J Crew Caprese Tunic

Yes, totally late to the party on this one, sure.  J Crew Caprese Tunic (#26796, orig $35, curr $14.99).  Would have been nice if I'd been blogging on this one over the summer, eh?

There is some background to this purchase...or at least what I was looking for here.  I used to have, several years ago, a fantastic pale pink linen long-sleeve pop over tunic top from H&M.  It wasn't super long, just enough to cover the bum, and long enough so that shape of it was a flattering vertical rectangle instead of the super-unflattering-on-me horizontal rectangle.  I loved this top, lived in it during the spring and summer.  I loved the popver idea, that it didn't have the button placket running up the front.  Alas, after a few seasons, it was showing wear because hey, it was from H&M, and you don't go purchasing a piece you expect to last for 10 years there.  But I've been searching for a replacement for it ever since.  When J Crew had their chambray popovers, I was one of the first in line to grab one and try it on.  Sadly, it was just too boxy - too wide and not long enough. 

And then I started seeing pics of the Caprese Tunic.  First thing I noticed was the length - so I thought, hey, I wonder if I could make that work.  The second thing I noticed was the self-belt, so I thought, hey, I can chuck that really fast (since my plan was to wear it as a loose but straight tunic, not something belted and puffy).  Of course, this was over the summer, it's not so easy to get to the B&M to try on, and so it took me a few weeks before I got there to try it. 

The first thing I did was grab a S, since it looked a bit wide and I had no intention of wearing it belted.  And then I realized that the S was huge on me....so next I opted for an XS.  Yes, folks, an XS....  Ok sure, it's sleeveless and I don't have to worry about the shoulders, but still...5'10" and size 8 in pants here...the XS was exactly perfect for how I wanted to wear it.  (No wonder there are only M's & L's left online.)  Bottom line - this sucker runs HUGE. 

So thanks, Jenna & company, I'm sure this isn't how you thought of it, but it worked out exactly how I wanted it to.

Now that I have semi-replaced my lovely pink linen popover...the next question is how to wear it.  Well, since it was summer when I got it "with white jeans" was the easy obvious answer.  See first pic above - with my Kut from the Kloth white slim jeans from Nordstroms - one of my best buys over the summer - indispensable. 

That is one of those outfits (chambray top + white jeans) that works with pretty much any set of accessories you want to throw at it - metallic, bright, pastel, neutral, you name it.  That day (I think the kiddies & I met Dina & her kiddies to lunch & shop  a bit), I chose heeled sandals and a chunky bracelet.

Next outfit (middle pic), I went with black Minnies (Tall, size 8), and a gray cami.  For chillier weather, I could have easily added a cardi.  I'm pretty sure it was hot that day, so in the chambray top and black ankle pants, I felt cool and seasonally appropriate.  I was headed into school for a meeting and wanted to look nice, but be comfy (then again, that's my usual dressing mantra, right?)

And then let's get to today's outfit, shall we?  It's pretty yucky outside.  We've got the remanants of TS Nicole blowing through.  We've already gotten 3 inches of rain or so, with more to come. 

But am I complaining?  No, and here's why:

1 - it's not too chilly, so the rain doesn't feel to cold (don't you hate those days that are 38 degrees and rainy?  ugh!!!)

2 - With all the rain coming down, the stinkbugs aren't flying.   Are you getting hit with those, too????  They were divebombing us at soccer games this past weekend.

3 - I don't have to commute 99% of the time, so I'll just shut up now.
4 - I have cute pink rain boots for the grocery store runs.

Back to today's outfit.  I guess the rain gave me the blues, though, because um yeah, that's pretty much all I'm wearing.  Darker slim Chico's jeans, a navy cami, and a navy Jackie on top.  I think I actually might like this a bit better if the jeans were a touch darker, but still I liked how it worked...even though I have since abandoned the flats for a pair of cozy socks. 

And I think it shows the flexibility of this top - perfect for some of these fall days where it starts out chilly and then gets warm.  I doubt I'll still have it out in December, but I think it will be in regular rotation for the next couple of months, and then tucked away until spring.
Now my question is - if you have the Caprese, how are you wearing it?  I'd love to hear....
Polyvore from today:

9/30/10 by HeidiGblog featuring yellow gold earrings

J Crew Spring Arrivals - Sweaters and Lots of 'Em

Well, dresses will have to wait for another post...this sucker is long. You all know how much I loooooove sweaters, so not surprisingly, that's where I gravitated when I headed into the J Crew to check out the new release. (like I said, dresses in another post, since they're my other fave.)

Sweater #1 - This one is actually from the previous release in January, but I hadn't posted it yet. Boyfriend Beach Cardigan (#24597, $118) in heather dusk. Nope, didn't do it for me. I have on size M here.

