Monday, October 30, 2017

Madewell Fitting Room Try On's: Early Winter

madewell review tops, sweaters and skirts


Is it me or does every collection Madewell puts out really good? And if you ask me, they know how to do fall and winter best. I'm actually a little behind on these fitting room reviews (oops), but all these items are the latest to hit the stores and online. There's still a whole bunch I need to pull together for a review for you. While I try to add more basics and neutrals, they do know how to fuse that with the prints they use. Now, here are the pieces that caught my eye and the full review. Oh and I also put these on my Insta Stories with video, so you can find me @adrilately 


oversized mustard sweater

mustard over sized sweater

TIER-SLEEVE PULLOVER SWEATER IN GOLDEN HARVEST $88 // SIZE XXS

Sleeves are having a big moment this year and this sweater fits right into that trend. The boatneck and drapey sleeves are Madewell's spin. It is oversized in a good way (per usual). The length of the sleeves hit at a 3/4 length, which works well if you are always finding sleeves to be too long. It is nice and cozy being that it's a wool/acrylic blend. It comes in two other colors and had to try another color (see below).

cream over sized sweater

cream chunky sweater

white statement sleeve sweater

TIER-SLEEVE PULLOVER SWEATER IN ANTIQUE CREAM $88 // SIZE XS

Okay, so I originally saw it the cream and tried it on in a bigger size. As you can see, it is a little roomier, but I think that works better for front-tucking. And you can see more of the details in this fun sweater-mixed knits and splicing at the bottom. 

cute tan button skirt

tan a-line skirt


Another big trend this season is velvet and done in this classic skirt makes for a staple. It is velveteen, which is more casual and still adds a fun texture. There is some stretch to the material, something I enjoy for comfort. However, there are no pockets, so something to keep in mind. That does make it lay flat, so style over practical perhaps. As for sizing, I don't like my skirts too short and tight. I would say it does run true to size, but did go up in size for length and more room in the waist. That's something to keep in mind if you plan to wear with chunky sweaters. Hint: See below ;)


madewell cream sweater and tan skirt

TIER-SLEEVE PULLOVER SWEATER IN ANTIQUE CREAM

I just couldn't resist pairing the velveteen skirt with the tier-sleeve sweater! I can see this working with tights and boots for colder weather ahead. 

peacock printed dress

peacock feather print dress

cute peacock print dress


If there's one thing that Madewell does so well, it's dresses. Season after season, I find they offer a dress that's classic with really special flattering touches. And ladies, this is the dress of the season! Perfect on the hanger, even better on. The V is a medium low, but not scandalous. While my ladies are on the small side, there's no issue with the V neck. I do think you may need to go up in size if you are larger chested because it is a lower empire waist. It is double lined through the body, except the sleeves. The ruffle at the bottom adds just enough femininity. My eyes are all over this number for the upcoming holiday season. 

peacock print silk top

peacock print top

cute peplum blouse

SILK BELLE TOP IN PEACOCK FEATHERS $98 // SIZE 2

Since I'm in love with the dress version (also similar to this dress I own and love), I couldn't resist trying it on. You can call this a power top. The fit highlights in the right way. I did go up a size, but do think I could do a smaller size. I'm always into a little room when there isn't any stretch in a top. It does have a side zipper, so no unbuttoning needed. However, because I went up in size I think it's too low for work. Definitely a cute date night top!

oversized cute soft cardigan


Don't ask me what too me so long to finally try on their cardigans! But maybe I secretly knew it would end up with me wanting them all. It is a blend with wool, but this is blanket cozy soft goodness! And with the oversized fit and pockets, it's a winner in every way. This is one of their key styles for the season and comes in 8 colors. You don't want to stick to your normal size or size down if possible. So if you're looking for a cardigan to live in, it's this one! For you stripe lovers, they added this version - so cute!

Have you picked anything up from their latest collection? Hope this post helps with sizing!



Thursday, October 26, 2017

Dressing for Fall When It's Still Hot





Happy Friday! It's hard to think of Fall around here with the temps hitting the 100's and 90's. Okay, maybe I am thinking about Fall. I'm dreaming of it. It doesn't seem like it's anywhere insight, but I sure keep trying. Is anyone else having crazy temperatures, too? And if I can just ask the weather gods to please send some cooler temps because this girl has suffered all summer without AC in her car? Once we got passed August, I thought I survived. And if you're wondering why I tortured myself 1) I worked a place where we parked in a structure (so shade all day) and 2) my drive home was in a canyon (aka more shade).  But now I keep carrying around cardigans and wearing booties mixed in with some of my summer pieces like this top and currently thinking this top could work right now. 

Now, let's flashback to last year's look here. Nothing like stripes, right? 

Thanks for linking up with us last week! We hope you'll join us again! Our picks this week are Amy Ann from Straight A Style and Kileen from Cute and Little!




Monday, October 23, 2017

The 3 Best Matcha Spots in LA


 

Let's be real, this post has been a long time coming. If you follow me on Instagram, you know I have a serious love for my matcha lattes. And trust me, not all are created equal. I've had the super lumpy, kinda chalky or overly milky. So often I hear that someone had a bad experience with matcha and I that just broke my matcha loving heart! For those who aren't familiar with matcha, it's a the leaves from green tea and the quality of the tea does make a difference. After doing a lot of testing in the LA area, it's these three spots that I keep coming back for more.

Olive & Thyme
Not only does this have amazing breakfast (get the quiche), but it's a spacious, light filled spot that has a matcha latte I can get behind again and again. For those who don't do dairy, this is for you. They make theirs with soy milk and I've even asked for almond milk (both are equally delicious). It does come sweetened with vanilla, but does not take away the match taste. 


