Stitch Fix Review #3

Sad news.  Most of the items in my box didn't work for me this time around:(  I had the same stylist as my past two fixes, and I feel like she tried to listen to what I asked for in my note that I wrote her.  I asked for some things to wear on our beach trip and I specifically requested distressed denim, because I have been wanting some for a long time.  Even though it wasn't as successful as my last fix, I still feel like I learned a lot about my personal style through the process.

Some quick facts about Stitch Fix:

-The styling fee is $20 per fix.  The $20 is deducted from the price of any item(s) that you purchase in that fix.

-You can specify your price range for the items that you receive.  You can also specify how often you want to receive a fix.

-You will receive 5 items that are hand-picked for you by your stylist, using the style profile that you will fill out upon signing up.  You can decide to purchase them all, just a few items, or to send them all back if you don't want to keep any of them.

-You have 3 business days to choose what you want to keep and send back what you don't like.  They give you a prepaid shipping envelope that you can just pop in your mailbox (so easy!).

-If you choose to keep all 5 items, you get 25% off your entire order.
-You can earn $25 in credit for every friend that uses your link to schedule their fix.  Its a win-win!

My Fix:

Lexia Distressed Skinny Jean and 41 Hawthorn Filbert 3/4 Sleeve Popover Blouse

These jeans were a little too small.  I have been losing weight and I wasn't sure what size to put in my style profile, but I think they may run a little small.  Also, they were WAY too expensive for me.  This was a good learning opportunity for me and my stylist because I made sure that I let her know that I won't pay that much for jeans:) Ever. 

I liked the way this top looked and fit, but I am not a fan of plain white shirts.  Plus, I felt like the style was a little too stuffy for my beach trip.

Verdict: Sent back.

Sweet Rain Jefferson Overlay Blouse

The pattern on this shirt was SO cute.  I loved the colors, and I specifically asked for shirts with cool back details, so my stylist really tried on this one.  However, one problem with this shirt was that it was too small.  The bigger problem was that it was sheer in the front and it had to be worn with a tank top underneath.  The tank top made the back detail look really strange.  It just didn't work.  I wish the pink underlay would have been on both the front and the back.

Verdict: Sent back.

Skies are Blue Calvin Halter Blouse

When I saw that I was getting a halter blouse in my fix, I was a little worried.  I mean, this girl isn't wearing a halter top unless its on a bathing suit.  Fortunately for me, I discovered that this is not a traditional halter and I learned that I really like this style of top.  This shirt was a great price, excellent quality and fit really well.  Unfortunately, I did not like the Asian-inspired pattern and the v-neck enough to keep it.

Verdict: Sent back.

Fun2Fun Alannah Henley Blouse

This top was pretty, and it fit really well.  I liked it, but I didn't LOVE it.  It was a good price, so I kept it so that I wouldn't lose my styling fee.  I have listed it to sell, so let me know if you are interested!

Verdict: Kept, but listed to sell.

I know.  Whomp whomp.  But you know what?  I'm not discouraged.  I am learning that part of what Stitch Fix is all about is helping you find your personal style.  Even though I struck out on this fix, I am still really happy with what I learned about my style in the process.  I am ready and excited for my next fix, which is coming in a couple of weeks!

What did you think?  Did I make the right choices?

Want to give it a try?  To get your fix, click here!

Embracing Imperfection

When the hubs and I first moved into our house, we didn't have very much furniture.  In fact, we had a Carolina Panthers tailgate chair in our living room for quite a while. 

My cousin Lexie will really love this pic I snapped of her in the Panther chair circa 2011.

 Then, we bought a leather couch and paired it with two pink chairs from my old apartment to save money.  My biggest problem with this space (other than the girly chairs) was that the furniture was uncomfortable and couldn't seat a lot of people. At the time, it was so frustrating not to have things just the way I imagined them and I have to admit, the struggle continued as we added years to our time in this house.  

Eventually, we did get furniture that fit our style and was a little more functional.  My old apartment was very girly and shabby-chic.  I tried to use the same pillows and wall decor to save money, but soon grew tired of all the floral and frills.

 Lately, (especially with the addition of our wild one-year-old), I have been trying to just stop and appreciate things the way they are.  Realistically, things will never be considered "finished" or "perfect" when it comes to decorating, because life happens.  And I'd rather live in a cozy, comfortable house than a perfect one anyway!  Now, that doesn't mean I've stopped changing things.  It just means that I'm working on embracing the imperfections:)

Our living room now.

My gallery wall is a work in progress.  I am constantly searching for meaningful and interesting pieces to add to it.

