — but it’s also the one I’m sure I’ll consistently get the most use out of, which means it’s the best value. The others are great, but I see myself wearing them maybe once or twice, so I’m staying conservative this time and going with the sure thing.

My next fix is scheduled for early May, and I requested some bold, bright colors for summer. I also asked that she throw a fun sundress or skirt in the mix so I have something fresh and fun to wear for my birthday festivities later that month, so I’m excited for shipment number six!

Want to try StitchFix? Use my referral link to fill out your style profile and get started.

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. I simply love the service and think it’s fun to share my experience. I pay for Stitch Fix on my own. If you sign up for Stitch Fix using my referral link, I will get a credit…thanks! 

Dressing Up in the Hottest Activewear From Down Under

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As you can imagine, working for a fitness start-up certainly has its perks. Sure, taking meetings over yoga mats and counting spandex as “business” attire is great, but what really gets our blood pumping is partnering with some pretty spectacular brands — and getting to give people a heads up about stuff we absolutely love.

Case in point: Lorna Jane, which I was introduced to while living in San Francisco. At first, I questioned whether Australia’s leading women’s sports label could compete with the likes of Lululemon and Athleta, even in a city that’s synonymous with yoga pants.

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But we really identified with the brand’s positive message and Move Nourish Believe philosophy — not to mention their clothing is the kind that’ll get you stopped in the street by people who want to know where they can get it. Needless to say, it wasn’t much of a shocker that that brand took SF by storm; if it was cute, colorful and functional, you could bet it came from Lorna Jane.

So when I heard they were bringing a store to the Portland area and that they were giving our team at Fit Approach (SweatGuru’s sister company) an opportunity to go in for a personal styling session to try on the new fall line, I wasn’t sure I’d be able to contain myself. But the grand opening day finally came, and at last week’s party I met with a stylist who asked me about my typical activities and clothing preferences before pulling several looks to try.

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First up was this green tank with a black sports brand and leggings. Normally I don’t like workout wear that’s super fussy or has a lot of details, but the strappy back totally converted me (see bottom left in the first picture above); it was as interesting to look at as it was comfortable. Sold!

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Next up was a robin-egg blue sports bra with animal print capris and a bright pink hoodie. I had seen these pants online and was dying to try ’em on in person to see if they lived up to the hype. From the funky snakeskin-type print to the abstract lines, yep — another winner.

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Third was a cute cut-out sports bra and track jacket with some not-so-basic black capris. And, clearly, I have no clue what to do in front of the camera.

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After that, the stylist wanted to switch things up a bit with a pair of harem pants and a hooded vest. The mix of colors and prints was really fun, and I was pleasantly surprised with the pants; I’m not typically a harem pant kinda gal, but these had built-in bike shorts for support, which was brilliant!

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Finally, though, came my favorite outfit of the evening — a neon yellow sports bra and cobalt top with abstract printed tights. As far as I’m concerned, you can never go wrong with a special sports bra, a vivid top and crazy pants.

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In the end, I went with the last outfit and ended up buying some pieces from others — the green top, black sports bra and animal print capris — which I’ll probably piece together as a separate outfit. But, as you can see, it’s easy to get carried away in there!

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Another highlight of the evening was getting to hang out with half of the Team LUNA Chix PDX Run Team (from left: Carolyn, Megan, Tiffany, Kristin, me), who came out to support our teammate Tiffany, who works at Lorna Jane. We may run together, but from the looks of this picture we consider shopping a sport, as well 🙂

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A big thank you to the team at Lorna Jane for setting this up. While I did receive some clothes, all opinions are my own.  I would never promote a brand that I didn’t love. 

StitchFix Shipment No. 4 Review

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Although I only kept two items from my previous StitchFix (read about it here), I’ve been anxiously awaiting the arrival of box number four. Once again I requested Becca, but this time asked her for some edgier pieces to carry me through the holidays and into winter.

New to StitchFix? Read all about how it works here. 

Let’s check out what came in this month’s box, shall we?

First up was the Pixley Robyn Teardrop Branch Necklace ($34). I like the design and the shape, but the color wasn’t as bold or exciting as I had hoped. Sometimes it’s had to tell, though, until you get it on and see how it works with an outfit, so I put it in the ‘maybe’ pile.

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Next was the Andrew Marc Bryn Sheer Top Textured Dress ($148). I love a LBD (little black dress) for the holidays, and totally agree with Becca that this one’s “the definition of elegance” with a sheer paneled top and shimmery bottom. The shape is super flattering, although the waist will need to be tailored a bit (I was pinning it back with my hand in the shot above), plus it’s versatile enough to be worn a few different ways.

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Third was a pair of Just Black Jake Slim Bootcut Jeans ($88). Becca was pretty accurate with sizing, and dark denim transitions well from day to night, making this a nice double-duty item. However, I’m starting to accumulate quite a bit of denim, so this was another one to mull over in the ‘maybe’ pile.

