Boden: Extra 10% Off Clearance Ends Tonight! And Many Reviews!

Hi, all!  I announced the extra 10% off sale earlier this week at my blog's Facebook page, and included a few photos, but figured I should probably publish a post with a whole bunch of reviews before the sale ends.  🙂

Anyhow, tonight this extra percentage off ends, and to enjoy it, you'll have to use the code NS19.  I've used it a few times, mainly for items I've needed a price drop on before biting. I am definitely interested in what you all have purchased, so leave a comment with your favorites from the sale!

Okay, onto the reviews!

Lola Skirt, size 8 petite.  I wanted this print so bad that I was willing to try as many items with it on it.  I initially purchased this skirt, but after trying it on, I thought the waist was too wee, so I contemplated sending it back.  After trying it on again a few weeks later, I realized though it was snugger than my usual skirts, it was wearable and cuter than I initially felt.  So this was the winner of the conversational beach print wars.  The length is FAB in the petite.  I wanted it to end at my knee, and the other length would have been too long for what I was looking for (the regular, in fact, would have ended three inches below my knee, which is not what I wanted at all).

Regular is all that is available in this print, and while it will be a whole lot of print to wear that long on your body, I know a lot of you could make it work, so don't let "Miss Tall wearing a petite length" scare you away.  I really love fuller length skirts ending right at or just below my knee.

Short Sleeve Breton, size 8.  The breton that Boden made is the one in the top photo (it is also below in the photo where I wear the floral shorts).  This one I size up from my usual 6 because I find the Breton style long and more fitted than other tops they make.  To be fair, Boden is the one company I most often wear an 8-10 in, whereas J. Crew I tend to wear smaller sizes (except in pants, drat my pear shape).  This fits well, and I just love the multi-colors.  I have so many bottoms that work with this particular top that I have already worn and washed it a ton.  Definitely worth the price paid (it isn't in the clearance).

It is a thinner fabric than the thicker Breton they often make, but for summer in Virginia, that suits me just fine.

Vienne Mid-Heel, size 40.5.  I rarely wear heels anymore, mainly because the higher heels I had in the past don't work with my current work environment (the standing all day makes that nearly impossible, and I get cranky wearing them, I don't know how I wore them in the past to work).  But for special occasions, I will wear them (but I will bring flat sandals to change into if needed, and I did with these, lol).  That said, for heels, they are comfortable enough.  The heel height is 2.5", so not super high, and the balance is decent, so I didn't feel like I would topple.  The size was great in the 40.5.  I wear between a 40-41 (a 9.5 in J. Crew), and this felt snug without being too tight.  The color is so pretty, as well.  (BTW, the Vienne's are in the top photo.)

Blackberry Dress, size 8 regular.  I ordered this one size up from the Blackberry dress I have from a prior season.  Though the six still fits, I wanted a bit more room in the hips and the eight gave me that.  This dress is almost identical to the ones of the past, so see the prior review for more info on it.  I do have to say this sunglasses print is so special.  Sadly this one is out of stock, but you can watch for popbacks.  

Marion Jersey Tunic, size 8.  This print reminds me so much of Boden from five to ten years ago, it is nice to see a return to brighter colors and unique, abstract patterns.  I also enjoy the return of a tunic that is not just meant for the beach or pool.  I wore this one to school one day and with leggings and the sandals were perfectly appropriate for my job.  I chose the 8 as I didn't want anything clinging to closely to my bottom, but I think I could have done the 6 and been fine.  It is made from the super stretchy rayon/spandex mix, so the 8 is a touch loose, especially in my bust area.  But it does look fine and really feels like super soft pajamas.  

Everyday Sandals, size 40.  This is a Johnnie b. item and were a hit at school (I've worn them a few times).  The price is very good for what you receive, and are very comfortable.  The 40 was almost too short, but all my toes fit right up to the footbed's edge, so just made it.  The 41 would have been way too wide, since the size 40 feel a bit loose.  (I really wish Boden would make narrow width shoes.)  These are the rose gold color.  

Celeste Silk Dress, size 8.  Oh how I desired this dress after seeing it debut with the Boden Icons a few months ago.  I initially was wary of purchasing since Boden didn't publish garment measurements (WHY? WHY?), and my bottom means I am often a 10 instead of an 8 in dresses.  And with this being silk, I knew the stretch would be minimal at best.

So I held off.  And by some luck, I ended up seeing it at a lower price point (10%, so not a ton, but now you can get an extra 10% off that price) in a size 8, so with thought that I would return it, I went ahead and gave it a go.

