J Crew - silk organza starburst dress

J Crew's silk organza starburst dress (34498) runs 0-14. The color choices are black and pale plum.


I'm thrilled that Roxy of Effortless Anthropologie is sharing her review of the starburst dress and irl pics! If you don't know Roxy, y'should. Be sure to visit her blog, a behemoth of all things Anthro. Her blog & community have been so much help when I shop the store. Sooooooo very helpful! Onto the review:

Thanks so much to Gigi for letting me write this guest post! I love J.Crew's party dresses, most recently their Silk Organza Starburst Dress. I decided the dress would be perfect for a few of my upcoming holiday parties and was delighted to learn that J.Crew's Bridal Boutique here in NYC carried the dress.


I am 5'8" and between a 6 and an 8 in J.Crew's dresses. In their normal line I tend to be a 6 and in the collection pieces I tend to wear an 8. I'm also pretty busty (34D) so to be safe I asked for this dress in an 8 and a 10.


I tried the black on first. I had two concerns about this dress: first was whether it would look OK on my curvy frame or not. Wow is this dress ever flattering! I fretted about the starburst right over the hip but in real life it actually pulls the eye in, making me feel thinner. The top starbust equaled out my proportions nicely. The pleats laid flat with minimal primping from me and the view was great from the front, either side and even the back. There's a considerable amount of boning in the dress so ladies who are comfortable could go braless. I found the length was perfect for a party dress and I liked how light it felt on. It also passed my dressing room dance test -- I could move and shuffle without the dress sliding either up or down.
  

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To begin with I tried on a 10 (not shown) but found it too large, so it was on to the 8. The photos of the black dress are all size 8. The bodice portion of the 8 fit perfectly but the skirt portion was a little loose. I wanted this dress to cinch in a bit more at my waist.


So for the plum I went down to a 6. Unfortunately while the skirt portion felt great and I loved how my waist look I couldn't zip the top all the way. Sigh. Classic issue for me. I will purchase this dress in the 8. Overall I think this is a beautiful dress that I'll get use from for years. I can't wait to order it! 

click image for larger view

Roxy, the dress looks fantastic on you. I vote for the pale plum color, if you're on the fence between the two. It shows off the starburst gathering. Thank you so very much for guest blogging! Anytime, girl, anytime.

Fancy readers, if you want to guest blog, you're more than welcome. I prefer to have irl pics included as that's quite helpful in addition to the commentary. You don't have to be wordy or witty, either. Just sharing your thoughts if fine by me.


Anyone have their eye on this beauty? Try or own it...?


Chime in...
♥
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p.s. Remember Ebates. Click here to join. I'm getting so good at remembering!

Fall Fab Five: Fabulous Florida Mommy

Gigi welcomes guest blogger...

Fabulous Florida Mommy

When I sat down to write my post for Gigi's Fab Fall 5 series, I had initially thought my list was going to be filled with new items that I would like to get this year. However, the more I thought about it, the more I realized that the items I am most excited about wearing right now are already in my closet! :)

1) Topping my Fab Fall 5 list is my Albertus Swanepoel™ for J.Crew fedora in leopard. Now, I will admit to having a slight obsession with animal prints (leopard in particular), so when I first saw this fedora in the J.Crew Fall 2010 Look Book, I knew it was a *must have* for me. Then I saw the price...ouch! It was definitely a lot more than I would normally pay, especially for a hat, but since I knew it was highly unlikely to ever go on sale, I just bit the bullet and placed my order. That was one of the best shopping decisions I've ever made. I absolutely adore it! It is such an incredibly flattering and comfortable hat to wear and receives numerous compliments anytime it is worn. I know it is being offered on the J.Crew website again this year, so if you are contemplating one for yourself, I would highly recommend giving it a try. :)

2) Next on my list is the J.Crew Icon Trench. After many years of pining for this one, I was finally able to get it at a great price at the end of last year when J.Crew ran one of their Outerwear promos. Unfortunately, we had a very mild winter in Florida last year, and I never had the opportunity to break it in, so I am anxiously awaiting our first *cool down* of the year to bring it out of hibernation.

