Thursday, December 17, 2015

Stitch Fix #4 - December 2015

Stitch Fix #4 - December 2015

Before I begin, remember Stitch fix requires a $20 styling fee that will be deducted from any purchases and a 25% discount if you buy all five items.  Anything you do not wish to keep, you send back in a prepaid shipping bag.  So far I am 1 in 4 for purchasing all 5 items. If you are inspired by my blog or if I help you in any way, please use my stitch fix referral code when you sign up! Thanks! :)

What I requested:  For this fix, I again requested jeans.  I really wanted to see if they would learn from my feedback on the too small jeans from fix #3.  I also requested a jean jacket. I've always wanted one and love how denim jackets can be paired with a variety of outfits.  I must say that my stylist delivered!

My Stylist for this fix:
This time around, my stylist was Brian.  I am all for a male stylist.  Brian really did an awesome job with 4 out of the 5 items.  I will discuss why I think one was a dud in a bit.  His note gave me great advice on how to pair the items he sent.  He also mentioned my Stitch Fix blog.  I am not sure if he has found this site or was referring to something else. I am rather new to social media and blogging, so I have very few followers right now.

The box - Stitch Fix #4 - I love the thrill of getting the box! Opening it is very exciting and I can't wait to see the colors and fabrics chosen.  I must say, I am one to begin searching for the items in my box online as soon as the box ships.  I usually can find reviews on 2-3 items each time.  I really enjoy getting pieces that not many others out there have, or at least have reviewed.

When I opened and began unpacking the box, I loved the colors. They are colors I would choose and are perfect for Christmas. As requested my items included a pair of jeans and a denim jacket.


Now for the review!



Skies are Blue Davies Crew Neck Blouse Size L ($48)

The pattern of this blouse is really different than anything I own.  I like the holiday feel to it, but I can see myself wearing it through fall and winter.  It is looks better paired with a cardigan.  In general, I really wish I had more items on the style cards. My card showed it paired with a grey pencil skirt and mustard cardigan (both of which I do not own). However, the other pairing was with dark jeans and a brown cardigan! Finally something on a style card that I actually own.  Although in my style profile, I did say to stray away from polyester tabbed sleeve shirts, this is different enough that I seriously gave it a shot.  The shirt is very comfortable and has a good loose fit.  It is not long enough for me to wear with my tighter Emer trousers, but it goes well with black or grey bottoms and jeans.  I like this shirt with a cardigan.  It is fun addition to my winter attire.  Status: Kept!

Just USA Anjuli Dark Wash Denim Jacket Size L ($58)

In the note from my stylist Brian said
"You asked for a denim jacket and you have received.  Try this jacket with a nice black pant and pair it with a light blouse.  I wouldn't wear them with these jeans because they are so close in color that they aren't really good to pair together."  
Boy did he deliver!  I love this jacket. It fits great, the arm length is perfect, and I love the look.  I think it looks good with my dress (from fix #3) but will be looking to wear it with lighter blouses too.  The only thing I realized is that it is winter, so how do I wear it out?  Not really a concern as this will be a staple in my wardrobe for years to come. Status: Kept instantly!

Look by M Alpine Plaid Wrap Scarf ($44)

The moment I saw the color and pattern I was in love. The texture is so soft and warm too.  It is a perfect long scarf for the winter, once winter arrives. (It has been record warm lately.)  I do feel it is a bit bulky to wear in the suggested way (top left picture), but scarves can be worn in so many ways. I'm sure I could find a blanket scarf at BJ's (I've seen some there) among many other actual clothing stores for much less.  However, I have yet to see a pattern like this and the texture is unbelievably soft.  This also reminds me of why I love Stitch Fix - I do not have to go shopping.  I love this scarf and can't wait to use it!  Verdict: Kept

Just Black Shaylee Straight Leg Jean Size 12 ($78)

