Travel Fix: Pockets Required!

Photo courtesy of Stitch Fix

A few months ago I took my first trip to Asia. I was full of all sorts of emotions, from not knowing what to expect, wondering what I would eat, if I would be able to communicate with people, and what in the world should I pack! The first leg of my trip was to the Philippines, a place I never expected I would visit, but when works calls and an adventure awaits, you pack that bag and go. I knew that offices in the Philippines, particularly Manila, had some rules around dress code, and that shorts were apparently a no no. However, I looked at the weather report and I wondered how I would survive without shorts. So, I pulled up the Stitch Fix app and requested an emergency Stitch Fix travel fix with one BIG requirement, everything must have pockets!

If you’ve been reading my Fix posts, you know I love a dress with pockets, so I knew I had to request those, and I also told my stylist to throw in a skirt too, but only if it had pockets. Why was I pocked obsessed? Well, a girl has to carry her phone, clip her work badge on to something, and be able to carry other essentials of course!

Alright, enough back story, get ready for the Ultimate Pocket Fix from Stitch Fix!

#1 THML Andrea Textured Knit Dress
The first dress I pulled out was an solid black knit dress with a small black and white turtleneck. The fabric seemed pretty heavy, not super lightweight, so I was immediately concerned that I would be way too hot in this dress, especially with a high neck line. I tried it on, and found it was pretty comfortable, but the true test would be in the Philippines. I was happy to find the dress did indeed have pockets, but I felt the pockets were a little extra bulky so when I wore the dress it seemed to accentuate my hips, making them look bigger. Fast forward to the Philippines, and I pulled this little number out, and it seemed to hold up with the high humidity and 80+ degree temps. Win! It also worked well for going from day to night. After wearing the dress all day in the office, I then went out for a late dinner with a coworker/friend and I felt I looked dressy and appropriate for a nice evening out.

THML Andrea Textured Knit Dress – Stitch Fix
THML Andrea Textured Knit Dress – Stitch Fix

#2 – Daniel Rainn Estefany Lace Detail Split Neck Blouse
Next up was a super cute blouse by one of my favorites, Daniel Rainn. When I saw I received a shirt, it was a giveaway that a skirt was coming, since I asked for a matching top if a skirt was given. I absolutely love the color and pattern of this top. It screams summer, fun, and it’s perfect for traveling. Not only did this shirt not wrinkle during travel, but it kept me feeling cool and chic! The little birds make me think tropics, and I was in a pretty “tropical” area at times, so I loved how my stylist took notice of where I was going and incorporated a fun pattern to match. You’ll see this paired with the skirt in the next item below. Oh, and don’t forget to wear a nude colored bra with this top, it is a bit see through via the fabric and lace near the chest.

Daniel Rainn Estefany Lace Detail Split Neck Blouse – Stitch Fix

#3 – Liverpool Aislin Pencil Skirt
Before this Fix, I didn’t own a pencil skirt. I know, it’s practically a fashion sin, but I just never found one that I felt looked flattering. This Liverpool skirt changed my mind on the pencil skirt. Not only is the skirt cute, but it’s extremely flattering. If you’ve been thinking about trying out a pencil skirt, look no further. This skirt fits perfectly, without being too tight. Of course, it has pockets! This skirt zips and buttons up, allowing for a comfortable fit. Pair it with a fun printed top, and you’re ready to take on work or date night! The below outfit was a hit with my teammate/friend.

Daniel Rainn Estefany Lace Detail Split Neck Blouse and Liverpool Aislin Pencil Skirt – Stitch Fix

#4 – Truly Poppy Carlina Cold Shoulder Dress
A cold shoulder dress for a tropical climate? Yes! I’ve never owned a cold shoulder dress before, and in my last Fix post you saw me get my first cold shoulder top. This dress actually came first, I just decided to post this Fix in a more appropriate season (spring/summer) than when I received it (winter). I was a little nervous because there seemed to be a lot of sleeve situation going on, but I figured I’d give it a shot and see what it looked like on. I’m so glad I received this dress, not only is it a beautiful plum color, but it’s perfect for spring/summer and outings of all types. I added a sweater (occasionally) when I was in the office to help keep me warm from the AC, and although there’s a lot of sleeve action, I was able to neatly tuck everything in under a thin fitted sweater, a major plus. The back of the dress has a cut out, and is brought together by two big snaps. I didn’t have any issues with the snaps coming undone, but it can be a little tricky snapping things into place the first try, but you get used it!

I received tons of compliments on this dress while I was on my business trip, which is an added bonus!

