Shop the Look: My First Two Purchases for 12 in 2022
Consider this part Shop the Look post and part 12 in 2022 Challenge update. Not sure what the 12 in 2022 is? Jump over here to catch up.
Both items I’ve purchased (in February) have been on my wishlist (in some version), both are from fair-trade companies that I trust, and both are perfect for my casual, yet put together approach to style.
First, let’s talk about my first purchase, a Tradlands dress. I already mentioned it here and shared my debate on whether or not to place the order, but here’s a quick recap as well.
The item I purchased as my first 12 in 2022 item was the Tradlands Chalet Tiered Dress in Earth (sold out now) which has amazing reviews, can easily be layered for a variety of seasons, has pockets (always a win!), and I’ve seen styled beautifully by some of my online friends. I think it will be a perfect option for the summer months, but could also start wearing it now with my LEV Mockneck layered underneath or my ABLE leather jacket on top. It’d also look great with a denim jacket or a sweater layered over it.
So it meets lots of my requirements:
Fair-trade
Can be styled in a variety of ways with items I already own
Comfy enough to be worn daily - not just special occasions
Once I decided I wanted the dress for sure, I went to order and it was no longer showing on the website. Come to find out, they pulled everything off the website while prepping for their big sale. Anxiously, I waited for the sale day to launch and quickly purchased my sweet little dress. The best part? It was about $60 less than what I was originally going to be paying for it (even with a coupon!). I call that a good start to my Challenge, friends!
The dress is everything I hoped it would be. It’s such an easy to wear piece that I can see myself wearing for years to come. And the twirling you can do…next level, y’all! This is my first purchase from Tradlands, but this line from their website let me know they were my type of company: “Our goal is to create clothing that honors you, gives you confidence, creates a canvas for your personal style, and allows you to move through your day with ease — so you can focus on the things that matter most to you.”
I’ll be sure to share numerous styling ideas in the future, but for now, just know that I am very pleased with my purchase.
So on to item number two, the Bailey Classic Jacket from ABLE! What’s interesting and surprising about this purchase, is that the Bailey jacket was NOT on my wishlist. The ABLE Merly Jacket was and for a very long time, but when I went to check it out in person during ABLE’s sale, I realized it was not a good fit for me.
Here’s some images comparing the two jackets from the fitting room. The Merly Jacket has a drop shoulder that I’m just not a fan of on me. It felt a little overly casual and not one that I’d likely wear with dresses.
I already own an oversized, super casual denim jacket so I didn’t want anything that felt too similar to that.) Here’s a look at the Merly first.
Do you notice the shoulder seam? I just wasn’t loving it. (Something I do love? That “Worth More” on the mirrors.)
I honestly felt super disappointed that it wasn’t what I hoped. I mean, don’t get me wrong, it’s an awesome, super comfy, perfectly worn in denim jacket. It just wasn’t the fit I wanted. Luckily, ABLE has a few denim jackets so I decided to try one other style before leaving the store. Let’s take a look at the Bailey Classic Jacket.
See how that seam is hitting right on my shoulder? Muuuuuch better. This jacket still has a great relaxed fit, it super soft, and is large enough to layer underneath. I grabbed it in store and have worn it basically every other day since. (This replaced my too small denim jacket in a similar color way.)
I mean, look how great the two pair together. Yes and yes!
Now, I will admit having 2 purchases for the year out of only 12 is a little nerve wrecking, but based on how carefully I’ve been considering my purchases I feel like I can stay on track for the year. Fingers crossed.
Looking for more outfit inspo? My first Capsule Wardrobe E-Book is now available!
A polished, casual, neutral capsule wardrobe with fair-trade products for the busy woman that wants to look great, have less clutter and more time for the things that really matter.
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There’s also a Free Capsule Starter Guide PDF you can get by simply entering your email address on my website. Go to the Wardrobe section of my website to find it.
Affiliate Link Disclaimer: Please note that some of the items are affiliate links, meaning I’ll make a small commission on your purchase at no additional cost to you. This allows me to support my business while avoiding the old-school designer mark-up on products included in your designs or capsules. All products I recommend are selected based on quality, style, and their ability to fulfill your needs. Products are never selected based on my affiliate commission. (It’s not that profitable, y’all.) Have any questions? Just ask.