I haven’t had a chance to take photos of my last AT order, but wanted to share this keeper while sizes are still in stock. I liked all the colors this faux wrap top comes in, and went with the one that I own the least amount of. The material is on the thin side but is fitted, stretchy and comfortable. It works well tucked into pencil skirts or shorter, flared skirts for a more youthful look (my mind is already on holiday pairings!). The not-too-long length is also appropriate for wearing with pants.
I received this gallery tote (also in black) from AT a month ago and wanted to test it out thoroughly before posting. It is simple in design, but I’ve received a surprisingly number of compliments and inquiries about it from friends and strangers alike.
The tote is larger in size than what I’d typically purchase for my own frame, but has held up nicely hauling several pounds of stuff over the course of a few weeks. The pliable synthetic material (most people who complimented this bag were surprised to find out it wasn’t real leather) is thin and lightweight, which is a top requirement of mine for daily totes. The material has a suede-like feel on the inside and is unlined.
Since I used it to carry heavy items like a laptop, I used a base shaper that I already had for another bag. Without a shaper (which you can DIY with sturdy cardboard), heavy items caused the base to sag in at concentrated spots. Another downside is that there is no top zipper (just a magnetic clasp), but there is a small zippered pocket inside where I store my valuables. The side zippers in the four corners come down to reveal a print that I personally don’t care for, so I keep them zipped up. I’m pretty happy with this bag as an everyday tote, and would especially suggest it for anyone who likes the size and lightness of nylon Longchamp totes, but feel their structure-less look is too casual for a work bag.
I only found the black color left online, but have seen this navy one in-stores on sale for much less. My experience with this tote has caused me to take a closer look at AT’s faux leather handbag options. This convertible crossbody-to-clutch bag appears both sleek and functional, with a fair price after the 40% off. Putting the bright blue one on my list to check out in-person the next time I visit a store!
For reference, measurements of wrap top (very stretchy) in XXSP: 14.5″ across armpits, 12″ across waist, 21″ length, 22″ long sleeves. 95% polyester, 5% spandex.
Measurements of tote: 13″ long (looks a little wider due to the sides), 8.5″ tall, 5.5″ deep, 9″ strap drop length.
In sale news, I wanted to mention Shopbop‘s 25% off friends and family sale with code INTHEFAMILY25 (a few brand exclusions apply). It includes favorites like Clare Vivier bags, Michael Kors watches (here’s a petite proportioned one in 3 metal colors), Tory Burch, Clover Canyon, plus there’s a decent selection of size 5 or under footwear. I recently placed an order and was pleased with their customer service even though my item was not a keeper. There’s free 3-day shipping and returns on all orders, plus they do price adjustments and price matching to other retailers per their policy. For most US states (not sure which exactly), there’s also no sales tax on items which adds to the savings.
I had been looking for a darker trench with leather trim, and Elle kindly emailed me about this Rachel Zoe London trench, noting that her outerwear usually runs at least one size small. Sure enough, a size 0 fit me like a glove (I do have a sweater on), similar to H&M; sz 2, and even the waist placement and length were very good. The only alteration I needed was sleeve length. I don’t mind spending more on my outerwear and thought the price point was not bad given the fit, and especially for genuine leather components. This jacket was not a keeper as it had a little too much “edgy” hardware for my personal style (also note it was mostly unlined), but I’m certainly keeping my eyes open for other outerwear by Rachel Zoe in the future.
And lastly, Saks is also having their F&F; sale offering the same 25% off (through 10/20), with Burberry being one of the
eligible brands. The well-fitting Billington coat I tried on in this post is still left in sizes 2 and up.
Jean, that is one beautiful trench!
I've never been a fan of Rachel Zoe's style but I love that trench! I'm all about edginess. 🙂 That green top looks awesome on you btw. thanks for sharing!
I think you would take 0-2 in Ann Taylor, but it's hard to say. I am a typical UK sz 4 and usually need 00 petite or smaller in there, so just trying to convert the sizes based on my experience. Good luck!
You have the most beautiful & quaint little hometown! We love driving up just to stroll around. Did the chocolate tour once in the summer, etc. Also found this little restaurant Ceia Kitchen this time which was so good, it's on my list to go back!
Hi dear, i'm from Singapore and i love your blog.. i want to check out Ann Taylor apparels, but unsure of the sizing.. i'm a typical UK 8, or a VS size xs… can you please advise me? thanks so much!!
Are you posing in Newburyport? That's my hometown! I'd recognize Market Square anywhere. What brought you there?
Love the combo! That green is gorgeous on you!
I learned it from Wendy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LYAEz777AU
Thank you! I used a 1" iron here and followed Ping's tutorial: http://allaboutfashionstuff.blogspot.com/2013/05/easy-hair-tutorial-soft-waves.html
Yes I have! I love seeing his bags on the blog Classy Girls Wear Pearls. The company is actually local to MA and reached out about a factory tour…it's so rare to see traditional workmanship like that in the US these days so I hope to check them out soon!
Wow, love it! Would you happen to remember the approximate outlet price point? Thank you
Hi Daniela – Oh, I'm so glad you like it! Let me know if Bloomies does. I'd be surprised if they did, but that'd be a nice gesture!
I think this top is the only one I'm going to keep, although I did pick up the "Petite Lace Top Shell" sweater during an in-store sale. The moto jacket fits fine but sadly the "boucle" is more like a grandma ish yarn ball material. It's not itchy or anything but just didn't appeal to me like what I expected boucle to be like based on some skirts I have. Please let me know if you would like any measurements or other details!
