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I must be honest and say that I was not a big fan of the Hacking Jacket when it first showed up on the website. The “longer, leaner silhouette” turned me into a non-fan. I paid no more attention to it…until today. I was finally able to check out the 2nd rollout of new arrivals at my local J Crew B&M. I really had no idea what to expect since there were so many new pretty things to look at online. I scheduled a time with my PS who put together some great outfits…again. Those pictures will be up soon.

The Charcoal was in my items to try on in the but I also saw the Grass in-store too. I asked my PS and she said my size (6) was already sold-out but once she saw the 6 in the Charcoal was a little snug, especially in the shoulders she went to check on the 8 in the Grass.

And she found it! The longer length is not as long as I expected and I do like the slimmer cut. The Grass color is really pretty and now I am intrigued to see the Midnight Ocean, Vibrant Flame and Heather Dark Grape.

What are your thoughts on the Hacking Jacket?

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I scheduled an appointment with my Personal Shopper at my local J Crew Saturday morning. Doors opened an hour early so people could see the new arrivals and use their reward card. I think this was across all B&Ms. I spent 2 1/2 hours in there! This is a picture heavy post with shoes, accesories, skirts, dresses, sweaters, blazers and jeans.

Martina Patent Wedges, #50472, Bronzed Clay, Size 7
These are not online that I could find. My PS said they were going to be in a Tortoise color/pattern as well. These fit TTS and the wedge heel does taper a little but it is still manageable to walk in.

Biella High-Heel Loafers, #49158, Warm Taupe, Size 7
Also come in Warm Brown and Black Leather and Getaway Green and Antique Violet Satin
These also fit TTS. Even though the heel height is 4 1/4 inches the platform helps make it more manageable to walk in.

City Mini, #50305, Bright Dahlia, Sz 6
Perfect Shirt in Leopard, #48474, Golden Hickory, Sz 6
Jackie Cardigan, #29350, Dark Slate, Sz M
The skirt is a pull-on style and has an elastic waist. The Bright Dahlia/Berry color is my favorite of J Crew. I have the Lolli pants in this color that I love. I wasn’t a fan of the Leopard shirt online but I like it after seeing it IRL. I think more so than the No. 2 pencil skirt. I think the Jackie tones down the print some.

Gilded Tweed Mini, #50648, Sky Blue, Sz 8, $128
I don’t see this online and it may be in-store only. The material is not as substantial and I expected. It’s pretty thin for a tweed. I’m not sure if the pencil skirt will be the same or a little heavier in weight. For $20 more you’ll at least get 5-6 inches more material. I really didn’t like the fit or feel of this mini. This is at my natural waist and pulling it down didn’t help as it rode back up when I walked. The colors in it are pretty with gold threading throughout the skirt. It does have an exposed back zipper. From the picture online the pencil skirt does not.

Origami Mini in Damask, #47460, Blue Pesto, Sz 8
Silkspun Sweater, #47846, Dark Turquoise, Sz M
Tippi Sweater, #46725, Bright Dahlia, Sz M
The print and material on this is not too fancy that you can’t dress it down. I also think it would be good to experiment with pattern mixing, in the same shades. Both of the sweaters are 100% merino wool and very bright in color, which I love. They fit TTS, especially if you are wearing it over another shirt, like one of the Perfect Shirts.

No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Leopard, #47322, Golden Hickory, Sz 6
Chambray Tuxedo Tunic, #49553, White, Sz XS
Tippi Sweater, #46725, Bright Dahlia, Sz M
This is a really long skirt for me. I think even if I bought the Petite size I would have to alter it in length. I almost felt like it should have been a true “wiggle” skirt with tapering to the hem, just due to the length. The color was not as vibrant as it is online, which is what others have been saying. It is cotton and unlined, which is fine by me. I do like this skirt but I think I will stick to the Leopard accessories that I have.
The Chambray Tuxedo Tunic runs big. The XS was tight in my arms but the Small fit a lot better. I like the Tippi in BDA with the skirt and would probably pair this with black patent heels to finish off the look.

Darla Dress, #49258, Faded Black Steel, Sz 8
Miller Motorycycle Boot, #28676, Black, Sz 7
The cap-sleeves are elastic which I do not like personally. The pattern is a railroad stripe. It is lightweight, fitted in the top and has an exposed back zipper.

