Showing posts with label Product Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Product Review. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Spectrum Prospek Computer Glasses


Over the winter, I began to notice that my eyes were tired all the time and I was getting frequent headaches. I found myself wondering if it was time to head back to the eye doctor. By coincidence, that week, Spectrum offered me a pair of their computer glasses so I could test them and share my thoughts with you.

I began wearing reading glasses a few years ago, I finally went in for the first eye exam of my life, if you don't count the ones performed by a school nurse. I was prescribed a pair of progressive lens. I’ve had them 2 years already, and I still can't get used to them. They make me dizzy if I walk in them, and it seems my eyes get more tired wearing them. So I tend to stick with my drug store reading glasses and wear them most of the work day and in the evening when I work on my iPad.

I ordered the Spectrum Pro Readers magnified with 50% blue light blocking. When the package arrived in the mail, I was surprised at how lightweight the frames are. Compared to all my other glasses, these are light as a feather. I don’t even realize I’m wearing them. And because you wear them like real glasses, and not like readers on the end of your nose, I end up leaving them on, rather than taking them on and off like I do with the readers.

I like the look of them. They are black square frames with red on the inside of the arms. Red is my favorite color, so I love that accent there. Some reviews talk about other computer glasses that have a yellow tint to the lenses. These are clear.  The website says they block 50% of the blue light while maintaining color and clarity.  

So how do they work for me?

Pretty awesome! They have some styles with a higher level of blue light filtering, but the pair I have claim to filter out half of the blue light that is being emitted by my computer screen or tablet. The Spectrum website talks about the mounting medical studies that show that prolonged exposure to blue light can cause damage to the eyes. It also talks about how blue light suppresses the body’s secretion of Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and wakefulness. Since I use my iPad most evenings to relax, I like that these glasses are reducing the amount of exposure which could help me fall asleep easier and sleep better.

My reading glasses are 1.0 in magnification.they recommend when you order these computer glasses with magnification to order them half your normal strength. Mine came at .5 magnification. Maybe my eyes are getting worse, but I could use them a bit stronger.

I have been using them for a few weeks now. I haven’t had any headaches recently, and I notice much less eye strain than I used to have in the evenings. I like ‘em and will continue to use them.

If you don't need the magnification, they have plenty of other styles of different stylish frames to choose from. Do you have a kid that you cant get off their device? Me too, so make note that they also have frames in kids sizes.  The kids frames are super cute in orange or purple.

The cost for the Spektrum Prospek glasses is reasonable too. My reading glasses cost around $20 a pair at the drug store. These blue light glasses range from $40 to $45 a pair and only $5 shipping. If you only knew how much money I spent on those progressive glasses that I never use.  I think these computer glasses are well worth it.

Monday, August 15, 2016

Stick To Me Identification Labels, a Review

I've tried quite a few brands of name labels, and I continue to be amazed at the creativity and differences between the companies.  I recently had a chance to try Stick To Me brand labels.  It is a small company based in Quebec, Canada.  Each order is custom made, shipped free worldwide, and packed to minimize waste and impact to the environment (shown on the right). One of the things that make these labels unique is the artwork that decorates each collection. I like that each collection includes a variety of shapes and colors.


I personally illustrated the colourful, lively collections. I love drawing images inspired by my children’s universe. I’ve used state-of-the-art technology with superior quality inks to reproduce my drawings with precision. I hope my designs will draw you into my imaginary world and will bring you as much joy as they did me when I created them. 
Annie Nadeau, Owner of Stick To Me
I ordered the Cosmos Collection which includes 200 labels:

  • 120 small labels that are water and heat resistant so they are safe to use in the washing machine, dishwasher and dryer.  They are suitable for use on items such as baby bottles, thermos, or water bottles.  These labels are also intended for use on the care tag of clothing items. 
  • 16 larger rectangle shaped labels that would be great for use on the pencil box, tube of sunscreen or other school and camp supplies.
  • 32 small rectangle shaped labels that work great on smaller school supplies.  These also come with the matching transparent protective film for extra protection from wear. 
  • 8 triangle shaped labels for general use.  The cute shape would be perfect to label notebooks and book covers.
  • 24 round shoe labels with the transparent protective film to protect them from scuffing and perspiration.  I love these for school shoes, gym shoes, dance shoes, soccer cleats, rain boots, snow boots, flip flops and any shoes that might be toted around in their backpack. 
  • And as an add on item, we got 25 iron on labels which can be used on clothing items by applying them directly to the fabric with an iron. I always recommend labeling clothing items that might be taken on and off during the day such as hats, sweaters, hoodies, and jackets.

