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Trunk Club for Women Subscription Review – May 2018

Marne Orenich
ByMarne OrenichMay 27, 2018 | 23 comments

Trunk Club box

Trunk Club
3.5 overall rating
59 Ratings | 13 Reviews

Trunk Club is a clothing styling service for both women and men. Similar to Stitchfix, subscribers fill out a detailed style profile which, in turn, your assigned stylist uses to handpick clothes, shoes, and accessories. There is a $25 styling fee which is credited towards whatever you decide to keep.

open Trunk Club box

The box looks like an old-timey trunk which I find extremely charming. It even has a handle for easy travel! Side note: if you happen to keep everything in your trunk, the cool box is all yours too.

Trunk Club contents may 2018

Trunk Club is a Nordstrom company, and they send brands that are in the $75-300 range. In the style profile, you can choose your preferred price range for each category (ie. $50-100, $100-200, or $200+).

The items in this box are reflective of my style and price preferences, so your Trunk Club will be completely different!

My Subscription Addiction paid for this box. (Check out the review process post to learn more about how we review boxes.)

Trunk Club contents may 2018, unpacked

About Trunk Club

The Subscription Box: Trunk Club

The Cost: $25.00 styling fee, credited towards any items you choose to keep, plus the cost of whatever you keep. Shipping and returns are free.

The Products: Clothing, shoes, and accessories hand-selected by your stylist for you to try on at home.

Ships to: Contiguous 48 states for free. Alaska and Hawaii (shipping and return fees apply).

Good to Know: Trunk Club carries sizes XS - 3X. Check out Anna and Nicole's plus size reviews here!

Also good to know: Trunk Club price matches "within 14 days of purchase exclusively to Nordstrom." The $25 styling fee is waived if you use a Nordstrom credit or debit card.

Trunk Club Women's May 2018 Review

When I first signed up, I went to the Trunk Club site and immediately was asked to fill out a somewhat lengthy but fun questionnaire on my style and sizes. I chose colors, patterns, types of clothing I am into, the type of shoes I normally wear, etc. I then chatted with someone to hone in on a few more things and was assigned to my stylist Jasmin. There is a messaging system within the Trunk Club site (and app) that allows the two of us to communicate and send photos. If there is something I'd like to try or need, I can let her know. I can also give her feedback on all of the pieces I receive to help her understand my likes & dislikes as well as share my Pinterest boards!

info sheet envelope

All of the paperwork came in this nifty little paper folder.

return label and stickers

They include a return label and stickies to seal the trunk shut for anything I send back.

how trunk club works

The front of the pamphlet explains the steps on how this all works. Once you try everything on, just send back what you don't want. You can even schedule a UPS pick up, free of charge.

message from stylist

Next, there's a short message from my stylist, Jasmin. Last month I learned that I should stay in my comfort zone to find clothes that I like, instead of trying clothing I think I should own. I also kinda wanted to try some rompers this time since they look so darn cute. All of the items are very Marne-approved.

cost sheet for items

On the next page is a list of the items Jasmin chose for me and the cost to keep them. My $25 styling fee will go towards anything I decide to keep! I learned last month that it's a good idea to check the current price online. Some things go on sale, and they also price match other stores!

trunk club contact info

The back has all of the Trunk Club contact info.

Now let's see these items...

Fabia Mixed Media Link Necklace by BaubleBar close up of Fabia Mixed Media Link Necklace by BaubleBar Fabia Mixed Media Link Necklace by BaubleBar on model

BaubleBar Fabia Mixed Media Link Necklace - Cost to Keep $58.00

As I mentioned last month, I sent Jasmin a necklace via Pinterest that I liked and she had sent a similar one but the links moved around too much and made me a little crazy. She sent another similar one this time, also by BaubleBar, but with thicker links. I don't dislike this, but after having it on realized that I'd prefer it to be all one color. I'm just not married to the light tortoise coloring and overall, it's a little expensive for what it is.

