Instagram lately: sneakers style + DIY chocolate strawberries

Nike Free sneakers (also sold here) sz 6 - runs small, J.Brand jeans sz 24 (hemmed)

H&M scarf (similar - 50% off), Gap jacket (similar in petite), Talbots tee, Goyard bag

Rounding up some photos & answering questions from my Instagram lately - I don't think I've ever blogged an outfit in sneakers (except for Nick's spycam proposal photos where I was in pretty much the same outfit) but I'm reaching for them more and more outside of working out. My go-to lazy day outfit is black leggings or skinny jeans with these sneakers, which help visually lengthen the legs a bit despite being in flat shoes. And if you don't have a staple camel scarf by now, this Topshop one just went on markdown for half off with free shipping!

Ann Taylor dress c/o + necklace (on sale!), Talbots tee (similar), Manolo BB pumps

Just got this dress back from the tailor, whom I had slim the hips about an inch or so. I want to echo from my prior review it's a solid quality piece and I'm loving the subtle piping detail. It's currently on sale for 40% off with all sizes in stock, and my necklace is still available on extra clearance! There's so many layering possibilities with a classic crewneck neutral sheath dress - you can do collared shirts, long-sleeved tees like I did here, tie-neck tops, cropped sweaters, etc.

Oh my goodness, we might've over-indulged in these just a bit but they were SO good. They also make great little Valentine's Day gifts boxed up - my friends kept asking where they were from! I have a history of more Pinterest fails than successes, so if I can make these at home I'm pretty sure anyone can. Here's a few tips after my initial struggles (needed a hot shower after being covered in chocolate):

- This YouTube tutorial was my favorite! Toothpicks kept sliding off my berries, so I just hand-dipped then placed on parchment paper to harden.

- Since very few ingredients are involved, quality ones are key. Strawberries are sadly not in season here but I splurged on some juicy looking ones at WholePaycheck err Wholefoods. We had both Ghiradelli and Nestle chocolate on hand which were equally tasty.

- Make sure your berries are bone dry before dipping, since a drop of water in the melted chocolate could make it seize up. I washed mine ahead of time and laid out to pat dry on paper towels.

- Use large pieces of chocolate, or big chips or chunks found in the baking aisle for melting. I accidentally had a bag of mini chips which would not melt smoothly.

- I tried both a double boiler and microwave for melting my chocolate and they came out the same. Microwave was a lot easier so I stuck with that method. Make sure to have your power level on half and heat up in 30-second increments, stirring in between, to avoid burning your chocolate. Maintaining that silky consistency is key for easy dipping - I had to re-heat my chocolate several times whenever it started to thicken up.

- The ones that you mess up dipping are perfect for covering in nuts! Or eating immediately : )

Ending this post with Nick's colorful fruit & yogurt bowl...quite yummy even though I'm not the biggest fan of yogurt from some childhood trauma. My mom and grandparents LOVE making their own yogurt (which my friends eventually lovingly dubbed "couch yogurt"). This involves an incubation process at a lukewarm temperature, which they found the living room couch with all its cushions and throw blankets to be the perfect vehicle for. One too many times I tiredly plopped my butt down on the sofa only to find a yogurty surprise...

Prada Saffiano Cuir double bag review (and comparison to Saffiano Lux tote)

**Sale update: everything is at least 40% off this weekend at Ann Taylor, including my swing trench (fully restocked in both navy and cream!) reviewed here and piped sheath dress reviewed here. Both are made of thicker materials and nice quality, and currently available in all petite sizes!**

Prada Saffiano Cuir double bag in "Pomice" (more colors at Saks)

vs. Prada Saffiano Lux double-zip bag in "Caramel"
Ann Taylor top c/o (review) & skirt (old), navy pumps (similar), Baublebar necklace

