I scouted the sale in person yesterday and it was worthwhile to do so. I tried on a lot of items (in sweltering hot dressing rooms). Here are some random observations:

-They had almost all of my wish list items in store, which surprised me.
-Seeing and trying things made a big difference for me in terms of assessing quality and fit. If I had ordered it would have been a massive return. Not a big deal, but still.
-Sales associates were busy and didn’t have much time to help, which was fine. When I had a question, usually about where to find something, they generally did not know the answer.

-Sizing was an issue for me and seemed to vary widely. I had high hopes for the Caslon relaxed zip front twill midi skirt. The length, fabric and style were great and the skirt would have worked well for my casual lifestyle. But the medium (I’m normally a 10) was very tight and I was swimming in the large. This happened with a few other things, too. Odd.
-The Caslon one-button knit blazer is a nice basic piece and the cut (visually nips in front with Princess seams in back) is flattering, but the M was a little small and the L was way too big. Quality is OK.
-The Kendra Scott Layla necklace did not meet my quality expectations for that brand. I wonder if it was specially made for the sale to different standards? Pass.
-Madewell Perfect Vintage Raw Hem Corset High Waist Straight Jeans were unique, fit true to size and looked nice, but they just weren’t right for me. Same for Veronica Beard and Paige jeans. Nice styles, but I didn’t love them on.

The best things I found were not on my list.

-Tahari ASL Hammered Satin Geo Print Midi Shirt Dress in Navy/Black Cherry was the best looking and most flattering item I tried at the sale. So pretty. But I don’t really need it. Same with an olive green Beatrice Animal Print Rails shirt dress. Very pretty, and runs quite large.
-I tried on the Farm Rio dress with the smocking on bodice and sleeves. It’s flattering and seemed TTS. I don’t wear a ton of prints, and this print was a LOT. It was overwhelming even at my height.
-Rails Camille Acid Wash Denim Blouse was really nice on. It’s kind of different and flattering. Runs a little big. If I can figure out how I to wear it I will order.
-The Blanc Noir Breakthrough Vest is a definite yes. I love the black and the champagne colors, but my heart belongs to the shiny black. Perfect for our winters here in Phoenix. Runs a little small. I may also order the Franco Sarto Diva slingbacks. Didn’t have a chance to try those.

I wish I had had better luck, but honestly, I don’t need much and I’m picky.

9 months ago