With Stick to Me, you cannot split an order with 2 or more names; however, I ordered this set for use by my niece and nephew personalizing the label with only with their last name and choosing a gender neutral design. Smart!

I am a fan of Stick To Me!  Their website makes ordering easy, The product is high quality and functions as designed.   And the price is very reasonable at $21.95 with free shipping.

If your school is interested to partner with Stick To Me for a fundraiser. They do all the work such as order taking, deliveries and the school or PTA collects a commission on every sale.  You can contact Annie for more information.

Friday, April 22, 2016

Lucky + Me quality undergarments for kids, a Review

Is your kid’s underwear drawer full of undergarments covered in kid’s characters and that you purchased at a discount department store? Until recently, I didn't know there were other options?

I didn't know there was anyone out there making better quality undergarments for children until I learned about Lucky + Me. Their website features cute and affordable items made from " high-end fabrics and accessories from the most ethical factories around the globe." The fabric is described as "super-soft, smooth to the touch and free of harmful chemicals."

They offered me a sample of their products to review for comparison. I can attest that the fabric of the girl’s panties I received are very soft to the touch and very well made. They pass the "Mom test" for sure. I wish they came in my size.


Ava Girls Bikini (6 pack) from Lucky + Me
Photo Copyright Rene Shonerd 2016. 
All Rights Reserved.

Ava Girls Bikinis

The Ava Girls Bikinis are sold in a 6 pack. They offer plain white, solid pastels and the prints which is a mix of prints, stripes and solids. These are made from a soft modal cotton and feature the most precious rose detail on the front waistband. And when I see lace detail on products, I instinctively think ITCHY. But not this trim. I've never felt lace trim like this. It's soft and stretchy like the cotton fabric.










Lily Girls Organic Cotton Underwear
from Lucky + Me
Photo Copyright Rene Shonerd 2016.
All Rights Reserved.

Lily Girls Organic Cotton Underwear


The Lily Girls Organic Cotton Underwear is a 3 pack of girls briefs in pink patterns inspired by the British countryside. They are super soft and trimmed in a soft lace with the cutest, tiniest bow.









Both styles fit great and more importantly, have held their shape after several trips through the laundry cycle. The organic cotton can shrink. The site warns to expect 7-10% shrinkage, and it seems about right from what I noticed. I didn't notice any shrinkage with the modal cotton.

The quality of the items I've seen from Lucky + Me is hands down, far better than anything you'll find in your local discount store. So moving beyond quality, the next most important thing is to find a pattern and fit that suit your little girl and makes her happy. My daughter would have loved all the patterns shown here when she was younger, but some patterns are too girlie and dainty for her current 'big girl" tastes. So, I encourage you to take a look at all of the colors and patterns available so you can find a package that suites your little girl's personality. I think the pastels are perfect for the youngest girls during putty training and the princess stage. I would select the Days of the Week set for girls just learning to read. And for older girls that have moved on to the sporty stage, I would recommend the bright colors and patterns.

Lucky + me also has different fits available. Shown here were the brief and bikini, but they also have girls bottoms in the hipsters and boy shorts styles. There is an equally cute coordinating cami top available to match each style of bottoms. Girls items are offered in sizes 2T through girls 9/10.

But hey, what about the Boys? Yes, Lucky + Me also makes products for boys too. They have a 5-pack of boy’s boxers on solid colors, 3-packs of box briefs in stripes or solids, and classic tee shirts in white.

Overall, I'm a big fan of Lucky + Me products. I think you, and your little ones, will be pleased too.

In celebration of Earth Day 2016,
Lucky + Me is offering
20% of on the organics sets
(Lily and Grayson)
with promotion code EARTHDAY20


Uniform Mom received complementary sample of items described in this review. No additional compensation was received for the review and opinions shared here are my own.

Monday, November 23, 2015

Code Socks- fun socks for kids that wear school uniforms


I am excited to be one of the first to review Code Socks, a new collection of school uniform socks.   The socks allow kids to "follow the rules, but crack the code inside your shoes."  Most uniform dress codes and schools with standard student attire require students to wear basic navy or white socks to match their uniforms. Code socks are a solid color, except on the heel and bottom of the foot where it features a fun colorful design.

What a great ideas! They are perfect for kids that aren't looking to break the rules, but may be itching to express a bit of personality in their attire.