I'm a bit clueless about the video function on our camera, and Nick's heavy sighs when I ask him to be "cameraman" (esp. when Sunday sports are on) sums up his thoughts on that topic! He "gifted" me a point-and-shoot camcorder which I took as a blatant hint. I've gotten several requests for a Prada Saffiano Cuir bag review, so figured why not test my new gadget out. Turns out I didn't record half the footage I thought I did, instead filming several close-up nostril shots of me adjusting the camera...sigh! If you want to see the various ways you can wear these bags with the adjustable shoulder strap, you can check out my older video review of the Saffiano Lux (also known as the "Galleria" line).
^ Press Play
Prada's Cuir double bag is a gorgeous & sturdy-feeling one, and has quickly become one of my most-worn handbags (see on me here, here, and here just to name a few). The Cuir line came out about two years ago, and the lack of information about it online can frustrating for researchers. For this video, I called a bunch of Prada boutiques around the country asking the same questions ... what is "saffiano" leather, what's the difference between the Saffiano Lux and Saffiano Cuir collections, and how to care for the material. The responses I got from sales associates ranged from completely clueless, to finally enthusiastic and knowledgeable-sounding (thanks Joel from the boutique at the Bellagio in Vegas : )

Biggest edit from video: while in a Prada boutique I was told my bag is called the "medium" size, and the bigger one is "large." Please see below for a comparison of my gray bag versus the bigger pink one. However, I just checked the exact webpage where I ordered my bag from at Neimans and it's listed as as "small" there. Saks also refers to this size as the "small," and both retailers refer to the bigger size as "medium."

I also want to clarify from the video that when I said soap, I meant I was told to use soap with a little water on a cloth or paper towel to clean stains, making sure to wipe the area dry afterwards. I've never had to use soap, though, as usually just a little water on a napkin removes whatever surface stain or mark I've made on these bags.

Closeup of the two different saffiano textures

Side views of the two medium sizes < Lux vs. Cuir>

As mentioned in my review, I'd love to hear any other requests for future videos!

classic wrap blouse for work to weekends

Ann Taylor wrap blouse c/o xxsp, Jolt destroyed jeans (similar)

Ivanka Trump flats 5.5 (3 colors - also sold here), Babulebar bar & Y necklace

For those who like comfy basics that transition easily from work to weekend, this blouse is a must-have (and at a very reasonable price right now). The style is reminiscent of my beloved H&M one from years ago, which is still alive despite some unfortunate pulls. This one has a stretchy, smooth, crepe-like material that's machine washable. You can wear it with trousers, jeans, tucked into a skirt, layered under a sweater or dress, and so much more. The material has a nice medium weight to it - I'm wearing the white with my usual skin-toned bra and didn't find it to be sheer. I loved this top so much I ended up getting a dark one as well, and have been guilty of wearing it several days in a row!

FYI, the blouse comes with the crossover neckline stitched together about 2 inches higher than how I'm wearing it above. It's a good conservative look, but I wanted the option to lower the neckline as well. I used small scissors to carefully snip out the stitch, and just secure the neckline using a small safety pin at whatever height I'm feeling for each outfit. More patient ladies can easily add small hooks or snap buttons. The collar is a subtle detail that makes this different from most other wrap blouses, and allows it to be doubly versatile for layering like shown below!

AT necklace (extra 60% off!), AT dress c/o, J.Crew belt (similar), Kate Spade heels (similar)

KS watch, Emerson Fry leopard jacket (currently sold out, but they've done re-stocks)

This stretchy pale rose dress is my favorite piece out of Ann Taylor's current wave of new arrivals. It runs true to size for the brand, so it will be a little loose on ladies who are my exact size (32-24-32 bust/waist/hips). The material is a thicker double-weave fabric, almost ponte-like but with a little texture which I tried to show in the picture below. The quality is nice, with the dress being fully lined with an invisible back zip and back leg slit. There is a thin piping detail along the entire neckline, armholes, waistline, bottom hem, and down the back center (lots of piping!) which makes this piece look more expensive. Tights wearers can try this with dark charcoal gray tights and similar colored pumps.

I used a thin belt to cinch in the waist, and may need alterations to get a more figure-hugging look which I love for pencil dresses. You can see some extra gathered fabric at the waist and hips in the shot below. Measurements of a 00 petite: 15" armpit to armpit, 12.75" across waist, 17" across hips, 36.5" length. Please account for some thickness in these measurements due to the double-weave material and lining.

