Exclusive Discount | 10% Off Sitewide - Verified
Special Offer | Up To 40% Off Sale Items
Purchase And Save Up To 20% On Clothing
Take 15% Discount On Selected Shoes & Bags
Enjoy Free Shipping On All Orders
Subscribe Newsletter And Get 10% Off Your First Order
Welcome to The Great Try-On Experience. As the arrival of spring presented us with the opportunity, we seized the moment to explore and document the process of trying on the latest collections from our preferred brands. We are of the conviction that the most effective approach to online shopping is through the experience of seeing items firsthand and engaging with authentic reviews. Our mission is to assist you in making successful purchases throughout the year.
From personal experience and other stories, & Other Stories emerges as one of our premier choices among traditional retail outlets. Over time, my reliance on this brand has grown, and I have come to appreciate their distinctive take on trends and their extensive range of wardrobe essentials, including striped tops, classic denim, and tailored pieces, which have distinguished them. & Other Stories resonates with discerning shoppers like yourself by offering a blend of timeless classics and contemporary, yet functional, items.
In the spirit of our Great Try-On series, I embarked on a visit to my local & Other Stories store to peruse their latest collection. My intention was to try on pieces that were both trend-forward and the brand's enduring classics. Despite my preference for more traditional styles, I was pleasantly surprised by the appeal of some of the trendier pieces. For example, I was initially skeptical about investing in a cargo maxi skirt, yet it has since become one of my most cherished acquisitions from this journey. This underscores the significance of in-person clothing try-ons in discovering new styles and ensuring that your investment is well-spent.
At 5' 4" tall, I am a true UK size 12 with an hourglass figure, and I am generally satisfied with my body. Nonetheless, it is crucial to acknowledge the persistent sizing discrepancies I have encountered with & Other Stories. Last year, I faced similar challenges with the brand's sizing, but I must admit that there have been notable improvements in recent times.
This time around, I was able to find a comfortable fit in tailored trousers that were similar to those I had difficulty with previously. There was additional room around the hips and buttocks, albeit the waist was slightly looser. The same applies to & Other Stories jeans, where I typically wear a size 30, yet the availability of jeans in a size 32 waist suggests that there is room for the brand to enhance their sizing options.
At & Other Stories, one might not encounter any issues related to sizing, yet I felt compelled to offer an authentic review by sharing my personal experiences and drawing comparisons with previous visits. It would be highly commendable to observe & Other Stories broadening its size range to accommodate a wider audience. Although inclusivity is not a singular issue at & Other Stories, it is undeniable that it must commence somewhere, correct? Every individual deserves the opportunity to access exquisite, meticulously crafted apparel, and there were indeed items I encountered during my try-on session that I believe should be accessible to all. Continue reading to explore my top selections from & Other Stories' spring 2023 collection.
1. Oxford Shirt + Pencil Skirt
It is intriguing how certain pieces, often regarded as timeless and resistant to trends, can, in fact, become fashionable. This phenomenon is particularly evident with striped Oxford shirts. These shirts, characterized by their white collars and cuffs, are universally cherished by both bankers and fashion aficionados. Naturally, I was keen to acquire one that caught my eye on the & Other Stories website. Fortunately, it was available in-store, and there was an ample selection.
I opted to purchase both a medium and a large size, yet, to be candid, there was not a significant difference between them. The fit of the shirt is already notably relaxed, leading me to select the medium size. I intended to pair it with something more streamlined, such as a pencil skirt, and I was mindful of not wanting any excess fabric to bunch up. After capturing some outfit photos, I untucked the shirt from the skirt and was pleasantly surprised by the minimal wrinkling. As someone who endeavors to avoid the use of an iron, this feature is indeed a major advantage for me.
2. Trench Coat + Basics
In the realm of outerwear, & Other Stories consistently delivers impressive results. Over the years, I have discovered several of my favorite coats from this brand, and this trench coat is no exception. The attention to detail is outstanding, and the brand excels in crafting outerwear that distinguishes itself. The sizing is notably generous, accommodating a range from a 40 to a 38. The sage color of this trench coat is distinctive yet practical, offering a compelling alternative to the conventional beige style.
Should one prefer a taupe shade that better aligns with their personal style, there is an alternative available. Regarding the jeans, I am already a proud owner of a pair of & Other Stories' Favourite Cut jeans in a 30 waist, and I was delighted to find that the new Mood Cut style offers a similar fit. These cropped jeans end just below the ankle and, despite my preference for straight-leg jeans, I was pleasantly surprised by their flattering flare.
The kick-out detail was charming yet not overly embellished, and the denim wash exuded a premium appearance. Undoubtedly, I am thoroughly convinced of their quality and appeal.
3. Cargo Skirt + Crew-Neck Knit
In contrast to my previous investments in leather blazers and shoulder bags, I have deliberately steered clear of engaging with any Y2K or '90s fashion trends. Although these styles may currently enjoy popularity, I am confident that they will soon be supplanted by new movements and designs, particularly with the introduction of collections such as Daisy Jones and the Six, alongside the resurgence of retro styles on the upcoming spring/summer 2023 fashion runways. However, amidst this evolving aesthetic, I am convinced that one trend will persist: cargo.
While exploring various alternatives, I have found most to be lacking in appeal. Yet, the moment I tried on this specific style, it immediately distinguished itself. The fabric was of high quality and thickness, and the beige hue was perfectly balanced, avoiding any signs of discoloration. The initial impression was quite positive. Upon returning to the changing room, the fit was largely satisfactory. The size 40 offered ample room at the waist while still fitting comfortably around my thighs and buttocks. Attempting the size 38, however, proved challenging, as it extended beyond my thighs. Despite not making the purchase, the skirt continues to captivate my interest. Its column silhouette likely contributed to its sleek appearance when worn. Should I decide to acquire it, I intend to consult with a tailor to adjust the waistline, thereby refining the silhouette.