Code Socks is currently offering 3 knee high styles in the basic white and navy.  While looking to expand their offering, they currently offer code socks in girls knee highs that fit youth shoe sizes 12-5 which roughly translates to ages 5-10. The owners sent me two pair as a basis for this review.  The socks are 85% cotton, 12% polyester and 3% spandex.  In our house, the school socks with that hint of the poly blend hold up and wash up better than other socks.  We struggle to keep our white socks white, but the poly blend ones stay a bright white.

The three styles feature cute designs on the bottom of the foot and heel which would be hidden inside the shoe while wearing school shoes.  They retail for $8 per pair or $20 for three pairs.
  • The first design is a cute polka dot (shown above).
  • A second design has rainbow colors along the bottom of the foot (shown to the right).
  • The third design features the word hello written in cursive across the foot.  

My daughter especially loves the hello socks.  She is totally into the hi/bye trend in girls clothing, so the hello socks play right into it. She wears a size 2 shoe and they fit her fine, not too big or tight. She is also very picky about the seam that run across the toe on socks. It has to be placed just right before she'll put on her shoe. Maybe she was successfully distracted by the cute design, but the seam on these socks didn't bother her a bit. She wears knee socks to school all fall and spring with her skorts, so these will get a ton of use.

I think the designs are super cute.  The socks are very soft to the touch.  The quality of the material and the workmanship is solid.  No loose threads and the stitching is clean.  Uniform Mom is big fan of Code Socks!

Please consider supporting this small US based business with an order for the uniform girl in your life.  They will make a great gift this holiday season.

Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Classroom Brand Polo from Schoolbelles

(c) 2015 Rene Shonerd
All Rights Reserved.

This is a sponsored post.  Schoolbelles provided me a sample polo to use as a basis of this review. No additional compensation was provided for this post.

(c) 2015 Rene Shonerd
All Rights Reserved.

The folks at Schoolbelles sent a Classroom Fitted Jersey Polo for me to review. This is a classic polo with the following features:
  • 3 button placket front and matching banded sleeve
  • The colorfast poly/cotton blend is made for easy care wash and wear.
  • 60% Cotton/40% Polyester textured pique.
  • It is available in eight different colors and is available in all sizes from extra small youth through triple extra large adult.
  • At Schoolbelles, the youth sizes are priced at $13.75 and the most adult sizes are priced at $16.75.

Schoolbelles carries this product in their value line of products. They tout that these items are carefully created to be fashionable, durable school uniform tested in real world situations with real kids. Assuming your child doesn't have a crazy growth spurt, I have no doubt this item will last a full school year or longer. My daughter is just outgrowing size 7-8 shirts.  While they still fit across the shoulders, they are too short when she lifts her hands over her head.  The shirt she is wearing in this photo is a size 10-12 which is a big jump that is running a bit big on her in the shoulder.

(c) 2015 Rene Shonerd
All Rights Reserved.
We've tried quite a few brands of polos over the past 3 school years while my daughter has been wearing uniform and I have been reviewing schoolwear. Based on my past comparisons of pricing between vendors, I have found most retailers price polos between $5.50 and $18. Based on the weight of the fabric and feel of the texture of this Classroom brand polo, it is above average in quality and fits nicely at a competitive price just outside my target pricing range. At their full list price, it is as labeled - a great value. If you pick up a few of these polos when Schoolbelle's is having a sale, you can feel confident you are getting a great deal.

You can find this on Schoolbelles's site by using the green General Catalog tab on the left hand side.  Select Girl from the gender drop down, then click the "Shop" button.  Click to browse the Polo Shirts where you'll see this polo listed as style number 8730.

It comes in a variety of colors.  You can get it in white (as shown here),  light blue, navy, royal blue, maroon, red, dark green, and black.  It is also available in a range of sizes to sit everyone - from Youth Extra Small through Adult Triple Extra Large.

Schoolbelles was recently featured in the Retail Round Up Series. Please use the school code S7001 when shopping online, when placing an order over the phone with customer service at 1-888-637-3037, or when shopping in one of their 13 retail locations across the mid-west..

Those living near one of their store locations should definitely visit to check out the additional quality items in their inventory. The rest of us can visit their website. To keep in touch and learn about their future sale notifications, Like their Facebook page and join their mailing list.

Monday, March 30, 2015

Classroom Girls Narrow Leg Pants from Schoolbelles

The folks at Schoolbelles asked me to take a look one of the items from their value uniform line of clothing. They sent me a pair of Classroom brand narrow leg pants as the basis for this review. No additional compensation was received for this review.

