I loved the concept of “windowpane” print after first sightings on Elle and Wendy. This modern version of plaid in basic black + white is on-trend, yet classic enough for more conservative wardrobes. To cut down on unnecessary purchases, I haven’t visited H&M; in two months and only found this blazer thanks to Vicky. It’s part of their Divided juniors line and should currently be in stores (Boston ones were stocked as of last week).
Although H&M; is considered “fast fashion,” many of my pieces from there have lasted years of regular wear. I’ve yet to find blazers for work anywhere else that fit this well in the shoulders and torso (hardest and priciest parts to alter). To avoid falling into the disposable fashion cycle, I suggest shopping there with a selective “long-term” mindset, looking for pieces that are worth the time/ money for any necessary alterations and cleaning. Contrary to the AT lace dress, I dry clean all blazers to not risk damaging the structure – even if they’re labeled machine-wash. I’ve also learned to avoid pilling-prone rayon, and look more for smooth polyester, 100% cotton, ponte, or sturdy weaves. The cost of tailoring plus regular care may exceed the garment price, but results are well-fitting pieces that can become wardrobe staples.
I wore this to work last week with a simple tweed shift dress and black Longchamp tote. I couldn’t resist bringing it out again for a weekend dinner with white shorts.
Design: I love the clean collarless design and upper notches. There are also two side pockets in the front. I’m wary of stripes or checkers from inexpensive brands, because little attention is usually paid to matching up the patterns along each seam. I was surprised that there was noticeable effort in lining up the grids on the sleeves, front, as well as the back center (pictured below). There are two side panels on the blazer where the grids unfortunately do not match the neighboring panels at all, but they are at least symmetrical on both sides.
Fit: Like my other H&M; blazers, the shoulders and torso fit very well (about a size smaller than Ann Taylor 00P’s, for reference) but the sleeves needed alterations. Below right is the original sleeve, and below left is after slimming and shortening. A little tailoring can make the difference between sloppy and neat.
Slimming sleeves yourself is very easy (followed the steps in my old tutorial), and I prefer to do it at home to get to the perfect width. Shortening lined sleeves, unfortunately, takes me hours and doesn’t always come out right. I wore this with the sleeves folded up, before dropping it off at my tailor for professional shortening.
Material of this blazer is 64% polyester, 34% viscose, 2% elastane. Fully lined. Made in China. Measurements of a size 2 are approximately: 13.75″ across the shoulders, 15″ armpit to armpit, 19″ length, and 22.5″ original sleeve length.
After admiring the Manolo blue suede pumps on Kelly for over a year, I finally decided to order the similar J.Crew Everlys. As luck would have it, my size sold out while in my cart, so a quick eBay search yielded this pair for about $110 (bought from this seller). They were listed as new with the inside label crossed out in black marker – I was hesitant due to this, but the quality exceeded my expectations upon arrival. I love the suede uppers, leather soles, sleek, pointed toes, and walkable 3.5″ heel height. The marker on the inside is unsightly, but can be covered with a thin heel pad.
Note: J.Crew pumps run at least half smaller than AT in my experience, and the Everly style fits especially narrow in the pointy toe. I went half a size up from AT shoes, but the toe area was still snug on my bigger-sized foot. I tried on a non-leather pair of Everlys a while back which were not comfortable, but leather / suede seems more forgiving and stretches out. After a few wears, these now feel pretty good in the realm of pointy toe heels (walked
nearly a mile in them the other day) and have been a welcome addition to my plain pump collection.
Thanks for the tip! Their pumps are a little loose for me, but seem to be a great value for those who can fit.
I know someone else who really enjoyed her lessons there! Will definitely have to check it out.
Hi A, they are the higher 4 inch ones. They definitely are on the higher end for work and the wooden heel is probably not appropriate for conservative business environment. My current job is more business casual so they are fine. I haven't seen the 3.5" heels (would love them!)… only the lower ones around 2 inches.
Hi Keitha – Thanks for the info! The items shipped from VA where I know J.Crew has large warehouse sales…jealous of those who can go to these sales!
Hi Jean,
The seller purcahsed the shoes from a J.Crew sample sample sale and that is the reason for the black marker. I bought a pair of Everlys from their last sample sale and my pair has the same mark on the inside as well.
I love this outfit. So chic. Windowpane print is classic, but has a very modern appeal, especially in this cut!
I am in total agreement about slimming sleeves. It makes so much difference in the appearance of a blazer!
Cassie
http://stylecassentials.blogspot.com
hey jean. I was wondering.. how many inches are your ysl heels? I have a pair and they are so high.. (4+ inches) too high that i am not sure if they are exactly work appropriate. do you think 4 inches is okay? i heard from a few that they come in 3.5 heels as well.. looking forward to your feedback. thank you!
-A
The black marker inside the heel is so weird! Why would they do that? :/
When I saw the post title/picture I immediately thought of Elle. 🙂 Looks nice styled both ways…I like the black/white theme with a small pop of color.
Love your new pumps! I've been wearing my blue pair a lot this year!
xoxo, Julie @ OBSESSED
H&M; makes a very similar pump. I have it in black, and despite it being my most-worn shoe and really inexpensive it's held up well (I've gotten the heel tips replaced at least a half dozen times since I got them in the fall, a testament to how much use they've gotten). They still had them in stock the last time I was in H&M; (maybe a month ago) in all kinds of colors. I recently saw someone with the blue ones, which look identical to the ones you're wearing.
