Hey Glossies,

Many trends come and go, but the one that I want to remain en vogue for every season is animal print, specifically feline prints.

Some people think that animal prints are for tarts or unsophisticated women. But I am here to say that animal prints in the right doses, can make a woman look elegant and chic.

A few months ago, I was watching “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father” on TCM.  I had seen bits and pieces of the movie before, but I had not really checked out the fashions.  I still missed most of the dialogue, but the fashions did not escape my eye this time. One of the characters, Rita Behrens, socialite extraordinaire, played by Dina Merrill, wore a dress with leopard print accents with a leopard hat.

“Ms. Behrens” wore the outfit to a small wedding.  I love how the print is used on this dress. Just enough to add sass and retain sophistication.  The jewelry is understated as not to overpower the dress.

Well, I found some modern animal (feline) print pieces that I adore.

Ann Taylor Animal Sketch Print Cardigan

I love this cardigan! I like that the Ann Taylor Animal Sketch Print Cardigan is short-sleeve. (a great option for the spring and early fall) It can be dressed down for a weekend outing with friends or dressed up for a quiet dinner with the beloved. I would love to see this paired with coral.

Ann Taylor Faded Animal Pencil Skirt

The Ann Taylor Faded Animal Print Skirt is one of my favorite interpretations of animal print because it showcases understated elegance.  The barely-there print is great for a lady who wants to introduce feline prints slowly.  In-person, the skirt has gold threading which just adds so much more to the design.

Talbots Cheetah tie-neck top

Talbot has been showcasing feline-inspired prints for a few months now  July is Leopard. August is Cheetah

The Talbots Cheetah tie-neck top is perfect.  Why? Because the top is quite versatile.  It is a great top for work, evening hangouts, weekend jaunts and church.  This top is, firmly, on my wishlist. Please note that this top is available in Misses and Women’s sizes.

Talbots Leopard print ruched-shoulder sweater (R)

I also love the Talbots Leopard print ruched-shoulder sweater and is also in the top 5 on my wishlist. I will confess that this version of leopard is a bit busy, so I think it should be the focal point of any outfit that is put together.  I plan on wearing the sweater with the Talbots Combed cotton flyaway cardi in Scarlet and a fab belt. Please note that these sweaters are available in Misses and Women’s sizes

Talbots Combed cotton flyaway cardi in Scarlet

I LOVE pink and coral, so I love that Milly combined my loves into one garment. The Milly ‘Louisa’ Cheetah Print Halter Top

Milly 'Louisa' Cheetah Print Halter Top

is a fun top.  The Louisa is a great top for a sassy lady who wants to highlight her playful side, but still wants others to know that she means business.

Are you loving the animal prints? If so, what are your favorite pieces? If not, why not??

Mix Maven

Hey Glossies,

Finally back to blogging. The entire family has been sick over the past few weeks and we all took turns as the primary caretaker.  Thankfully, everyone is back to business!  I will be posting a TMS Chicago wrap-up soon.  So look out for that.

I am always giving shopping advice.  My frequent advice to most people who are scared of shopping at certain retailers, is that they can shop most places to find deals and nice pieces to add to the wardrobe collection.  Sadly, I do not always take my own advice, I won’t shop at a store if I find most of the items do not resemble my Taste.

This summer I have been branching out and buying pieces that I would never give a second look. (Not because I do not like these pieces, but I did not think they would work). So I saw this dress on Ann Taylor website,  the Silk Utility Shirt Dress.  I do adore this dress and it will be apart of my fall wardrobe line-up avec cardigan, of course!

Ann Taylor Silk Utility Shirt Dress

Recently, a friend and I have begun a huge undertaking that could yield great success.  As we were out getting our plans together, we decided to look around the mall.  We walked past Coldwater Creek store and I was telling her how I have seen a few nice pieces on the website, but it is not a store I want to be seen in.  We laughed and kept on our agenda.  So while we were scoping out another mall for the project we are working on,  I said, “what the hey, let’s go into the store. We might find something.”  I really did not have high hopes nor did I want have those hopes.  The Sales Lady, a very young woman I might add, was telling us about the sales and we smiled and nodded and began perusing the store.  I found a few pieces that I REALLY liked, but were not available in my size. Then I saw this “dress”

Coldwater Creek Washed silk tunic in Wild Heather

I paid a bit over $25 for this dress (original price was $159).  This “dress” is really a tunic, a very long one at that, which is why I will be wearing it as a dress with flats.  Maybe mid-fall, I will wear with black tights and such.

My friend also found a cute top for her upcoming vacation.  So all went well at the Coldwater Creek.  I do have my eye on another dress, and yes, it is really a dress.  Maybe I’ll get it when it goes on sale.

I am glad I took my own advice.

Have you made any “out of your comfort zone” purchases lately??

