Reviews: Tangerine Flicker Dress and Interspersed Ponte Dress

Anthropologie Dress Reviews:  

Tangerine Flicker Dress size 6 - by Tracy Reese - $358 - Sept 2011

Tangerine Flicker Dress Size 6 - by Tracy Reese - Anthro $358 - Sept 2011
Styled with
Honor Guard Booties - by Messeca - Anthro $168 - Dec 2010

This dress topped my Wish List to try at the 3rd St Promenade Anthro. I lucked out. The store had only 2 dresses. Both in my size.

Dress #1 in Size 6 would not zip.

SIZE: TTS.  Size 6. I'm 5'5" Tall, 130 lbs, 34C, 35-28-36, Narrow Shoulders. Short arms. I normally wear a 6 or Small in Dresses.

Tangerine Flicker Dress Size 6 - by Tracy Reese - Anthro $358 - Sept 2011
Styled with
Honor Guard Booties - by Messeca - Anthro $168 - Dec 2010

FIT: Dress #1 did not zip all the way. Dress #2 did. Neither dress had tight sleeves. Probably because I have narrow shoulders. My bra strap didn't show at the back.  If it had, I would have layered Anthro's Seamless Reversible Tank in Ivory with the V neck to the back. Length is just above the knee. I struggled with adjusting the slip straps to keep the bodice from pulling. Nothing helped. I knew what would.

There are at least 10 size 6 dresses online. I had no idea how many dresses I would have to order before I found a good fit. I wasn't leaving this one behind.

ISSUES: Why attach the slip to the bodice? According to the reviews, potential buyers left the dress behind because of this flaw. One reviewer paid a seamstress to fix the issue. When I arrived home I simply snipped the threads that held the slip straps to the shoulders, and under the arms. That completely freed everything up. No more pulling at the shoulders. I don't recommend doing this unless you know how to re-attach. I can't guarantee this simple fix is the right solution for everyone.

The White you see is camera flash reflecting off the lining under the dress

FABRIC: The shell is sheer, non-stretch, 100% Silk. Not as delicate as you may think. I found no pulls on either dress. Embroidered candle flames on the bodice and hemline are an iridescent Neutral shade. Dots at the sleeve ends are soft and appliqued to the Silk. Lining is Nude acetate. Crinoline is attached 1/2 way up the front of the lining. Rows of embroidery around the hem add weight to hold the lining down to prevent pouf.

This dress needed ironing to give it a smooth appearance.  I also ironed the slip underneath.  Once ironed, it needs only minimal touch up.

Note: I would happily pay $100 less for acetate, than pay for Silk Lining no one sees. Acetate also glides easily over tights so your skirt won't ride up.

Fully Recommended. One Star off for slip design. It's likely the sleeve issue is attributed to wide shoulders. My arms are by no means small, but my shoulders are narrow.

Styled with...

Divided Frond Booties by A Couple of - $218

Try all dresses in your size. Also size up and down. Order two dresses from online where stock is abundant. The sizing may be intentionally inconsistent to accommodate different body shapes for non-stretch fabric. Style with Gray, Gold and Neutrals.

Shop Anthro's Tangerine Flicker Dress by Tracy Reese HERE

SOS: I'm looking for the perfect belt to wear with my new dress.  It should not overpower the embroidery.  If anyone finds it, please let me know.

Interspersed Ponte Dress in Small - by Deletta - $168 - Sept 2011

Styled with...
High Gloss Belt in Yellow - Anthro Orig $28 - April 2011
 Quazar Necklace - Anthro Orig $398 2nd Cut $100 - Aug 2011

This dress would not have made it's way into my dressing room if Personal Shopper Domino hadn't put it there.  It turned out to be the sleeper of the day.

SIZE: TTS.  Small. I'm 5'5" Tall, 130 lbs, 34C, 35-28-36, Narrow Shoulders. Short arms. I normally wear a 6 or Small in Dresses.

Interspersed Ponte Dress - by Deletta - Anthro Orig $168 - Sept 2011

Styled with...

