Thank you all so much for your well wishes! We're still taking everything day by day, but I have updates at the end of the post.
I don't want to write too many random things on the new CaaStle rentals, so now I can tell you about my trip to the RTR sample sale in Tyson's Corner. Since I attended two different RTR sample sales back when I lived in NYC, I was skeptical of a local one because my experiences back then weren't good, but I was pleasantly surprised.
The sale ran from September 1-25, and I went on the last day on my way to a hair appointment in Georgetown and only wish I allowed myself more time to shop. All the items were extra 50% off that day, and I found so many pieces I rented for under $100, I could've done some serious bank account damage.
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The pop-up shop was tidy and easy to navigate. They had tops, dresses, bottoms, handbags, coats, and accessories, and rows were color-coordinated and separated by size and category. With only 25 minutes to spare, I tore through the racks and found many pieces I rented and loved. Some were a bit damaged, but many times, I found the same piece in better shape for a few more dollars.
After stumbling upon three Paco Rabanne dresses from my past, I hunted for the short paisley dress (last photo) I wore to my friend's birthday party in January and struck gold! Not only was it in excellent shape, but I paid $65! Had I more time, I would've seriously damaged my wallet so it's a good thing I was on a tight schedule. I got the dress and made it to my appointment in Georgetown with two minutes to spare.
Now for the moment of truth... was it worth it? YES! I will absolutely go back next time but wait until the final two days when they slash prices. Most pieces were under $100 with the extra 50% off. And if it's damaged and heavily discounted, you can always take it to a tailor for repairs but make sure the retail price justifies it. If a dress retails for $295 and costs you $85 to repair, it may not be worth it.
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 $81,750 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 Mikael Aghal, Sachin & Babi, Michael Stars, Equipment, Natori, and Reiss were fresh from the dry cleaner and neatly folded. Forgot to take pics of a few items.
THE GOODS
Mikael Aghal Floral Print Ruffled Shirt Dress, Retail Value $795, Armoire $326
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About the Designer: The Mikael Aghal Collection is designed by a collaborative, creative team based in New York City. Focused on a vision for our core customer, the brand is dedicated to helping women look and feel great in their day to day lives as well as all those important moments and special events.Since 2007, Mikael Aghal has established a loyal following and continues to evolve by answering the needs of our customers. Feminine and sophisticated details are anchored in hallmark heritage prints, creating a consistent aesthetic that inspires and delights. Quality workmanship and designer finishes are foundational elements for each and every style. The collection offers a variety of sleeves and skirt lengths for women who feel overlooked by what is available in the market, ensuring they feel comfortable and confident at any time of day or night.
Why I rented it: Seemed like a great work dress.
How I styled it: While this dress is great for work, it was a bit too much. I paired it with Coach Over-the-Knee Boots, a shearling vest, and the Saint Laurent Sac de Jour Tote. Could also be worn with flats, a cropped leather jacket, a trench, and just about anything else.
Size and fit: A beautiful floral print and ruffled trim lends lots of frill to this paneled shirtdress featuring a spread collar, long sleeves with ruffled cuffs, button-front closure, self-tie waist, and ruffled hem.
I ordered a 6 and while reviews said it runs small, I found the dress to be slightly oversized.
Condition: Great.
Honest review: The design was a little off, and the print was too busy. I think the dress is pretty, but it's got a lot going on and it felt like it should be more structured to keep all the details in place. It's flimsy.
Sachin & Babi Arden Cutout Silk-Blend Jumpsuit, Retail Value $495, Armoire $297
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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: It was brand new and in my favorite hue!
How I styled it: While this jumpsuit is a statement piece on its own, I pair it with Rocksbox Redefined Aspen necklace and earrings, a Gucci Studded Leather Jacket, a vintage Etsy belt, a vintage Chanel Bag, and Charlotte Olympia Pumps.
Size and fit: I got a 6 and while it was a bit oversized in the bodice, it fit great elsewhere. I ended up double-side-taping it to my bra. Crafted in a linen and silk blend, this cutout design scored lots of compliments. Featuring a plunging V-neck, spaghetti straps, waist cutout, smocked back, concealed back-zip closure, and flared pants, this lightweight one-piece is perfect for a night out on the town.
