Free Shipping for Orla Kiely London Fashion Week

Orla Kiely is offering free shipping to US residents September 12-14 to kick off London Fashion Week. Featured in the presentation is the upcoming Spring/Summer 2015 collection, which I'm super excited about. I'm not sure when it'll hit stores yet, but for now check out all the looks from the current Fall/Winter 2014 collection below and shop the entire collection here.

Thursday Purseday: Orla Kiely Textured Vinyl Dog Show Print Ella Bag

Happy Orla Kiely Thursday Purseday!

I am completely smitten with my new Orla Kiely bag. The dog print is simply adorable and the colors are perfect for fall!

Textured Vinyl Dog Show Print Ella Bag

Fall/Winter 2014 Mainline Collection

Retail: $338

I was able to stand the purse upright for these photos because it's stuffed with paper. Once the paper is removed, the bag loses its structure and collapses a bit, but I don't mind this at all.

There's a two-way zip closure with coordinating gold hardware.

The bottom of the purse has matching gold "feet."

The cutest tiniest (yet functional) pocket with button closure.

Random dogs bare the Orla Kiely logo.

The pattern doesn't line up at the seems, but again, I don't mind.

The inside has a lovely bright red stem print jacquard lining.

One side has a zip pocket closure.

And the same lining continues inside.

The other side has two pockets with the attached key ring.

What I love about this purse is the option to carry it as a handbag, shoulder bag, or crossbody.

 Nail polish color: Don't Mess with OPI

The detachable strap is adjustable, and has matching leather accents.

What I'm Wearing:

Madewell Linen Heathered Timeoff Tee

AG Nikki Relaxed Skinny Jeans in 6 Year Manhattan

Gap belt

Miss Albright Morna Bow Pumps

Reviews: J. Crew Sterling Jacket, Quilted Puffer Jacket, Skinny Trouser Sweatpant, and Broken-In Boyfriend Jean

I stopped by J. Crew this weekend to check out their new arrivals, which are all currently 25% off. I picked out a few of my favorites to try on. Check out my thoughts on them below.

For reference, I am 5'3", 110 pounds, 32A bust, typically a size XS in tops, 0-2 in dresses, 25-26 in jeans.

Sterling Jacket

Size XXS

$198

I really tried on this jacket more for fun. I do love military-inspired jackets and I already own the Downtown Field Jacket, which is probably one of my favorite jackets. I was curious to see how this version would look with its longer length. I do like the casual look of it and the dark green color, but I guess I just don't prefer the longer looser fit of this jacket. I'm already in an XXS, and I felt like it was too big on me, although I know that's probably how it's supposed to look. I'm curious how a petite would look on me. Probably a bit better, but I think I'll stick to the Downtown Field Jacket for now. 

Quilted Puffer Jacket in Forest Shadow

Size XXS

$168

I had been searching for a quilted jacket as an alternative to a much pricier Burberry jacket I want. On the hanger, this one looked like it would be it, but on me it falls short. First of all, I love the darker forest green color - unexpected and different. The material feels so soft and cozy, and the gold hardware adds a nice touch. I felt very comfortable in my usual size XXS, and there was still enough room underneath to layer a bit, but not a lot. It just didn't look that good on me. I think I'm looking for something a bit more tailored, and while I know this is a "puffer" jacket, it poofed out a bit more than what I'd like and made me look a bit too broad shouldered. If you look at the model shot, it looked very tapered at the waist, which I really like, but it didn't look that way on me - just looks more straight and boxy. So this jacket is a pass, unless I can try it on in a petite size to see if that'll help with the fit.

Skinny Trouser Sweatpant in Heather Graphite Mineral

Size XS

$69.50

I love the track pant trend, but I'm still searching for the perfect pair with just the right amount of slouch, but also with enough details to keep it from looking too loungey. This pair comes pretty close. I like the drape and comfort, and the XS was the perfect fit sitting just at my waist without any pinching. But the material is a bit too thin as you can see any tiny bump and bulge underneath, which makes these seem more like lounging pajama pants than actual pants you can wear outside. I think the length was fine for my 5"3" frame,  but don't look quite as tailored as the model shot. What I do love though about these pants are the pockets and button closure and tie, details that make these look more like trouser pants as the name suggests. $70 is extremely pricey in my opinion for what are essentially sweatpants that are trendy right now, but probably won't be in a few months. If these pants were sold at any other time, they'd probably be sold for much less, but retailers are smart and know to charge more for this trendier piece.  I often ask my husband for his opinion because he's not swayed by trends like I am, and he laughed and thought they looked ridiculous. So the price tag, thinner material, and my husband's reaction sent these back to the rack.

Broken-In Boyfriend Jean in Colby Wash

Size 24

$135

First of all, these run large. I usually wear a size 25, but when I held them up to look at the waist, my husband laughed and said they looked huge. So down to a 24 I went, which fit perfectly around my waist. Sizing down made them fit better, and did not take away from the relaxed look. I am always searching for the perfect boyfriend jean. I own several pairs already, but each one fall just short somehow - either too long, not enough slouch, or not quite the wash I want. This one is another pair that falls short. On the display table, they looked awesome - a great vintage wash and perfectly broken in. On me I thought they looked sloppy. That's probably my number one issue with finding the right pair - I want a pair that has a slouchy relaxed look, but still tailored and polished enough to keep it from looking shapeless. I know these pants exist because I see them all the time on other women! I'm starting to think I simply do not have the body type to pull these jeans off. I was telling my husband that maybe it's my height that's throwing everything off. I tried adding a thinner, more rolled up cuff to tidy it up (see the third picture), and imagined myself wearing them with higher heels, but that wasn't enough to convince myself that these were the pair I'd been searching for.

