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 - The Sugared Dress by Corey Lynn Calter

The Sugared Dress - by Corey Lynn Calter - Anthro $198 - July 2011

Anthro's Swift Current Cardi in Blue - by Tabitha - eBay $48 - Apr 2011

Space Between Wedges - by Schuler and Sons - Anthro Orig $158 Sale $80 - Mar 2010

In yesterday's Post (read HERE) I briefly discussed my top 2 favorite dresses. Then I shared the news of a new #1 Favorite Dress.  I asked my Readers to guess the identity of my New Favorite Dress. The count down starts with...

#5  Modcloth's 101 Ovations Dress by Taylor Dresses   Shop HERE

#4  Anthro's Tippi Dress by Anna Sui

#3 Anthro's Fragrant Valley Dress by Corey Lynn Calter

 #2  Modcloth's Atlantic-Pacific Dress by Corey Lynn Calter   Shop HERE

Jen of Vintage Glammz made an excellent Educated Guess!

Humor me! Pretend you didn't see the lead image and feign surprise.

And now for my new #1 Favorite Dress...

Anthro's Sugared Dress by Corey Lynn Calter  Shop HERE

Do you see a trend?

My interest was piqued the first time I saw this dress on Becca of Best In Shop. The color palette is stunning on this Blond, fair skinned beauty.

NO ANTHRO ZONE REVIEW:  The Sugared Dress by Corey Lynn Calter - $198 - July 2011

My resolve to wait for sale hit bottom last Wednesday.  As I sat in a training class bored to death, I suddenly whipped out my iPhone and placed my order.  

Bad Laura! 

I should have ordered The Sugared the previous week, while shipping was free.  Ha-ha!

SIZE:  Both my CLC dresses are size 6.  The FV Dress is snug.  The Atlantic-Pacific is perfect. Most reviews are suggesting TTS.  I made size 6 my educated choice. This dress is TTS for CLC.

I'm 5'5" Tall, 130 lbs, 34 C, 35-28-36.  Narrow Shoulders.  Larger than average Rib Cage at 31".

FIT:  It appears this dress is made for me.  The shoulders are a little wide and feel loose.  There is a tiny bit of gaping at the neckline.  The rest of the way down is sheer pleasure. My Girls are not squashed.  The bodice tailoring offers a great silhouette.  I was so happy when the zipper easily slid past my rib cage.  The waist seam hits at the perfect location and is a comfortable fit.  The length just covers my knees. I plan to take a tuck at the corners of the neckline to give my Girls added security.  The adorable cap sleeves can limit upward arm motion.

ISSUES:  This Dress has posed a few fit issues for many online reviewers.  Many found the bodice loose, and  gapping at the nape.  It's true, but for me the issue is minimal. 

DETAILS: 

Hidden side pockets. 

Pleating that starts at the waist and opens up down the skirt.

Back Zip with Hook and Eye.

Fully lined in thin White Cotton that is perfect for the Summer Months.

Narrow Dark Brown Belt unmarked (plastic/vinyl?) Two well made Belt Loops 

100% Cotton inside and out.Why is this Cotton Dress Dry Clean.  Cheap fabric?

(Anthro's Caranday Dress is 100% Cotton, Machine Wash,Tumble Dry)  

COLOR OPTIONS:

Navy Blue, Brown, Small amounts of Cream and White or risk washout, certainly Pink, definitely Agua and Bright Blue, and most especially Yellow. Mix Aqua and Pink. Pink and Yellow, Yellow and Aqua, all Blues and Brown. Liven it up. You get my drift?

The Sugared Dress - by Corey Lynn Calter - Anthro $198 - July 2011

Anthro's Swift Current Cardi in Blue - by Tabitha - eBay $48 - Apr 2011

To summarize my raving review, I paired this dress up with at least 8 Pairs of Shoes (not including boots stored away for Summer) and a dozen Cardigans. 

My Closet is hosting a welcoming party for The Sugared Dress tonight.  Prepare for a bombardment of Sugared Outfits in the future.  

I couldn't believe how cute this dress is with my new Poetic Licence Apple Pie Mary Janes.  

I was thrilled when I paired it up with my Schuler and Sons Space Between Wedges as seen below.

I was overjoyed to discover that so many of my J Crew Jackie Cardi's would shine over this dress.  

