Alexander McQueen at the Met

Ever since rumors started circulating that Sarah Burton, the creative director of Alexander McQueen, would be designing Kate Middleton's wedding gown, I've had McQueen on my mind. Burton was a long time friend of McQueen and basically his right hand person for years, so it makes sense that she would succeed him as creative director of the company. Of course, it won't be officially announced that Burton is designing Middleton's gown as tradition dictates it remain a secret. (Good luck with that!) However, as a British designer, it's not entirely a surprise that she would be one of the top choices for the royal family. 

We'll all have to wait until April 29th so see Burton's design, only a few short weeks away- I can hardly wait! And as if that isn't exciting enough, shortly thereafter, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC will be hosting a large exhibition of McQueen's work. The exhibit will include over 100 pieces that span his 19-year career, which tragically ended with his suicide in February 2010. 

I found some amazing pictures and information about the exhibit titled "Savage Beauty" here. Take a few minutes to hop over there and see this small sampling of his genius and I can guarantee you'll be ready to book your trip to the city to see his designs in person. I know I am! 

Accessories Anonymous: Jewelry Parties

On Saturday night I went to one of those at-home-jewelry-party events. It was a lot of fun, mostly because it combined some of my favorite things: food, friends and shopping! I tried not to go too crazy spending a lot of money, and ended up purchasing just a pair of earrings and a bracelet. I'm happy with my purchases and looking forward to when they arrive in the mail (should be any day now), but the whole experience got me thinking about these types of parties.

These events are usually hosted by someone in their home and then a representative will bring samples of the products and everyone can have fun shopping and socializing. Sometimes the rep will give a demonstration and talk about the products. Other times, it's less formal, with guests browsing through the items and asking questions of the rep if need be. The concept is far from new- remember Tupperware parties? It pays to be the hostess because usually the hostess will receive a percentage of the party sales toward her own purchases. There are often bonus "hostess gifts" as well- sometimes you automatically receive one, other times it is based on the sales at the party. In the end, if you're the hostess, your friends get to shop and then if they spend enough, your purchases could be free! I suppose that's a great incentive to host a party, but how do you know what company to choose? There are SO many! And it won't do to host a party for a company you don't like!

When I look back, I'm actually surprised by how many of these types of parties I've attended and how many different products I've sampled as a result. In my Google search, I discovered half a dozen home-party jewelry companies alone! There's Silpada, Lia Sophia, Azuli Skye, Bella Shaye, Guy and Eva, and Stella and Dot. In the end, I liked a lot of the jewelry I saw at the party and overall it was a fun experience. I find these parties to mostly be fun because of the people in attendance. I often reflect on my purchases a day or two later and think that I overspent- that if I'd seen those same pieces in Macy's, I probably wouldn't have bought them, but because of the atmosphere of shopping and spending, I splurged at the party. Also, you don't RSVP "Yes" to a party like that without assuming some financial contribution, right?

Have any of you attended or hosted a party like this? Are you a representative for any home party companies? Have you ever gone to a party like that and chosen NOT to buy? Do you feel the products are of a decent quality for the price you pay? How do you like shopping in that type of environment? Do you feel the companies should have all their products for sale on their website as well as through the representatives? Leave me a comment and tell me what you think!

And if you're wondering, I attended a Stella and Dot party and bought these:

Audrey Cluster Bracelet

Goa Pendant Earrings

Shoesday Tuesday: Sandals for Work

Ever since stocking up on summertime cardigans, I've decided the only thing my work wardrobe is lacking is some professional, but chic sandals for the warm spring and summer months ahead. You already know that I live my life in dresses, especially in the summer, and I really like dresses in bold prints. I think the best solution for me will be basic sandals in nude tones or neutrals. I can't spend the entire day in heels like I used to at my old job, but I'm not happy in flats every day, either. I've discovered that a 1-2 inch wedge is still comfortable enough for a long day at work, but they give me just enough added height that I feel better than I do in flats. That being said, these are the best sandal options I've been able to find:

Diba Din Go Wedge Sandal, DSW, $39.95

SM Women's Shiba Sandal, DSW, $44.95

Kelsi Dagger Tallia Wedge Sandal, DSW, $69.95

New York Transit Kings Fortune Wedge Sandal, DSW, $39.95

Jessica Simpson Guru Sandals, Nordstrom, $74.95

Adrienne Vittadini Vivian, Piperlime, $59.00

I have to admit, I'm a smidge bored by this whole search, but in the end I'll likely appreciate the effort when it's easy to get dressed in the morning. Here's how it will go: brightly printed sun dress + nude sandal + cropped cardigan + an accessory or two = a fabulous and easy work outfit for spring/summer. Given the large assortment of cardigans, dresses and accessories already in my closet, I don't think I'll end up in a rut. But time will tell... 

In the meantime, since it's Shoesday Tuesday, tweet away! Tell me what shoes you're looking forward to wearing this summer. And don't forget the hashtag: #ShoesdayTuesday

Rate My Look- Emma Pillsbury Style

Ever since I purchased my new glasses, I've been faced with the challenge of incorporating them into my outfits. While I love how fun and funky they are, that same funky-ness is what makes them a challenging wardrobe element. There is not doubt about the fact that they are a statement and a bold one at that. I've found myself struggling not so much with the major elements of my outfits as I do with the accessories. Honestly, I've hardly worn earrings since I got these glasses. Accessories are the part of creating an outfit that I find most interesting and enjoyable. Earrings are often my "go-to" accessory along with large cocktail rings. Sometimes I mix it up with a bold necklace. This week, I decided to channel Emma Pillsbury and use a chic plaid scarf tied in a prim bow to accessorize my look:

Dress: Banana Republic

Boots: Marshalls

Sweater: Old Navy

Scarf: Vintage

On this particular day, I was pretty disappointed with the temperature- it was about 37 degrees Fahrenheit that day- just a smidge too chilly for my taste at this point in the year. I'm starting to go beyond feeling sick of wearing tights. My feelings toward them currently border on hatred, but I keep reminding myself that it's not their fault I live in New England and winter sticks around until April. I have to remind myself that they've served me well for many months now and if they had feelings, they'd be just as sick of me as I am of them. I decided to finish the outfit with one of the six cardigans I bought at Old Navy not too long ago. I'm a little sick of cardigans, too, but since this one is new, I don't mind it. But tights and cardigans aren't the point today. Nope- it's all about accessorizing those glasses. In a subtle mix of prints, I've combined the florals from my glasses with the plaid on my scarf-they really complement each other nicely, don't you think? It helps that they both have a teal/blue color scheme and the prints are on the same scale. As much as I enjoy wearing my glasses, I'm looking forward to getting back into my contact lenses in a couple of weeks. I think I'll have worked my accessorizing muscle enough by then and I'll be ready to get back into earrings.

Do any of you glasses-wearing readers have similar issues with your glasses? Even if they aren't quite as bold a statement as my floral frames, do you sometimes feel as though your glasses add a challenge to creating your daily look? Leave a comment and let me know!

Tapas Blogging

Enjoy these little "bites" of fashion and style info:

@gregorvios tweeted a video as part of S...tNB's #ShoesdayTuesday tradition. Check it out here- it's fun!

Speaking of Shoesday Tuesday, I am considering featuring these super fabulous sandals this week. Or maybe just fabulous sandals in general. Considering I need to find some for work and soon, I really ought to dedicate some time to it- for the blog AND for my closet.

With spring and summer just around the corner (we hope), it's time to break out those cute warm-weather pieces that have been hanging out in the back of your closet for the last six months. And if you didn't jump on the romper bandwagon last summer, have no fear- they're back this season and cuter than ever.