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After that came the Market and Spruce Janet Striped Cross Front Sweater ($74). I wrestled — literally — with this one, putting it on upside-down at first (oops!). But once I untangled everything and got it on properly, it was not only cozy, but also a lot different from anything else I’ve got in my closet. Becca suggested pairing it with some heeled ankle boots and a bright scarf for a casual look, which I thought would be fun for winter.

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And, finally, was the Renee C Rocca Chain Trim Open Cardigan ($68). It’s cute, in theory, and I like how the chain-link trim could add some edginess to my wardrobe, but as soon as I felt the fabric I knew it was headed to the ‘no’ pile. Instead of a nice, rich wool, it’s a stiffer, scratchier polyester-type material, which is probably meant to withstand the weight of the metal. But, sadly, it just wasn’t doing it for me.

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So what did I end up buying? Because I was waffling on pretty much everything, the true test was running it by Hubby for a guy’s opinion. Of course, he agreed with my initial reaction to the chain-link sweater and that I didn’t need (another) pair of jeans. The necklace wasn’t met with much enthusiasm, either. And his word to describe the cross-front sweater? “Frumpy.” So out that went, as well!

In the end, the dress was the only clear winner. With a little nip and tuck from the tailor, it’ll be a great LBD for this year’s holiday parties, and since it’s a classic silhouette, I’ll likely keep it for years to come.

My next fix is scheduled for the end of January, and I requested some dressy casual blouses and tops for work. I also asked that we brighten up the color palette to try to combat the inevitable winter doldrums and start looking forward to some bolder items that can be worn for spring.

Want to try StitchFix? Use my referral link to fill out your style profile and get started.

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. I simply love the service and think it’s fun to share my experience. I pay for Stitch Fix on my own. If you sign up for Stitch Fix using my referral link, I will get a credit…thanks! 

Fave Fix: PrAna Early Winter Collection (& discount code!)

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Whether it’s comfort, performance or style, workout clothing should have a clear purpose.  In my case, obnoxiously-bright gear just so happens to get me motivated to work out, even when it’s cold, wet and otherwise crappy outside (and, as I found out last week, it also gets me called out at the gym as a “Californian,” but I digress…).

You know what’s odd, though? Despite all the tanks, tops, sports bras and capris I’ve amassed over the years, I had yet to try anything from prAna. I’ve got a few friends who swear by the brand, and I know they sponsor the lovely LUNA Chix Pro Team, the most successful, longest-running team in the history of professional MTB and XTERRA racing, but that was the extent of my knowledge of them.

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So I considered it kismet when prAna partnered up with Fit Approach to help get the word out about the new Early Winter Collection. Getting to check out an organization with a mission of being socially mindful, environmentally sustainable and that offers gear that not only withstands the rigors of the outdoors but also the demands of world-class athletes? Well, that’s a no brainer.

As it turns out, the 22-year-old company was started by Beaver Theodosakis and his wife Pam in their garage in Carlsbad, Calif. and continues their commitment to sustainability, community and right action to this day. Their purposeful garments are designed for freedom of movement with hidden technical features — and what started as a cult favorite within the yoga and climbing communities has extended to people who share a love of the outdoors and related lifestyles.

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Knowing that I’d soon be facing a dreary Portland winter, I decided to test out the Drea Jacket ($99) and Prism Capri Legging ($70) for keeping my core warm and spirits high, respectively. As far as I’m concerned, I’ll continue the SF trend of wearing workout gear around town and sport these puppies both in the gym and out and about for errands.

Yes, the Drea is another fleece hoodie; we’ve all got a few rotating in and out of our wardrobe. But what makes this one so special is that its made from a moisture-wicking stretch performance fleece, so you can throw it on after spin class or an hour of yoga without worrying about getting overheated or pitting it out at brunch. Ribbing at the side body and hood give it a more fitted shape, and built-in cuff hand warmers help keep fingers toasty.

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And the capris, well, they’re quickly becoming my go-to when I’m looking to spice up my outfit with bottoms that are durable, flattering and (most importantly) fun. The “stylized stitching” is supposed to add sporty flair, but I found it quite functional — strategic placement under the knee on both front and back conveniently help keep the pants from riding up.

Mindfully designed. Built to last. And best of all? Available at a discount, just in time for holiday shopping! Use KineticFix’s special code (pspf14kf) at checkout for 15% off your entire order.

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Happy shopping…and sweating, friends 🙂

StitchFix Shipment No. 3 Review

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After my stylist nailed my previous StitchFix (read about it here), I couldn’t wait for my third box to arrive. Not only did I re-request Becca, but I also mentioned that I was going to be moving to Portland and would love some new items for fall.

New to StitchFix? Read all about how it works here. 

If the move taught me one thing, though, it’s that I need to streamline my wardrobe; I’ve been holding onto items that should have been cleared out a looong time ago, so for every new item I take in, I’ve decided to donate an existing one. Now, let’s take a look at came in this month’s box!

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First was the Collective Concepts Diane Abstract Dot Print Button Up Blouse ($34). At first glance, I wasn’t sure. The shape and collar are fun, but I don’t usually like short, wide tops that accentuate my hips. The print is fun, though, and I love the contrasting color, so it went into the ‘maybe’ pile.