The moment I had been waiting for, the jeans!  I requested to try a pair of jeans again, since last time they were much too small.  I also know that it can take many fixes until they stylists understand what fits well and what does not.  It must be difficult to dress someone they cannot not see. Although, you can upload a profile picture through their Apple Iphone App. Holding up the jeans, I could see that they are larger than the pair from fix #3.  This made me hopeful.  I of course then tried the jeans on. Honestly, they looked pretty good.  However, the waist for me was too tight. I just couldn't get 100% comfortable. What I loved about this pair was the color and texture.  The length is a little long, but I don't mind jeans that need a roll once in awhile.  These jeans are also an example of how Stitch Fix sends me clothes that if I saw at a store I would never think to try on.  I usually stray away from slim fitting straight or skinny jeans.  I was at clothing store over that weekend, and I randomly saw some jeans that looked very similar to these.  I tried them on, and they fit perfect!  I ended up purchasing those for $20 (pictured above with the Skies are Blue Davies Blouse).  Regardless, returning this pair was a hard decision. My husband even told me it would be ok to keep all five items this time.  The discount basically gives you the fifth item free.  Verdict: I sent the Just Black jeans back and weeks later, I have no regrets.

Dee Elle Nadie Pullover Sweater Size L ($68)

This sweater can be seen in the images above with the jeans.  What I liked about this sweater was the color.  It is very similar in color and the same material, acrylic, as a sweater I kept from my last fix.  Knowing that, I was disappointed. As much as I would love more cranberry or deep red sweaters, I was hoping Stitch Fix would mix up my wardrobe more.  Maybe I need to revisit my style profile?  The fit of the sweater was perfect and it would be warm for the winter weather.  The feature that solidified this sweaters return was the fish net type crochet at the neckline and over the shoulders. I would be self conscious wearing this too work at a high school and I did not have any camisoles that seemed to work under it.  The theme of this fix was holiday attire, so for a party, this might be good. I am just not a person to buy an item for one or two occasions. Since I knew I was returning the jeans, this was an easy decision.  Returned.  

When will my next fix be?  

I decided to lengthen the time between this fix and the next for several reasons.  I was feeling ill for three weeks through the holidays and unable to exercise and eat healthy.  I would like to give myself some time to recover and want to receive my fixes when I am feeling good about myself.  Until then, I have many new great winter pieces to enjoy!  Thanks for reading! Please use my stitch fix referral code when you sign up! Thanks!

Are you interested in my other fixes?
September 2015 - Fix #1
October 2015 - Fix #2
November 2015 - Fix #3

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Our Kindness Elves - Day 2

Our Kindness Elves Day 2


I was prepared for Day 2 for awhile.  I knew that the elves were going to bring the Advent chocolate Calendar from Trader Joe's.  We previously purchased one for each child a couple weeks ago.  I should also say that not everyone's elves have to be out the entire month of December. Some elves come around for 12 days of kindness before, or some other variation.

I decided to relocate the elves to the top of our Poinsettia on the buffet cabinet located in our kitchen.  A high traffic area, where the kids (and us) tend to through our junk, papers, etc... is a fine place for the elves to make their debut.  I included the calendars, the note from Day 1, and a photo showing where they were on Day 1.  I typed a short note and taped it to the back of the Day 1 photo.  I am not going to include an exact replica of each notes, as I want some of what we do to be special only to our children.  But here is recap:
The note mentioned how they were not seen and mentioned some good things they say the kids to yesterday.  They also reminded the kids to pick out names for them.
This day was almost awkward for us.  Our kids were not sure what to do.  Never before have we done something like this.  Part of me feels bad for the white lies, but we might as well have fun while the kids are young and reinforce good behavior, right?   My kids were so unsure that it took all day to name them.  I finally looked up a list of elf names and read some off to help the decision.  Although our kids are young, we let them name them.  Needless to say, the name of one elf is very funny and makes little sense to anyone but our family.

Throughout the day, the kids did not mention the elves much.  I was yet again wondering if I made a mistake and the Kindness Elves were a lost cause for my kids this year.

To be continued...


This blog is an independent account of our Kindness Elves only.  This is not an endorsed site for any other websites mentioned. 




Our Kindness Elves - How we got started


Our Kindness Elves 


We bought our elves from etsy.com (link directly to them).  They have others, but these looked so adorable and fit our budget, only $12!  I found the idea of the Kindness Elf when searching for nice Elf on the shelf idea.  We do own an Elf on the Shelf, but have never really done anything with it.  My husband and I discussed that we wanted to reinforce the good our children do and reinforce kind acts rather than having a naughty elf in our house.  Our kids are toddlers, so I know going into this that they may not even understand much this year.  I am not against Elf on the Shelf for everyone. In fact, I have friends whose elf does wonderfully nice things too.  For us, we wanted something different. 