If you're curious as to what else will be out there this season, check out fashionising.com's spring 2011 trend predictions. They tend to be spot on. The ones I'm looking forward to are lace clothing and 60's ladylike looks. I'm not so excited about sheer maxi dresses and crop tops.

This article on fashionista.com got me thinking, because- generally speaking- I've always really loved Target and thought they had some pretty great bags. What are your thoughts after reading? Leave a comment!

If you're anything like me, you are still faithfully watching Glee every week, despite thinking it might be time for them to jump the shark (and no, I'm not the first person to say that about this show). However, I have to admit, ever since Santana and Brittany have been kicked off the Cheerios, I've been enjoying their "street clothes" costumes.Which is why I was so happy to find Fashion of Glee, a site dedicated to finding the cool clothes the characters sport each and every week. It's great- you can browse by episode, character, even by designer and price! I love it!

I got a good laugh watching this video about the hazardous job of runway walking. I also stumbled upon this hilarious video involving a model, an ill-placed pirouette and a pool. Yes, a pool. Anyway, these videos both reminded me of one of my all time favorite episodes of Sex and the City. You know the one. Click here for that fabulous cringe-worthy moment of Carrie's.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Rate My Look- Self-Inspired Outfit

A few days ago, I was going through some photos of outfits I'd worn last year around this same time. Sometimes it will remind me of an outfit I loved and I'll pull it out from the back of the closet to revive it with a different accessory or two. Other times, I find myself feeling inspired to combine some of those older pieces into new outfits that are essentially the same idea, just executed differently- sort of a re-mix of clothing. I found this photo and I was inspired by my layering:

The low, scoop neckline of the dress allowed for a brightly printed, high-neck blouse. Using very similar pieces in my closet, I created this outfit inspired by the one pictured above: 

The dress is actually the exact same dress, only in a bright red jersey instead of black. The blouse is a sheer, tie-neck polka-dot top that's also super comfortable. In the end, I think I was pretty successful in inspiring myself. I created an entirely new outfit without purchasing a single new item. (And in case you're wondering, yes that is snow blowing across the picture. Snow in spring. Yuck.) 

Take a moment to re-visit outfits you've worn in the past and see if there are any new combinations you can come up with. You might surprise yourself. 

Rate My Look- Caped Crusader

It may officially be spring, but we've had snow and temperatures in the 30's and low 40's all week. Yuck. I'm trying to work my wardrobe in such a way that I have liberating moments heralding the coming of spring while also being warm and covered enough so as not to freeze off my boodandi*.

Today, I stayed warm with a wool cape over my outfit:

Cape: Target

Sweater: Marshalls

Skirt: Anthropologie

Shoes: Deb Shops

Necklace: Etsy

I looked at this photo afterwards and though, "Damn, girl- you look adorable!" My boss just got back from a trip to London and when she saw this outfit she said, "You look like you could be walking the streets of London right now!" Pip-pip, cheerio, ladies and gents! My self esteem is feeling pretty great right about now. The cape totally works with the short hemline and straight skirt silhouette. But I know what you're thinking, "Let me see the rest of the outfit, Renee!" And so I happily oblige: 

How much are you digging my mustard & plum combination? Not exactly a combination I'd want to see at lunchtime, but visually I think it's a real winner! (And not like Charlie Sheen #winning. Better. Much better.) The skirt is turning out to be a great addition to my wardrobe- I think it's going to transition through spring quite nicely. I can see it with some other silk blouses in my collection as well as some more casual cotton options. Thank you, Anthro- you really did me a solid on that one. 

On a side note, I have to say I'm a huge fan of the cape. It's like wearing a (very stylish) blanket. It's warm and cozy and much more comfortable to drive in than a jacket or coat. Have you ever worn a cape? I recommend you give it a whirl. Plus, don't you think it's such a fun look on top of being super comfy and warm? I do! Go ahead and leave me a comment telling me what you think about capes in general- and not the superhero kind. 

Have a great day, everyone! 

