A Sprinkle of Life

Stitch Fix Summer Review – 2020

June 21, 2020 No Comments

It has been a long time since I’ve done a Stitch Fix review. I took a break from the company for a while for a few reasons. First, I kept getting bounced between stylists and it just didn’t seem like I was finding my match like I had a couple of years ago. Second, I didn’t really need a ton of new clothes, and three I just kind of fell out of it after the Affiliation program seemed to disappear without mention.

I substituted Stitch Fix with a rental service, Infinitely Loft, which I’m still using today. However a few weeks back I decided hey, I’m stuck at home, Summer is just about here, why not see if I can get some items from Stitch Fix to update my warm weather wardrobe.

My request this time around was for rompers, a dark washed non-distressed pair of jean shorts, and a dress or two. When I received my box however, what I had originally hoped to receive was not provided. Reading the stylist note I was a little disappointed to hear they didn’t have any summer rompers available, and hearing about the items pulled for me left me wondering if this box was worth it or not. Thankfully, I was fairly surprised by the items I received once I tried them on and gave them a chance.

Item #1 – Skies are Blue Pavlina Embroidered Cactus Knit Tee
Price: $44.00

I don’t own a ton of tshirts or short sleeved tops, unless they are free ones I’ve gotten from work as swag or are branded for my company. So, it’s always good to find an option here and there that is a bit more coverage than my beloved tank tops and I can wear on those warm but not dreadfully hot summer days.

What I liked about this top was the fun stitched cactus pattern. The pattern is only the front, which is ok, but the top might be cuter if the pattern went all the way around. I also enjoy that the color combo with this shirt is one of my favorites, navy blue with white. To me, that color combo says summer since I’m really into nautical or preppy styles like that. The fit is ok, not tight, slightly loose, and the neckline cut is flattering.

Item #2 – Just Black Romeo Distressed Cuffed Frayed Hem Denim Short
Price: $58.00

This item is pictured above on me in the first item review.

Just reading that title and I’m already thinking there are two words in there that do not go with what I requested in this fix – Distressed and Frayed. Taking a closer look, the distressing and fraying isn’t too terrible. There’s no actual holes cut out of the shorts, and they don’t look that bad. The wash is dark, which does fit with what I was looking for.

In terms of how they fit, they are a larger size than I would have purchased in store, and they are a bit looser than most of my shorts I own. I figure they might tighten up in the wash. But at least the looseness is comfortable and not drooping off of me, but still I probably would have prefered a size down to be my regular pants size.

Item #3 – Threads 4 Thought Arias Twist Back Knit Top
Price: $54.00

At first look, I’m not the biggest fan of this print or top. It’s nothing special, doesn’t do anything great for me or my body, and I feel the floral is a bit frumpy, maybe better for someone who’s a little older. The colors aren’t bad, but overall it isn’t a top I’m super thrilled or excited about. However, like I said earlier, it’s good to have a few short sleeved tops in one’s wardrobe. I decided to keep this top because it was cheaper to keep it than return it. The fabric is a little unique, it doesn’t feel like a usual knit fabric, it’s kind of silky and almost like a wicking material. Overall, it’s ok, but not really my cup of tea.

Item #4 – Market and Spruce Britta T-shirt Dress
Price: $64.00

T-shirt dresses can make me a little nervous. The cuts aren’t the most exciting or flattering, and I’m always worried it’ll cling to my stomach or make me look a little strange.

What I like about this dress though is the coloring, it’s a white with blackish blue stripes that once again make me think of a preppy or nautical style. The dress itself is also really comfortable. I could definitely see bringing this on a beach vacation, or just going around in the summer. It’s cute and fun. The best part is that it doesn’t cling to anything, and while t-shirt dresses look boxy, and it does look a bit like that in some photos, I don’t actually mind. It’s a really easy dress to just throw on and head out the door in, and who doesn’t need that during quarantine or the summer months?

Item #5 – Kaleigh Rochelle Knit Jumpsuit
Price: $58.00

I’ve never owned a jumpsuit, at least in the past 20 year I haven’t, but a jumpsuit is basically a romper just less summer heat and humidity friendly with pants instead of shorts. When I pulled it out of the box I was worried about what the length of it would be, and how it would sit on my body. Would the proportions work? Would I look silly?

Well, let me tell you, this jumpsuit might give me the disco fever and feels, but I actually kind of love it. I definitely didn’t expect to like it, but I fell in love. Perhaps because it’s so different from things I wear, and that it’s kind of a little out there. What’s wrong with spicing it up a little with something a little unique and flashy, haha.

My boyfriend may think I look a little silly, and I came out of the bedroom from trying it on doing a disco dance, but it made me smile and that’s what you look for in clothes, isn’t it?

I should note, this jumpsuit is appropriately long, but not drag under your feet long. My style card showed wedges as the perfect shoe for this outfit, and I recommend them too. You’ll get just enough lift to make this length work great. I should note I am 5 foot 5, so if you’re shorter than that, this might be a hard sell for you since the pants are full length.