Condition: New with tags.
Honest review: Love the color and design, but the top was a bit oversized and really needed some double-sided tape.
Michael Stars Coco One Shoulder Body Con Dress, Retail Value $118, Armoire $88
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About the Designer: What began as a collection of our iconic one-size graphic tees has grown into a wide assortment of timeless and high-quality apparel meant to endure and be passed on to the next generation. As a purpose-driven brand, we’ve been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to support grassroots organizations in our local community and beyond through the Michael Stars Foundation. Our philanthropy focuses on equality across gender, race, and socioeconomic class. We also produce over 70% of our garments locally in LA to ensure quality production and fair wages, as well as a smaller carbon footprint. More than just being our home base, that west coast effortlessness is a vibrant celebration of our California roots.
Why I rented it: Because it's Barbie pink!
How I styled it: Not sure what I was thinking when I created this look for the photos, but I wore it with a cropped marbled metallic leather jacket, Hermes Clic-Clac Bracelet, Kat Maconie Sock Boots, and the Chanel 19.
Size and fit: Crafted in a cotton and modal blend with a hint of stretch, this affordable Michael Stars dress was a surprise and delight. Ribbed and totally cozy, this one-shoulder bodycon dress has a slanted neckline, a gently ruched bodice, and a side vent. I got a medium and it was a perfect fit! The side ruching conceals any potential belly concerns so you may not even realize it's unlined.
Condition: Brand new with tags.
Honest review: Loved it so much, I considered buying it, but then I found it on the Michael Stars site for half price and brand new too.
Equipment Arles Silk Satin Dress, Retail Value $430, Armoire $301
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About the Designer: Since 1976 from its founding maison in Paris, Equipment has fused unparalleled French sophistication with an air of chic nonchalance. Equipment today calls upon the classic minimalism of the original collections through the use of noble fibers in its pure design yet signifies modernity with its discreet sexiness and androgynous silhouettes.
Why I rented it: I've rented the same dress in other colors and loved it so much, I had to try this color too!
How I styled it: I also wore it with the same leather jacket, the Rocksbox set, Charlotte Olympia Pumps, and the Prada Bunny Clutch.
Size and fit: One review said it ran a little small up top, so I ordered the 8 and it was perfect. While it was a little loose around the bodice, the hip area is a bit fitted and it twists a little.
This pullover dress features adjustable spaghetti straps, a deep v-neckline, and a side-slit hem.
Condition: Great.
Honest review: Love this dress, but I found it online for way less and brand new. No purchase this time!
Natori Zebra Print One-Shoulder Balloon Sleeve Top, Retail Value $370, Armoire $222
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About the Designer: The House of Natori was founded in 1977 by Josie Natori, CEO and Chief Creative Officer. What began with creating lingerie on her living room floor truly has evolved into a lifestyle. “Natori is a total concept, a way of life,” says Josie. She started the company from scratch, leaving a prestigious position on Wall Street, where she was the first female Vice President of Investment Banking at Merrill Lynch. Four decades later, Natori is one of the fashion industry’s most recognizable designer brands. The Natori company is proud to have remained a family business. Josie’s son Ken left Wall Street to join the company in 2007, and now serves as President.
In addition to the New York headquarters, The Natori Company also operates a warehouse in Carlstadt, NJ. A sister company, FFI operates a factory in the Philippines where most of the collections are manufactured.
Why I rented it: My closet is REALLY lacking tops and this one caught my eye.
How I styled it: I wore it to the office with a midi-length leather skirt, and Carolina Herrera Ruffle Flats, and I carried the Givenchy Nightengale Bag. I also tried it out with RtA Brand Leather Pants, a B-Low the Belt Belt, a Hermes Clic-Clac Bracelet, Aquazurra Point-Toed Flats, and the Chanel 19.
