Try it on (again): Kiyonna

One of my silly little New Year's resolutions is to buy less clothing, but to spend more on quality, classic pieces instead of trendy whatevers. So essentially... break even. But I'd like to see if it works out better in the long run. I recently ordered three tops from Kiyonna because I believe their clothes are really good quality for the price and I like the style and colors they choose. We'll start with the good.

I ordered the Modal Scoopneck Tee in bordeaux and I'm really considering getting another in black. I was expecting a slightly looser fit but I'm glad that it fits quite snugly around the bust, as I think a loose fit there would look less polished in larger sizes. The ties on the sleeves bugged me a little at first but I got used to them and they are a nice detail on otherwise basic top. I love Modal and the fabric Kiyonna uses is much studier and smoother than other cotton/Modal blends I've seen. I see myself wearing this top for many seasons to come.

I ordered the Modal Kimono Sleeved Surplice Tee in steel blue to go with gray trousers and I think it will work really nicely. I have to admit that I'm mostly sick of the "kimono sleeve" trend but the sleeves on this tee are basically just wide. I wouldn't call them a "kimono" sleeve by any means. The fit is just like you see it on the model and runs true to the size chart. Overall, a cute top that can be worn casually with jeans or a little dressier with a skirt or trousers.

And on the "maybe on someone else but not me" side of things, we have the Modal Convertible Ballet Wrap. I really wanted this top to work because the fabric is so soft and comfy and the wrap style is really versatile but sadly, it just isn't cut for my shape. I have a very defined waist and the bottom hem sits right there in the waist dent and it just didn't work. Maybe if it was a little longer? I do think the style would work for someone with more boobs than hips, though.

I might have a good reason to order one of Kiyonna's fancy dresses someday but for right now, I'm very happy with their tees. I always look forward to seeing what's new on their website. It seems like their styles get better and better every season.

Comments

[erin]

Glad to hear the ballet wrap top doesn't work for those with defined waists! I order it in "cafe" this week and then got a prompt email from a Kiyonna rep that it was sold out in that color. I ended up canceling my order altogether b/c the other colors that were on sale were not what I was looking for. Sounds like it won't have worked for me anyway.
As for Kiyonna dresses, I have their 3/4 length sleeve black lace boudoir dress. It is very pretty, but I think it runs small and is very expensive for what it is. The nude underlayer is made of a cheap polyester. It's a gorgeous dress on though and the length is perfect, even for short girls.

[Lys]

I have to say, their dresses are divine. I have the Ruched Surplus dress and can I say I wear that more than I planned. I'll wear it to work, out to dinner, out to a party, even casually on the weekend with a tank and a pair of flats. I've been debating about their tops but I'm going to give them a second look.

I agree with quality over quantity. I think you might enjoy Kiyonna this year.

[Moe]

Really? Buy less? Is that possible? I love Kiyonna's stuff. Someone mentioned their dresses and they are fab. One of these days I want to try their trousers too. Have you tried them?

[Lyndsey]

I also recently ordered the scoopneck with sleeve-ties shirt (in the dark blue color) and the ballet wrap, and had the same experience as you. I love the scoopneck and will probably get another (or two), but the wrap just doesn't work for me. I may exchange it for the surplice kimono top, but I have that same top from last year (not kimono sleeves, it has shorter sleeves) and it is too short. I'm wondering if the new version of it has the same body fit as the one I already have?

[Carrie]

Speaking of Kiyonna, I'm wondering if anyone has recommendations regarding where to find a wedding dress to suit someone that is a) short, and b) plus size and c) hippy. I'm a size 20, and 5'4". My waist isn't well defined because I'm short in the torso. I'm looking for something casual yet elegant, perfect for a garden wedding... no trains, no poufy skirts, no bows. I'm thinking something that falls straight with a slight flow on the bottom might make sense? The other idea I've been kicking around is something with a v-neck shape, and I'm torn about sleeves or not as my upper arms aren't in the best of shape.

[Gabrielle]

Also I wanted to note about Kiyonna all their items are made in the USA, so maybe that's why they seem a lil higher than most. And that they offer an every day 25% off on everything (even sale things)and free shipping to those military members/spouses such as myself! :) You just go to the Exchange's online store and click on the mall once you've made an account at the exchange (that's how they prove you're military). Oh and they accept Star Card (military's CC)! :)