This week, I’m here to talk about my first Stitch Fix, and to share some guidelines I’ve created for myself as I rebuild my wardrobe from scratch.  Since this was my first Fix, I didn’t really know how it would work out.  I loved getting a box of goodies (who doesn’t), and I LOVED not going to the mall.  But I was a little bummed that I didn’t like everything.

Here’s what I got:

• 2 jersey knit tops–one with a cowl neckline, and one patterned dolman sleeve top
• 1 patterned knit skirt
• 1 burgundy “fit & flare” dress (Winner!)
• 1 gold bracelet

 

The dress was adorable.  Everything else was just…meh.  But I had a realization:  In my Style Profile, I never mentioned that I don’t like knits!  Its something I don’t think about when I shop for myself, because I don’t LOOK for knits (unless they’re chunky sweaters, then I’m all over it).  So after returning my items, I updated my profile.

In the end, I liked and kept only one item.  I know, whomp whomp, right?  But I’m going to stick with it!  Here’s why:  It’s like meeting a new friend, and then asking her to go shopping for you.  My Stitch Fix stylist doesn’t know me yet!  Sure, she has a basic idea of my general style, but as she gets to know my likes/dislikes, each Fix will get better.  And if we become besties, I may never have to enter a shopping mall again. (Fingers crossed.)

In the meantime, I still need to rebuild my wardrobe.  I’ve been thinking a lot about style and function.  I want to get dressed without having to think too much about it.  I don’t want to “do” my hair.  But I still care about my appearance.  I’m not ready to embrace yoga pants (although let’s be real, I wear them all the time).

So here are my new Wardrobe Rebuild Rules:

• Affordable:  most items must cost less than $100.  I would say “all”, but I’m willing to cross (slightly) into 3 digits for quality staple items like a handbag, a wool coat, or maybe a basic cashmere sweater.
• Adaptable: can be dressed up or down, and suitable for at least 2/3 of these scenarios: Work, Play, or Night Out.
• Reasonable: No skyscraper heels.  No skirts that threaten to flash panty.  I mean…was that ever ok?
• Presentable: Even if I only have time to roll out of bed and throw something on, that should not be apparent to anyone else.  Why?  Because the day that I go to Target in rumpled clothes and no makeup, is inevitably the day I’ll run into someone I know.
• Stylish:  As a seamstress, designer, and vintage enthusiast, I want my new wardrobe to still reflect my eclectic style.  Minimal Eclectic?  Let’s make that a thing.

 

I’ll receive my next Fix next month.  Until then, I’m checking out the Everlane Home Try-On (I’m in love with their affordable, quality basics), and I’m thinking about snagging one of these Strawberry blouses from PopBasic.  I’ll keep you posted on my progress!

Last weekend, I took my son to the bookstore for a post-illness treat (a book and a new toy).  He was getting over the flu, and after a few days holed up on the couch we needed a little sunshine and a change of pace.

On our way back to the car, I caught a glimpse of myself in a window reflection.  I was mildly horrified.  Tired eyes.  Unbrushed hair.  Basic tshirt and jeans.

Who the hell is that??

I used to LOVE getting dressed.  I worked for several boutiques in my 20s, so it was kinda part of the job.
I teetered around in platform heels and artfully “mismatched” pieces.  I took on styling clients.  I designed window displays.  Work was about inspiring others with the art of fashion.  T-shirts and jeans were strictly for behind-the-scenes.

Then I got a job in a very casual corporate office.  I bought flip-flops.  I wore jeans.  I got lazy.  When I was pregnant, I rallied.  Maternity dressing was surprisingly fun!  I wore tons of cute dresses.  I even wore heels…at least until I hit 8 months, when my feet became unrecognizable marshmallows.

I knew I was going to breastfeed, but as a newbie I had no idea what that meant in sartorial terms.  Have you SEEN the nursing wear that’s available?  It’s a nightmare of frumpy jersey tops.

And so it happened.  My fun, eclectic 20’s wardrobe got smooshed to the back of the closet to make room for…?

Nothing.  Crap.  Frump!  T-shirts and basic cardigans.  And that’s where I am today.  The worst part is, I KNOW BETTER!

So this week, I FINALLY took action.  I lugged an Ikea bag full of old clothes to Buffalo Exchange.  I packed a Balikbayan box full of MORE clothes to send to my cousins in the Philippines.  I prepped a rack full of vintage pieces to sell on Etsy.

My closet is bare.  It’s kind of exciting.  But now what?  I don’t really have time to go shopping.  Well, actually…I really really hate going shopping.  There, I’ve said it.

Stitch Fix to the rescue!

I’ve been hearing about this service for about a year now, and I’m pretty excited to finally try it out.  My first Fix is arriving next week, so after I get it I’ll be sharing with you what I got, what I kept, and why.  I’ll also share my thoughts on a functional mama wardrobe that is NOT frumpy.

If you’ve tried Stitch Fix already, I’d love to know what you think of it.  And if not, I’ve added a link over to the right so you can try it with me!