Tailored by Tradlands

 
Today's post is another from my friend, Xochil. She's got a killer fashion sense and is deeply committed to American clothing manufacturing, especially in her hometown of Chicago. She has some great insight as an insider in the fashion industry and will likely be contributing every now and then. 

I recently wrote about tailored shirts for men, but what about for women? Sure, finding any old button-up shirt is pretty easy, but finding one that fits really well and doesn’t have the dreaded “boob gap” (even without a large bust), is much harder. I can’t remember exactly how I found out about them originally, either through a #ff on Twitter or Instagram, but either way, I’m so happy to have found Tradlands!

Tradland’s vision is to provide menswear inspired, functional and well-tailored shirts for women. After going back and forth between a few fabric choices, I landed on this fun, multi-colored plaid called Vacationland. I ordered my first shirt in early October, and immediately fell in love. First of all, the package was clearly put together with a great deal of care. I appreciated the lovely hand written thank you note from the founder, Sadie. A few days later I received an email checking in with me to make sure I was happy with my purchase. Love the personal touch and attention!

Back to the shirt though. I like to call it, relaxed yet refined. It’s like a great “boyfriend” shirt, but that was actually made just for you! Even though I’m small, I have struggled to find a really nice fitting button down, and after wearing this one a few times, I’m super happy with the fit. Like I mentioned, the chest fit is great, and the placement of buttons ensures the right coverage. The sleeves are just a touch longer than the average shirt, so they still look “full length” when bending your arms. The material is also nice and soft, and easy to care for – just throw in the wash and cool dry. The buttons are double tacked, so I don’t fear losing a button. Although if I do, Tradlands will send you a replacement free of charge!

I’ve worn my shirt a few different ways this fall already, with jeans, leggings, skirts; layered with a sweater or an American Apparel Henley, or just on its own. I paired it with my favorite sateen twill AG’s and booties for this fall shoot. I can’t wait to purchase my next Tradlands shirt! I’ve been eying Amy’s “Arapahoe” flannel shirt, and also really like the “Robie.” [Spoiler alert: I bought the Robie and Brunswick at the recent Northen Grade pop-up shop in Brooklyn.]

OUTFIT DETAILS

Shirt: Tradlands Vacationland (sold out; Tradlands Brunswick is similar) / Pants: AG Jeans Sateen Stilt in Dark Charcoal / Earrings by K. Amato / Necklace: vintage / Shoes: not Made in USA.

Xochil Herrera Scheer works as a Product Development Pattern Maker and Production Manager for various brands as a freelancer in Chicago. She is very interested in all aspects of the development and manufacturing process, and is passionate about companies and products Made in USA. Xochil is an active member of the local fashion community, and serves on the board of Fashion Group International of Chicago. In her spare time she enjoys reading, sewing, shopping and Instagram-ing.

@xochilurbanswan (Twitter) / @fashionxochil (Instagram) / +XochilScheer (Google+) / www.pinterest.com/xochilh/

(Photo courtesy of Tim Scheer; taken with the original Moto X, also made in USA)