Something New: cabi
I’ll admit, I’ve been curious about cabi clothing for a while. I kept seeing cute looks featuring their pieces on Pinterest and Instagram, as well as from Alison at Wardrobe Oxygen. Last month they contacted me and asked if I’d like to attend their Spring fashion show, which was held last week as part of their cabiScoop event in downtown Los Angeles.
My Cabi Look
They also offered to provide an outfit from their Fall collection to wear to the event, and sent several things for me to try. I selected this cardigan, blouse and jeans (all gifted). The long cardigan has a lovely, swingy shape, and the sheer blouse is really pretty. (I’m wearing this camisole underneath.) Overall, I was quite impressed with the quality and design details. The fall styles are no longer available online, but the Spring collection has some similar items.
I’ll have more about the fashion show (spoiler: it was a BLAST!) and the Spring collection in another post soon. Cabi is sold online and also through their network of stylists. You can go here to be connected to a stylist.
The silver and crystal layered necklace is from the French Kande Holiday 2018 collection. This one features “black diamond” Swarovski crystals, and I customized with one of my favorite medallions when I placed the order. Many French Kande styles now allow this option, just look for the “Change Medallion” button.
The French Kande “Mabillon” Spring collection is now online and is so gorgeous! I really love the Aquamarine Mix (my birthstone!). It would look great against that floral blouse, I’m thinking…
But this Matte Vert Jade is really stunning too… 🤔
I’m getting very attached to these Cabi jeans. This is a straight-leg style, and yes, I had them shortened by a couple of inches. They’re very comfortable, and a nice fit for me. The Spring collection includes a few denim styles as well.
The white boots have proven surprisingly versatile, and I really like how they “freshen” a cool-weather look. These are also water-resistant, and now on sale! (Several other colors available too.) I wore these for hours on my feet at the Cabi event, and they were as comfortable at the end of the day as at the beginning.
See how I previously styled these boots HERE and HERE.
Have you discovered any new brands lately that you like?
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Glad to see you featuring Cabi. I started purchasing pieces from Cabi about 15 years ago when a good friend started selling for them. Best thing about Cabi clothes: you can purchase a piece now that will go with something you bought years ago! I also love, love, their jeans. The fit is amazing, and as you say, “so comfortable.”
I, too, have worn CAbi for years. At least 1/2 my closet is CAbi. Love them, fabric is excellent and lasts for years. As she said, items over seasons work together really well. Classic, modern styling. One of the great things is the back view of tops have special details. You look good coming and going!
Cabi is a pyramid scheme. The founders at the top make money by insisting that the “stylists” (aka sales people) buy a certain amount of their product. This encourages over-consumption by desperate women trying to earn money in a system that is stacked against them. I encourage you to learn more about the exploitative nature of this business, and how MLM schemes like Cabi ruin personal finances, relationships, and the environment. Then ask yourself if this is really something you want to promote.
I’ve been a stylist with cabi for over 14 years. It is NOT a pyramid scheme.
Hi Julie, here’s my understanding about how cabi works. First, it IS a multi-level marketing business model. The stylists/sales people purchase a sample of each piece in the collection to show at the parties. They don’t have to purchase more than that, and can opt out at any time. They can also sell those sample pieces at the end of a season. They can opt out at any time. They make a commission based on sales, rather than the number of people they recruit. A couple of cabi stylists have commented here, and have disputed the characterization as a “pyramid scheme.”
Please educate yourself before making a post like this. Your incorrect information may cause irreparable damage to the profession, the company and the salespeople. I have been in multi level marketing for 28 years and I have hundreds of customers who depend on me for honest, ethical representation of my company–no different than if I worked for “corporate America.” The difference is I am not salaried and I control of my own schedule. I am not a Cabi stylist, and have never purchased their fashions, but statements like yours are false and misleading! First of all, “Pyramid Schemes” are illegal. Secondly, companies who sell thru a multi-level marketing structure offer a substantial earning opportunity when the individual stylists work the plan. With all due respect, get your facts straight. Thank you for bringing this topic to everyone’s attention.