Here's a few other notable items, on sale as part of AT's weekend promo (code HAPPY50):
- cobalt suede pumps - starting in size 5. I love my old ones from J.Crew, which these look like a good dupe for. They make a clutch bag with removable chain in the same cobalt blue suede that's also on sale - my friend has this and wears it all the time for going out.
- tie neck blouse - another classic work-to-weekend top. This one is silky feeling but machine-washable. I tried on the light pink color and did not find it to be sheer when worn with a skin-toned bra. The material is thinner than the crossover drape top I'm wearing in this post, and has a little stretch.
- faux fur pom pom beanie - I love my cable knit hats, and this one is still left in cream
- embroidered dot shirt (see on me here and here)

Soft winter shades // Stuart Weitzman Highland vs Lowland boots review (good for narrow calves)

Stuart Weitzman boots, Ann Taylor sweater (similar in blush pink)

J.Crew coat + skirt (similar), Saint Laurent wallet on chain, Old Navy hat (similar)

Some of you guys may remember this older linen sweater...the material is a loose weave more suited for warm weather, but I love the color and wanted to winterize it for now. A simple long-sleeved tee layered underneath filled in the little holes and added warmth. I think I have almost all the texture bases covered here with wool, cable knit, suede, leather, chain...and can't forget the faux fur pouf!

After I did a review of my Stuart Weitzman Lowland flat boots earlier this season, several of you had questions in this post on the heeled Highland version. A few readers requested a comparison of the two popular styles, so here goes!

Shaft fit: The shaft construction of both boots appear to be exactly the same, made of Stuart Weitzman's signature lycra-backed stretchy suede which is lined in a satiny material. Both boots have laces at the back opening, which I secure by tying in a bow twice then tucking the ends into the shaft. I've also found the shaft measurements and fit of both styles in the same style to be exactly the same. The fit is wonderful for narrow calves and thighs, and I've heard the suede stretches nicely to accommodate curvier legs as well.

Measurements of sz 5 (please note these will vary for different shoe sizes) for both Highland and Lowlands: 4" across the ankles, 5.75" across the calves, 6.75" across the thigh opening, and 21" shaft height excluding heel. Please account for some thickness for the lined suede material. Highland has a 3.5" heel, and Lowland has a 1" heel.

Foot fit: At the foot, the Highlands feel narrower throughout than the Lowlands, which you can kinda see in the sole comparison above. The front toe area of the Highlands taper in just a bit more. The Lowlands measure 1/4" wider at the sole, but in the picture below you can see that may also be due to the thin edging detail along the foot, which I rather like. I'm clumsy and often stub my toe, rubbing off the material on the very tip of beloved shoes. I feel like it'd be easier to discreetly patch up the coloring on the edging compared to on the whole toe.

I was told by sales associates that both styles run half size big compared to other brands. I typically wear 5 to 5.5 in most brands, and found size 5 to be the most comfortable in both styles. I still have wiggle room in the Lowlands for thick socks and inserts, but the Highlands in the same size are more fitted on my feet.

Look and comfort: In the picture above, I put the heels of both shoes against a straight edge to show the difference at a glance. Not surprising for heels, the Highland looks notably smaller and more dainty relative to its flat sister. But compared to other flat boots, I think the Lowland is definitely one of the sleeker options out there. I can walk miles around the city in the Lowland with my "orthopedic" heel inserts, and find the Highlands to be comfortable for the 3.5" heels that they are. The thicker blocked heel helps a lot if you're not vigilant about sidewalk cracks!

Overall I think they're hard to compare since the two styles serve different styling purposes. I like flats for walking around the city, but prefer heels for going out and dressier occasions where I'll be taking a car. For those who mentioned you're debating between the two, it really depends on what would get more use in your own lifestyle - living in Boston, I'd pick the flats first! The price tag is not for the faint of heart, but was worth it to me given my frustrations with finding high quality tall boots that actually fit (and it doesn't hurt that they're very warm).

I also got more questions on color choice - these boots come in quite the range from dark to light. Classic black would be my first choice if I didn't already have tall boots in that color. I feel black is the easiest to "color in" or patch if the suede wears down, and also most versatile for matching with same-colored tights, leggings, and jeans. I love both gray and taupe so ended up with colors that are a little mix of both. My Lowlands are in "Londra" which is a medium gray with just hints of taupe brown, and my Highlands are in "Praline" which is lighter and more taupe. Praline is only left in the flats version at Zappos, however the similar "Taupe / Topo" is still available at most retailers in heels.