The Assembly
This is the place that confirmed all my matcha testing was worth it! Originally, I started drinking their honey almond lattes, which are amazing coming from a not so big coffee drinker. But the matcha lattes are what got me fueled for work. You'll understand from the minimal decor to the friendly baristas that they put all the effort into the making a great latte (matcha or not). Not going to lie, this can be a pricey matcha latte, but they use high quality barista milk and Panatea matcha. This is so LA, but you can expect to see all the cute dogs here. Oh, and come on a Friday morning. They offer Donut Snob donuts on Fridays. 


Matcha Box
Feeling adventurous? Come grab something from MatchBox. The menu is nothing like I've seen-playful and so refreshing! From drink names like Matcha Bitch and unique pairings with ginger, this place will have you begging for more. Every sip is so velvety and carefully balance. My personal favorite is the Joules, which has matcha, ginger and almond milk. Personally, I prefer all their drinks iced. The small spot isn't one to linger around, though. So I don't recommend trying to meet up someone for catching up. It is relatively close to The Grove, that you could walk to and from. That also might save you a headache from searching for street parking.  

Are you a matcha lover? If you know of any spots to try, let me know. I can never say no to a good matcha spot!    

Thursday, October 19, 2017

Casual Neutral Outfit for Fall

jacket (on sale!) // tank // jeans // espadrilles // purse // sunglasses

Happy Friday Friends! There's nothing like experimenting with neutrals. Basically, you can end up with a limitless wardrobe (who doesn't want that?!). And you want to know what? This look is actually from last year here. You probably couldn't tell. All these pieces are still in my closet and get worn, except those espadrilles had to be replaced because the soles were coming off. Yes, I wore them to death and then bought another pair. This might also be a reminder for myself to keep adding neutrals to my closet. And speaking of neutrals here are some from the sale over at Madewell because hello extra 30% off-RIDICULOUS (code: GOODLOOKS) like this sweater, plaid shawl, and this knot-tie long sleeve

While I didn't think this through, but I did have an actual outfit to post. I've been dog sitting across town in Santa Monica all week (aka living there) and didn't bring my picture files. The dog owner is super sweet to let me use her computer, but I also can't navigate it (and feel a little weird poking around). So just know I'm on the struggle bus trying to make today's linkup post happen.

Thank you for linking up, FOR REAL! Our picks are Ruth from My Little Nest and Grace from Color and Grace! I would insert the image, but I can't find it on this computer lol. Am I getting old or what?




Thursday, October 12, 2017

The Best of Madewell's Sale Section


Happy Friday! It's even a happier one because there are quite a few pieces that I LOVE that have been added to Madewell's sale section (insert hands up emoji). You might remember a few or a lot of these from previous fitting room reviews. But these are just too good to pass up!

cream sweater

TIE-CUFF PULLOVER SWEATER $79.99 (Now $49.99) // Wearing XXS
It's an oversized sweater that has a little something but still a great basic. It comes in several colors and looks like you put more effort into your outfit. There's enough room to do the half-tuck in the front, too.

floral silk dress

SILK POPPY DRESS IN WILD BOTANIC $148 (Now $99.99) // Wearing Size 6
This little dress is just that good! I'm honestly shocked to see it's been marked down already! It does seem to run a tad small in the waist and I'm only wearing a bigger size because that's all they had. It has the right length and not cut too low making it work appropriate, but the shape totally makes it happy hour ready.

black and white gingham dress

GINGHAM RUFFLE DRESS $98 (Now $34.99!) // Wearing Size 0
I personally own this one (you can see it here) and for this insane sale price it just doesn't get better than that! 

star print top

WRAP SHIRT IN STAR SCATTER $75 (Now $49.99) // Wearing XS
Let me just say (again), I'm not that into star prints but this cute top changed my mind! It's so cute and with some white jeans and jean jacket, it's so easy to style. It is short in length, so keep that in mind. You could only wear this with high-waisted pants.

navy silk top

SILK RUFFLE-SLEEVE TOP IN CACTUS PRINT $98 (Now $54.99) // Wearing XS
Totally fell in love with this top the second I saw it and trying it on only confirmed it's great. I picked it up recently and have been wearing it so much. It has a V in the back and tried it on at home with it in the front and you wouldn't even know. So it can work worn two ways. 





Thanks again to everyone who linked up with us! Jessica and I always look forward to reading your posts! Our picks are Kristina from The Kontemporary and Tilden from To Be Bright!



Thursday, October 5, 2017

Fall Layering for Warmer Climates





cardi c/o old navy // top // jeans // espadrilles (on sale!) // purse // sunglasses // earrings

Let's be real, LA is one of last places that gets actual fall temperatures. It usually starts out cooler in the mornings and by midday you're regretting your outfit choice. Rather than packing away all my summer tops and dresses, they're getting the chance to mingle with my cardigans that I've picked up oh since July. Somedays I'll even venture and swap my espadrilles for booties. But if there's one cardigan that I reach for every season it's this one! They keep bringing it back each season and this year I picked it up in two colors. If you love having pockets, it doesn't get better than this for the price! And if you worked with me at my last job, you probably thought this was the only sweater I owned (last seen here). 

Now, it's time to take a look at last year's outfit here. The jean culotte is something I still find hard to wear, but a fun way to change it up from the typical skinny jean. What do you think?

Thank you for joining the linkup! Everyone has great posts! This week we are featuring Shauna from Lipgloss and Lace and Jules from Scorse of Styles