A Review of 12 FRAME Pieces

A Review of 12 FRAME Pieces

When we talk about FRAME, our review team immediately thinks of two things: that perfect “effortless chic” California vibe and jeans that are supposed to be life-changing. But as a group that professionally analyzes high-end fashion, we always have to ask: Is the quality really worth the astronomical price tag?

Today, we’re not just looking at the label. We’re giving our brutally honest take on 12 pieces from their collection. We’re dissecting each item—from denim and knits to silk and partywear—to see what’s a worthy investment and what’s just a waste of money.

12 FRAME Product Review Summary

Quick Review: 12 FRAME Products

A quick pro/con summary for 12 premium items to help you shop smarter.

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links.
Product Name Pros Cons
THE OPEN KNIT CARDI Very chic, unique design Fragile, snags easily
THE KEYHOLE TOP – CABERNET Elegant color, subtle cut-out High price for a tee
THE KEYHOLE TOP – BLACK Very versatile, flattering Absurd price for the value
THE LOFTY CROCHET CARDI Super warm, luxurious feel Expensive, slightly bulky
LÈ SLIM PALAZZO CROP Modern fit, very flattering Crop length can be tricky
THE STRAIGHT TROUSER Classic, super versatile staple Premium price for basics
THE PIXIE RODEO Amazing leg-lengthening effect Usually requires tailoring
THE DECO EYELET TOP Intricate lace, unique look Sheer, needs underpinning
THE CASHMERE SAILOR SWEATER Unique sailor collar design Thin material for the price
THE SILK CAPE BLOUSE – CREAM Elegant 2-in-1 silk design Cream silk is hard to maintain
THE SILK CAPE BLOUSE – CABERNET Stunning color, sophisticated Dry clean only
THE EMBELLISHED SKIRT Perfect for high-end parties Very limited versatility

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1. FRAME – THE OPEN KNIT CARDI – BLACK ($428.00*)

FRAME - THE OPEN KNIT CARDI - BLACK

The Good: This is purely a “fashion” piece, not a functional one, and it excels at its job. The open, “ladder-stitch” knit creates a very specific “rock-chic” and breezy vibe. This isn’t your grandma’s cardigan; it’s what a musician’s girlfriend wears to an after-party. Its magic lies in its ability to add texture. Imagine this layered over a simple silk slip dress, where the contrast between the delicate silk and the chunky knit feels intentional and expensive.

It also works beautifully for a grunge-luxe look over a vintage band tee and leather pants. The drape is completely unstructured, adding movement and a sense of “undone” cool to an otherwise simple outfit. It’s an “IYKYK” (If You Know, You Know) garment—those who get it will see it as a high-fashion layering tool, not a source of warmth.

The Bad: A price tag over $400 is staggering for a sweater that offers zero warmth. More importantly, it looks incredibly fragile. We can just picture it snagging on jewelry, a purse zipper, or even the corner of a table. This is a “handle with care” item, not a “wear every day” item.

Our Advice:

  • You should consider buying this IF: You are a true fashion enthusiast who lives for layering, understands that some clothes are “art,” and has a budget that allows for situational, high-impact pieces. If your style icons are Kate Moss or Zoë Kravitz, this will speak your language.
  • You should reconsider IF: You are a practical shopper looking for a piece that provides warmth, durability, and a good cost-per-wear. If the thought of a $400+ sweater snagging on your first wear gives you heart palpitations, this is not for you.

2. FRAME – THE KEYHOLE TOP – CABERNET ($320.00*)

THE KEYHOLE TOP

The Good: This is the absolute definition of an “elevated basic.” What FRAME gets right here is the precision. The keyhole cut-out is architecturally perfect—it’s just enough to be alluring and sophisticated without ever skewing “showy” or “cheap.” It highlights the collarbone beautifully. The Cabernet color is the real star; it’s not a bright, flat red, but a deep, saturated, expensive-looking wine hue that is incredibly flattering on a wide range of skin tones, especially in fall and winter.

The fabric (likely a high-quality, substantial ribbed-knit or modal blend) feels incredible. It has weight, it sculpts the body, and it has excellent “snap-back” (elasticity), so it won’t bag out after an hour. This is the top you wear to a dinner date with trousers or to the office under a blazer to feel polished and powerful.

