There are a handful of retailers that really seem to have a chokehold on me. Arket just so happens to be one of them. Something I put down to their heavy focus on effortless basics in (mostly) neutral hues. It’s approachable and their relaxed silhouettes feel effortless. My general experience has been that their items are good quality, and returns are usually just down to fit. Shopping online can be a bit of a gamble, and even if you’re a savvy/frequent online shopper, you’re still bound to make mistakes. Especially as you lack that tactile component, part and parcel of shopping IRL.
Majority of the orders I’ve placed this year have been items for the kids (the quality of their childrenswear is excellent). But when I received an email giving me 15% off sitewide, I couldn’t resist adding a few things to cart for myself.
The turnaround time from placing your order to receiving your items (here in Australia at least) is pretty quick; around a week. If you’re US-based and aren’t able to get your hands on Arket, then you might like to consider their sister brand, COS. I’ve noticed a number of the styles Arket carries, COS does too.
So… what did I add to cart?
Arket wool pullover (size S)
The epitome of Scandi chic, this looked like a more affordable alternative to this knit from Toteme. Slightly sculptural in appearance, but ultimately classic in the colour palette and “style”. I ordered this in a size S and would say it fit true to size. It’s boxy cut through the body and has a slightly relaxed fit.
What I liked about this sweater? The way it looked to have some serious structure and be quite a thick top. The v-neckline; a cut I have very little of in my closet. I was also curious to see how this 100% merino wool piece would feel. Was it bonded? How did it compare to the static images online?
What I didn’t love? It felt a little like I’d been catfished. What I received wasn’t what I thought I’d be getting. This was very boxy, and the way the fabric was cut meant that the sleeves and shoulders only looked good from certain angles. I found myself torn, as I could appreciate where the design should be taking me stylistically, but it wasn’t executed in a way that naturally felt appealing to me. I was also surprised by how the fabric felt in person. It wasn’t overly thick (less so than this cardigan here), and really only looked good when tucked into trousers. I tried this on with a few other items in my closet and in the end decided it was a no. For me, I was worried it would be a one trick pony which only worked with a certain type of trouser. Even if I love something, that’ll be enough to have me organise a return as I’m seeking out versatility with any new closet addition.
RETURNED FOR A REFUND
Arket rib-knitted wool jumper (size M)
Arket’s knitwear edit clearly got me good. Despite the abundance of sweaters in my closet, I seemingly find myself justifying popping yet another cream knit to cart on the basis of it having nuanced design details that are a differentiator. Please tell me I’m not alone here.
What I liked about this sweater? The dropped shoulder, horizontal rib, and contrast stitching on the shoulder seam and at the cuff. Oh, and that it was 100% wool – a huge drawcard for me. This style was sold out in my usual size small, so I went up to a medium. Based on my previous experience with Arket and sizing – which is typically quite generous – this fit me the way I would have expected the small to fit.
What I didn’t love? The curled collar at the neckline, and the fit. Arguably the most important element of any item you’re adding to your closet. Alongside fabrication (how does it feel on), and how it fits in with your lifestyle.
Every time I tucked it into a pair of trousers, it looked good. But I couldn’t help but reflect on how boxy the fit was when worn loose. While I’m sure I could see myself wearing this, it would never become a heavy hitter in my closet.
RETURNED FOR A REFUND
Arket Oversized sweatshirt (size S)
You all know the spiel at this point. I can’t resist a good stripe and I knew my fate the moment I spotted this oversized sweatshirt. That I’d be adding yet another to my closet. It’s all in those nuanced details as I mentioned earlier. The other reason I felt compelled to buy this particular item is that I don’t own really any loungewear. Outside of this tracksuit set from Everlane. Options are a good thing though, and it appealed that this wasn’t so much part of a tracksuit set, but still would fulfil that need in my closet. I also thought it would be perfect to wear on the plane for my trip to Dallas. I opted for the size S and that works perfectly for my height (172cm) but if you’re petite you’ll want to size down. It’s a roomy fit.
What I liked about this sweatshirt? It’s slouchy, has that dropped shoulder seam that I love, and the interior is warm. Kinda fleece-like, but not. The composition of the stripes is also nice; a detail I can be quite specific on. Also, the length. I felt it would work both worn loose or tucked in.
What I didn’t love? The banding at the hem has a rigidity to it, which means that it doesn’t tuck as effortlessly as I was imagining. This is a minor bugbear for me; something I can easily live with. Having worn it three times now, I do have one other point to note; the stitching on one of the cuffs has come loose. I’ve come to expect high quality from Arket, so seems like I must have gotten a faulty sweatshirt. It happens; quality control is done manually and brand’s can’t review every single item. I’ll be taking mine to a tailor in the next week or so to get repaired. If you own a sewing machine, it’d be a an easy fix.
ADDED TO MY CLOSET.
Arket Wool Hopsack Trousers (size 36)
Very much inspired by the Tibi Fans group, these trousers are a “dupe” for the Scottie pant. They’re wool, and have elements of a beautifully tailored trouser, but are all eased out. Working from home, and spending all my free time with the kids and my husband, it’s evocative? of the type of elevated basic I want to wear on the daily. Put together, but comfortable. Something I get the sense many of us have been seeking over the past couple of years. These fit true to size, and the ease means you have flexibility if you’re between sizes, depending on how “chilled out” you want them to look.
What I liked about the trousers? Elasticated waistband, nice loose fit through the legs, and the way the hem “puddles” over a chunky sandal. The fabric is a beautiful worsted wool. It has a smooth hand feel; not itchy at all. And they fulfilled that craving for an elevated basic; a silhouette which has the appearance of being more dressed up than I actually is. Because, fabric composition aside, these are essentially a straight leg tailored track pant.
What I didn’t love? Lint seems to be attracted to these trousers like moths to a flame. Not a dealbreaker for me as it’s a common experience with fabrics like this. All I need is to keep a small lint roller to hand so it’s a simple fix. Additionally, I do wish I’d had the confidence to opt for the red pair. Neutrals are absolutely my comfort zone, but I have been craving colour. When you’re in that position, it can be challenging to find the right balance or pick the right “colourful” pieces to complement your existing wardrobe.
ADDED TO MY CLOSET.
So that was everything that I added to cart from Arket. Anything that you currently have your eye on?
