I went to Woodbury Common for the first time last weekend. It lived up to the hype; outlet shopping won't be the same for me again.

After walking around for a ridiculous eight hours (have to get our money's worth on gas, lol), I left with a single item, a theory Richia W dress in navy/natural polka dots (may still be at outlets - tag info). It was marked down to $79 with an additional 25% off dresses that weekend. Not bad for a dress that's 100% silk.

The smallest size left at the store was a 4, which I eyeballed and concluded may work for me. My friend K took one look and said, "no way, it'll be too big". Unfortunately, K was right and I need to get my eyes checked. The armhole was big, v-neck a bit low, and the waist loose (sorry for the lack of photos). K and I talked about potential alterations: slimming the sides (vetoed, too costly due to side zipper), raising the neckline and armholes by shortening the straps at the shoulders (no, would leave a visible seam), and shortening the straps from the back (see pic below) where the two pieces of fabric met (best idea because seam would remain hidden due to the design and shouldn't be too costly). Sigh, I know I should already be seeing these problem spots and potential solutions myself, but it's much easier (and more fun) shopping with a friend who sews :)
While I mulled things over, K suggested that I go stalk this other girl walking around with the same dress in case she puts hers back on the rack (tempting, but the only subtle stalking I know how is online) or ask an SA to check sizes at other stores across the country (can't believe the style finder option completely slipped my mind). The only issue with the latter is that I wasn't sure if a size 2 would still be loose or if a size 0 would be too tight. K recommended a size 0 and well, after my eyes misjudged a size 4, I shouldn't be trusted. Luckily the SA was able to locate the last size 0 in the entire country for me. Hallelujah! Shipping was $15 (high, but I really wanted the dress), so I figured it essentially canceled out the 25% off promo. If you're my size and interested in the dress, it wouldn't hurt to call a store in case there's been returns.

The dress in size 0 fit me so much better than the 4 (neckline: perfect, armhole: still a teensy bit big, waist: just right). Thank you K for your awesome eye for detail. This dress' style is a bit maternity-ish, with the higher waistline flaring out slightly to a tulip skirt. When the wrong gust of wind blows by, it certainly looks like I could be pregnant (need proof?) For that reason, it may be hard to pull off, but I'm determined to try. I just couldn't pass up the adorable print. I like the size of the polka dots on me, it has pockets, the colors are classic and neutral, and it's just a fun dress overall to wear throughout spring and summer.

I know, polka dots are everywhere, and I'm probably the last person to hop aboard the bandwagon, even if it was accidental. Are you a fan or are you ready for the next trend?