Hi all,

Just catching up with a couple of quick reviews: Two losers and two winners.

1: JCrew olive silk zip top: As some of you suspected, this was a really warm color, a very brown/gold olive as opposed to a green olive. Did not work for me at all -- back it went.

2: COS grey wool asymmetrical gather top: This had potential except for two things. First, it was HUGE. Would definitely need to size down, and even then, it would be oversized. But -- it is ITCHY. Like, really itchy. I cannot believe they product tested this with real women. No one suggested a lining or a softer grade of wool? It's crazy to me.

3. Louise et Cie black patterned leather Finch oxfords (photo). (Thistle, I think you asked about these!) These are beautiful, comfortable, and staying. I'm very excited for fall to arrive so that I can begin wearing them. They are a slightly feminine oxford, with a more delicate shape and a slight block heel, but they are substantial enough to feel like a good base for a lot of walking. I wasn't quite sure how I felt about the material at first; it's like a sueded snakeskin, not a refined leather -- but the shoes fit well, are comfortable, and I think will be very versatile, so I am keeping them. Nordstrom does not carry this version of the shoe. I could only find it on the Vince Camuto site. TTS.

4. Louise et Cie metallic Joey Tassel loafer: I tried these on at Nordstrom and they were incredibly comfortable and very cute. A muted metallic -- more bronze than full-on silver, and almost a slight matte to the finish. Quite luxe, actually. If I needed a flat for fall, I would have bought these too. They are really beautiful. TTS.

I hope these reviews are helpful!

Vivian