Image from Schoolbelles
Used with permission.
Schoolbelles' offers a value line of uniform items at a lower price point. These uniform line includes most basics like solid navy pants and basic white polos and tops that work well with most standard dress codes. They state the value line products are created to be fashionable, durable school uniforms tested in real world situations with real kids. The value line is made up of Classroom brand items.


We tried the girls’ value stretch narrow leg pants. I guess I was expecting the value line pants to be of average quality. However, the first thing I noticed when I opened the package is that the quality of these pants would rival the higher end competitors in the US uniform market. The material is a soft yet durable blend of 53% Cotton, 44% Polyester, 3% Spandex. Have you ever noticed loose seams and threads on clothing at certain retailers?  Not these, on this pair of pants, the seams are tight using a finishing zigzag seam showing better quality in the workmanship.


(c) 2015 Rene Shonerd
All Rights Reserved.
My daughter has a slim, athletic build. These narrow pants flatter her girlish figure so she looks trendy without looking inappropriately dressed for school. These were a little long on her, but because they have a narrow leg, we simply rolled them up one turn, While I've found other Schoolbelles items from their brand to run larger than many national retailers, these Classroom brand pant were true to size. The cut of the pants have a contemporary look with a short fly and button closure. They have a mid-rise, pockets on the behind and a narrow leg. The description says the youth sizes (4-6XR) have a center back elastic waist, while the youth sizes (7-16) feature an adjustable interior waist. They are machine washable. They are available in navy and khaki and retail for $17.75 in youth sizes.

I'm a fan of these Classroom brand pants in Schoolbelles value line. I would agree that they are great quality for the price. The Girls Schoolbelles value line also includes the Classroom Stretch Fashion pants with a straight leg and the Classroom Flair Leg Pant with a boot suit leg. 

For the boys, they carry the Classroom Flat Front Pant and the Classroom Narrow Leg Pant.  I bet the narrow leg style would work well for a slim boy.
 
 


Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Lands' End Featherlight Backpack and Neoprene Tote, a Review

I'm working with Lands' End as a Brand Ambassador during the 2014 Back to School season. They gifted me school uniforms for me to evaluate so I could share my opinion of the items with you. All opinions are my own.
(c) Rene Shonerd. All Rights Reserved.
Affiliate Links in Use
Thanks for Supporting Uniform Mom


Chevron is so IN right now.   The colors in this bag are kid friendly, fun and feminine.  The 
Print FeatherLight™ Medium Backpack, in Fuchsia Plum Chevron, was an easy choice from the new colors and patterns of the Lands' End backpacks this fall.



I bought my daughter a backpack from Lands' End when she started Kindergarten.  I liked that they are one of the few brands that offered backpacks in various sizes.  We shopped in our local Sears store which had a more limited selection than Lands' End online.  While a small Classmate backpack bag might have fit her frame better, she picked out a medium sized Classmate backpack that was in stock in the store that day. The medium was big, but not overwhelming for her size.  The medium size is recommended for kids 4 feet tall to 5 foot, 6 inches tall.   You can read my original review of that bag which she is still using two years later.  It is light in color so it shows some dirt, but structurally, it is still in great condition.  All of the zippers still work, the seams are still sewn tight, and the mesh pouch on the side is still intact.  It has served her well for year round use at both school and summer camps.  She used it in kindergarten and first grade.  During those years, she was required to carry two folders back and forth to school each day.  The bag is big enough to tote a stack of text books, so it sometimes seemed bigger than she really needed at that age.  Now that she has a new bag to use this year, we'll hold on to her original bag to use as a backup.




This new Featherlight Backpack has a new, trendy pattern, but it also has different features.  This bag has a padded laptop slot inside that you could use to tote a traditional laptop, a tablet, or another electronic device.  But even if you don't have any electronics to tote around, you can place folders or notebooks in it keeping them separated from gym clothes and other items.  The other noticeable difference is that this Featherlight bag seems thinner and looks less bulky on her frame than her Classmate style bag.  From the videos, it looks like both styles of bag can hold a fair amount, so it might be the adjustable side compression straps that make it appear thinner.  Most days, she totes around a few folders and papers. Occasionally it carries home an oddly shaped art project or we tuck a small umbrella in the side mesh pocket.  We expect the amount of homework will increase this year, so she might begin to have a workbook or two to tote around.  This bag is perfect size to hold everything she needs and fits her school aged frame perfectly. Here's a video from Lands' End showing what this bag can fit:



I "borrowed" the bag to bring home my work laptop this week.  I commute by walking about a half mile to the Metro station, ride Metro into the city, and then walk a few more blocks to the office. When I use a standard tote bag to carry my laptop, I really notice the weight of it and the strap digs into my shoulder.  My full size work laptop fit perfectly in the laptop slot of this backpack. The padding on the straps is wonderful. Combined with the padded back panel with the mesh lining, it made lugging the laptop on my half mile walk home a breeze. Thumbs up from me!  My co-workers noticed the bag and commented on the hip pattern and trendy colors too.