I really had high hopes for this one. I am still looking for this year's library shawl cardigan...something long and cozy and that I'll love as much. This isn't it. I know I love a slouchy silhouette, but this just felt all kinds of boxy on me. And this was the better picture - the other one, for some reason, gave my tummy rolls that I don't really have - and that shouldn't be showing in such a thick sweater.

It's a thick cotton knit, very cozy. I think it's just totally the wrong cut for me. If you are curvier and/or shorter, I think this sweater will be fantastic on you. Boobs definitely would have helped this one out.

The length was just not good because it was too short to be long and just long enough to not be short. Does that make sense? It does to me. If it doesn't to you, have another cup of tea (or glass of wine).I would also like to note that I swear it looks longer in the online pic than it does on me, and I know their models are taller than 5'10".

But to solve my library shawl cardi woes, I did order the Long Beach Cardigan - the navy isn't backordered like the light pewter, so hopefully I'll see that this week, and will post when I do.

Sweater #2 - Merino-Linen Camp Cardigan (#21831, $98), in fawn. Right, because when you think of the one fabric, you automatically think of the other. Ok, that just sounded snotty. Sorry. I didn't really love or even like all that much this sweater. I did like the fawn color. This is a sweater that would be a bit difficult to wear closed unless you are really sucked in underneath or you are wearing it large. The thinness of the knit shows every flaw - I found that it clinged on me instead of flowing. Like how I added the watermark to camouflage the tummy ripples? This would probably work best over a structured underlayer like an actual shirt instead of tank or tee. I love how they styled it online with the dark tank underneath.

I do like the sleeves - the button you see on the sleeve enables you to roll up the sleeves to just above the elbow and fasten. So it works well rolled up...but the button is just kinda hanging out there when the sleeves are at full length.

Here's the thing...I was trying these tops on with a cami and my Chicos slim jeans...the most basic of canvases for these sweaters. And if it doesn't look good with that as the backdrop, chances are that it's not going to work well with much else. Pass for me...especially at full price.

Here's another shot with the sleeve rolled up. See...better, but still not great. And if it's not something required (e.g., uniform, bridesmaid dress - well, I guess that *is* a uniform), why wear something you don't feel great in?

And like the boyfriend beach cardigan above, I don't necessarily want to pay full price for a cardi that only works open...esp when that full price is awfully close to $100.

Back to the fabric blend itself - anyone have any thoughts on the wool/linen pairing? I found it a little odd. Different strokes for different folks and all that...

Sweater #3 - Scalloped Zipper Cardigan (#23423, $98) in heather stone. See it also on dinagideon here, who has the figure to wear it, and on Pamela, who also looks great (and has a great close up of the ruffle/zipper detail..

I like this cardi...I really do. Zippers, ruffles, cardigan...what's not to love? Other than the length. Oh, I had high hopes for this one, too...but as soon as I saw it IRL, I had an inkling that it wouldn't work. Why? Length again. Let's be honest, I would probably be most likely to wear this with a tee/tank and jeans or Minnies...since that's my usual everyday uniform.

I have a size M here, and the fit is fantastic, except that, darnitall, I want an extra inch or two at the bottom. It's not even as cropped as the dream cabin cardigan from last season, but it's still just short enough that it doesn't feel long enough. I just wasn't feeling it...at least not at full price.

This would be a fantastic sweater with a dress underneath, esp an LBD. But I don't wear enough of those to justify. So it's a pass for me...maybe I would consider on sale, but given how cute this is on dina and the SAs I've seen wearing it, I doubt it will get there. And as I've said before and will continue to say...wouldn't it be boring if we all were wearing the exact same things from J Crew???

Sweater #4 - This appears to be retail only, at least for now. Per my receipt, its the "Cashfeel Kyla Long Yoga Cardi". (#25135, $88).

Again, I must refer you to Dina's post that I linked to above, where she referred to this as the "UGLY SWING STYLE MERINO CARDIGAN IN A PRETTY COLOR". Clearly she only feels lukewarm about it.

But before we get to fit, how gorgeous are these colors? BLI (bright lilac?), plus honey - in Dina's post (and there were several neutrals as well). Yum. If we see more of this as the spring line continues to roll out, I will be a happy woman. Unlike the warm, fleshy pinky corals, these colors I love. And wear.

However, when you are shaped like a brick, or have wide shoulders with not much chest - sorta like a big, wide clothes hanger, like me you can pull this off. Dina thought it made her shoulders look small. So I said, sweet, I am all over that!! Smaller shoulders? Sign me up.