Highland sold at: Zappos, Stuart Weitzman, Nordstrom, Shopbop, Elyse Walker
Lowland sold at: Zappos, Stuart Weitzman, Nordstrom, Shopbop, Elyse Walker
All with free ship & returns in the US; Shopbop w/ free ship to several other countries

Here's my Lowland review again for photos of that style, and a tip for pulling these babies on/off with minimal struggle!

Baublebar slim bar pendant necklace, Laura Mercier lip glac� in Orchid

Storage and care: I'm working on a longer post about shoe care, but in the meantime, I always store my boots with wadded up paper inserted in the ankle and lower calf area, even my rubber rainboots. Most tall boots arrive with cardboard inserts or these paper wads, which I like to shape to best mimic my leg size. Boot shapers that are too big might stretch leather out; too small ones won't keep the ankle area filled, which may result in ankle sags and creases. I keep my most frequently-worn pairs ones out and like to keep others lying horizontally in their boxes or dustbags. Here's the leather & suede protectant again that I like using on shoes before wearing - 1 can is enough for 2 thorough coats on a pair of OTK boots, and can cover two pairs of shoes with less material.

Instagram Lately + Favorite San Diego Eats

Modcloth cropped cardigan in navy sz S, Ann Taylor shirt 00p (also worn here)

Halogen leopard heels sz 5, Prada tote bag in caramel, J.Crew skirt 000p

Just popping in to share some recent sale finds and another Instagram roundup! I stumbled upon this very good sale of Nike sneakers (including my favorite Free 5.0) that don't often get marked down, with free 3-day shipping and returns! There's also no sales tax for orders shipping outside of NJ or NY. Outside of sneakers, NAP also has a pretty big sale selection of designer shoes, clothes and accessories which the site is more known for. Many items are left in small sizes so try filtering by size on the left.


Rag & Bone is also having a big sale with free ship & returns. Includes several styles of premium skinny jeans (this looks like a classic pair for half off) and ankle boots, like their popular Newbury, Margot, and Harrow style booties. Please note the Harrow boot is known to run small, so may even fit ladies who usually need a tough-to-find size 34.

Next up, the outfit above from my Instagram - got so many questions in the comments about how to tuck both a shirt and cardigan in a pencil skirt without bulges! That is the beauty of a cropped-length, 3/4 sleeve cardigan. No tucking-in needed, plus allows for a cute cuffed-sleeve looks without bulk at the lower arms. This one comes in so many versatile colors and runs small - mine in size S measures 15" from top to bottom, and my guess is this length will vary with each size. If it's too short for you to wear as shown above, it'll still look cute worn open over dresses to show off your waistline.

Cauldron nitrogen s'mores ice cream in a "puffle" waffle / egg-puff cone

On to my favorite part of this post - the most memorable eats from our last SoCal trip! We look for new places to try each visit, and these did not disappoint. Cauldron is actually quite a bit outside SD in Santa Ana. We were passing by and it looked interesting on Yelp, with nitrogen ice cream finished science experiment-style in front of you, and their signature "puffle" cone which is a hybrid of mini Asian egg puffs and a regular waffle cone. You can tear off the slightly warm little puffs one by one and dip into your ice cream. To further entice the ladies, they can carve any ice cream into a rose shape if you so desire.

We got the S'mores puffle above, and although Nick rather liked it (probably b/c he's a big fan of the traditional egg puffs as seen here in # 6, ha!), I'm not really been into those and would get a regular waffle cone next time. We also wished there was more of the creamy ice cream inside the cone - ended up gobbling this one up and had to get another cup to fully satisfy our cravings.

Tajima signature ramen (requested spicy) w/ added corn

I am perpetually on the lookout for good ramen, and this had most of the components I love plus a few pleasant surprises. You also get to choose from a variety of noodles including thin, thick, or gluten-free. We both got thick and they were wonderfully springy in texture. Also I'm a huge fan of "garlic chive" (the longer ones at the top of the bowl) in dumplings, stir-fries, etc, and found them to be equally tasty in noodles. I would get the Tajima non-spicy next time in order to better appreciate the broth flavors.

