Hoppy Friday! I started to receive items from the new rental companies, so I figured we could review the Armoire items I just sent back. Armoire really does give you a revolving wardrobe... as soon as I'm finished with a few pieces, I'll quickly review them in the app, send them back, and then just a few days later I have a totally new shipment. This business model really does allow you to get the most bang for your buck, as long as you're interested in trying the available pieces. You can also speed up the shipment and have it delivered overnight for an extra fee.
OK, time for honest feedback. I feel like this column is getting a little too predictable and maybe slightly mundane. So, as I get ready to kick off a new season with new clothing rental companies, tell me, what are some things you'd like to see covered or what would make it more interesting? I know I need to get more pics out in the wild, and I will commit to this, but what's missing? You won't hurt my feelings!
WHAT I’M WEARING THIS WEEK: Armoire
Welcome back to What I'm Wearing This Week: Armoire. For the newbies, every Friday on WIWTW I'll recap the clothing rentals I wore for the week. I’ll take you on a trip through my life, where I’m going, what’s missing in my closet, my current obsessions, what I’m excited to try, and maybe even buy. We’ll explore designers and trends, and a variety of styles and brands. And each week I’ll fill you in on why I chose each item, the total value of the rental compared to the retail price (as of today I've rented $78,851 worth of clothing), and more.
Armoire, which is a clothing rental company for women, is all about female empowerment. From the hand-selected and curated inventory of styles that are designed by the Boss Lady, for the Boss Lady, to their involvement with female-powered brands, and their partnership with Dress for Success Seattle, they’re a brand built for today’s woman.
This is a review of the Unlimited Plan for $249/month.
ACTIVE DEAL: Get $30 OFF 1 month of the 7-item plan OR 50% OFF 1 month of the unlimited plan.
CODE: 7MSA89 or MSAUNLIMITED50
This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out the editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes.)
WHAT I RECEIVED
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All six items by Black Halo, Sachin & Babi, Cynthia Rowley, and Cushnie were fresh from the dry cleaner and neatly folded. I was preoccupied and forgot to take pics on my mannequin. Is it better to see it on the model? LMK.
THE GOODS
Black Halo Sleeveless Sheath Dress, Retail Value $196, Armoire $94
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About the Designer: Black Halo Founder and Creative Director, Laurel Berman, has transformed the way women dress today with the iconic Jackie O dress; known for its versatility and ability to enhance a woman’s figure, it laid the foundation for the brand’s success as a leader in the contemporary dress market. Laurel's architectural designs summon a natural inner beauty and confidence that are both liberating and empowering.
In 2012, the brand debuted a cocktail and evening wear collection, Black Halo EVE by Laurel Berman, broadening its appeal to existing clientele while reaching a new audience. The brand has grown to include jumpsuits, two-piece dressing, and separates.
Why I rented it: Needed a new work dress.
How I styled it: Since I wore it to work, I paired it with the Saint Laurent Sac de Jour Bag, Tabitha Simmons Laser-Cut Pumps, and the Gucci Studded Leather Jacket.
Size and fit: Because Black Halo tends to run small, I got the size 8 and it was a smart decision! Crafted in cotton with a little stretch, this sheath dress features a sweetheart neckline, wide shoulder straps, back zip closure, defined hourglass waist, straight skirt, and back vent. It's fully lined and really well made!
Condition: Very good.
Honest review: Ended up being a great work dress with my leather jacket on top.
Sachin & Babi Haven Strapless Blouse, Retail Value $325, Armoire $211, Sachin & Babi Whitley Bow Detail Pants, Retail Value $395, Armoire $237
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About the Designer: Sachin and Babi met as students at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), where they were instant friends. The two were cut from the same cloth, bonding over their common interests, ambitions, and upbringing in India. Friendship grew into love, and soon after, a company. Together, Sachin and Babi built a design and embroidery business, working for top houses including Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, Jean-Paul Gaultier, and Manolo Blahnik, among others. Sachin and Babi were one of fashion’s best-kept secrets behind-the-scenes until they set out on their own.