Gibson x Living in Yellow Becca Tank Dress keyhole detail on back of Gibson x Living in Yellow Becca Tank Dress dart detail for Gibson x Living in Yellow Becca Tank Dress

Gibson x Living in Yellow Becca Tank Dress, size S - Cost to Keep: $58.00 (on sale for $38.86)

Eeeeee- I love this dress! As soon as I put it on, I knew I'd be keeping it because it actually FITS. I rarely find dresses I like, so when I do, I gotta jump on them. It can be dressed down (with a jean jacket and sandals or sneakers) or dressed up (with a statement necklace like the BaubleBar one and some heels) so it's versatile. It also has the perfect a-line to compliment my smaller top and wider bottom/hip/rear area. I don't think the pics do it justice, but it's really flattering on my frame. The only bummer is that the button at the top of the keyhole on the back is pretty tough to fasten and undo. I'll have to make sure I have a friend to help me in and out of this. There are also small darts at the sides to make it fit snuggly. I couldn't believe it was only $58.00, but then discovered it's on sale too!

The Boardwalk Multistrap Sandal by Madewell box 3/4 view of The Boardwalk Multistrap Sandal by Madewell front view of The Boardwalk Multistrap Sandal by Madewell

The Boardwalk Multistrap Sandal by Madewell in Black, size 6 - Cost to Keep: $59.50

I have one pair of (cheapish) sandals that I bought last year and wore to death, so I'm in the market for a new pair this year. I had sent Jasmin a few ideas from the Nordstrom site and these were one of them. I think the price is right and I only wear real leather, so these are a win in those categories, but I realized they have too many straps happening. I prefer a more minimal style that maybe just has two across the front and one in the back (basically the pair I already own and need to replace). The tan lines from these would be intense, amirite?

n:Philanthropy Breeze Romper back of n:Philanthropy Breeze Romper slit detail for n:Philanthropy Breeze Romper

n:Philanthropy Breeze Romper in Heather Grey, size S - Cost to Keep: $148.00

Other than being pretty pricey for a romper, this is clearly way too small for me. Jasmin sent a size small (by mistake?) and even though I knew it wouldn't fit, I really loved this romper and wanted to try it. I could probably go to a size L but then I'm guessing the top would be way too baggy. The trouble with "exchanging" this for another size is that I will get charged for it when they receive it, so then if the other size doesn't work, I'd have to return it again and that's a whole process I don't want to deal with. Also note that while you can return your trunk to your local Nordstrom, you can't exchange sizes there because they have separate inventory than Trunk Club. Booooo! Back to the details- this romper is insanely soft and comfy and I felt like I was wearing pajamas... although tight ones. I didn't notice the slit detail on the front in the photos so when I got it, I was delighted because I think it looks cool. The keyhole at the back, drawstring, and back pockets also make this romper a winner, but I think I'll have to try a larger size on in person to see if it's worth the price tag.

Outfit 1 front of Free People Rumors Denim Jacket sleeve detail for Free People Rumors Denim Jacket back of Free People Rumors Denim Jacket

Free People Rumors Denim Jacket, size S - Cost to Keep: $98.00

I told Jasmin that I love jean jackets and that even though I own one already, it was a bit ratty and I wouldn't mind trying others. This one is ok, but I don't love it. It seems a little too cropped for my tastes and although I love the seam detail on the one arm, I think the light wash kind of bothers me. Nice, but I'll pass on this one.

front of Treasure & Bond Rolled Sleeve Tee sleeve detail for Treasure & Bond Rolled Sleeve Tee

Treasure & Bond Rolled Sleeve Tee in Heather Grey, size M - Cost to Keep: $49.00

I wanted badly to love this ultra-soft heather grey oversized tee because it is RIGHT up my alley, but in the end, the scoop neck was just too much and left me feeling a bit Flashdance-y. If the neck was smaller and didn't hang off of my shoulder, this baby would be all mine because I love the rolled sleeves, oversized fit, and the fact that it's basically a lightweight sweatshirt.

