Making The Most Out Of Your Stitch Fix

I have been a huge fan of Stitch Fix since my first Fix arrived back in 2014. I have gotten some good Fixes, some so-so, some that were so close to perfection, and then one absolutely perfect one. While I probably don't have it down to a science, I am sharing with y'all some tips today on how to make the most out of your Stitch Fix experience!

But first, a quick primer on this fun style service. After filling out an extensive style profile and linking a Pinterest board or other helpful things for your stylist, you pick a date for your Fix to arrive. You can choose to schedule them automatically, but for me and my current budget situation I just do them when I can. Then, you wait anxiously for your Fix to arrive! :) Once it finds it's way to your front porch, you excitedly open your Fix up to find a personalized note from your stylist, 5 pieces they picked for you, and style cards to help you figure out what to pair with them. Awesome! Then, after trying everything on, you check out online and send back anything you don't want. You get 25% off for keeping everything in your Fix, and your $20 styling fee is applied to whatever you do decide to purchase. Easy, and so so fun! If you decide to sign up, I'd love if you'd use any of the links in this post, or copy and paste my personal referral link into your browser so I can get some credit https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/4356736 You'll get your own referral link when you sign up too :)

Okay, now onto my tips...

1. Make a Pinterest board just for Stitch Fix. This is the most important tip! When I initially signed up, I read about the importance of linking your style profile to a Pinterest board so the stylist can see what you like. I linked mine up to my blog's Pinterest, because I figured that's a perfect way for her to see what I wear. But the problem I see now is that, while I usually focus on wearing outfits on this blog that I have actually worn/plan to wear, sometimes I put things together to experiment. Which means my style can vary. Before my latest Fix (#6) I decided to make a board just for Stitch Fix. I think that is why my Fix was perfect! My stylist picked many things for me that I had actually pinned, and it gave her a better idea of what I wanted exactly.

2. Try everything on with items from your closet. The whole benefit of using Stitch Fix is that you get new styles delivered to you at home, at almost no risk. When you try on clothes at the store, you can only imagine the things they might go with at home. And then, if you take them home, you have to plan a trip back to the store to return if they don't work. That's too much back-and-forth if you're a busy person like me! When you can curate outfits, with the help of the included style cards, by integrating pieces from your existing closet, you'll be able to get an idea about if the new items will really work for you. 

3. Prepare to love all 5 items. It seems self explanatory, but be prepared financially to keep everything. I'm a college student on a tight budget, so I have to plan my spending on clothes carefully. Everyone should, college student or not! And I could definitely be better at it. I've always been okay with spending a little more on clothes I truly love, and on clothes that are better quality. Side note: I have found everything I've received from Stitch Fix to be fantastic quality. While you fill out how much you normally spend on clothing items in your style profile, sometimes you'll get a few items that stretch your budget all in the same Fix. That was what happened with Fix #4 for me; looking back, I would have kept 2/3 items I sent back if I had a little more money at the time. So lesson learned, now I always make sure I can spend a little more than I think my Fix will be, provided I love everything!

4. Be detailed. Always look over your style profile before each Fix, to make sure sizes are up to date and everything is aligned with your current likes. Also, make sure you fill out the note to your stylist each time, being clear about things you are looking for or upcoming events you'd like clothes for. Most of the time when I request a Fix I have some sort of event coming up, and every time I have been sent the perfect thing to wear! This was especially the case with Fix #3, and the dress I wore to my Engagement Party. 

5. Be open-minded. To new brands, to new styles, and the whole experience. Some of my favorite Stitch Fix pieces are things I might not have tried on in the store. Especially my olive pants, seen here, here, and here. I have discovered some great new brands with each Fix, which expands your shopping bubble. Most importantly though, it's necessary to stay open-minded about the whole experience. You won't love everything in every Fix, certainly not at first. And if you like to be very in control, it might take a Fix or two to let go and trust in the process. But I can almost guarantee that you will fall in LOVE with Stitch Fix!

Read all my Stitch Fix reviews thus far: #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6

Are you a fan of Stitch Fix? Any tips for new comers? If so, share in the comments!

--Caroline

Stitch Fix Haul #6

Yesterday I got my 6th Stitch Fix, and you'll never believe it... I'm keeping everything from this Fix! But before we get to the exciting details, a primer on Stitch Fix; in case your new to this amazing service.

