High on my list of brands I have wanted to revisit is VRG GRL. Their social media marketing feels compelling; almost like it’s whispering in my ear “come shop with me”. But I’ve been so hesitant since my first purchase a few years ago. Which turned out to be such a fail. It was a simple linen dress, but I was disappointed not just in the cut of the piece, but the quality of the linen too (truly terrible). But I’m conscious that first impressions don’t count for everything, and a brand can do a bunch of items very well and then others are just average (or even a total flop). Given their presence and aggressive marketing, I figured now was a good a time as any for a VRG GRL review as I was curious to see if my first impression still holds true, or if I’d find myself doing a massive about face.
I feel like it’s important to preface this review by saying that… as someone who seems to find minor niggles and inconveniences in almost anything (if you look, it’ll be there), I’ve made a point of not being as hyper critical here as I might typically be. In part, because the price point of VRG GRL is accessible, and therein lies a lot of the value. There are few brands out there that have a solid collection of chic, playful, and stylish clothing options which are affordably priced and made of natural fibres. Juggernauts like H&M et al might be able to deliver, but it’s always on a limited scale. And I suppose what’s always had me curious about brands like VRG GRL is the design. So, I’ve tried to temper my critical assessment against the value I’m expecting for the price.
Yes, there are some loose threads (easily snipped off), and yes, there are a few seams which aren’t sewn perfectly (or perhaps have had the machine run over the same spot multiple times), and this for me always raises that debate about what we’re seeking out from our clothing. Just because something has some flaws in the craftsmanship (which side note: if you’re starting out sewing, will be present in your own first attempts), doesn’t mean that it can’t or won’t stand the test of time. The question of durability is a tricky one and not at all black and white. And those are just my two cents. At the end of the day, it’s your money, and I think it’s valuable to go into a purchase knowing what to expect rather than being surprised. For me, my estimation of the brand has risen since my first (failed) purchase. Part of which comes down to being extremely considered in my choices, but also knowing what to look for.
What I was conscious of when placing my order? Fabric composition was #1 for me; I wanted to seek out pieces in natural fibres as experience has told me that they have much more longevity in my wardrobe. I also went for a colour palette that aligned with my existing closet rather than the wild card choices (despite how tempting it was), and silhouettes which I’ve had success with in the past.
With that out of the way, let’s dive into this VRG GRL review – complete with sizing recommendations and actual product measurements…
VRG GRL Yuja Wool Houndstooth Blazer
Wearing size AU6
I have a real soft spot for anything houndstooth. Even better if it’s more of a micro-sized print. I’d recently ordered this jacket from Sezane in a similar houndstooth print, but it turned out to be a dud (for me), and I felt 99.9% positive this would be a winner. This was the most expensive item I added to my order, but I thought the price was justified; perhaps even bordering on reasonable for something like this. Especially given most 100% wool jackets these days tend to set you back somewhere in the realm of $400-500 (Assembly Label tends to be one of the rare exceptions). It’s listed as having an oversized fit, and taking that into consideration, I decided size down for a slouchy, relaxed fit that didn’t overwhelm. This was the right choice, as no part of this jacket feels too “small”. Intentionally oversized instead, rather than comically. The wool exterior doesn’t have a smooth hand feel. It’s tactile, a little bit “raw”, but it doesn’t really factor in largely when wearing due to the lining – which, I will say it’s finished well on the interior, but I do wish they’d used anything other than polyester lining. Viscose even. I think it looks so good worn both with and without the belt, though if I could make a complaint, it’s that the belt is incredibly long. You need to loop it around/do a little styling sorcery to ensure it’s not flapping about around your ankles. And the beauty is that the belt doesn’t budge at all. Definitely a solid buy.
Measures 57cm underarm to underarm laid flat and is 73cm long. I would recommend sizing down in this style given how generously it is cut.
VRG GRL Willow Tee
Wearing size AU8
A VRG GRL staple and no doubt you’ve seen one of your favourite influencers styling this tee. And I can see the appeal. It’s relaxed; giving that effortless cool girl feel thanks to the slouchy fit and dropped shoulder. I think the cut is executed well, though I it took me a moment to clock the fact that there are mixed compositions depending on the colour you choose. From what I could see, only the block colour tees were made from 100% cotton. The striped version? A cotton and poly blend… I would have loved to have seen linen in there instead, as I think that would achieve the same level of drape while retaining a slightly sheer quality. I can’t say I love the way the tee feels when rubbing the fabric between my fingers, though it’s less of a focus when actually wearing the tee. Very generous sizing FYI.
Measures 70cm underarm to underarm and is 68cm long. Very oversized fit – would suggest sizing down for petites.
VRG GRL Cambell Jacket
Wearing size AU8
Okay, how fun is this?! I love a good barn jacket, and I was curious to see how this one compared. It’s 100% cotton, including cotton lining. And a subtle detail I was drawn to is the consistency between the corded collar/trim and the cotton of the jacket. The trim is on the cuffs of the sleeves (great to add some contrast through texture), the collar, and on the pockets. Zip up closure with snaps – the zipper is smooth, and it’s not too snug anywhere even when fully done up. Hits just below the hip, too. Perhaps one of the best items in my order, overall. And looks really chic styled with the next piece…
Measures 59cm underarm to underarm and is 68cm long. Fits true to size for a relaxed fit.