Review Summary: While I didn’t get all the items I wanted, and it wasn’t my most favorite fix of all time, I was pleasantly surprised by some of the items in this box, and decided to keep everything since it was cheaper that way with the discount for buying everything. I still wish I got an actual sleeveless romper or flowy dress for the Summer, but maybe next time it’ll be meant to be.

Next up: I’ll be reviewing some of the “shop your looks” options that you can now get from the Stitch Fix app. I’m looking forward to trying this option out instead of requesting a full on fix. Let’s see how it goes!

Until next time, stay healthy, happy, and safe out there! Happy Summer!

Want to give it a try, use my referral code for $25 off!

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30 Crafts to celebrate being 30

March 12, 2020 No Comments

As some of you may know, I celebrated the big 3-0 birthday this January. Ringing in a new year with a new decade of my own. So far, so good. No complaints.

While so many people imply 30 is a scary year for women, it shouldn’t be. I’m starting to feel a bit more like an adult. Not sure when I’ll ever fully feel grown up and be all “yes I am an adult, let’s do this thing,” but hey that’s ok.

I originally wanted to create a list of “30 before 30” things I wanted to do, accomplish, experience, etc before my birthday came around, but I failed at that. 2019 was kind of a crap year for me. There was lots of stress, the loss of one of my closest and precious relatives, work madness, event planning, etc. But just because I didn’t accomplish those 30 things, or even come up with 30 (lols), doesn’t mean I can’t still tackle some of those items and “check them off” the list of Katie. One thing I’m still of the mindset I want to do is get a piercing. Now, I got my ears pierced (one hole each ear) at the mall when I was like 7. It was terrifying. I don’t do needles. Lucky me one of my holes closed up, and my father decided he’d re-pierce my ear for me with a piercing gun he purchased to do his own ears (we’re a special family). That was horrifying as well. Yet, here I am saying I want to get my cartilage pierced. Will I do it? I don’t know, but there’s been a thread at work amongst a bunch of women recommending piercing places in the city. One looks good, and even has this awesome lightning earring that makes me feel like I’ll be a Katie version of Harry Potter. The earring costs around $400. I may be crazy. I’ll keep you posted. Ok, I’ve rambled, on to the topic of this post.

I’ve been really into crafting, creating, and painting lately. So, from this point on I’m challenging myself to create 30 “things” this year. Luckily, I’ve already got a good start since I’ve subscribed to a watercolor painting box, but I won’t stop there. I’m hoping to knit some stuff, add to my cande inventory, watercolor more, make some homemade catnip toys, sew some pillows, and make some shell art.

I hope you’ll join me on my journey. I plan to capture the crafting experience here. If you like cats, candles, watercolors, and shells, you’re in the right place my friend.

I’ll leave you off with some items I’ve recently started playing around with.

Getting artsy and crafty makes me happy, fills up my weekend, and gives me something to do that’s uniquely me. I can’t wait!

I’m also going to make an etsy store for fun. If anyone ever wants an infamous “Candles by Katie” candle or a cute watercolor (not a print), feel free to take a peek.

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Infinitely Loft Review #3

March 7, 2020 No Comments

It’s time for another Infinitely Loft box review. It’s been a while, which means I’ve had several boxes come and go, but I wanted to share one of my more recent rentals.

Item #1 was a multi color knit sweater. It was soft, comfortable, and a great length for wearing over leggings. I returned it because I’m not a huge fan of wearing tops with bright reds it it (hard to tell with the lighting here). As a redhead, I try to be cautious with my clothing color choices.

Item #2 for this review is a front waist tie up sweater. It was cute, I wanted to love it and keep it, but when I wore it all day I found it to be a bit itchy. Not overly itchy where I wanted to pull it off, but I could tell there was wool in the fabric blend. When I’m looking for sweaters, I want them to be itch free, soft and cozy. While this option was different with the tie in the front, it wasn’t a purchase item for me.

Some of my other most recent observations have been around sizing and fit. I’ve found a lot of the more flowy tops and some of the sweaters are tending to run a bit big. Both sweaters above could have been a bit more tailored.

When I pick out items for my closet, the model in the photos seem to be in tops that are fitted closer to the body. I’ve been getting size small in all tops, but I’m starting to wonder if I should try XS in some items that seem like they might be a bit baggier. Other tops that aren’t knit seem to fit as expected in size small.

Finally, for item #3, I’m super pumped to share that I received an item I’ve had on my priorities list for a couple of months now, a faux leather biker-esque jacket. I felt so cool when I put it on the first time.

And just because, I had to do a fun photo shoot with my boyfriend’s lightsaber. I mean, who could pass up on a lightsaber!? Don’t mind my messy art station.

Take note of the animal print top, a rental item I have in my possession right now! It’s short sleeve, slinky, and so much fun. I might just have to purchase it to go with the jacket that I of course had to keep!!!

