Stitch Fix Review: June 2015

Posted on June 9, 2015 by surgeoninkicks

As some of you may know, my last two Fixes were a total Fail. However, I was willing to give them another chance, and this is why: their customer service. It is awesome. Ladies, if you are having the same issues over and over again (don’t like paisley but every box contains it, said not to send jeans but you get jeans everytime, etc), please please email them. Stitch Fix has been incredibly responsive, and I truly feel like as a company they care about customer satisfaction. However, I do wish they would carry a more consistent quality of clothing. I don’t expect by any stretch to have a perfect Fix every time. I do expect there to be learning curve with your stylist… meaning it should get better and better over time. I definitely had been on that trajectory for awhile, and then it petered out leaving me frustrated. I emailed the company, they responded promptly, and assigned a different stylist (whom if I remember correctly, has styled me before). And, this Fix definitely reflected their efforts: Only one piece they sent I felt to be low quality, and almost all of the pieces were in my style wheelhouse, so to speak.

For those of you who aren’t sure about how Stitch Fix works and want to learn more, including about referral links, click here.

1. RD Style Samsem Spaghetti Strap Blouse $38

This thankfully was the only piece which wasn’t good quality. In fact, it came with the closing stitch in front already pulled off – which I didn’t notice at first and left me puzzled for a few minutes as to how this top was supposed to work. The material was also so transparent that you can see clearly at the top hem where the fabric is folded.

This is how it is supposed to look, but instead here is how it actually came:

2. Le Lis Benito Mix Material Knit Tank $44

The cotton material in this blouse was nice and thick… and very soft. I like the idea of this – the split back, but this blouse lost me on 2 accounts – the chiffon just didn’t mesh with my style, and the aline + horizontal stripes + open back resulted in a very blousy top which was not flattering at all. Which is unfortunate, because I do love open backed blouses, but just not this one.

3. Street Level Klaine Roll-Over Clutch $48

I immediately loved everything about this – the quality, the design, the style of it…everything but the color. It was described as a teal green, but actually just seemed more of an “electric blue” color. Although I initially didn’t see myself using this as an accent color very often, I love this clutch. Perfect sized to fit a wallet, keys and a phone without being bulky, and the leather is so soft… so I talked myself into keeping it 😉

4. Liverpool Raphael Denim Jacket $88

Although I had been pinning and wanting a faded denim jacket – preferably with some distressing and a little bit of stretch mixed in with the cotton, I did like this jacket – and ended up keeping it. It is darker than what I was looking for, but the material and fit were great – very soft cotton with some stretch, fitted, comfortable, not cropped and not too long. This is perfect for the summer as a throw on over an outfit – either for an outdoor event at night or for sitting in any and every restaurant which invariably has its thermostat set to 58 degrees. In regards to the color, it is in fact darker than pictured in the close up photo…

5. DL1961Celia Distressed Boyfriend Jean $168

Love, love, love. This is a great brand, and this pair is exactly what I was looking for and perfect for summer – faded, soft, baggy, perfect length when rolled for that true, but flattering boyfriend look. Definitely quality and my style.

So, in conclusion, I am very glad to say that Stitch Fix redeemed themselves from the past 2 fix slump… I kept 3 out of the 5 items, but even more important than that, I think, is that the Style of the fix is more in line with my style than almost any other fix I have received. This better reassures me that Stitch Fix has the inventory and the stylists for what I like – so much so that I have already signed up for a fix next month… stay tuned to see if they can keep the ball rolling!

And, if you would like to try Stitch Fix for yourself, click here!

April Stitch Fix Review

Posted on April 29, 2015 by surgeoninkicks

Short and sweet version of how Stitch Fix works, click here.

