OK, so I finally made it into Sears to try on that Lands End puffer vest. It was very cute, and very inexpesive ($40). The diamond stitching detail was problematic for me though. The largest diamonds were right over my chest area, making my chest the focal point. I wouldn't say it made the girls look bigger--but it just drew the eye right to my chest. I've spent the last 27 years trying to draw attention away from my chest, so I just couldn't see myself being comfortable in the vest.
BUT--I will suggest that anyone who is looking for a puffer vest, check this one out. The diamond stitching did create a visual waist -- which is very difficult to do with any puffer type outerwear. I fit into a medium, so it might not fit those of you who have trouble finding sizes that are small enough. Although, it does come in a petite XS.
I really liked the colors in real life too. My friend Shannon said she did not mind the diamond pattern on my chest, and she thought I should have bought it. But we all know how far out of our comfort zone we are willing to go.