Oscars Mexican Seafood tacos and shrimp + fish ceviche

No trip to San Diego would be complete without fulfilling Nick's taco fix. These large ones are from Oscars, where I hope to try the "surf & turf" next time. The tacos were good (with sauces aplenty for this condiment junkie) but I thought the ceviche was the star.

Poke Go brown rice combo (ahi tuna, salmon, octopus) + avocado

Oh my poke goodness, I can't get enough of these bowls. It's the perfect light but filling lunch or post-workout treat. Boston is a few waves behind all the food trends of the west coast, so although these are old news for many, I was quite giddied up to eat it every chance I got (which was 3x during this last visit...mmm). Orange County seems to have a plethora of options, but Poke Go was the only dedicated poke bowl shop we found in San Diego, having opened just a few weeks ago. I got a combo in their lighter soy-based sauce, with a little spicy mayo on the side. The bowl was fresh and delish, but I'd request less onion next time and more of the cucumbers for added crunch.

The diced fish in sauce concept is technically very easy to make at home if you have access to fresh ingredients...but you can't beat the convenience of picking up a bowl. Wonder if I can convince my favorite sushi take-out joint to start adding this as an option ; )

For anyone planning a SoCal visit, here are my other favorite spots from a past trip.

Party in Pink

WHBM skirt 00p (similar in burgundy in petites, similar in red/black), J.Crew tee xxs, 

long rope pearls + Ann Taylor crystal necklace, M.Gemi heels sz 35.5 (similar)

Happy 2016! Wishing each of you a joyful, fulfilling, and�of course�stylish new year! Fashion-wise, one of my resolutions is to take better & proper care of my clothing, shoes, and bags. I've been researching and experimenting with products for the past few months, and am eager to continue and eventually share my learnings!

This was one of my last outfits in California before returning to the cold reality of winter in Boston. The skirt was on clearance at White House Black Market, which continues to impress me with the quality on certain items. My friend who does quite a bit of sewing scrutinized this piece, and was surprised by the use of horsehair braid along the hem (for fullness), in addition to the heavier material, full lining, plus side pockets at this price point. I paired it simply with one of my go-to turtlenecks, which have gotten more wears this season than I can count.

Dress the Population Zoe dress xs (neckline closed up 1"), Steve Madden heels 5.5

We rung in the new year helping good friends host a party, with the same group at the same place for 3 years in a row now! I figured why not live it up a little and ended up going with the makeup look & dress from this post. The original neckline was quite low so I put on the dress, threaded a needle, and stitched together the V until Nick's bulging eyes receded back a bit. Here's some pics I dug out from NYE of 2014, 2015, and now 2016...must remember to continue this photo op in the years to come!

After wearing this dress for a solid 8+ hours, I can confirm it has continuously good hold at the tummy area...I was gorging on snacks all night but the very stretchy, thicker material kept my food baby in check. It's still fully avail. in my "antique gold" color and just got restocked in the blush pink/gold "opalescent," which was my first choice but had been sold out for ages (would be gorge for a bachelorette or girls night)! For fellow shorties, the neckline will hit lower than on the model, but is very easy to safety pin or hand-stitch up.

While on Nordies' site, I noticed their big half-yearly sale is currently going on until Jan 3rd. You can shop the sale here and filter by size & price after selecting a category. Here's a few picks I came across, still available in small or petite sizes:
- Ellen Tracy belted down coat w/ faux fur trim, very reminiscent of my J.Crew one but comes in a pretty olive in addition to black. Nearly 50% off and starts in size Petite P.
- Skinny cargo-style pants - under $30, starting in size 00. 27" inseam may fit like regular ankle jeans on petite ladies.
- Lucy Paris lace dress in navy, now 40% off. Runs small and narrow (see my review)
- Infinity scarves in 2 cute plaids for 50% off - now under $12
- TOMS classic slip-ons in a tweedy gray, starting in sz 5 for 30% off. I find their slip-ons to be very comfy for running errands with no breaking-in needed.

I saw a pretty necklace recently with layered pearls and crystals, and figured it was easy enough to recreate. I found a thin rope pearl necklace and wrapped it around three times so that it sat shorter than my Ann Taylor crystal piece. Speaking of AT, my white twill trench is now online in a versatile navy blue! See my original review here and it styled again here - the quality is really lovely, and I imagine the darker color is much lower maintenance for those scared of white. I kept seeing the navy as a tease in the stock photo, but it never appeared to be available for sale until now (and is 40% off).