There are other blogs and websites devoted to Kindness Elves.  A quick search and you'll find them.  However, there is not as much out there as there is for the Elf on the Shelf.  My conviction for Kindness Elves was further solidified today when I was at a local store and there was the adoption center and merchandise galore for the Elf on the Shelf.  I didn't want my kids going to a store and seeing their elves.  

I wanted to take pictures of our elves every day, but with the daily business of life, I forgot a day a here and there.  Also note that our elves do not do something special every day.  Some nights they just move around the house to a new location for the kids to find in the morning.  This brings me to how it works.  The elves of course can only move around at night when everyone is sleeping.  They report back to Santa each night and tell him about all the good the kids do each day, no matter how small that kindness or positive behavior may be.  Sometimes the elves do small fun things like decorate, leave a nice note, or ask the kids to spread kindness in a specific way.  As my kids grow, the kindness acts will get easier to carry-out.   The elves can come with names, or have your children name them.  Regardless, on the first morning, the elves should come with a note (see below).  

Day 1:  The Reveal (or so I hoped...)


I was so excited for the reveal of the Elves.  We chose the Monday after Thanksgiving.  Mostly because we were really busy over the weekend and our elves arrived that Friday.  We had just decorated our tree and hung up our new Mickey Mouse shaped wreath.  (We are a Disney family).  I thought that kids would notice the elves right away since they bugged me all weekend to hang up the wreath.  Well, I was wrong!  I checked in with my husband all day, "did the kids find the elves?"  I am a teacher and my husband works from home and cares for our kids. I came home and proceeded to keep quiet about their reveal. I had piece of paper hanging off the wreath and it was lit all day! Granted the kids had no idea that they elves were even going to become a daily part of their routine now.  Long story short, the kids never noticed the elves!  After they went to bed, I took a picture of the elves and decided to print it and include it with a note on our kindness elf day 2.  Needless to say, I was moving around 2 elves without names and unsure of where to put them so the kids would notice!  I did feel a tad bit defeated, but Day 2 seemed promising.

Day 1 Letter from the Elves 

I use A780-Deco Font since it is fun and whimsical.  I borrowed much of the wording from other Kindness Elve websites with notes from the elves ideas.
"Hello insert children's name(s)!
Merry Christmas!  Santa sent us from the North Pole to be your family elves.  We are not your regular elves for children who need help being good.  We are special KINDNESS ELVES because Santa knows you are always trying to be good. We are here to help spread Christmas cheer and love...  and we know  you both can help us.
Each night when you sleep we will try to think you ways we all can be kind.  Sometimes we'll be silly and sometimes sweet.   You'll have to find us each morning (because we freeze when daytime comes).  Please do not touch us or pick us up.  If you do, we'll lose our Christmas magic and get lost and confused. 
To spread Kindness today, please give us each a name.  After you name use, please have your Mom or Dad write our names here:
Boy Elf:______________________
Girl Elf:_____________________ 
We can't wait to report to Santa all the good you have done this Christmas Season!  Thanks for your kindness! 
Love, The Kindness Elves from the North Pole"

To continue reading see "Our Kindness Elves Day 2" blog.

This blog is an independent account of our Kindness Elves only.  This is not an endorsed site for any other websites mentioned.  






Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Stitch Fix #3 - November 2015

I have to say I was very excited for my fix #3.  I requested jeans since many of mine are old and worn.  Although I can't wear them to work, I live in jeans from 3:30 pm on and on the weekend.  Also, after searching around and reading other reviews I read how many women have received awesome denim through stitch fix.  Before I move on, remember Stitch fix requires a $20 styling fee that will be deducted from any purchases and a 25% discount if you buy all five items.  Anything you do not wish to keep, you send back in a prepaid shipping bag. So far I am 1 in 3 for purchasing all 5 items.  If you are inspired by my blog or if I help you in any way, please use my stitch fix referral code when you sign up! Thanks! :)

After opening my fix I and reading my note, I noticed that my stylist changed. This one was by Amy.  I am open to new stylists and there are many things about this fix I loved. As soon as I saw that I was sent jeans, a colorful shirt and this cardigan, I ran to try it all on.  I thought I might look like some of my pins on my Pinterest boards.   After this, I am going to have to revise some of my pins.