After filling out an extensive style profile and linking a Pinterest board or other helpful things for your stylist, you pick a date for your Fix to arrive. You can choose to schedule them automatically, but for me and my current budget situation I just do them when I can. Then, you wait anxiously for your Fix to arrive! :) Once it finds it's way to your front porch, you excitedly open your Fix up to find a personalized note from your stylist, 5 pieces they picked for you, and style cards to help you figure out what to pair with them. Awesome! Then, after trying everything on, you check out online and send back anything you don't want. You get 25% off for keeping everything in your Fix, and your $20 styling fee is applied to whatever you do decide to purchase. Easy, and so so fun! If you decide to sign up, I'd love if you'd use any of the links in this post, or copy and paste my personal referral link into your browser so I can get some credit https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/4356736 You'll get your own referral link when you sign up too :)

Now, onto my latest Fix...

Ark n Co Pira Drape Blazer | S | $78 | Just like in my last Fix, I asked for a blazer that was less traditional, something for fun for my future job in the interior architecture & design world post graduation. I love this one! I mean it has stripes, so of course it was meant to be mine :) The weight is great; this will work in all seasons, and I think it can be worn casually or professionally. Verdict: Keep!

41 Hawthorn Aliyah Sleeveless Shell Blouse | S | $48 | Normally I find many blouses like this to be too sheer, but this one wasn't at all. The straps were a little long, which made the blouse very oversized on my smaller frame. I do a little sewing though, so I took out my pins to see if I could alter this myself. By bringing the straps up and adding a few pleats in the back, I think it looks much better! The fit is now much better. Verdict: Keep!

A GOLD E Brynn High Rise Skinny Jean | 2 | $108 | These are so comfortable & stretchy! I can see these being great for work, as well as for everyday wear. A classic staple my closet was missing. Verdict: Keep!

Here's another look at the blouse and jeans... I love this casual look for date night, paired with the clutch I got in this Fix! 

Street Level Nadia Woven Stud Clutch | $48 | This was an unexpected piece, but I fell in love with the texture and size of this clutch. I sort of became a leather snob while studying abroad in Florence last summer, but for faux leather this feels pretty realistic. And the pop of cobalt is fun!  Verdict: Keep!

 

Papermoon Brianna Aline Skirt | S | $68 | I had specifically requested a cobalt skirt to go with this blouse I got at The Limited, and this one is exactly what I was looking for. The slit in the front is fresh and unexpected, and the fit is spot on. Verdict: Keep!

I did something different in preparing for this Fix, which I think is why this one was so great. Next week I'll be posting about how to get your best Fix, so stay tuned! 

Happy Thursday!

--Caroline

Linking up with Crazy Together for her Stitch Fix Review Linkup

Cold Layers

January and February are home to some of the coldest days we get here in north Florida. When I wore this two weeks ago (I totally got ahead of my blogging! yay!) it was F R E E Z I N G. I'm from Colorado, so I've definitely been in colder before, but it was still darn cold! These layers were just barely enough... had I looked at the temperature before I left the house I would have thrown on a cami underneath my sweater from just a little extra warmth. 

I love the combination of my olive pants with this scarf I picked up in Italy last summer... they were definitely made for each other! I wore a similar look back in the fall, but I think I like this winter version better :) What can I say, I love winter fashion! 

Outfit Details

Michelangelo Florentine Leather Jacket / GAP Sweater (old) /  Level 99 Pants viz Stitch Fix / Koolaburra Booties

Premier Designs Jewelry: Darcy earrings, In Vogue watch.

--Caroline

Wind, Love & Leather Leggings

This was my outfit from last week, on my semi-last minute visit to see Kyle in Daytona. He always makes a face when I ask him to pretty please take a few outfit pictures for me, but he was sweet when he was taking these. I was fighting a little wind pushing my hair in my face, and while I'm complaining he made a comment about how it was okay because it turned out really pretty. So cute! This is why I love this man... well, and a million other reasons too. :)

I've worn these leather leggings a lot recently! Here I styled them with a tunic and a long, cascading cardigan to cover my butt. (Kyle thought I was silly for wanting to keep my butt covered in leggings.. men! lol ) Unfortunately, once I got back home I realized I left these leggings hanging up in his laundry room, and I won't see him for a few weeks... bummer!

