What's in Your Macchiato? Engineers Spotted!

It was chilly and windy today, but signs of Spring are evident.

I had to make a deal with the bees to take this photo.




Macchiato Jumper - by Zehaval - Anthro Atlanta Orig $148 Sale $40 - Jan 2011
Haviland Sweatercoat - by Monogram - eBay using EZSniper $96 Dec 2010 - Vintage Anthro Orig $168 from Oct 2007
Vintage Tatted Snowflake Ornament Necklace - Jan 2011
Warm Sugar Bracelet - Etsy Shop MudandMint $43 -
Opal, Calcite, Bronzite, Moonstone, Rutilated Quartz - May 2009



The rich, chocolate brown corduroy of Anthro's MACCHIATO JUMPER by Zehaval, seemed appropriate for a blustery day.  The lacy bodice and hemline like Buttercream for a Chocolate Layered Dress.

Shop the Macchiato in Size 4 on eBay HERE

I am wearing a 6.  The dress runs small.

By the time I left the Park, my hair was a poofy, wind tossed mess. 

More Buttercream in the form of the HAVILAND SWEATERCOAT by Monogram.

I swear, seeing myself in this much sought after Anthro coat is magical. After 2.5 years of loosing auctions on this rare coat, I used a Snipping Service to bid and WIN.  I wasn't even following the closing auction at the time.  This is a completely hassle and stress free way to win.





Macchiato Jumper - by Zehaval - Anthro Atlanta Orig $148 Sale $40 - Jan 2011
Plum Paisley Tights - by Tintoretta - Anthro Orig $18 Sale $10 - Nov 2010
Charlotte Ivory Combo - by Re-Mix Vintage Footwear - $178 - Nov 2008
Vintage Tatted Snowflake Ornament Necklace - Jan 2011
Warm Sugar Bracelet - Etsy Shop MudandMint $43
Opal, Calcite, Bronzite, Moonstone, Rutilated Quartz - May 2009



The idea to wear Anthro's PLUM PAISLEY TIGHTS by Tintoretta with the Macchiato, came from another Blogger.  Please reach out and cyber smack me right in the middle of my forehead, because I can't remember who it was. 

Will the originator of this idea Please step forward and take credit!

If I had stepped in front of a full length mirror this morning, I might have reconsidered wearing my CHARLOTTE'S in IVORY by Re-Mix Vintage Shoes.  The light color seems out of place when I look at the full picture.  But when I look at the dress down, the shoes fit the picture.



Shop the Charlotte's in Ivory and other colors at Re-Mix HERE





Vintage Tatted Snowflake Ornament Necklace - Jan 2011

 This is the only Snowflake to hit Bakersfield all Winter.  And it's a beautiful one at that.  Thanks Mom!

Bees were crawling all over these bushes, but not one landed in my photo.

VINTAGE TATTED SNOWFLAKE NECKLACE




Warm Sugar Bracelet - Etsy Shop MudandMint $43
Opal, Calcite, Bronzite, Moonstone, Rutilated Quartz - May 2009

  MudandMint is one of my favorite Etsy Jewelry Shops.  The owner went on vacation in 2009.  She was supposed to re-open a few months later.  I'm still waiting for a notification.  Nothing in over 1.5 years. 

WARM SUGAR BRACELET by Esty Shop MudandMint

What about those Engineers?

I spotted a couple of guys and one gal by the lake at RiverWalk Park next to my office.  They had this gadget on the grass.

Gas powered winch!

They were putting this large wood object in the lake.  Initially, I thought they were dredging the lake for a body.  Don't laugh!  People have drowned in the lake before.

They told me what they used this winch for.  I was amazed. 

Then it hit me!  I asked if they were Engineers.  Yes, from San Diego State.  I knew it. 

Ski Jump - If you look closely you can see the winch line running through the Photo!

They use the gas powered winch to pull them across the lake on Wake Boards.  Ingenious!  They built this contraption and the jump.

Only an Engineer would think of this.  Unlike canal surfing with an automobile tow, this is legal. 

You may recall that I submitted my Tax Returns last Monday.  My State refund has was deposited on Saturday.  That is an amazing turn around.

Are yours done yet?  May I suggest Turbo Tax.  It's fast and easy! BTW, I am not getting paid for the suggestion. I just want to help!