Driven by a commitment to incredible craftsmanship and a desire to connect with customers, Sachin and Babi launched our brand. By owning a family-run factory in Mumbai, we are able to control the design and production process from start to finish, cutting out the middlemen. The result: extraordinary clothing and accessories with tremendous value.
As a brand, Sachin and Babi believe in celebrating every day and dressing with joy. Their collections are designed for the special moments in life, that can and do happen every day, both big and small. Attention to embellishment, color, and silhouette guides the design and is at the heart of the brand’s DNA. Inspired by the women who wear Sachin & Babi, and each season brings with it the desire to offer a uniquely beautiful, and infinitely wearable collection.
Why I rented it: I was so curious about this set!
How I styled it: When I wore it as a set, I carried the Louis Vuitton Cherry Blossoms Bag and a pair of Jimmy Choo Patent Leather Wedges. Separate I wore the pants with an Alice + Olivia Cropped Leather Top, Ferragamo Wedges, and the Saint Laurent Sac de Jour. I paired the top with leather leggings, Robert Clergerie Platform Sandals, and the Chanel 19.
Size and fit: I got a 6 in the blouse and bottom, and while the tube top was quite oversized, the pants were a little more fitted in the waist. Both items are crafted in non-stretch crepe and the blouse is strapless with a back zip closure and flowy tails, and the wide-legged pants feature a gathered waist with faux sash and stitched down bow belt, and side zip closure.
Condition: New with tags.
Honest review: The top is an odd fit and very shelf-like over the bra, and the pants aren't the easiest to wear either. While I think it could be a really cute and elegant set, the two pieces didn't go together very well on me mainly because the top is huge. I like the two as separates better.
Sachin & Babi Audra Front Pleat Midi Dress, Retail Value $695, Armoire $382
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Why I rented it: Because I was really self-conscious with the cropped set, but really loved the color and design so I ordered the same thing as a cocktail dress.
How I styled it: I wore this dress for dinner at The Wren and I got tons of compliments. I paired it with a vintage gold-tone belt, Ferragamo Gavina Sandals, and the leather jacket to stay warm.
Size and fit: Since the Sachin + Babi set ran a little small, I ended up ordering the size 8 and it was a mistake. It was too big in the bust and waist, and the crinoline underneath the skirt was bunched up from washing. Crafted in poly-faille, this ballerina-style dress features a scoop neckline, spaghetti straps, concealed back zip closure, side slash pockets, full skirt with crinoline lining, and gentle box pleats.
Condition: Like new.
Honest review: Reminiscent of the 50s, this timeless design is crafted in a lovely green hue, but I was a bit disappointed because it was too big.
Cynthia Rowley Nikki Silk Taffeta Babydoll Dress, Retail Value $465, Armoire $325
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About the Designer: Cynthia Rowley began her career in fashion while studying at the Art Institute of Chicago (where she had every intention of becoming a painter). After graduation, she took what little seed money she had and moved to NYC to start her fashion brand. Whether she’s exploring on a far-flung getaway, surfing secret spots in exotic destinations, or scuba-diving in an arctic glacier, it’s safe to say the designer is known to take risks. It’s this unparalleled sense of adventure that effortlessly translates into the spirit of the brand through a playful assortment of pretty dresses, beachy separates, and swim/surf.
Cynthia Rowley has gone on to win numerous accolades including a CFDA Award and Designer of the Year at the American Image Awards. She is also a best-selling author and has appeared on numerous television shows.
Why I rented it: I kind of love Cynthia Rowley these days and I was curious about this design.
How I styled it: I wore this dress for a day out at Bear Chase Brewery and despite being overdressed, it worked perfectly for a hot summer day in the sun. TBH we went for a hike beforehand, and this dress was really easy to slink into in the car without revealing too much to the other hikers in the parking lot.
I wore it with oversized gold-tone hoops, the Kendra Scott Maya Necklace, and Ferragamo Wedges.
Size and fit: I got a 6 and it was snug in the bodice. I had a hard time zipping it up, but once I was able to squeeze into it, I got a ton of wear! This chiffon babydoll dress features adjustable shoulder straps, square neckline, back zip closure, empire waist with ruffled trim, and a tiered skirt.
