So maybe I have to wear gym clothes Monday through Friday, but on the weekends, I like to dress up a bit more. Recently, I’ve had the chance to try two new services that have helped me to up my fashion game, which is always fun for me.
The first one — Stitch Fix. The second one — Rocksbox. And these companies are both right in my neck of the woods, each with their headquarters in San Francisco. Yes!
Stitch Fix offers you a personal stylist
I had read tons of blog reviews of Stitch Fix, which calls itself “online personal stylists for women,” and was always interested to try it out for myself. Well my wonderful older brother heard from some lady friends that this was a cool service, so he gifted me a $150 credit to spend with Stitch Fix for my birthday a few months ago, without me ever even mentioning it. After Dave and I moved into our new place with more closet space, I signed up right away and have since received two “fixes,” which is what Stitch Fix calls their shipments.
This is what arrives at your door …
When one of these babies shows up, it’s awfully exciting to dig in. Shown above is a Stitch Fix box and one of the “styling sheets,” which shows you how to wear the pieces that you’ve been sent.
You don’t pick out the items yourself, in fact, Stitch Fix connects you with a personal stylist, who selects five items for you at a time, which you try on at home, then you send back what you don’t want. You can keep everything in the shipment to get a big discount applied to your entire order, and you always pay a $20 styling fee for each fix, but that fee goes toward whatever you choose to purchase.
Here’s what I received in my first “fix” with pictures taken on a no make-up, hair-in-a-bun gym-working weekday, so I’ve chopped my head off to save you from that mess …
Honestly, I would have kept every single item in this “fix,” but couldn’t justify the expense when I really don’t need any of it (I only really need gym clothes and play clothes, so the business casual jacket was not anything I’d wear these days). I ended up keeping the dark skinny jeans only.
The first shipment included the following pieces:
- Bay to Baubles Franklin Pan Flute Shape Necklace – $34
- Eight Sixty Chloe Animal Print Dress – $98
- Just Black Adorra Skinny Jean – $88 (KEPT!)
- 41Hawthorn Carson Graphic Chevron Cross-Front Blouse – $64
- Market & Spruce Torin French Terry Stripe Blazer – $72
- If I had purchased all of these items and received the 25 percent discount for doing so, the total “fix” would have been $252.
I realize now that it makes sense to buy the whole “fix,” because the discount is so significant. But of course, that’s not what I did.
Here’s a little taste of what I got in my second shipment, with photos taken on such a sunny day that shades were required …
These are three items from my second “fix”, the Beckett Graphic Print V-Neck Blouse on the left (worn with the jeans from the first “fix”) and the Rylin Pintuck Blouse and Baxley Skinny Jean on the right.
The second shipment included the following pieces:
- Cleokai Therese Shift Dress – $98 (way too big for me, so un-pictured)
- Kut From the Kloth Baxley Skinny Jean – $88
- Fate Jocie Striped Chiffon Layer Cardigan – $48 (un-pictured, because it was wrinkly and I didn’t have anything quite right to wear underneath it)
- Daniel Rainn Rylin Pintuck Detailed Silk Blouse – $78
- 41Hawthorn Beckett Graphic Print V-Neck Blouse – $48 (KEPT!)
- If I had purchased all of these items and received the 25 percent discount for doing so, the total “fix” would have been $255.
I wasn’t as happy with the second fix, because the dress sent was way too big for me and some of the stuff was too pricey. Other than that, I enjoyed the rest of the items, but couldn’t bring myself to pay nearly $80 for the black silk top, which I actually really loved. Therefore, I settled with the blue-ish blouse instead, which should be great for spring.
Overall, I’ve purchased one item from both of my fixes. I’ve liked at least something about every single piece sent to me, and using Stitch Fix has introduced me to new brands, while also giving me a chance to have the latest styles delivered right to my door.
The benefits of Stitch Fix
- Free shipping both ways
- Diversity of items, including bags, clothing, dresses and jewelry
- A stylist sends you clothing brands and pieces you may not think to try yourself
- You get a 25 percent discount and savings if you purchase the whole “fix”
- You can stop and start your service as much as you want and schedule your deliveries
- There is no membership or monthly fee, but a $20 fee each time you order a “fix”
- You receive brand new clothing items, sent with tags
- There is a detailed survey and ways to tell your stylist what you’re looking for via feedback forms and even by sharing your Pinterest board
- You receive a styling sheet, with ideas on how to wear each item
- And as of late, Stitch Fix now has maternity clothes available too
The downsides of Stitch Fix
- The items seem to be fairly expensive
- You only have three days to decide on the pieces before sending them back
- You may or may not love what is sent to you, yet still have to pay the $20 styling fee each time you receive a “fix”
Tons of fabric and pattern choices have been sent my way with two “fixes” under my belt, which is good, because although I love patterns, I tend to primarily buy myself solid colors.