Outfit Details

Skies Are Blue Cardigan from Stitch Fix / Old Navy Tunic / "Leather Leggings" from Ross (similar) /  Easy Spirit Flats

Premier Designs Jewelry: Manhattan necklace, Starlet bracelet 

--Caroline

Stitch Fix Haul #5

Over the weekend I received my 5th Stitch Fix. For this Fix, I requested a variety of pieces I could wear to interviews and into my future employment (graduation is quickly approaching!). Some of my favorite pieces in my closet are from Stitch Fix, so it's always exciting to see what my stylist puts together for me. I liked all the pieces in this Fix, but it all seemed to be a little off, which was unfortunate. That's bound to happen from time to time! I'll share with you what I got anyway though.

But first, a primer on Stitch Fix, in case your new to this amazing service! After filling out an extensive style profile and linking a Pinterest board or other helpful things for your stylist, you pick a date for your Fix to arrive. You can choose to schedule them automatically, but for me and my current budget situation I just do them when I can. Then, you wait anxiously for your Fix to arrive! :) Once it finds it's way to your front porch, you excitedly open your Fix up to find a personalized note from your stylist, 5 pieces they picked for you, and style cards to help you figure out what to pair with them. Awesome! Then, after trying everything on, you check out online and send back anything you don't want. You get 25% off for keeping everything in your Fix, and your $20 styling fee is applied to whatever you do decide to purchase. Easy, and so so fun! Now, onto my latest Fix...

Fate Alonnah Knit Blazer | XS | $78 | My stylist added this is my Fix because I've been on the lookout for a blazer more appropriate for my creative field, something less stuffy. This one has sweater sleeves, which fits my criteria but they came up just a little too short, and I felt like the drape was a little much for my frame. Verdict: Send Back

Pixels Mirando Lasercut Detail Blouse | XS | $58 | I don't love how this lays on me, and I have something very similar already. Beautiful detailing along the bottom though. Verdict: Send Back

Margaret M Emer Printed Knit Straight Leg Pant | S | $98 | With an elastic waistband and soft fabric, these pants are so comfortable! Initially I was a little torn because they were so comfy, they almost felt like relaxing pants, not work pants. The print is fun, and I think they would get a lot of use. Verdict: Keep!

Skies Are Blue Misti Shirt Dress | XS | $68 | Olive/military green is totally having a moment in my closet right now, and I've received pieces by this brand before so I was excited to see another in this Fix. If I hadn't just bought this beautiful green dress from Banana Republic Factory, I'd keep this dress! Unfortunately I'm trying to keep my closet at a reasonable number of items, and I can't justify having two very similar dresses. Verdict: Send Back

Le Lis Cadence Dress | XS | $58 | Grid-print is very in right now, and I liked the high neckline of this dress. However, it was just a tad too form fitting for my taste, and I didn't love the feel of the fabric. I wanted to love it though! Verdict: Send Back

Overall this was not my favorite Fix, and I only kept one item. I'm going to request another one to try some other styles for work... While I don't have a job lined up yet, I want to be prepared for any interviews that might come my way! If you're in a creative field, do you have any wear-to-work tips you can give me? 

Happy Monday!

--Caroline

Candy Hearts

GOOOOO BRONCOS!!! Super Bowl 50 Champions!!!

Last week I got dinner with my two old roommates for a catch-up dinner, and this was what I was planning on wearing, until the weather didn't corporate with my plans... I love the mix of rose gold, light gray, and pale blue; it reminds me of Valentine's Day candy! This outfit just makes me happy; last week when I was planning outfits and taking some pictures for TSL, it was funny because I could tell which outfits I LOVED and which ones I just Really Liked. No one else can tell in the pictures (at least I assume so!), but posing just felt more natural in the outfits I loved! I think this goes back to a little about what I've been thinking of this year in terms of making sure you love everything in your closet, and that it is truly a representation of you. 

Outfit Details

Million Cardigan from Stitch Fix / Love Stitch dress (similar) / Alejandrinas Sandals

Premier Designs Jewelry: Sunkissed necklace

--Caroline

Free Spirit

I've had my eye on this shirt for awhile; the rust color is nothing like anything I have in my closet, so I thought it'd be a fun way to test out a new color. It came back on Jane.com a week or so ago, so I scooped it up, and I got it in the mail last week! I quickly tried it on with the pants I already had on (see last week's post) and I really like it! The light at the time I took these pictures doesn't capture the color 100% accurately, but you get the idea. 