PS - the 3 Nordstrom gift card winners have been drawn & announced! Congrats!

Birds of a Feather

Banana Republic skirt xsp (waistband folded over), Ann Taylor jacket 00p c/o

Halogen leopard heels sz 5, Talbots audrey cashmere sz petite p (similar in camel)

Ann Taylor crystal necklace, Chanel bag, Bobbi Brown lip color in "Brownie"

I hope those who celebrate had a very merry Christmas! We're on the West coast with family, and I'm thrilled that my grandparents were able to come visit the Nelson residence. They don't speak the same language at all, but communicate through good cooking and warm hugs : ) I had this outfit on for some festivities with friends, but ended up swapping bare legs for black tights and booties since it was so chilly! The feather-like fringe on this skirt makes it instantly party-ready (see other pairing ideas here and here), but can be dressed down a bit with neutrals. I hoisted the length up for nighttime by folding the wide waistband over - just make sure to remove the tag from the inner back.

Most retailers snapped into clearance mode the moment Christmas was over... almost everything in my look here is on sale! Ann Taylor is having a big promo which includes both my jacket (also worn here) and necklace. I've been reaching for this piece quite a bit; it has a good weightiness to it, and I like the crystal aspect for pairing since it takes on whatever color you're wearing underneath. Also for fellow lovers of Stila sun bronzer (I'm wearing it here), I stumbled across a few in the sale section of Sephora w/ EXTRA20 for another 20% off. I stocked up but am so sad to see yet another favorite being discontinued! I guess many users didn't like the red/orange tint, which I prefer to just brown for a warmer look.

I love seeing everyone's tree styles, and mama Nelson's never disappoints decked out in pearls and poinsettias. Don't worry, Misty knows not to snack on them! I got a few questions on IG about her PJs, but it's actually just a roomy human flannel shirt ; ) My comfy thermal sleepshirt however is from this post and just went on sale in all 10 colors. It was super easy to get a price adjustment via online chat, so don't be afraid to ask for one if you got it recently.

I snapped this Instagram before we left Boston, from a small holiday gathering at our place. The Cheers glasses are from my post here and now also on sale! The antler straws were found in the dollar bins of good ole' Target. PS - I also wanted to mention my leopard heels in this outfit are from years ago, but got restocked earlier this season starting in sz 4! I love the slightly lower heel and "normal" leopard print. They do run big though per the listing, so I'd echo trying half a size down.

Red, white + stripe

**Sale alert ~ J.Crew is having 30-40% off most outerwear today, including my petite puffer vest and coat (see my review) which are 40% off. Clearance items are an extra 40 - 50% off, so be sure to filter there by size - lots of classic work trousers and shoes left in small sizes, with free ship today at any price!** 

Ann Taylor trench 00p c/o, J.Crew turtleneck xxs + strappy heels (similar here or here)

Clinique lipcolor #3, Chanel bag, Ann Taylor necklace + red pants (current version)

It was nearly in the 60's today which is quite a treat for Boston in December! I found these oldie but goodie red trousers in the back of my closet, and paired them with a cream jacket in the spirit of Christmas. As mentioned in a prior post, this Ann Taylor jacket is beautiful quality with great detailing, and is on the heavier side for a trench. The material isn't a traditional "trench" fabric, but rather a textured, thick twill-like cotton with a touch of spandex.

I've also worn this jacket simply with black bottoms and boots, shown below. To help keep the collar of lighter outerwear clean, I usually make sure to wear a higher-neck top underneath that's easily washable, or drape a thin scarf along the interior of the collar.

These striped turtlenecks (currently on sale w/ free ship at any price!) have been true layering staples, and often serve as my "shield" to protect such outerwear. They are lightweight tees so you don't get overheated under coats.

JBrand Maria jeans in vanity sz 24 hemmed, Cole Haan boots (lower version on sale!)

