j.crew review: peplum top in fresco floral sateen.

Last day for the secret sale at la Crew (code SHOPNOW for 30% off sale items). Maybe they'll extend through the weekend?

Today I'll share an unexpected purchase with you. I don't know why I have been obsessing over this top, the Peplum Top in Fresco Floral Sateen. It's a little cray-cray and I never saw it in person. I wanted to wear it with the warm jade green pencil skirt, jeans, and even some shorts with wedges on a summer night out. I have an event to which I'd like to wear it soon. I waffled over it quite a bit, and when it was dropped in price, and then had an extra 30% discount, I bit.

I know, you're probably thinking it wasn't my smartest purchase, and definitely doesn't fit into my shopping plan for the year. That's ok. I give myself a little leeway for items that feel different and special. I was pretty sure my PS would let me return it if it was a disaster.

The top is a Collection piece, and I love it. The floral print is so pretty (although I'm guessing DH will think I look like drapes. Just a hunch.)  A cotton sateen (97% cotton, 3% elastine), with an acetate lining (except for the lower peplum, which isn't lined). Feels wonderful to the touch. It has a side zip and a top button at the back of the neck, making it easy to slip on and off. 

The colors are really gorgeous, a mix of jade green (matching up with the warm jade No. 2 pencil skirt), lighter shades of mint (matching the Topiary Viv flats btw), and a pretty navy blue that is neither too dark or too light.

I went with a size 4, b/c I didn't want it to pull too tight across bust or shoulders (I'm a 34B), and didn't want the peplum to hit at a weird spot or be too short. That was the right call. I maybe could have gone with a 2, but I think it would be a close call. There is a wrinkle right at the bust from shipping that will need some steaming out. (The skirt I'm wearing is the No. 2 Cotton Double-serge in warm jade, size 4. Also wrinkled.)

Can it be dressed down for daytime? Mmm, probably not. At least I can't think of a way. (ETA: Like xoxo commented below, it could be worn with some cute shorts during the day!) But it is a pretty, feminine piece that could be perfect for any number of occasions: skinny jeans and heels for a night out, pencil skirt and pumps for work or a shower, shorts and some wedge espadrilles for summer dinner or party with friends.

It's not for everyone, that's for sure. It's a lot of print (a pretty one!), and the peplum's a bit of a trend. If you're really well endowned, the high neck might just accentuate that.

Some styling ideas...

peplum by shopwithm featuring 14 karat gold jewelry

What do you think? Like it? Are you trying it out? Has anyone seen it in stores? Too much for you? Check out yesterday's post for reviews on a ton of JC shoes if you missed it.

Have a great weekend!