Well, it fits in the size 8.  It isn't even so fitted that I have wiggle around, and though it looks like the dress fits well, I do feel like a nice high dose of slinky spanx may make for a more confident me in it.  I do believe the 10, while looser through the hips, will lose the silhouette that makes it so special and pretty, so I will let it shine in the smaller size.

Short Sleeve Breton, size 8.  See above for more info on the Breton.

Eleana Woven Sandal, size 40.  These sandals weren't even on my radar until I found the want for a pair of navy sandals.  I have two pairs, and they are both heeled, and old.  So it's time.  But there are very few navy sandals out there.  I think the reason they weren't on my radar, or anyone else's for that matter, is because I am thinking they didn't use the sandals in any catalog shot.  They used them by themselves, but not with outfits on models.

They are very comfortable, and the 40 is nice and snug on my narrow foot, but again, like with the Everyday Sandal above, I would prefer a longer length of the 41.  That said, my toes are cozy and not falling off, so it works.

I think the reason the sandals weren't used was because of the line it creates, it does look a bit clunky, and though I have longer legs, they do get cut a bit because of the thicker ankle strap.  For my height, it's fine, but if you don't have longer legs, you may want to consider wearing them with pants or a maxi skirt/dress.  (Or not, it's only if you care about that sort of thing!)

CW wears the Summer Hotchpotch Dress, size 9-10.

Caterina Embroidered Slingback, size 41.  These shoes are precious.  And they actually match a few things in my wardrobe.  Though they have a pretty low rating, it is sort of surprising how sold out they are.  Evidently enough people made them work.  I did go up to a 41 after reading the reviews, but sizing up to a 42 would have made them way too wide and long.  I think they must be too narrow for some, but with my feet, that is what I need, so I was thrilled.  The slingback means they are not especially secure, but they did stay on the back of my foot well enough.  I spent the entire day in Richmond museums, so I would say they were foot friendly enough for that!

CW wears the Summer Applique Dress, size 9-10.

Phoebe Jersey Dress, size 6 regular.  I loved my navy bird version so much that I went ahead and went a bit shorter with the green.  They end up looking like two different dresses!  But the review I did for the navy holds true for the green, so go ahead and read that for more info.  :-)

Ruth Jersey Dress, size 8 regular.  I initially purchased this a size 6 long, and it was too long, and too fitted.  It looked very va-va-va-voom, but I will rely on dresses like the Celeste for that, not dresses like this that I want to wear to school.  This one fits so much better.  The only slight quibble I have is with the lining on the front.  It can get caught "up" so it ends up sticking out of the neckline and I have to pull the lining all the way down to get it to hide away again.  The back is not lined, fwiw.

The fabric is very stretchy and comfortable, and super soft.

Iris Ottoman Dress, size 8 long.  This looks so professional on me.  I really do rely on prints to carry me through my workday so the items I own that are more subdued or solid-colored are a bit jarring to see.  But I do need things that are more mature so these options are a good choice.  I am not a suit girl, so this will do.  The pockets are not as prominent as they appear on the Boden model, so if that's a concern for you, I will take that fear away.  I have hips, ladies, and they sit just fine, and don't make me any hippier than usual.  LOL.  

Martha Top, size 8.  I purchased this in a six, but found the hips to be too tight and the length too long, so I went ahead and grabbed the eight to feel more comfortable.  It is much better in this size.  My original review is here.

Okay, that's it for now.  I hope you have been enjoying summer so far.  I have, and really wish summer could last all year.  (I should just move to Florida, lol.)

The extra 10% off clearance sale ends tonight, don't forget!!!  Remember to use NS19 to receive that extra amount off.

Boden: Summer 2017 Preview Picks!

Hey, I am actually keeping a promise of posting when I said I would.  December miracle, you all.

Anyhow, like I explained in yesterday's post, Boden debuted their Summer 2017 collection over at their Preview site.  They are also offering up to 20% off with the code 6U2J.  This code expires tomorrow night at 11:59 pm, so not a whole lot of time to enjoy it, if you plan to.  :-/

Okay, onto the picks!

Josephine Dress.  Aww, pretty punchy florals!  This print is repeated multiple times in other garments, and the colors are used in other items, as well.  (I see a lot of bright blue, pure yellow, mid-pink throughout the collection.) There is a lot of harmony between the pieces this season. 

I'm not quite sure if there is a hidden placket in the bodice, but it sort of looks like it, doesn't it?