I’ve been wondering if cabi would make it to your radar! I was a cabi skeptic for years, but about three years ago I became an addict. Saves me a lot of shopping time in the big picture. Great career wardrobe options, and so SO comfortable for work and travel. About 80% of my wardrobe is now cabi (plus some nice Eileen Fisher pieces that your blog encouraged me to invest in). One thing I really appreciate is how well the pieces coordinate – even between/among seasons. The navy blue pieces I purchase in Spring 2016 – which still look great – match all navy in the line even since. I also appreciate that the key players, and money makers, are women. Looking forward to more posts!
You look great in that outfit! I read a little about the Cabi store and found it fascinating. Signed up for the newsletter. Thanks!
Lovely outfit. I wouldn’t have thought about the cardigan with that blouse, but it really works. Been drooling over French Kande for some time now, although I could open a jewelry STORE with what all I currently own! Thanks for a fun post from somewhere not covered with ice and snow (like it is here).
You know your style. This is not it. This is about selling.
And pyramid schemes rate with tested on animals.
‘Cute’ does not work. (except for babies and puppies)
Chic and tailored does.
the bit of research I’ve had time to do on cabi is not very positive. To me, any firm giving sales persons fakey job titles such as associates or stylists is a red flag and a subterfuge to wiggle out of contractual obligations.
Cardigan looks like too much fabric for your height and ,I’m sorry, I think the white boots are too “go-go”. But you love them and they are comfy so that’s what matters.
Interested in follow up to these “ pyramid scheme “ comments.
Also I see no sizing charts on Cabi website. I would only be interested in ordering online.
My experience with the pieces I tried on was that most run a skosh large. I sized down in the jeans, took my usual size in the cardigan (would have gone smaller had it been available) and my usual size in the top (S). I also tried three jackets, and found that one size down from my usual was best fit.
Thanks that’s helpful!
I’m so glad that you enjoyed the fashion show. I love cabi and have been a hostess for 9 years! The clothes are quality and timeless in my opinion. I’ll look forward to reading your thoughts on the Spring line.
Not crazy about that cardigan on you–it’s just too big–or, and this is probably the problem–it hits at the widest part of your calf, which does no one any favors, even though you can’t see the calf here. The proportion is just wrong, especially on us short folks.
Thank you to those who provided info about Cabi. I’d not heard of them before.
Love the blouse, jeans and boots on you Susan and am adding the Matte Vert Jade French Kande necklace to my wish list. I know a sweet and well-dressed woman that sells Cabi and loves what she does. I have purchased a couple of Cabi pieces from her over the years and still wear them.
A brand that I have recently come across is VETTA, out of NYC. I love their styles and their capsule wardrobes ( they show how to get about 25 looks from each capsule which consists of about 6 pieces ). They use sustainable fabrics and are a small company. I have not tried their clothing yet because I live in Canada and would have to pay duty plus about 40% more due to the dollar difference. Maybe l’ll order some pieces when on an extended stay in the US.
I love the white boots on you. They “bookend” your hair, a concept I learned about from Angie’s blog at You Look Fab.
I didn’t realize you were there! Several months ago I put your name forward as a blogger they should be paying attention to.
I became a stylist a year ago after hosting shows for several years. As to those talking about it being a racket, that does not match my experience. I’ve recouped my investment and I’m profiting.
Thanks so much, Karen!
I think this entire outfit works very well on you, Susan. One of my close friends is a “cabi addict”, so I’ve purchased a few pieces over the years. My favorite pair of cropped jeans were from last year’s spring/summer line, they fit like they were custom made. I agree on the booties, between your light hair, handbag and those it makes a nice continuous line. Thanks for featuring FK. I love the pieces I have, but I find their website is so hard to see unless you click on the item and zoom in. I wish they had larger photos for us visually impaired!
I’m so glad you got to go to the cabi fashion show! I love how you put such a Susan spin on these pieces. I too find the quality excellent, though often wish they had petites. I can’t wait to hear which pieces from their spring line you like best!
How do those Via Spiga boots run size-wise? Are they TTS?
Yes, they’re TTS.
Thanks! Just scored the last 9.5.
FYI: The Nordstrom size guide does not match the one on the Via Spiga website. I see this so often with European brands. Very frustrating. I wear an EU40 or 41, depending upon width and the toe box. Fingers crossed they’re not too big.
I love Cabi clothes ~ I have a skirt that is reversible that is 10+ years old! Great quality
Love the white boots!
Just read an article in yesterday’s Washington Post – “How MLMs Are Hurting Female Friendships”. According to the Federal Trade Commision <1 percent of MLM participants will make a profit. Plenty of better ways to buy a blouse, IMO. -Lily
What about that lovely handbag? I really like it!
