No Anthro Zone Reviews! Fatigue Finery Cape and the Camellia Blouse

It's time to bust out a couple reviews.  Both items are currently on sale and available in most sizes.

No Anthro Zone Review: Fatigue Finery Cape by Madchen, Anthro Orig $298 Sale $80, Nov 2011

Not my favorite look for the Fatigue Finery Cape

I first tried Anthro's Fatigue Finery Cape in the Santa Monica Store.  I had mixed emotions.  I'm a total sucker for anything with Military inspired details. But the price was a heart stopper.

After it made second cut I ordered it from online. It was time to take a second look. 

Fatigue Finery Cape by Madchen was $298 now $80

SIZE: Since the cape is fitted only at the shoulders, the best way to determine the correct size is by the length of your shoulders. Mine are very narrow (16"), and even though I'm a 4/6 in Anthro, I took an XS.

FIT: When zipped, the hem at the bottom of the placket sticks out oddly. Ironing helped the overall appearance, but didn't do much for that issue.

FABRIC: Soft flexible knit that feels like Cotton instead of a synthetic blend.  The knit is surrounded by heavy, structured wool.  Dry Clean Only.

The second time around I'm not convinced this cape is for me.

My change of heart has nothing to do with the arm slits to the front that most reviewers found awkward.

In fact, I found the location of the slits to be handy for using a cell phone.  Unfortunately, those same handy slits, make a great wind tunnel to funnel in a cold breeze.

This is a Test.  This is only a Test. 

I didn't have a problem reaching up to flip my hair.  Right!  Not something I commonly do.  But I wanted to see how distorted the cape would look by such an action.  How ugly is this cape?

I could easily open a door...rummage through my bag...and hail a taxi if there were such a thing in Bakersfield.

Honestly,  I would never expect a cape to masquerade as the perfect day-to-day Winter coat.  

Was Anthro trying to tell me something with this outfit?  Which I happen to love.  The shape and length of the cape is far more suitable with pants. Something I rarely wear.

Short skirts like the one I'm wearing, don't show enough hemline. I feel like a giant bell with legs for the clapper. Worse, full skirts or dresses would leave the wearer completely shapeless. 

Elbow length gloves are suitably cute, but won't keep the draft out.

The snap front pockets are much too shallow to be of any use.

The collar unsnaps so it can be worn turned up.

The quality and construction are exceptional! 

It isn't easy being Green! Especially for this cape! 

I don't need another novelty item that can only be worn on a special occasion. I haven't exactly pin pointed what that special occasion would be.

This certainly isn't an everyday cape for cold weather either. 

XS is sold out online. So I'm in no hurry to return this one yet.

No Anthro Zone Review: Camellia Blouse - by Gryphon - Anthro Orig $168 Sale $90 - Nov 2011

I planned to layer this Blouse under sweaters, but it works just as well on it's own. It's a nicely constructed Polyester blouse, with Cotton embroidery.

Wait just a second.  Did I just preface Polyester with the word nicely?  I can't stand Polyester. 

I've come to accept that for some things, Polyester works.  Case in point.  Cotton would never drape for a shapeless design like this.  Silk would shred considering how this blouse is pieced together in strips. 

Personally, I celebrate the tag that reads...Machine Wash.  WooHoo!

Camellia Blouse by Gryphon was $168 now $90

I rarely find a lacy, romantic, unstructured blouse that is flattering on busty me.  The fact that this blouse is completely untailored, but works, is enough to make it a keeper for me. 

 I can easily slip this over my head with the top button open in back..

SIZE:  I was concerned my normal Small might pull across the chest. I sized up to a Medium.


I'm 5'5" tall, 130 lbs, 35-28-36. 34D. Short arms. Narrow shoulders.

FIT: Comfortable. Medium was the right choice since the fabric is non-stretch. Hemline just clears my hips with no bunching. No pulling through the chest or shoulders. The sleeve ends just clear my elbows.

FABRIC: I layered a simple Ivory Tank. The blouse is light weight and very sheer. As I mentioned it's MACHINE WASH.  You won't have to slave with an iron..

Recommended! If you have an hourglass shape or are top or bottom heavy, size up. If you have a straight figure, go with your normal size.