Yes, it's swingy, but if you have the shoulders for it, you can do it. You just need to make sure your underlayers are fitted to balance out the shape of the sweater.

I bought this sweater, but then I returned it. So why didn't I keep the sweater? Much as I love the shape, I just wasn't sure I wanted to spend FP on a yoga sweater. And over the weekend, I ordered the long beach cardigan, so I wasn't sure I really needed it at this point. I can definitely see this going on sale later, so maybe I'll pick up one then.

I would like to draw your attention to the tank I am wearing underneath - the Tissue Tier Tank (#23338, $39.50). This is a fantastic underlayer...as long as you keep your sweater/jacket closed. Can you see how appallingly sheer the not tiered part is? I wish it had come in darker colors. This is an M, by the way.

Now...don't laugh too hard...this is the sweater I bought and actually kept.

Sweater #5 - Jackie Cardigan (#85613, $62), in pearl. First of all, the picture does not do this cardi justice. Or the online pic. The color is neutral, yes, but gorgeous - pale khaki, like the color of a chocolate-vanilla milkshake. You know, made with vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce, instead of using chocolate ice cream. Yum! Add a shot or two of Godiva white chocolate liquor and now we're really talking...

Um, back to the sweater. I pounced on this as soon as I saw it in the store. For me, the Jackie is the perfect summer cardigan. And I love that it's light, but it's not quite white - so it won't show dirt quite as easily. M & E are growing up but, hello, they are still kids. And well, I'm still one of the clutziest people on earth.

And I love, I mean really love, this color cardi with a white tee underneath - so crisp. You will definitely see me in this cardi with a white tee & white jeans this spring.

And I did get 2 perfect fit tanks, since they're on special in store for $14. Always a good time to stock up. Basic, boring, but necessary.

Next post....dresses from the spring rollout. But it's time to head to the bus stop.

ps - if you've tried these items on, please let me know and I'll add the link - but I hadn't quite caught up on blog reading before posting.

Another Cardi Party?

Must be the season...so today, I inspired myself. (nice going self). Ok, actually I just completely copied a look from almost 3 weeks ago - 10/6/09. As I wrote on my Polyvore, "Wishing I could get an IRL pic but camera is in trunk of hubby's car. Sure I'll be wearing this again, though... So comfy and way cute (IMO)." I literally wore the exact same outfit today. And enjoyed it just as much.

Michele cardi in Beechwood from last year (M), the ubiquitous white tissue bf vneck tee (M) - which is about to get some competition because I just ordered my 2nd open crewneck painter tee in white, and Minnies in coal (8). Plus twisted crystal necklace, its mate from BR that has dangling crystals every inch, Dina hoops, and the crystal shapes bracelet. Speaking of which, did you enter my giveaway for that bracelet? (Not the one I'm wearing, of course, duh.) Deadline is end of the day tomorrow! I love the neutral combo of coal and beechwood with the white tee to crisp it up. When it gets colder, out come the boots, a long sleeve white tee, and maybe a scarf. And Rosa & Gingersnap - just pretend I'm wearing JC toothpicks, ok?

Polyvore from 10/6/09 - and today (seriously, it's exactly the same - I think I need to switch up accessories next time):


10/6/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew

Saturday...skip - hubby out of town, not enough sleep, soccer games, Target, rain, etc = Jaspe sweatshirt + jeans + pink rain boots. Not a cardi and definitely not photo-worthy.

Moving right along backwards...Friday - oops, disqualified, not a cardi...save for another post.

Thursday - Nice day - just beautiful. Jackie in spring daisy (M), white ON tank (L, and too big as it keeps stretching out - but their M's are too tight at the hem, need to find another white tank source), and Chicos boyfriend jeans. What else? Confetti necklace, FA07 dog charm bracelet, and cuff link earrings. Done.

Polyvore from Thursday:


10/22/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew

Wednesday - bad pics, but great outfit. Need a re-do - which I'm sure will happen as you know I repeat my outfits...often.

Tuesday - Home with sick M and infected Lucy. But at least I tried...This outfit did not photograph that well, but I really loved it in person. Maybe better accessories next time, like my red patent peep toe flats? Tissue stripe flora tee with my charcoal BR Michele-cardi-copy and Chicos slim leg jeans. I really liked the navy-charcoal combo - it might have worked better in the IRL pic with better lighting. Or chunkier necklace action. And I will once again sing the praises for the striped tee - so comfy, so cute, total winner for me. (unless you have a really short torso, and then I'm sorry)

Polyvore from Tuesday:


10/20/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew

Cardi party rocking on... (and don't forget to enter my giveaway)

Join the Cardi Party - Including J Crew Merino Ocelot Cardi

I loved GingerSnap's post yesterday about having a Cardi Party. I feel like I go for long stretches in a Cardi Party. And this is a fab way to catch up on some outfit posting, too... And I get to show off, once again, that I finally downloaded Picasa to my desktop so I can do collages. You'd think I'd get more creative, but I'm pretty pleased with myself thus far.