Ticking-Stripe Derby Dress, #42775, Muslin Caspian Night, Sz 6 (I think)
Multistrap Belt, #50840, English Saddle, Sz M
Cute dress and perfect for the rest of my summer (which may last well into October!). The bodice is not too fitted and the skirt portion is lined. The belt is great and unlike the Tri-Buckle Belt, it is leather all the way around. If you are still looking for the Tri-Buckle Belt my store had 3 or 4 but I’m not sure what sizes. I love mine and have worn it several times this summer.

Safari Dress, Sz 6
It was a bit snug in the arms for me but loose through the bodice and skirt so I would say this is TTS.

Scarf, #50277 (same as Leopard scarf), Dark Turquoise, $65
Skinny Leather Belt, #50822, Bright Cobalt
Darlington Satchel, #48895, Bright Indigo (review here)

“On the Prairie” – Plaid Bayou Tunic, #49905, Baltic Blue, Sz S
Jardin Skirt, #48698, Dark Pewter, Sz 6
Belt – Unknown
Miller Motorcycle Boots
If I was on the prairie I would wear this. The tunic is the same fit as the Chambray Tuxedo Tunic, it runs small and the Small fit me fine. I think the Jardin skirt runs TTS. I have it in the Rich Purple.

Heirloom Lace Pencil Skirt, #39548, Indigo, Sz 6
Perfect Shirt in Suckered Stripe, #47414, Blue Tide, Sz 6
Tippi Sweater, #46725 , Warm Mustard, Sz M
This skirt came in Black over the summer, which is what the link is to. This color is Indigo/Navy and was in my store as a New Arrival. I’m sure they will have this color online in the next roll-out. I like the preppy look of the top with the lace skirt. The skirt fits TTS as I usually wear a 6 in JC pencil skirts.

Tippi Sweater, #46725 , Heather Dark Grape, Sz M
Boy Shirt in Quincy Tartan, #49044, Emerald Green, Sz 6
Marching Mini, #47324, Roasted Nutmeg, Sz 8
I am trying to stay away from the button-down shirts as I have too many that I need to wear but this one was hard to not buy with its lovely blues and greens. The skirt was ok but I didn’t like the 6 buttons and the wrap-style. You are covered if the wind takes the flap but I’d rather not chance it. There was also a green color in my store that I failed to get a picture of.

Silkspun Sweater, #47846, Toasted Honey, Sz M
Perfect Shirt in Indigo Floral, #48473, Indigo, Sz 6
Cafe Capri in Wool, #49398, Camel, Sz 8
This shirt seems too busy for me by itself but the sweater seems to tone down the print pretty well. The pants I love. They fit well and TTS. The length is not a crop or capri for me (I’m 5’2″) but I don’t mind that at all. They are not too bad with heels either. My store only had camel and black right now but should be getting a few other colors in their next shipment. I am eyeing the navy as well.

Emmaleigh Dress in Super 120s, #24155, Black, Sz 6
This is a gorgeous dress. I tried on the 8 which fit a little better in the bust for me but overall I loved it. Now to just choose a color.

Here it is completely styled.
Jackie Cardigan, #29350, Saddle, Sz M
Silk Leopard Scarf, #50277
Biella High-Heel Loafers, #49158, Warm Taupe, Size 7
Rigby Saddle Bag, #48296, Flame

Chambray Shirtdress, #47875, Blissful Blue, Sz 6
Chino Vest, #22560, SPR, Sz S, $98
Overlap Grommet Belt, #44414, English Saddle, Sz S
The tunic was ok until I belted it, which then hiked up the skirt and made it shorter. The vest is cute but not my style.

Matchstick Jean, #50499, Starlight Wash, Sz 30S
I like the fit of these. They seem a little looser than last years which did not fit me at all. The “short” length is still long on me.

Classic Flare Jean, #51329, Jezebel Wash, Sz 30
These are a great fitting jean but as you can see I would have to take at least 5 inches off. I am wearing the Biella heels and cuffed the jean under. I’d get a pair for heels (3 inches) and a pair for flats.

Tippi Sweater, #46725, Bright Dahlia, Sz M
Schoolboy Blazer in Wool Flannel, #48682, Heather Caramel, Sz 6
I don’t have a blazer this color and I think I need one. With the mild winters we have I prefer layering and adding a blazer rather than a bulky coat.

Tippi Sweater in Leopard, #47351, Sz M
I’m not sure about this. I think it’s either the dark “stripe” down the center or the two “lighter” areas down the front sides that bother me.

Crystal Bar Locket Necklace, #51496
(Sorry for the blurred photo.)