See Allissa of Sweet Allissum review the Sugared HERE

See Kim of Anthroholic review the Sugared HERE

Shop the Sugared (not on sale) at Anthro HERE.

Modcloth had the identical Fetching Fresco Dress HERE (sold out in a few days)

I think they had 2 of each size for $12 more than Anthro. Minus the plastic belt.

The Sugared Dress - by Corey Lynn Calter - Anthro $198 - July 2011

Space Between Wedges - by Schuler and Sons - Anthro Orig $158 Sale $80 - Mar 2010

Magic Carousel Necklace Etsy Japonicas 28 May 2009

Retro Rosie Earrings in Coral - Modcloth $10 - June 2011

Petite Resin Clockwork Cuff in Pink - by Luc Kieffer Paris - Anthro orig $240 2nd cut sale $70 - Mar 2009

What do you think of my New #1 Favorite Dress?

Did I wisely move the Sugared to the top of the list?

Or should one of the other 4 Dresses in my Top Five 

(listed at the beginning of this post) be in the #1 spot.

Anthro Sister 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 - Modcloth's Enchanting Entomologist Dress by Corey Lynn Calter

Modcloth's Enchanting Entomologist Dress
by Corey Lynn Calter

I would love to thank my Aussie friend Jen of vintageglammz for this marvelous adventure.  I clicked a link to her favorite thing and found this dress.  And one enchanting dress this is.  The instant I laid eyes on it, I was struck dumb. Entranced by a vision of glorious Silk Butterfies floating about me. What was I thinking, ordering a dress with no reviews to guide me.  There is only one explanation.  A SPELL was cast upon rational me.

Leather Belt Included

I am the proud owner of Anthropologie's Fragrant Valley Dress by Corey Lynn Calter - Size 6.  I love everything about the FV dress. The Silk Print with it’s rich colorful floral pattern on Black background.  One of the very rare Floral Dresses in My Closet. The simple, comfortable, easy to wear fit and style.  The year round versatility.  What I hoped for was another CLC dress that had the same characteristics as Anthro’s FV Dress.

See Anthro’s Fragrant Valley Dress by Corey Lynn Calter HERE, and HERE.



Fragrant Valley Dress - by Corey Lynn Calter  - Anthro Orig $198 Sale $100 - June 2010

The Good Stuff in SIZE 6:

1. Gorgeous Silk! Soft and Glossy! What you can't see from the online images are Pastel Green Butterflies along with Black, Blue and Red. These fantastic colors make styling this dress with Cardi and Pumps a snap.

2.  Fully lined in Yellow Cotton.

3.  The back Zip is made by YKK.  The best there is.  Hook and eye are at the top.

4.  The Bodice is Boned. The construction is top notch!

5.  At 5'6" the hemline hits just above my knees.

6.  The construction is top notch!

7.  The leather belt is stamped by Corey Lynn Calter, but made in China.  I wasn't impressed by the belt, but it does carry a certain aged, vintage impression.

First Attempt...

1. I tried the dress on with a bra. The waistline seemed to land several inches above my natural waist.

2.  I could not zip the dress past my Rib Cage (30"). Although I could hook it at the top.

3.  The top of the bodice was several inches too big and hung away from my chest.

Second Attempt...

1.  I went at it bra less, after realizing that was the reason for boning.

2.  I put the dress on backwards and zipped it all the way up.  Then carefully turned it around and shimmied into it.

3.  I then pulled my…well for lack of better words…chest up. 

4.  The dress fit, but I could barely breathe. It’s obvious this dress is meant to be worn bra less. Something that should have dawned on me when I read the word boning.

The problem is, the GIRLS are spilling out to the North, East and West.

This dress is exactly as Modcloth states…a PARTY DRESS!

Not what I was hoping for!

If you are not so modest about having your Girls spilling out over the top of this Marvelous Little Silk Dress…

Shop Modcloth’s Enchanting Entomologist Dress HERE.

That kind of presentation is not for me. I sadly returned my Spring Dream Dress yesterday.

Any day now, a new dress will catch my eye!  In the mean time, I wait for Anthro’s Magellan Dress and Land of Springs Dress to make sale.

Both Dresses Reviewed HERE.