So, for full disclosure, I received a shipment over a month ago that was pretty much a disaster. They had changed out my usual stylist, and well, it didn’t work out so well. In fact, I don’t even remember all the pieces they sent because it was that bad – either in quality or in the style itself. However, I wanted to give Stitch Fix another try. I don’t expect every box to be a 100% hit, but I do want it to be fun! So, this brings us to this month’s fix. The set up was right – my original stylist was back, I asked for fun spring and summer items, I even mentioned an upcoming trip to the beach…Alas, my hopes were low upon opening the box, and completely dashed after trying everything on. Only the second box ever that was a no hitter, a complete miss. Nothing was even tempting to spend $20 on 😦

Let’s start with the two items that were on my Pinterest page…

Taylor Izara Honeycomb Print Dress $78

Now, this item is truly well made. Great fabric, lined, and overall a quality piece, and worth the $78. Unfortunately, I didn’t like the print in real life, it was too big all over and as you can see below, extremely unflattering – made me look even shorter and stockier than I already am.

Market & Spruce Sam Hi-Lo Short Sleeve Tee $44

I had also Pinned this – but sometimes you just shouldn’t give people what they ask for, and this is an example. Too big and too long. The material was very soft, but also pretty see-through.

Gotta love my little photo bomber:) Now onto the “surprises”…

19 Cooper Sheer Javi Panel Blouse $58

It seems that Stitch Fix has a plethora of shapeless blouses made of synthetic materials… see my last article of clothing for another example. Anyways, same story different verse – didn’t like the print, it was boxy, shapeless, and yet again, unflattering. I’m guessing the “sheer” panels were this blouse’s attempt at being cool and hip? Fail. I promise I do own a waist – as yet unproven by a single picture in this blog…

Eight Sixty Tracie Geo Print Maxi Skirt $78

The one positive thing I can say about this maxi skirt was that the length was perfect – which is definitely difficult to find since I am so petite. However – not only did I pretty much abhor the print, and find the 10 inch long “lining” humorous, the material definitely was the cherry on top of this disastrous cake. I am not sure of anyone who would want to wear this polyester material during any warm weather, much less at the beach. Oh, and don’t even get me started on the cheap, narrow elastic waistband – the kind that will continuously twist on you…

This is the “lining” turned inside out so you can get an idea of how ~~pathetic~~ short it was.

Collective Concepts May Chevron Print Knit Back Top $54

Don’t even really know where to begin with this, oh, wait, this story sounds familiar – I again, don’t like the print, it is super short (which really is an achievement considering I am only 5’2″!) and super boxy. The back is also virtually sheer, and overall quality isn’t great. And again, unflattering.

So, there we are, folks. Sadly, the only thing this month’s fix provided was an entire page of fashion “don’ts”. One thing I did note from this fix is that my shipment came from Indiana instead of San Francisco – maybe this played a role in the lack of actually cool and fashionable clothing? Maybe I should unclick the “mom” box on my style profile? I have to admit, I’m still not exactly sure why that is on there… Anyways, I am still holding onto a small seed of faith that Jenny L. can get this train back on track, and I will try one more fix. I have had success in the past with some great pieces, and am hoping for a fun and fashionable fix next time.

Despite this month’s review, check out my previous “wins”, how Stitch Fix works and if you would like to try Stitch Fix out for yourself, click here.

December 2014 Stitch Fix Review

Posted on February 2, 2015 by surgeoninkicks

Finally getting around to posting, this is my last shipment from Stitch Fix. If you are unsure what Stitch Fix is about, how it works, etc, click here for my first review. Getting straight to it…

Kut from the Kloth Hera Collarless Animal Print Swing Jacket $88

I really, really wanted to love this jacket. And, if it had been a true swing jacket, I would have kept it. However, it wasn’t a true swing jacket, it actually tapered at the bottom, giving me an unfortunate bottom view 🙂 Sent back.

Evolution by Cyrus Abbot Crew Neck Elbow Patch Sweater $108

Kut from the Kloth Jonathan Corduroy Skinny Pant $68

The sweater and the corduroy pants were good quality, but the fit wasn’t flattering on the sweater, and the pants were waaay too long. Both sent back.

Olive & Oak Marley Split Back Knit Top $44

I loved this top. Great quality, and extremely soft. It is slightly sheer, so will have to have a tank or camisole under it, but I’m okay with that. Kept!

Look by M Sammie Plaid Infinity Scarf $34

Very soft, and loved the colors. The length of the infinity scarf was perfect, too. Is it just me or do some infinity scarves leave a little too much after the twist? Okay, maybe it’s just because I’m the size of a Smurf…Anyways… Kept!