Anthro Sister Macchiato Love, Laura (lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com)



ANTHROOOOOOOOO.......Returns - OOTD - Free Ship - 1 Review - 1 Score

ANTHROOOOOO…….Thanks for Free Shipping.  But...

16 Days is Not Acceptable for Return Credit

Just when I thought you understood

Fast return credits are always GOOD

The last was back in under TEN

I knew you couldn’t repeat that again

I mailed three boxes in the last two weeks

This latest return rate totally stinks

I am dying for those Miss Allbright boots

But you’re holding all my Anthro loot

I despise waiting for Return Credits from Anthro.  All my credits are ear-marked for ...you guessed it, more Anthro. Why is it they trust me enough to return defective products?  And will even mail out a new item without me having to pay for the item again.  So doesn’t it make sense to trust me to return unwanted items and just give me online or store credit?  Is anyone else now experiencing this sudden down time in return rate after last months awesome 10 day returns? 

I’m a little behind on posting OOTD’s.  This one is from Thursday.  The day I moved into my dreaded CUBICLE.  Here is where I was.  Here is where I went...

Cubicle 145D.  Sounds like a Bra size.

Where the hell am I supposed to put my maps? THE FLOOR! Poo!

Polka Peppered Dress - by Maeve - Anthro Orig $148, Sale $80 - May 2010

Buy it here in size 10, size 6, and size 2.

I never knew I was a Polka Dot enthusiast. But then, I never saw a Polka Dot I could love before Anthro.  The first time I saw this dress was on Heidi D.  We were in the Monterey CA store.  Christine too!  I Wish Listed this the minute we arrived home.  Then patiently waited for sale.  I believe this dress dropped to a phenomenal $30.  I'm not unhappy with $80. I do have to use the straps.



Curio Collar Jacket - by Idra - Anthro Orig $158 - Feb 2010

Buy it here in size 12.



I had to have this Jacket the minute I first set eyes on it. This is only the second time I have worn it.  The first time was with a Silk Leifsdottir Blouse.  The sleeve kept getting caught up in the brooch of the jacket.  So it was time to find something more suitable to style is with. I think I found the perfect mate in the Polka Peppered Dress.

I love the light pole coming out of my head. 
Since I am the photographer, there is no one to blame but me today.

Anthro's description of the Dress claimed Navy.  Ha!  It's Black. So Black tights seemed a suitable counterpart.  And to throw in a bit of color, I added Anthro's Limoncello Necklace. 

Limoncello Necklace - Anthro Sale $30 - Feb 2009

And the finishing touches include:

All Leather Handbag in Ink - by Orla Kiely AW08

PerriBerri Orig $620, Sale $400 - March 2009

and the very cool

Quelusia Heels by Re-Mix Vintage Footwear

Anthro Orig $228, Sale $100 - July 2008

Shop Re-Mix Vintage and these shoes here

Now for a Quick No Anthro Zone Review: The Dog Trot Cardi by Monogram (HWR).  Was $128, now on sale for $70.

Shop the Dog Trot Cardi here.

The last HWR (Monogram) Sweater I ordered (the Chocolate Box Cardi) was horribly itchy.  I am pleased to say this Cardi is wonderful.  Maybe a little scratchy feeling, but definitely not itchy. I ordered the Brown Colorway with Pink Dogs.

SIZE:  I ordered by normal size SMALL. 5’6” tall, 125 lbs, 35-27-36, with narrow shoulders. 

FIT:  The fit is excellent.  The sleeves are not too long.  The hem length is right below the hips as it should be.

DETAILS:  This is a Grandma/Grandpa Cardi.  If you don’t like that style, then outfit the Cardi with something ultra feminine.  I am on the look out for a ruffled Pink or Yellow dress preferably. Although a blouse might do the trick. There is an extra Button/Yarn tag included. This is hand wash, lay flat to dry.

The sweetest detail is the little Pink Scottie Dog under the left Pocket. His collar is Yellow with a Gold Puffer Heart tag.

