No Anthro Zone Review: Taiyo Stalks Dress by Anna Sui on Sale - The Tippi's Half Sister



Taiyo Stalks Dress Size 2 - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $298 2nd Cut $80 - Aug 2011
Woven Buds Belts - Anthro - Aug 2010
Roadways in Natural Linen - by Bobbi Blu - Zappos $83 with Free Ship - Jun 2008

What's the scoop on the Taiyo Stalks Dress by Anna Sui?  Do you like it?  Not like it?  Did you notice the initial Reviews were both 1 star? When I added my review this morning there was a new 5 star.  

When this dress popped up on Anthro's site months ago, naturally I was intrigued.

Read all Reviews for the Taiyo Stalks Dress by Anna Sui HERE

Why was I intrigued by the dress?  If you happen to remember the Tippi Dress, also by Anna Sui, look carefully at the Taiyo Stalks Dress.  It's essentially the same dress, in Cotton, without a tiered skirt, with additional detail around the neckline and hem. So what went wrong with the Taiyo Stalks Dress?

See me wearing the Tippi Dress HERE and HERE

Tippi Dress - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $268 Sale $140 - May 2011

According to the first 2 reviews, there were at least two issues.  The fabric was too stiff and the fit was similar to a Potato Sack. The Silk Tippi Dress draped very nicely.   In my opinion, a dress must be unwearable or actually falling apart to net 1 star.  So far quality was not an issue. Personally, the cotton is absolutely wonderful, but it's true that it doesn't drape like Silk, Jersey or Rayon.  Anna Sui only uses natural fabrics. Silk may have been a better choice.  Normally if a dress fits like a Potato Sack, that is a clue to size down.  That was suggested by both reviewers, however they don't suggest that sizing down made any difference in fit.  Part of the problem could be, if you are smaller than a size 6 you are sized out. I'm wearing a size 2.  The smallest size available.  I normally wear a size 6 in Anna Sui.

Product Shot Front - Taiyo Stalks Dress - Aug 2011

Product Shot Back - Taiyo Stalks Dress - Aug 2011

This is my take on the Taiyo Stalks Dress. If you need further elaboration please leave a comment or email me at lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com. 

Anthropologie Taiyo Stalks Dress by Anna Sui  - Orig $298 2nd Cut Sale $80 - Aug 2011

SIZE: All my Anna Sui's are size 6.  Except the Tippi Dress (size 4).  I went with the suggestion to size down two sizes. I am 5'5" Tall, 130 lbs, 35-28-36, 34C, Narrow across the shoulders.  I'm wearing a size 2.

FIT:  The dress is slightly tight through the chest. However, there is no pulling across the front. Fitted looks best for a pleated bodice if you are busted. A loose fit would not be flattering. The length is right at the knee. The separate under slip is 6 inches above the dress hemline. Snaps at the shoulders are provided for slip straps. The tie at the waistline hits me an inch above my natural waist.

Taiyo Stalks Dress 2 - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $298 2nd Cut $80 - Aug 2011
Woven Buds Belt - Anthro - Aug 2010

NECKLINE: There are two cinch ties.  Try adjusting the fabric by sliding it along the tie and distributing it evenly. If you pull the fabric along the lower neckline out to the sides and square off the neckline, it will remove the excess fabric that tends to bunch in front. Note that the neckline in the above photo is squared off. In the Product Shot it's rounded and the pleats cause the neckline to bunch if you are busty.  Bra straps are hidden much better with the Taiyo Stalks dress than the Tippi Dress.  Bra straps are hidden under the triangular detail that runs across the shoulder straps.

Taiyo Stalks Dress 2 - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $298 2nd Cut $80 - Aug 2011
Woven Buds Belt - Anthro - Aug 2010

FABRIC: Beautiful Ivory Cotton Sateen that is very Sheer and Dry Clean only. BTW, this fabric is not Eyelet. Eyelet has holes cut through the fabric surrounding the embroidery. Taiyo is the Japanese word for Sun. There are dozens of Stalks that start at the hemline and travel up the skirt. Why not give this dress a fun name along the lines of the Tippi Dress?  Something like the Jack and Bean Stalk Dress. 