Liverpool Collen Straight Leg Jeans Size 12/31 ($78)

Liverpool Collen Straight
Leg Jeans
I am starting off this blog with the my most anticipated item, and boy was I let down big.  I am embarrassed to admit that I tried them on several more times than I want to admit since I really really wanted a new pair of jeans.  I am not sure what the sizing mistake was due to, but this is only fix #3 and I have only received and kept one other pair of pants.  Although I am above average in height (5'8"), my legs are not skinny at all.   These jeans fit like extra long jeggings.  I did absolutely LOVE the color, navy, and the stretchy texture, but they were to small.  Honestly, I am not even sure if the next size up would fit any better. I did include a picture that I know is not flattering so that it might help others out there with body types like me.  It goes without saying, these I returned.

Renee C Huebert Space Dye Open Cardigan Size L ($58)

Renee C Huebert Space Dye
Open Cardigan
 I really wanted to like the cardigan.  In fact, this is one piece that leads me to believe that the stylist did look at my Pinterest board.  When I put the cardigan on and showed my husband, I could see in his face this piece was not working.  The fabric is super soft, but it is very thin.  Much too thin for layering during the winter.  There is also a lot of fabric in the front.  That along with the length, was too much for me.  I have two toddlers and this is not a feasible piece to wear while up/down off the floor, carrying them, etc.  I also felt like it was more a maternity cardigan on me, rather than a flattering piece.  I did keep the Collen Straight Leg Jeans on in this picture.   I did love the pattern and the texture of the fabric.  Verdict: Returned.

41Hawthorn Rosa Tab Sleeve
V-Neck Blouse 

41Hawthorn Rosa Tab Sleeve V-Neck Blouse Size L ($58)

I love this shirt! It is comfortable, a great color and fits nicely.  After only three fixes, I already am a sucker for tabbed sleeve shirts.  I actually put in my note for the next fix to avoid polyester tabbed shirts.  I do worry that a shirt like this will be too lightweight for winter, but I can layer it with my asymmetrical cardigan from the last fix.  The sleeves are a perfect length to wear down or rolled up.  This is pictured in the two pictures above, but here is another to show off just the shirt.  It looks even better after I washed/ironed it.

Skies are Blue Destiny Pullover Sweater Size L ($54)

Everything about this sweater is me.  I really like the color for fall and winter and it has pattern that sets it apart from other sweaters I usually buy.  The material will also be warm as it is made out of acrylic.   This sweater will certainly be a go to weekend top or even a Friday at work.  I actually did not immediately decide to keep this though.  The prices are steep for me, but I don't know if I could find a sweater like this on my own for a significantly lower price.  Kept, without regret.

THML Nanette Dress Size L ($64)

This dress was a fun surprise. I like dresses for work since they are pretty much an outfit in themselves.  Depending on the season I need as little as a pair of flats and I'm ready.  The price was good for me with this dress as well.  By the time I add up the cost of pants, shirt, cami's, etc, from other stores, it usually is more than the cost of a Stitch Fix dress.  I also did not have a black dress in my closet.  The fabric is really soft and it is great that it has sleeves.  So far, both dresses I have been sent I have loved.  This was unexpected and a quick keep.





Overall thoughts about Fix #3

I rated this fix a 3 at checkout.  I did because I was really excited about getting jeans and they did not fit.  I guess this is where time makes your fixes better.  I requested that they send me jeans again and am crossing my fingers for next month. I am also going to evaluate my frequency of stitch fix after fix #4.  It is a bit hard on the bank account and from three fixes I have added ten new pieces!  How much more do I really need?  I do feel like the stylist did read my past comments, look at my shared Pinterest board and tried to include some uncommon items.  I tend to keep those I can't find much about searching the web.  For example, I did not find many reviews on the sweater, dress, and blouse I kept.  I do not want to look like every other stitch fixer out there.  For the next fix, I am looking for less synthetic materials and of course a pair of jeans.