*Thank you, Shawna for introducing me to the awesome word "boodandi." It is now part of my every day vocabulary.

Rate Mel's Look!

Last Saturday, I met up with my fabulous friend Mel for dinner and catching up. I came straight from work and since it was Saturday, that meant I had a black outfit on. It was pretty ho-hum, so I'm not even going to waste your time with a picture. Let's just say, I've done black better before. Anyway, despite my lack of great style that day, Mel brought it in spades:

Check out those fabulous chocolate brown boots- aren't they great? I also love her adorable skirt and sweater combo- she seems to enjoy the monochromatic look, too. And if you look closely, you'll see she's wearing the necklace from my giveaway post a couple of months ago.

I mean, honestly- could she be any more adorable? I love it when my friends are willing to let me post their photos on the blog. I'm sure my readers get sick of seeing only my outfits, so it's nice to have a bit of variety. 

Thanks, Mel! 

What Are Your Thoughts on Multiples?

No, I'm not talking about having twin or triplets or anything like that. I'm curious as to what you guys think about purchasing multiple items in different colors for your wardrobe? The other day I went shopping- I was on a quest for some cute, light-weight cardigans to wear to work. At Old Navy, I found the perfect cropped cardigan:

Buy it yourself here. 

I have all sorts of dresses that I plan to wear this spring and summer, but I wanted a light-weight and flattering top layer to incorporate into the outfits. If you remember, many of the dresses I own are in bright prints, so I was hoping for some solid-color, neutral cardigans. I had no intention of purchasing six of the same cardigan in different colors, but that is exactly what happened:

As you can see, I ended up with Heather Oatmeal, Fuchsia, Aqualicious, Black Jack, Graphite Heather, and Bright White. I truly believe I will utilize all six of these sweaters over the next six months, but I'm curious- do you ever do this type of thing? Do you purchase more than one color of the item you like? I tend to do it with basic items like these cardigans or with a basic neutral skirt or top. I even have three of the same jersey dress that I bought one summer. Sometimes the purchase is all at once, as with these Old Navy cardigans. Other times, I purchase one, wear it and love it even more than I thought I would, so I go back a week or so later and get another (or three). Since they get plenty of wear, I don't view this as a bad thing, but I am curious about how many other people out there do the same thing. Or am I all alone on this one? And before you pass judgement on my six new cardigans, consider this: they were marked down to $16.50 each in the store, but I had an additional "Friends & Family" coupon from a friend that got me an additional 30% off my total purchase. The total price for the cardigans was only $69. Honestly, I've spent that much on a single cardigan before. It was cashmere, but still. 

So do me a favor and leave a comment telling me if you think I'm bonkers or a genius, or anything in between. I'd love to hear what you all think of purchasing multiples for your wardrobe. Happy Monday! 

Shoesday Tuesday- Springtime Shoes for Work

As warm weather quickly approaches (Sunday was the first day of spring, after all), I'm starting to think about what shoes will be appropriate and comfortable for work. I've asked around and there aren't any rules against sandals or even flip-flops (provided they're "nice" flip-flops), but I know I'll need more than just sandals to get me through. I have a decent collection of flat oxfords that will be nice for warm weather as well as a handful of ballet flats, although most of them are black or brown. Maybe a few neutral ballet flats like these could be a nice addition to my work shoe collection:

Audrey Jersey Knot Ballet Flat, Payless, $19.99 

Cargo Nailhead Flat, Payless, $19.99 

Fig Flower Flat, Payless, $26.99

Feebe Bow Flat, Payless, $22.99 

Since I'm not a huge fan of the gladiator sandal, I'll either need to find ones that are a little more feminine and work with my wardrobe, or I'll need to make sure I have a few of those "nice" flip-flops on hand for the really hot days this summer. 