Overall, a great fix. Jenny L. thank goodness was my stylist again and she pretty much nails it every time. I usually receive a mix of items directly from my Pinterest board and some surprises. I still love Stitch Fix as a way to add some pieces to my wardrobe that I probably wouldn’t have picked out myself, and I am looking forward to my next Fix! If you want to try it for yourself, click here for my referral link.

October 2014 Stitch Fix Review

Posted on October 16, 2014 by surgeoninkicks

Alright peeps, let’s get the business side of this post done quickly – if you aren’t sure how Stitch Fix works, you can read my first posting here for all the details – including how I don’t work for them or sadly get reimbursed for my opinion:).

Jenny L. was again my stylist and again achieved the perfect mix of requests (2 items) and surprises. Even though I only kept 2 items, there was only one total “miss” in the fix. I 100% feel that Jenny L. is getting my style and sending me try-on worthy pieces.

1. Katherine Barclay Eliot Asymmetrical Knit Cardigan $158

Yes, this is a bit pricey – but it is such a high quality piece. Although similar to the Alan Cowl Neck Asymmetrical Cardigan I received in my last fix, this fabric has real weight to it and even features a magnet to keep the underlying fabric from sagging and bunching. It is perfect for fall, and this one is staying in my closet!

2. 41 Hawthorn Coraline Mesh Detail Cross-Front blouse $64

Although I appreciated the mesh detailing, it just ended up looking a bit odd and dare I say low quality. This didn’t require too much of a debate, because it was way too big as well.

3. Market and Spruce Corinna Striped Dolman Top $48

Although I do like this style, and I loved the color, I just couldn’t justify buying another “slightly baggy tunic to pair with leggings” sort of top. It fit well, as it wasn’t too big or too long. The only negative fit wise is that it has a decently wide boat neck meaning I would be fighting with bra straps showing all day. But, it was good quality, and sadly went back in the bag as a return.

4. Dorothy Layered Hammered Cuff $34

I love this bracelet – simple without being plain, makes a statement without shouting. This was a definite keeper.

5. Eight Sixty Drifter Graphic Floral Faux Leather Trim Blouse $78

Umm, yeah, so this was the total miss in the fix. I think the edging in faux leather was an attempt to adjust for the matronly print, but it just didn’t quite cut it. Plus, I am really not a flowy blouse kind of a girl. This isn’t my style, the fit wasn’t flattering, and the print just dreadful – there wasn’t anything that could redeem this blouse.

Overall, another great shipment from Jenny L. and Stitch Fix. If you would like to try it, click here for my referral link.

Happy Thursday everyone!

September 2014 Stitch Fix Review

Posted on September 15, 2014 by surgeoninkicks

I’m a little late posting this one, but this is my review for my September Stitch Fix box. If you are not sure how Stitch Fix works, click here and read my first review. Jenny L was my stylist again, and did an awesome job… again 🙂 It was another perfect mix of requested pieces and surprises and everything fit well.

On to the fix…

1. Pixley June Polka dot skirt $58

I’m starting with the only “miss” in the fix. The fit was great, and the material was a thicker cotton with stretch. However, the polka dots and navy and white color scheme were screaming spring and summer to me, instead of heading into fall, and overall the look is a little too preppy for me.

2. Pomelo Alan French Terry Asymmetrical Zip Cardigan $68

This was a requested piece, and I wanted to love it. The material was amazingly soft and comfortable, but unfortunately much thinner than I had anticipated – so you can see every wrinkle from the overlapping fabric and every line from the jeans I wore with it. This was a return.

3. Amour Vert Alessandro Abstract Print BUtton Up Blouse $118

Is it or is it not a 3/4 sleeve? That is the question. Well, let’s start with the positives – this is a very high quality piece – well made, seriously luxurious fabric (100% good quality silk)- and I believe worth the price tag. I am usually not huge on prints, but I loved this one and the colors. However, as you can see by the picture, it is waaay too long. If you changed the material to a white cotton, it could be a nightgown. Also, because I’m so petite, the sleeve length was not quite 3/4 and also not quite full length. Unwillingly, this went back into the bag.