Thanks for reading and if I helped you in anyway and you are thinking about joining Stitch Fix, I would be honored if you would use my referral code.  Thank you!

Would you like to keep reading? Click here for a review of my third fix.



Sunday, October 4, 2015

Stitch Fix #2 - October 2015

My second Stitch Fix finally arrived!

Before I begin, remember Stitch fix requires a $20 styling fee that will be deducted from any purchases and a 25% discount if you buy all five items.  Anything you do not wish to keep, you send back in a prepaid shipping bag.  So far I am 1 in 4 for purchasing all 5 items. If you are inspired by my blog or if I help you in any way, please use my stitch fix referral code when you sign up! Thanks! :)


Well, I should not say finally, since I scheduled it and new what day it was to arrive.  I was just very excited for this box since my first was so successful.  Before I opened this fix, I reminded myself that based on other reviews there may be pieces that don't fit or that I don't like (glad I did, but more on this later).  If I have been helpful for you and you would like to try Stitch Fix, please use my referral code. I would be very appreciative!


Opening the box is thrilling.  It sounds silly, but it is. I could not wait to see what my stylist sent this month.   Upon opening I found the clothes neatly stacked in two wrapped packages and immediately looked for my note from my stylist.  My stylist read my request and sent pieces to try with the Emer high waisted trouser and cardigans to match the shirts and dress from my first fix.  My reaction at this stack of clothes was mediocre.  The colors of all the pieces together seemed to clash a bit, but none-the-less, I must try them on and then go from there.  

Market and Spruce Alan French Terry Asymmetrical Zip Cardigan $68 (Large)
Casual look with
clothes from my wardrobe
I immediately saw this cardigan and threw it on as quickly as I could.  It really was love at first site.  The fabric is soft and comfortable.  It is medium weight so it will work almost all year round.  The cut is perfect and it can be worn in several ways and with almost anything.  Knowing I was going to keep this, I wore it the very next day shopping, an adventure I will discuss in my next post.

Paired with Barbacoa
Split Neck Blouse (Fix #1)
  
Paired with the Renesme Geo Cube Print
Faux Wrap Dress from Fix #1


Moni Abstract Chevron
Stud Detail blouse with
my own black pants


41Hawthorn Moni Abstract Chevron Stud Detail Blouse $58 (Large)
This was another item that I admit I previously googled in order to preview it before my fix arrived.  When I first saw this shirt I realized is was darker in color than the ones I found online in other reviews and I was not sure about the studs.  My husband jokingly said it reminded him of a couch.  Keeping to the rule of trying everything on, it became one of my favorite tops from both fix #1 and #2.  I do think it might be a little too short to wear with the Emer trousers, but it looks great with other pants I already own and will look great with jeans too.  The blouse is actually quite comfortable.  I did keep it.

The items from the fix I did not keep and why...

THML Armata Textured Cardigan $68 (Large)
I was a bit bummed when I saw this, since I was really hoping to keep both cardigans from this fix.  The color was not what I was looking for.  After trying it on, my husband's comment continued resonating, "you look like you gained 30 years."  I really did feel like an old disheveled teacher.  It did not take me long to decided to send this piece back.  It was just not for me. [It actually looks better in this picture than it did in person.]




41Hawthorn Presley Color Block Button-Back Sweater $68 (Large)
Not flattering at all button back on me.
Not the worst, but just
doesn't seem right.  
I was expecting this one in yellow based on my searches prior to receiving my shipment and was pleasantly surprised when I saw it was not.  The geek inside of me did immediately think of Captain Picard from Star Trek: The Next Generation.  I also thought I would never consider a sweater with button backs.  That seems to "in-style" with the teenage girls at school.  The button back, pattern, and color (pretty much the entire piece) were not flattering for me at all.  I must say though, the fabric was awesome! It was one of the most soft materials sent in my fixes thus far.  Easy decision: Returned.