Next was a pair of Kut from the Kloth Sonja Straight Leg Jean ($78), according to the list — but the style was actually the Catherine Boyfriend Jean, which I actually like better because I can roll the bottoms. Plus, I just ripped a pair of jeans getting into the car (whoops), so these were a total ‘yes!’

Third was the 41Hawthorn Colibri Solid Tab Sleeve Blouse ($48). Great color, slim shape, and I can wear it either loose or tucked in to both pants and skirts, so it’s super versatile. Another ‘yes!’

After that came the Bay to Baubles Lysander Gem Stone Statement Collar ($44). I like the departure from the typical bubble necklaces, and it’s got some good color in it with the white, blue and orange. But at $44, I’d want to make sure I was in love with it. Again, another ‘maybe.’

And, finally, came the Sugarlips Corra Striped Fit & Flare Skirt ($68). Yikes. All flare and not much fit there, huh? I like where Becca was going with this (and she said she pulled the look based on my Pinterest page), but it was just way too long and poufy in the waist. A definite ‘no.’

So what did I end up buying? The jeans and the pink blouse made the grade; I sent the blue top back because it was just too short and wide, and same for the skirt because, well, it made me look too short and wide. And the necklace…as much as I like it, the quality didn’t feel like $44, so it went back, as well.

My next fix is scheduled for mid-November, and I requested some fun pieces for winter and the holidays. I even mentioned that we could go a little bolder in my notes to the stylist, so I’m excited to see what she chooses.

Want to try StitchFix? Use my referral link to fill out your style profile and get started.

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. I simply love the service and think it’s fun to share my experience. I pay for Stitch Fix on my own. If you sign up for Stitch Fix using my referral link, I will get a credit…woohoo! 

Fave Fix: Tieks ballet flats, take two

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Work hard, train hard, wear flats.

That might as well be the active gal’s mantra — well, at least here in San Francisco.

Why? We walk. Everywhere. And then there are the hills.

So it probably shouldn’t come as a surprise to me that Tieks has been one of the most consistently-searched terms on the site since I did my first post about ’em last fall.

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No, the company didn’t send me a free pair to review. I bought ’em myself after reading some glowing recommendations elsewhere in the blogsophere.

Ok, and maybe Hubby had hit his limit of me attempting to configure date-night outfits around sneakers, too. 

But, regardless, they’ve become my favorite “dressy” footwear…so much so that I requested a second pair for a recent birthday.

Because I won’t bat an eye at crazy endurance events, but ask me to wear heels, and it’s GAME OVER.

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KineticFix is on summer vacation, so I’m revisiting some of the most popular posts in the meantime! 

StitchFix Shipment No. 2 Review

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If you still haven’t heard of StitchFix, you gotta check it out (and, no — they don’t pay me to say that; I’m just a fan).

It’s a personal styling service for women where you fill out a profile and receive a handpicked “Fix” of five clothing items and accessories unique to your taste, budget and lifestyle. Buy what you like, return the rest. It’s as simple as that.

After my first Fix, I was intrigued. And after my second? I’m officially hooked.

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Knowing that it takes a cycle or two to get to know specific style and sizing preferences, I wasn’t shocked when I kept only one of the five items the first time around.

But after providing detailed feedback on what fit, what didn’t, what I liked, and what I didn’t, my StitchFix stylist absolutely nailed it this latest package.

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First was the Gilli Gabbiey Sleeveless Maxi Dress in Teal Green ($74). Love the color, the style, the fit and how comfy it feels. A keeper, and this will be so great for summer travel!

Next was a pair of Margaret M Duboce Straight Leg Jeans in White ($108). White jeans are tough enough, let alone when you’re pairing a straight leg style on an athletic body. But I’m glad I went against my initial reaction of, “No. Way.” and tried these on. Success!

Third was the Alternative Apparel Welch Tie Dye Print Button-Up Tank in Light Grey ($74). Another style that I might not have chosen for myself off the rack, but the fit was great and Hubby loved it, so my decision was made.

After that came the Pomelo Alan French Terry Asymmetrical Zip Cardigan in Coral ($74). The shape is very unusual — the zipper zips on the side, and the neck drapes into a cowl — so I think it’ll make a fun layering piece for travel.

And, finally, came the Pomelo Moni Stud Detail Tile Print Top in Black ($58). This was the only one I was wavering on, but the fit and details worked well — plus if you keep all five items you get an extra 25 percent off the entire order — so it was a no-brainer.

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Add said and done, I purchased the entire shipment, and I’m thrilled with how Becca (my stylist) did. In fact, I even requested her again for the next shipment, which I’ve scheduled for September.

Next time around, I requested some fresh items for fall. And I’ll be updating my personal Pinterest page, which she said she used as inspiration. Can’t wait for the next one!

Want to try StitchFix? Use my referral link to fill out your style profile and get started.

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. I simply love the service and think it’s fun to share my experience. I pay for Stitch Fix on my own. If you sign up for Stitch Fix using my referral link, I will get a credit…thanks!