Obsessed: Madewell

Looks like J.Crew’s little sister is growing up fast!

I remember the days when Madewell was a small, unassuming boutique filled with comfy tees, a large selection of jeans, and high quality accessories. Since they revamped the brand, it’s grown much more popular with the Alexa Chung collaboration and J.Crew styling. The prices have increased as well and the sales not as steep, but they have carved out its own identity apart from J.Crew.

Last week, the Madewell in SF debuted and it certainly eases the aching hole left when I moved up to the Bay Area. It has a section devoted to local SF goodies, which gives it a unique edge since you can’t really find these items elsewhere. The store has a different atmosphere than the one I frequent in Los Angeles, but it certainly reflects San Francisco’s rugged, urban culture.

Here are a couple of items I’m coveting…relaxed shirts and silk tops…yes please!

The Madewell brick and mortar store always has more stock and the sales are usually better than online, but if there isn’t a store nearby, online shopping is a great option. Being small and petite, it’s hard to tell how things fit online since Madewell is  known for loose fit and relaxed styles.

From my experience, the skinny jeans and denim shorts fit really well but the trendier bottoms tend to run bigger and looser. Knit bottoms, jeggings, and leggings generally run true to size. Dresses, skirts, and shorts tend to be sized larger than average, unless they have elastic or it’s “shrunken fit.” I absolutely adore the Madewell outerwear collection, but tends to be a hit or miss depending on the style since some run fairly large and others really small. I’ve also noticed that that quality has improved with the addition of brands like Saint James and Earnest Sewn. Madewell is definitely headed in the right direction!

When it comes to accessories, I find that Madewell always has great vintage-inspired pieces and fun statement jewelry. I know, I’m super obsessed about this brand but to me…it’s a store that really encompasses everything that I love about shopping (except the sizing) from the atmosphere to the styling and the helpful sales associates. What’s not to love?

To start shopping, go to: madewell.com

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