3) Continuing my list of the Fab Fall 5 is my Wightwick Manor Dress by Maeve, which I purchased from Anthropologie last year. I love everything about this dress...the silhouette, the color, the fabric, the print, plus it looks especially cute when paired with knee boots (which I love to wear during the cooler weather months). This is also a perfect day dress since it is very comfortable to wear and the length allows you to bend over without fear of *overexposure*. Definitely another at the top of my list to bring out of hibernation as soon as the weather cools down

4) Oh how I have been waiting to wear my Tory Burch 'Greta' Wedge Clogs again! (I spend most of my spring and summer in sandals or flip flops, so I really look forward to the fall and winter when my closed-toed shoes and boots make their way to the front of my wardrobe rotation.) These were another sale score last year, and another shopping decision that I am extremely pleased with...once again, I love everything about them.

They really are the focal point of any outfit when you wear them, so my favorite looks are when the clothing is kept basic or understated, like in this Polyvore I created when I wore them in January of last year:

5) The final item on my list is the J.Crew Sparkle Plaid Tweed Pencil Skirt which first debuted back in 2008. I have been searching for this skirt shortly after returning it all those years ago. I'm not sure what I was thinking at the time...must have been a momentary lapse of reason or temporary insanity. Whatever the reason, I have been regretting it ever since...up until the beginning of last month, that is, when another JCA contacted me after seeing my post on the JCA Weekly Exchange {Looking to Find} thread over on the J.Crew Aficionada blog.

She knew that I had been searching for quite some time and was kind enough to offer me hers, and in MINT condition, no less! Needless to say, I was absolutely thrilled and cannot wait to wear it this fall. The above picture is the one that was on the J.Crew website while it was available, and below is a photo I took of the skirt so you can see just how pretty it is closer up.






So there you have it...my Fab Fall 5. Now I just need the Florida weather to cooperate and give me plenty of days with cooler temps so that I have lots of opportunities to wear them (and the other 50 or so on my list). :)

*I want to say THANK YOU to Gigi for asking me to write a guest post while she is taking a little time off to enjoy being with Mini G. We miss you Gigi and look forward to seeing you again soon! :)

xoxo,

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Thanks, Fabulous Florida Mommy!

♥

Fall Fab Five: You, Me and Anthropologie

Gigi welcomes guest blogger...



Hey everyone! Sara from You, Me and Anthropologie here. So I don't know about you guys, but I love fall. It's hands down my favorite season of the year. I love the cooler temperatures, the colorful leaves, carving pumpkins, going to haunted houses, shopping on Black Friday, being able to eat a little bit more at dinner (no one will notice that extra 5lbs with all the layers that you have on), and of course, I can't forget about all of the amazing fall clothing items/accessories that are out there.

Which leads me to my list of five items that I can't wait to wear/purchase this fall. This list was definitely not an easy one to make because there's so much great stuff out there for fall, but I think I've finally narrowed it down to my top five. Let's see what made the cut, shall we?

1) The Color Red
If you've been out shopping recently, then you know that this color is everywhere in all the stores for fall. I've seen red purses, red hats, red coats, red shoes, red dresses...you name it, I've probably seen it out there in some shade of red. I'm not complaining though because red is one of my favorite colors to wear and wearing red accessories is a great way to add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. You can also turn heads at an event/get together this fall by showing up in a red dress or red pumps.

Anthropologie Stitched Scarlet Cloche

Anthropologie Ruffled Shell

Anthropologie Noon & Night Dress

2) Anthropologie Bowed Lacerta Mary-Janes
These cute little shoes are number one on my Anthropologie wishlist right now. The honey brown and dark red colors are perfect for the fall season and since they're a neutral color, I think they'll go really well with a lot of the skirts and dresses in my closet.