4. Kensie Shannon Lace Back Short Sleeve Blouse $68

This was one of my surprises, and Jenny L. really hit the nail on the head with this one. I loved it. The lace detail on the sleeve and the back was beautiful. I tried so hard to convince myself to keep this one, but it just wasn’t flattering. I don’t necessarily mind a boxy cut, but the darts at the bust hit me below the bust and overall was just a little too big. The sleeves although beautifully done, hit my arm at an awkward place also. This is the piece that I tried on at least 4 times, and most reluctantly put back in the bag. I am feeling a case of “Stitch Fix regret” coming on, I loved the style of this so much, but it just wasn’t flattering, dang it.

5. Margeret M Emer High Waisted Cropped Trouser $98

So I received the blue version of these a few fixes ago and although I liked the fit, I wasn’t crazy about the blue color. I asked to try these again in black, and so glad I received them! The inseam is perfect, the pants fit perfectly for both work and play – fitted, but not tight – and they are comfortable! I have already worn these twice since receiving (on a plane and for work) – perfect for traveling!

Overall, I am still so happy Jenny L. is my stylist and think she did a great job. I loved all the pieces she sent except for the polka dot skirt. This fix was again a perfect mix of requested pieces and some “surprises” that were awesome. Ugh, there I go again thinking about the black lace shirt….

I am still enjoying Stitch Fix, and if you would like a “fix” yourself, here is my referral link to get started!

A perfect fix? July Stitch Fix Review

Posted on July 10, 2014 by surgeoninkicks

Yay! I just received my latest shipment from Stitch Fix and was fortunate to have my same stylist as last month, Jenny L. In fact, she did such a good job, I need a little help this month deciding what to keep! What was so great about this fix is that she included 2 items directly off my Pinterest page, and the rest were filled in based upon Jenny’s interpretation of my style.

Not sure how Stitch Fix works? Click here and read my post from last month to get all the ins and outs, information about the referral links, and some advice on how to achieve your best fix! This review is not sponsored by Stitch Fix and (unfortunately) I was not compensated in any way for my opinion.

Okay, so here we go…

Fun2Fun Susie Solid V-Neck Tank $44

To start, green is my favorite color, so it did have me at “hello”. It is low-cut, so will always have to be paired with a tank, or as I have it paired here, with a Coobie strapless bandeau (perfect for this type of situation, where in the summer you don’t necessarily want a second layer but need a little coverage).

Eight Sixty Ginsberg Metal Bib Striped Tank $68

Not going to lie, when I “cheated” and peeked at my shipping list before my fix arrived, this was the item I was least excited about. However, the fabric is amazing. Although it isn’t form fitting, it is not as loose as I have found most other Stitch Fix tops to be, which is definitely a positive. What do you guys think?! Pictured with my Pilcro Hyphen Fit jeans from Anthropologie – a great relaxed pair of distressed jeans that I wear probably way too much 🙂 I bought these a year ago, but here are this year’s version.

Pink Martini Joshua Colored Ankle Jean $64

I had a hard time getting a good picture of these. Overall, I did love the color. However, these are super low rise, just take a look at how short the zipper is in the picture above! With a loose fitting top, the resulting muffin top from such a short rise isn’t visible, but this obviously results in not the most comfortable of fits. I honestly wouldn’t even really consider keeping these because of the fit, but if I keep the other 4 items, it is cheaper for me to keep these and receive the 25% discount. This is exactly why I need some input…

Paired with a Design History tank from Hot Mama on the left and a Deletta t-shirt from Anthropologie on the right (both purchased about one year ago).

Pink Martini Devin Lace Detail Tie-Waist Maxi Dress $88

The fabric of this dress has a nice weight and drapes well. I love the fact that it isn’t black, like so many of the dresses in my closet. The lace detailing on the shoulders and upper back also gives this dress a unique touch without being too fussy. The best part? With my awesome Jimmy Choo wedges, no need to hem (barely, but hey I will take it)!

