Natasha Pump, Bright Kiwi, 6

Pros: great quality construction and leather (see picture of back zipper); excellent colour (true to name and stock images); sexy toe box; ankle strap works for petites too, doesn't cut the leg stupidly, owing to the narrow profile of the shoe overall. All that is promised in stock and catalogue pictures is true. Collection piece.

Cons:  very sexy, sassy shoe (though less than the caged pumps). Hard to wear in normal life unless you're young, carefree and fashionable.

Sizing: TTS, although there's the usual feeling of a gap at the back of the shoe that one gets with ankle strap pumps. The ankle strap itself is on the wide side if you have skinny ankles like me, but not so roomy that your ankle is knocking around in there.

Verdict: too sexy and unwearable for me: one for the shoe museum. Return.

Suede lace up caged pumps, blue, 6

Pros: gorgeous rich colour, lovely suede; laces are suede too; very manageable heel height (didn't feel wobbly at all); super sexy; lovely toe box; adjustable ankle width.

Cons: too sassy; not necessarily the best construction (see photos of back zipper)

Sizing: TTS

Verdict: gorgeous blue - the shoes are very sexy and I *died* a million times over the side view. But they are too sexy - I prefer classic and a bit understated chic. I don't think these can be described that way. On sale now - if this is your style, nab them in the next x% off sale! For me, they're going back. 

J Crew Reviews - Cotton Twill Swing Trench (sp2014)

Hello! 

Welcome to my first review post. Let's see how this goes!

Cotton Twill Swing Trench, size 00, modern red (which is the reddish orange JC trots out under that name, as usual).

Pros: stiff cotton, no detail spared, water repellant (it will bead on the fabric), hook closure at collar, two back vents, nice cuffs on sleeves, hidden buttons, cute shape

Cons: HUMONGOUS; added 20 lbs to me instantly, sleeve and coat length ok even for petites; no detail spared (*two* storm flaps?!); stiff fabric; poly lining.

Sizing: size down two sizes if you want to try it out, without fear. The designers could not have imagined us looking like balloon fish, fie on them if they did!

Verdict: Return.  Do not buy on sale.

Lifting storm flap on chest. One on each side.