Papermoon Locust Embroidery Detail Blouse $48 (Large)
When I opened my box, the bright blue of the blouse stood out and excited me.  I would like to branch out from the black/white and neutral colors I tend to gravitate to.  However, after putting the blouse on, I was underwhelmed.  The embroidery is only on the shoulders which just seemed to make my shoulders look larger and the length was too short.  The sleeves are shear, which actually did not bother me, but the elastic on them did.  This was another easy decision to return.


Stitch Fix #2 Final Review
I was impressed that my stylist read my request and included two long cardigans for me to try. I am in love with the asymmetrical grey one.  I like how it looks unzipped and it is comfortable when I do zip it up.  The two blouses were an attempt to fill my request for adding blouses that I can pair with the Emer trousers from fix #1.  The studded blouse I did purchase I will only wear with the trousers if I pair it with a long cardigan since it is not as long as I would have ideally liked. Looking at all the items together, it was a very mixed box without a set theme. I'm hoping the feedback I left for each item, especially those I returned, will help future fixes.  I wish I could say that my next fix is arriving soon, but even the two pieces I kept set me back $106 (totally worth it) after the $20 styling fee.  The lack of cream colored cardigan I was hoping for in the fix and the fact that they do not do shoes (I inquired about that) led me to a trip to a reasonably close outlet mall in which I will detail this account in my next post.

Thanks for reading and if I helped you in anyway and you are thinking about joining Stitch Fix, I would be honored if you would use my referral code.  Thank you!

Are you interested in my other fixes?
September 2015 - Fix #1
November 2015 - Fix #3
December 2015 - Fix #4










Saturday, September 12, 2015

Stitch Fix Box #1 - September 2015

I excited to be blogging about my first Stitch Fix box!  If you like to try Stitch Fix, please use my  referral code as I get a small discount on my next box.  I am also not a photographer but nonetheless, included some pictures.

Before I begin, remember Stitch fix requires a $20 styling fee that will be deducted from any purchases and a 25% discount if you buy all five items.  Anything you do not wish to keep, you send back in a prepaid shipping bag.  So far I am 1 in 4 for purchasing all 5 items. If you are inspired by my blog or if I help you in any way, please use my stitch fix referral code when you sign up! Thanks! :)

Stitch Fix box #1
Preparing for the first fix:  The best advice I could give someone starting out is to fill the style profile out honestly and use the note section to explain further sizing information. Take measurements, stand on the scale and be truthful.  I truly believe that filling out my profile as accurately as I could, helped make my first box so successful. That and my very small pinterest board that I shared with my Stitch Fix account.  I pinned past Stitch Fix items and styles that I liked and made comments on what I like or did not like.  For me, I am sure this helped with the colors chosen for my first fix.

Waiting for the first fix - Box #1: I must say it is exciting receiving your fix.  Before my box arrived I did have an idea of the items I would be getting and their cost from my account on their site once it shipped. While waiting for my box (which only took a few days from ship date), I could not believe I was going to try on a dress marked at $78, and almost $100 pants!  I also found that many of the items in my first box have been around for over a year and some were so popular that they were sold in the past.  I was not sure how to take that.  Was my first box going to be a quickly thrown together hodgepodge of trendy items? Did I just waste $20? Will receiving some of these popular items diminish the personalization marketed with this experience?  I obsessed over others reviews, googled the clothes that were coming.  I just could not wait to see my box and of course the delivery did not come until after 7 pm on my delivery day! (Please note the types of picture I am included are modeled after other Stitch Fix review and blogs. Many of which helped me with determining if Stitch Fix is for me.)

The Box - Stitch Fix Box #1
At first I could not believe 5 pieces of clothing fit in this tiny little box. They know how to make the most of their packaging, that's for sure!  I felt like a kid on Christmas morning when I opened the box.  The clothes inside were nicely wrapped with an envelope housing your personal note, style cards and ordering information.  Also included is a pre-paid return envelope for returns.  (From what I read, it is expected that you will return more items then you keep from each fix).