My daughter loves everything about it.  She can't stop playing with the bungee cord on the front of the bag. She tested it out this week packing it full of stuff needed for summer camp. It easily fit a large fluffy beach towel, her swim suit, goggles, sunscreen, bug spray and a poly folder for her arts and crafts projects. She loves the feel of the padded back and the mesh lining on her back.  That bungee is perfect for keeping a sweater or light jacket handy yet securely tied on.



Of course, she loves the cute pattern and colors. For the past two years, there is one other girl at her school that had the same pattern backpack as her.  Knowing this one will also be a popular style, we got it personalized with a monogram of her initials.  She loves that she'll always be able to find "her" bag from among the pile of bags at after school care even without all the decorative trinkets she hangs on the loop at the top of the bag. She is so excited to have a new backpack this year!


Based on a great experience with the quality of her first Lands' End backpack, I am confident this one will hold up well too.  I expect it will last her several years. We'll get another when she's grows taller and is ready for a large, or full size bag.  The Featherlight style backpack is available in medium and large sizes and various colors and patterns.  There is also a wheeled version and a messenger style. The regular retail price of the medium size bag is $44 and in my opinion, worth every penny.  It's even more worth it, if you can grab one when they are on sale.



FEATHERLIGHT BACKPACK FEATURES

  • no-tip design; water-repellent finish; plus an ergonomic design for comfort.
  • Die-cut EVA foam padding in the shoulder straps for superior comfort; padded back panels with air mesh lining for breathability
  • Tech savvy! Two internal chambers, one is padded for a laptop
  • Light but tough! Solids are 210 ripstop and 420D nylon body
  • Adjustable sternum strap keeps shoulder straps in the perfect position for comfort
  • Extra! extra! Bungee strap gives them external carrying capacity — great for quick access to a jacket
  • Side compression straps stabilize their load
  • Reflective trim also helps keep kids visible
  • Handy loop for clipping on a lunch box saves room inside the pack
Girls' Neoprene Lunch Tote - Fuchsia Plum Chevron
Girls' Neoprene Lunch Tote -
Fuchsia Plum Chevron
Lands' End also offers coordinating lunch boxes in the EZ wipe style, the soft side style and the neoprene tote.  We have a soft side one that she's been using for 2 years already.  So, we opted to try the neoprene totes.  I wish I could say that I am one of those Moms that pack a creative and healthy lunch, but I'm not.  Like many other kids her age, she is a picky eater and sticks to known favorites.  But she has commented on some kids that bring a hot thermos of soup, stew, or mac and cheese.  This neoprene bag would easily carry her typical lunch fare, but it could also easily hold a small thermos of hot food, a juice box and a snack.  I intend to pick up a new hot food container to try this year, and I hope to find a new lunch options to change things up and add variety to her packed lunches.  



So, about the NEOPRENE LUNCH TOTE-
  • It is completely collapsible, easily fitting in a kitchen cabinet when not in use.  
  • It is very lightweight.  
  • It is also comfortable to carry.    
  • It zips closed across the top.
  • It is made from 100 polyester with rubber backing.  
  • It is tested to ensure safety from lead & phthalates.

Monday, August 11, 2014

Lands' End Girls School Uniform Shorts, a Review






I'm working with Lands' End as a Brand Ambassador during the 2014 Back to School season. They gifted me school uniforms for me to evaluate so I could share my opinion of the items with you. All opinions are my own.
Affiliate Links in Use
Thanks for Supporting Uniform Mom
With all the short shorts so popular right now, it is hard to find a pair for school that will meet dress code requirements. These School Uniform Girls' Plain Front Stain Resistant Chino Shorts from Lands' End are an easy choice for warm weather days heading back to school this fall. The above the knee length is long enough to avoid any issues with dress code violations yet the plain front style and fit make them fashionable. Paired with a basic polo, the kids will be dressed for the bus and out the door with no morning hassles.