Rachael Sandal in Yellow - by Frye - Amazon $170 - July 2008

High Gloss Belt in Yellow - Anthro Orig $28 - April 2011

 Quazar Necklace - Anthro Orig $398 2nd Cut $100 - Aug 2011

FIT: Like a Dream! Flattering for a larger chest! Well placed pleats just below the waistline, allow this dress to drape nicely over the any size hips. Hides a small tummy pooch. A belt will define the waist further. Medium weight wool adds structure to the bodice. Raised seaming runs down the front and back, which nips and tucks in the right places. Stretch Lace at the shoulders, sleeves and upper back offers a custom fit. Plum or Black Bra will not be visible. Length is to the knee. Hemline is unfinished. 

NOTE: Remove threads used to tack down pleats at the hemline.

FABRIC: Substantial wool that will not fray if left unfinished. Layer a slip if sensitive to wool, and to prevent skirt from riding up while wearing tights.  Dry Clean. 

Interspersed Ponte Dress - Stretch Lace across the Back and Sleeves allows for a perfect fit.

Pullover styling.  Pockets would add bulk with this style.  Color is Deep Plum.  Style this with Boots or Pumps for Fall/Winter. Style with Red, Green, Yellow, Gold, Orange, Gray, Ivory and Black.

Styled with...

Berry Stitched Boots - by Lucky Penny - Anthro Orig $248, Sale $130 - Nov 2010
Infinity Belt in Gray - Anthro $32 - Dec 2010

Fully Recommended! Fits TTS! Needs a Full Slip and Dark Bra. Wool is heavy weight.

Styled with...
Marjorie Heels Christofoli - Anthropologie Orig $148 EA $75 - Aug 2011
Infinity Belt in Gray - Anthro $32 - Dec 2010

Shop Anthro's Interspersed Ponte Dress by Deletta HERE 


Coming up next is Anthro's Painted Plaid Dress 

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

Dear Anthro................

This issue concerns everyone in the Anthro Community. Please join me by voicing your concern to anthro@anthropologie.com

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

No Anthro Zone Review - Starring the Ruffled Cincher

Once in a Lifetime...

I finally managed to do the impossible.  Everyone else makes it look so simple.  I have always said it would never work for me.  Sceptical is my middle name.  Now I can happily eat my words. And who knows if it will ever happen again.  But at least I can say "I Belted a Cardi once in my Lifetime Without Looking Ridiculous."

Make-up and Hair left me out in the cold for this Once in a Lifetime. 

Looks like they skipped me over and did a fabulous job on the Anthro Model.

Review...

The Ruffled Cincher - Brown - Anthro $48, sale $34 - Sept 2010

See Mandy of Adoring Anthropologie review it here.

Shop the Ruffled Cincher Belt in Brown and Grey here.

The real star of the show in the Ruffled Cincher Belt.  Last week I stumbled upon about a dozen sale belts that didn't appear in the Accessories Sale Section.  Looks like someone made a boo-boo. I managed to grab one before they were returned to their original price.

I purchased the Belt in Size Small.  I am on the farthest out hole.  Probably could have went with the Medium.  The elastic panel in the back is ugly in my opinion.  It's also not very stretchy, so the belt feels a little tight.  But it's not uncomfortable, since the leather is very soft and supple. It's a very odd color Dark Brown with Gray tint.  I prefer more Golden Browns.

Co starring with the Ruffled Cincher Belt, is the Beautiful Turquoise Abuzz Cardi by Moth and the Fabulous Lynz and Leo Dress by Maeve. 

Hope you enjoyed another No Anthro Zone Review by Anthro Closet Chaos's Geo In California.

Anthro Sister Love, Laura (lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com

No Anthro Zone Reviews - Lass and Laddie Oxfords plus Many Roads Booties on Sale

Psst:  Lisa at Respect the shoes is giving away an Anthro necklace.  But hurry over and comment on her post for a chance to win, because the contest ends Friday Sept 17th 10pm EST.

Ladies.  These Oxfords are selling out and will never see the Anthro sale section.

I must mention that my pinched nerve disappeared last night.  This has happened before, only to return the next day to haunt me.  So far so good.  I return to work tomorrow. Please forgive the grainy iPhone images as I await the arrival of my new Kodak from eBay.

Anthro's Lass and Laddie Oxfords...

When I placed my order, all sizes were available, and there was only one review that did not address sizing.

 

Lass and Laddie Oxfords - by Poetic License - Anthro $98 - Sept 2010

 Shop these shoes from Anthro here.

Keep reading to find out where to shop these shoes for the same price, with free shipping, in all sizes...

