Hello hello ~ ending the week here with this easy pairing of a long tunic over slim jeans. This soft top with handkerchief hem is a loose casual fit on me in xs, great for lounging comfortably in at home (or on long plane rides) over leggings. My Cole Haan Marina boots are all sold out, but I wanted to mention the below-the-knee "Barnard" version again, currently on sale for 40% off. I haven't tried this on personally, but reading through the reviews it sounds very petite-friendly! The lower shaft & heel height makes them potentially work appropriate, unlike OTK boots. One shopper who gave a rave review mentioned she is 5 feet tall with narrow 12" calves, and the boot in size 5.5 hit about 1 inch below the back of her knees.
Unrelated restock alert, the bow-back dress I posted about previously is now back up in a new pink color, available in all sizes! You can read my post here including the measurements of an XS, which I found to be pretty petite-friendly off the rack. Nordstrom is also having a sunglasses sale, with markdowns or price-matching on several designer styles! In addition to my 51mm Clubmasters worn above and my 58mm aviators, here's a few other options currently on sale:
If you're unfamiliar with sunglasses measurements, the three dimensions represent "lens width - nose bridge width - temple length." My biggest sunglasses fit issue is my flatter nose bridge, so personally prefer either styles with a narrower bridge width (usually 20mm or below), or, styles with adjustable nose pads like most Ray-Bans where I can manually bend the nose pads closer. I used to have several pairs of sunglasses that sat lower on my nose and rested on my cheeks - I thought this was normal until a friend told me that cheek resting was a clear sign of improper fit! Width wise, I don't mind my lenses a little over-sized, so have shades ranging in lens widths of 51 to 58mm. Hope you guys have a great weekend ~ Nick and I will be scrambling to get our holiday shopping done, and attending a few last festivities before heading out to warmth on the West coast! Thank you to Nordstrom sunglasses for partnering on this post.
I sometimes hear pairing brown with black (also navy with black) as a "don't" and can't imagine why! I think the two work together harmoniously, which inspired this outfit comprised of four of my favorite neutrals. This is my second Bobeau cardigan and the "light grey" knit is a heathered one that goes with everything. I've gotten some questions on the differences between Bobeau's regular fleece cardigan (which I've shown often in "mink") and their fuzzy which I have on here. The regular has a smooth outer and is lined in a traditional fleece material as most of us know it, while the fuzzy fleece is a thinner knit material that is smoother on the inside and with a very fine fuzziness on the outside that feels suuper soft and not really fleece-y. I found the fuzzy to run a little tighter in the arms thus sized up one. This outfit prompted me to also share a little tip I've been using to keep hats secure on your head! After having one too many gusts of wind leave me chasing after a hat, I came up with these super easy hairpin loops made of thin elastic. Simple sew two (one near each ear) pieces of elastic by hand into the interior of a hat band, and use them as loops to secure bobby pins to. If needs be, seal the cut edges of the elastic with clear nail polish to prevent fraying. I am slowly in the process of adding these to all my hats, especially the lightweight ones from summer! Sizing-wise, this hat is more generously sized, but I kept it out of several I tried because it actually encases most of my head and keeps it warm. I've been using it more as a functional rather than fashion accessory (rumples hair up much less than knit hats), but it doesn't hurt that it's in a cute panama shape. If you have a hard-to-fit head, I've mentioned before on IG that H&M has sized hats in S/M/L and the S fits pretty small (I'm a M there). Black skinny jeans are high up on my fall/winter staples list, as they're so flattering especially with booties. Nordstrom has a big selection at all price points starting in sizes 23 / 000, and I like to filter by size plus "ankle" length for ones that may require no alterations on shorties. The J.Brand "Maria" cut is an old favorite of mine despite a regular length that did need to be hemmed. It's a high-waisted style that fully covers my lower belly, which some may be averse to but in my older age I love how it holds everything in and flattens that area. The material of these in "vanity" is a substantial-weight denim (please note that I've found materials to be quite varied based on the color code, even within the same style from the same brand). Color is a regular black, not as jet black as these photos depict.