 

 Tips to Embrace Imperfection in Your Home:

1. Recognize and accept the stage of life you are in and how it will affect your decorating.  For example, if you have a small child, you may have to deal with black foam corner covers on your coffee table for a while.  If you are renting, you may not be able to paint the walls the color of your dreams right now. 2. Brainstorm solutions for the things that bother you the most.  If you work from home, but you don't have a home office, you may be tired of the papers strewn all over your dining table.  Try turning a dining room dresser or cupboard into a "catch all" space for your work and at least you will have a place to put it all at the end of the day or if you have company.  It may not be ideal, but it can work for now! 3. Know that some things are worth the wait.  Most of the decorating decisions that I regret the most were a result of me just wanting to finish a project, so I rushed and ended up with something that I hated.  Don't do this to yourself.  Wait, think, compare, and make wise choices. Your house and your wallet will thank you.

 I would love your input!  What are some areas where you have learned to embrace imperfection in your home?

    

Stitch Fix Review #2

I confess.  I totally stalked the mailman waiting on my fix to get here this month.  I had the same stylist as last month, and she totally delivered.  Read on to check out what was in my box!

Some quick facts about Stitch Fix:

-The styling fee is $20 per fix.  The $20 is deducted from the price of any item(s) that you purchase in that fix.

-You can specify your price range for the items that you receive.  You can also specify how often you want to receive a fix.

-You will receive 5 items that are hand-picked for you by your stylist, using the style profile that you will fill out upon signing up.  You can decide to purchase them all, just a few items, or to send them all back if you don't want to keep any of them.

-You have 3 business days to choose what you want to keep and send back what you don't like.  They give you a prepaid shipping envelope that you can just pop in your mailbox (so easy!).

-If you choose to keep all 5 items, you get 25% off your entire order.

My fix:

Kut From The Kloth Troy Drape Vest

Oooooooh this vest.  I requested an army cargo vest, and this was different from what I had in mind, but it was honestly even better than what I was thinking.  The fabric is light enough that I can wear it layered over brightly colored shorts and a striped tee this summer, or paired with a sundress.  It will also be really easy to transition it to fall.  

Verdict: Kept. Duh.

41 Hawthorn McAdams Beaded Neckline Blouse

At first glance I did not think I would like this shirt.  I tend to wear more cool colors than warm colors.  After I tried it on, I knew immediately that I would have to keep it.  The bright red-orange is so summery and pretty.  It fits perfectly and I feel so comfortable in it.  I know I will wear this shirt a lot this summer.

Verdict: Kept.

Just Black Kristy Skinny Jean in Petite (Also worn in above photo)

If you know me, you know that I am truly vertically challenged.  These jeans were the PERFECT length for me.  I love my skinnies to be cropped right at the ankle.  Unfortunately, they never fit that way on me unless I get them hemmed.  The only problem with these jeans is that since they were petite, they fit a little tighter than my normal size.  I decided to keep these anyway since I am still losing baby weight and they will fit by summer. Note to anyone requesting petites- you may want to go up a size from what you regularly wear.

Verdict: Kept

41 Hawthorn Renesme Geo Print Faux Wrap Dress

In my last fix, I got a wrap dress that fit really nicely.  However, I wasn't a big fan of the pattern.  In my note to my stylist I requested the same dress in a different pattern.  This is what she sent and I loved it!  The hubs told me it was his favorite item, so of course....

Verdict: Kept

Fun2Fun Sheridan Striped V-Neck Tab Sleeve Blouse

This shirt was really cute, but it was way too big on me.  The armpits hung down and it just looked awkward.  Fortunately, I was able to sell it to someone who wanted it, and that meant that I got the 25% off discount for keeping all 5 items.  Whoop whoop!

Verdict: Kept, and Sold

When you keep all 5 items, Stitch Fix gives you 25% off of your entire purchase.  I kept all 5, and then sold the striped shirt, so I got a major discount on everything that I bought.  Of course, I passed the discount on to the friend who bought the striped shirt:)  It was a win-win!

Want to give it a try?  To get your fix, click here!

What did you think of my second fix?

Life With a New Baby: Mama Must-Haves

In honor of Parker's 1st birthday, I decided to list my top "Mama Must-Haves" for survival as a new mom. It seems like it was just yesterday that we brought Parker home.  What a crazy, wonderful year it has been!

My 9 Mama Must- Haves

9. Pack-n-play with changing table

Parker used to sleep during his diaper changes....sigh.

Similar here

I would highly recommend this, especially if you have a two story house. I wasn't allowed to go up and down steps for two weeks after having Parker, so this saved me from having to climb to the second story every 30 minutes or less. Ours had a handy little side basket where I could store all the diapers, wipes, and creams for easy access. You will also love the pack-n-play for traveling. We kept ours in our car for a while, so that we could let Parker nap in it while visiting family at their houses. I suggest buying the little sheets that fit the pack-n-play.  They were really inexpensive, and they will protect it from getting dirty, as well as being soft and comfy for your babe.