Thanks! It’s the Pearl from Lo and Sons. https://www.loandsons.com/products/pearl-saffiano-leather-light-grey-gold-grey I’ve had this one for a couple of years and haven’t used it much…will have to remedy that!
I also read the Washington Post article, and will not buy Cabi clothing. The necklaces and the white boots are great. Your blog is one of my favorites and I love your casual but polished look. You introduced me to Eileen Fisher, whom I could not live without. Sorry if I seem negative.
I agree with Patrish, it is not your style!
Thank you for this post. I love the way you styled the outfit. When I see the clothes online, every top is styled as a tucked in look with slim fitting jeans. Having the top out, and the long cardi over is definitely my style. Cabi should show some tops not tucked in.
Ha! My go-go boots are back! I loved my white boots in the 70s. I’m afraid their reputation as “go-go” kept them from being fashionable for a few decades after that.
I’m one of the Cabi addicts! I have that same blouse and love it! I didn’t buy the sweater, but wish I would have. I love the quality, style and versatility. Like others have mentioned, pieces transition from one season to the next and coordinate year after year without looking outdated like so many other clothing lines do. Most pieces travel well and look as new today, after many washings as they did when I bought them. Also, for those of us who don’t live close to major shopping areas, there are no places left to shop for clothing in our communities. I do little shopping on line as I like to try things on. I should also mention how fabulous Cabi jewelry and scarves are! Cabi also has a few outlet stores and all the profits from those stores go to charity. As for the pyramid scheme, I think it would be hard to make this into a bread and butter job, like any other home marketing venture. My stylist sells off her line at a discount every season and that’s what she buys her new line with. She’s in her 70s and has been a stylist for over 15 years in 3 different cities. She loves it and says she could easily walk away any time she wants with no regrets.
I’m another Cabi fan. Their ponte fabric is terrific! Love the tailoring and linings on the jackets, too. Purchasing Cabi has always been a positive experience for me.
I really like that duster. I’ve been reading Ali’s posts about Cabi too and been very curious. That Bee medallion has my name all over it.
I’ve loved almost every outfit you have featured on your blog since I started following you. This outfit is my least favourite.
I’ve been a Cabi follower for several years and find the quality of their clothes very good, some of their prices I find a bit steep but quality is worth paying more. Their sizes tend to run larger and I need to size down. There seems to be little standardized sizes, each company has their own specifics or it’s hit or miss.
Your white boots are great!!
Sorry, but the whole “outfit” is honkey tonk! Not chic, not charmante! No French woman would consider it even if free. Especially, if she is on the petite side. As for French Kande, it’s too repetitive and it’s getting old fast. A tired look at a high price! Sorry, I know the truth can hurt sometimes, but it’s strictly my opinion. Very few women would benefit from this look!! Obviously, you may choose not to publish this but I urge you to reconsider. You will do all women a favor!
“Opinion” and “truth” are not interchangeable. If I don’t like something, that’s my opinion, but if someone else does like it, that’s her opinion. Which one is the “truth”? Is it not rather presumptuous to claim to speak for “all women” as if one person’s opinion is (or should be) every person’s opinion? “De gustibus non disputandum” as they say in Latin.
Let’s get back to discussing white boots…
Hello Susan. I’m curious as to why you are not responding to your readers’ comments about Cabi being a pyramid scheme.
Hi Cece, I’m gathering information to be able to respond with accuracy.
Thanks. I appreciate that!
Susan,
I bought two pairs of jeans and the duster too! I agree with sizing down to get the right fit. Not every piece is for every person and I buy the more classic/basic pieces.
BTW, there is a lot of quality discounted Cabi clothing on eBay, if you’re looking for past season pieces.
I have several friends that are/have been Cabi stylists and enjoy it and do not feel exploited. They sell off the sample/try on pieces at the end of the season.
Kathy
I am confused by some of the comments that are so opposed to this look. I find the blouse, in particular to be very flattering on you. The whole look is a little different than your usual, but there is a time and place for these softer, more traditional pieces. I have a friend who frequently hosts CABI parties, and I have been to a couple. It isn’t my favorite way to shop because I do feel some pressure to buy and the prices are high. But the few things that I have purchased have lasted and I really like them. I was concerned about the MLM aspect, but the CABI representative at the party is happy with the company, although I’m sure others have been less so. I will say that at least with CABI one gets a tangible product that has some use. I once went to an essential oil MLM party – and left feeling like I was tricked into purchasing some fairly expensive, useless essential oils.