Caslon Twill Shorts back of Caslon Twill Shorts

Caslon Twill Shorts in Black, size M - Cost to Keep: $49.00

I need shorts desperately so Jasmin sent a couple pairs for me to try. I'm very much feeling these twill shorts with the elastic waist and drawstring tie, but they are just a bit too tight. I usually stick to a large on bottoms, so I'd want to try these one size up. There are pockets in the front and back which I love and they're super lightweight which is perfect for summer. These are another pair I'll have to hunt down at my local Nordstrom to try.

Outfit 3 Topshop Oversized Denim Jacket detail for Topshop Oversized Denim Jacket back of Topshop Oversized Denim Jacket

Topshop Oversized Denim Jacket, size 6 - Cost to Keep: $90.00

I. Love. This. Jean. Jacket. Again, oversized wins me over and the washed black color is perfect for me! There are two front slit pockets, 2 buttoned breast pockets, and it even has inner pockets (which I use all the time in my other jean jacket for my phone or wallet). Like the dress, I don't think these pics do the jacket justice, mainly because I don't love it with shorts. I should have taken a pic with jeans, but alas did not. It's a little on the pricey side, but I decided to treat myself (especially since the dress I wanted to keep ended up being on sale). Can't wait to pop some enamel pins and/or a patch on this baby to customize it.

Madewell V-Neck Pocket Tee pocket detail for Madewell V-Neck Pocket Tee hem detail for Madewell V-Neck Pocket Tee

Madewell V-Neck Pocket Tee, size M - Cost to Keep: $24.50

When I saw this in my trunk before it shipped, I asked if it came in black instead of red and Jasmin told me about a brand new feature where I can swap the color myself while reviewing my trunk. Very cool! Unfortunately, the shirt with black stripes was not available for some reason. I still thought I'd give it a shot. This shirt fits me really nicely and is mega-soft! The v-neck isn't too deep and overall I really like it! I know I'll never wear this orangey-red color though so this is another one I'll have to stalk at Madewell or Nordstrom.

Outfit 2 Nordstrom Signature Striped Scoop Neck Tee detail of Nordstrom Signature Striped Scoop Neck Tee

Nordstrom Signature Striped Scoop Neck Tee, size M - Cost to Keep: $79.00

This shirt looks pretty cute when tucked in, but it's quite fitted and I feel more comfortable in loose-fitting tees. The material is really stretchy too which can be a good thing but also means it's clingy. I like the stripes and I'm sort of on the fence about the length of the sleeves, but the scoop neck of this one just seems too... I don't know.. girly for me? That sounds stupid, I know, but I clearly have some issues with scoop necks that I need to explore. Also- $79.00 seems a bit much for a Nordstrom brand top.

Levi's 501 Denim Shorts gap in back of Levi's 501 Denim Shorts detail for Levi's 501 Denim Shorts

Levi's 501 Denim Shorts in Silverlake, size 31 - Cost to Keep: $69.50

I had high hopes for these Levi's shorts since, as I mentioned, I need some for the summer. I like the wash, raw hem, and slight distress of these. I'm miffed because I think they look good in the photos but they just fit my body really poorly. First, there was the dreaded huuuge waist gap in the back because I have a bubble butt. The front of the legs was also really tight against my thighs even though the back was loose. Just a bad fit for my bod all around. Ah well.

J Crew Highrise Toothpick Jeans detail of front of J Crew Highrise Toothpick Jeans back of J Crew Highrise Toothpick Jeans

J.Crew Highrise Toothpick Jeans in Solano Wash, size 28 - Cost to Keep: $115.00 (on sale for $69.00)

So, Jasmin sent these in a 28, I think by accident? Since I normally wear (at least) a 31 waist, there was no way these were getting onto my body. I've tried J Crew jeans in the past though and they just don't seem to fit me well. I do like the wash, rise, and cut of these jeans though. Bummer that they were the wrong size, also because they are 40% off right now!