So yesterday, day before that, day before that, and 2 other random September outfits that I actually photographed.

Moving from left to right (thought I added text to the pic but apparently I'm not as good at Picasa as I thought I was...):

First up from waaaaay back on September 10, classic J Crew - misty lavender Jackie, white vneck tissue boyfriend tee, and khaki cafe capris. Twisted crystal necklace and Target sandals that are way comfy. Very basic J Crew. Next?

September 17 - finally wore IRL the merino Ocelot since it was cool enough. I had been waiting ever since our Tysons JCA event to wear it. Like Patina, I really just love this cardi with jeans...plus the usual bf tissue tee for me, natch. The cardigan (#19006, orig $88) is sold out - no surprise there - it's gorgeous. Maybe it will pop back one of these days. Gigi actually reviewed it in this post earlier in the month, and she & quite a few others preferred the Target version. Me? I really love the colors in this cardi - so pretty. I find the fit to be pretty much like the Jackies - which does make sense since it's pretty much the same cut as the Jackies (although we all know how wacky their fits can be...).

September 27 - outfit for church - cotton-cashmere bouquet cardi plus...once again, white bf tissue tee and jeans. Ooooh, think I need some new under-tops. Anyway, I heard mixed reviews on washing this cardi - but will vouch for the fact that it irons like a dream since, um, mine was at the bottom of a pile of cardis and was all wrinkly. Wore my new cutie cap toe ballet flats, too - loving these shoes!

September 28 - Kids off school for Yom Kippur, which we don't celebrate, so...fun chill day at home, some errands, lunch with dad. Actually the chilling out at home was huge - M & E have been fighting off colds just like me, so we needed an extra day of rest. And I actually didn't wear a bf tee that day. Love the linen cardigan - great layering piece and great on its own. It's still available online on sale for $29.99, if you are interested. Plus Minnie pants, confetti necklace and cap toe ballet flats again.

And that brings us to yesterday, September 29 - Hello my dear old friend. 1st wearing of the season for the Library Shawl Cardigan. I love this cardi today as much as I did the day I bought it. Like that lovely striped sweater I had in my last post, it was worth every penny of full price - and that's how you know you made the right purchase. (ps - if *everything* feels like it's worth full price, you may need to put down the Crew-lade...just sayin'....) This cardi just feels like a hug every time I wear it - and yesterday was so blustery, it was perfect. Jeans and a tee...again...I know.

When you look across the board at how many times I'm wearing a ponytail (even in not-hot weather), you will understand why I actually got 2 inches chopped off my hair yesterday. Oh, it felt so good! Pics later today or tomorrow.

So now we are pretty much caught up through yesterday. And here's the Polyvore-o-rama to go with the outfits above:

September 10:

9/10/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew


September 17:

9/17/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew


September 27:

9/27/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew


September 28:

9/28/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew


September 29:

9/29/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew


And the Cardi Party rocks on...

JCA Brunch at Le Chat Noir

The lovely Rosa organized a fab brunch for us at Le Chat Noir in DC last weekend. I'm sure many/most/all of you have read the wonderful recaps by 3-Penny Princess and Slastena.

Like Slastena, I'm not even going to try to compete with 3-PP's writing skills. But it was lovely. Perfect spot for a JCA brunch. Yummy mimosas. Yummy crepes. Love lunching with the ladies because they split dessert...

Since I had to scoot home right after brunch for my parents visiting and soccer games, I stopped by the Friendship Heights J Crew before brunch. Tried on a few things, but didn't actually get anything that day as time was getting short to get over to brunch. (yay me, for once) I did, however, fall positively in love with a new sweater and went back later that week to get it. More on that in another post.

I wore the dark slate Frances cami with white jeans and my spring daisy Jackie cardi. I love this cardi - the color literally goes with everything. Finished off with Danielle sandals and the twisted crystal necklace - which I wore as a bracelet, wrapped 5 times around my wrist. Perfect fit - I'll have to remember that trick, since I hardly wear it during winter because of the sweater-snagging issue.

Group photo because yes, I actually remembered the camera again:

Pictured above left to right:

Me

3-Penny Princess - my fellow Frances friend

Drewablank - totally rocking the dressy jersey ruffle-neck dress

Slastena - even more radiant than usual with her lovely pregnancy glow

Rosa - fab organizer and total smarty, too

CleoP - looking like a movie star - love that dress!