I’ve enjoyed getting my fixes and will probably get a few more to decide if I want to continue or not. As of now, I don’t think my stylist quite “gets me,” but I plan to tell her a a bit more about what I want and need to make sure she sends better items more suited to my lifestyle.
If you want to have your own personal stylist and try this service out, visit Stitch Fix <– affiliate link> today to sign up. If you use that link, A Lady Goes West will get a little kick-back, which will likely be put toward carrot cake, so thanks for that!
Now, up next is another fun service, which I’ve been enjoying …
Rocksbox sends you bling to borrow or buy
The lovely folks at Rocksbox, a premium jewelry subscription company, reached out to me about trying their service for free for a few months. Being that I’m a jewelry lover and support of Bay Area companies, I agreed. Rocksbox sends you a box of three pieces of jewelry, and you can wear the jewelry as much as you like, before sending it back. If you like the pieces, you can purchase them at a discounted price. The service is a flat fee of only $19 a month for membership, in which you get full access to unlimited shipments of jewelry. That’s a great price, if you ask me, because some of the jewelry is super nice.
Here’s what it looks like when you get a Rocksbox in the mail. So many things to open!
The first shipment included the following pieces:
- House of Harlow 1960 Aztec Bangle in Black – $38
- Perry Street Abby Necklace in Black Crystal – $60
- A pair of Gorjana Taner Ear Climbers – $32
Rocksbox is quite fun to receive and open, because all of the pieces come in their own protective bags, so it was like Christmas morning getting to the actual item. You can get nearly any kind of jewelry in your box, from understated classic pieces to crazy punk pieces, and I was happy to see my first delivery had only gold contemporary items. Just like Stitch Fix and other services, you answer a bunch of style questions when you get started, so the stylists can get an idea of what to send you, and my stylist was right on target.
The benefits of Rocksbox
- Free shipping both ways
- Gives you the chance to try out jewelry styles you’re unsure of
- No limits on how many times you can wear the pieces before returning them
- Option to buy pieces you want at an insider’s rate
- A chance to wear edgy or trendy jewelry without having to purchase it forever
The downsides of Rocksbox
- As of now, I don’t really see a down-side, except some of the pieces could have been worn by others before getting to you, but they are fully sanitized
I have always had a stocked jewelry box, yet I tend to stick to the same pieces over and over again, so this service will give me a chance to branch out from my accessory routine.
Outside of the reasonable price, the best part about Rocksbox is that the website and service is really easy to use. And it only takes just a few minutes to sign up and fill out your style profile. For more details, you can see how it works here.
Loving these colors! I wore the earrings around town for lunch and shopping and the bangle bracelet out on a Saturday night. Definitely my style.
I’ve received one box so far and loved all three items. I’m a fan of statement pieces and often wear a lot of jewelry on weekend nights, so it’s been fun for me to add a few new things to my rotation. I’ll probably send all of them back after a couple more wears, and I can’t wait to see what comes in my next shipment.
Try one month free of Rocksbox
If you want to try Rocksbox, you can get one month free using the promo code: aladygoeswestxoxo. This code is good for the next 30 days, so act quickly! And the Rocksbox team will drop a few pennies in my jewelry bank if you sign up, so that’s pretty awesome too.
That’s that, folks! A fun fashion post for your day. I hope you have a fabulous day, and I’ll see you back here tomorrow for some talk about food.
*Disclaimer: I paid for my own Stitch Fix service and did not receive any items for free. However, I have received a few months free of the Rocksbox service, and all the opinions above are completely my own.
Questions of the day
Have you ever tried Stitch Fix or Rocksbox?
How would you describe your style?
Anything fun on the agenda today?
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I love that stripped jacket! So cute! I am a big fan of Stitch Fix although the fixes can be hit or miss in terms of style and fit. I’ve found working with the same stylist each time to be helpful and also being really really specific about what you want.
I have never heard of Rocksbox but it sounds cool!