Regarding negative reviews:  I am sensitive to wool, and did not find this sweater itchy. A little rough? Yes!  I had plenty of room in the sleeves.  They did not feel tight on my arms.  Maybe that would be an issue if I wore a blouse with sleeves. I didn’t at all find the knit to appear cheap.  There were no seems that appeared torn or ripped.  Due to the print of the knit, I think that is an illusion.

This product is recommended with a full 5 stars from GeoInCalifornia – Order TTS or down if between sizes.

And look what I scored for $30 yesterday from the August Catalog. I'm thinking I might wear it with the Dog Trot Cardi.  Hmmm, what can I add for color? What shoes should I wear?  Pink?

Doubly Adorned Dress - by Floreat - Anthro Orig $148, Sale $30 - Oct 2010

Check out the beautiful Red weave my wonderful Sara added to my hair.  It's pretty bright now, but should tone down in a week or two.

The sky was so lovely at 7 am this morning.  Laura in the Sky with Diamonds!  If that doesn't beat all!

Anthro Sister Love, Laura  (lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com)  email me anytime.  I love to hear from my Readers.

Monday's OOTD - Vintage Dressy with Anthro's Babergh and a One Hit Wonder

Before I forget I must tell you about a brand of Vintage Dresses my friend Heidi D. stumbled upon.  She was running the Disneyland 1/2 Marathon.  After the run she found a dress shop near the hotel. The dresses run small.  So order 2 sizes up from your normal size.  The fabric has lots of stretch.

Shop Stop Staring Dresses here.   See Stop Staring Blog here.

I haven't seen an OOTD for the Babergh Dress. Am I the first to share my clumsy interpretation of what I should style around this fabulous dress?  I seriously doubt it. I'm actually a little nervous about letting the proverbial cat out of the bag.  I purchased nothing special to go with the dress except the tights that Anthro suggests.

And what could be more special than using my new camera to introduce Outfit #1 with the Babergh Dress.  Although I did have some red eye issues.  Plus, this is one battery eating camera.

This is my Vintage Dressy Outfit.  Most appropriate for Weddings, Church, Garden Parties, or a Special Dinner Date.  I'm working it into my Monday morning staff meeting.  Should fit right in with the oily smell and dusty steel toed boots.

Babergh Dress - by Floreat - Anthro $188 - Sept 2010

Shop this dress here.
See me review this dress here.
See Chrissy of Passion for Fashion wearing this dress here.
See Tien of Adiaphane wearing this dress here.

If you haven't checked the Anthro site lately, the Babergh stock is running low.  No backorder dates are evident. Sizes 2 through 8 are still available.  I am wearing size 4, which fits as if it were custom made for me.




Prima Ballerina Cardigan - by Manoush - Anthro Orig $268, on sale $70 - Nov 2008

A few weeks before I ordered this beautifully soft 100% Merino Wool Sweater by Manoush, I ordered a cheaper version almost just like it.

Attic Eaves Cardi - Anthro orig $118, sale $60 - Nov 2008



The Attic Eaves Cardi was sale priced at $60, while the Prima Ballerina Cardi was sale priced at $160.  So I decided to go with the $60 Cardi.  It was a major disappointment. The wool was stiff, scratchy and had an odd appearance.  Similar to attic insulation.  Tea stained my butt.  The Pink color was hideous.  So I returned the Attic Eaves to Anthro Online.  The same day, the Prima Ballerina Cardi received a 2nd cut to $70.  So I crossed by fingers and hoped I would love this Cardi.  It is absolutely amazing to this day, even after 2 years.

Shop Manoush Sweaters here.

Dotty Cluster Tights - by Eloise - Anthro $16 - Sept 2010

Shop my Lavender tights here. 


The Dotty Cluster Tights are the only other item in this outfit that is new.  I shopped my closet for the Cardi and the Shoes.  Both items are from 2008.

Charlotte - Ivory Combo  - Re-Mix Vintage Footwear $178 -  Nov 2008

Shop my Charlotte's and many other Vintage styles at Re-Mix here.

(you will have to call the store in Hollywood CA to order) 

 The website has an info page with the phone number here.

You can see Anjuli of Goldenmeans wearing her Art Deco's from Re-Mix here.

Re-Mix Vintage Footwear is a brand that is often carried by Anthro.  I have several pairs purchased from Anthro and a few directly from Re-Mix.  Love them all. Very well made and comfortable.