VRG GRL Elka Skirt
Wearing size AU8
This skirt is a piece that I would consider to be a bit of a stalwart for the brand. A foundation piece which you can expect to see reimagined in new colours and prints each season. It was the lowest priced item I ordered, but also the least complex to sew. It’s a simple bell/a-line elasticated waist mini skirt. No pockets or lining, both of which I suspect are to help keep the cost low. I was surprised to find that the cream/ivory was not fully opaque, as the web reviews would have you believe. You can easily identify the presence of the striped tee styled underneath. This isn’t a dealbreaker for me, but it does mean you have to put some thought into the styling. The elasticated waist has softness but isn’t overly elastic. Very comfortable to wear, and I was delighted to spy a long hem as it gives you some flexibility to extend the length if you wish.
Measures 34cm across the waist laid flat and unstretched, 38cm long, and there’s a 5cm allowance on the hem. Recommend sticking with your usual size.
VRG GRL Elka Top
Wearing size AU8
Most commonly seen on the website styled with the Elka Skirt, I thought this would be a chic styling option for a Sydney summer. The bow back detail is quite sweet/saccharine, but adds a point of difference. I also found myself drawn to the apron style neckline, which felt slightly reminiscent of tops I’d expect to see from a brand like Lee Mathews. This is made from 100% cotton and lined (lining composition not specified so I assume it’s also cotton?), though doesn’t feel like the most premium quality cotton ever. It’s absolutely fine. Not scratchy, but not super smooth and silky, either. The main consideration with this top is what are you wearing underneath? Best for those who have a smaller bust, or perhaps worn as more of a beach cover up in the summer.
Measures 64cm long, and 44cm underarm to underarm to the seam (there is some allowance due to tie back detail). Fits true to size.
VRG GRL Annika Shorts
Wearing size AU8
This is another style from VRG GRL which is available in a variety of colour ways – the in-house print designs are always really fun (I personally love the linen tomato-printed pair!). FYI some colours do have a slightly higher price point. The silhouette is simple but flattering. Cinched at the waist with an a-line flare out to the hip, and a decent length. The self tie means you can adjust the fit – great as I find that the waist is slightly generous, giving you the option to wear lower on the hip, or as a high-rise if you’d prefer. I opted for classic black which are 100% cotton, and unlined (note: some other colours do have added lining). Love that they have pockets too – makes the shorts a lot more practical, and I’ll say, if the difference between having pockets and not is $10, I’d pay the extra to have pockets added to the Elka Skirt I mentioned above. Overall, a nice classic style, though I do think they could have used a slightly nicer cotton poplin. I have a pair from Assembly Label which were similarly priced, but feel much smoother on the hand.
Measures 37cm across the waistband (unstretched) and 36cm long. Recommend sticking with usual size if you want flexibility to wear on the waist and on the hip, otherwise size down for a closer “high waisted” fit.
VRG GRL Delphi Maxi Skirt
Wearing size AU6
I was so excited when I spied this skirt in the new arrivals, because it’s incredibly rare to come across a pleated skirt that’s made in a natural fibre. To give a bit of context, pleated styles are often made in polyester as synthetics can hold a pleat, whereas natural fibres won’t (so you have to iron them in after each wash). The maxi length was also a draw card as I’m a bit all or nothing right now (either mini or full maxi all the way!). The cotton used is incredibly thick and weighty, which gives the skirt some serious heft – which I think also helps to drag down those pleats so that they hand nicely. Also loved that this could be styled with a belt. It does also feature a side split but I found this a little awkward in execution. It doesn’t really reveal much/any of the leg though does have the bonus of giving you a bit of air flow. I think perhaps this would have been better served with the use of a lighter weight of cotton, though I think from a construction stand point, then it wouldn’t quite have the weight for the pleats to hang as nicely as they do. Overall, very nice (though I do just wish it had pockets…)!
Measured 33cm across waist laid flat and 98.5cm long for size AU6, and 36cm across waist laid flat and 98.5cm long for the size AU8. Recommend sizing down if you want a high waisted fit.
VRG GRL Callie Mini Skirt
Wearing size AU8
The final item I added to my cart is this textured cotton mini skirt with asymmetrical hem. I loved the textural interest the frayed edges add to the piece, and it was nice again to see belt loops feature – a great way to instantly elevate a piece! The cotton in person has a bit of a raw organic quality to it. A bit more structure than some of their other cotton pieces and I was happy to see it was lined. The silver exposed zipper at the back was very smooth, and the silhouette is flattering too. A bell, a-line silhouette. No pockets, though I think the addition of them would disrupt the lines of the skirt so this isn’t a dealbreaker for me. I have to admit it didn’t wow me IRL as much as I’d expected (though this is coming from someone who doesn’t really have any gaps in their wardrobe), but it’s still really nice. The lining means that it’s fully opaque. And if you’re tossing up between this and the Elka skirt, I feel like the Callie is much better value for money.
Measures 35cm across the waist laid flat and is approx 39cm long (varies during to asymmetrical hem). Recommend going with your usual size.