Also, I think I finally figured out a secret to these booties. I've been struggling with what socks to wear with them, because they cut down so low in the front (which I love). I've tried them without socks, (and here too), and with socks that matched my outfit. I don't want to go sock-less if it's cold out, and the socks that matched my outfit looked a little childish. Here, I kept on my dark grey socks and pushed down my pant legs all the way past my ankle, before putting the boots on. Only up close can you see just a touch of the grey socks, and the tucked in pants create the illusion of longer legs. So I think the key is to tuck in my pants, and pair with socks that match either the booties or my pants! 

Outfit Details

Buffalo Tee from Sashy Pants / Level 99 pants from Stitch Fix / Koolaburra Booties

Premier Designs Jewelry: Monterey necklace

--Caroline

2015: A Year In Review

Today I'm sharing the highlights from this little blog of mine in 2015! I cannot believe the year is already coming to a close; another year, flying right on by!

I started out the year with a lots of cute Winter and Early Spring outfits, but my favorite was this icy monochromatic look.

Then a crazy thing happened; my sweet guy Kyle proposed over spring break, and because he hired a photographer I was able to share Proposal Pictures! This event lead to several posts dedicated to all things wedding; highlights were Venue Hunting 101, Wedding Dress Shopping, Centerpiece Ideas, and Wedding Day Hair Ideas.

My summer adventures prompted a lot of blog posts, especially What I Learned From A 30 Piece Wardrobe. If you're freezing right now, look at the pictures in my post about Lake Como to feel better. That is definitely one of my favorite places ever!

You loved reading all about my Stitch Fix Hauls: 2 / 3 / 4 I can't wait to order my next Stitch Fix!

I shared many great Fall Outfits, but if I had to pick two it would be this early fall shorts combo and my poncho & booties look! Both feature the Color Of 2015, Marsala. 

I shared multiple ways to wear Plum Cords and Denim Dresses.

And I finished off the year with come cute wintery outfits from my trip to Colorado! This outfit with my Red Speckled Cardigan is my personal favorite. 

Thank you all so much for following me in 2015! I hope you've enjoyed reading my posts as much as I've enjoyed writing them. Cheers to 2015, and to all the blessings & adventures 2016 will throw our way. Happy New Year, Y'all!

--Caroline

Printed Dress & Vintage Jewels

My week in Colorado was a whirlwind! As I'm sure you read yesterday, Kyle and I kept ourselves plenty busy... I wish we had a few extra days there to really enjoy ourselves. But alas, back to Florida we go. 

This was what I wore when we went to church; this dress was from my latest Stitch Fix box, and I have been dying to wear it again. Paired with navy tights and gray accents to bring out the colors of the print, the overall look is perfectly pulled together. Because I love my collection of vintage jewels I keep at my parents house, I decided to wear my favorite piece, a necklace that is a watch! Pretty darn unique!

Outfit Details

Million Draped cardigan via Stitch Fix / Collective Concepts dress via Stitch Fix / Charming Charlies boots (similar) / vintage necklace

--Caroline

Stitch Fix Haul #4

So all while I was in Europe and busy wedding planning this summer, my two friends who love Stitch Fix as much as I do kept sending me pictures from their Fixes. I got so jealous! lol :) Stitch Fix is just such a fun, exciting way to "go shopping" {truthfully the shopping comes to your doorstep} and I just was so transient this summer that I wasn't able to order my next one.

But not anymore! Last week I received Fix #4 in the mail, and Berlioz was so confused by my excitement as I came home from class and rushed to open this box. My sweet kitty boy just didn't understand. You can see that he hung out with my though the whole time, as he makes his way into several of the pictures to follow :)

Item 1: Adora Stud Border Tote by Octavia

I love this tote! It's very spacious, the studded detailing adds a little edge, and I could see it being a fantastic statement piece for fall. Unfortunately {or fortunately} I spent a good chunk of change this summer on an Italian leather handbag made in Florence, so I had a hard time justifying keeping this one. Returned.

Item 2: Queensland Dolman Jersey Top by 41Hawthorn 

Instant love with this soft, flowy top! I asked for versatile pieces I could wear casually or dressed up for presentations in class, and this top is perfect for that. I knew it was a keep for sure when I didn't want to take it off to change back into what I was already wearing for a Premier Designs training, so I cut the tags off while I still had it on and walked out the door! Kept, obviously. 