Magnolia Flower Embellished Sandal, Payless, $22.99 

Patricia Mid-Wedge Flip-Flops, Payless, $19.99 

I've been quite impressed with Payless in the last year or so- they have really come around and created some stylish shoes for bargain prices. Of course, partnering up with Christian Siriano didn't hurt, either. But in all fairness, they truly do have some cute shoe options these days. They may not be the highest quality shoes that will be in your closet for years to come, but at the price you're paying, even if you get 6-8 months out of them, or even just a season, they're still worth the price. 

Some of my favorites currently available at Payless: 

Kutie Knot Platform Pump, $26.99

Tweed Galilea Bow Peep Toe Pump, $44.99

Lyric Lace-Up Shootie, $34.99

What shoes are you looking forward to wearing this spring? Instead of leaving a comment, tell me in a tweet with the hashtag #ShoesdayTuesday and let's see how many tweets we can get with that hashtag! How about 7? Not a very lofty goal, right? But if you need an excuse to help get there, how about if I tell you this is my 700th post since starting this blog? 700!!! Doesn't that seem like an awful lot? It does to me! I feel like I deserve a prize or something! Or maybe just some shoe-related tweets from my readers? It's not too much to ask, right? Right!

Rate My Look- Sunday Best (Yesterday)

Often when I get dressed on Sunday morning, I'm not only taking into consideration the fact that my outfit needs to seamlessly transition from church to work, but also that it's the day after Saturday when I'm required to wear all black. Sometimes I spend more time in my closet, just trying to avoid wearing black. This Sunday I think I was pretty successful in avoiding the color while still looking chic:

Skirt: Second Time Around

Blouse: TJ Maxx

Shoes: Payless

I wish I'd taken the time to get a good shot of my hair- it really cooperated with me this morning and the half-up/half-down look was very soft and elegant looking, which it NEVER is on me. My hair rarely cooperates and I usually end up letting it do what it wants. I'd much rather be able to style it in a way that always complements my outfit, but it doesn't often work out that way. On the rare occasions that it does, I really ought to put more effort into documenting it- if only to remind myself that sometimes there is hope.

As for the outfit itself, I actually bought this top in two colors- grey and cream. The price couldn't be beat especially considering it's far from a basic "basic." The neckline is interesting and asymmetrical, the fabric is soft, sheer and feminine and it's also a very comfortable blouse to wear. It really can't be beat, if you ask me! You haven't seen the skirt before on the blog- I purchased it on consignment at Second Time Around and although I've worn it a few times, I never snapped a photo of any of the outfits. Which is strange, really, because the skirt is awesome. It has red buttons on the front a la sailor-style pants. And I love me some sailor-style pants (and skirts)! I've worn it with black blouses mostly, so it was a nice change to pair it with the grey instead. Overall, I think this outfit is a nice twist on a classic look.

Accessories Anonymous: Straw Hats for Spring

It's the FIRST DAY OF SPRING!!! I don't know about all of you, but I'm feeling the spring fever pretty bad this year. Maybe it's because it's my first New England winter to survive in four years and I'd forgotten how harsh they can be, or maybe it's just that I'm beyond ready for my first pedicure of the season, but the point is this: the temperature will soon be rising and I can't wait for my wardrobe to reflect that.

I have very fair skin, so if I plan to be outdoors for any length of time in the spring or summer, I not only need some type of SPF on my skin, I also need some protective covering- literally. I have started wearing hats more in the warmer weather as a way of protecting my skin. And I've realized that there isn't much better than a light-weight, but stylish straw hat. Whether it's a trilby style or wide-brim, I find they are comfortable, stylish and neutral enough that they work well with many different outfits.

Straw Hats by Rtboo featuring a fedora hat

Try pairing a floppy, wide-brim hat with a cute, floral sundress and oversize sunglasses. Or a fedora with linen trousers, a structured top and some aviators. Or even a prim skirt and blouse with a cute straw cloche. Having trouble visualizing it? Lucky for you, I've done the work creating these outfits:

Straw Hat Outfits by Rtboo featuring sleeveless tops

Try to have fun with it when you're putting these outfits together- something unexpected like a straw hat might just transform an outfit into springtime perfection.