The Bad: Almost $320. That’s the main, and frankly, the only, drawback. It’s a long-sleeve t-shirt. No matter how premium the fabric, that price for such a minimalist design is incredibly hard to justify.

Our Advice:

  • You should consider buying this IF: You are a minimalist with a “buy less, buy better” philosophy. If you’re looking for that one perfect, sophisticated, long-sleeve top in a statement color that will last for years, this is a strong contender.
  • You should reconsider IF: You are a budget-conscious shopper who sees this and (correctly) thinks, “I could find a similar cut-out top for $50.” If you care more about the trend than the tiny nuances of fabric-feel and perfect cut, you should save your money.

3. FRAME – THE KEYHOLE TOP – BLACK ($320.00*)

THE KEYHOLE TOP

The Good: This top takes all the sophisticated architecture of its Cabernet twin but translates it into the ultimate wardrobe workhorse. The power of black makes this version even more versatile. It’s the “secret weapon” top. That perfectly placed keyhole becomes a subtle, mysterious detail—a “wait, is that…?” moment of interest on an otherwise classic black top.

This is the ultimate day-to-night piece. Paired with jeans, it’s a chic-but-casual brunch look. Tucked into a leather skirt or high-waisted silk pants, it’s instantly ready for cocktails. The quality fabric means the black is a deep, saturated, true black that won’t fade to grey after two washes, a common pitfall of cheaper basics.

The Bad: A $320 price tag for a black long-sleeve tee is, in our opinion, absurd. Because it’s such a basic (black), the price feels even more offensive than the cabernet version.

Our Advice:

  • You should consider buying this IF: You are a true capsule-wardrobe devotee and are on a quest for the perfect version of every staple. If you need that one non-boring black long-sleeve that will be the foundation of 50 different outfits, this is it.
  • You should reconsider IF: You already own several black long-sleeve tops. If you can’t, in good conscience, justify spending this much on another one, regardless of the quality, your instinct is correct. This is a luxury, not a necessity.

4. FRAME – THE LOFTY CROCHET CARDI – DARK HEATHER GREY ($750.00*)

THE LOFTY CROCHET CARDI

The Good: This is a total showstopper. You don’t just wear this cardigan; you make an entrance in it. Just looking at it, you can feel the luxury. This is a “trophy piece.” The “lofty” texture, likely from a high-end alpaca or mohair blend, gives it that fuzzy “halo” that screams cozy and expensive. The crochet isn’t a tight, delicate knit; it’s a chunky, large-scale, artisanal pattern that feels handmade and substantial.

The Dark Heather Grey is a brilliant color choice, keeping it sophisticated and versatile. This is the cardigan you wear for a weekend at a luxury ski lodge, curled up by a fire, or as a statement “coatigan” on a crisp autumn day. It’s pure, unadulterated “cozy luxury.”

The Bad: The $750 price is in the stratosphere. It’s also wildly impractical. The sweater looks heavy, bulky, and hard to move in. And the biggest issue: care. It’s 100% dry-clean only, and that chunky, open crochet knit is a snagging nightmare waiting to happen.

Our Advice:

  • You should consider buying this IF: You are a “more is more” fashion lover who wants a true statement piece that feels like a wearable, luxury blanket. If you live in a cold climate and want to invest in one spectacular “wow” knit, this is it.
  • You should reconsider IF: You are a practical person. If you need outerwear that can stand up to a daily commute, getting caught in a drizzle, or being thrown in the back of a car, this is your worst nightmare. This is for the person whose life is very, very gentle.

5. FRAME – LÈ SLIM PALAZZO CROP – RINSE ($298.00*)

FRAME - LÈ SLIM PALAZZO CROP - RINSE

The Good: This is FRAME’s DNA, and it’s where they truly shine. Their denim is famous for a reason. This isn’t your rigid, 100% cotton jean. It’s almost certainly a premium cotton-modal or cotton-tencel blend with a hint of stretch that sculpts without constricting. It feels soft, broken-in, and substantial from the very first wear. The “Slim Palazzo” cut is the perfect modern wide-leg; it’s not a comically huge tent, but a sleek, flattering column of denim.