As of yesterday, 3 sizes are sold out and do not show backorder dates.  There are now 16 perfect 5 star reviews. If you want them, it's best to order them now.  You really can't beat the price.

I plan to wear these shoes in one of a series of Babergh Dress outfits.  That's my story, and I am sticking to it.  They are perfect with the styling I have planned.

See me wearing and reviewing the Babergh Dress here. 

Shop the Babergh Dress here. 

DETAILS:
Brown Cotton Tweed rests on Modern Yellow Leather
Wide Deep Brown Satin Ribbon Lace-Ups
Butter Soft Leather
Wearable 3.5" Leather Wrapped Heel
Leather insteps are blazing Teal and Gold over a soft padded foot bed
Synthetic sole is brilliant Purple with Teal lettering
True To Size or slightly big

SIZE - Unfortunately I ordered one 1/2 size up from my normal US 8. I received UK 39.5. I was playing dress up in my Mother's shoes.

Please remember two things that will SAVE YOU MONEY when re-ordering anything from Anthro in a different size.
1. Call CS and ask that a Courtesy Return Label be emailed to you.  This waves the standard 5.99 for return fees.
2.  Mention that this is a re-order and request to have shipping waved.

FIT - You can clearly see the 1/2 inch gap at the back of the heel.  Despite the large shoe, I was able to determine that I would not topple in the 3.5 inch heels. But my heel was slipping up and down, and my foot sliding all around. I immediately re-ordered my normal US 8. Luckily I ordered these while FS was in effect. I am an average B width, only slightly wider across the front of the foot. I have no doubt my foot will be comfortable in the re-ordered size. I also found plenty of wiggle room in the toe box. The arch support is moderate and the shoe is highly flexible for comfort when walking.

A fabulously detailed Vintage shoe by Poetic License that does not disappoint. No need to worry if Anthro is out of your size.

 Zappos has all sizes for $97.75 in both Yellow and Black here.

Shop more Poetic License styles here.

Anthro's Many Roads Booties/Sandal... 

. 

Many Roads Booties - by Zita Maria (Italian) - Anthro $198, sale $100 - Sept 2010

 You can still buy them in limited sizes in glorious Purple here.

Yes! I chickened out on the Purple. I went with the brown for versatility. Neither the color, not the shoe disappoints.

As cute as the model shot is, I'm smart enough to know that the Anthro paired dress would not work for me.

DETAILS:

Rich dark brown leather with whip stitched edge (Purple if you are brave)
Wearable 3" stacked leather heel
Flexible padded foot bed
Whole sizes only
Order 1 whole size up (for example: if normally a US 8, order UK 39)
Back zipper that works freely

SIZE:  I wear size US 8. My foot is a regular width although slightly wider than most across the front. I ordered UK 39's.

 FIT:  Perfect!. These are exceptionally comfortable. The textured leather is soft brown. I didn't find the darker leather straps cheap looking as some reviewers online suggested. In fact, the straps are nicely finished, flexible and soft. You don't even need to use the buckles. There is a back zip.  The entire shoe is clean and free of defects.  Very well made.  There are no rough or jagged edges anywhere on my pair.

The heel height is very wearable in size 39.  Absolutely no pinching or rubbing on foot or toes. And they are cute on. The foot bed is soft and padded, and the front of the sandal is flexible for walking.

I treated my new booties to a coat of Mink Oil which turned them slightly darker for about 24 hours.

Be daring and order the Purple, because the Brown are gone. If I were younger, I would.

Shop a similar Zita Maria here.


See Fall styles and learn more about Zita Maria here.

Say high to my beautiful and fabulous MewTwo.  Does her Pokemon name date her?  She is just over 10 years old, and very well mannered.  Although watch out if she throws a Micheal Jackson Thriller look on you. Most days she camps out under the bed and snores loudly.  Her favorite foods to play with are green grapes and green olives.  She loves to lick the vinegar off the olives.

Stay tuned to Anthro Closet Chaos for a Special Guest Review by Rachel. 
Rachel will be reviewing Anthro's Best of the Bunch Cardi.

Best of the Bunch Cardi - by Gro Abrahmsson - Anthro $228 Sept 2010

I was unsuccessful finding reviews for either pair of shoes.  Do you know a Blogger who has reviewed either the Lass and Laddie or the Many Roads? 

Were you already planning to purchase either pair of shoes? Are you now going to purchase either pair after reading the reviews? 