3) Tights
If you read my blog, then you know that I don't wear pants ever, so tights are an essential part of my wardrobe come fall so that I don't freeze! Even if they didn't keep me warm, I'd probably still wear them all the time because I love the unique/fun designs that the different stores come up with to put on them. Another great thing about tights is that they're a great conversation starter. If you're going somewhere where you don't know anyone, put on a cute pair of tights and I swear you'll have at least 5 people come up and want to talk to you.

Anthropologie Textured Dots Tights

ModCloth Bow-dacious Lady Tights


J.Crew Solid Opaque Tights in Decadent Red


4) Dark Nail Colors I love my bright/pastel polishes because they're more "me" and are usually more work appropriate, but sometimes it's fun to throw on a vampy red or a dark purple polish. They're easier for me to pull off in the fall because they go well with the dark colors I'm usually wearing and I can easily hide my hands in the sleeves of my cardigans if need be at work :)

Essie Carry On

Essie Power Clutch

5) Scarves I wear scarves all year round, but you'll definitely see me wearing them a lot more during the fall season. Not only do they help keep me warm in my cold office, but they're also really soft and comfortable (perfect to wear on those cold days when you just don't want to get out of bed). If you're running late for work and only have time to throw on a simple/plain outfit, be sure to grab a scarf on the way out the door. It will spice up your outfit and no one will ever know that you didn't take a good 10-15 minutes to get dressed that morning.

ModCloth Heart Habit to Break Scarf

J.Crew Printed Scarf in Wool in Red Ivory

*Bonus*

If you haven't tried this drink, run (don't walk) to your nearest Starbucks and get one. I promise, you won't regret it! It's basically just steamed apple juice, cinnamon syrup, caramel sauce, and whipped cream (I usually skip this) blended together. It's perfect for you non-coffee drinkers out there (like me) and great to have on those cold fall/winter days.

Caramel Apple Spice from Starbucks

Hope you enjoyed reading about my five must-have items for fall! Be sure to let me know what you're looking forward to buying/wearing this fall. Thanks again to Gigi for asking me to guest post :) Hope everything goes well with the delivery of baby Gigi!

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Thanks, Sara!

♥

p.s. Remember Ebates. Click here to join.

Fall Fab Five: Mix and Match Fashion

Gigi welcomes guest blogger...




Hi everyone! I'm Tara, and you can find me over at Mix and Match Fashion. Gigi asked me to guest blog for her while she's off doing important things like being a mommy :)

Fall is swiftly approaching, and thus comes the oh-so-fun wardrobe change over. I'm looking forward to acquiring / wearing many things this fall, and here are my top 5:

1) Animal Print
Animal print is so much fun, and it comes on so many things: belts, hats, shoes, blouses....how can one ever choose??

1) Ann Taylor Leandra Platform Shootie
2) Ann Taylor Leopard Print Trench Blouse

2) Green Denim
Colored denim is another hot trend, and for some reason I seem to have become obsessed with acquiring a pair in green.

1) Shown: Gap 1969 mid-weight legging jeans in island palm

Other green denim options:
1) Forever 21
2) J Brand

3) Striped Sweaters
Striped tops and dresses were some of my go-to items this summer, and I have a feeling that trend will continue this fall.

1) Shown: J Crew Mohair rugby-stripe sweater

Other striped sweater options:
1) LOFT
2) Banana Republic

4) Cognac Boots
I know these Steve Madden boots are played out and it seems like EVERYONE has them, but I don't care, I love them....and I'm convinced they go with everything!

1) shown: Steve Madden Intyce

other cognac boot options:
1) Target
2) Frye
3) Bandolino

5) Bright Bottoms
If you read my blog, you already know that I LOVE color, and I am so happy to see so many fun, bright offerings for the fall!

1) J Crew No 2 Pencil Skirt
2) J Crew Cafe Capri

Feel free to stop by my blog and let me know what you are loving this fall!
~ Tara of Mix and Match Fashion

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Thanks, Tara!