Condition: Great.
Honest review: While I didn't hike in the dress (I'm girly but not THAT bad), this silk taffeta dress can easily be dressed up or down without looking like you're going to an 80s prom. It's super lightweight so despite being black, it was quite cool in the hot sun.
Cushnie Keyhole Midi Dress, Retail Value $1,295, Armoire $427
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About the Designer: Carly Cushnie (formally Cushnie & Ochs) shares her vision for design through the bold use of fluid lines, layered textures, and contrasting proportions.
Informing everything she touches—from the runway to lifestyle and home—with a refined yet eclectic style, Cushnie has established herself as an innovative force in the fashion and design world.
Why I rented it: I wanted a sexy going-out dress in a fun color.
How I styled it: Once I was able to get into this dress, I started messing with the open-front design which desperately needed double-sided tape or a quick dart to keep it from flying open every time I moved. I wore a Victoria's Secret strapless bra, the Etsy Obi Leather Belt, and Nicholas Kirkwood Block-Heeled Sandals.
After one night out, I sent it right back because of the weird fit. I mean, the struggle was real.
Size and fit: I got a medium and it was such an odd fit. First off, it needs a zipper. Secondly, the bust area is huge. Thirdly, the waist was too small and caused the top to overspill. And finally, the hip area was so small!
This slinky, form-fitting dress is crafted in guava-hued viscose and features a crewneck with keyhole cutout, a faux wrap bodice, all over box pleats, and a midi length skirt. It is unlined and shows everything!
Condition: Great.
Honest review: The reviews said it was practically impossible to get on and take off, and they weren't kidding. I almost dislocated my shoulder and broke a rib in this design.
DID THEY DELIVER?
- What items were most helpful and versatile to own this week to ensure I got the most out of my rental and completed the look I craved? I wore the Cynthia Rowley dress the most because it's just so versatile!
- Did they meet or exceed expectations? Armoire met expectations.
- What’s the return process like? Place the items in the bag, seal it up and that's it!
FINAL THOUGHTS
Mr. HGL finished both weeks of medication, and while he is a lot better, he still has some congestion and mild breathing issues. There's a chance he may need to be on Doxycycline every day which would be expensive and tedious... we'll see how it all goes down. And thanks for your well wishes with my father. I know the road is long and winding, and it's going to be terrible to witness. I only wish there were something I could do to help. It seems he's too far gone and the medications that are currently available won't help.
Oh, and as if I don't have enough drama in my life, an ex of mine who married my ex-best friend is trying to hook up with my sister. Yes, we're going back to high school here. When I moved back from NYC, a childhood sweetheart immediately sunk his claws into me. After dating for about a year, I realized we had nothing in common besides the way past (as in childhood to high school), so I walked away. Well, apparently, I offended him, so he went after my best friend, and they got married. So, I lost her to this whole dilemma and cut her out of my life because I felt I couldn't trust her.
Now I realize he went after her to get back at me, and now he's inappropriately messaging my sister on social media (sending suggestive messages, implying that they were meant to be together, and offering her illegal drugs) and the ball is in my court. My sister is pi$$ed and considered my ex-bestie to be like a big sister, and many others are outraged as well. And to be honest, now I feel sorry for the girl and want to extend an olive branch and share that he's attempting to cheat on her with my SISTER (she's not single). Seriously, what is wrong with men?
But anyway, enough negativity. I am going to take next week off while I get sorted out with all my CaaStle rentals that just started to arrive.
CAN YOU STILL GET THIS BOX IF YOU SIGN UP TODAY? Yes, all these items are still available to rent.
ACTIVE DEAL: Get $30 OFF 1 month of the 7-item plan OR 50% OFF 1 month of the unlimited plan.
CODE: 7MSA89 or MSAUNLIMITED50
VALUE BREAKDOWN: The Unlimited membership costs $249/month and so far, I've received styles with a retail value of $78,851!
What are your thoughts about Armoire and rentals in general? Let me know what you think down below!
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