Britt@MyOwnBalance recently posted…Babies at the Barre™: Stroller Barre Workout
Hi Britt! Yes, I totally understand how that would help make the fixes better. Hope you have a lovely Tuesday! 🙂
I have yet to try Stitchfix…despite the popularity, I am trying to hold out! Although that doesn’t mean I LOVE a lot of the things you posted! My shopping is already a bit out of control…so I’ll just stick to doing it in person! 😉
Never heard of RocksBox! How cool is that !
Love your blog and glad you found me, so I could find you! Looks like we have a TON in common! 🙂 Can’t wait to follow your life and adventures!
Stacy @ Sweating TulipZ recently posted…Water Walking Workouts
Hi Stacy! Yes!! Me too! So glad to be connected now! And the thrill of shopping in the store is fun, so I get that, but it’s also fun to have a box of surprises delivered too heheheh! Have a lovely Tuesday! 🙂
I still haven’t tried Stich Fix. Honestly, I love seeing everyone’s posts, but I’m a pretty cheap shopper and always look for deals. It just seems like a pretty expensive selection of clothes (not just for you, but everyone I read!).
Heather @Fit n Cookies recently posted…20 Minute Strength Tabata Workout
Hi Heather! It is, you can specify if you like cheaper clothes, so that may help. I think I chose mid-range, which may be why mine were so much. It’s good stuff though. Happy Tuesday to you!:)
I’ve thought about doing RocksBox but the last thing I need is more things that I still won’t end up wearing! But I love that bangle…
Susie @ SuzLyfe recently posted…Intention, Outcome, Irony, Reactions – When Things Go Awry
Well that’s the beauty of Rocksbox, because you can send it all back if you don’t wear it and get more stuff! 🙂 eheheh! Happy Tuesday to you Susie!
Aren’t subscription clothes and jewelry the best?? I’m working with Rocksbox too, and it’s so perfect because accessories are the one area that I have noooo time and energy to focus on!! And there is so much choice, I need help haha. Have a great day!
Jill @ Champagne for Everyday recently posted…Beauty Hacks for Travel: How to Fit Your Favorite Toiletries into a Carry On
Hi Jill, I just love the surprise of it all. For a planner and controller, it’s fun to have no idea what to expect in the deliveries! Enjoy your jewelry!! 🙂
I agree with everything you mentioned about Stitch Fix. I love a lot of their items, but some of the business casual just doesn’t do anything for me or my wardrobe needs. It’s also a bit overpriced, but totally worth the 25% discount on the entire box if you end up loving all 5 items. What a nice brother you have! 🙂
Heather @ Life In Leggings recently posted…The Struggle of Meal Planning Is Real
Hi Heather! I know, what a great gift, right? And I’m sure the fixes will get better the longer I do it, so I’m hopeful. But yes — no need for business casual these days. I mean — ZERO need. hehehe! 🙂
I’ve heard so much about Stitch fix! Such a neat idea! My style is casual and cute 😉 And when I do like to dress up, its boho-chic!
Carrie (This Fit Chick) recently posted…When You Have No Time to Workout
Hi Carrie! I love boho-chic and ever so often, wear that kind of style too. Stitch Fix is definitely cool. I love having surprises in a box delivered to me! Hope you have a lovely Tuesday! 🙂
I do like SF but it can be frustrating when you pay $20 for a fix and don’t like any of the items! I’ve only had that happen once in my 14 fixes though so I think it is a rare occasion 🙂 I’ve never tried RocksBox, but it looks like so much fun! I just need to get myself wearing more jewelry before I can justify it 🙂
Becky @ Olives n Wine recently posted…#80 Treat Yourself Tuesday
Hi Becky! That’s good to know you’ve received to many fixes and only had that problem once. I have heard the longer you do it, the better they start to get what you like. Happy Treat Yourself Tuesday!! 🙂
Gorgeous stuff! I honestly don’t know I’d ever try Stitch Fix. I’m really picky about clothes. If it was offered to me, I wouldn’t turn it down. Rock Star now Id definitely try that. I’m a jewelry hoarder!
Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious recently posted…5 Things I’m Doing To Shape Up This Spring
Hi Megan! Then sign up for your first month free to get some jewels heheh! I understand about the clothing. I’m not really that picky, as I like to try a bunch of different things, so a service like Stitch Fix works for me. Hope you’re having a lovely Tuesday so far! 🙂
I really love that graphic v-neck blouse you decided to keep in your second fix! Super cute on you and like you said, perfect for spring. I absolutely love the idea of Stitch Fix, but when it comes down to it, I just can’t justify the cost of it at this phase of my life. If I worked in a professional setting and needed nicer clothes, then I would absolutely go for this, but I’m pretty happy with my Target, H&M, and Old Navy finds for now. 😉
Ashley @ My Food N Fitness Diaries recently posted…Challenge Yourself to Create Change
Hi Ash! Yes, I understand. If Stitch Fix had been around in my corporate desk-job days it would have made MUCH more sense for me. But I do like the fun of the surprise box, so I’ll keep it going a little while longer. And hey – you can find awesome stuff at H&M and Old Navy. So rock those bargains! 🙂 Happy Tuesday!
Ashley recently posted…Fun fashion services: Stitch Fix and Rocksbox
I like Stitchfix and have gotten a few fixes in the past, but I think I’m over it. My last 3 fixes were pretty disappointing (I did my last on my blog) so I might try another service. Your items look so cute though! Especially loving the last black top you showed..it looks great on you! I especially love the detail on the arms. I’ve heard good things about LeTote, so I might have to try that next.
Gretchen | Gretchruns recently posted…My Day – Night Makeup
Hi! Yes, LE TOTE is fun too. Here are a few things I’ve received from LE TOTE
http://aladygoeswest.com/2014/10/21/le-tote-clothing-is-the-netflix-of-fashion/
http://aladygoeswest.com/2014/11/04/blogging-is-funny-and-more-le-tote-clothing/
http://aladygoeswest.com/2014/11/18/treat-yourself-tuesday-and-le-tote-clothing/
Ashley recently posted…Fun fashion services: Stitch Fix and Rocksbox
I’ve done Stitch Fix about 4 times now. The first box was amazing. 2nd and 3rd were horrible. I decided to give it one last try and link my style pinterest board to it and it was much better. I agree, a lot of the pieces are pricey though. Love the black skinny jeans with the zippers! I need those for Paris!
Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes recently posted…What Happens in Vegas….and my favorite race signs!
Hi Sue! Well, it seems every one has a different experience. But at least I’ve received a couple great pieces. And yes, I bet you need to shop for Paris! So exciting! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Fun fashion services: Stitch Fix and Rocksbox
I have not tried Stitch Fix (am I last the last person alive who hasn’t? 🙂 ), but I just got my first box from Le Tote this week and I am LOVING it. It is similar to Rockbox, but for clothing too.
For $50ish/month, you get 1 box at a time of 3 clothing items and 2 pieces of jewelry.. just send it all back when you are done wearing it (or buy the items at a discount) and you get unlimited boxes per month. So far it has been a really fun way to add something fun to my wardrobe and try out trendy pieces I typically wouldn’t want to splurge on.
Shameless plug for my referral link, gives you $25 credit: https://letote.com/r/BEE877
Courtney! recently posted…Mrs. Robinson’s Romp Trail 10k: Race Recap!
Oops. I totally missed your Le Tote comment above ^^. You’re already in the loop!
Courtney! recently posted…Mrs. Robinson’s Romp Trail 10k: Race Recap!
Hahahh Courtney! That’s okay! And yes, I really enjoyed LE TOTE! 🙂 It was great when I had no closet space and couldn’t get new clothes. But now that I can, I like to keep the stuff! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Fun fashion services: Stitch Fix and Rocksbox
I really like the top you kept! The color looks so bright and pretty on you.
I’ve tried Stitch Fix once and I was so appalled by everything they sent that I didn’t even give it a second chance, lol. I’m super picky and like you, I have to really love something and justify needing it in order to commit. As much as I think it’s a super fun idea, it’s just not right for my personality. But it’s good that you’re giving the stylist time to get to know your style better. Hopefully that helps!
Sarah @ Making Thyme for Health recently posted…Spring Farro Risotto with Lemon and Tahini
Hi Sarah! Well you have to know yourself and what you like, so that’s fine that Stitch Fix doesn’t work for you! ahahah I’d hate to see what they sent you! 🙂
Hi Ashley, so cool to see a blogger review this company. I’ve been tempted to try, but I always end up returning stuff that I order online!
Xx, Tiffany | Sunshine Daydream
Hi Tiffany! Thanks! That’s the beauty of these companies — they pick the stuff out for you! Have a great night! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…I don’t like bad people, I do like good food