K - I just wish this was a full-length shot because she had to most insanely fab shoes on

Polyvore from Brunch:

9/19/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew

Thanks again to Rosa for organizing!!

More Cardis...Matchy, Matchy...

Let me tell you a funny story. Once upon a time there was a nice girl who liked clothes very much. She married a wonderful man and then had an adorable baby boy...and then she got pregnant with a baby girl and that wonderful husband laid down the law: "No matching outfits." I think it may have been said even before the actual labor & delivery.

This is much funnier when you're not the mom. And clearly that was me, and I have pretty much paid heed. Hubby doesn't ask for much in terms of attire from us. But then....what happens when you get 2 fabbie hand-me-down Lilly Pulitzer cardis from your sister-in-law for your darling little girl and they happen to be the exact shade of 2 cardis that you happen to have in your closet? You got it - matchy matchy time.

First up, the muted aqua faux-Jackie from ATL. I love these cardis just as much as my JC Jackie. Fit is a little different, but different is good, right? I wore this aqua-ish one on Monday since E was wearing her mini-me version for the 1st day of school. That's right - the 1st day of school - you would have thought I would have been blogging more, huh? Yeah, me too. (Work deadline, what can I say?)

E loved that she and I had on the same cardi - just as she loved it when I got similar Target shoes to hers...of course I'm not wearing them since I'm still trying to heal my heel. (Flip flops through the weekend and them I'm done, my feet are tired!)

I wore the cardi with a white tissue bf tee, outlet matchstick jeans, and an ATL scarf that matches the cardi. My daughter loved it, so it was a good outfit. 1st day of school went well for everyone, except that M is bitter that he has had homework all week and E hasn't. I adopted the twin message of "Life isn't fair, deal with it" and "Wait until next week, she'll have homework every night, too."

Such a good mom I am. At least neither one has asked for purple hair...yet. (Kathy - I especially loved the dual perspective on your post, it was hilarious. I have been on 1 side and anticipate being on the other side very shortly.)

Polyvore from Monday

Wearing Today-8/31/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew

The weather has been gorgeous this week, did I mention that? Not too hot, not too chilly. So I've been loving the chance to wear sweaters this week and not swelter in the heat. Wednesday was not exactly matchy matchy, as I was sporting the cardi color that E wore the day before. Give us time though... So glad I got the spring daisy Jackie - I just love this color. I'm quite sure it will look ghastly on me mid-winter (I mean literally, it will totally wash me out and make me look like a corpse or zombie), but it's fantastic for now and fall, when I still have a little wore-SPF-but-got-some-color-anyway. Plus it's perfect with my Cocteau tote.

Under the cardi, I wore a tissue bf tee - but a *crew* neck one. I really should grab 1 or 2 of these next time I order online. Love them as much as the vneck, and it's nice to have another option...especially when the weather gets chillier. This one is dark slate or charcoal or whatever.

And then white jeans. Patina had a fun post yesterday about wearing white outside of Labor Day, and I say wear it as much as you want. I love white jeans with thick, cozy sweaters - I think they chic up some sweaters and give you a different look. White outside of summer is all about fabric weight. Linen = no. Thicker denim, wool = yes. Simple.

Totally neglected the accessories on this one. Ah well, what can you do? I think this was day 1 of flip flop wear, so I was focused on the feet and the gaping wound on my heel.

Polyvore from Wednesday:

Wearing Yesterday-9/2/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew

The Nail Files - August Update # 2, and Outfit of the Day tossed in, too

With my last Nail Files post I mentioned that I had my fab friend Sherry on a Dior polish mission at Nordstrom. And she delivered. And oh yeah, I think I am in love with this polish. Behold, Dior Lemon Balm #703. It is available exclusively at Nordstrom and it is quite possibly the most perfect color (for me) I have ever seen. I love that it's darker and moodier, but not almost-black. It's a shimmery, plum-y, taupe-y confection and um, I actually can't stop staring at my toes. (Fab friend Sherry borrowed it on the way to her pedi tonight, and it's totally fab on her, too.) Here's my picture of it:


Trust me, it's way more gorgeous in person. If you want to see fantastic swatches, check out alllacqueredup.com - she is a polish genius, and also a polish-photographing whiz. And her blog is my go-to, 1st stop source on all matters nail-related.

Can't wait to toss it on my fingers as well (currently sporting OPI At First Sight), but I'm not quite mentally ready for dark fingers yet. Give me another week, hehehe. Of course, I still have to IRL test OPI Here Today Aragon Tomorrow and Essie Chinchilly. But that likely won't happen until this peels off my toes.