Anthropologie Teacher Discount and Wish List

Anthropologie has generously offered a 15% teacher discount, and tomorrow is the last day to take advantage. I was personally thrilled when Anthropologie announced this offer because...well, for teachers, it's all about the little things. I truly believe we have one of the most difficult, yet important jobs in the world, and sadly we are often underpaid and overlooked. So when little treats like this come along, I instantly feel special, like someone out there gets what we're doing and truly appreciates us. So for my fellow teachers, you all rock! And enjoy this special discount set aside just for us! I haven't decided what to purchase yet, but here's what's currently on my wish list.

Perl Midi Blouse

$168

I'm not sure how much longer the crop top trend will be around, but even long after it's gone, I can still see myself wearing this super cute and chic blouse. The blue color and lace details are gorgeous.

Lace Opacity Tee

$78

A simple tee with just the right touch of feminine details.

Composed Pintuck Buttondown in Green

$78

I don't own a dog, nor do I want a French Bulldog, but this blouse appeals to me so much! Maybe it's the vibrant green background paired with the black and white motif, but it looks so cute.

Bonjour Tee in White

$48

I love the vintage look of this tee.

Heart Intarsia Cardi

$98

Hearts are always so cute and girly, and this sweater, with its relaxed fit, is super soft and cozy.

Scalloped Cocoon Cardigan in Cream

$98

I love oversized cardigans paired with a simple tank and skinny jeans.

Storystitch Cardigan in Taupe

$88

What first drew me to this cardigan in stores was the lovely taupe color, but I fell in love even more when I turned it around and saw the awesome eyelet detailing. This will make a great layering piece in the fall.

Citizens of Humanity Emerson Slim Boyfriend Jeans

$268

I am a huge sucker for distressed denim. I don't know why, but I'm always drawn to their relaxed vintage look. I already own several pairs, but I can't get enough of them.

Caye Scalloped Dress in Coral

$148

I absolutely adore this dress for obvious reasons, but the back cutout lace detail makes this dress even cuter.

Rokin Dress in Orange

$168

A fun polka dot dress for fall.

Cactus Flower Perforated Boots

$248

Every fall season, Anthropologie offers a new version of a cutout boot, and this year's version is just a fun and cute as the boots offered in years past.

Lisbon Booties in Black

$120

I have been obsessed with boots with buckle details lately, and these seem like the perfect pair.

Layered Salton Necklace

$68

The silver scalloped edges somehow remind me of clouds. 

Capri Blue Jar Candle in Volcano

$28

I have been wanting this candle forever. My local Anthropologie always has this scent burning in their dressing room and it always smells so wonderful. I instantly feel calm and relaxed. Just what a teacher needs! :)

Orla Kiely for Clarks Shoes Fall 2014

Today is the launch of Orla Kiely's second shoe line with Clarks. With Fall just around the corner, this collection is definitely darker and moodier than the last, combining textured, patent, and "pony effect" leathers. I admit I'm not as excited about this collection because I'm more of a flats kinda gal. I do love the look of heels, but they're not very practical for my everyday life of standing in front of my classroom teaching, nor on the weekends when I'm with my family and running around with my toddler son. But there are still some great options here that are on trend with the return of 90s grunge/gothic-like details.

Dotty Shoes in Black

Also available in Ox Blood and Ochre

$240

These remind me of a pair of high-heeled loafers I practically begged my Mom to get me when I was a middle-school kid in the mid 90s. They were super trendy back then, and they're making a comeback now. I like the thicker heel on these, which will make them more comfortable to walk in, and there's the added bonus of Clarks Plus cushioning. The dotted details and T-strap makes this pair a fun spin on an old classic.

Dorothy Shoes in Dark Brown

Also available in Black and Navy

$220

Similar in style to the Dotty Shoes above, these have a lower more sensible heel and classic Mary Jane style, minus the cap-toe detail and pony hair texture. 

Dilly Shoes in Ochre

Also available in Black and Ox Blood

$260

Dora Shoes in Navy & Green

Also available in Black and Ochre

$220

Loafers are a great way to embrace the menswear trend while still keeping everything feminine. I own a couple pairs of loafers that I like to pair with peg-leg jeans and a feminine blouse.

Dixie Boots in Dark Brown

Also available in Black and Ochre

$290

Daphne Boots in Black

Also available in Ox Blood

$280

These are by far my favorite. The combination of pony effect and textured leather make them interesting, and give off an almost tough gothic vibe. The classic cap-toe detailing remind me of a pair of Chanel boots I wanted, but these are far more affordable and just as chic. I'd like to pair these with skinny jeans and an oversized tee, rolled boyfriend jeans and a feminine blouse, or a Free People dress and tights.

Orla Kiely always has the most amazing attention to detail, which is seen here on the soles of her shoes.

And if that's not enough, each pair comes packaged in its own stem-printed shoe box and dust bag, which are surely to become collector's items themselves.

What do you think of Orla Kiely's latest collaboration with Clarks? Do you plan on purchasing a pair?

Orla Kiely Mohair Sweater: The Look for Less

Mohair Sweater in Lemon

$288

It probably doesn't take much guessing to figure out why I love this sweater so much. With its fun pop of color, this'll be a great sweater to help brighten up those dreary winter days. But if the nearly $300 price tag is conflicting with your wallet, I've found a look for less...

Bea & Dot Paris Cafe Cardigan in Jaune

$44.99

This cute alternative at ModCloth features a reversed scalloped design and a fun bright yellow, while the buttoned front lends to its versatility. It is made of a cotton/modal blend, making this a more affordable option. If you're not a ModCloth member yet, click here to join receive $15 off your first purchase!