Verdict: This month's Trunk Club was really well done by my stylist and all of it was totally my style and looked like it had been plucked from my closet! The only bummer is that the sizing was all over the place. Jasmin and I had discussed her sending multiple sizes but she only sent me one of each this time. I'll have to remind her moving forward because a lot of this stuff was so close to being kept! Even though it may seem kind of boring, I'm glad to only be getting clothes that fit my black/white/grey/denim color palette (save that red striped shirt). My goal this year is to find solid classic staple pieces for my wardrobe that are well made instead of buying more cheaper clothing that will be out of style by next year.

To Wrap Up:

Can you still get this box if you sign up today? Trunk Club will be a totally different experience for each person, so it's doubtful you'll get the same items I did.  Sign up today to see what happens!

Value Breakdown: The total retail value of the 12 items inside is $897.50 with an average of $74.79 per item. I ended up keeping the oversized black jean jacket ($90.00) and the dress (sale price: $38.86), so using the $25.00 credit that I would have lost otherwise, I paid $103.86 (or $128.86 if you include that $25.00 styling fee).

Check out all of our Trunk Club reviews and the Women's Clothing Subscription Box Directory!

Keep Track of Your Subscriptions: Add this box to your subscription list or wishlist!

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Trunk Club is Nordstrom’s online personal styling service for women and men priced at $25 per month (which gets applied towards any items you choose to keep). When you sign up, you provide Nordstrom Trunk Club with your sizing, preferences, and budget, and the subscription service then matches yo... read more.

Marne Orenich
Marne Orenich
Marne is a lipstick connoisseur, record collector, and twice over cat mom. She loves discovering new clean beauty brands and has quite the collection of beautifully packaged serums and moisturizers.

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23 comments

Jillian

I had a miserable experience with Trunk Club this week. I read your review and thought I’d give it a try. I also had the “bot-like” interview with someone. I was VERY detailed about what I was looking for. I linked my Pinterest fashion board. An easy floral dress, some great shorts, a belt, some sandals with a low heel. I said I was very into florals and I really love bright colors particularly blush and tangerine. I also said for every clothing type that I would do the $50-$100 range. I saw your trunk and thought the prices would be mostly doable. Not so much. $178 jeans, $115 shorts, $138 sandals….2 floral pieces, one of which had a lot of strong graphic lines. Other than that, no colors, a sweater, and not a whole lot in the price range I specified. I rejected the trunk. I make $50,000 a year and pay back college loans. I don’t spend $178 on jeans EVER. I thought I had made that abundantly clear in the extensive interview process. I’m so disappointed. I haven’t had very good experiences with any of the clothing subscriptions except Golden Tote. And when I did have fit/style problems they jumped right on it and sent me something else and reimbursed me for the return shipping.

You were adorable in the romper.

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jaq

That romper looks fantastic on you and I really like how it sets off your tattoo. It is overpriced though…ask to try some others!

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Lea

I think you rocked the heck out of that romper. It looked super cute on you. You looked amazing in everything else too but the romper was nicER. Thanks for the review.

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Marne Orenich

You’re too sweet, Lea! I think it was just too tight for my tastes though. A size or two up would make it way more comfortable.

Also LOL @Robyn!

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Robyn

I agree, I saw that romper pic and thought damnnnn, sizzle.

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Jen

Wish I had the bubble butt problem😊😂

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Marne Orenich

A blessing and a curse! *shakes fist at sky*

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Michelle Bross

You and me both!

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Joelle

I know you said the red stripe shirt is out of your color zone, but I thought it looked really nice on you. It seemed pretty flattering in the pictures, coloring and cut.