The “Rinse” wash is key: it’s a deep, uniform indigo that looks incredibly polished, allowing these jeans to function as trousers. The crop length is perfect for the modern “ankle-centric” wardrobe, designed to show off your loafers, ankle boots, or minimalist sneakers.

The Bad: The crop length can be tricky. If you’re not tall, it can awkwardly “drown” you or make your legs look shorter. Also, dark “Rinse” denim is notorious for “bleeding” (transferring dye) in the first few washes. Be careful with white sneakers and light-colored bags!

Our Advice: This one is worth considering. This is FRAME at its best. If you’re willing to invest in one pair of “do-it-all” dark jeans and want to try the wide-leg trend in a polished, sophisticated way, this is a fantastic choice. The denim quality and flattering cut are what you pay for, and in this case, it delivers. We just recommend trying them on in-store to ensure the crop length works for your height.

6. FRAME – THE STRAIGHT TROUSER – RINSE ($375.00*)

FRAME - THE STRAIGHT TROUSER - RINSE

The Good: This is the “workhorse” jean. The “Grown-Up” jean. Where the Palazzo felt “fashion,” this feels “foundational.” The straight-leg cut is arguably the most timeless and universally flattering silhouette in existence. Again, the “Rinse” wash is what elevates this. It’s a clean, dark, uniform wash with no distressing, which makes it look less like a casual jean and more like a “denim trouser.”

This jean likely has less stretch than the Palazzo, focusing more on “structure.” It will hold its shape all day without bagging at the knees or sagging in the seat. This is the jean you wear to a smart-casual office on Friday and no one bats an eye.

The Bad: A $375 price tag is steep for such a “basic” silhouette. It lacks the “fashion” excitement of the Palazzo Crop. It’s a safe choice, but it might be too safe and boring for the money.

Our Advice:

  • You should consider buying this IF: You are a working professional or a true minimalist who needs one pair of high-quality, dark-wash jeans that can do everything—from work, to dinner, to the weekend—and will last for a decade.
  • You should reconsider IF: You are a trend-driven shopper. If you want your denim to have more “personality”—like flares, distressing, or unique washes—you will find this jean to be very, very boring for the price.

7. FRAME – THE PIXIE RODEO – NEBULA ($320.00)*

THE PIXIE RODEO

The Good: This is a leg-lengthening machine. The magic is in the “Rodeo” cut. It’s not a 1970s bell bottom; it’s a slim, subtle bootcut. It hugs the thigh, stays slim through the knee, and then kicks out just enough at the hem. This subtle flare is what performs the visual miracle: it perfectly balances the hips and creates an uninterrupted, long-legged silhouette. The “Nebula” wash is also perfect: a medium-blue, vintage-inspired wash that looks authentically “lived-in” without being ripped or artificially faded. This is the jean that gives you that effortless “model-off-duty” vibe with a t-shirt and a blazer.

The Bad: The eternal problem with any flare or bootcut: the length is critical. They are not versatile with all shoes. You will almost certainly have to pay extra to get them tailored to the exact height of your favorite boots or heels.

ur Advice:

Our Advice: Okay, let’s be perfectly clear: Buy these jeans. This is our most enthusiastic and sincere recommendation of the entire review. We now understand exactly why this jean is constantly sold out and all over our social feeds. It’s not just hype; it’s a truly transformative piece of denim.

The “Good” section above is not an exaggeration; it’s a fact. This jean is a “leg-lengthening machine.” It’s one of the best-value items in the collection because it delivers a tangible, visible, “wow” result that absolutely justifies the price.

Now, about the “Bad” point—the length. Let’s reframe that. This is not a flaw; it’s a standard feature of all high-end bootcut jeans. The fact that the length is critical is why they look so incredible when done right. Do not let this deter you.

Consider the tailoring cost (usually $20-$30) not as a “problem,” but as the final, essential step to unlocking the jean’s full magic. Getting these hemmed to the exact height of your favorite boot is what creates that flawless, model-off-duty silhouette.