The fit of this jacket is pretty good on me in my usual 00p, The only potential alteration I'm considering is shortening the sleeves - they're about an inch long for my short arms, which causes the fabric to get pushed up and appear crinkled. Thankfully the crinkles don't set in, and fall out after hanging due to the heaviness of the material. Measurements of a 00p: 14" across the shoulders, 16" armpit to armpit when buttoned up, 20" length, 22" sleeve length.
PS - I see Ann Taylor is having 50% off dresses and skirts through Wednesday! In the dresses department, the material of this tweed sheath dress is really pretty in-person and looks higher end, with a thick texture, vibrant coloring & small metallic details. The online stock photo doesn't really do the fabric justice. This fringe sweater skirt left in small sizes is very different while still classy - I can easily picture it for any Gatsby themed events too. And of course, you guys know I love this flared sweater skirt which is very comfortable for long days.

The best Black Friday 2015 sales (petite-friendly edition)

Ann Taylor sweater c/o (50% off w/CELEBRATE), Baublebar necklace (30% off w/THX), Anthro mugs (25% off w/SHOPTOIT), Kate Spade thermos (25% off w/MERCI)

Target sweater leggings sz S (Sold out - similar in red/white)

Happy Thanksgiving to those who celebrate! This year, we're staying cozy on Black Friday at home in our PJs. My family used to brave the hectic crowds each year (starting earlier and earlier until my dad would skip dinner altogether) - I've finally convinced them that sales are just as good online, plus you can shop from the comfort of your own couch ; ) Here are some of the best sales, including great deals on a few favorite items in my closet:

Sorel - 25% off some of their best-selling insulated weather boots + free shipping, including my Winter Fancy Lace ii boots (worn here)! These very rarely go on sale and are usually sold out by wintertime. They run a little small - I mistakenly mentioned I have a 5.5 but just checked and mine are a 6! I didn't notice I got the wrong size because they fit fine with thick socks on (for reference, I'm usually a 5 to 5.5 in most other brands). They're not lightweight shoes but they do keep your feet very warm. The Caribou boot is another popular option for even heavier snow conditions, and don't forget functional gifts for your men (Nick has these Cheyanne boots and suggests going up half a size)...


Baublebar - 30% off site-wide w/ code THX, with free everyday shipping & returns. There's several pieces I love from here including the slim bar pendant worn above (I have in gold & want it in silver & rose gold too!) and of course my favorite bib necklace (last worn here). I just picked up this cute personalize-able travel jewelry roll for a gift.

Ann Taylor - 50% off everything with code CELEBRATE. I adore the sweater worn above and the bow heels (both styled in this post; limited sizes left) and just got this luxe faux-fur collar in plum. I also love a good winter white piece for this season. I haven't personally tried this boiled wool jacket or cream sweater dress but they have solid reviews.

Anthropologie - 25% off site-wide w/SHOPTOIT. Reviewed the shrunken Hei Hei bomber jacket + pretty Byron Lars dress in this post and the comfy curved poncho sweater in this post. Also the holiday monogram mugs (pictured above) are back! They make great gifts, esp packed full of goodies (I usually use mine as makeup brush and lip gloss holders : )

ASOS - 30% off everything w/ code BLESSED. Free shipping & easy free returns on orders over $40! Their petites run small and their blanket scarves (I have the tartan & here's another cute one) are oversized & cozy. Also, my bridal shower white lace dress (size up; see on me) is still in stock in all petite sizes & a good price with the promo!

J.Crew Factory: - 50% off everything & free ship over $50 w/ SHIPGIFTS. I've been very impressed by their stuff this season. I just love my tartan popover (try regular sizing if you have longer arms) and pom beanie below, and recently got to try on a few more items pictured below which all fit really well. Here's a peek of how some of the below items look on me in my usual sizes 00/xxs. The new arrival wool-blend topcoat in petites disappeared in the blink of an eye in the camel color, but is still fully avail. in the hunter green. Ladies who can usually wear a 0P or up could try the regular sizing which is still in stock starting in 00. It's a very decent tailored coat for the price, reminiscent of a combo between their lady day + regents coat.

1. wool-blend coat 2. striped dress (I didn't think it ran large in petites) 3. cable sweater 

4. beanie (sold out; similar on sale!) 5. sequin skirt (00p is 12.5" across waist) 6. pants

Nordstrom - extra 25% off many sale items, ends 11/30. Sizes are going quickly, so the best way to shop is to visit their Black Friday sale page and then filter by a category (ie. womens clothing or womens shoes) and your size.