Andrea Dress.  If this dress was about $40 less expensive, I'd be ALL over it in preview.  Alas, $160 is a bit rich for a dress I could likely recreate myself (I just sewed up a bias dress so I get the work that goes into aligning stripes like you see on the skirt, but still, oof on the price). 

Cosima Placement Dress.  This dress intrigues me.  Either the border placement of the florals on the side is going to look REALLY good or REALLY bad.  I won't know till I see it on a human body, though.  I personally would have put the florals in the center, but I do own the floral ponte dress, and it has florals up and down the sides, so it can work.  But in this busy of a print?  Hmm...

Belle Ponte Dress. This seems like such a practical choice.  The pockets, the solid skirt, the ribbed ponte fabric of the bodice.  I definitely can see a lot of DC working women this summer wearing it. 

Blackberry Dress.  I love the blackberry style and design, and am glad they continue to reincarnate it every season with cute prints.  It's been a while since I have seen one I have really loved, but this pretty blue with wee little sunglasses?  Yes, please!  I have it in this version, for reference.  (Recently worn here, too.)

Evelyn Dress.  Another pretty practical dress.  It has pockets, has modest coverage, and features a striking and bold print.  This could end up on my list, but Boden didn't publish the garment measurements on this one, so no Bueno.  I'll wait.

Georgia Dress.  This print is a variation on another one, but this one only features the leafy part of the print.  All versions, in all colors, are so very lovely.  This one seems especially based on mid-1940s prints, so it has a vintage thing going for it, too.

Jessie Dress. Swoon at the raining daisy chains.  What a beautiful garment!  I definitely need to see this on someone, though, since it says it hits at mid-calf.  I don't want a garment that long, unless it is really well-fitted elsewhere. 

Martha Dress.  This is the same print as the Georgia dress above, but includes the daisy portion of the print.  These prints!  They're sublime (well, for me, anyhow, you may disagree, which is totally cool, lol).  ;-)  I own the Martha dress.  I last wore it here, I believe.

Nina Dress.  I dig it.  Not sure I should, but I am into it.  I am thinking it will be great for teaching, you know with it being made from a jersey, having good coverage overall, and being bright and peppy enough to keep the kids eyes on you.  :-D

Rosamund Dress. The border placement here is so special.  Very subtle, but still very eye catching, nonetheless.

Ruth Dress. LOVE.  The color, the print, its everything.  But you knew that already from all the loving the green version of this print got above.

Savannah Dress.  I sob over this one because it is very unlikely that my pear shape will fit into this dress (the measurements are probably to straight from bust to hem), but I'll hold out hope that there is some subtle shaping in there somewhere.  If not, I'll enjoy others wearing it from afar. 

Make a Statement Tee. I like Boden tees, they are made well, and don't have the annoying off grain syndrome other companies' tees have (J. Crew, I'm a looking at you!).  This one will actually work well with the three skirts below, so yay for working with so many of the pieces from this season.

Lola Skirt.  Oh, a conversational print!  Of a beach town and sailboats and sunbathing ladies!  Yes!  The conversational print will always have fans, so never take them away Boden!  NEVER!  (SO MANY EXCLAMATION POINTS!  YOU CAN TELL I TEACH GRAMMAR!  NOT!)  ;-)

Richmond Skirt. Oh, pretty daisy/poppy print.  I love you.  Boden pencil skirts hate my hips, but I forgive you. It was their choice to use you on a pencil skirt instead of a more curve friendly A-line.

Tilda Skirt.  There's the new fun skirt, full of print and embroidery.  And all the fun skirt haters thought they'd won.  Ha.  Not even.  All of us quirky style types held strong and the fun skirt came back.  Yeah.  YEAH!

Okay, that's it!  Do you have any picks of your own you'd like to share?  I'd love to read them!

Don't forget about the "up to 60% off sale" going on at Boden's regular site right now!  I will try to get those reviews up tomorrow.  Maybe lightning will strike thrice! :-)

Boden: Summer 2017 Preview is Here!

Boden Martha Dress--here!

Well, the preview has been here a while.  Whoops.  Darn Boden for issuing a preview nine days before Christmas.  I suspect quite a few of us were too busy to dither around seeking out the preview.  I only happened upon it last night because my sister-in-law and I were talking about the Lolly Dress that she just loves.  I said the link to the Lolly dress will not work because it's in a preview, and I clicked the link only to discover that there was a whole new preview ready to enjoy.