The clothing (oh, I am a size 10-12)
Margarete M Emer High Wasited Trouser $98 (large)
Trouser and Split Neck Blouse
At first, I was not sure what to think. They have no belt loops, zippers, buttons, or anything. Are they leggings or pants?  I also thought that there was no way they would fit.  But I was not about to break the cardinal Stitch Fix rule, TRY EVERYTHING ON, so I changed into the pants and my style world began to change.  They fit!  What? How could they? I am not a skinny jean person.  I had read many reviews of these pants and for the most part either women love them or hate them.  I am a bit concerned they may be too tight in my calf, and am concerned the waist band will stretch, but I was in love as how skinny they made me look.  My other concern is that the only shirts that look really awesome with them are the ones from my fix. But, this is a long term investment and change so my verdict: Keep.

Barbacoa Split Neck Blouse $68 (large)
This shirt I new the least about as not to many Stitch Fix reviewers out there have reviewed it.  Just
seeing the color (black and white) and the pattern, I was in love. I am guilty of all ready having other shirts and dresses in geometric black/white patterns, but nothing of this fit.  After putting this on with the included trousers and then with jeans (the closest ones I could find to those on the style card) I knew it was a keeper.  My husband also likes this one the best.  The biceps are a little snug (a complaint from other reviewers too), but after wearing it while deciding if I was keeping the pants it loosened up and I was comfortable.  I do need to wear a cami under it, but that does not bother me a bit.  Keep.


Tabbed Shirt
 Colibri Solid Tabbed Sleeve Blouse $48 (large)
This actually was my least favorite item when I first unpacked my box.  The green is great fall color, but nothing exciting, and it has one pocket. I don't wear blouses with pockets.  Sticking to trying it on, it is now my favorite item from this fix.  I immediately paired it with a black and white skirt I have owned for years but rarely wore due to not having a great to top to pair with it.   The shirt is comfortable and does not need a cami if worn in warmer weather.  The sleeves are hard for me to roll, but I am horrible at rolling any type of sleeve.  This blouse pair with the pants is when it really hit me that I have been buying the wrong type of clothes my entire life.  Keep!

Renesme Geo Cube Print Faux Wrap Dress $78 (Large)
I was secretly hoping to get a dress in my first fix.  I did not ask for one, but in my style profile I made sure to choose "a healthy mix of both" referring to pants vs dresses.  Dresses are great for mornings I have no time to fuss over an outfit and are comfortable.  Once I held up this dress I new it was for me.  First, it had sleeves!  I am tired of wearing cardigans with every dress I own to school since shoulders must be covered per the dress code.  Secondly, the color and pattern is perfect for fall and winter (the majority of the school year)!  The dress fabric is very soft, comfortable and a medium
weight.  This will be great with flats in the fall or tights, boots, and a cardigan in the winter.  Now all I need are the boots and the cardigan...  I do not mind the $78 for the dress.  In fact, this was one of the few items that fell into my targeted price ranges in my style profile.  After trying it on, I knew I was keeping it.  I am tall and this dress falls at my knees, a perfect length for a teacher.


Corinna Striped Dolman Top $48 (large)
This shirt, along with the trousers, have been very popular. Almost everyone who I read reviews on received these items (various colors) at some point in their fix career. I like the color I was sent but was worried about the horizontal stripes. It is my least favorite item in this fix.  However, the fabric is one of the most comfortable and soft fabrics I have ever come across (I don't get out to fancy clothing stores much)!  I am not sure I could wear it to school, unless it was a dress down day, but admit it would be a nice piece to keep for around town, weekend family functions, etc.   After a couple days of reflection of my fix and trying the clothes on for the hundredth time (when the kids were sleeping of course), I did keep this top.  But only because I really wanted the other four pieces and you get the 25% off discount for buying all five.

Conclusion
I am one of the few who have bought the entire 5 items in the first box.  Reasons this worked so well for me include filling out my style profile honestly, accepting the prices of the items before they arrived, and having no style sense at all.  These reasons and the need to look professional while being comfortable is what made my first Stitch Fix a success.  I can't wait for fix #2 (I am continuing with Stitch Fix for next month at least).  Now, I can actually go wash my new clothes and enjoy them!  I just hope my students recognize me ;)

Thank you for reading and I hope this helped you as so many other reviews helped me.
I hope you consider Stitch Fix, I know I was pleasantly surprised.

Feel free to tell me what you think too?  My picture taking needs work, I know that! :)

Are you interested in my other fixes?
October 2015 - Fix #2
November 2015 - Fix #3
December 2015 - Fix #4