Camellia Blouse - by Gryphon - Anthro Orig $168 Sale $90 - Nov 2011
Reversible Tank in Cream Scoop Side - by Eloise - Anthro $24 - Jan 2009
Vintage Ridge Skirt - by Athleta - Orig $59 Sale $25 - Feb 2011
If Color Could Talk Necklace in Yellow - Anthro Orig $48 Sale $10 - May 2011
Opaque Tights in Brown - by Hue - Anthro 2010
Asterisk Booties (aka Yandal) by Chie Mihara - Anthro Orig $388 Sale $200 - Oct 2011

This is Monday's outfit worn with Anthro's Pansy Trench instead of the Fatigue Finery Cape.

And...

Anthro's Asterisk Booties (aka Yandal) - by Chie Mihara - Anthro Orig $398 Sale $200 - Nov 2011

Chie Mihara's Yandal Booties. I was in need of some Fall color to brighten my day.

Nefi is having surgery today. Sniff!  She has been through so much in her short life.  I hate the idea of putting her through more, but I know it's necessary for her to live a healthy life.

Any suggestions for stying the Fatigue Finery Cape?  I plan to try the cape with pants in the near future.

Hope you are all having a great week!

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

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)

No Anthro Zone Review: Backswept Dress by Corey Lynn Calter - " I Got You Covered"

Backswept Dress 6 - by Corey Lynn Calter - Anthro Orig $288 Sale $140 - Aug 2011
Istria Peep Toes 7.5 - by Miss Albright - Anthro Orig $158 - Mar 2009

Happy Saturday Ladies!  Elizabeth of Behind the Dressing Room Door is giving away a $25 Anthro Card to Celebrate her One Year Blog Birthday.  So visit HERE for a chance to win.

I'm back with another Corey Lynn Calter Dress Review.  The Backswept Dress wasn't even on my Radar.  When it unexpectedly made sale last Tuesday, I reconsidered, and made it mine. The move seemed reasonable enough. After all, I'm a CLC fan through and through. What could go wrong? 

How difficult could it be to make this bare back dress work for me, without looking ridiculous.  Or would I have to resort to throwing a Cardi over top and calling it a day. 

Jamie of Thrifty Threads described the Backswept Dress as a "One Trick Pony."  Having read the reviews, but having never laid eyes on the dress first hand, I agreed with her assessment. It turns out, there is more to this dress than meets the eye.

NO ANTHRO ZONE REVIEW: 

The Backswept Dress by Corey Lynn Calter Orig $288 Sale $140 - August 2011

Product Image Back

Product Image Front

SIZE:  I ordered my normal size 6 for Corey Lynn Calter Dresses.  I'm just over 5'5" Tall, 130 lbs, 35-28-36, 34C to D.  Narrow shoulders.

FIT:  The fit is absolutely everything I have come to expect from CLC.  Perfect. The bodice is fitted without feeling tight.  The waist seam hits an inch above my natural waistline.  The tie back is adjustable. I pulled the shoulders in slightly.  I like the flattering sleeveless arm holes that extend just past my shoulders.  Almost a cap sleeve, but not quite. My bra doesn't show under the arms. The hemline covers my knees.  A longer length I don't normally choose since it tends to cut me off at the knee and make me look shorter.  The flattering tailored bodice removes the chances of that happening. The elastic at the waistband in back provides a comfortable fit. I didn't have issues with gaping.

This dress has a "relaxed, wear anywhere, anytime, and feel like your in a night gown" fit.

Backswept Dress 6 - by Corey Lynn Calter - Anthro Orig $288 Sale $140 - Aug 2011

BTW.  There is no crinoline slip under this dress.  The fan is blowing my skirt.

Now for the back of the dress?  Let's take a quick look at this lovely young lady standing in a vineyard.

Anthropologie Catalog Issue 6 - June 2011 - PG 41
Backswept Dress by Corey Lynn Calter

This vineyard could easily be anywhere in Bakersfield, CA. It's a perfect location for an open backed dress. However, the only place I will be wearing this dress is to work.  We do have a dress code.  I don't think an open back this low would be tolerated.

Now, let's be reasonable adults.  Many of us can't go without support, but would still like to enjoy this gorgeous dress.  But at the same time, no one wants to cover a pretty dress with a Cardi when the weather calls for short sleeves.  Although, I admit to making this adjustment many times.

I came up with an alternative that not only covers the issue completely, but also enhances, instead of taking away from the look of the dress.

Meet two of many closet essentials...

