I recently decided to try Stitch Fix. Several of my clients also use Stitch Fix and I’ve been curious about them for some time. For those unfamiliar with the company, the basic operation is as follows:
- fill out an online profile here (sizing, color preferences, spend preferences, etc.)
- pay a $20 non-refundable styling fee which can be applied to any purchase you make from your selected items
- wait 7-10 days and receive your box with 5 curated items
- take up to 3 business days to try everything
- keep what you want, fill out the online checkout and send the rest back in a pre-paid envelope
So…what did I get?
My Fix is pictured above and I was very pleasantly surprised with both the items chosen and the overall fit of each piece. As you can see, the box contained a grey and black dress, a pair of olive skinnies, a black faux leather top, a turquoise dolman sleeve sweater and a pair of leopard ballet flats. All but the shoes came with styling cards, shown below.
Leopard ballet flats have been on my to-buy list for a while. This pair is by Yosi Samra, a familiar label that I use with clients. They sent a half-size up from my stated shoe size and the fit was excellent. KEEP
The Faux Leather Top was very similar in cut to one that I had been eyeing during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. This top was a fraction the cost – important as this will likely be an occasional piece for me. It has a knit back which helps with fit and comfort. That particular jacket on the left look of the style card throws me off but in general I like both styling suggestions. KEEP
Am a very big fan of olive/black and olive/navy combos. It’s also a trending color this fall. Like the shoes, these have been something on my to-buy list. Had originally been thinking of cargos but, hey, these showed up and fit well, despite being a size down from what I stated online! Guess they know their product. Will likely work them into this look by replacing the denim and swapping the shoes for black booties. KEEP
The turquoise dolman sleeve was the surprise hit of the group! Love the color but never in my life have considered wearing a deep dolman sleeve. Maybe living in NE Ohio it’s because dolman’s are so hard to wear with coats. But I loved it. It’s a light/mid-weight perfect for late spring/summer/early fall with no coat necessary. Don’t love the style card suggestions for this – the jackets won’t go over this deep sleeved top well. My plan is to pair it with skinnies (white or denim) or with the denim pencil skirt from this post. KEEP
Last but not least, was the striped knit dress. This piece is most similar to the type of stuff I already have in my closet and I was on the fence about whether or not to keep it but with the 25% discount for purchasing all five items it was essentially free. Had to go up a size (very easy exchange process) but have worn it twice already and can see it going into fall very nicely with a thick cardigan and tights or a slouchy turtleneck pulled over it and booties. Not at all into the styling on the left of the card and would swap out the necklace on the right for something edgier. KEEP
Stitch Fix Pros:
- Easy to use.
- Great communication from company regarding where I was in the process and quick package turnaround time.
- Low/price or free as long as you purchase something worth $20+.
- Added 25% discount if you purchase all five of your items.
- Easy and quick online exchange process.
- Can request just one “fix” or sign up for regular deliveries at monthly or quarterly intervals.
Stitch Fix Cons:
- The online profile form tends to pigeon-hole people into pre-defined looks, making additional text or in-depth Pinterest links more important to giving the stylist an overall feel for your style.
- The stylist seems to change each time (based on feedback from client users). One on one relationships are very important in styling and success comes easier once a stylist knows you, your lifestyle and can take inventory of items currently in your wardrobe.
- Limited styling options. The two looks on the card are great for initial inspiration but an ongoing relationship with a stylist can provide looks that incorporate items you already own or can lead to suggestions for other purchases that may augment several of the pieces in a Fix.
Stitch Fix Summary:
I was very pleased with the items chosen for me and felt like the whole experience was a lot of fun! A great option for people who might not be ready to commit to a dedicated personal stylist’s fees or for those that really know and are happy with their style but just in a bit of a rut and need a set of fresh eyes. While I won’t use them for their regularly scheduled delivery service, I could see turning to an on-demand fix the next time I need a little lift. As a girlfriend said “it’s like someone sending you a birthday present except that you’re paying for it”!