Mix Maven

Hey Glossies,

Happy  Cinco de Mayo to you!!

Recently, I found a UK store called Dorothy Perkins, which is a sister brand to TopShop.  Dorothy Perkins sells up to size UK 22/ US 18. Size 14/10 and lower have loads more selections than Sizes 20/16 and 22/18, but there is no shortage of cute wearable items.

My first step in my shopping plan of action when I find a new store is to always peruse the sale/clearance section. I must know which items remain in stock and how low the prices can get.  I also review the body measurements information.

While perusing the sale section, I found the Snake print dress in pink.  While this look does not fit the classic aesthetic that  I love, it was a must-have for me.  I ordered over 2 weeks and I finally got it this week.

Checkout Process

The checkout process was mildly brutal. For some reason, the site would not take my contact information, but after a few minutes, the information “took”, so I was well on the way to the payment screen.  I suggest if you are not a UK CC holder, use PayPal.  My CC was declined, even though there was more than enough funds to cover the payment.  The bank flagged the transaction as fraudulent. I had to call the bank to clear up the situation, which did not take long, but it was still a hassle.

Delivery Process

Usually when I order from a UK site (Amazon.co.uk, Boden (Limited Edition items), my order usually comes in about a week, maybe 10 days.  I placed a second order with Dorothy Perkins a week after placing the initial order.  I received that order within a week, which arrived before the initial order.  I refer to that as the William and Kate miracle because it arrived on the day of the wedding. LOL  The first order arrived over 2 weeks after I purchased it.  I think it was well worth the wait.

Note -  there are no tracking numbers for international orders. Contact customer service if the package does not arrive in ten days.  There is a toll-free number for US customers.

Quality

I compare the quality of the clothes to the GAP, maybe Forever 21. I bought a mac trench coat and the coat had a pretty black and white polka dot lining.  I have purchased trenches from the Gap that did not have lining.  Even the pink snake print dress has a lining in the bodice.  The material was also appropriate for the season.  Many of the items are machine washable.

Overall

I have and will repurchase from Dorothy Perkins.  I like the dress offerings a lot.  I am looking forward to see what they will offer for the fall and winter seasons.  I think the pieces that I have will mix in great with my wardrobe.

With the dresses that I purchased, I could have sized down one.

I suggest having a calculator handy or going to a currency conversion website to get a general idea of the cost in USD.

Pink Love by Pumps and Gloss featuring platform pumps

I plan on wearing this look in the early fall.

Mix  Maven

Hey Glossies,

I love shopping online and I find that all the garments that I really adore seem to be online only, meaning they were never available or sold out in the brick and mortar stores. Because of this,  I am serious about size charts (body measurements).  I used to print the size charts from my favorite retailers and place them above my desk in my home office, so I could have quick reference when I made online purchases.

So it all started when I wanted this particular pink dress.  I placed the sleeveless sheath on my wishlist.  When I went back to add items, I noticed that the size that I wanted was removed from the list because it was sold out. So when I went to add another size, I noticed that only a few sizes were left.  I was crushed, to say the least.   I went to the size chart to try to salvage my wishlist.  I was quite nervous about the sizing because one size seemed just right aka tight and the next size seemed too big. I was in Conundrum City, where I was the mayor.  I decided to opt-out of the dress.

During that same week,  I was browsing a fashion blog and clicked on a link for Boden USA.  I was browsing through and saw that there were some fun and flirty clothes that I liked. I started looking at the size chart (body measurements) when I noticed that there was also garment measurements. Garment Measurements are “the measurements of each finished garment included in the pattern, in each size.  These finished garment measurements include the maximum amount of ease given for each garment.” Sidebar - Garment measurements hold more weight (pun intended) than body measurements (size charts) and I think more (all) retailers should include garment measurements on their websites.

Each retailer creates its own pattern when constructing clothes.  Some retailers/brands allow for more give or room in each item.  That is why no one wears the same size in every brand or within a brand.  Clothing can have different ease, design or wearing.  Design ease is “the amount given for a specific design to get a certain look”, while wearing ease is “the amount needed to actually wear the garment, so you can lift your arms, sit down, etc.” Knowing this information will greatly reduce feelings of low self-esteem in the fitting room.  That is the number reason why I never get stuck on a number because I would miss out some great pieces.

Purchasing Story

I purchased the Boden Jewelled Ruffle Top and Boden Silk Painterly Top based on the garment measurements.  According to the GMs, both blouses should have been huge on me, but the fit was off in the bust area for the Jewelled Ruffle top.  The Silk Painterly top fits ok, but I would not wear by itself.  I will be pairing with a cardigan.  I am not sure what is going on with Boden’s Blouse/Top GMs, but I do not find them too accurate.  That hurts me to say because I love some of the pieces they offer and the quality is good! (Sidebar: I also purchased a skirt from Boden and the fit was great!)