Item 3: Reagan Skinny Pant by Liverpool

These pants are very dark in this picture. They are a kind of really dark, almost black, olive with a pattern to them. More like leggings, I was not a fan of them. The legs were also so long that I would of probably had to hem them, which I certainly don't have the time for. While everything else in this Fix was a win, this was the one thing that I was not a fan of. Returned. 

Item 4: Sonja Boyfriend Jean by Mavi

I was excited to see another pair of Mavi jeans in this Fix, and I really love how they fit! Lately I've been feeling like I'm getting tired of wearing skinny jeans, so I had asked for a new kind of denim. They were just a touch tight, so they look more like straight leg jeans on me. I was really torn with keeping these, but like the bag I just couldn't quite justify spending the money on these at the moment. Returned.

Item 5: Sofia Leaf Print Dress by Collective Concepts

Lori, my stylist for this Fix, said "I can't wait for your thoughts on the Collective Concepts dress." Lori, if you're reading this, I LOVE IT. It's perfect! Like I mentioned, I wanted some versatile pieces in this Fix, and this dress can be worn casually with sandals, more put together with flats and a statement necklace, or for a presentation in class with flats or heels and a nice cardigan. The print of this dress is also unique, something I don't have already in my wardrobe. Total win with this one, and the highlight of my Fix. Kept. 

Overall it was a great Fix! I can't wait for the next one :). If you haven't tried Stitch Fix before, make sure to check it out using this link:     https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/4356736 

I may or may not receive a little kick back if you sign up! :) {And by that I mean I do, so help a sista out if you want to try it!}

Have a fantastic Monday!

--Caroline

Stitch Fix Haul #3

I cannot stop ranting and raving about Stitch Fix. This styling service has me 100% hooked! I love how easy it is, and it's nice to have someone else do the footwork for me since I'm so busy with school. For this Fix, I requested a dress to wear for a little engagement party my friends are throwing me here in Florida, a celebration before people start to graduate and leave town. Ask, and I received!

Item #1: Maude Floral Dress by Le Lis

Even though I recently bought a black and white striped dress, and have another black and white one hanging in my closet, I am keeping this dress. The fit is perfect, it is lightweight, and very trans-seasonal. It's also the type of dress that can go from one event to the next; I think I could style it casually for day, dress it up a bit for church, add a blazer for work, or dress it up for night by adding a sparkly belt! 

Item #2: Knox Polka Dot Dress by Kensie

When I first opened up the box and saw this dress, I was a little skeptical. It's not something I would probably try on or take home from the store, but after trying it with different things in my closet I could't even think about sending it back! I love it paired here with this rosey statement necklace... I got the idea from my stylist, who had said she had tailored everything in the Fix to my engagement ring. I wish my engagement ring was back from being sized!

Item #3: Floria Split Back Knit Top by Papermoon

I love the idea of this top, as the split back detail is a huge trend right now, but it was just not for me. I'm not a fan of too-sheer tops (I really hate having to wear a camisole underneath) and the overall look wasn't something I love. Oh well!

Item #4: Sue Eyelet Detail Top by Skies Are Blue

Aside from the sheerness, this top is perfect! When I saw it in the box, I thought it'd be perfect for Italy this summer, but the whole cami situation bothers me. But the detailing is great! Skies Are Blue is slowly becoming one of my favorite brands... There has been an item from them in every single Fix!

Item #5: Allison Keyhole Detail Blouse by Daniel Rainn

This is a cute top, the cut is definitely not something I own, but the heart print throws me off a bit! The sheerness of this one doesn't bother me as much as the other two tops, but alas at the end of the day this one went back too.

I kept only the two dresses, but I'm so happy with those that it makes the tops seem insignificant. What's great about Stitch Fix is that they push you to try new things, and even if they don't always work out it's still very exciting and fun! I really want to schedule my next Fix, but since I'll be in Europe in LESS THAN A MONTH I guess I'll have to wait until I get back. 

I haven't decided which dress to wear for my engagement party this weekend... what are your thoughts?

--Caroline

Linking Up With: Walking in Memphis in High Heels and The Fashion Canvas for the Trend Spin Linkup