Recently I mentioned here that I’d placed my first order with Avara. The brand is generally very feminine and features a lot of color, ruffles and puffed sleeves, so I’d shied away from it in the past. But several readers had mentioned that they enjoyed shopping Avara, so I set out to find pieces that would resonate with my personal style of classic, elevated and effortless. I think I scored! Let me share with you my first try-on session with Shop Avara.
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It turns out this is indeed our Lucky Day! As I publish this post on Monday, March 17th, Avara is offering us 17% off sitewide. Let’s see what I found to recommend. Please give grace for the photography. These are selfies taken with my phone, not James’ camera. I’ve tried to show you all the essential angles for clothes shopping, including the dreaded rear angle. Hahaha! At the end of the post I’ll share a little about my ordering experience with this brand, too.
I think the Jones Top (TTS, wearing medium) shown above is a nice, modern print, and such a pretty pale blue. I also especially appreciate the v-neckline, which is not too deep but still effective. A v-neckline is so flattering on so many body shapes, opening up the face and minimizing the waistline. I also appreciate the longer short sleeves, which hit just below the elbow. The sleeves are puffy, but not to puffy for my preferences. Verdict: I kept this one.
Let’s focus now on the Marie Top (TTS; wearing medium) above. I had high expectations for this bright print top and it did not disappoint. The length is perfect for leaving untucked and the curved hemline creates a very figure flattering silhouette. The print is cheerful and modern; I may not wear it next year, but I think it will be fun for this spring and summer. It does have feminine touches, but I don’t mind those occasionally. And I think the tradeoff is worth it because of how flattering the lines are here. Verdict: This one is in my closet!
The Tammy Top in Light Pink (TTS; wearing a medium) above was an immediate yes for me. I feel like it’s a closet basic that doesn’t look too basic. Pale pink is really trending this spring and summer, so it will feel current. And cotton gauze is a nice fabric for the season. It is roomy, but I’d still say it runs true to size. However, I do think the top needs to be tucked in to control the volume. Verdict: I kept this one, too.
About those jeans: I’ve tried on the Kelsey Jeans before at other stores and knew that they do indeed run a little large. However, the 8s feel and look just a tad small on me. These are great jeans for the price though. Very reasonable for good denim. The shape, length and rise are really nice and modern. I highly recommend the Kelsey Jeans from Kut from the Kloth in general. Verdict: I kept them but I think losing a little more weight will help me feel more confident in them.
I was curious to try on the Roxanna Denim Jacket because I like the idea of a feminine silhouette in a jean jacket. I was quite pleased. The website suggested sizing up, so I went with a large. But I really think the medium might have fit better. The large is pretty roomy on me and there is some stretch in the fabric. Unfortunately the white is almost sold out in all but the largest sizes. However, there is a light blue wash that looks really nice. Verdict: I kept this one.
I really ordered the Jordan Dress out of curiosity for my readers more than anything. I have a couple of white dresses in my spring and summer wardrobe from last year, so I don’t need another. But I do think a pretty white dress is so smart at this time of year. This one is really nice quality with a thick 100% cotton in both the eyelet and the contrast. It is lined and feels super soft. I wouldn’t say the dress runs large, but it is roomy. The sash belt is made nicely but I would probably switch it out for a leather or straw belt. Verdict: returned just because I don’t need a white dress.
The Lucy Dress is probably my favorite item from my order with Avara. Unfortunately I found it to run small. Yes, it’s flattering, but it feels uncomfortable to me at this fit. I would suggest sizing up if you like a little more give in your clothes or going with your usual size if you like or don’t mind things being snug at the waist. The dress is lined and the fabric is luxe and substantial. It won’t be hot, but it is a substantial dress. I think it is super feminine and pretty, well worth the price if it fits nicely on you. Verdict: I returned because I’d prefer a more comfortable fit.
I thought I’d provide a little feedback about my order experience with Avara. I found the website easy to navigate and the selections myriad. My order arrived nicely packaged in a pink shipping bag with each item individually bagged, too. I’ve already processed my return and it was very easy. I did have to pay a $6.95 handling fee for the return, but I don’t mind those. I figure that’s about the same as the price of gas I’d pay to go to a store and back. Small businesses have to charge fees like that to handle returns, and I’d rather them do that than the other options.
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Remember, you do get 17% off today only at Avara. Thanks so much for stopping in today. Let me know if you have any questions. Have a great day!
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Blessed for My Day
Perspective. The way we see something largely determines how we approach it and navigate our way through it. Bottom line, whatever we focus on becomes larger. While that which we neglect or choose not to dwell on begins to diminish, shrink in both impact and power.