And here's my you've-already-seen-it outfit for the day. Black knit dress from ATL, black sandals, simple stud earrings. But I added the new Cocteau tote and the spring daisy Jackie to freshen it up and loved them with it....but I just didn't get them in the picture. One of these days I'll actually take pics with bags and cardis and all that to show you that it does get more interesting...just not today.

It was 97 degrees here today, with a heat index above 100, so it was perfect for an easy knit sundress. We picked up Lucy at the kennel this morning and she always sheds upon coming home, so a black outfit was the right choice. And E had her 7-year check up today (she grew 4 inches this year!), so a cardi was a must as well.

I have to say that I am really loving this spring daisy shade. I feel like it makes everything look a little fresher and more interesting since it's an unusual shade of yellow. I will probably look like death in it in the middle of winter...but I'll be wearing way heavier sweaters then, so no worries! And I am also love love loving the Cocteau tote. I highly recommend. The laminated canvas is just plain fun. (anyone seen a good pic for Polyvore, by the way?)

Polyvore for today:



Wearing Today-8/10/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew

In other news, if you are in the DC area and haven't actually checked out 3-Penny Princess' posts on the next DC JCA Private Shopping Event at Tysons on Sunday, 8/23, and Diana P's Fab Jewelry Trunk Show 8/22 & 23, get thee to her blog to check it out. Would love to see everyone there!!

Why I Love the Loft

You know I love J Crew and Target, but we all need to mix it up occasionally. And, um, ok, I’ve said before that I have had some issues with Ann Taylor Loft. I used to get a good portion of my summer wardrobe there because I had an Ann Taylor Visa (relic from the 90’s, I believe) and I got reward certificates. Loved that. I used to get so many dresses there – it was one of my fave places for dresses, esp cute summer knit dresses. Then they discontinued the Visa card because they had their new relationship with Mastercard and I was bitter. I’ll admit it. And when asked if I want to get the new card? Um no, thanks. Will wallow in my bitterness for now.

But I was lured back in by the promise of Jackie-esque cardigans and I got one with a 30% off on a sale and it was $17. And I liked it. And then in my quest for a summer knit skirt, since the JC Esplanade just did not work on me, I noticed they had some cute knit ones. So I went yesterday (you know, kiddies' last day of school) and fell back in love…and got 2 of the skirts, 1 dress, and a not-exactly-Jackie cardi in white. I think the Loft items mix really well with J Crew.

So here are my scores. I will post IRL pics when I have them.

Tiered Knit Skirt (curr on sale for $24.50) I got this in deep blue and saddle brown. I also saw it in white, green, and black in store. This is so comfy! And while tiered, it’s not so full that you can’t wear it with a slouchy tee (yes, J Crew tissue bf tee, of course). It’s great with a tank, too. This is not a super short skirt. I wear the waistband right on my waist (since I never tuck in, you know) and it hits me right above the knee. If you wear the waistband lower, you can easily cover the knees. I also tried on the white, and while I didn’t get it, I can vouch that it is not very sheer – it’s a great white summer casual skirt if your are looking. I took an M. You could size up a bit and wear it lower. But I anticipate wearing this all the time this summer. It is also a nice knit – substantial without being too heavy, perfect for a summer skirt.

3/4 sleeve Crewneck Cardigan (curr on sale for $24.50). I had one in dusty teal, I think. I just got one in white. It is similar to the J Crew Jackie, but it’s a bit longer. I got this in an L to allow for shrinkage, because I have had them shrink on me, and it didn’t gap at the buttons while closed like the M did. But I have the shoulders to do it, so size as you please. I think a lot of the JCA’s have partaken of these. And the pic I’m posting is of the shocking pink because the online pic of white and teal is, quite frankly, pretty cruddy. AT Loft definitely is not the best at styling their clothes (as has been discussed in the blogosphere before), but that means that you have a decent shot of the clothes looking as good on you and sometimes better.

Sleeveless Dress with Front Twist (curr on sale for $29.50)
I got this one in black. It's a thin knit, but the black makes it work. It would be too flimsy in a light color. I love the silhouette on this one. (sorry, link is not great but that was the best I could do) If I recall, my store had this in black and brown, not sure what else. And a regular bra fits just fine underneath this. (say it with me... yay!!)

Sparrowsandsparkles has been posting some way cute Loft finds lately, too, so check her blog out if you haven’t before.

And….I actually started a Polyvore group, “I Love the Loft”. Original name, I know. Anyway, feel free to hop on the Loft love train. It’s a fun ride!

Here is my opening Polyvore. I actually own all of the items in the top 2 rows, so that’s a good start. (ok, 4 of them were purchases yesterday)

Why I Love the Loft by HeidiGblog on Polyvore.com

White Rosette Tee - Live and in Polyvore.