I always get the email, and I did, but to be honest, the emails get pushed to the side when prepping for the end of the school season.  So I went back, found it, clicked its link to get the 20% off code.  I am just in time!  The 20% off code expires this Friday, so I have today to announce it to you all, and tomorrow I'll do my picks post, and there you have it.  *I am so on time.*  Snort.

Anyhow, the summer season looks very lovely, especially the dresses.  The overall aesthetic is a continuation of their amazing Spring collection (I wrote about it here), but more of an emphasis on the brights, with a particular flavor of greens, blues, and pinks.  There are even some very punchy floral prints, which you are either going to love or hate (I love, but I also made this skirt last year).

I do want to point out there is a new iteration of the fun skirt, but it has been renamed the Tilda Skirt, probably to get away from the "fun" connotation.  ;-)  I am tickled, and may buy one, but I am unsure as of now, since they don't have the garment measurements up yet (WHY!?!).

Okay, so the code is 6U2J and it expires on December 30, at 11:59 pm. 

You can get to the preview here.  :-)


Also, the Boden regular site has settled into "up to 60% off" clearance time, which means the fall and winter stuff is at the lowest prices they have been all year (barring a few popular items that would have been a lower price during diminishing discounts, etc., and are not reduced by much now).  There is no code.  I have two separate review posts from this fall here and here, and my Instagram account showcases a few items.  If I grab a few moments after doing the Picks Post for Summer 2017 tomorrow, I'll do a review post of items unreviewed by me so far. 

Hope all of you are well!  I am glad to be on vacation for a bit.  I hope you all are well and have had a lovely season!

Boden: Floral Ponte Dress Review.

Hi, all!  Hope all of you have been well.  :-) 

I realize it's been a while since my last Boden review, and since I actually had an opportunity to wear something from this fall's collection this summer (most of the fall items are made from fabric not really suited for Virginia summers), I figured I could get it up before it completely sells out.

Floral Ponte Dress.  Size 8 Long.  I took a chance on buying this in preview since it was so pretty and unique that I was pretty sure it might sell out.  And it actually looks like it may just do that, based on the numbers/stock levels I am seeing today.  Others that I have noticed nearing sell out status include the Alisa Dress (in blue) and the Carolyn Ponte Dress (yellow on deep backorder).

Anyhow, the measurements were up for this one (by some miracle) in preorder, so I knew I had to buy the 8 Long in order for it to work for my frame and height.  And it does fit, with just enough ease to keep it from clinging to my curves, but still fitted.  It is a touch loose at the shoulders, bust, and waist, but anytime I purchase an 8 instead of a 6, that's what happens.

The stretch is just enough if you feel inclined to purchase a smaller size, but since I plan to wear this teaching, I would prefer the extra length and room throughout that the 8 provides.  The length is 39" and it hits right above the knee, which is typical for 39".  (42" hits right below my knee, and 37" hits two inches above the knee.  I will only go shorter than 37" if I know that it is a super loose style like I am wearing here in this Instagram photo.)

The decoration is so special, the printed border snaking up each side of the dress, and fully covering the sleeves.  The green is an army green, while the print is a nude shade, not quite tan, but definitely not white/beige, either.  The neckline and silhouette are not anything write home about, but they are both fine for day to evening, and as you can see, can be accessorized, provided you keep it on the simpler/more neutral end.

Those shoes are the Georgia Woven Sandal, btw, and I purchased them in a size 41, which is the right size for my narrow 9.5 foot.  The neutral color on the sandal matches the print on the dress, so it was the right choice for that day.  :-)

If I had sucked my tummy in even more, and got rid of my (very flat) chest, it would almost look like there is no solid green at all from the side.

If you are NOT a pear shape, this dress will likely be more a-line on you.  I clearly am a pear shape, and my thighs/hips/bottom fully fill out the skirt portion.  I wish that wasn't the case, but I do like the look of the dress as it looks on me (different from the model).  The model looks cute but not like this, at all. 

I love love love the way the print was placed on the back.  It makes me look so much thinner from the back than most dresses do.  I don't love the blue version of this dress, but had they made another colored version of it, I would be very tempted to purchase it. 

There is a zip, but I didn't need it.  I just slipped the dress on right over my head.

Okay, that's it!  Has anyone else bought this dress?  Thoughts?

BTW, if you have commented here on the blog in the past month, THANK YOU, and be assured I have read and appreciated every comment.  I will reply back.  I have been busy with a lot of swim team stuff (I am one of their in water coaches, too) and traveling, so I am now just settling into quiet time (phew).

I have a coupon from the affiliate, but do make sure to use the code 5H7B to receive the 15% off!