Bows decorate the stalks. Wreaths travel around flowers. Once ironed you will see a transformation take place.  The dress begins to look less like a night gown and more like an enchanted frock.  Something befitting Tinker Bell perhaps.  I was surprised how little the fabric wrinkled after a long day. 

Taiyo Stalks Dress 2 - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $298 2nd Cut $80 - Aug 2011
Roadways in Natural Linen - by Bobbi Blu - Zappos $83 with Free Ship - Jun 2008 - Anthro $88 my size OOS

The separate slip comes with adjustable straps and is devoid of embroidery.  You could easily use this slip under other dresses.  However, it is Dry Clean only.  Anna Sui uses delicate fabrics that wouldn't hold up well as pockets.

Taiyo Stalks Dress 2 - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $298 2nd Cut $80 - Aug 2011
Jackie Cardi in Radiant Orchid - by J Crew - Orig $62 Sale $40 - July 2011
Woven Buds Belts - Anthro - Aug 2010
Roadways in Natural Linen - by Bobbi Blu - Zappos $83 with Free Ship - Jun 2008

STYLING:  I went with the romantic feel of the dress.  Using soft, light, and bright colors. The temptation may be to add more lace. Try a medium width belt to define and pull the waist down.  I tucked the waist tie between buttons to the inside of the bodice to hide it. Would style well with Tights and Brown Boots for Fall/Winter.  Stay away from statement jewelry around the heavily detailed neckline. Go for a single ring or bracelet.

I can't place this dress among my top 10 favorites.  Perhaps given a bit more time.  Anthro suggests a myriad of accessorizing possibilities.  I wish they would have given us just one.

Recommended - Size down 2 sizes.  Very small gals are sized out.

Shop the Taiyo Stalks Dress by Anna Sui at Anthropologie HERE on sale.

What do you think, now that you have seen this dress in action?  Is it do-able, or did the previous reviewers hit the nail on the head with 1 star?  Any suggestions to style the dress in a different direction?

Anthro Sister Love from my No Anthro Zone, Laura (lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com)

The Tippi Borrows from The Mompos!

Greetings!  I lined up another successful Tippi Match over the weekend, with the help of LC of Bella Seattle.  LC discovered a lone Tippi Dress at a Seattle area Anthro. I checked my Tippi Matchmaker List and sure enough, Natalie was still looking for a Tippi.  After several phone calls, Natalie had no luck with an SA finding the Tippi.  Shortly after, LC informed me that the dress was on a rack by the door. Finally, Natalie got hold of a Sales Associate that went looking for a dress, that was now described to her, and on a rack by the door.  Success.  What made the deal sweeter was, she picked up her Tippi at the 25% Red Tag discount.

Search Tips:  If you are looking for a special item by phone, it helps to give as much information as possible, including a description of the item and the possible location in the store. Style numbers are usually necessary, but they won't find a dress that hasn't been entered in the stores inventory control system.  And be aware that SA's don't always know the online names.

Tippi Dress - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $268 Sale $140 - May 2011

Jackie Cardigan in Black - by J Crew - $62 - May 2011

Finest Hour Heels - by Miss Albright - Anthro Orig $158 Sale $80 Burlingame CA Peggy - May 2011

Sepia Crocus Bag AKA Dark Stem Shiny Laminate Tote by Orla Kiely AW08 - Anthro $178 - July 2008

Pears on Sterling - Etsy Shop Polished Two $9 - May 2009

Butterfly Cuff - by Jessica Kagan Cushman - Max and Chloe $170 - March 2010

A few weeks ago I inquired about purchasing a Black Cardigan.  An overwhelming number of Ladies suggested J Crew's Jackie Cardigan.  I was hesitant. I find it difficult to spend $62 on a plain cardigan.

I am officially a J Crew Jackie convert.  This is a great sweater.  TTS.  No stretching after a long day. I couldn't be happier with this Cardigan.  True, I can't wear it outside in 110 degree F weather, but it's perfect for the ice box temps in the office.  So great in fact, I ordered another in Laquer Yellow.  I'm on the verge of a third very soon.