If you're looking for more of a jegging, I love the feel of CoH's popular legging jeans in "axel." I remember a while back I was sick in bed and less than enthused about getting dressed for an event. I was staying with a friend, who loaned me her "axel" jeans and I couldn't believe something so stretchy, soft and comfortable could look reasonably formal! I like my ankle area to be super skinny however and these have a slim but slightly wider opening than my J.Brands. A sz 24 in the CoH's fit well everywhere except length, so I didn't find them to run small like the item listing notes.
Thank you to Nordstrom denim for sponsoring this post!
PS - restock alert - my wool blend plaid scarf from this post is now all sold out on Sole Society, but I noticed Nordstrom just got stocked the "hunter green" one I have!
Last weekend we strolled to Boston Public Garden to scope out the foliage, however it seemed that all the trees were either still mostly green or completely barren already! We must've just missed a few trees turning because there was this giant pile of the prettiest, vibrant pink and orange leaves on the ground. I love leggings as a lazy, comfy alternative to jeans, especially on long flights when too skinny jeans can cut off your circulation. To escape the associated stigma, just make sure your top is plenty long enough to cover your crotch. I thought I was in the clear here, but looking at these photos it wouldn't hurt to have an extra inch or two of length...oops : ) I read tons of reviews looking for leggings that aren't see through and won't stretch out much, and was vacillating again between the ones I'm wearing here and these ravely-reviewed Hue ones. I went with the BP for this color and so far they don't disappoint (do size up - a S was fitted on me). I only wish they'd make petite! The lazy in me just has the extra length folded under for now. I've been wearing these Vince Camuto "Hillsy" booties so much, they're definitely rivaling my BP Trolley ones for versatility and comfort. They are similar in height with the VC measuring at 3.25" and the BP at 3" eve. I have to say the VC leather feels a little better and softer which is probably reflective of the higher price. They are still available in most sizes, starting in a hard to find sz 4! Also, I've been liking this LOFT sweater so it's interesting to read all the polarizing reviews online! The style is very slouchy and poncho-esque so I guess it might be in the expectations. My only complaint with it is the smaller neckhole as mentioned in my review, but getting my hair rumpled up has been a fairly minor issue so far.
**Sale alert: if you're looking for a great pair of boyfriend shorts that aren't too short, I came across these Guess boy-fit ones (yes, Guess...can't remember the last time I went into one!) that are very reminiscent of Rag & Bone ones at a fraction of the price. They are on temporary markdown for 50% off, plus new customers can use code FIRST15G for extra 15% off and free shipping. I tried on a size 24 which were a little loose, not atypical of the bf style (fit just like the sizing of R&B bf jeans), so ordered a 23 online. Also, search for the "cable knit dress" on sale - would be adorable with flats or over tights, and the 35" length shouldn't be too mini on petites.**
Just a quick post today from Cape Cod - the hydrangeas there are so charming this time of year! I wanted to share this adorable petite-friendly skirt that I packed for the weekend. It's just like my navy one that I DIY'd but is stretchy and of good weight. Either color is very easy to pair with tops, and as a bonus it fit great off the rack!
This skirt is available at both Topshop and Nordstrom, both with free shipping & free returns! Topshop currently has more sizes in stock, down to a US 0 (in my experience, their sizing runs very small, about 2 sizes smaller than other US brands I shop at). I am wearing a US 2 here which is a comfortable fit and not too mini. For reference, my waist/hip measurements are 24/32 inches. This skirt is pull-on style with a thick elastic waistband concealed inside. The material itself feels like a stretchy twill and is fully lined, with the lining completely stitched to the outer so no worrying about the two layers coming apart. As with all white bottoms I recommend wearing skin-colored undies, but I was happy to be able to wear printed tops tucked in without much show-through. The size 2 I have, when lying flat and unstretched, measures about 12.5" across the waist and 16.5" across the hips. This is one of those pieces I'll be sure to keep out of the machine dryer to avoid any shrinking.