Truly Poppy Carlina Cold Shoulder Dress – Stitch Fix
Truly Poppy Carlina Cold Shoulder Dress – Stitch Fix

#5 – Truly Poppy Crissie Linen Dress
Now you may say to yourself, didn’t I just see this dress. Close, but nope! I thought the same thing when I pulled out this dress. When I put on the Crissie dress the fit was immediately different. Both dresses from Truly Poppy were provided in the same size, but this one was significantly tighter, especially in the chest area, making everything look very unflattering. I was a bit upset because I was hoping this was going to be another winner that I could put in my suitcase for my big trip to Asia, but it just wasn’t going to cut it. I tried to see if I could exchange it for a size larger, but the checkout page said they didn’t have the size I wanted, so I returned the dress, left feedback in the open response section at checkout and called it a day.

Surprisingly, Stitch Fix contacted me a few days later to say they were able to get this dress in the next size up and wondered if I wanted to  try it out. I said “sure!” The dress came after my trip, but it fit great! This was my first time doing an exchange with Stitch Fix, and it went smoothly. I loved how proactive they were to find me a new size, it really made my day. While I didn’t have this item for my trip, I’m glad I have it now.

The back of this dress has a cute cut out, as does the previous Truly Poppy Dress. It helps keep you cool in humid weather and adds a little sass. Best part of course is the pockets! I also want to give a shout out for the scalloping at the neck line, it’s a nice added detail that makes this a fun option. If you’re going to wear a bra, make sure to pair it with a strapless bra that doesn’t have too thick of a band in the back, or it will show. Pair this dress with a light sweater and you’re ready for a Spring evening stroll. You’ll love how breezy the linen is!

Truly Poppy Crissie Linen Dress – Stitch Fix
Truly Poppy Crissie Linen Dress
Truly Poppy Crissie Linen Dress – Stitch Fix

Final Thoughts: While I may not have necessarily picked all of these items on my own if they were in store, I’m truly happy with the pieces I received. My stylist came through with my odd request of everything must have pockets. Thank you for delivering, Cassandra! If you’re a pocket in dresses kind of girl, you can’t go wrong with any of these pieces. My philosophy in life is that all dresses should have pockets, and this Fix has certainly spoiled me. Hope you enjoyed this Fix and that you found an item or two you’ll want to request too!

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Is it Spring yet!? Stitch Fix Spring Review

Image Courtesy of Stitch Fix

Disclosure: This post contains Stitch Fix Affiliate links, and I may receive compensation.

Winter has not gone away yet on the East Coast, even though Spring is officially here! Although it snowed this week, and there’s still more snow in the forecast, I couldn’t help myself and had to order a Spring fix, in hopes that it would make it really feel like the season was finally here. My goal for this Fix was to get some “Spring essentials,” whatever my stylist might think those are.

I didn’t have my regular stylist for this month, but a stylist named Cassandra who I’ve received another recent Fix from, but you’ll have to wait a bit to hear about that Fix. Spoiler, if you’re a pockets in dresses type of girl, you’ll want to keep an eye on this space! Now to this Fix…

#1 – Market & Spruce Liano Mixed Material Top
I’m a fan of tank tops, and of Market & Spruce, so I had a feeling this would be a winning combo for me. What I love most about the “tank tops” Stitch Fix has provided me over the years is that they elevate my style and find pieces that say me, but are more fashion forward or dressed up, which is great! I absolutely love this color combo! The front of this tank is super silky and divine, while the back is solid dark blue with a nice lace detail down the center. I love how this top can be dressed up or down and how the floral print, without being obnoxious, says Spring!

Market & Spruce Liano Mixed Material Top – Stitch Fix
Market & Spruce Liano Mixed Material Top – Stitch Fix

#2 – Level 99 Primrose Skinny Jean
You may have noticed in the above picture that I’m rocking some pretty cute jeans. Well, those babies are from Level 99. In a past post I discussed my love for purple pants and how I was excited to finally have a pair, but these beauties are absolutely perfect, and now my new favorite. It’s also amazing how well they pair with the top in my Fix. Purple is a must for Spring! These pants are perfect for my long legs, and are super smooth and sleek. The price is a bit steep, but it’s not the first time I’ve paid this much for a pair of Stitch Fix pants, however not a price I’d personally pay if I was out shopping in a store in person. Ah, the price for convenience!

Level 99 Primrose Skinny Jean – Stitch Fix
Level 99 Primrose Skinny Jean – Stitch Fix Review

#3 – Market & Spruce Jann Sueded Patch Open Cardigan
I love a cardigan. Not only are cardigans great to have year round, but they are a great staple for the office and cool Spring and Summer nights. I’ve got a few in my closet, but none quite like this Market & Spruce piece. What I love most about this cardigan is the interesting detail of suede right around the wrist and lower arm. It’s funky, unique, and fun. I’ve also found the suede “cuffs” to be useful – keeping my arms from sliding while typing at my desk, which may otherwise happen from how soft this cardigan is. The deep pockets are a nice added touch, and great for carrying around a phone, clipping on a work badge, or just keeping your hands warm. This is a keeper.