What can I do that would make my reviews better? 
Are they too long?  Too short?  Just right?
Do I need more images? 
Do you want to see OOTD's of these shoes in the future?
Would you want more online links to shop the shoes?

Since I don't have a store within a 2 hour drive, would you like to guest review on ACC?

Send your guest review with images to (lauramartinsemail@yahoo.com)

To comment on the above post, or to answer my follow-up questions, or to just say hi how are you, please leave a comment.

Anthro Sister Love, Laura



No Anthro Zone Review: Down Sized Phlox and Coral Coat - Teachers Raised Me

I originally ordered the coat in size 6.  Anthro reviews suggested sizing up for adequate space to layer heavy sweaters. I was swimming in Phlox and Coral.  See my original review here.
I normally wear a 4 in coats.  5'5.5' tall, 123 lbs, 35-27-36, 34C, 31" ribcage, narrow shoulders, and shorter than average arms.

Sadly, I returned the size 6 coat and waited impatiently for credit.  The size 4 arrived yesterday evening.

Notice I am smiling despite my shoulder pain.  Thankfully I didn't order the size 2. The 4 was an excellent choice. Much thanks to Jamie of Thrifty Threads for her review here.  I am wearing a thin T shirt underneath.  There is more than enough space for a light to medium weight Cardi.  I don't require much more than that to stay warm in Central California. The sleeve length couldn't be more perfect.

I love the Black Ribbed Cotton Backing for the Tapioca Embroidery.  Cotton is the fabric of my life.  Thanks to Tracy Reese for offering a fabulous example of how to design a lovely Cotton coat.  No thanks to lining it in Coral Polyester.  For $288 it's acceptable, but barely.  Price Point: Silk lining would have upped the price tag by $100.

I adore the placement of the well hidden hand warmer pockets, also lined in coordinating dreadful Coral Polyester. Phooey! 

Doesn't this coat look lovely whether worn open or closed.  I am happy with the view from both the front and the side.  Some reviewers found the gathered skirt too Puffy.  The waistline sits low enough that the slight poof is flattering.  A different story if the waistline had been positioned higher.

You may well remember the Skirted Pea Coat by Idra from Anthro's November Catalog 2009.  It was a tragic story of a very cute coat with an Empire Waist.  Not many could wear it, including me.  If you want a fun review read, the Skirted Pea Coat is a blast. See my review here at the bottom of page one.

My advice is stick to your normal size for the Phlox and Coral Coat.  Unless you plan to layer at least 2 sweaters underneath.  In that case go for a wool coat instead of this light weight Cotton Jacket.

Phlox and Coral Coat - by Tracy Reese - Anthro $288 - Sept 2010

You can view and purchase the coat here.

Unlike the first coat, this one was not damp when I opened the packaging.  There were two loose threads I simply tied together.  The coat needs a good pressing. Other than that, I am impatiently waiting out the 90° F temps.

Finally!  I was very pleased with the placement of the embroidery on the first size 6 coat.  There were no large blank spots.  This coat is a different story.  The upper bodice is almost devoid of any recognizable embroidered blooms.  However the blank areas and embroidered areas are at least well balanced.  I would not want one obvious blank area for instance on the right shoulder.  I would rather have the blank areas balanced from side to side. I'm just picky like that. 

As my talented, beautiful, and smartly dressed Mother has always taught me, "A girl can never have too many coats."  For that matter, she can never have too many pairs of shoes either.

My Father's Mother warned him when she first set eyes on my Mother.  Grand mom Vi said, "Watch out for that one.  She loves nice things." My Mother was naturally dressed to the nines as she stepped out of her Yellow 68 Mustang. My Dad later rolled her prized car in the fog. He-he!  He was OK! Then he unbuckled his seat belt and fell on his head. My Father made the Mustang drivable again by laying on the front seat and pushing the roof up with his feet. My Brother and I were forced to ride around the town of Shafter Ca. in that car with the caved in roof.  Ha-ha! Teachers are so smart.  You never want to be raised by two in the same household.

Right Diane! So do you remember that eye sore of a car? 

Please leave a comment.  What is at the top of your Wish List for Fall?  Did you pick up any fabulous sale items today? 

I was forced to let pass the Doubly Adorned Dress, the River Tyne Tee, and the Remaining Lilies Cardi. My CA Auto tags are due. GAG!

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