Girls' Plain Front Blend Chino Shorts
We've tried shorts from several of the major retailers; the wrinkle resistant and stain resistant treatment on these shorts makes all the difference to your weekend laundry routine.  These shorts are look great straight from the dryer.  No ironing needed.  That's a huge win in my book.   The seams have reinforced stitching at all the stress points for longer lasting wear. Depending on your climate, you might put them away for the winter months, but when you pull them out of the drawer in the spring, you'll appreciate the adjustable waistband which allows them to grow with her over the course of the school year. A quick fix of the buttons and just like magic, they fit again!

FEATURES

  • Long-lasting, super soft blend of 98% cotton/2% spandex
  • Fights wrinkles and stops stains
  • Side & rear pockets
  • Inner adjustable waistband to fine-tune her fit
  • Above-knee length
  • Little Girl sizes: Easy-on elastic back & snap-front close
  • Girl sizes: No-gap contoured waistband & button-front close
These shorts retail for $27.  They are available in classic navy and khaki in little girl's sizes (4-7) and big girl sizes (7-16).  They also have them in adults sizes (6-16) for $32.

Related Posts:





Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Girls Zip-up School Uniform Sweater from Lands' End

I'm working with Lands' End as a Brand Ambassador during the 2014 Back to School season. They gifted me school uniforms for me to evaluate so I could share my opinion of the items with you. All opinions are my own.
Affiliate Links in Use
Thanks for Supporting Uniform Mom

(c) Rene Shonerd. All Rights Reserved.

We've tried a bunch of cardigan sweaters from various brands over the past two years.  While I was reviewing school uniform sweaters from all the major brands last summer, I noticed that a zip-up style sweater was totally absent from the girls uniform selection. Many brands offered a zip-up style for boys. Yet all of the girls' sweaters had buttons. My daughter is a rising second grader now, but when she was younger, buttons were tricky for her to do herself. Buttoning anything, especially an item with small buttons, took patience and some amount of time. So, I was excited to see that Lands' End is now offering a Girls' Zip-front Drifter Cardigan.

When I showed my daughter the list of choices for her to try a Lands End sweater, I wasn't surprised when she right away pointed to this zip up style. When it arrived, I immediately noticed that it is heavier and thicker than our Lands End School Uniform Girls' Fine Gauge Cotton Cardigan Sweaters. And while we love the basic cardigan for year round wear, I would definitely recommend this sweater for those living in a climate where the winters are colder. I think it would also double as a jacket for those in areas that don't get as much snow in the winter.

And besides the warmth, you notice the quality feel of the cotton. The product description calls it "upgraded cotton" and says that it "each sweater is knit to fit, instead of cut and sewn like lesser-made versions. So it fits right from the get-go, with no bunching or stretching."  I love the cute fabric zipper pull because it is easy for little fingers.


FEATURES
  • Soft-as-can-be 100% cotton for all-day comfort
  • Knit to eliminate excess bulk under the arms
  • Full-zip front with easy grosgrain zipper pull
  • This product is eligible to receive a school logo or a personalized monogram.
This sweater is machine washable, however, the tag contains some special laundry instructions to keep it looking its best.  
  1. Turn it inside out when washing.
  2. Avoid tumble drying or drying on a hanger.  Instead, lay flat to dry and block into shape.
  3. Use a sweater comb to remove any pills that may appear.

Lands' End offers this sweater in classic navy, black, red, burgundy and maize.  It sizing includes little girls (4-7) big girls (7-16) and adults (S-XL).  It retails for $50.  When you get one, don't forget to to write your child's name on the label.  You don't want this sweater to get lost and end up in the lost and found.


Saturday, August 2, 2014

Girls School Uniform Double Knit Blazer from Lands End, a Review

I'm working with Lands' End as a Brand Ambassador during the 2014 Back to School season. They gifted me school uniforms for me to evaluate so I could share my opinion of the items with you. All opinions are my own.
(c) Rene Shonerd. All Rights Reserved.
Affiliate Links in Use
Thanks for Supporting Uniform Mom

The new School Uniform Girls' Double Knit Button-front Blazer from Lands' End is a super cute layering alternative to a sweater.  This blazer makes any outfit look adorable.



For some reason, school picture day  for my daughter's class was held on PE day for the past two years.  So she is wearing her basic white t-shirt, which is required with the Phys Ed uniform, in her annual school photos. This year, I will plan send this blazer with her on school picture day no matter if it falls on a PE day or not.  This blazer works just as well over a shirt with a collar as it does over a basic t-shirt.   I will also reach for this blazer to her to wear on a school assembly day when her class will be on stage in front of the rest of the school and all the parents.



