My Shopping Process: An Example
This post is some insight into how I approach online shopping. I recently purchased three pieces from Anthropologie, and here’s how it went. I wrote down my thoughts before I completed the purchase, what made me purchase these items, and then how I felt about them upon their arrival this afternoon.
Pilcro Classic Denim Jacket
Before: I’ve been on the lookout for a good blue jean jacket. Although the dark-wash, solid versions appeal to me, I don’t tend to actually wear that color or jeans that are that wash, so a mid-blue with more varied colors is what I want. Additionally, though I’ve tried others and have a couple that aren’t, the original Pilcro jean jacket cut is my favorite. It fits me high on the waist in the back, slopes in the front, and has structure without being too rough. I see this piece with:
Blue jeans as the top of a Texas tuxedo
The bird skirt I just got
Possibly an orange print maxi skirt I have that has blue in it
Blue/grey/black maxi skirt
Terrazzo tank
The Purchase: Anthro was having a sale (30% off!) so it was a good time to try the jean jacket. I can also be pretty confident of the size I want, because of having two others. Basically, this is a sure thing, unless it doesn’t fit or the color is completely off.
The Verdict: I tried this on last and, honestly, I’m disappointed. I shouldn’t have written that it was a sure thing! The fit and quality are both really good; it is a very soft, comfortable denim with nice stretch. It is the most straight-up comfortable of the Pilcro jean jackets I’ve tried. But it’s the wrong color for my closet. When it clashed with my favorite blue jeans, I decided to try it with a few other pieces anyway, and it just didn’t work. If you’re thinking “it looks perfectly fine and it’s not terrible, you even said it was great quality!” you are correct. However it doesn’t click with me or my closet, so it’s not worth spending the money on it (even at 30% off), or the space it would take in my closet. I need a denim that’s a little more blue, a touch lighter, not so green. The search continues!
Romy Tapered Pants
Before: I love white bottoms for summer, as I feel like I have already extolled many times in the ~four months I’ve been writing this blog. However, in the course of vetting my wardrobe, I have ultimately gotten rid of all of my other white jeans and pants for fit reasons. This leaves a gaping hole in this style function. I see these with:
Most of my warm weather tops, honestly
Cropped jackets
Sandals and sneaks
The Purchase: These pants look like should fit high on the waist (my preference), but not tight on the leg (comfortable), though still tapered to the ankle (flattering). Some of the reviews said they were see-through, but that’s my expectation with white pants so unless it’s an egregious problem, that’s a non-issue for me. If it’s not comfortable or looks terrible with what I’d like to pair it with, it’ll go back.
The Verdict: I really dig these pants. The fit is spot on, especially in the waist, which is what really sold me. The legs are comfortable and then ankles fit well, though I’d prefer them a touch shorter maybe. The fit isn’t the most flattering, but they are comfortable and the lightness will be very nice come hot summer weather. I think they look more see-through than they actually are (better than the opposite) which is fine by me. I didn’t end up trying this on with that many tops because I was sold on them almost immediately. Absolutely keeping!
Moira Bias Midi Dress
Before: There was something about this dress that intrigued me. Because it has limited pictures, it was difficult to get an idea of what the fit will be like or even what the exact colors are because there’s no close up picture. But I was intrigued by its possibilities. I liked the length, the print (like a mix of floral, animal, and abstract), the sleeves (not too long, but shoulder coverage is nice when you fry like a lobster), and that it might drape well. I see this piece with:
White or blue jean jackets
Black belt
Grey sweater
Mushroom cardigan
The Purchase: Between the sale and the fact that I was ordering other pieces, I wanted to give this a try. This is piece most likely to be returned.
The Verdict: I’m not sure. The fit is good. The colors are good. It styles pretty well. I’m just not sure! I like a lightning moment (when you try something and just think YES, which is what happened with the white pants), or clear disappointment (basically what happened with the denim jacket), and I don’t have either of those. I liked it the most with the white jean jacket or on its own, and I do like pieces styled that way. I think I’ll try it on tomorrow and see how I feel, but I generally advise that indecision isn’t a good sign, so likely it’ll go back.
Two out of three ain’t bad!