I’m still thoroughly enjoying my rental experience with Infinitely Loft, and I’m anxiously awaiting spring weather so I can get some of the cute rompers and sleeveless tops I’ve put on hold!

In total, I’ve probably purchased and kept around 6 items. I’m sure with the upcoming seasons I’ll be using this service to update my spring and summer time wardrobe.

If you want to give Infinitely Loft a spin too, get $20 off your first box here!

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Infinitely Loft – Wardrobe game changer?

January 28, 2020 No Comments

It’s been a few months since I signed up for Loft’s clothing rental service, Infinitely Loft, so I figured it’s time to give you an update on what’s been going down and how I’ve found the service.

My 5th month using Infinitely Loft is coming to a quick close. As I look back on my inbox, it looks like I’ve received roughly 14 boxes, with one set to ship out to me this week.

I have to say, I’ve enjoyed the service, and found it to be a great value. Most boxes have been a hit. There was maybe only 2-3 boxes that had items that weren’t great for the current season or some items weren’t as I had hoped (i.e. strange pair of leggings that felt and rolled up more like panty hose).

It took me a while to realize that if I didn’t want non-seasonally appropriate articles of clothing from my “closet” I had to use the “Hold” feature that’s hidden via a drop down for each item in your closet. Hold apparently means I want this, but not right now. Now I know 🙂

My latest box was full of long sleeved tops and sweaters perfect for a New York/New Jersey winter. I almost thought about keeping the fox sweater, but figured I’d hold out for something more must have in a future box. For those wondering, I’ve bought around 4 items total from previous boxes. If you decide to purchase something, you get a really great discount of at least 50% off the retail price, making snagging up a few items hard to pass up on. Below you can see my latest rental of cozy tops.

Floral V-Neck Blouse in Whisper White – Loft

Luxe Knit Fox Sweater in Neutral Multi – Loft

Striped Pocket Cowl Neck Sweater in Forever Navy – Loft

I’ve been favoriting some tops that must be super popular (animal print galore) because I haven’t received any of the ones I was really dying for. We’ll see if any of them show up, but I expect that if something is super popular in stores, Infinitely Loft likely has less to rent out, but that’s just a theory. However, I’ve been happy with 95% of the pieces I have received, so it’s not a major issue for me yet.

Getting dressed each week and figuring out what’s available to wear has certainly become a lot easier with Infinitely Loft. If I like all 3 pieces I’ve gotten for a particular week, I’m going to have an easy work week of outfits, which is super cool. It’s definitely taken away a lot of effort to decide what to throw on, what haven’t I worn too recently, etc.

For me, the sweet spot of getting boxes when I want them, aka the start of a week, is to return my previous box around Thursday. This usually, but not always, ensures I’ll get my box Saturday-Monday. My past couple of boxes due to travel and holidays have arrived at the end of the week, which is ok, but I’d prefer to use my rentals for work days than weekend days.

I’m looking forward to keeping up with my rental subscription, with no plans to cancel in the foreseeable future. It’s made my life easier and it’s always fun to see what’s coming next. I’m personally excited to see what Spring fashion starts popping up in the next few weeks.

Happy renting!

Want to give it a try, and get $20 off your first box? Sign up here!

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Reading Challenge Recap and 2020 goals

January 4, 2020 No Comments

Another year of reading has come to an end. Every year since discovering Goodreads, I’ve been pushing myself to take on a yearly reading challenge. This past year my goal was to read 20 books, the same goal as the previous year. I’m excited to announce that I surpassed my goal, hitting a new record of 23 books in 2019! The last couple months were a bit slow going reading wise, so I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it, but I picked up some spellbindingly good books that pushed me over. Let’s take a peek at my Goodreads report.

Looking back, I read a lot of great books this year. During some of my longer bouts of travel, I took to reading on my kindle, and solely only free books I could download. Surprisingly some of those free books were my favorite can’t put this book down kind of reads.

If you’re looking for some quick reads that will have you fully consumed in the plot, check out “In the Dark” and “The Vine Witch.” Looking for a good cry? Anything by Mitch Albom will get the water works going, and I mean ugly kind of crying.

As 2020 is here and slowly underway, it’s time to get ready for another year of reading. Since the year is 2020, I figured I’d keep the goal at 20, to be all symbolic and everything, but ideally I’d love to hit 25. I’ve been telling myself that 2020 is going to be “the year of Katie,” especially as I get ready to turn 30 in a few days. With that said, I’m not sure how much free time I’ll have for reading because I plan to tackle new adventures, travel the world, and learn some new hobbies, but we’ll see where this year takes me.

One reading goal I really want to tackle is re-reading Harry Potter. My significant other and I hope to purchase a house this year, and I’ve been dreaming of having a Harry Potter home warming party, so I’ve got to re-read the books for some extra magic!

Happy reading!

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