Girls' Double Knit Button-front Blazer - Classic Navy, 8
Girls' Double Knit
Button-front Blazer
The side panels give the jacket structure and shape, yet the double knit fabric is soft and comfortable.  It is offered in navy in Big Girl sizes 7 -16 and Women's sizes 2-16.  As a school uniform item, you can personalize it with your school logo.  It retails for $70. It is machine washable.






The highlighted features include the following:
  • 100% cotton double knit is soft yet substantial
  • Resilient construction
  • Princes side panels lend a hint of shape
  • Easy care: machine wash
  • Single back vent
  • Patch pockets
  • Imported
A structure blazer is such a classic look on both girls and guys. Guys that are always complaining that blazers are too uncomfortable would love to have the comfort of a knit alternative.  But they guys will have to wait their turn until they develop a comfortable blazer for them because this one is reserved for the ladies. And because it is so comfortable to wear, it will get used more often than a traditional blazer.  It can also serve as a light jacket in the fall or spring months. These options make it worth the price difference from the basic cardigan sweater.

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Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Lands' End new Ponte School Uniform items- knit skort and blouse, a Review #Sponsored

I'm working with Lands' End as a Brand Ambassador during the 2014 Back to School season. They gifted me school uniforms for me to evaluate so I could share my opinion of the items with you. All opinions are my own.
(c) Rene Shonerd. All Rights Reserved.

Affiliate Links in Use
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Girls' Button-front Ponté Skort - Classic Navy, 10
Girls' Button-front Ponté Skort
Loyal readers of this blog know that I'm a huge fan of skorts  for young ladies. I am also a huge fan of Lands' end ponté. So when I learned that they had a new ponté skort this fall, I was excited for my daughter to try the School Uniform Girls' Button-front Ponté Skort.
I love that the ponté knit is machine washable, and holds its color. It is made from 74% polyester/22% rayon/4% spandex. It is offered in classic navy or khaki and has hidden knit shorts for coverage underneath.  It has a simple elastic waistband and the length of the skirt hits "above the knee".  It comes in little girls sizes 4-7 and big girl sizes 7-16 and retails for $32.

If you prefer a pleated skirt, check out the other new ponté item, the School Uniform Girls' Pleated Ponté Skirt or the School Uniform Girls' Ponté Pleated Jumper.




(c) Rene Shonerd. All Rights Reserved.

The skirt pairs nicely with a classic, crisp blouse. This Girls' Short Sleeve Peter Pan Broadcloth Blouse contains a bit of shaping so it's not boxy, and it has the more feminine peter pan style collar. This blouses can work alone or under a jumper. Layer a sweater over top to get the most use from a short sleeve blouse year round. Add a coordinating crisscross tie, even if it is not required as part of the uniform dress code.  It adds a finished look. 

The blouse is machine washable.  Because it resists wrinkles, you can get away without ironing if you grab it straight from the dryer, otherwise, it needs only a light touch up with the iron. The other feature important to uniform kids is that it is long enough in length to tuck in, and stay tucked in.

 
Girls' Short Sleeve Peter Pan Broadcloth Blouse - Light Sea Blue
Girls' Short Sleeve Peter Pan
Broadcloth Blouse


FEATURES

  • Broadcloth provides a smooth look all day.
  • Fabric wicks moisture, resists wrinkles.
  • 55% cotton/45% polyester blend
  • Pretty, rounded collar
  • Gentle shaping
  • Available in white or light sea blue (shown to the right).
  • Offered  in Little Girl (4-7), Big Girls (7-16) and Adult sizes.

(c) Rene Shonerd. All Rights Reserved.



These two school uniform wardrobe pieces make a great outfit together.  They also mix and match nicely with other uniform items. The quality of Lands' End brand is evident wash after wash.  It is more likely that your child will outgrow these items before they wear them out.  You can then pass them along to a younger child or the school's uniform exchange program.



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Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Lands' End School Uniform Perfect Fit Pants and Interlock Polo, a Review

I'm working with Lands' End as a Brand Ambassador during the 2014 Back to School season. They gifted me school uniforms for me to evaluate so I could share my opinion of the items with you. All opinions are my own.


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(c) Rene Shonerd. All Rights Reserved.
Today we'll take a look at two classic wardrobe staples: the Girls' Perfect Fit Pants from the Iron Knee collection and the Girls' Feminine Fit Interlock Polo Shirt from Lands' End.