This is what FRAME does best. It’s a 10/10 from the entire team. This is the one. We highly recommend it.

8. FRAME – THE DECO EYELET TOP – BLACK ($428.00*)

THE DECO EYELET TOP

The Good: This is genuinely intricate. This isn’t your sweet, pastoral, grandma’s eyelet. The “Deco” pattern suggests an Art Deco, geometric inspiration, which makes it feel much more modern and sharp. By rendering it in black, FRAME removes all the “sweetness” and makes it sophisticated, edgy, and mysterious.

It’s a statement piece that plays with “conceal and reveal.” The fabric is likely a crisp, high-quality cotton that holds its structure. This is a stunning top for a summer evening out, pairing beautifully with white linen pants for contrast or, for a killer monochrome look, slim black trousers.

The Bad: Over $400 for a short-sleeve top is a lot. It’s also not very practical: being 100% eyelet, it requires a specific camisole or bralette underneath. Delicate lace-like fabrics are also prone to tearing.

Our Advice:

  • You should consider buying this IF: You are a fashion lover with a romantic, gothic, or “vintage-with-a-twist” streak. If you’re looking for a unique, intricate summer top that isn’t just another t-shirt, this is a work of art.
  • You should reconsider IF: You are a low-maintenance person. If you hate having to fuss with special “underpinnings” (like strapless bras or layering camisoles) or if you’re tough on your clothes, you will find this too delicate and fussy for the price.

9. FRAME – THE CASHMERE SAILOR SWEATER – PINK SAND MULTI ($535.00*)

THE CASHMERE SAILOR SWEATER

The Good: This design has personality. In a sea of boring crewnecks, the “sailor” collar is a brilliant, playful, preppy twist on a luxury staple. The V-neck and button placket keep it from feeling costume-y and allow for layering. The “Pink Sand” color is beautiful—a soft, muted, feminine hue that looks incredibly expensive.

And, of course, the feel of 100% cashmere (assuming it’s high-quality) is cloud-like. It’s soft, lightweight-yet-warm, and feels incredible against the skin. This is a sweater for someone who doesn’t want to look like everyone else.

The Bad: The $535 price. Our biggest fear (and a common complaint with “fashion” cashmere) is that it will be paper-thin and semi-sheer. For this price, we expect a substantial, cozy, warm knit, not something flimsy. It also requires delicate hand-washing or dry-cleaning.

Our Advice:

  • You should consider buying this IF: You love a “preppy with a twist” or “novelty” aesthetic. If you’re willing to pay a premium for a unique design in cashmere, and you’re buying it more for the look than for heavy-duty warmth, you’ll love it.
  • You should reconsider IF: You are a cashmere purist. If you value ply-count, thickness, and durability above all, and you would be deeply disappointed by a “fashion-weight” knit for this price, you should probably stick to a more traditional brand. This is a “risky” buy, sight-unseen.

10. FRAME – THE SILK CAPE BLOUSE – CREAM ($535.00*)

The Good: This is a “smart” design—no, it’s a genius design. It’s transformative, modular fashion. It’s two pieces in one. First, you get a perfectly cut, 100% silk sleeveless shell top in a gorgeous cream. This by itself is a high-quality, timeless staple you can wear to the office for years.

But then you add the second piece: the dramatic, floor-sweeping cape that attaches for the evening. This is what you wear to a wedding, a gala, or a high-end art opening. It’s pure, flowing, “Old Hollywood” glamour. The “Cream” color is ethereal, angelic, and impossibly chic. It’s a true “wow” piece.

The Bad: “Cream” + “100% Silk” = a high-anxiety garment. It will show every tiny spill. It will wrinkle if you look at it wrong. It is 100% dry-clean only. The cape, while beautiful, could also be fussy and get in the way (imagine trying to eat dinner).

Our Advice:

  • You should consider buying this IF: You have a major formal event on your calendar (like your own rehearsal dinner, a black-tie wedding, or a big awards ceremony) and you want a ‘wow’ piece that is sophisticated and unforgettable.
  • You should reconsider IF: You are a ‘low-key’ person, a messy eater, a red wine drinker, or anyone who gets stressed out by high-maintenance, fragile, light-colored clothing. This piece will own you, you won’t own it.

