i feel like i have bought and returns dozens of items from j.crew this year.  in the past, the declining quality, poor fit, and increasing costs have always left me wanting more. this sale season, however, i came across these two gems.  the sequin top is so stunning, and the cashmere turtleneck is soft, thick, and has no signs of piling even after several wears.

thanks for stepping up your game j.crew.

i was going through some of my old posts looking for a recipe, and i was reminded of so many of the clothes, shoes, and bags that i purchased over the years that just didn’t end up working out.  as much as i love them when i got them, i found that they weren’t as functionally as i hoped, and i ended up reselling or returning them.

i have tried to be much more careful about my purchases, but unfortunately, my method is not perfect as i still end up regretting some (though far fewer) purchases.  posts like this are useful for me as i continually asses my tastes and shopping habits and see where i can improve.

1.  celine duffle bag

this bag is so beautiful, but the shape made it impractical for my life.  i wasn’t able to carry documents in it, and the lack of pockets made it difficult to find anything.

2.  manolo blahnik sedarby heels

i still think these are gorgeous.  but i just don’t have the kind of social life that requires me to wear brocade and jewel-encrusted pumps more than once a year.

3.  jimmy choo peep toe pumps

although i wear these all the time, i have learned that for the most part, jimmy choo shoes do not work for my feet.  the patent leather on these were so stiff, and the peep toe cut into my toes the moment i put them on.

4.  alaia dress

this one is surprising, because i just bought it.  it is truly a work of art, but the wool and the folds made it so heavy.  i walk to work and all around nyc, and the dress’s weight meant that it was not practical for more casual use.

hands down, the most worn pair of shoes in my closet are my black pointy flats.  as much as i love my heels, with all the traveling that i do, i need shoes that are stylish but comfortable.  plus, its much easier to run to catch a flight in flats than heels.

my old black pointy flats were from london sole, and while they are cute, they did not hold up well this year (despite my preventive measures).  i had my eyes on these tabitha simmons hermione flats, but waited until the 3rd markdown on them to take the plunge.

i love how elegant they are, and the mary jane strap adds just a bit of fun.  i will report back on how they are holding up.  they need a trip to the cobbler before they are ready to brave the streets of nyc.

i have been in a pink phase for the better part of this past year, but there is something about this summer that is making me rediscover red.  these beautiful red peonies were a lovely gift that match with my new iro jacket. this jacket is the perfect complement to pretty much everything in my wardrobe.  it makes a simple t shirt and jeans look so much more special.

my marie kondo-ing of my closet helped me identify some holes in my wardrobe, namely nice blouses that i can wear with a pencil skirt for work but with jeans for a night out.

of course isabel marant has the perfect solution.  these blouses are the same fabric but slightly different styles and colors.  the silk jacquard has a subtle print, and is still substantial that the top is not at all see through.

the black version shows a bit too much skin for work, but i should be able to swing it with a blazer over it.  the neckline is so flattering.

after two pairs of my flats decided to die (and my cobbler regretfully told me that even he could not bring them to life), i found these beauties during the very tail end of bergdorf goodman’s winter sale.

the red is surprisingly versatile, and still adds a nice pop to your outfit.  they are going to my cobbler for protection before they brave the streets of new york.