I shopped this year by sending my long-time SA my wishlist. The items she was able to get in the store got to me pretty quickly. The ones she had to order have taken longer and many haven't shipped yet. I thought I'd post some quick thoughts to help others still deciding or waiting for the next phase of the sale.
The Noes
I was thinking it would be a good time to replace my black booties that are getting worn. However these two were too narrow for me. I have an average heel and slightly wide ball and medium volume feet. After trying them both on I thought maybe I just wasn't used to boots after a summer in sandals so I slipped on my trusty if worn faves and they still are still plenty comfy. So back these go.
These Wit & Wisdom pants were a disappointment. The web site says they have slash front pockets, but they actually just have decorative welts, and no pockets. The fabric doesn't pass my muster either, I wanted a good ponte knit and this is somewhat slick and plasticky. As I said in Kari's thread, the one thing the industry produces in abundance for plus sized women are black trousers, so I know I can do better. My normal size fit perfectly.
The Yeses
Sarto often works for me and these oxfords did the trick. They're definitely a bone or ivory, not white. They're pretty, low heeled, and comfy enough. Because of the laces they would work for a foot narrower than mine.
I happened to have on a pair of flowered cropped pants (see find) and they looked pretty with them as they picked up the white in the pattern. I'm excited about being able to keeping wearing these summer pants with the oxfords as the weather turns cooler and it never would have occurred to me to pair them. The funny part: I slipped the oxfords on without any foot covering and they um, expelled air with every step! I added a no-show sock and they were fine. Schwoo. No farting shoes for me!
I've gotten pickier about fabric recently after I passed on a few blouses and slacks that fit well and were a good color but I realized I avoided because the fabric wasn't pleasant. So I ordered knowing I'd be ready to return this blouse if it didn't meet my standards. I'm happy to report the fabric of this Halogen has a nice weave, a medium weight and good hand feel and is, for me, a keeper.
The Madewell cardigan isn't a top of the line fabric, but it's pleasant, fits well and I adore the color.
I wear an XXL, 1X or 2X in tops. In both of these the XXL fits well.
Hope someone finds this handy.