Fishnet Necklace, #52686
Silk Blythe Blouse, #37871, Black
A great necklace to jazz up a black or navy cashmere tee. I’m not sure how well it would stay/lay on the sides after moving around though.

Whew! You still with me? I hope so. What do you think of the items above? Anything catch your eye? And I bet you’re wondering what I bought. With 100 degree whether it’s hard to imagine Fall weather or clothes. Of course, you know my biggest Fall purchase was the Darlington Satchel but I did get a few things I tried on. There were others I added to my wishlist after these try-ons.

I was happy I scheduled an appointment with my PS. She had everything I would have brought to the dressing room all ready and styled together. Even if you get one or two pieces I would say that if you have the time, make a personal shopping appointment. I was glad I did.

Have a great day!

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I have been coveting the Proenza Schouler PS1 Medium since first laying my eyes on it. I love the bright colors it comes in, including the Tangerine, Violet and Raspberry Suede. But, alas, the $1500+ price tag is way too steep, even for this Louboutin-loving gal.

When J Crew has new season arrivals, I always go to the shoes and handbags first. After lusting over all the leopard shoes, particularly the Valentina and the Eddie Oxford, I knew instantly, at first sight, I would purchase the Darlington Satchel. At $278 it’s still a bit pricey but certainly better than $1500. I debated between the Honey Brown, a very practical, all-season color, and the Bright Indigo, a unique colored bag that not everyone would choose or have. In the sea of LVs on my side of town I prefer different and unique. I’m currently using a Salmon/Coral-colored handbag from Cole Haan my brother gave me for my birthday and get many compliments on it.

From the J Crew website: A twist on the classic schoolboy satchel that’s quickly become the signature carryall of our most style-savvy cohorts. Structural hardware and motorcycle jacket-inspired quilting up the cool factor, while functional design details (double straps stow an umbrella while hidden snaps grant easy access) balance style with substance. An interior front-wall patch pocket and a back-wall zip pocket keep pencils, cell phone and keys organized. 

I received this “Darling” satchel today and do not regret this purchase one bit. It’s just the right size for me, since I tend to overfill larger bags. From images I’ve seen online it is similar to the PS1 so let’s take a look.
It feels like opening a present when it comes in the dust-cover bag.

My first look.

Love! And the leather is soft.
Back view – Has a slim back pocket with a snap-magnet button. The PS1 has a back zipper pocket.

Bottom view – This is wear you can store your umbrella, according to J Crew. 
Unfortunately, I haven’t used one in a long time so it will go unused.

Side view of the Motorcycle Jacket inspired quilting. 
A unique feature that the PS1 does not have.
Adjustable shoulder strap

Open bag
Inside view – It has an interior front-wall pocket, probably where I’ll stash my sunglasses. The main pocket comes with the almost-standard two pockets on the side for cell phones and keys. It also has an interior zip pocket.

Snap-magnet closure so you don’t have to undo the straps. 
It also has a lock closure at the front.

Holding the handle
With the adjustable strap. This is not a remove-able strap like the PS1 has. 
You could tuck it inside the bag if needed or just let it hang.
I am very happy with my Bright Indigo color. I could not get a great shot of the color of the bag but it is a bit darker than the online picture. The first image is the closest IRL color. In the shadow it almost has a purple tone to it. Now that I’ve seen the bag up close and personal I am intrigued by the Black and Honey Brown but maybe in the Pursette, which is a smaller version and a cross-body bag. 
So what do you think? 
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On my last day of stay-cation I headed over to Anthro to make some returns and exchanges and try on some things while The Boy got his haircut.

Lunar Cycles Top, The Addison Story, Dark Orange, S, $88

Husband bought me this for my birthday in a Medium. It was just a little looser than I wanted so I tried on the Small which I like much better. With all the “wing-i-ness” of the sleeves the fitted the better, IMO. Exchanged sizes
In Flight Top, The Addison Story, Blue, Medium, $138
I’d size down to a Small so there was less fabric floating around. I love flowy/batwing/kimono style sleeves so I was drawn to this one but for that price I don’t think I’ll even purchase on sale. Pass

Cerro Bonete Top, C. Keer, Black, Small, $29.95
This was a sale item I tried on to replace the Indirect Route Top I received from Husband/The Boy for my birthday. That top was all sorts of wrong on me. Purchased/Exchange

Cissus Gingham Button-Up, Sanctuary, Green, Medium, $88
Love this one. Even for our hot summer temps I’d get it now. This was a good fit across the shoulders and chest and did not pull. Wishlisted

Aine Pencil Skirt, Cream, 6, $118
LOVE! I have no idea why I have been drawn to lace crochet this year but this skirt has a green lining that shows through. This is certainly a trend I am loving. The next picture doesn’t do it justice. And of course, pencil skirts are my BFF. I will size up to an 8 though as I was unable to zip this all the way up. Wishlisted

Fernery Top, Tiny, Blue Motif, Medium, $88
Another Love! The “cape” is sown to the top strap of the tank, which is super soft. I’d size down to a Small (third pic below) so the length on the tank was shorter. I do wish the “cape” was removeable. Due to the thinness/chiffonness of it, I would be afraid to take a seam ripper to it. Wishlisted

Wings!