I love the updated fit of the School Uniform Girls' Perfect Fit Plain Front Blend Chino Pants. They aren't a skinny pant, but the cut of the leg is just a bit narrower than a straight cut style. I think this will be a popular choice for fashion forward young ladies that wear uniforms to school. My daughter is used to wearing boot cut pants because she really doesn't like the feel of skinny jeans or pants.  After putting them on, she pulled at the pant leg once noticing the difference in the style, but not being able to vocalize the difference at how they fit her closer in the leg.  I then paid close attention to see if she continued to tug at them, but she quickly got used to them not giving it another thought.



As a Mom, I also love the features and quality of these pants.  Because she is just growing into a new size, we had to take advantage of the adjustable waist and make it smaller.  This is her first pair of reinforced knee pants.  Back in preschool, she quickly blew out the knees on all her jeans and I had to resort to using iron on patches.  So, I know she's going to put these Iron Knee Pants to the test this year.  But the best part is the hem. 



Lands' End does the hemming for you! Yeah, it seems so old school for a retailer to hem your pants, but it makes so much sense.  I've never understood why women's pants are made all the same length while men's are sized both by waist and inseam.  With these quickly growing kids, it seems the standard pant sizes are either too long or too short.  With a custom inseam sized just to fit, it makes things simple.  Because beyond a simple button repair, I'm no good at sewing and I don't even have a sewing machine or have access to one. This is so awesome for me because most standard pants in my daughter's new size are a good four or five or more inches too long for her.



When you place your online order, you enter your child's inseam.  Now here's what's really important to know, there is no need to size up.  They make the adjustment for us to allow some wiggle room for the fabric to shrink under recommended laundering instructions and to allow some growing room. I measured my daughter's inseam at 20 inches and, as advised, entered her actual measurements when ordering.  The pants that arrived measure almost 22 inches.  And as promised they will give her room to grow, but they don't look noticeably long and are totally wearable at this length.
Girls' Perfect Fit Plain Front Blend Chino Pants - Khaki
Girls' Perfect Fit
Plain Front Blend Chino Pants

Features

  • Improved fit for comfort and flexibility
  • Little Girl & Big Girl sizes: New! reinforce patched Iron Knees for longer lasting wear
  • Wrinkle-resistant 60% cotton/40% polyester blend
  • Front & rear pockets
  • Little Girl & Big Girl sizes: adjustable inner waistband to fine-tune her fit
  • Little Girl sizes: easy-on elastic back & snap button close
  • Big Girl sizes: no-gap contoured waistband & FREE hemming available!
  • Women’s sizes: Contoured waistband prevents gaping at back
These pants are available in classic navy, khaki and black.  They are available in sizes to fit everyone: Toddler 2T - 4T,  Little Girls 4-7 (regular and slim), Big Girls 7 - 16 (regular, slim and plus), Junior and Adult (regular and tall). The regular retail price is $40.00.





(c) Rene Shonerd. All Rights Reserved.
The pants pair well with the School Uniform Girls' Short Sleeve Feminine Fit Interlock Polo Shirt. Personally, I prefer the feel of the interlock polos to mesh polos.  And this polo is SO super soft, made from 100% cotton.  It is by far the nicest kids' polo I've seen.  If your child is fussy about the texture or feel of fabrics, you should definitely check this one out.



I always advocate that you look for brands and items with the word "resistant" in its product claims.  This polo is said to resist stains, resists shrinkage and resists piling. No boxy fit either; the fit is distinctly all girl and shaped to be flattering to a young girls figure. It is machine washable for easy care. The other feature worth noting for uniform kids is that this polo hits the top of the hip, allowing the right amount of fabric to properly tuck in your uniform polo. 




Girls' Short Sleeve Feminine Fit Interlock Polo Shirt - White, L
Girls' Short Sleeve Feminine Fit

Features

  • She-shaped, plush 100% cotton
  • Enhanced fabric keeps colors true
  • Resists stains and shrinkage
  • Top-of-hip length with side vents
  • Shaped: Not too slim or too loose
  • Sized to allow for shrinkage, please wash before wear

This polo is offered in a dozen different colors, so you're sure to find your school's colors.  It comes in sizes for Little Girls 4-7, Big Girls 7 - 16, Junior and Adult (regular and tall). The regular retail price is $18.00. And when required or desired, you can get your school logo added to this polo. 



I really love both of these school uniform items.  These are high quality wardrobe staples that will last through the school year.



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