First of all, I would like to thank J'Adore These Stores since I won the Monday giveaway of Gap's new scent, Close. Needless to say, I am very excited!! I don't like most perfumes - especially really heavy ones, so a "salty floral citrus" sounds perfect for me!! Thank you, JTS!!

On to today...Finally wore the J Crew Rosette Tee in white. So here is my first Polyvore with the rosette tee:

Wearing Today-5/14/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew Clothing

And here is the IRL pic. It's ok as an outfit. (and no idea what's going on at the waistband on my right side - maybe the cardi was stuck to the tee?) I would have liked, hmmm, let's see...darker khakis, or rolled/cuffed khakis, or dark jeans, or white jeans. Somehow the long light khakis just felt a little too bland to me with the light Jackie. Maybe the jewelry didn't have enough oomph.

In any case, I wasn't feeling it so much today. And didn't have much time to correct it as the dentist's office called and I totally spaced on my 10 am appointment today so I had to run out and couldn't worry about it any longer.

Loved the white rosette tee though. I already laundered it and it came out just fine (turned inside out on delicate cycle).

What would you have done to doctor this outfit? Or would you just put it out of its misery? Please share...

I did hit J Crew today (1st time since the Mickey card expired), so I'll be posting on that soon. Have to do my award post (thank you, GingerSnap, for the Queen of ALLL Things Awe-Summm Award...I'll get to it, I promise!). Catch you all later in the blogosphere!

The Joys of Polyvore and Blatant Plagiarism

Don't you love it when you are crusing around Polyvore and see an outfit and go, "Hey, I have all those pieces, or at least pretty darn good copies. I like those colors. Sweet, that's what I'm wearing tomorrow." Well, ok, I waited 2 days to wear it. But thank you to My4Boys on Polyvore for the great inspiration.

I loved the green jackie with the light aqua top (for me, my bf tissue tee in breeze, natch) - great color combo! Like the spring grass & sky. And dark jeans were perfect for today since I had a friend coming over for lunch and a puppy playdate. Fireball necklace, gold Dina hoops, sandals, and ponytail...I am ready to go.

Lunch was very good. I made black beans (sauteed onion & garlic, add drained black beans, salt, pepper, cumin; simmer 45 minutes) on tortillas with baby spinach, chopped tomato, cheddar cheese, and taco sauce. And strawberries on the side. So yummy - and I felt healthy all afternoon! (and now I have leftover beans to make myself lunch for the rest of the week, yay!)

Polyvore set for today: The inclusion of the clematis was quite prophetic on my part when I made the set this morning as Lucy and Skittles basically trashed the lower half of my plant. But I should have tied up that part anway, so my bad.

Wearing Today - 5/13/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew t shirts

For those of you not familiar with Polyvore, see Sea Glasses' post about Polyvore. It's very funny and also very true. I was intimidated by it before I tried it, and now I'm addicted. Lots of fun. And very helpful. I love how Dinagideon Polyvored her trip to Florida - so clever! By the way I am assuming everyone actually does already Polyvore and I am, as usual, the last one there. If you don't PV yet and have any questions, let me know. I peppered Slastena with many, many questions about PV on the ride down to Pentagon City before I even attempted it.

Speaking of fun and addictive, check out Drewablank's post on her new favorite website. I would have posted much sooner today but I spent way too much time on the awkward family photo website, cracking up. Glad I am a stay&work at home mom. Off to giggle some more...

J Crew Jackie Cardigan - Misty Lavender

My Jackie cardi (#85613, $59.50) finally arrived this week, yay! Took long enough because, of course, I am adding in the week from when I purchased the wrong size and it took me that long to get back to the store to return the L and order the M via red phone. And, by the way, since they didn't have the right size in store, I asked if I could order from the store and use my 25% card - the key here is that the SA said she would check, so when she placed the call via red phone, she requested that they honor the 25% card since the store was out of stock.

I feel like spring has really truly arrived! (until the cold & rain we are expecting on Tuesday) So it was perfect day to pull out the Jackie cardi and the Seaside pants. By the way, I did go ahead and tack up the side seams of the Seaside pants so that they stay rolled. 32" inseam is definitely too short for me, but I love how they work cuffed up. I will again profess my love for these pants - very comfy, very cute, so great for spring and so perfect for summer, too.

So notice that I actually tucked in my tank and - gasp - am wearing a belt. Ok, it was the belt the pants came with, but give me a little credit here, folks. I do like the look of these pants with a tucked in top...doesn't mean I'll be doing that all the time, though - you know me...