Shop the Jackie Cardigan by J Crew - some colors on sale.

Finest Hour Heels - by Miss Albright - Anthro Orig $158 Sale $80 Burlingame CA Peggy - May 2011

My office has a long tile hallway that runs dead center down the middle.  There have times when I attempted to soundlessly tip-toe my way to the Powder Room. Yes ladies, I was wearing wooden clogs.  So you must imagine my happiness to discover how quiet the Finest Hour Heels are.  Now I can joyfully skip my way to the Potty with no embarrassing clang, clang.

My Clank-Proof Clogs are showing signs of love.........right up front. 

Anthro has an almost exact pair of Miss Albright's, although much higher, on sale HERE.

Tippi Dress - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $268 Sale $140 - May 2011

I don't need to tell you how much I love this Dress.  Many Ladies had a desire for this dress that was strongly associated with Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds."  The last time I watched this rather disturbing Sci-Fi movie I was just a kid. I caught the tail end of the movie about a week after I received my Tippi.  It's still disturbing.

It almost seems silly to tell you this, because I've never felt anything like this from a piece of clothing.

The Tippi Dress mesmerizes me. I'm fascinated by the shadowed, scene that circles the skirt. The dress is Wispy, When a breeze catches the delicate Silk Skirt, it ripples like water.  I feel pretty just by wearing it.

Isn't that exactly what a dress should do?

Do you have a Dress that does something special like this for you?

Does it have a name? 

and finally....

What did I borrow from the Mompos dress to wear with the Tippi?

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

Tippi Dress Love! APB for Tippi Dresses 0, 2, and 8.

Happy Wednesday!  Remember Mompos Monday?  Well...yesterday was Tippi Tuesday! Not only that, Anjali of Goldenmeans and I were twins.  Right down to Black Shoes and Topper for the Tippi Dress. See the always lovely Anjali HERE.  So yesterday was actually Tippi Twins Tuesday!

It seems I started a wave of love for the Tippi.

Reader Sharon is looking for the Tippi Dress in a 0 or 2.  Please if you have any info or have seen this dress, even if you are not sure of the size, contact me at lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com.  Or Sharon at chloiecat9@gmail.com.  Thanks for your help!

Jesspgh of Consume or Consumed is looking for a size 6.  Please contact me at lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com or Jess at jesspgh@gmail.com.

Anyone who needs a size 8 can contact me.  I have a lead to a reader that has one in her posession.  She can return the dress and place it on a 24 hour hold for you.  You can email me at lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com. 
Thank you to Mich for the tip on some sizes that may be available at the Austin Anthro Store. She definitely saw a Size 4 yesterday, and possibly a few larger sizes.  512-236-9301 Style # size 4 is 20050183.

Tippi Dress - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $268 Sale $140 - May 2011
All Along Knit Jacket in Black - by Cartonnier - Anthro Orig $88 Sale $50 - Feb 2011
Quilted Patent Ivy Stem Print In Black - by Orla Kiely AW10 - PerriBerri Orig $495 Sale $278 - April 2011
Butterfly Cuff - by Jessica Kagan Cushman - Max and Chloe $170 - March 2010
Pears on Sterling - Etsy Shop Polished Two $9 - May 2009

I found myself mesmerised by the miniature, shadowed village that circles the ruffled tiers. The Silk Print is amazingly soft, and the dress is fully lined in more Mint Silk. It feels like wearing a WISP.  The breeze picked up the delicate layered skirt and it rippled like water.  Absolute heaven to wear! I felt pretty in this dress.

Check HERE as often as possible for Pop Back's of the Tippi Dress. Or call CS for a store search on

style #20050183.  DO NOT do a charge/send.  This dress may already be sold out.  Call the store yourself and have them ship the dress.  Contact me if you need help locating one.  lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com

I may have to try my Black Crinoline Slip underneath next time. I honestly didn't think this dress was me.  Truth is, I could eat this dress up as if it were Pistachio Ice Cream.

I planned to remove my All Around Knit Jacket to photograph the whole dress, but it was too cold at 6:30 AM.  