I love cabi and have lots of it in my closet! Lucky you being invited to the Scoop and being gifted an outfit. Personally, I think it looks great on you.
What strikes me here is not whether or not the outfit looks great on you, or if your are promoting a pyramid scheme….what strikes me is that the outfit is NOT what you normally would wear. Not. At. All.
It’s getting so far outside what you have called your “sweet spot”, there are times I just can’t read the post (but I always read the comments.)
I’m a longtime reader, from way back (2007) when your budget for fashion wasn’t what it is today. Now all of your posts seem to promote always buying something NEW. In this era of overabundance (Marie Kondo’s popularity is soaring because we all have too much stuff) it would be terrific if once in awhile you could go back to your early commentaries that showed off your writing style, along with your simple formula for style in general. You are an excellent writer! I am happy for your success since I started reading your blog. You’ve come a long way from scarf tying videos! Hope you will continue to grow your audience without the pressure to keep promoting things that don’t stay true to yourself. This outfit post is not your style. I say this with admiration and gratitude for years of wonderful posts about fashion, travel, makeup, and the occasional recipe. 🙂
Thanks for reading all these years! One thing I’ve learned in my years of blogging is that I can’t please everyone. 🙂 I looked at this as an opportunity to try a brand I’d been curious about, and that many of my readers have mentioned. As I posted here, this year I’ll mostly be focusing on re-mixing items already in my wardrobe, with the occasional “shot” of something current to update.
Is Cabi that one subtle MLM? I didn’t take you for a MLMer!
I don’t work for Cabi, nor do I receive any monetary compensation from them.
I’m really happy to hear that you will be re-mixing items you already own. Knowing how to wear an item in many different ways would be so helpful to most of us. I do not like being constantly encouraged to buy new clothes to have variety, as many bloggers do… thankfully you’re not one of these.
Thanks, Cathy! Actually I’ve always done this (re-worn, re-mixed pieces in an outfit). What I’ll be doing going forward is emphasizing it more, and making a point to link back to prior outfits using the same pieces.
Seconded!
Oh, for pity’s sake, if something like an MLM ruins your friendship, you didn’t have a friendship in the first place!
I have never heard of this company, but I have had friends involved in all these sorts of things from Amway and HerbaLife to Tupperware, Party Lite , Princess House, Pampered Chef, and now I think essential oils are all the rage… some of them do very well and some get in over their heads. It is hardly the fault of the company if some can’t handle it. I know for sure I couldn’t do it, and I don’t let sales pitches sway me from doing something I know I’d hate, and would fail miserably at.
And you are so right about not being able to please everyone…in this post alone you are being raked over the coals by some for daring to step outside your comfort zone, and being chastised by others for remaining with your preferred style of jewelry. Blogging is something else I’d never be able to do!
I think you look great and I especially love the duster, which I’d probably wear with a white T-shirt, skinny jeans and pumps, or maybe even black hiking boots or Doc Martins, just to horrify the self-righteous.
Wish I could up vote this comment! Right on!
Wish I could click “like”! 🙂
No one is raking Susan over the coals here. Speaking for myself, I don’t think Susan should try to “please everyone.” When we get to this age hopefully we’ve learned to please OURSELVES, without our mother’s voices, our husband’s, etc. Getting dressed is a personal expression – unless we’re trying to make a buck at it, in which case one would wear a costume. This outfit is like a costume to Susan’s usual clean consistent style. She chooses to be a fashion blogger and sometimes that means her readers who have learned from her, will remind her of her best lessons.
Thanks arle, but I don’t feel I need to be reminded or policed. 🙂 You may think this is a “costume” and that’s certainly your prerogative, but I enjoyed wearing it. No, it’s not something I’d reach for every day, but it was a fun change and right for the occasion. And to be honest, I don’t think it’s that far outside of my usual style. Just FTR, I make no commissions from cabi, so trying their clothes was something I did to satisfy my own curiosity.
This!!! 100%
Also, we all can recognize that the shape of this long sweater is a departure from your typical look, Susan. Maybe some of us like the look, maybe some of us don’t. It’s cool to offer an opinion, but some of these opinions here are delivered in a completely rude manner.