Consider your current situation, the season through which you are walking. Are there circumstances that seem large and looming, preventing you from reaching the desired destination or outcome? Maybe that’s because you are focusing too closely on them. But if you choose instead to focus on the promises and power of God, those circumstances may diminish in their threat. They may not disappear, mind you. But they will lose their power and you will not feel hopeless or threatened by them. And, in contrast, the more you focus on getting to know your God, His promises will ring louder in your ears and His power and love will boost your faith and courage.
“…the land…certainly does flow with milk and honey, and this is its fruit. Nevertheless, the people who live in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large; and moreover, we saw the descendants of Anak there.” ~ Numbers 13: 27-28
“The land which we passed through to spy out is an exceedingly good land. If the Lord is pleased with us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us–a land which flows with milk and honey.” ~ Numbers 14:7-8
I’ve had my eye on that light pink Tommy top for quite awhile. It’s so elegant looking.
It appears that this “new to me” retailer has a nice clothing line, some of which fit with my style. Just a side note; I’m noticing that you are wearing so many more prints this year in colors that look good on you while I have been working to limit them in my wardrobe. It reminds me that moderation and careful selection is so important.
I really like the tops on you. I may have to try one!
I love the pink top. That color looks pretty on you. I haven’t tried Avara but will head there soon b
Thank you for your Word in Blessed for My Day. Perspective is everything and when we put God in his proper place, our troubles seem small. He is Lord of all of it. So appreciate you, Kay. You are part of my mornings.
I’ve never heard of Avara. I will need to check them out. I really liked your choices from there.
I’ve never heard of Avara. I will definitely check them out. I really liked your choices from there and the looked so nice on you.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! The items from Avara are all so pretty. The Lucy Dress is definitely one that I would wear. The fabric on the Marie top is very pretty, too.
That blue shirt is my favorite. It makes me think “Vacation!”.
On the denim jacket I like the feminine touch of tucks in the sleeves.
Thanks for showing such nice Avara items.
I’ve never tried Avara but I want to now. Love the pretty tops and white jeans. You look so nice in all the clothes, even the “rear angle”, LOL. Have a wonderful day.
Such beautiful tops. I’m not normally a dress girl, as I seem to have a hard time finding a good fit.
Thank you for sharing Avara and doing the legwork for us. I will probably stick with Talbots!
What lovely outfits today. The patterns and colors help me realize spring is almost here! In the photo of the white jean jacket you are wearing a salmon colored shirt. Is that also available Avara? It would be a nice addition to my spring/summer wardrobe. Thanks Kay
It’s this tank from Talbots. https://rstyle.me/+zH2qa5HVCGkGlyQCUt2HOg
I really liked the Jones top but see it is sold out in the medium. Will have to look at their site again to see if I can find another top I would like. Enjoyed the BFMD.
All the items looked great on you. Looking forward to see how you style them in future posts.
You look beautiful in everything you ordered but the white dress is my favorite. I really enjoy when you introduce us to a new retailer. I used to shop mostly Talbots but now that my eyes have opened to other retailers, I enjoy so much variation. Some of my favorites are JCrew, Madewell, Frank & Eileen (love them), Lillysilk, Evereve, Aly shoes. And yes your discount codes help! While looking for a dress for a “formal” wedding, I came across a new retailer on my own called MacDuggel (some nice dresses) and many times I have good luck at Tuckernuck for dresses as well. Thank you for doing what you do Kay!
Yes, I love MacDuggal. So beautiful!
Enjoyed the post. The blue dress was my favorite!
Hi, Ordered the white jean jacket in a large size but it is way too small. Think it might have been sized wrong. I wear the same size in all of my jackets. So disappointed. Found the co nice to deal with and will try them again. The jacket is very nice.
Thank you for being our “guinea pig” and ordering from Avara. They looked lovely on you but unsure for me🤷♀️.
I find that I have to go up a size in white jeans. Those look like very nice jeans though.
I used to, but in recent years I think brands are better about giving a little more room in white jeans so that you don’t always have to do that. It really seems to vary by brand.
The Marie Top is beautiful and 100% cotton which is always my preference, so I decided to go for it. I was so disappointed to discover that all sizes are sold out.
Sorry to hear that. I’m sure they have other similar styles worth considering though. And they may restock.
Nice looks, today, Kay! Thanks for modeling them for us. It’s always helpful to see items on real women.
Does the white dress have a waistline seam?
Hmm I’ve returned it now. But I don’t think it does. It certainly doesn’t have a cinched one. And I remember when I took the belt off that the loops for it were lower than where I’d worn it, so I don’t think there is a seam there at all.
I live in Naples, Florida and just love wearing gauze tops to keep cooler in our tropical weather. Thanks for the introduction to another place to shop. I look forward to checking out their website. Your selfies turned out wonderful!
Beautiful outfits! I really like the blouses.
I like all the items on you. I wish the white dress came in a color. Love the devotional message. So true. Kay is it the lighting but your hair looks more blonde than silver on my screen?