Tippi Dress - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $268 Sale $140 - May 2011
All Along Knit Jacket in Black - by Cartonnier - Anthro Orig $88 Sale $50 - Feb 2011
Camden Wedge in Black- by Jambu - Zappos Orig $123 Sale $98 - May 2010
Quilted Patent Ivy Stem Print In Black - by Orla Kiely AW10 - PerriBerri Orig $495 Sale $278 - April 2011
Butterfly Cuff - by Jessica Kagan Cushman - Max and Chloe $170 - March 2010
Pears on Sterling - Etsy Shop Polished Two $9 - May 2009

The Tippi Dress screams to be the center of attention.  Nothing but Black all the way around would do.  Since Spring is in the air I reached for my Camden Wedges by Jambu.  Every time I grab for these, I smile at the use of my Son's name in a pair of shoes.  These sandals are one of the most comfortable pair in my closet.  They give me 2 platform inches, and are entirely man made with the look of patent leather.  The closure is easy Velcro. 

Shop the Camden Wedge on sale HERE in Black or Bronze

Tippi Dress - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $268 Sale $140 - May 2011
All Along Knit Jacket in Black - by Cartonnier - Anthro Orig $88 Sale $50 - Feb 2011
Butterfly Cuff - by Jessica Kagan Cushman - Max and Chloe $170 - March 2010
Pears on Sterling - Etsy Shop Polished Two $9 - May 2009

Now for some real Patent Leather.  I don't think I formally introduced my new Patent Ivy Bag in Black by Orla Kiely.  This is the big Sister to my very small Patent Ivy Bag in Ivory.  When I purchased it I truly wanted the Deep Violet version.  Perri Berri's online product page didn't specify color and the image was of the Violet Bag.  So I was very disappointed that Perri Berri shipped the Black version.  I attempted to contact them 3 times and was completely ignored.  Their return policy states that the customer pays for shipping.  That's fine, but not if the retailer sent the wrong item. Very poor customer service in my opinion.  So I have removed their link from my side bar.  I know several Readers have used said link to purchase OK products. I refuse to ever purchase any product from them again. 

Luckily, it turns out I do love the Black version.  But that doesn't excuse Perri Berri's poor customer service.

Tippi Dress - by Anna Sui - Anthro Orig $268 Sale $140 - May 2011
All Along Knit Jacket in Black - by Cartonnier - Anthro Orig $88 Sale $50 - Feb 2011
Quilted Patent Ivy Stem Print In Black - by Orla Kiely AW10 - PerriBerri Orig $495 Sale $278 - April 2011
Butterfly Cuff - by Jessica Kagan Cushman - Max and Chloe $170 - March 2010
Pears on Sterling - Etsy Shop Polished Two $9 - May 2009

Does anyone remember my Butterfly Cuff by Jessica Kagan Cushman?  She makes those crazy bracelets with the silly messages on them.   Anthro carried this cuff several years ago. When it hit sale I was broke. I tracked the cuff down a year later using Shop Style.  I found it at Max and Chloe.  Unfortunately, not on sale. You can still buy this cuff and many other JKC styles HERE.  Tell me what you think of The Turachula Version HERE.  It's amazingly light and comfortable for a cuff.  It also stays pushed up on my forearm.  There isn't a better choice for the Tippi Dress.

Last but not least are my Pear Earrings from Etsy Shop Polished Two.  Did you check out the link to her collection of $9 to $12 earrings? Was there a particular pair you liked? So cute!

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

New Sale Items In November - Just added New Free Anthro Tops - Shipping Included

BLOG SALE - FREE SHIPPING - FREE ITEMS LISTING AT BOTTOM - ONE FREE ITEM WITH EACH PURCHASE

Each item purchased is eligible for one free item while supplies last. Look for free items at the bottom of the Post.

 I am the original owner of all Anthro items, including those purchased new on eBay.

Sizes include: Small, Medium, 4, 6 and 8. With some exceptions. There is nothing wrong with the clothing unless minor and specified.

Shoes are 7.5 or 8 medium width.

No Returns Pleases! Ask questions.  Let's make sure you are satisfied with the item before you purchase.  I am willing to send photos and measurements. 