4. Elegant Top + Jeans
Rosettes have emerged as a prevailing trend, captivating the attention of many with their visual allure. Their appeal is such that even individuals who typically opt for more conservative and understated styles, such as myself, find myself drawn to the idea of incorporating them into my wardrobe. I had previously encountered a similar style of gathered top on the & Other Stories website and engaged in discussions with my colleagues about it. Comments such as "If it's available, you have to try it on" and "I'm really curious to see how it looks" were exchanged. Considering its potential to enhance my spring outfits with jeans, I made the decision to visit my local store upon noticing it prominently displayed. Undoubtedly, the top is exquisite. However, the price point presents a challenge. My skepticism regarding the value of such a trendy item is rooted in the belief that the cost may not justify the investment. The top's intricate details and boning, designed to ensure a precise fit, are commendable, but their necessity for my occasional, fashion-forward attire makes me question the practicality of such a purchase.
Regarding the sizing, the top is notably petite. Despite being aware of my larger bust size (requiring a 32G bra), the largest size available at & Other Stories, a size 44, felt overly restrictive around my chest. Surprisingly, the size 38 offered the most comfortable fit at the waistline. This stark contrast in sizing highlights the challenge of finding the perfect fit for individuals with diverse body types. Although the top's aesthetic appeal and the potential for a flattering fit are undeniable, I find myself hesitant to commit to a larger size, particularly with the prospect of the alterations required to accommodate the gathering and boning elements, which could significantly increase the cost of the alteration process. Therefore, despite my appreciation for its beauty and recognition of its suitability for certain wardrobe pieces, I have decided against purchasing it.
5. Striped Knit + Tailored Trousers
The Breton jumpers available at & Other Stories are undeniably timeless, and I am contemplating incorporating a selection into my wardrobe for the forthcoming season. Upon trying one on, I was thoroughly convinced of its superior quality. The close weave and luxurious silk fabric elevate its appeal significantly. The stripe width and spacing were meticulously calibrated to meet my stringent standards. The medium fit was precisely what I was seeking. I am already envisioning its casual use this spring.
The trousers I had the opportunity to try on appeared remarkably sleek on display. After attempting sizes 40, 42, and 44, I found that size 40 was the most suitable. This represents a notable improvement from the previous season, during which even size 44 trousers failed to meet my expectations. A recurring challenge for women with a curvier figure when it comes to trousers is the issue of waist pleating. Having a background in fashion design, I am aware of the potential for pleats on mannequins to appear distorted on the human form, particularly with curves.
It appears that & Other Stories may need to reevaluate the strategic placement and quantity of fabric utilized in pleating to better accommodate a diverse range of body types. Implementing such a minor adjustment could significantly enhance the overall fit and comfort of their exceptional tailoring offerings.
6. Trench Coat + Floral Skirt
The current selection of colors at & Other Stories is reminiscent of a dessert platter adorned with sugared almonds. Alternatively, it evokes memories of the avant-garde school uniforms featured in the film Do Revenge. Regardless of the comparison, the collection emanates a sweet, feminine, and distinctly springtime essence. However, there is a concern that the floral motif, when combined with the skirt, might lean towards being excessively saccharine, which does not align with my personal aesthetic.
Nonetheless, it was imperative to curate an ensemble that genuinely captured the essence of the store's aesthetic. Although the skirt has not yet been available for purchase online, its popularity among customers, as evidenced by the number of inquiries and purchases, prompted me to consider it as well. The design was both appealing and versatile, allowing for a subtle yet edgy touch when paired with black leather boots.
In the midst of summer, I imagined pairing the skirt with chunky black sliders to juxtapose the seasonal contrast. The skirt's fit was notably generous, yet I found no reason to alter it. For those seeking a more tailored fit, I would advise adhering to your standard size. I chose to repurpose the crop top I had previously worn and completed the look with another trench coat from & Other Stories that I was drawn to upon browsing the store. In conclusion, I am a woman who is well-acquainted with her personal style preferences.
7. Blazer + Jeans
I possess a modest collection of blazers, which led me to discreetly incorporate one into the fitting room. Among my existing blazers, a few from "Other Stories" have proven durable and are typically crafted from superior materials. Although these blazers may be slightly more expensive than those available elsewhere, I find the investment to be well worth it. The majority of blazers in the store retained a winter aesthetic, yet the black blazer in particular caught my eye. Its distinct sharp lines and padded shoulders introduce a unique element compared to my current blazers. The fabric was exquisite - despite being 100% wool, it did not feel overly heavy or winter-like, making it an ideal choice for the forthcoming warmer seasons. The fit was impeccable, and the length was precisely tailored to my lower back area. I believe it would also be an appropriate length for individuals of a taller stature. The dress is fully lined, lending it a luxurious feel, which is crucial when considering a more expensive item.
In addition, I acquired a pair of the brand's most popular jeans, the Favourite Cut. Having worn a size 30 waist for several years, I am pleased to observe that the sizing remains consistent across the line. My initial pair was somewhat too stretchy and lost its shape after a day of wear. This new pair, however, felt more robust and less elastic. It may be time for an upgrade.
8. Knitted Dress + Ankle Boots
As spring draws near, knitted dresses continue to offer versatility and style. After an extensive search, I discovered the ideal option at & Other Stories. This dress is notably thicker yet boasts an incredibly soft fabric, ensuring comfort throughout wear. Its generous fit led me to select a small size, suggesting its suitability for a variety of body types. Ribbed-knit dresses are renowned for their premium appearance, and this one is no different. The dress's additional details, such as slits on the hem and cuffs, enhance its appeal, allowing for the seamless display of favorite footwear and accessories.