8. K-tan wrap

I miss those snuggles!

Similar here
My friend Hilary recommended this fabric wrap, and it was a lifesaver. When Parker would get fussy, I would wrap him up in it and wear him around the house. He would go to sleep pretty much instantly. I have even been known to prop myself up on a pillow on the coach and get some relaxation in while he slept. My favorite thing about the K-tan, as opposed to other wraps, was that it was two pieces. One piece is shaped like a loop, and the other is a long "tie" piece. It was pretty simple to put on by myself, which was essential. YouTube has some great instructional videos that show you how to use the K-tan in several different ways.

7. Rock N' Play

Paisley keeping watch over her new brother.

Similar here
The Rock 'N Play is like a cozy little bassinet on a slight angle. Ours could vibrate, and you could also rock it by hand.  The new ones rock themselves!  It was tall enough that it was the perfect height to reach out and rock easily from a bed or couch.  We let Parker sleep in it at night, even though technically it isn't supposed to be used for nighttime sleeping.  Whether you are rule breaker like us or not;) you will still love the Rock N' Play.

6.4moms mamaRoo Swing

My little bunny, enjoying his swing!

Popping the balls out of the mobile became his favorite pastime.

Similar here

We originally bought a different kind of swing, but it took up a LOT of space and sounded like a helicopter was taking off when we turned it on.  We brought it back to the store when Parker was one week old and screaming his tiny little head off.  In our frazzled state, the toy-store employee had pity on us and sold us a mamaRoo for a good deal.  Ya'll.  This swing is so amazing.  It is designed to imitate the movements that moms naturally do to soothe their babies.  It barely takes up any room, and it has great white-noise sounds.  It is also compatible with your iPhone/iPad/music device, so you can play songs or lullabies through it.  We did purchase the newborn insert, which helps the baby feel snug inside the swing. We only needed it for a couple weeks, but I it was worth it for Parker to feel secure and comfortable.

5. Summer Infant Swaddle-me Wraps

I didn't have a pic of Parker in his swaddle, but this image is from the link below and can be found at Toys R Us.

Similar here

These velcro wraps are straight up MIRACLE WORKERS!  Parker was a spunky little thing, and he broke out of every swaddle we put him in.  The wrap helped him feel like he was in the womb, and kept him from waking up due to his startle reflex.  I also didn't have to worry that he would break out of his blanket and smother himself during the night (my constant new-mom source of panic!). There are several different kinds of these wraps out there- all with different price points.  Whichever one you choose, I suggest that you buy several (we had 3 of each size), because they will get dirty fast, and you won't want to be without them!

4. Video monitor

Being able to see Parker on the monitor eased my worries.

Similar here
At first I wasn't sure if I wanted a video monitor, but I am SO glad that we ended up splurging on one.  I can't tell you how many times Parker has made loud noises or acted like he was waking up, when he wasn't.  Having a video monitor that you can glance at to make sure your babe is okay saves time and energy- not to mention the fact that if I didn't have a video monitor, I would have burst in Parker's room and woken him up unnecessarily on several occasions.  Whoops! Also, our version of the Motorola monitor does not have the temperature and time on the display screen and I wish it did. You live and you learn!

3. Sound machine

Picture from Bed Bath and Beyond

Ours is the HoMedics Sound Machine.

White Noise!  A mama's favorite trick!  A very smart person once told me that not only will your baby be comforted by a sound machine, but it will also help drown out the tiny sounds that your baby will make during the night that will have you waking up 5 million times to check on them, when they are actually sleeping soundly.  So true. So worth it. You won't regret it.  Parker still uses his a year later! 

2. A Devotional for Moms

Image found at Amazon.com

Image found at Amazon.com

Two that I loved are Well Done Good and Faithful Mommy: Finding Fulfillment as a Mom-on-the-Go by Megan Breedlove and The Confident Mom: Guiding Your Family with God's Strength and Wisdom by Joyce Meyer

Okay, now I know you are thinking, "You're crazy, Taylor! I'll never have time to read a devotional in those first couple of months with a newborn!" but believe me- this was my saving grace. There were many times when I felt like I was failing at motherhood. I wanted to cry, laugh, run away, never leave my baby's side, kill my husband, and fall in love with him all over again (those hormones!).  Even if you only have time to read one paragraph a day, it will help ground you and remind you of the One who will never leave your side, who has entrusted you with this beautiful new blessing of motherhood. Plus, you need to take a few seconds to regroup, Mama, so let Daddy hold the baby and go relax for a minute or two.

1. YOUR Mama (aka a rock solid support system)

Me and my mom!

Parker's Nina feeding him at a rest stop on the way to the beach.