♥

p.s. Remember Ebates. Click here to join.

Fall Fab Five: Stuff Jewish Girls Like

Gigi welcomes guest blogger...

Stuff Jewish Girls Like

1. Anthropologie's Tupelo Dress
Beautiful silk, dreamy cut, and pockets. POCKETS, people! Plus, blue is going to be a big color for fall.


2. Anthropologie's Trench coat skirt
I love the length and weight of this piece! The creative trench coat-inspired design is a bonus.


3. J. Crew's Mona Leather Pumps in Pale Peacock
This color is SO dreamy. It's not really a fall color, per se, but I think it'll work well for winter--summer. And I'll probably cave and buy it during the fall. So, into the list of fall items it goes.


4. Anthropologie's Points-of-Light Oxfords
Chie Mihara makes my heart go pitter-patter.


5. Kate Spade's Ahead of the Curve Bangle
I took the bar exam in July, and I have set aside this bangle to buy for myself if I pass. I am really hoping this bangle makes its way into my closet in the fall...more for its significance than for my love of the actual item.

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FYI, SJGL recently returned from a trip abroad. Check out some of her lovely shopping and food pics.

Thanks, SJGL!

♥

p.s. Remember Ebates. Click here to join.

Fall Fab Five: Musings on the Mountain

Gigi welcomes guest blogger...

Musings on the Mountain

Hello everyone! It’s AppGal from Musings on the Mountain. I am super thrilled and honored that the fab Gigi asked me to contribute to her guest post series, Fall Fab Five while she is um…busy with so many more important things right now. :-) Gigi, I wish you ALL the best with everything coming up. We are all so excited and happy for you!

Now to my list of the Fab Five items for fall:

#1
J. Crew Hacking Jacket in bright flame
I have been pining for this jacket ever since it hit the website a few weeks ago. I have not purchased it yet, but fully intend to as soon as a promotion hits the website. I adore this color…it is SO fall and so yummy! This would be the perfect jacket for crisp fall days spent in a pumpkin patch or going for a hayride…or just a regular day at school :-)


#2
J. Crew Flair skirt in pine
Y’all know I love my pencil skirts, but sometimes it’s nice to wear something with a different shape. I have really gotten into longer a-line skirts recently, so I was really happy to see this skirt in the recent j.crew rollout. In fact, I might even want this skirt more than I want the No. 2 pencil in veridian green! This pine color will be perfect going from fall to winter.


#3
ASOS button-pocket midi skirt in orange
I have already purchased this skirt after scouring the internet for weeks looking for an orange midi skirt. I ordered this in my usual size 4 at first, but it was too snug at my natural waist (a common problem for me with these high-waisted midi skirts). I exchanged it for a size 6 and it is much better. This is a lovely, full skirt that I think will be surprisingly versatile, despite its shocking color!


#4
Land’s End Canvas Ava Mid-heel clogs
I ordered these after buying the fantastic LEC LivingSocial deal. I wasn’t expecting to LOVE them, but really just wanted to see what this clog trend was all about and if I could pull it off. Well, I ended up falling in love with these clogs as soon as I put them on my feet. Can’t wait to wear them with…everything! These will work with pants, skirts, dresses, the whole shebang. The camel leather is a lovely color for fall, too.


#5
Essie nailpolish in Clambake
I know this isn't a clothing item, but I am so excited to wear this nail color on my nails this fall. If you haven't noticed from some of the above items, I am really loving the bright oranges right now, and this color is a great match for those. It also looks great with camel and navy. I actually can't think of a color it wouldn't look good with! On nails, it is a reddish tinted orange, very bright but oh-so-lovely.

And there you have it…the fab 5 items I am most excited about for this fall! I'm ready for the weather to turn cooler and leaves to start changing...bring it on!

Thanks for reading!
~ App Gal

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Thanks, AppGal!

♥

p.s. Remember Ebates. Click here to join.