Forever 21 Essentials, Thrifted Finds and J.Crew Deals

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Forever 21 polka dot sheath dress – size XS

Likes: I love the simple and classic design. There is a hidden back zipper and the dress is fully lined. The color is navy with white polka dots but the polka dots are sewn instead of just a print. It has a banded waistline , scoop neckline, darted bust and waist and back slit. I was quite impressed with the weight of this dress – very well made. I am loving the Essentials line! 
Dislikes: The XS is big on me but can be easily slimmed. The length is a tad too long for someone my height. I think once this is tailored, it will look oh so perfect.
Verdict: Keeping
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Merino wool sweater – size small

Likes: I’ve been wanting the J.Crew tippi sweater in this color but it’s sold out in XXS so I gave this a shot. I was expecting it to be poorly made and not 100% wool. The color is exactly the color I wanted and is 100% merino wool. The size small fits roomy so it will be easy to layer with (which is what I wanted). It comes in four colors and is on sale for $17.36 – not bad for merino wool.
Dislikes: The rounded neckline is a bit wider than I had hoped for. 
Verdict: Keeping
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J.Crew postage stamp in indigo – size 00

I scored this in-store for $35 on final sale. The waist is very big but I think I can fix that. I’ve been wanting and looking for the postage stamp in navy tweed but haven’t been able to find it in a 00.

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J.Crew tights (available in XS ) in heather carbon and brown

I got these for $6.99 in-store and couldn’t be happier. I have been searching for a gray pair to replace my last favorite H&M divided tights. I also needed a brown pair of tights that weren’t too opaque and these both fit the bill. The small/medium’s fit me okay but I was able to find the heather carbon online in XS. They are very nice quality (made in Italy) and is not too thick or opaque.
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Left: Original hem – Right: Hem taken up

This navy Bebe polka dot pencil skirt is my latest thrift store (Goodwill) find. It was only $4.99 and fits me like a glove. I love how the dots are subtle and the back buttons give it a vintage-y vibe. The skirt was in brand new condition and is 100% cotton so I was able to wash it immediately without having to spend money on dry cleaning. I also scored a vintage navy wool skirt for $4.99. It’s a thick wool (100% wool) and is very well made. I couldn’t believe how small the waist was (same as Bebe skirt). All it needs is slight slimming on the sides and the hem to be taken up a bit. 

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I am also eyeing these items at Forever 21:

What kind of deals have you found lately?
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Leave a comment!

  1. looove the sweater and bebe skirt! but don’t take up the hem – the longer pencil shape gives it a more vintage look and is quite flattering. keeping this one long would be a nice balance to all the other traditional pencil skirts you wear so well.

  2. looove the sweater and bebe skirt! but don't take up the hem – the longer pencil shape gives it a more vintage look and is quite flattering. keeping this one long would be a nice balance to all the other traditional pencil skirts you wear so well.

  3. love your find! it’s a great idea to tailor your cloths…they fit amazing!

    xoxo
    Mady

    thegirlfromthemirror.blogspot.com

    • Hi Lacey! Sorry for the delay – I got it from Ann Taylor factory a couple years ago but they tend to bring it back so keep your eyes open for it πŸ™‚

  4. Hi! I bought this dress after reading your blog and the size XS fits me wonderfully! However, aside from simple pearls, how would you style this because it is such a statement dress. It would be nice to wear it for the super cold winters here in the east coast. Maybe a post on how to winterize and accesorize the dresses you like or bought? πŸ™‚ THank you!

  5. Hi! I bought this dress after reading your blog and the size XS fits me wonderfully! However, aside from simple pearls, how would you style this because it is such a statement dress. It would be nice to wear it for the super cold winters here in the east coast. Maybe a post on how to winterize and accesorize the dresses you like or bought? πŸ™‚ THank you!

  6. Hi Lacey! Sorry for the delay – I got it from Ann Taylor factory a couple years ago but they tend to bring it back so keep your eyes open for it πŸ™‚

  7. Hello! I love the navy polka dot dress from Forever 21 & was wondering if you might be able to help me with the sizing? Would you mind me asking your height and weight? Or, if that is too personal. I am 5’5 and about 105lbs. Thank you I really appreciate your help. And I love your blog!

    • Thanks so much! I’m 5′ tall and 92 lbs. πŸ™‚

      The dress is big on me and had to slim it. Hope this helps!

      β€’Sent from my iPhoneβ€’

  8. Hello! I love the navy polka dot dress from Forever 21 & was wondering if you might be able to help me with the sizing? Would you mind me asking your height and weight? Or, if that is too personal. I am 5'5 and about 105lbs. Thank you I really appreciate your help. And I love your blog!

  9. I have that f21 dress. I got the xs and it fits me well, but just like you I think its a bit long. Might need to take it for alterations πŸ™‚

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