Market & Spruce Jann Sueded Patch Open Cardigan – Stitch Fix
Market & Spruce Jann Sueded Patch Open Cardigan – Stitch Fix

#4 – Daniel Rainn Dunleith Crochet Trim Knit Top
Now when I think Spring, I don’t think about the color black, but lo and behold I received a black top in my Fix. At first I was a bit surprised but after trying on the top, I can see why it was included. The top part of the top is crocheted and it really gives the top a light and feminine touch. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this top much because it didn’t scream “Spring,” but it’s super cute on, plus it gives me an excuse to pair it with a fun colored pant! Do note that since the top part isn’t solid fabric, your bra strap will show. I’d recommend a black bra or a nude color bra.

Daniel Rainn Dunleith Crochet Trim Knit Top – Stitch Fix
Daniel Rainn Dunleith Crochet Trim Knit Top – Stitch Fix

#5 – Skies are Blue Langlock Cold Shoulder Top
In the past I definitely wouldn’t have considered myself a cold shouldered kind of gal, but Stitch Fix is turning me into one! These stylists have a way with changing my mind about articles of clothing! The first thing that caught my eye about this top was the beautiful brightness of the top. The stark white with a colorful floral pattern makes for a perfect Spring (and Summer) piece. I was a bit nervous when I saw the cut of the top and the whole straps situation, but I figured I’d give it a shot and see how it looked on. Well, I’m sold! I love the delicate crochet detail at the bottom and how flowy and springy it looks on. Super comfy and super cute! Stitch Fix, you’ve made me become a believer in the “cold shoulder.”

Skies are Blue Langlock Cold Shoulder Top – Stitch Fix
Skies are Blue Langlock Cold Shoulder Top – Stitch Fix

Don’t leave yet! Have you heard of “Extras” by Stitch Fix? They now offer intimates like camies, bras, shapewear, socks and tights! I decided to give it a try and picked a nude bra as my “extra” of choice. The best part about “extras” is that you can add as many as you want to your fix, or none at all. You can also use your styling fee towards any extras you may purchase, so that’s a win win!

The bra I received was the Wacoal La Femme Bra in “tan.” I’m always on the hunt for a good fitting bra, and nude is definitely a staple that every woman should have. Things seem to fit ok, and it’s already replaced my go to nude bra. I might have to check out some of the other extras available next time!

Wacoal La Femme Bra – Stitch Fix extras

Final Thoughts – This was a 5/5 Fix for me. Sure it wasn’t the most “springy” or colorful of Fixes I’ve received, but the pieces were all solid, and definitely matched my style. I love how most, if not all my pieces can mix and match with other items from this Fix, making styling a breeze! I’m already planning out my Summer Fix request, and I think I’m going to be brave and ask for something I’ve never tried before – stay tuned!

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Easy Acrylic Painting

One of my favorite hobbies is painting. My interest started with acrylic paints, but nowadays I have a strong love for watercolor painting. Recently, I decided to go back to my acrylic painting “roots” and get out some stress creating a simple flower design, just painting petals.

What you’ll need:

  • Water (to clean brushes)
  • Brushes
  • Acrylic paint (minimum 3 colors)
  • Small canvas

You could use a stencil if you wanted to create the pedals/leaves, but I just free handed everything.

Check out my time-lapsed video below.

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Crazy Cotton Candy in Asia

When I was in Asia, there was one food related thing on my bucket list, and that was to get a crazy shaped fun cotton candy. Cotton candy in the US is simply not as exciting or shapely as it is in Asia.

I found a cute cotton candy stand in the Venice Piazza Grand Canal Mall while in the Philippines, and had to check it out!

Appearance
The cotton candy met my expectations. It was cute and fluffy, but once I walked outside to cross the street to get to the office, it deflated really quickly!

How did it taste?
Unfortunately, not as tasty as it looked! I don’t know how to explain the flavor but it wasn’t sweet or similar tasting to traditional cotton candy here in the US. I also wasn’t a huge fan of the facial features being made of seaweed, which I definitely didn’t want to eat.

Check out my video below, and feel free to subscribe on YouTube 🙂 I’ve got many more videos on their way!

I also spotted some massive volcano cloud like cotton candy treats while in Harajuku in Toyko!

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Travel Tips: Manila, Philippines

I just got back from my first trip to Asia! My first stop was in the Philippines. If you’re looking for tips or info on traveling to the Philippines, particularly Manila, check out my latest video!

I’ll be sharing more of my tales here soon!

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