There are a couple lovely longer, straight-line sweaters in the Spring collection. I hope we get a chance to see them on you!
As a side note, I found myself in a cabi sweater over the weekend. It’s probably from 2015 – longish, navy, some beautiful cable detailing. I brought it over to our home in Ireland a few years ago. We were just there (in Malaga now – SUN!! 🙂 and I threw it on over some black jeans. I was thrilled to remember how well it has aged and how nice it felt on.
I will also add that the cabi stylists I know don’t seem to feel pressured or stressed. They enjoy their nice little side hustle, and I LOVE that they know my taste and my body – they help me find the pieces that work so well in my life. I don’t find their prices to be out of line with department store items – I purchase a few things and strategically plan for the end of season sample sale.
Such an interesting thread…..
Also ROCK ON with the white boots, sister!!
My “This!!! 100%” was meant to be a reply to Darling Lily’s “for pity’s sake” post, which I too would love to upvote!
Pretty blouse. I like brown/blue. I’m totally fine with needing to wear a layer under a blouse. I usually wear a tank anyway!
Very nice look. The boots top it off well.
As a retired professional seamstress, I can attest to the quality of Cabi Clothing. I have been purchasing over 10 years now. I love their knit tops especially. They last much longer than anything else I have found in the stores. The jackets are tailored very well. The new high rise jeans are my go to. My consultant is very friendly, knowledgeable and businesslike. Living very far away from any real shopping, at least 4 hours away, I really enjoy the shopping experience with Cabi. I have never felt pressured to buy more than I need or want. Returns and exchanges are seamless (no pun intended). Yes it is a MLM company but not a pyramid scheme (which are illegal). Cabi does do charitable work. This is my experience and opinion. I love Cabi!
I have only been to one Cabi party, but I really enjoyed it. The stylist suggested a piece for each attendee. She chose something I would never have picked for myself (a sweater coat). that was over 5 years ago and it has been an essential in my wardrobe ever since! I think getting a good stylist would make a lot of difference to your Cabi experience, but I have several friends who sell Cabi and while they certainly don’t make a full-time living from it, they do enjoy it.
Cabi is a bit too expensive for my lifestyle, but if I had a full time job I would definitely consider buying from them more often. I think the pieces are versatile and they each have something unique to them.
Susan, thanks for trying out the Cabi event for us, even though it seems to have ignited quite a bit of passion among the readers! I always enjoy your blog.
As a UK reader, I find the discussion of this company very interesting! I rather like the introduction of the ethical aspect, although I have no idea which view is ?closer to any “truth”- purely regarding the business model. I agree that we all have opinions about clothing rather than truths. Living in the UK, I cannot buy this brand anyway, but I do not think the clothes would tempt me; they look rather ordinary but I find that, even if I do not like something, it points me towards a clearer view of what to avoid, so nothing wasted! I think grey and blue often do not produce a good enough contrast so the jacket, jeans and shirt look a little drab together. The jacket might look fab with white? Again, helps in clarifying what works for me and what doesn’t.
Susan, you are so right: no such thing as pleasing everyone all of the time!
Sara – cabi is actually available in the UK. There are just a few stylists, but it’s growing. Sounds like it’s not your thing, but just thought I would pass that on.
All the best – Ann
I agree, this is a very good look on you. The cardi is very different from what I have seen. A shame I cannot shop in the USA. And I am still thinking about the French Kande necklaces. Being a necklace lover, they so appeal to me. (I keep remembering the name as French Candle… silly me). Especially the green one is lovely.
Greetje
Thanks, Greetje!
I’ve been following for quite some time, and besides living the corporate 8-5 life, I’m a cabi stylist. Only one comment on your giving us a try: YEAH!! cabi fills a need that today’s busy women are missing–a quality product that comes TO them in their own home, on their own time. Susan, you’ll love this line. I fell in love with the convenience and clothes, then became a stylist because this company is by women and for women. Dig deeper, you’ll only find treasure. And clothes are just the beginning.
Not loving this look. I have seen cabi I like on a friend and in consignment stores but not really enough to seek out a cabi party.
I’ve worn Cabi fir years. And LOVE it. Good quality and details that are generally found in much more expensive clothing. Also I know many reps that make good money selling. Having outgoing hostess that know lots of people is the key