I was debating about buying this sweatshirt when I read some of the reviews. Some folks said it was too boxy or too small & to order up a size. I'm tall (5'10") & of average weight. I like to buy everything in XL because as w/ most sweatshirts, layering is crucial. Normally not one to purchase sweatshirts in the middle of summer, I received my catalog last week & was immediately smitten w/ the navy blue green striped model. I went to the local LL Bean store in my area & tried on the sweatshirt in person. I also wanted to see it w/ my own eyes because sometimes things look different in person than they do in the catalog. This sweatshirt looks AWESOME in person! I tried it on while wearing a thin, long sleeved blouse & it fit just fine. It does not look "boxy" while being worn. The zipper glides smoothly & the side hand pockets zip close for extra security! This is great to wear while bike riding or walking! Zip close pockets = NEVER losing your valuables! There's also extra details like the velvet trim on the zipper pulls that I didn't notice in the catalog, but noticed at the store. & I liked the sewn seams on the back of this sweatshirt, they give this sweatshirt a nice shape that frames your body (you won't look boyish or boxy from behind). Also, the stripes line up properly (a very important detail that's often overlooked!) The sweatshirt is VERY soft & has some decent heft to it, but its not overly bulky or heavy. Well worth the $$!
Were i tre rich, i would buy one in every color because it is one of the cosiest jackets i have ever owned and i just love it--i am saving up for my next one ASAP!!
Lining is more like fur vs fleece but I still love it, in fact had to order another one for the fall (chocolate brown). I love the details on the zipper pulls: velvet fabric!!
I had reservations about ordering this (on sale) in the middle of a Texas summer, BUT am I glad that I did, because I was able to get it in a color that evidently won't be available next season. I ordered a medium size though my usual size is small, as per other reviews. My records show that I ordered in small (different color) a few months back, and returned it without reordering. This one looks and feels fantastic! Though it's not a petite, and I am short, all I find necessary is to turn up the rib knit cuffs, and it fits like a dream, with plenty of room for layering.