Last, but not least:

Market and Spruce Analisse Anorak Jacket $88

I had seen this on another blog review, and kinda fell in love with it. Well, then it came in my fix and I love it even more! The fabric is amazingly soft, and the jacket is nice and lightweight. The hood is detachable which is also a nice touch. The other great thing, is that I have nothing remotely like it already in my closet. Paired with my Citizens of Humanity Rocket distressed skinny jeans (yes, I have a problem and am addicted to distressed denim) and a t.la tank that is my favorite tank ever. This year’s version, again at Anthropologie, is unfortunately made with a thinner material, longer straps, and doesn’t come close to how awesome they were last year. Anyways, I digress…

So what do you guys think? Since you receive a 25% discount if you purchase all 5 items, it will be cheaper for me to keep all 5 than to return the mint colored jeans. Are the other 4 items worth keeping? I can’t quite call this a “perfect” fix since the fit on the jeans is pretty off, but everything that was sent is definitely my style and I consider that a success!

Want to give Stitch Fix a try? Click here to get started!

Stitch Fix for a Fashionista? A Stitch Fix Review

Posted on June 24, 2014 by surgeoninkicks

Ooh – there goes the bandwagon…. Aaaand I jumped right on it. StitchFix sells itself as providing your own personal styling, within the comfort of your home. It touts itself as perfect for the busy women, and if nothing else, I am busy and I do love shopping. So, I figured I would give it a spin, and here are my thoughts! And no, I am not reimbursed in any way for this review. I paid for all my clothing, sadly 😉

First, let’s get the nitty gritty out of the way. Here’s how you do it:

Fill out a style “profile” – takes about 10 minutes, asks not only your body type and sizing, but also asks you to describe your style. It also shows you pictures of outfits that you then like or dislike.
Sign up for a “fix” – There is $20 styling fee that goes towards your purchase, and you receive 5 items in the mail.
Try everything on at home and any unwanted items are returned in the included (postage already paid) bag within 3 business days. If you keep all 5 items, everything is then discounted 25%.

A couple of notes – The average price is $65 an item. I have found their price point to be similar to Ann Taylor or Banana Republic. If you don’t choose anything from the shipment, you do lose your $20 styling fee. I also don’t have any pictures of me wearing items I didn’t keep – basically I couldn’t get my act together in enough time before I had to send items back. I also don’t own a full length mirror, so until I do, unfortunately we only have 3/4 length pictures 🙂

Fix #1.

What I kept:

41 Hawthorn Sugar Dot Print Fit & Flare Dress $74

41 Hawthorn Freddy Sleeveless Chiffon Dress $58

Neither one of these dresses is my usual style, but they both fit well, were comfortable and church appropriate.

Kensie Jeans Johnny Skinny Jeans $88

Pretty much your basic dark denim skinny jeans. They are a nice basic, comfortable and didn’t create the dreaded muffin top so I kept them. Probably the best part was that since they were “ankle length”, they were the perfect full length on me, and I didn’t have to hem them!

What I didn’t keep:

The short sleeve shirt was okay, I liked the color but the fit was a just bit blah for me. The Cross-Front Blouse was just flat out not flattering, and I wasn’t really into long sleeve shirts heading into summer.

Overall Impression of Fix #1: Very conservative clothing, overall probably a safe bet from the stylist’s perspective. I wasn’t crazy about either of the dresses, but I did need some items that I could wear to church. Sometimes my husband thinks my fashion choices are a bit “much” for church, but whatever, I think anyone would enjoy the fabulous leather skirt I wore one Sunday. Anyways… Seeing as how my style icon is Olivia Palermo, I knew I was going to have to put some work into this. So I gave tons of feedback, requested no more super conservative dresses and started a Pinterest page.

Fix #2.

What I kept:

Kensie Kormann Drape Front Open Cardigan $78

A very nice open cardigan, great fabric and I have worn this a ton since getting it.

What I didn’t keep:

Pixley Denali Layered Chain Necklace – unfortunately I don’t have a picture of this, but think of 3 very bright gold very thick chains all the same length but in one necklace. It wasn’t really “layered”, and the gold looked terribly cheap.