If you order, be sure to remind the store clerk to destroy your credit card information after placing your order.  I only suggest this because shortly after I ordered a pair of shoes from Re-Mix, I had someone attempt to use my credit card info at Macy's online.  Luckily Macy's tagged the attempt and refused the order.


 


Shinning Eddie Bracelet in Purple - by Tataborello - Anthro orig $218, sale $100 
Italy - Jun 2010

  I love Tataborello jewelry.  I recently learned that the designer is a women who suffers from Rheumatoid Arthritis. If you would like to see her 2010 collection and learn more about her designs, you can visit the website here.  (note: the website does not sell jewelry)

Did you like my styling for the Babergh?  I think of it as my Vintage Dressy Outfit. 

What do you think of the Prima Ballerina Cardi by Manoush? 

It's the only Manoush item in my closet.  When I looked at Manoush on Shop Style I didn't see anything that interested me. I didn't buy this Cardi simply because the sale price was outstanding.  I loved the snap front and the Silk Skirt detailing. However, it's not very versatile.

Do you have a "One Hit Wonder" item in your closet? An item by a brand that you normally would not buy?

Leave a comment. Please tell us your story regarding your "One Hit Wonder" item.

I have a couple more outfits planned that focus on this dress.  One includes the Lass and Laddie Oxfords.  But I will wait a few weeks before showing you my Vintage Metro Outfit.

Anthro Sister Love, Laura (lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com)

No Anthro Zone Review - The Long Awaited Babergh

If you have ever experienced a pinched nerve, then you can understand my three day absence.  Unfortunately 2 days of ice/heat therapy has not been successful. But it is now traveling which is a good sign. I am learning to left hand mouse.

Babergh Dress - by Floreat - $188 - Anthro Sept 2010
You can order the dress here.

The long awaited dress arrived today.  I have to admit that I was very close to not ordering this one.  But, thanks to AnthroYogi and her excellent personalized review in both size 4 and 6, I was able to make an educated guess at the size. I ordered my normal size for most dresses.


MY REVIEW... of the Babergh in size 4. I am just under 5'6" tall, 34C, 125 lbs, 35-27-36.

THE FIT... is perfect, as is the dress. The constricting band was my biggest concern since I have a 31" ribcage.  I could take a deep breath without any pulling of the high (not Empire) waist band. There is just a slight gap at the neckline, which thankfully was not too low. There is room at the hips to sit comfortably. The arm holes are not too long.  The length is just above the knee.

The online Anthro description proclaims the dress is Cotton and Silk.  The tag on my dress reads differently.  It was hard to decipher what elements of the dress were made from Cotton, Viscose, Nylon and of all things dreadful Polyester. The tag claims the exterior is Cotton and the lining Nylon.

The dress arrived in fairly good condition from packaging.  Some minor creasing as you can see.  The Ivory bodice fabric is beautifully detailed and could pass for Silk. The pintucked, bow topped ruffle is well constructed of un-detailed Ivory fabric.  The bow is dainty and does not draw attention to the chest in a negative way. The contrasting Lavender waist band is of the same detailed fabric and sits lower than Empire. The skirt fabric is heavy Jacquard in Ivory and Lavender, with Gold accent stitching.  The Ivory lining beneath shows through the cut-outs.

Despite negative comments about the shoulder garnish, I like it.  The flowers are sewn flat so they won't interfere with a coat or sweater.

The zipper does stick at the heavy fabric.  There are some loose threads that don't appear shoddy.  The rear hemline has a streamlined kick pleat. The hem underneath is constructed very nicely.  This dress is very well made.

The only negative points are the lack of Silk, the evidence of Polyester (gag), and the high price tag considering the lack of Silk.

I can style this dress to work year round. My closet produced 3 pairs of shoes, 3 sweaters, a coat, and 2 bracelets that could be used in several outfits centered on this dress. I also ordered an Anthro jacket and pair of shoes. I highly recommend the Dotty Cluster Tights in Lavender.

Dotty Cluster Tights - by Eloise - Lavender - $16 - Anthro Sept 2010

You can order the tights here

You can order the Re-Mix Vintage Shoes "Charlotte" here

Anthro Sister Love, Laura (lauramartinsemail)@yahoo.com