Boden Jewelled Ruffle Top (Limited Edition)

Jewelled Ruffle Top will be returned!

Boden Silk Painterly Top (Limited Edition)

I also purchased the Talbots Blackwatch plaid sheath.  This dress did not come in the Women’s sizes, but I really wanted it. I called the customer service and received the garment measurements, which confirmed that I could purchase the dress in the Misses size.  I poplocked and twirled in my family room.  LOL  I am glad to report that the fit is great. The results further make my Boden blouse experience quite sad, but I am going to give them another chance.

Talbots Blackwatch plaid sheath

Suggestions

1. Get measured. Most, if not all, clothing sites have detailed instructions on how and where to measure on the body.  This should be done regularly, especially if weight loss/gain has occurred.
2. When I am feeling nervous about a fit, I call or send an email to customer service asking about the garment measurements.  I am always organized, including product name, sku/product number, and size. I have found that most CSRs are happy to help in this endeavor.  Save the information for comparison.
3. Compare measurements to garment measurements. By doing this, the best fit (size) will be determined.

Any more fit suggestions??

Happy Haulin’,

Mix Maven

“Sewing 101: Pattern Size and Body Measurements.” Simplicity.com: Patterns, Tools and Supplies for All Things Sewing, Knitting, Quilting, and Crafting. Simplicity. Web. 14 Mar. 2011. <http://www.simplicity.com/t-sewing-101-part2.aspx>.

Hey Glossies,

Hope your week is going well.

Today’s fashion’s emphasis is the skirt. I am a huge fan of the skirt. Back in the day, I only wore skirts to church.  Then when I got pregnant, I stopped wearing skirts altogether. But last year, I realized that pants did not offer me the color variety and creativity that I desired when putting outfits together.

Wearing skirts can be tricky, if one does not wear the right silhouette.  For example, full skirts and some A-lines and I do not get along at all, but pencil skirts are my favorite.  The pencil accentuates my legs and highlight my smaller hips.

Here are some great skirts options for work (or church):

Halogen Ponte Knit Pencil Skirt - Deep Blue

I love the Halogen Ponte Knit Pencil Skirt in deep blue.  I love navy blue, but royal blue no so much, so this shade of blue is a tad deeper than royal, which adds to the magic.  I think this color can be worn with many different solid color and print options.  I think a great frilly/ruffle top would add some pizazz to the skirt.

Ruche Brilliant in Bolds Floral Skirt

The Ruche Brilliant in Bolds Floral Skirt is a beauty. The white, black and yellow floral print is accented with black beading. I suggest not pairing this skirt with a white, black or yellow top because doing so would make this fab skirt boring.  What about trying a royal blue, pink, kelly green even a chartreuse top?

Talbots Poplin Full Skirt and Garden Print Full Skirt

Talbots Poplin Full Skirt and Garden Print Full Skirt are great options for the ladies who love full skirts.  These Talbots options are classic and timeless.

JCrew Ripple stripe pencil skirt

J.Crew Ripple stripe pencil skirt is quite chic, yet understating.  There are so many pairings for this skirt, I think it is definitely worth checking out.

Anthropologie Drawing Parallels Skirt

Anthropologie Drawing Parallels Skirt is pretty in green! This color and skirt is seasonless.  Now, if I could get the drawing skirt in a pencil. *Awwww Yeah*

Which skirts are you eyeing for spring/summer?

Mix Maven

Dear Glossies,

Hope your week is going well.

I have been totally in love with dresses since last spring.  Right now, I am obsessed with lace!

Lace is the epitome of elegance, class, refinement and femininity.  There are those who feel only babies, old ladies and tables should wear lace, but NO!! Lace can be fun and flirty and look great on most!!

Talbots Winter Lace Dress - Navy Blue

The Talbots Winter Lace Dress is full of gorgeousness! The navy blue lace is lined in green (topiary).  I love navy blue because the color is quite dignified and classic.

LAUREN BY RALPH LAUREN Sleeveless Boatneck Dress - Lace

I love this Lauren by Ralph Lauren boatneck lace dress because it really does not need much extra styling.  Shimmer + Lace = Magic!

Suzi Chin Maggie Boutique Lace Shift Dress

This Suzi Chin Maggie Lace Shift Dress is so delightful.  I am reminded of spring and the warmth it will bring. The  unique circular lace patterns adds visual interest to this shift dress.  Adding a thin leather belt would result in extra sophistication.

Dolce and Gabbana Lace Overlay Sheath Dress

This Dolce and Gabbana Lace Overlay Sheath Dress is quite exquisite.  The lace pattern is so pretty and the texture adds extra elegance.

Are you loving lace like I am? Any favorite looks you have seen?