Thing One

Reversible Seamless Tank in Raspberry Small - by Eloise - Anthro Orig $25 Sale $20 -  July 2011

and

Thing Two

Reversible Seamless Tank in Turquoise Small - by Eloise - Anthro Orig $25 Sale $20 - July 2011

Thing One and Thing Two arrived in July when they hit sale at a lousy $5 off. Thanks Anthro!  I've been waiting Months for such a deal.  Colors such as these could come in handy. It turned out that I needed them sooner instead of later.  Both colors work equally well with the V-Neck to the back.

Backswept Dress 6 - by Corey Lynn Calter - Anthro Orig $288 Sale $140 - Aug 2011
Reversible Seamless Tank in Raspberry Small - by Eloise - Anthro Orig $25 Sale $20 - July 2011

Problem solved to my satisfaction!

FABRIC: 100% Silk with no give. Large scale Coral and Pale Green Chrysanthemums on White background. Fully lined is sheer Blush Polyester. Dry Clean Only.  Needs pressing to look it's best. I untied all 3 ties and ironed them before re-tying them.

 I remembered to tie my bows

 right over left, left over right

 this makes a bow both tidy and tight

DETAILS:
100% Silk Shell
100% Poly Lining
Slit Tie Front Pockets.  You may loose anything you put in them
Side Zip with helper button
Extra helper included in a coordinated Print Bag
Elastic Back Waist band
Tie Back with Keyhole

Backswept Dress 6 - by Corey Lynn Calter - Anthro Orig $288 Sale $140 - Aug 2011

Reversible Seamless Tank in Raspberry - by Eloise - Anthro Orig $25 Sale $20 - July 2011

Solid Turquoise Rose - by Allison Dayton - Athleta Orig $198 - Apr 2009

Istria Peep Toes 7.5 - by Miss Albright - Anthro Orig $158 - Mar 2009

OK!  Please be truthful!  What do you think of my solution?  Does it work?  Is it too obvious? Do you have a better idea to cover my back?

Shop the Backswept Dress by Corey Lynn Calter on sale HERE. Available in all sizes

Shop the In The Headlines Dress at Modcloth HERE. Available in 0, 4, and 8. The Sister Dress!

Shop the Shimera Seamless Tank in Holly Berry HERE.  Available in all sizes.

Shop Bordeaux Seamless Tank in Fern and Citris HERE
Shop a variety of styles and colors at Kohl's HERE.  $.99 Shipping. Free over $75.

Shop Anthro's Reversible Seamless Tank in Raspberry size Small only HERE  

Shop Jockey Seamless Tank in Clear Aqua size Large only HERE

Learn more about animated GIF's and cinema graphs from Lori of Lorispeak.  Lori has some spectacular examples of these fascinating and somewhat creepy short movies.  Some of them gave me the willies.  Yikes!

Anthropologie has free shipping and returns on shoes for Card Holders though August 15th.  

I have already taken advantage of this offer with THESE. 

If you would like to Register for an Anthro Card, you may do so HERE.

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

No Anthro Zone Review: Head Over Heels for Apple Pie Mary Janes!

Apple Pie Mary Janes - By Poetic Licence - Endless Shoes Orig $98 Sale $68 - July 2011



Polka Dot Be They Name


On sale they are too tempting to ignore.

No Anthro Zone Review:  Apple Pie Mary Janes in Blue - by Poetic Licence - Endless Shoes Orig $98 Sale $68   

I ordered my normal size US 8. Despite the fact that the heel is fairly low, I found my foot sliding forward against the slick insole.  It was then I checked the shoe, and discovered that the bottom is clearly marked EUR 39, While the inside reads US 8M.
  

The Endless Size Chart claims US 8 equals EUR 38 

In my experience US 8 equals EUR 38.5 or UK 38.5.  So I was confused.

Endless sent me the correct size shoe according to the Manufacturer's Conversion on the shoe.

I checked my Poetic Licence Backlash (Anthro's Lass and Laddie Oxfords) and they are also marked US 8 on the inside and EUR 39 on the bottom. I put them side by side. The Apple Pie Mary Janes are 1/2 an inch longer. That explains it.

The Product Page for this shoe is listed in US sizes. I recommend sizing down one 1/2 size.  So if you wear US 8, order US 7.5.  The sizing may not be consistent with other Poetic Licence shoes in your closet.