I added the twisted crystal since the cardi was open and I pulled out the old J Crew olive green Converse-type sneaks. I actually really liked the olive sneaks with the lavender.

Back to the Jackie - love love love. This color is fantastic - a perfect shade - love the misty lavender. I am planning to enjoy this cardi a lot.

Here's my Polyvore for today:

Wearing Today - 04/17/09 by HeidiGblog featuring J Crew sweaters

Final Look at Lenten Shopping Ban, and a Look at the J Crew Short Sleeve Broadcloth Stretch Shirt

Well, as I said before, I just didn't do as well as I'd hoped to on my Lenten shopping ban. I was so good for so long. I think I could easily do a month again, but after that, it gets hard. I started down the slippery slope with the DC JCA outing. It was fab, but I did make a few decisions there that, at the time, in my gut, I knew were the wrong ones. I also should have actually made more of a list of what I was looking for, because that got me when I did returns/exchanges.

I went to JC last Friday - on Good Friday, no less - as I told you all. I did get the Cotton Cashmere Bouquet Cardigan (#12728, orig $78, curr $59.50 online, in store $49.99 + Mickey's 25% card) - which I am definitely keeping. Look for it here probably tomorrow. I got putty and I do love it. I have been loving my Library Shawl Cardi, and this is similar (knit & color), just more dressed up. (Back to Friday's Putty Question - what other colors do you like with putty, besides my usual white & navy?)

I returned the too-large Jackie cardi in misty lavender and they were out of M at the store. (See A Bigger Closet's post today - she is wearing this cardi with the shell and looks gorgeous!) And that sent me on a lavender hunt because I wanted that color. So then I ended up with the Short Sleeve Broadcloth Stretch shirt (#13326, $59.50), in sweet lavender, in a size 8, which is a size smaller than I usually take in shirts/jackets because of my broad shoulders. From the front it was ok. Then I went to take pics at home, and as you can see from the back, it's just not working. Those wrinkles are from me walking across the room from the camera after I hit the timer. Dina got it in the blue stripe at our DC JCA outing and is planning to wear as a little jacket. It looked fantastic on her I would like to wear it open or closed. And it's almost $60. Ok...$45 with the Mickey card. But considering how much I *HATE* to iron and given my usual style, I'm thinking this should really go back - and not just to exchange for a size 10.

In the end, I was able to order via red phone, with my 25% off, thank you very much since it was not in store, the Jackie cardi in M, so that should be on its way here shortly. I was just semi-flustered as I had the kiddies with me Friday, and I don't think I was making the best choice for me. What do you think about the lavender shirt? Especially since I was able to order the Jackie in my correct size and it shipped...

Of course, I wasn't done after the J Crew outing with the kids. As I posted about also on Friday, I had to go to Target to do Easter baskets and got sandals and a necklace, for a total of about $45 more, which is a bargain, but still...

And Sunday, I ordered from J Crew again. History - When I first started checking out the JCA blogs, I found Gigi's fabulous blog. And was so sad because she was on semi-hiatus when I found her. Thankfully for all of us, she came back after the holidays (collective cheer!!). Gigi is an encyclopedia of IRL pics of, well, everything. (and hilarious to boot!!) One of the sweaters that I always loved and coveted that she had tried on was the J Crew Chunky Star Cable Popover Sweater. As you are probably guessing, it popped up in the Sale section this weekend. I first saw it Saturday and tried to forget. Kept thinking about it. Checked size - L. Referred to Gigi's blog. She sized up, check. Told myself, as I was mulling it over in church on Easter, that if it was still around late in the afternoon, I would do it, and it would be a sign. (I'm very big on signs as you can probably tell - I've seen Sleepless in Seattle *way* too many times.) And did I mention it was $49.99, down from originally $128? Yep, I ordered it. Expect to see it here when it arrives. And if the order mysteriously cancels, and JC orders are wont to do? Yep, again, a sign, and I won't look for it again. (Update - as I was typing this, I got the email that it shipped. yes, a sign. and yes, I know I need to own my actions more - see note at bottom about extending my ban)

All of which brings me to....I am going to extend my shopping ban a little longer. I think I need to continue the re-focus a bit as I have clearly gotten off-track. Plus given the vet visit this week with Lucy, I'll be dropping enough money there. I do think this isn't a short trip. It's a journey towards a better understanding of self and habits.

Maybe I was a little nutty because the kids have been home for a week, but they do go back to school tomorrow. My eating habits haven't been so stellar this week either. Not too bad, but not where they should be. So I will continue to work towards my goal of a better and more balanced me. Thanks for joining me on the journey.

Don't forget, input requested on (1) colors to wear with the putty sweater and (2) thoughts on the shirt. Thanks!!