Size and fit: The reviews said it ran large and the size 6 was quite boxy and oversized. This zebra-print top is crafted in a one-shoulder design with an asymmetrical neckline, single balloon sleeve, and concealed side-zip closure.
Condition: Brand new with tags.
Honest review: Liked it so much, I'd rent it again in a size 4!
Reiss Martha Open Back Midi Dress, Retail Value $256, Armoire $192
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About the Designer: Launched in 1971, REISS opened in Bishopsgate, London selling men's tailoring. In 1997, they hired an in-house design team, and in 1998 they opened stores across the UK and Ireland. From there they launched womenswear, opened international stores, personal tailoring and shopping services, and a childrenswear division.
Why I rented it: Thought I could wear it to work.
How I styled it: No styling necessary because I didn't wear it, and I couldn't take pics of it because Mr. HGL soiled the dress.
Size and fit: I got a 6 (Armoire suggested an 8 and I should've listened) and it was a bit snug, and the fabric was quite unforgiving... after all, it's crafted in viscose and spandex, so that may explain why. It features a fold-over mock neck with back button closure, an open back with single tie closure, long sleeves, a back zipper, and a side vent. It's unlined and could really use a lining because the fabric (while heavy) is unforgiving.
Condition: Brand new with tags.
Honest review: As much as I admire Reiss from afar (or on Kate Middleton), I think most of their pieces are made of a cheap fabric and have a weird fit.
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 kept the majority of this shipment much longer than I should've. I got a lot of wear out of the Sachin + Babi Jumpsuit, Equipment Dress, and the Natori Top.
- 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 is still with us, but we have an appointment on October 24th to decide next steps. Pasteurella is difficult to cure because certain strains are antibiotic-resistant and it's a lifelong illness that gets worse with age.
So, what is Pasteurella?
Pasteurella is a type of bacteria that can cause a disease known as "pasteurellosis" or "snuffles" in rabbits. Pasteurella multocida can affect the respiratory system of rabbits, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge, runny eyes, and respiratory distress. It can also lead to more severe health issues, such as pneumonia, abscesses in various parts of the body, and even systemic infections if left untreated.
Snuffles is a contagious disease, and affected rabbits can spread the infection to other rabbits through close contact or contaminated bedding and equipment. Pasteurella is a common concern in rabbit populations, particularly in pet rabbits and those kept in crowded or stressful environments.
Treatment for pasteurellosis typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian. However, it can be challenging to completely eliminate the bacteria, and some rabbits may become carriers of Pasteurella even after treatment.
Mr. HGL was prescribed nearly a dozen meds like Doxycycline, Enrofloxacin, Meloxicam, Penicillin injections, and Gentamicin and Acetylcysteine for the nebulizer. Plus, separate medications for gut health and nose drops. I've had him in the nebulizer 2-3 times a day for about 15 minutes each, and administered medications about 3 times a day. Yep, I haven't had much of a life in the past month.
I gave him Penicillin shots for about 3 weeks, but suddenly the skin between his shoulder blades became too tough and bruised, and he whimpers, so I stopped them on Wednesday. Honestly, it wasn't helping at all, and even the vet agreed. I'm also feeding him with Critical Care, but he wiggles away (and it ends up on the ceiling). He is eating pellets, one by one when I feed him by hand. I've also been syringe-feeding him water, and he's eating lots of lettuce and treats because it makes him feel better.
Oh, wait...I just got an update. The vet called to say his culture came back negative for a bacterial infection and positive for fungal. Sooooo, I was told to stop all medication immediately... we're treating the wrong thing! Almost $4K later, maybe we'll get it right this time (enter woozy face emoji here). So glad I stopped the shots!
Well, I was planning on saying goodbye on the 24th, but it looks like we're buying more time. In the meantime, here are some pics of what we've been through. That's Critical Care on the ceiling in the final pic. He did not end up with explosive diarrhea. And he is so fancy, he got a dozen white roses.
At this point, Mr. HGL might outlive me due to my panic attacks and mental breakdowns. Geez!
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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 $81,750!
What are your thoughts about Armoire and rentals in general? Let me know what you think down below!
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