Shape Suggestion Skirt, Porridge, Green, Small, $78
This is one of those midi-skirts that I have been trying to stay away from due to my height (5’2”) but I love this skirt….in BOTH colors. It does have an elastic waist which is why I could size down to a Small and probably even and XS, if I wanted. Wishlisted both

Blue

Cirque A-Line Dress…aka “I’m Stuck Dress“, Porridge, Size 8, $148
Oh, such a cute dress, but as one blogger said, this is a dress you couldn’t wear multiple times with the same people because the pattern so unique. Pass (sniffle, sniffle)

Contrasting Halves Dress, Gryphon, Cream, Medium, $228
This was the next dress after the Cirque Dress. I couldn’t get this over my chest so I didn’t even try forcing it. It has a back zip but only stopped at the waist, where the embroidery ended. Pass

Beaded Foliage Dress, Rina Dhaka, Red Motif, Medium, $228
I’ve been eyeing this dress since it arrived online. I think there’s too much fabric for me and because there’s a slip that comes with it, sizing down is not an option. It fit just right so a Small would be too tight. Pass/Off my wishlist
Around the Maypole Dress, Girls from Savoy, Red, 6, $158
I love the items by Girls from Savoy. This dress is no exception with the embroidery and flouncy skirt. Also, the back is elastic so there is no fear of getting stuck in this dress. This was a good size all around and sizing up would be loose in the chest. I have been a 6 in all clothes by Girls from Savoy. Wishlisted
Lattice Ring Dress, Tracy Reese, Black, Medium, $348
I was unable to zip this all the way up but I’m not sure if that’s the sizing around my chest or fear. Either way, I will go back and try this on to be sure. I like that it comes with removeable straps if you don’t feel like going strapless. Wishlisted

And the reason I didn’t buy some of those Wishlisted items above.
Gathering Breeze Dress, Lil, Green, 6 & 10, $258,
Handkerchief Vest, Sparrow, Pink, Small, $98
This dress was styled with this sweater vest and it looks cute together. Sparrow always has such unique sweaters.  The dress is lace crochet on top and jersey on the bottom. I am not one to wear my cowboy boots with dresses but add a cropped denim jacket and I just might change my mind.

Sizing – I tried on the 6 and was unable to zip it. I even had the SA try and she couldn’t zip it up. There wasn’t an 8 to try on so I asked for the 10, just to see if the 8 might work, depending on the loose-ness of the 10. Well, I must confess that the 10 was a perfect fit. If I had ordered the 8, I don’t think I would have been able to zip it up either. I’ll re-try it on in a few days to make sure but even the SA agreed the 8 probably wouldn’t work. I’m not sure if it’s the molded cups or the bodice but I’m not “runneth” over either in the 10. You can’t tell any difference in the length between the two sizes even though the 10 is two sizes up.  Purchase

Size 10

I know this is stupid but I have a personal issue with going past a size 8 or Medium. I just can’t do it. I will rarely try on the larger size. I see myself as a size 6 and have only recently (past 2 years) accepted size 8. I know sizing doesn’t matter because all brands and designers have their own version of a size 6/8/10 (J-you-know-who, anyone?) but I can’t seem to get past it. Stupid right? But, because this dress was so lovely and gorgeous I couldn’t pass it up. 
Have your eye on any of these? Tried any of these on?

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And she’s so simple and classic.

I stopped by the B&M and was a bit underwhelmed at the “new arrivals”. They did have the Mona Leather Pumps in Black and Taupe. I was able to try them on in black in a size 7. They fit TTS and have some light padding on the insole. The Taupe is a great neutral color IRL. I ordered the Taupe and the Suede in Wild Berry, one of my favorite J Crew colors.

One other online purchase this morning was the Jardin Skirt in Rich Purple. This is such a vibrant purple. I hope it’s the same IRL.

Any one else want to meet Mona?