Available is Blue sizes 8-10

 $64 with free 2-day ship at Endless HERE

Available is all Colors and Sizes

 $54 with $6 ship at 6PM HERE

Pink and Black available 

 $64 with free ship at Zappos HERE

Apple Pie Mary Janes - By Poetic Licence - Endless Shoes Orig $98 Sale $68 - July 2011

More Details....

I adore the curved shape under the arch for Poetic Licence pumps this year.  The heel is not too dainty, nor too chunky. The height is just right for a vintage inspired 40's pump.  Overall, the styling speaks clearly.

The vamp strap is elastic with a decorative Gold Apple Button. The glitter is glossed over, so it will not chip. The Endless Details Tab describes the Button as a closure.  However, it is non functioning.

I describe the Blue as Aqua or even Cyan.  The Pink Polka Dots are Bright.  Almost Neon.  The White Polkas are not Pure White.  The fabric has a slightly rough, nubby texture that is appropriate.  

My foot is medium at the front and narrow through the arch and heel.  The shoe feels wide toward the back.
These may not work well for a Narrow Foot.  The vamp strap is not tight at all.  Which is how it should be, or these would hurt without tights. The strap does prevent my heel from slipping out of the shoe.  A very good thing.

The toe box has ample wiggle room. Neither the heel or sides caused a problem.  I did have pain in one toe from sliding forward and hitting the front of the shoe.

I don't expect these to last forever.  But, with proper care and attention (be careful where you walk) these should look good for a few years.  

I added Foot Petal Inserts for additional cushion 
and to prevent my foot from sliding forward and jamming my toes to the front.


  I also applied Fabric Protector before wearing them outdoors.  I plan to re-apply often, after using a soft brush to remove dry dust and debris.

My shoes arrived late the night before. When I opened the box in the morning, there was no turning back.   So I threw this outfit together in 5 minutes. So versatility is clearly not an issue.

Sketchwork Tee - by Dreamy Dances Beneath Starry Skies Wandering Through Perfume Gardens 
Anthro Orig $58 Sale $30 - Oct 2009
Ruffled Denim Skirt - by Leifsdottir - Anthro Orig $158 Sale $70 - July 2009
Jackie Cardi in Laquer Yellow - by J Crew - $62 - June 2011
High Gloss Belt in Sky - Anthro $28 - Apr 2011
Apple Pie Mary Jane Pump in Blue - by Poetic Licence - Endless Orig $98 Sale $68 - July 2011



Something about Aqua and Yellow makes me swoon.

Would you wear these Polka Dot Shoes?

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

No Anthro Zone Review and OOTD! I'm a Take Action Kind of Gal!

I was shocked to discover The Take Action Dress had completely sold out online in my size. Did I expect this dress to make sale?  Honestly?  Yes!

I immediately put out an APB for a size Four.  It was AimeeH that came through with a Dress for me. I owe you a huge thank you Aimee.  This quote is a favorite of my Mother's, "You will receive Rubies and Diamonds in Heaven."

Take Action Dress - by Girls From Savoy - Anthro $168 - April 2011
High Gloss Belt in Yellow - Anthro $28 - Apr 2011
UO Lace Crochet Tights in Ivory - Urban Outfitters $14 - Nov 2008
Quelusia Heels in Purple - by Re-Mix Vintage Footwear - Anthro Orig $228, Sale $100 - July 2008
Bejeweled Bee Ring - by Kenneth Lane - Anthro Orig $105 Sale $70 - July 09 - 22K gold, enamel and Swarovski Crystals
Plum Grove Necklace - Quartz and Jade - Anthro $50 -  Jan 2009

No Anthro Zone Review:  The Take Action Dress - by Girls of Savoy - $168  (sold out in most sizes)
This is one of those classic, timeless Anthro Dresses that keeps me tuned in. Perfect for work with a Cardi. Great for a party with heels. Slap on flats for a day of shopping. Done right, this is not your average dress.



Anthro's Take Action Dress - by Girls of Savoy - $168 - April 2011



SIZE: Since I'm on the busty side, I went with my normal size 4. According to most reviews you may be able to size down. Particularly if you are not well endowed. I'm 5'5" Tall, 130 lbs, 35-28-36, 34C to D. 

FIT: The Gathered waistband is 2 inches above my natural waist. But is flattering since the gathering runs the sides and back only. The length is just above my knees. My bra straps show from the back. Nothing a halter style bra can't handle. The arm holes are not too long. I don't really see the bunching some online reviewers mention.