It's OPI Manicurist of Seville : )
Hi there – I think I'm going to keep only this top. The other pieces all fit decently but I think the chevron print skirt is more versatile than the cowl top (although it depends on whether you have more bottoms vs tops that would coordinate with those colors), and the moto jacket I ordered had a granny-like material which I didn't love. Please let me know if you'd like any measurements on anything in particular!
Oh so cute! I was seriously tempted to try it, then remembered all the times I've tried kids outerwear from Burberry and how the fit never worked out for my body type. Thank you for sharing your find, though!
Love the wrap top! I like the zipper design on the bag! And the bag looks size-appropriate for petite!
http://www.StylingFun.blogspot.com
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simple, yet elegant. i love it. The green with the red bricks in the background is a nice touch.
Hi Jean, I'm a big fan of you since one week 🙂 I have a similar skirt so as soon as I saw this post I paired it with a long sleeve top and wore it to work. I will be following you a lot in the future.
http://gypzygirlbymickey.blogspot.com/ Please check out my hand made jewelry collection on my blog. That's my hobby, hope you like them.
Jean, thanks for the tip on Saks! Where else did I head but to the little girl's coat section for the Burberry trench?? (unfortunately sizes 12 and 14 are sold out…) But I came across this one which is almost the same as the Rachel Zoe trench you have on, slightly less expensive and minus the "edge"! Perhaps a good alternative? Called the Burberry Girl's Leather-Sleeved Trenchcoat if the link doesn't work http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306432801&PRODUCT;%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446600832&R;=5045377780129&P;_name=Burberry&N;=306432801&bmUID;=k753G3R
I really love your outfit! A good inspiration for the office…!http://beatrizemoreno.blogspot.com.es
Nice combination.
Looking gorgeous as usual! Love the green – would be great to transition into holiday wear!
-KSP
AT Loft is one of my favorites, too.
LOVE this ensemble on you. So sophisticated.
I love these outfits, especially the trench! great post and thanks so much for sharing as always!
http://myfashiondalliance.blogspot.ca/
I love the top so much! very work appropriate outfit. thanks for sharing it. xx. gigi. http://www.gigikkitchen.com
hello! which items did you end up keeping from your recent AT order? im on the fence on a couple of things and was hoping for a review if possible! thanks!
I've been looking for that parka/leather sleeve jacket every where.
xo
Maggie A
LOVE MAVIN
Love your nail polish. What's the color?
Love this wrap top I've been on a hunt for one.
love how you styled the wrap top! did you wind up keeping any other items from your order? i wanted to order the moto jacket but decided to wait for your review first 🙂
Thanks for the link! I had the same question as Ariana!!!!
Le monde des petites
Saw the answer to my question on the top of the comments!!!
So nice outfit! Love it, as usual!
Your scarf is so beautifully tied! What kind (shape) of scarf did you use?
Thanks!
Le monde des petites
Jean, I have the same HM scarf. You've inspired me to wear it more often. I also got the Burberry trench (Buckingham). Per your advice, I got the darker honey color. I love it a lot. Thank you so much! I got it through Bloomies 20% off event. It went on 25% sale on Saks. I am trying to get Bloomies to price adjust.
Always love your posts 🙂 If you're looking for an olive trench with leather sleeves, I saw a burberry one at the outlet that I loved (and fit pretty well for petites). I believe this is the same one: http://www.lyst.com/clothing/burberry-brit-short-leather-sleeve-cotton-trench-coat-dark-khaki-green/
I remember seeing Jean post a youtube tutorial on how she styles her scarf – the scarf part starts around 1.20 minutes in 🙂
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-ZO2AOkuZk
That is such a pretty & classic top – now that Ann Taylor is widely available in Toronto, I'm definitely going to check it out! Also love the second pic with the scarf and trench coat – you look gorgeous!
the tote really looks nice for faux leather. I am always on the lookout for work bags, leather and non leather. have you heard of frank clegg? he makes gorgeous genuine leather bags and luggage, located in the northeast.
Gorgeous outfit! And I love the scenery!
It's nice that bloggers receive free items from retailers for use and keep. Although I am happy that you did a fair review of the tote and was not necessarily swayed by the fact that it was a free item. I like the color of the tote, but would pass on it because the straps seem disproportionately thin for such a large size tote. With it being fake leather, it likely will not last very long in use.
Skirt is so lovely! Looks great on you. And the coat… oh the coat! <3
Dahlia
http://xlelamaa.blogspot.fi/
The green top & herringbone skirt make such a cute autumn outfit!
I love the combination of the grey and green, but I am afraid that I may not be able to pull off a look like that. Your outfit is just so gorgeous and beautiful!
http://sweetbubbliciouslove.blogspot.com/
Love your wavy hair! What size of curling iron do you use?
Shopbops ships out of Madison, WI- I know because I pay sales tax. The upside is that I usually get my item in one day! They are Amazon owned, I believe, so I'm guessing there is sales tax in states where Amazon has a physical presence as well. The tote is cute but not sure why we should spend 60 to 100 dollars on plastic, even if it is well made. Fifty dollars more can get you a beautiful leather tote, like cuyana
Would also love to learn how you tied your scarf so beautifully!
I've actually been eyeing the AT tote, so I'm so glad that you did a review on it! I love the way the Rachel Zoe jacket looks on you, too bad it wasn't a keeper, but I understand your viewpoint about it having too much hardware. Thanks for sharing the great sales going on!
Suzie Q
http://www.StyleCueBySuzieQ.com
GORGEOUS ! <3
http://style-squared.blogspot.ca/
I love how you styled your scarf! Can you give a quick tutorial?