11. FRAME – THE SILK CAPE BLOUSE – CABERNET ($535.00*)

THE SILK CAPE BLOUSE

The Good: This is the smart choice. This version takes all the glamour of its cream twin—the same transformative 2-in-1 design, the same luxurious 100% silk drape, the same “wow” factor from the cape—but it removes the biggest con: stain anxiety. The “Cabernet” color is not just stunning; it’s practical. It’s a deep, rich, powerful color that will easily hide minor spills.

This color feels less “angelic” and more “royal.” It’s a statement of pure confidence. You get all the high-fashion drama with none of the high-stakes panic. This is how you do practical glamour.

The Bad: It’s still 100% silk, so it will still wrinkle and require dry-cleaning. The cape might still be a bit fussy in a crowded room.

Our Advice: Buy this one. This is a “yes” from us. If you loved the idea of the cream blouse but were terrified of the upkeep, this is your answer. It’s the far superior, smarter, and more practical choice. For a formal event, this is a confident, glamorous, and intelligent statement piece that you can actually enjoy wearing.

12. FRAME – THE EMBELLISHED SKIRT – BLACK ($428.00*)

THE EMBELLISHED SKIRT

The Good: This is a “party bomb,” pure and simple. It’s your New Year’s Eve, bachelorette party, “look at me” skirt. It is pure, unapologetic fun. The embellishments (beads, sequins, or crystals) look dense and “liquid-like,” designed to catch the light from every single angle. It’s a piece of “joyful fashion.”

You don’t wear this to be subtle. You wear this for the instant confidence boost it gives you. It’s the centerpiece of any outfit; all you need is a simple black top and heels, and you are the party.

The Bad: The versatility is zero. This is the definition of a “wear once” item. It’s likely very heavy. The beads and sequins can fall off, snag other fabrics (like your tights!), and be incredibly uncomfortable to sit on.

Our Advice:

  • You should consider buying this IF: You are a true extrovert, love the nightlife, and believe your closet needs a few spectacular, fun, “just-for-joy” pieces. If you have a big celebration coming up, this is a knockout.
  • You should reconsider IF: You are a practical shopper who calculates “cost-per-wear.” If you would feel guilty buying something you can only wear a few times a year, this is a terrible investment. This money is better spent on a timeless Little Black Dress.

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Our Final Verdict

After breaking down all 12 pieces, our team’s consensus is clear: FRAME’s core strength remains its Jeans. That is still the safest and, in our opinion, best place to invest your money in this brand (especially the Pixie Rodeo or Lè Slim Palazzo). Their denim provides a tangible, wearable benefit in fit and feel. When you move into their “fashion” items—the knits, silks, and especially the basic tees—the value proposition becomes much blurrier. The prices become incredibly inflated, and you are paying almost entirely for the design and the brand name rather than for a proportional increase in quality. Items like The Keyhole Top ($320) or The Lofty Crochet Cardi ($750) are not “scams,” but they are for a very specific, niche consumer: one who values novelty and a specific aesthetic far more than they value price or practicality. FRAME isn’t a brand for the casual shopper; it’s for an intentional one.

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FRAME Review – FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

FRAME is worth the price if you invest in their core products, especially their high-quality, flattering denim like the Pixie Rodeo jeans. However, some basic items like t-shirts are considered very expensive for their type.

FRAME is best known for its premium denim jeans, particularly bootcut and palazzo styles that offer a very flattering, leg-lengthening fit. They are a staple of the “effortless chic” California style.

The best FRAME jeans to buy are The Pixie Rodeo (a slim bootcut) for its amazing leg-lengthening effect, and The Lè Slim Palazzo Crop for a modern, flattering wide-leg fit.

The two most recommended items are The Pixie Rodeo jean for its incredible fit, and The Silk Cape Blouse in Cabernet for its smart, 2-in-1 versatile design.

The main cons are the high price point, especially for basic items. Some delicate pieces, like the open-knit cardigans, can be fragile, and items like silk blouses require expensive dry cleaning.

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