Billy and I had the HILARIOUS idea that we didn't need anyone to help us the first week that we brought Parker home. We were all, "We can handle it- we want to spend time together as a family of three!" Then, the babe was born. Who knew that two people was about 10 people too short when taking care of a newborn? Needless to say, there is a reason why they say that it takes a village!  My mom pretty much stayed with us 24/7 that first week, and most of the next week too.  My mother-in-law came over several times a week to hold Parker so I could nap, and our wonderful friends from our church provided us with meals every other day for a month!  I was constantly texting two of my close friends (both have babies slightly older than Parker) and asking them for advice on everything from breastfeeding to getting the baby to sleep through the night.  The bottom line is, try to have a good support system set up before the baby comes.  Don't be afraid to ask for help.  Babies are wonderful, but they need constant care.  If you are lucky enough to have people who want to help- let them!

One last little thing- if you can, make sure you know how everything works BEFORE the baby comes.  Put the swing together, open and close the pac-n-play a few times, and know how to clean and use your breastpump if breastfeeding.  Once that baby comes- ain't NOBODY got time for that!

Those of you who have been through it already, what were your must-haves for surviving those first months with a newborn?  What advice do you have for new moms?

Stitch Fix Review #1

I have been wanting to try out Stitch Fix for a long time, but I have been hesitant because I am pretty particular about my clothes.  To be honest, I wasn't sure if I could trust someone else to pick out something that I would like and that would fit well.  My friend Katie and I decided to take the plunge and try it out together, and we LOVED the experience.

Some quick facts about Stitch Fix:

-The styling fee is $20 per fix.  The $20 is deducted from the price of any item(s) that you purchase in that fix.
-You can specify your price range for the items that you receive.  You can also specify how often you want to receive a fix.
-You will receive 5 items that are hand-picked for you by your stylist, using the style profile that you will fill out upon signing up.  You can decide to purchase them all, just a few items, or to send them all back if you don't want to keep any of them.
-You have 3 business days to choose what you want to keep and send back what you don't like.  They give you a prepaid shipping envelope that you can just pop in your mailbox (so easy!).
-If you choose to keep all 5 items, you get 25% off your entire order.

My fix:

Vilmer V-Neck Blouse
Liverpool Mira Skinny Pant

I had a really hard time deciding what to do about this shirt.  It was a little big (I had to go back to my style profile and adjust my sizing), but I love love LOVED the light coral color and with the white lattice print.  It is so light and airy.  It looks good paired with a slim belt around the waist, which helps give me a little more shape than what you see here.

Verdict: Kept.

The pants were another request that I had written in my note to my stylist.  I told her that I would like some thick leggings that would be comfortable and still look stylish.  These look just like black jeans, but they don't have a button or zipper- they just pull right up.  They are stretchy,comfortable and pretty much amazing.  I did have to hem them, which is the story of my life (short girl probs).  Stitch Fix just started a petite line, so I'm sure I'll have some of those items to review soon.

Verdict: Kept.

Brixton Ivy Fallon Mixed Print Sleeveless Blouse

This shirt was too boxy.  The print was really pretty, but I just wasn't happy with how it looked on me.  

Verdict: Sent back.

Pixley Ohara Faux Wrap Tie-Waist Dress

 I felt so comfortable in this dress!  It was really soft, and I thought that it was flattering.  However, I am just not a fan of chevron prints on my body.  Put them on a pillow, a notebook, or anywhere else and I love them.  In my note to my stylist, I asked for this same dress in a different print.

Verdict: Sent back.

Octavia Henry Birds on Branch Infinity Scarf

 I ADORED this scarf.  I told my stylist that I love infinity scarves, and also that my favorite store is Anthropologie.  I feel like she really delivered on this pick!

Verdict: Kept.

Style Cards:

 Stitch Fix sends you cards with styling ideas, which are super helpful if you need some different ways to wear your items.  You will also get a personalized note from your stylist, detailing what she sent and why.  

Overall, I was SO happy with how personal and fun my fix was.  Stay tuned for a review of my second box, coming at the end of April!

To get your fix, click here!

What do you think of my first fix?

The Return of the Blog

Welcome to my blog!  I am so excited to start writing again, after a long hiatus.

Why the return to the blogging world?  Almost one year ago {tear} I had my sweet baby boy, Parker. 

  I was so happy to have the opportunity to press the pause button on my life as a teacher and become a Stay-At-Home-Mom, but I missed the creative outlet that I had while working in the classroom.  This blog serves as a place for me to share my inspirations and ideas about decorating and fashion (styling a post-baby body is no joke, ya'll!).  I will be posting my decorative projects around the house, as well as some fashion tricks and ideas.  In addition, expect some mama-must-haves and updates from life in the Stiles House. I hope you enjoy, and I'm glad you stopped by!