Love the outfit, Jean!
Very pretty Jean! I agree completely with you about H&M; Blazers – they fit petites like a dream, and with careful care, hold up pretty well over the years. I have a white one that is a closet staple and had to have the sleeves shortened as well.
Have you ever heard of Grey's Fabric and Notions in the South End (On Harrison Street)? It is an adorable sewing shop run by a smart young woman (Sarah). Her fabrics a just dreamy and her shop is very well edited.
She offers sewing classes and something called a "Crafty Foxes Sewing Club" – I think you can bring in your projects and get advice from Sarah and the other sewers. I popped in for the "Basics" class and found it to be a great, low-key, no stress. Hopefully, I aim to be able to do simple alterations by myself soon.
You should check it out if you haven't already.
You look incredibly elegant and crisp, Jean. The perfect antedote to the way I'm feeling melting in this heat! Your shoes are just right too – you look really great.
Flora
So cute and classy! Did you take the blazer to the tailor before or after you DIY slimmed it? And if it was after, did they say anything about it?
Love it!
So classy and chic!!! <3
About women and not only Blog
Love the styling with the shorts and the blazer! Perfectly chic and polished.
I love the collarless idea of the blazer, its beautiful
I love the classic black & white outfit, Jean. : ) By the way, I just wanted to let you know that I've been having problems clicking on your blog through Bloglovin. It just leads me to a blank page with your blog's header. It's only been happening to your blog and it's been like this for the past few posts! I wonder if anyone else is having the same problem?
I wouldn't normally think to pair something as bright as those blue suede pumps with an all black & white look, but seeing it here, I totally love it!
I love that blazer, and both ways you styled it!
I love this blazer on you and Vicky! It looks great with your summer tan! This window-pane type print is very classic! It reminds me of the 1960's Audrey Hepburn (http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m7qwa9QzQt1rr6fg8o1_500.jpg) and Faye Dunaway (http://25.media.tumblr.com/cb9458aba9ae3d257d13d473f7219b3b/tumblr_mlejf2s9YX1qigaa4o1_500.jpg)
So pretty Jean! The looks that you compile, are always so unique and inspirational 😀
love the blazer, I better check it out at h&m;
http://fashionrealm.blogspot.com
Oops, I meant 50% off!
Love both outfits! Those Everlys are gorgeous. Thanks for the outfit inspiration.
I also wanted to share that the AT Perfect Patent Pumps are on sale for 50% in stores and online. I found a better deal at the store, and was able to score a pair today for $35!
Shorts with a blazer**
Where would you wear this to? Isn't it super hot in Boston? When I wear shirts with a blazer I feel like I look silly in 90 degree weather…
Agreed about doing a post on different materials. I don't know anything about materials and want to avoid buying stuff that pills. Is rayon the only one to watch out for?
Thanks!
Love the JCrew bag! Great outfit overall.
I love the windowpane white on white look with the cobalt blue shoes! I actually had a H&M; blazer sleeves slimmed recently, and I was taken aback by the large price difference in shortening the sleeves, so I'm glad you noted the time dedication needed that part.
Suzie Q
http://www.StyleCueBySuzieQ.com
Love the outfit Jean, the blazer is so cute! In regards to your pilling-prone comment, do you think you could make a post about materials? What to look out for etc? Would love your insight!
Love the Everlys and windowpane pattern, I saw that Vicky tweeted it, but I couldn't find it at my local H&M.;
Hi Jean,
What size do you normally wear in Theory tops? I am typically a XS/S in JCrew for comparison, so I am wondering what size you think I would be in Theory (trying to find tops on ebay). Thanks in advance!
-Michelle
You look fabulous with a tan! Loving your heels.
what a great blazer! i love H&M;'s blazers too, they fit really well and are decent quality.
xo julesinflats.com
That blazer is so pretty and I'm sure will be a versatile piece for you 🙂
Love the outfit, and the detailed post. I never thought about the benefits of tailoring for a piece that costs less than the alterations, aiya.
ladyindo.blogspot.com
I love this look on you. Very summer chic!
http://www.petitestyleonline.com
Love your Everlys! I've found the color to be surprisingly versatile. =)
how cool is that!
xoxo from rome
K.
kcomekarolina.com
Love white outfits – thanks for the inspiration!
http://zipstyleseattle.com
Oh wow! I, too, recently purchased that blazer. I love the look with the white shorts.
xoxo,
Maya
http://www.petiteandunique.com
Those shoes look fantastic! Beautiful color and awesome classic style.
You are so right about H&M; blazers (I'm wearing one right now). I am super tempted to go buy that blazer. I'm a sucker for black-and-white, and I love the way a jacket/blazer can rescue an outfit.
İ love your blazer <3
youre looking so fresh in the white!! love it with the shorts! xo
http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-weekender.html
Looks fantastic… great job
I love love love your outfit!
Thank you for the detailed review, as always. I just bought a pair of checked pants and this blazer would be great to match. Now off to call the local H&M; to find one in my size!
Both outfits are gorgeous Jean. I saw Vicky tweet that blazer and it caught my attention but I haven't popped into an H&M; for a while.
Great choice on the shoes too – glad the risk worked out well!