Please see specifics and image for each piece. Shipping is included. USPS flat rate envelope. Payment is by PayPal only. If you want specific measurements or additional images, and for further questions please email Laura (GeoInCalifornia) at lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com.

Please specify items by Brand or Anthro name, size and price in your email to me.

SALE ITEMS LISTING


Willet Blouse - Floreat - Size 6
Cotton and Rayon - Mashine Wash
Anthro Orig $118
$40 including Free Shipping

Veiled Arbor Blouse - Floreat - Size 6

Silk and Cotton - Dry Clean

Anthro Orig $118, Sale $60

$40 including Free Shipping

Flight Patterns Jacket - Sleeping On Snow - Size Medium

Cotton - Hand Wash

Anthro Orig $118, Sale $60

$40 Including Free Shipping

Ivy O Ring Wedge Sandals in Wine- by Frye
Size 8 - TTS - runs wide
$40 Ships Free
Orig $198
Worn Twice with the First Steps Sweatercoat also for sale

Wishbone Sandals in Gold - by Leifsdottir
Size 8 - Anthro Orig $138 Sale $40 - $35 Ships Free
My foot is wide across the front, so these are too tight for me.
Worn once.

Mannila Sandals in Brown - by FRYE
Size 8 - Anthro Orig $158, Sale $50
$40 Ships Free
My foot is wide across the front, so these are too tight for me.
Worn once

Thawing Gingko Mini - by Wendy Katlen - Size 6 - This skirt runs one size small and is high waisted

Anthro orig $138, Sale $70

$35 Ships Free

Looks great with a Grey sweater

  

Geometric Cluster Blouse - by Floreat

Size 6 - Anthro Orig $88, Sale $50

$35 Ships Free

The straps have been permanently sewed into the blouse. The sewing can be easily removed

Windy Dunes Cardi - by Moth - Small
Cotton - Hand Wash
Anthro Orig $88

$35 Ships Free

  

  

 Wending Lace Cardigan - by Guinevere - Medium

Anthro in store purchase $118

Worn twice

$35 Ships Free

Stillwater Blouse - by Yoana Baraschi - Size 8

Navy was an online exclusive color

This is a Tieback with lovely folded fabric detail around the V neck

Anthro Orig $88 - Did not make Sale

$35 Ships Free

First Steps Sweatercoat - by Coven - Brazil

I badly wanted this coat, so I foolishly ordered it as a Pop-Back in Large.  It's just way too big.

Anthro Orig. $468, Sale $100

$80 Ships Free

Elevenses Jacket - Size 6 - from Feb 2009 -
Anthro name unknown - Purchased on eBay new -
$30 Ships Free - Worn once or twice

Marble Mocha Jacket - by Elevenses -
Size 8 - $40 Ships Free - Shipping Included - Worn Once

Bow Tier Tunic- by Odille - Size 6
$30 Ships Free  - Worn Once -
Perfect Condition

FREE ITEMS LISTING
The Following Items are Giveaways - All in great condition. You may pick one item to be included with each purchase. If you purchase 2 items or more with combined shipping you may pick one free item for each purchase.

As long as supplies last.

Please specify the free item by number in your email.

#1 - Cerrito Tee - by C Keer - Small - in Blue  

#4 - Cotton Jersey Tee - Medium - by Porridge




#5 Secret Code Skirt - by Hei Hei - Size 8 Reg - Machine Wash

Cotton, Spandex

 

#8 - Change of Pace Hoodie - Saturday Sunday - size Medium

#10  Southwest Sunset Bracelets - Etsy

#11 Sweetshop Necklace from Anthro - Circa 2008

#12 Double Strand World Market Necklace with orange beads from World Market

#13 Pink Freshwater Pearl Necklace with pink glass beads woven with pink thread and button closure - from World Market.

 

#15 Triangular Dyed Shell Beads (Turquoise) with clasp from World Market.

Remember to specify your free item by number.

Please make sure your PayPal address is updated.
Insurance will be included.

Thank you for shopping my blog, Laura (GeoInCalifornia) lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com