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Marne Orenich

Thanks, Joelle! I really love the fit and shirt overall, I just love my black and white comfort zone. 🙂

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C. Wilson

I tried Trunk Club for the first time this month. I spent a long time online answer a survey about myself and my preferences. A stylist then messaged me and he surveyed me again. This was very time consuming and it almost felt like he was a bot with automatic responses. I was then matched with my stylist who sent me an email and I reviewed my recommendations. I selected the options within the required time. It took a couple of weeks to receive my box. I was disappointed to find every garment was the wrong size. I I gave my feedback. To return the items, UPS picks up your box between 8am-6pm. You are asked not to leave the box alone. I spent a lot of time with this process; online, surveys, chosing items and waiting. I wanted a couple of well put together outfits and just ended up with time wasted and out $25.00.

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Marne Orenich

The process does seem involved enough that the styles and sizes should be pretty close, right? But then again, all brands have totally different sizing so I get that there will be some misses. I don’t mind answering lots of questions and chatting with my stylist, but I agree that is a lot!

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Carrie

Love the black dress on you. I find I typically do well with Trunk Club but not during late spring and summer where the clothes just seem too flimsy to justify the cost and everything has cut outs, raw hems, is sleeveless, or has low or droopy necklines (things I won’t wear). Same issue with Stitch Fix though I feel Trunk Club is higher quality.

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Erin

It seems strange that your stylist sent so many items in sizes that were too small. That’s a lot of “mistakes”. However, you are rocking everything and I loved seeing each outfit on.

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Kelebilemang

Marne, hank you for the well-written review! I enjoyed reading your very honest account of the different pieces. I have been watching this box for the last two years but I wanted to lose my baby weight first. I’m down 20 pounds but I feel like I want to lose another 10 before buying pricy pieces. I started a new job two weeks ago and I’m in desperate need of some good solid work clothes that will last me longer than a couple seasons.

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Marne Orenich

You are very welcome! Congrats on getting close to your goal (as well as having a baby)! It makes sense that you want to wait to spend $ on nicer pieces. Congrats on the new job too! Hope you get to do some shopping soon!

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Kelebilemang

Marne, thank you for the well-written review! I enjoyed reading your very honest account of the different pieces. I have been watching this box for the last two years but I wanted to lose my baby weight first. I’m down 20 pounds but I feel like I want to lose another 10 before buying pricy pieces. I started a new job two weeks ago and I’m in desperate need of some good solid work clothes that will last me longer than a couple seasons.

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Diana

That black dress looks gorgeous on you! I’m so tempted to try this sub box!

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Rhenn

How long have you been getting trunk club? Your stylist seems to send a lot of things in the wrong size. Especially for such an expensive box, it seems really careless. And you essentially have to pay for her mistakes/carelessness, as there is a return/ exchange fee. Maybe they should implement a system where you send them your measurements or something. But from your last few reviews, it really seems like Jasmine doesn’t give a crap.

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Marne Orenich

Hey Rhenn! This is my third month getting Trunk Club. As ks mentioned, there aren’t return fees, just the $25 styling fee (that will be applied to anything I keep). It is definitely a bummer that my stylist sent some wrong sizes, but I’m hoping it won’t happen moving forward. I have to double check with her to see if she’s able to send multiple sizes in the future to cut down on that.

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ks

There isn’t a return/exchange fee. All returns and exchanges are 100% free.

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ks

Your stylist did a great job. There are a few pieces I’m contemplating for myself.

Regarding sizing, I was under impression that they can’t send out multiple sizes out because of their easy exchange program. Also, I wasn’t charged when I exchanged a size until I checked out with the new size. It’s extremely hassle-free and took me just a couple of clicks online. They treated my exchange as a new trunk and had I not kept it, I wouldn’t have been charged.

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Marne Orenich

Hmmm- I will have to look into this closer and get a solid answer. I could have sworn Jasmin said she could send multiple sizes, but of course, she hasn’t yet. I also recall reading a block of text in my trunk when I chose to “exchange” something saying that I would be charged for the new size before they sent it out. Will follow up when I know for sure! Thanks for all the info!

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