New Etsy Item

Last night I finally finished working on a dress that I started sewing about 2 months ago. All I had left to do was to sew on the lace waistband, install the zipper, serge the inside seams and hem it- about an hours worth of work in total. Why I procrastinated so long, I really can't tell you, but the good news is that it's finished and in the Etsy shop for whomever would like it!

The dress itself is made of a cream-colored cotton sateen/spandex blend. Don't be scared by the word "spandex," though. It's actually in a lot of clothes you wear and you probably don't even realize it. Most jeans these days come with a touch of spandex in the mix. We're talking about 98% cotton, 2% spandex, just enough to give the fabric the tiniest bit of stretch. Ultimately, it just makes the garment a smidge more comfortable since it stretches as your body moves. 

I decided I didn't want to make just a simple cream dress, so I added the gorgeous black trim. It's a lovely crochet lace with a satin ribbon. I found both the trim and the fabric at Mood when I was there in December. How shameful that it's taken nearly 3 months to finish such a simple dress! But I digress... where was I? Oh, yes, the trim is just gorgeous. For details on sizing and whatnot, visit the listing in my Etsy shop by clicking here. You'll notice that a lot of items have been removed from my shop. I decided to take out most of the "custom" items and just start stocking the store with actual items that can be bought as is. However, if you are interested in something custom, the option is still there, just email me at reneetbouchard at gmail dot com and we'll chat!

I Need More Jenny Packham In My Life

One of the most obvious perks of my new job is the fact that I get to see and touch some incredibly beautiful, often over-the-top-gorgeous gowns on a daily basis. Designs by Monique L'Huillier, Kenneth Pool, Sassi Holford and others are hanging amongst the collection of samples at Madeleine's Daughter. But it doesn't end there. Just about every month for the first half of the year, the shop hosts a trunk show with a different bridal gown designer. This month is Jenny Packham. You may think you're not familiar with her work, but the truth is that her designs adorn many a red carpet celebrity including:

Miley Cyrus

Sandra Bullock

Eva Longoria Parker

Ashley Tisdale

Jayma Mays

Jenny Packham's designs are ultra-feminine and stunningly beautiful, but what these pictures can never convey is the quality of the materials used. I've touched some of these gowns and I can say first hand that they are light as air and silky soft. My favorites are the ones that channel that "old Hollywood" vibe and not in a cliche sense, but in a truly timeless, elegant, stunning way. Slinky silk charmueses, ethereal chiffons and beadwork that sparkles like the top of the Chrysler building are each signature elements of these designs and it's so exciting to see them up close and in person. Pictures, even runway videos will never do them justice. But even so, I still encourage you to click on over to the official Jenny Packham site and view not only the bridal collections, but the ready-to-wear as well. 

And if you're wondering which gown that is currently in our shop is my favorite? It's this one: 

"Ceres"

Rate My Look- New Etsy Necklace Purchase

I was SO excited to put an outfit together sans tights this week. I wore it on Monday when the temperature was just starting to creep upwards. I kept boots in the mix, but it still felt liberating. I'm very fortunate to have such a large assortment of separates to mix together and create outfits with and it's a fun part of getting ready in the morning. There is, however, a new piece I'm wearing in this outfit- my necklace. 

A couple of weeks ago, BBBellezza had a sale in her Etsy shop and I used the opportunity to score one of her necklaces made out of vintage keys. There's something romantic about the keys- the patina on the metal that I know isn't artificially manufactured, and in the case of this particular necklace- the scrap of lace that complements the old metal pieces- the key and the escutcheon (keyhole cover). Here's a closer look at the necklace: 

I like how the necklace works with the sweater, too- the lace-y knit pattern on the top half of the sweater is also quite romantic and works well with the slim pencil skirt and tall suede boots. Lately, I've found myself keeping my outfits fairly neutral because of my new glasses. They are so bold and colorful, I find myself avoiding big earrings and clothing that might clash with them, but the key necklace and neutral outfit worked out perfectly and still look interesting and put-together.