Take Action Dress - by Girls From Savoy - Anthro $168 - April 2011
UO Lace Crochet Tights in Ivory - Urban Outfitters $14 - Nov 2008
Quelusia Heels in Purple - by Re-Mix Vintage Footwear - Anthro Orig $228, Sale $100 - July 2008
Pear Print Beach Bag in Dandelion - Orla Kiely SS09 - Orla Kiely $196 - Feb 2009
Bejeweled Bee Ring - by Kenneth Lane - Anthro Orig $105 Sale $70 - July 09 - 22K gold, enamel and Swarovski Crystals



WHAT I LOVE MOST...is the Turquoise Silk Dotted with Green-Yellow Polkas. The Gathered waist runs the back and sides, not the front. A very well thought out detail. Fully lined in Turquoise Poly with Yellow Trim. The neckline pleats nicely frame a pendant necklace.

Take Action Dress - by Girls From Savoy - Anthro $168 - April 2011
Blinded by Beauty Cardigan - Modcloth Orig $55 Sale $16 - Feb 2011
Bejeweled Bee Ring - by Kenneth Lane - Anthro Orig $105 Sale $70 - July 09 - 22K gold, enamel and Swarovski Crystals
Plum Grove Necklace - Quartz and Jade - Anthro $50 -  Jan 2009

WHAT I MISS MOST...are Pockets.



Take Action Dress - by Girls From Savoy - Anthro $168 - April 2011
Blinded by Beauty Cardigan - Modcloth Orig $55 Sale $16 - Feb 2011
High Gloss Belt in Yellow - Anthro $28 - Apr 2011
UO Lace Crochet Tights in Ivory - Urban Outfitters $14 - Nov 2008
Quelusia Heels in Purple - by Re-Mix Vintage Footwear - Anthro Orig $228, Sale $100 - July 2008
Pear Print Beach Bag in Dandelion - Orla Kiely SS09 - Orla Kiely $196 - Feb 2009
Bejeweled Bee Ring - by Kenneth Lane - Anthro Orig $105 Sale $70 - July 09 - 22K gold, enamel and Swarovski Crystals
Plum Grove Necklace - Quartz and Jade - Anthro $50 -  Jan 2009


Styling for Spring was a challenge. Sure you can wear yellow accessories, but a good dress should style at least 3 ways especially if purchased at Full Price. I spiced up the Turquoise and Yellow with Purple.

Recommended Full 5 stars. Some can size down. TTS for Busty Gals. Waistband is high but flattering. May require a halter style bra.

One of the covered buttons at the waist came apart while I was wearing this yesterday. Thankfully, my dress came with extra buttons.  I'm not sure if it was because of the belt.  I sewed on the extra and was able to repair the button with glue.

See additional Blog Reviews for the Take Action Dress....

Kim of Anthroholic HERE

Roxy of EA HERE

Sara of You Me and Anthropologie HERE

and Lori of Lorispeak HERE

See lovely ladies wearing the Take Action Dress....

Lisa of C of a CC Girl HERE

Jen of Vintageglammz HERE

Anjali of Goldenmeans HERE

Lyzi of Lyziology HERE

from Anthropologiesque HERE

See styling options for the Take Action Dress....

from S of the Delightful Find HERE

from Dajana of All Kinds of Lovely HERE

So many reviews, OOTD's and styling options are available for this dress.  I probably could have skipped todays review.

No sale today!  A little bird told me to keep my eyes glued to Effortless Anthropologie.  Something larger than usual is expected this week.

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

No Anthro Zone Review! Berry Months Dress! Confessions...

Confession #1 -  I wanted this dress to wear with my Chie Mihara Tosmos.  Can you blame me?
Confession #2 -  I didn't watch, nor did I care to watch the royal wedding. Shame on me!
Confession #3 - I re-ordered the Magellan Dress in the wrong size.  So I re-ordered it again and then sent it back.  I'm fickle like that.

Berry Months Dress - by We Love Vera - Anthro Orig $148 - April 2011
Anadyomene Cardi is Ivory - by Rosie Neira - Anthro Orig $88 - Apr 2011
Sliver Belt in Green - Anthro Orig $38 Sale $20 - Apr 2011
Tosmo in RED - by Chie Mihara - Far Fetch $329 - 041611

Update on my ever present and painful Trigger Thumb. I started bending my left thumb just a bit Tuesday.  Oh did it ever hurt after just a couple times.  I was certain that the very painful steroid injection from 2 weeks ago didn't work. But not so! Today I can bend my thumb to almost a normal angle. With no pain.  You have no idea how relieved I am.