They do have several other dresses in pretty colors that are similar. Worth checking out. Yeah, my hair really is still a mixture of blonde and grey. But I’m not putting anything on it.
I thought the Kelsey jeans look great on you as is!
You look so pretty in all of the spring colors! Thank you the information on fit because I have never tried this brand before.
The clothes all look very nice on you. I noticed the Marie top is still sold out. I did the Notify Me when you showed it recently. Maybe there’s a chance it will be restocked.
Thank you for sharing with us your experience shopping Avara! It was very helpful hearing how smooth the return process is with Avara, as well. I appreciate all the work you do in vetting brands and bringing us the best tips in how to look modern as we dress for our day! 😊
I visited the Avara website and they have some very pretty things for spring and summer. I like the Jones top in blue and the Tammy top in lilac. Thank you for sharing this new site. Kaye
So glad to see these in real life. The Jones top – is it a short enough length to leave untucked? I don’t tuck in my shirts. I like the Tammy but you said it needs a tuck to control volume, so that one is a pass.
I prefer at least a front tuck with it. You can see the length in the photo. It’s a little full to leave out in my opinion.
Hi, Kay.
I’m writing with comments and questions. Also, because I’ve written before, but I don’t know where to find my letter and your reply. Could you please email me with a reply? I wanted to tell you that you look great and I would like you to please tell me again what you’re doing to trim up. You always look lovely, but you even look younger now.
Second, I’m so grateful for all of your suggestions because I have bought some clothing from several of the stores Our manufacturers, I would never have thought to do before and I’m very happy with my purchases.
I wanted another church dress and I found a beautiful blue and navy design of Jude Connolly at a department store. I would think I would wear a petite 12 and it is a medium and fits perfectly. So I’m very grateful for all you do.
And could you please tell me how I can find my comments? Could you please email?
I also had a question about a navy linen shirt waist dress I bought at a department store, which looks great. I just don’t know if I want to iron it constantly. Thanks again. Lisa Springer.
Hi Lisa, if you have entered the correct email address when you left your comment, you should get an email when I reply. I do try to respond to all questions, but undoubtedly I miss some.
I have gotten back on the FASTer Way to Fat Loss this year and am sticking with it. Seven years ago I lost 20+ pounds with it and I’ve been subscribed to the program ever since. But after veering from it to frequently over the past three years, the weight had slowly kept back on. So I back on with a stricter commitment now and it is working again, albeit more slowly. You can learn more here. https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/?aid=KAYHARMS
Kay, I really appreciate how responsive you are to your readers. I have come to realize that I like some feminine touches and some prints in my wardrobe and you have shown me how to wear both in a modern way. The tips in your recent video about how to wear prints were very clearly explained and demonstrated. Thank you also for recommending Melissa Murrell as I appreciate her positive advice “for the everyday woman”. Maybe you and Melissa should do a collaborative video!
Thank you for sharing this brand. I was unfamiliar with them and would shy away from the ruffles and puff sleeves also.
Avara has some pretty clothes!
I have just completed a bible study and I am learning to strive less and trust the Lord more.. I t really believe it is working.
Very pretty items and they all look lovely on you! Always good to learn about a new-to-me brand – I like knowing about more options for shopping!
These are beautiful pieces and look so pretty and feminine in the best way. I have never shopped from Avara..I will definitely give them a look! Thanks for trying them out for us!
Love the blue dress it looks very nice on you. Comfort is the key to dressing and having confidence so thanks for the tip of running a bit small.
I like the choices you made from this retailer. Really like the blue top and the dresses. I cannot stand my pants tight and I notice so many of the bloggers have their pants pulled across the front and rear. It looks good on you but on me it really binds. I probably don’t look too great with baggy britches either haha.
Thank you for today’s BFMD. It speaks to a season I’m currently in. A good reminder that I need to turn it over to God, meditate on His Word and who He is, and He will guide me.
Kay
Thanks for showing us a new company, especially a small business run by women. From the comments, it has appealed to a lot of your readers and that’s exciting to just have diversity in the fashions you are showing!
Cheers to diversity.
Tammie
Several of my southern bloggers rave about this store and it definitely has a feminine and younger vibe. I did like the print of the Marie top but I wouldn’t like the neckline, stand-up collars can bother me, like it’s poking me in the neck! I liked the Lucy blue dress. I usually can size down in Kut from the Kloth jeans, but not in white. Thanks for showing us a new store.
Oh, my goodness! All of these are right up my alley, as one of my style angles is “feminine”. Beautiful! I’ll be checking out Avara for sure.
I understand about shying away from too much feminine detail but you found two winners in the Jones and Tammy tops. So lovely on you!
I enjoy the scriptures you end your blog with …thank you for that! You look great in the Avara ‘Tammy Top’ in pink 👍🏼
The tops are so pretty! It’s nice and helpful to have them modeled! Thank you!