CAbi?

I just thrifted this pair of tweedy trousers originally from CAbi, still with the tags on. I'm impressed by the quality. I know that CAbi is usually sold via consultants and home parties. Anyone ever go to one, or regularly purchase the brand?

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11 years ago

Urgent

11 replies

Latest reply was from Laura (rhubarbgirl)

Pat_P

Active Member

My local consultant holds a fashion show for the new season twice a year. I've attended one and later purchased a couple of items. I've been very happy with the style and quality -- I have gotten several compliments on each. My only frustration is that my size (xl) is rarely available to try on at the events, so I have to order something to try it on. Since there is a charge for both shipping and returns, that can get expensive!

11 years ago

Joy

Veteran

I've been to a party. The clothing changes fairly often I think, but much of it was boho and embellished (think Chicos). I also found most of it too big for me even in the smallest sizes. It seemed expensive too. The pieces did seem pretty well made though.

11 years ago

annagybe

(website)

Veteran

I think I remember Angie saying she often finds it in client's closets and they don't survive the edit.

11 years ago

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

Pat, that would be frustrating. I'd think they'd have one of every size at the show, but maybe there are too many garments each season to do that? Joy, there's definitely a Chico's meets Loft vibe happening, at least on their website. But the basic pieces look more my style. I agree that the sizing seems to run big - I bought a 12 and it's pretty much a perfect fit, and I'm a 14 at AT and BR right now. For smaller ladies that would be frustrating.
Interesting, Annagybe. I just searched the boards and there are several previous conversations about them, but not recently.

11 years ago

TraceyLiz65

(website)

Veteran

I thrifted a pair of white skinny's and they do run small as I am typically a 6, but the 4's in CABi fit like a glove. I love them!!!!

11 years ago

carter

Veteran

I have several Cabi pieces, some 5-10 years old and still looking good. I do agree that, like Chico's, Cabi is hit or miss in both quality and style. I've bought a few losers. Interestingly, all the losers have been bought at parties, where I felt obligated to support my neighbor. The winners have come from the Cabi outlet and a sample sale. I just bought a new Cabi jacket last month that I love. I say, great find!

11 years ago

karymk

Veteran

I go to Cabi parties and have scored some great pieces. Carol Anderson is from my area so ladies feel very confident with quality and returns are no hassle.

11 years ago

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

Thanks, everyone - I may contact them and see if there's a rep in my area. Also, I just found an outlet store relatively close - within a couple hours drive - so maybe I can check that out soon too.

10 years ago

Firecracker (Sharan)

Veteran

I have bought some clothes from CAbi, at parties. The items I have bought have not been favorites, though, and more often end up as orphans. So I decline party invitations now. The quality has seemed good, and the price is, I suppose, reasonable for the quality and like a lot of things, even better if you can get them on sale--or thrifted, as you have done. My issues are with the CAbi system of buying at parties--it doesn't lead to good buying decisions for me.

10 years ago

Marlene1

Active Member

I wonder if the sales reps have to buy their samples? That would account for the fact that I very often find new-with-tags CAbi items in my local resale store. Also would explain why there is not a full range of sizes at CAbi parties, as Pat notes above. If you like CAbi, check resale.

10 years ago

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

Marlene, I bet you're right - the pants I found were probably a local rep's sample that she donated after they didn't sell.
Firecracker, makes sense that buying at parties could lead to some impulse decisions, for sure. But they are returnable if necessary, right?
I went looking for CAbi on ebay and found a lot of listings - some seem overpriced even if they're unworn items. But some could be a decent bargain.

10 years ago

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