But now I have two additional painful problems. The knob on my right wrist is now swollen from over use. It's twice the size it normally is. I'm icing my wrist as I type with my left.  On top of that, my left shoulder and bicep are screaming at me from overuse of my not so dominant left arm.  Blog rounds are just not possible.

Rest assured, Style GeoInCalifornia will go on as planned.  Photo shoot tomorrow.  Post and Voting Polls set for Monday.  In the mean time, I want to share with you another dress love.

No Anthro Zone Review:  Berry Months Dress by We Love Vera $148


My closet is screaming for Floral Prints and the color RED.  This dress satisfied a craving for both.  The combination of Red and Green pops on the Ivory background.  The Luscious Red Berries at the hem call for more Red on your feet. In steps the Chie Mihara Tosmos. The Vera Print is unique and tasteful.  Not childish! I love this dress even more than the Magellan Dress.  See my Review HERE.

SIZE: I ordered my normal size 4 in Anthro Brand Dresses. I'm 5'6" Tall, 130 Lbs, 35-28-36, 34C to D. Narrow through the shoulders. Large rib cage.

I wasn't impressed until I ironed the messy pleats out of the skirt. That's when I realized it was Dress Love.

FIT: I found this dress TTS, as did most reviewers. I first went at this bra less, but found the bodice fit unflattering. Commonly referred to as a Loaf. A convertible Bandeau helped to contain the Girls, since there is no support except for side boning. The top of the bodice is lined with Gel Tape for a more secure fit.  My large rib cage makes most strapless dresses constricting and uncomfortable. The back stretch panel let me breath comfortably with a flawless fit. I solved the high waist issue by dropping the straps down. The Length just covered my knees, making this the perfect Spring/Summer Dress for bare legs.

Berry Months Dress by We Love Vera - Anthro #148
Back Stretch Panel Gives a Flawless Fit
Hand Knit Cape by my Mother Nancy - Sometimes known as Mum With the Thumb

BELT: I am not one for little girl bows.  I tied the Belt Back to Front like an Obi.

Berry Months Dress - Belt tied like an Obi

DETAILS:
- Awesome Pockets
- Fully Lined in Ivory Poly (yuck) with lace trim
- We Love Vera
- Abundant Greenery and Artsy Red Strawberries
- Dark Green Bodice Trim
- Demure Length
- Back Stretch Panel
- Removable Straps. No matching print pouch for mine.
- Side Boning and Sticky Tape on Bodice
- Side zip, not back zip as Anthro described
- Hook and eye are too far apart
- Zipper did stick a little
- Rayon isn't my fabric of choice
- Needs ironing
- Didn't wrinkle too badly
- Long Belt can be tied multiple ways. Loops at the side.
- Excellent Construction

Shop the Berry Months Dress HERE.

Still available in most Regular Sizes and Larger Sizes for Petites

Stock is running very low

Playing Dress up was rewarding with the Berry Months Dress. This is one Fresh and Luscious Dress.
Now I leave you with some Food I mean Strawberries for thought.

Berry Months Dress - by We Love Vera - Anthro Orig $148 - April 2011

Outlook Belt - Anthro $28 - Jun 2009

Infinite Loop Sandals - by Matt Bernson - Anthro Orig $178 Sale $100 - May 2009

Berry Months Dress - by We Love Vera - Anthro Orig $148 - April 2011

Beloved Cardigan - by Leifdottir - Anthro Orig $288 Sale $90 - Jan 2009
Infinite Loop Sandals - by Matt Bernson - Anthro Orig $178 Sale $100 - May 2009

Berry Months Dress - by We Love Vera - Anthro Orig $148 - April 2011

Hand Knit Cape by my Mother Nancy - Sometimes known as Mum With the Thumb
Port-To-Port Heels - by Miss L Fire - Anthro Orig $158 Sale $80 - July 2008

I'm still looking for the ever elusive Pom Flower Shift in a Size 4.  I called 5 stores that had one size small dress at each.  It was a complete fail.  Perhaps it's not meant to be.

Pom Flower Dress RETAIL SKU# 19849660 - SIZE 4

Anthro's Pom Flower Shift

This isn't the half of it for the berry Months Dress.  I've got a few more stylings up my sleeve I'm saving for future OOTD's.

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