St. Patrick's Day Fashion

On a day where so many proudly wear obnoxious green outfits, I'm here to tell you that you can dress in the spirit of St. Patrick's Day without looking like a fool. Last year, I incorporated all the colors of Ireland- green, orange and white, into a fun spring outfit. You can do that, or stick with just green, but regardless, try to do it in a stylish way that  maintains the spirit of the day, but also keeps you looking chic. 

Gardens of Versailles Dress, Modcloth, $119.99

Clover Cadence Dress, Modcloth, $57.99

BCBGMaxAzria Print Top, 6PM, $58

Cooking Show Top, Modcloth, $39.99 

Organic Zip-Front Jacket, Fair Indigo, $44.95

Cuff Bracelet, Etsy, $15

Orange Flower Cuff, Etsy, $8

Handmade Chrysoprase Teardrop Necklace, Etsy, $110 

I didn't forget the men, either: 

Poplin Shirt, Old Navy, $20 

Chill Cap, Life is Good, $20 

Of course, the choices for women are a lot more varied than for men. I love simple green and white printed clothes- they look so bright and summer-y. Of course, St. Patrick's Day in New England this year will likely be in the 40-degree range, maybe as high as 50 if we're lucky, but I'm skeptical. The point is, I just might need a bright green print to keep the winter doldrums away! What about you? How did you dress on this St. Patrick's Day? 

Online Shop Review: ASOS

A friend and coworker hosted a fabulous holiday party this past December and she wore the most fabulous dress- a dress I envied quite a bit. She looked so amazing- it was a truly unique LBD. Months later, I asked her where she got it and she excitedly told me about ASOS- an online store for all types of fashions- clothes, accessories, shoes, etc. She was excited to tell me about it because she had noticed a day or two before that her dress had been heavily marked down. I was so excited at the possibility of not only getting that dress for myself, but getting it at a bargain to boot! Minutes later, I'd registered with the site, added the dress to my shopping cart and checked out. I was so excited to know that dress would be on its way to my house in a matter of days. Check out how cute it is:

It also came in red: 

Honestly, I die for this dress in either color, but the red happened to be available in my size, so that's what I ordered. A few days later, I came home from work to find a package waiting for me. I ripped it open, only to find they'd sent the wrong dress entirely. It wasn't even the same brand, color or size. In fact, they sent a dress about 6 sizes bigger than what I'd ordered. Honestly, the fact that it was a dress was about the only thing it had in common with the dress I'd ordered. Disappointed and dejected, I went to bed. 

The next day, I woke up and researched the ASOS return method for when you receive the wrong item. Apparently, they have an email address "wrong@asos.com" for just this type of situation. I found that a bit odd. I emailed my predicament, hoping they'd simply switched my order with someone else's and that it could be resolved. Unfortunately, all I ever got were automated form-emails explaining the return process and offering me 10% off a future purchase in the next couple of weeks. The thing is, I know it may seem like an isolated incident to you, but the entire situation felt very contrived to me. Because my dress had "sold out" in the meantime, there's no possibility of exchanging the wrong dress for the right one. Explain that one. 

Basically, even with online companies, I expect the highest level of customer service, particularly when something has gone wrong. I've never felt less taken care of than I did with ASOS. And as for my friend who recommended the site? Well, it turns out she's had similar problems with the company, too- they sent her a leather bomber jacket when she'd ordered a trench coat. And then gave her a hard time about returning it. So while she may have gotten a fabulous dress from them a few months ago, their performance is far from stellar for her as well. 

Have any of you tried this company? Have you had good or bad experiences with them? I'm curious to hear what your experiences have been (if any). In the meantime, I suppose I'll have to make do with the other red party dresses in my closet.