Kate Spade - 25% off your order with code MERCI, and everyday free shipping & returns. The striped thermos pictured above brightens up my mornings, but heads up, you must carefully align the lid when screwing it on otherwise it will leak. My party-perfect structured bow back dress which is very petite-friendly (worn in this post) is already on markdown plus eligible for the additional discount! Other picks are the cedar street harmony mini bag I have, or this highly-reviewed cameron street satchel ($156 down from $348) in a rich burgundy or forest green. Please note items marked down 50% or more are final sale.

7 for All Mankind - amazing 40% off site-wide on designer denim + free ship w/ code BLACK40. I like their ankle skinnies (may fit petites as regular jeans w/ no alterations needed) which start in a size 23. Been eying the leather-look ones in black or mink - let me know if anyone has info on sizing/fit for these!

J.Crew - 40% off select items and 30% off everything else w/ code HOLIDAY. With the addition of their latest sizes 000 and xxxs petite - I imagine the ladies who have to get everything altered must be thrilled at this option! Here's some of my favorites which I haven't seen yet at these prices:
- Wintress Puffer Coat - I love the stylish removable faux fur hood, and the flattering belted silhouette (despite being a puffer). Please note I found the petite sizing to run pretty small and shorter in the sleeves - size up if you want to layer, or try regular sizing if you have longer arms. I have my usual xxsp and after wearing a few times, wish I tried a size up!
- Cambridge cable turtleneck - one of their classics that is often excluded from sale. Runs slim and sleeves fit narrow, so size up if you want it to fit like it does on the model.
- A cropped swing trench is one of my most worn pieces, and I keep mentioning this J.Crew version as the best dupe I've found starting in tiny petite sizing. I can't believe it's still left in all sizes and on major clearance for $54 (from $138)!
- Icon trench - very classic and reminiscent of Burberry style. Often on backorder and rarely on sale, but it's part of the 30% off today.
- I haven't personally tried this, but here's a newer-arrival petite wool Melton coat still left in most sizes and colors at 40% off.
- No 2 wool pencil skirt - a work staple; I have dusty cedar and ivory which usually don't last through bigger sales. I have to get all my pencil skirts altered except this one - the 000 petite has a 24" waist and is a snug fit. Please note this size is much too small for me in everything else at J.Crew...I only size down for the pencil skirts because I like them to fit higher on the waist.

Petite peplum sweater + red bow heels

Ann Taylor sweater xxsp + bow heels sz 5 c/o, similar petite gingham shirt

ASOS wrap, BR pants 00p, Baublebar necklace, Laura Mercier "red amour," AT tote

As Instagram & Snapchat friends know, we�re currently on a mini roadtrip through Maine before heading home for Thanksgiving! I�ve been wearing this tummy-forgiving sweater frequently to dinner and also for lounging in our room with knit bottoms. I styled it here with my slim ankle pants and a little print mixing for added interest. Ann Taylor is currently having 40% off new arrivals w/GIVE40 including both my sweater and bow heels worn here! Other new arrivals worth checking out is this floral drape blouse, large faux fur collar (a luxe accent for plain coats or for winter cocktail parties), rose gold sequin skirt (would need the usual taking-in on someone my size), and these gold heels if you don't own a pair yet.
The quality of this sweater impressed me as it�s a warm, thicker and tighter knit plus the sizing runs small. The sleeves especially fit slim and pretty tight at first, but stretch out a little with wear. I like that the nipped in waist actually hits higher at my natural waistline, and the overall length is just right on a shorter frame. If you're over an inch or so taller than me, I'd recommend checking out the regular sizing for more length. The wool/nylon/cotton/cashmere blend doesn't require dry cleaning (although I've been washing all my sweaters at home these days with this wool & cashmere shampoo, including the ones labeled dry clean only!).
I have these sloan ankle pants in multiple colors/fabrics now, but still default most often to classic navy. I love them for travel as they�re comfy and aren�t too tight. Also, they don�t seem to stretch out or wrinkle much on me. They are still on promo now for 40% off with code BRFRIENDS !

Hope you guys have a wonderful Sunday, and safe travels this holiday week!