Boden: Summer 2016 Preview is Live!

Textured Emma Dress--a gorgeous offering!

Hi, all! 

We are slowly digging out here in the Northern Virginia area.  We received around 20 inches of snow here in Alexandria, which is quite a lot for us.  Other parts of the area (further west, in higher elevations) received upwards of 30-36".  Man.  That's a lot of snow.  We did not suffer this much snow and power outages, forcing us to escape to a hotel, but it was close.

I posted a few of my snow related escapades from this time on Instagram.  :-)

Anyhow, I received an email yesterday stating that Boden had some new styles for me to look at, and I was all, "ooh, preview time!"  I still get excited by the new styles.  I was really really hoping that this Summer's preview would make up for the lackluster spring offerings.  (I have my eye on three items from spring, that's it, normally that number is much higher.  Great for my wallet, but sad for my eye candy, I feel like a lot of what I am seeing at Boden right now is Gap circa 2001.)

I took a look around and I encourage you all to go, too.  If there is an interest in an item or two, the code for 20% off with free shipping and returns is 9R7C*.  This code expires on February 5, which is next Friday.  I should be able to get a picks post done before that point, especially if they don't add anymore items.  (Based on what I saw over there, I have slim pickings.)  :-/

*I can give codes for preview time, as these are different from what the affiliate sends me.  Yay!

Here's to hoping they add more.  I usually love the Boden summer offerings, but these seem a bit subdued, plain, and easily found at other places.  If I am paying Boden prices, I want the Boden style, especially since we here in America can get our basics at a number of places for far cheaper than Boden sells them for.

Alrighty, enjoy your Tuesday! 

OOTDs: Some Regular Clothes. Not for Teaching.

Day: Wednesday, September 16, 2015.

Where:  School Meeting followed by Winesday.

Ease of Wear: (4.5 of 5 stars--5 being the most easy to wear.) This Boden jersey dress is very comfortable, I dig that it is tighter without being constricting.  It also has shaping at the top part of the dress, which draws the eyes up from my hips/bottom, aka my "trouble" spots.

Outfit Details: Dress, Boden; Shoes, J. Crew; Sunglasses, Target; Necklace, tru.che.

Anecdote of the Day: This was the last Winesday before I left for my cruise (on the 20th).  When I got back to town, the next Winesday there were threats of no more Winesdays (NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!) and a few of my most favorite employees had received the ax, even though they were all amazing and most deserving of promotions/more money and not firings.  Stupid Whole Foods.  The Winesdays are still on (phew!), but those employees aren't back.  Boo. 

INSTAGRAM HERE.

Day: Tuesday, September 29, 2015.

Where:  Preschool, Swimming, Old Town Alexandria.

Ease of Wear: (4.75 of 5 stars--5 being the most easy to wear.)  Well, gee, I am basically wearing an adult nightgown outside, but because it is shirred just right, and not of flannel, I can wear it and not draw any suspicions.  The scarf helped keep me warm, though I ended up taking it off partway through the day. 

Outfit Details: Dress, J. Crew Factory; Sandals, J. Crew Factory; Scarf, Do Everything in Love; Sunglasses, Target.

Anecdote of the Day: I never had a preschool run where there wasn't a kid attached to me (either CW as a baby, or Angus as a baby), and wow, it certainly is freeing not having any children attached to me at all.  I really enjoyed swimming and going to Old Town with only myself to worry about.   

INSTAGRAM HERE.

Day: Sunday, October 4, 2015.

Where:  Church.

Ease of Wear: (4.25 of 5 stars--5 being the most easy to wear.) I haven't worn a formal skirt in a while.  I felt compelled to wear this because it was so gross and grey out and felt like matching the skies.  It was fairly comfy, the skirt sits well on my hips and waist, and the tights, sweatshirt, and shoes fit with just the right amount of ease.

Outfit Details: Skirt, J. Crew; Top, Boden; Shoes, J. Crew Factory, Boden; Necklace, J. Crew; Tights, Lands' End.

Anecdote of the Day:  I liked the look, but I was surprised by how many Instagram friends liked it, too.  I never do these monochromatic/neutral looks, and I guess people were happy to see me in something other than eye-searing color and pattern, lol.

INSTAGRAM HERE.

Day: Wednesday, October 7, 2015.

Where:  Funeral of a childhood friend and a school meeting.