Mix Maven

Hey Glossies,

For a long time, I have been crying about certain retailers expanding the product lines to offer plus sizes, especially the retailers who sell more classic clothing.  I am not a ruching and strings Chica aka I don’t like club wear, which is why I have rarely ventured much into the world of plus-size world other than Ralph Lauren*and Michael Kors.  I also can wear traditional Misses sizes, which is why I don’t like when stores do not offer certain products individually rather than in sets e.g. suits.

So my Special shout out goes to Talbots for showcasing Plus-size models in the Women’s section of the site.  Really, I want to give them a super shout out for creating and selling wonderful classic styles for the all women AND allowing me to create outfits from Misses and Women.

Talbots Heritage Fit Seasonless-wool wide-leg pants

Talbots Matte jersey epaulette dress

Talbots Poplin Poet shirt

Talbots clothes are not nearly as frumpy as they used to be, which is reason I was not a fan in the past.  The clothes are chic for business as well as play.  Talbots does fun and flirty very well, which is why I am glad Talbots has revamped the brand!! Now, if I were AT, I would be shaking in my boots…..Just sayin’.

*Ralph Lauren has been showcasing plus-size models on its website, who are ethnically diverse as well. So Kudos to that brand too!!

Mix Maven

Hey Glossies,

Some of us might be knee-deep in snow or shut-in because of icy roads, but know that Spring is nigh.  Retailers know this fact too, so they have been marking down and clearing out fall and winter items.  There are even several retailers that have instituted the “Final Sale” policy, which means no exchanges and no returns.   This policy can be a hassle, but do not let “Final Sale” policies be a foe, especially online.

Here are some tip some final sale shopping tips -

1. Become familiar with silhouettes that work for your shape. -  For example, I know that pencil skirts work best on me than A-line skirts, so I always opt for the former than the latter.
2. Also become familiar with the product offerings at the stores with the “Final Sale” policies - When the new season hits the store, I, immediately, go and look around and try on my favorite items.  I also put my faves on a wishlist on the retailer’s website, so when the sales begin, I am ready to shop.
3. Note which sizes you can wear - This is very important.  Get accurate body measurements.  I noticed that w/ one of my favorite retailers, the fall/winter clothes are bigger than the spring/summer clothes. For example, someone who wears in a size in 8 in winter may wear a size 10 in summer.  I am not sure why that is, so get the sizing right. (This also important when it comes to shoes.)
4. Contact customer service to get garment sizes – I suggest being quite organized and have a list of the sku or item numbers.  Many retailers have this information.  You can compare this information to your own body measurements to see if item will fit or not.
5. Go in-store (if you can) to purchase final sale items. – Recently, I was able to visit a clearance outlet and I tried on everything before I purchased  I ended up getting less items than I planned on, but I felt very good about my purchase.
6. Re-Sell on Ebay or Have a Fashion Swap Party - If you have purchased item(s) that did not work out.
7. Doubt means DON’T – I always feel that I have control over all my purchases. If I feel a slight discomfort about a size or fit, I will not purchase if I think that I will be stuck with the purchase.

Do you shy away from Final Sales or does the deal encourage you to buy?

Mix Maven

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Liz Claiborne New York Outlets. All opinions are 100% mine.

Hey Glossies,

In my book, the most wonderful time of year is Autumn.  Why?? Because I love sweaters, especially cardigans!  Every year my goal is to keep my cardigan game strong.   Cardigans add warmth without being oppressive, can add flare to any plain outfit. My favorite cardigans tend to have sequins (a small amount), faux pearls and/or diamonds. And do not forget the plain ones come in handy too. I love to see a  cardigan worn with a floral-embellished silky top and wool pencil skirt with a leather bootie platform heel.

A great place to purchase pretty cardigans and other fall must-haves is the Liz Claiborne New York Outlets.  Recently, a friend and I went into one of local Liz Claiborne outlet stores, we were surprised at the the great selection.  My friend purchased a gorgeous little black dress for an upcoming holiday party (never too early to get ready for the holidays).  She also got some great suits for work.  I loved the selection of sweaters and skirts (variety of colors and textures).  I also liked the shoe selections….shoes that are adorable and functional.  The accessories were pretty and classic. I had my eye on fabulous tote bag. Adding to the fabulousness of the selections, the prices are PHENOMONAL!

Check out your local Liz Claiborne New York Outlets for the hottest fall looks at deep discount prices.

Happy Haulin’,

Mix Maven

Hey Glossies,

Steals and Deals will return on Tuesday.  Mothers Day weekend was quite hectic and I managed to have an awesome Sunday.   I hope all the Mothers had a great day!!

Shu Uemura is having an anniversary sale online until May 14, 2010.   Get 20% off orders and free shipping on $50 or more.  The coupon code is HAPPY.

I love Shu Uemura’s paint liners, single eye shadows and the stick foundations.  So stock up today!!

Happy Haulin,

Mix Maven