Overall Impression of Fix #2: Oh hell no. Tie dye? That dress for a date night? Maybe if I never ever want to have my husband actually think I am sexy ever again. And since I don’t plan on dressing up as Mr. T for Halloween this year, I really don’t have a use for that necklace. The jeans were not flattering and weren’t actually cropped on me since I am only 5’2″. Hmm, back to Pinterest I go…more feedback given, more images pinned to my Stitch Fix board. For the next fix, I asked specifically for fun summer casual items and hot date night wear…

Fix #3.

Overall Impression of Fix #3: A blazer, trousers, and a long sleeve dress are considered fun summer clothing? I really didn’t think they could have been more off… All of the clothing went back into the bag this time. The short sleeve shirt was super unflattering and I’m guessing the “studded” 3/4 length sleeve blouse was their answer to my asking for more modern, less conservative clothing? So, I figured it was time for an intervention. I emailed Stitch Fix, who reviewed my Pinterest page, my notes, and the latest fix and agreed with me that they were missing the mark… by a lot. I will say they truly had great customer service, refunded my $20 styling fee and got me yet again, another stylist.

Fix #4.

What I kept:

AV Max Bindy Turquoise Stone Pendant $54

This necklace was definitely “statement” without being overstated and had a nice weight to it.

41 Hawthorn Carson Silk Front-Twist Sleeveless Blouse $88

Even though this is a loosely fitted top, it is modern looking as well as comfortable. The silk material is nice and will be perfect for summer.

What I didn’t keep:

The jeans were great – not really a boyfriend cut, more like a skinny boyfriend I would say. But, I already own white jeans (J. Crew Toothpick, which I love) and didn’t need another pair. The maxi dress was made of a great fabric, but needed at least 6 inches hemmed from it. I don’t necessarily mind needing to hem things, but I didn’t like the print and overall the dress was not flattering enough to warrant the extra $20 needed for alterations. The tiered tank, I’m not going to lie, was terrible. Definitely not my style with all that extra material. However, it really was the only item in this fix that was completely out of the ballpark.

Overall Impression of Fix #4: Aaaahh, better, definitely better. I only kept 2 items from this fix, but it was much much more in line with my actual style and has restored my faith in Stitch Fix.

Bottom Line:

Stitch Fix is attempting to provide a personal styling service to a large number of women – different ages, different sizes, and different tastes. I have seen reviews from women in their 20’s to women in their 50’s. I do think that a large portion of their inventory is on the conservative side and they don’t tend to carry too many fitted pieces. Do I think they have my Olivia Palermo/Rachel Zoe style down yet? No, not really, but that being said, I like their price point, they have great basics, a nice mix of brands that aren’t available everywhere, and they have great customer service. I am already signed up for another fix next month. If you would like to sign up, click here, and you can start filling out your own style profile!

Tips for a great fix:

1. Start a Pinterest Page. This is a huge help to the stylist, and you should include a picture of yourself on your profile. I can imagine that trying to style for someone you have never seen a picture of would be quite difficult.

2. Give very specific feedback about what you don’t like and specific items you would like to see. Be Very Direct! For example, here is the message I wrote to my stylist for next month’s fix…

“no jewelry. no tie dyed anything. no church type super conservative dresses. no white jeans. look at my pinterest page-I have a ton of StitchFix specific items pinned. YES to: distressed, baggy boyfriend jeans, tank tops with racerbacks, jillian crochet tank, 41 hawthorn mint color open drape cardigan, alan cowl asymmetrical jacket in blue, green, or coral; pomelo anorak jacket, colored jeans in blue or mint green, la made cotton poncho, fate anabella knit layered top in white. I like Splendid and tart brands.”

Here is my personal referral link to get started. Whenever you sign up, you are given a personal referral link and receive $25 in credit towards a purchase if anyone uses it.

Hot Heels, Cool Kicks, & a Scalpel

A Trauma Mama's Attempt at Integrating Fashion, Fitness, Family & Work

Tag Archives: Stitch Fix Review

Stitch Fix Review: June 2015

April Stitch Fix Review

December 2014 Stitch Fix Review

October 2014 Stitch Fix Review

September 2014 Stitch Fix Review

A perfect fix? July Stitch Fix Review

Stitch Fix for a Fashionista? A Stitch Fix Review