Ease of Wear: (4.25 of 5 stars--5 being the most easy to wear.)  Well I knew I would be walking to the funeral from my school since the parking is a bear around the church where the funeral was to be held.  I also knew I would have Angus in the stroller, so I had to wear comfy shoes for that, too.  Fortunately this older Boden Limited Edition dress is made of a jersey ponte, and the shoes are flat without being so flat that they are hard to walk in.  I don't wear this dress often, but I appreciate it for occasions like this, one where reverence and formality are key.

Outfit Details: Dress, Boden Limited Edition; Shoes, FS/NY; Earrings, Macy's.

Anecdote of the Day: My friend went to grade school and high school with me, and now I teach with her mom, who I have known forever.  I feel for her mom, so if you are a praying type, do send some prayers her way and for the rest of the family.

On another note, I have now seen five of my high school friends die before age 40.  I know death is part of life, but it seem so shocking to lose so many so young.  We didn't even have that large of a graduating class (~250).  

INSTAGRAM HERE.

Day: Monday, October 5, 2015.

Where:  Very little done this day.  I may have done the school run.

Ease of Wear: (4.5 of 5 stars--5 being the most easy to wear.)  Leggings, Sandals, and a Tunic.  Yeah, 'nuff said.

Outfit Details: Tunic, Boden; Leggings, Boden; Sandals, J. Crew Factory; Necklace, tru.che.

Anecdote of the Day: If I had something to give you, I would.  I know I was happy it had finally stopped raining, after nearly four full days of constant rain.

INSTAGRAM HERE.

Day: Tuesday, October 6, 2015.

Where:  Preschool, Swimming, Huntley Meadows for a walk, and the other school run.

Ease of Wear: (4.25 of 5 stars--5 being the most easy to wear.)  I found the outfit most comfortable after wearing it for a bit.  The J. Crew Reese pants are great, but sit funny sometimes...it's like I have to find their sweet spot on my hips.  At least they come in a tall length so I can have proper full length pants.  It got really warm that afternoon.  Glad to have it, but wore the wrong top.  Oops.

Outfit Details: Sweatshirt, J. Crew Factory; Pants, J. Crew; Sandals, Birkenstock (can find them here at Amazon.com ); Sunglasses, Target.

Anecdote of the Day: I (heart) Huntley Meadows so much.  It is a local wetland/forest preserve that has a boardwalk over the wetland portion.  We always see something, whether it be a snake, a beaver, a heron, etc.  This time was huge numbers of box turtles out sunning themselves.  Every time Angus said (more like like loudly spoke), "ooh look at the turtles, Momma," they would dive off their sunning logs and go hide.  Can't blame them.  He would look terrifying to me if I was their size.

INSTAGRAM HERE.

Day: Sunday, October 11, 2015.

Where:  Lazy day at home.

Ease of Wear: (4.5 of 5 stars--5 being the most easy to wear.) I feel like I am on repeat here.  Loose fit pants, a sweatshirt, and some Birkenstocks.  'Nuff said.

Outfit Details: Sweatshirt, J. Crew; Pants, Walmart; Sandals, Birkenstock (can find them here at Amazon.com in gold and silver ); Sunglasses, A.R. Trapp.

Anecdote of the Day: My facebook feed was filled with Redskins chatter (SO BORING, GAW) or people exclaiming they had just run the Army Ten-Miler (not boring, but made me feel LAZY).  I need to go away from FB sometimes.  Better for my mental health. 

INSTAGRAM HERE.

Day: Saturday, October 10, 2015.

Where:  Housewarming Party.

Ease of Wear: (4.5 of 5 stars--5 being the most easy to wear.)  I love how polished this looks without being polished "feeling."  The Turner pants will always be in heavy rotation in my closet (every color I have fits well no matter what I am feeling that day, weight wise).  Even with the elastic banding at the cuff, they still manage to suitable for my version of dressy.  The linen Lena top is a bit wrinkle-prone, but manages to cut a nice shape without being too form-fitting.  (It actually swings away from my hips, so its a-line shape is perfect for my pear shape.)

Outfit Details:  Top, Boden (here on clearance, I took a size 6); Pants, J. Crew (they are now available in wool--yes, I bought them in grey); Shoes, Target; Sunglasses, Anthropologie.

Anecdote of the Day: Our minivan's battery died.  We manage to get it restarted and went to the housewarming party.  It started again after the party, so we went to Joann's since I needed to pick up some patterns.  That's where trouble started again.  No battery power.  We found the nicest person in the world to take ten minutes of her time after work (she had just gotten off) and she let us jump the van with her engine.  I need to make sure to pay that forward big time.  :-)

INSTAGRAM HERE.