Anthro Sister Love under a SPELL, 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

Anthro's Phlox and Coral Coat- A Review for Chrissy

This is officialy my first full Blog Review. My new addition finally arrived last night UPS. Earlier in the day three sale items from last week also arrived USPS.  I dread when all packages arrive the same day.

I was up early this morning to take photos for this review as promised.  Chrissy of Passion For Fashion is waiting patiently for my test drive before purchasing Anthro's Phlox and Coral Coat by Tracy Reese.   It might be best to order soon.  Two sizes are on back order.

Chrissy, This coat is absolutely fine.  More than fine. Superb.  I only wish it wasn't 95 degrees F outside.  It will be several months before I can don this fabulous masterpiece.

PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE, OF WHICH I HAVE NONE!

SIZING:  I normally wear a size 4 in everything.  I'm 5'5.5" tall, 125 lbs, 35-27-36, 34C.  I have a larger ribcage and bust than the average size 4.  I am narrow through the shoulders. My arms are also shorter than average. 

REVIEWER COMMENTS:  Several reviewers suggested sizing up.  Most justified the suggestion due to a snug waistline when layering heavy clothing.  Some also commented that one size up was not enough, and are considering re-ordering 2 sizes up from their normal size. There was one comment concerning blank spots without embroidery.  There are no blank areas on my coat.

CONCERN:  Total confusion!  I am swimming in the 6. Is it possible we have inconsistent sizing?  I am no where near a store.  It would be helpful if someone could check this irregularity out by trying several coats all the same size.

 

FIT:  The length will work for most gals.  I am thankful the waist is properly located and not under my bustline. The coat is big through the shoulders, bust, and waist.  I am wearing the Lolland Sweater Dress under the coat.  For now I will keep it.  But if you want the coat to appear as it does in the model photo (fitted) there are some possible sizing inconsistencies to be addressed. 

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

You can buy it here

FIT CONTINUED: I was surprised to find that the sleeve length was just an inch or so too long for me.  So take this into consideration. You may want to try the coat on in the Store, or at least inquire about sleeve length if ordering online.  The sleeve length may increase with size and the overall length may also increase with size as well.

FABRIC and LINING: The canvas backing for the applique is BLACK cotton. The applique color is TAPIOCA not white as it looks in the online images. The lining is PINK 100% Polyester. Yuck to the Polyester. But there is a price point here. Silk would have upped the price to close to $400. It's nice and slippery for easing into the coat.


DETAILS:  The Tracy Reese name is Crewel Princess.  As in creweled embroidery.  How fitting and cute.

The Coral trim at the wrist and hemline claims velvet.  It doesn't appear to be velvet.  But still very eye catching.  Sadly the buttons are light weight plastic. None have come loose, but are not sewn on well. The button holes are outlined in the same Coral thread.  There is a hook at the stand up collar, Another at the waistline.  Two over sized snaps below. Hand Warmer Pockets are well hidden in front and lined in the same PINK Polyester as the Lining.

PACKAGING:  My coat was hot and slightly damp upon arrival.  Possibly sizing on the coat?  It quickly dried and appeared in perfect condition within 20 minutes. I did lightly iron a few areas that were creased.  I used a sticky roller to remove fussy bits of threads. 

 

My favorite coat of all Anthro time would have to be Leifsdottir's Diamondplate Coat from the 2008 August Revival Catalog. The original price was $398, I ran away with it on sale for $150.  These coats are neck and neck favorites.  Price point is the Diamondplate has 100% Silk Lining, Velvet pockets, and a third inside pocket for gloves, or sunglasses also lined in Velvet. 

Waiting for the sale price was such a sweet deal for this coat.  More than 50% off.  My point is, with the ratings and reviews so far, I don't expect the Phlox and Coral Coat to make it to sale in all sizes. $288 is a bargain for the coat at full price. It's your money and your obsession.  I wanted it now.

I am working on a lovely post for the Pigment and Canvas Dress by Nathalie Lete on sale for $60 at Anthro, was $248.I will be returning this gorgeous, well fitting dress. When I added up the damage for the three sale items from last week, I realized for $15 more I could have ordered the Babergh Dress.  So that is my quest 2 weeks from now after I receive a refund from returns.

Love Laura (GeoInCalifornia) lauramartinsemail