J Crew Sale: My Pop of Colour (Finally!)

Coloured and patterned pants have been in style for a few years now, but I hadn't dared to wear any of it until quite recently. Typically my style is very classic and I don't wear a lot of super trendy items of clothing, especially pieces that cost more (like pants).

I first experimented with coloured denim back in the winter, thinking it might perk up the gloomy season. However, the pair of pants that I purchased from Gap, a pair of neon colour jeans, did not work out. They were much more florescent looking in person than online, and it didn't sit well with me. I just couldn't imagine walking around wearing these pants and not being completely distracted! Not to mention I just felt really loud and they just didn't feel like me. Thus they, like so many other purchases before them, were returned (I'm know for making a lot of returns, it's something my dad likes to laugh about).

After that first experience I deemed it as my first and last attempt to delve into the world of coloured pants. I figured I might just opt for the khaki or greens that were also on trend for the spring and summer seasons instead. I did later purchase a pair of "neon pink" twill shorts though, from Old Navy back in May. And I love them! I guess because there isn't a lot of material to shorts, they suited me. They are on trend but I feel like I can pull them off.

With these shorts I could dabble in the trend without making a huge commitment.

However, when I was out with a friend near the end of June, we popped into J Crew just for a peak at the sale rack when I spotted a pair of Lavender ankle jeans! I swooned! Not only were they a fantastic price (reduced from $144 to $19.99!) they were a pale pastel lavender, so they were understated and really pretty. I dared to try them on and was pleasantly surprised! The fit was quite flattering, I find J Crew makes a good pair of jeans - and they should for the price - and the colour wasn't over powering and nor was it something I felt I couldn't pull off! And so I snapped them up!

I sort of got the tip from Anna and Kristina's Grocery Bag blog (http://www.annaandkristina.com/). These women host a show on the Oprah network under the same name and they are known for testing products. I subscribe to their blog and Anna was talking about the great deal she got on the same pants at J Crew (http://www.annaandkristina.com/bye-bye-blue-jeans/) - so that's what really inspired me to pop into the store that day. And I ended up getting the same pants she got!

So far I have worn the pants a number of times, and my only complaint is that they have such a high cotton count that they need more maintenance than other pants (ironing). But it's worth it. I really do feel like I can look as put together and effortless as Kate and Pippa when I wear these pants. I pair them with a neutral top (like a more dressed up grey t-shirt) and my nude flats and I am ready to go!