Happy Friday morning! The Nordstrom Anniversary sale finally opened up to the public this morning, with several petite-friendly and extended sizing options still available. Please refer to this post for my list of petite-friendly suggestions last week. I was bummed they did not appear to restock items that sold out during early access like the utility jacket I got, but do check back if you loved anything in case there are returns. Here are a few more reviews from the items I tried... Trouv� leather drape collar jacket - For a regular sized item, the fit of an XXS was surprisingly great. This is a thinner jacket with drape, almost like a waterfall cardigan, and the leather is super soft and supple. Other features include hidden pockets in the front for your hands, and a little clasp if you want to wear it closed. In the photo above, you can see that there is a tightly ribbed material on the inner length of the sleeves, which gives it that close fit. I'm big on narrow sleeves and these fit very nice and slim.
On the downside, it is regular sizing so the sleeves were inches too long on my short arms. For fellow short-armed ladies, this wouldn't be a basic alteration because of the zippers. An alternative is you can wear the sleeves casually scrunched up at the elbow like the models show it on the item page. As beautiful as this jacket is, I'm not sure if I will keep it because I'll likely get more wear out of my faux leather Blank NYC one (runs small). For anyone who prefers genuine leather, would definitely recommend giving this one a try while sizes are still in stock (I see it's racking up some 5 star reviews already). I love that it's a more feminine and elegant take on the typically edgy moto jacket, and the sale price of $219 is very good for supple leather.
For those who don't mind faux, Blank NYC also has a new faux leather jacket out that is a very reasonable price under this sale. Silhouette looks like everything a traditional moto jacket should be. Unfortunately it is not noted to run small, so probably best for those who typically wear a 0/2 regular and up.
This pocketed cardigan comes in 7 colors and is an easy layering staple for work and casual wear. Petite ladies can definitely pull off longer sweaters - pair with skinny bottoms like leggings + a tank, or slim ankle pants. The material is a lightweight 100% cotton and the fit is slim and narrow through the sleeves (I have them folded up once). It's machine washable, but would keep this one out of the dryer as with all my cardigans, to maintain the shape and also not let it shrink.
Free people pullover (4 colors) - I LOVED the way this top looks and drapes in the front, but my back was chilly! I know the open back is part of the design, but I just wasn't used to the feeling of breeze over there. I would need to wear a tank underneath each time, so unfortunately this one is going back. The fit of a regular XS was petite-friendly though, as you can see the length hit just right in the front (not too long that it'd be a tunic) and the 3/4 sleeves work on short arms.
A few other items Nick & I picked up or already have from this sale:
Clarisonic sensitive replacement heads - 4 pack, a no-brainer at $16.25 each. If you don't have a base Clarisonic cleansing system, check out the ones on sale starting at $79. It's amazing how much more makeup comes off on that brush after I think I do a good job washing my face by hand. Also, would not be able to get through winter without it as it keeps my dry face clear of flaky skin. Nick and I actually share one base machine and keep our own brush heads in separate baggies.
Men's cedar shoe trees,perfect for stocking up as gifts for the guys in your life. Nick has been asking for some for a while and I kept forgetting each bday and holiday, so he was ecstatic to get these and already asked for a few more. They look good quality in-person with adjustable toe width. The tricky part is figuring out what size you need - had to spend quite a bit of time reading the comments for help. I got the size L for his size 11-11.5 shoes and they were a good fit inside.
And on the note of men's shoes, Nick has these Sperry boat shoes in dark blue leather and loves them, as well as these Vans textured sneakers (on sale for $70 and $35, respectively - very good for classic styles from these brands).
Next up, from my cousin's order. She's very similar to me in size but a few years younger and more casual / boho in style. There were a few items from her order that are great alternatives to staple pieces I've posted about over the years. First up, if anyone remembers the popular Ann Taylor and Old Navy striped tops from years past, this BP crewneck pullover is a great dupe, especially for the sale price of $24! The design is classic with no odd bells & whistles, and the fit is pretty petite-friendly for a regular sizing item! Comes in three color choices - trying on the navy stripe below. Material is on the thinner, lightweight side and is machine washable.
Tons of ways to style and layer this, including with the ever popular fleece wrap cardigan:
Confirming that the Halogen denim shirt that's part of this sale appears to be the exact same shirt that I own from last season (see it styled on me). The xxs petite also fits the same as mine. The Tencel material is soft, and is weighted to have an almost sueded feel. Would recommend as another staple.
Treasure & Bond jacket (so many useful features - read on below) and layered sweater *coat is an army green color in-person; my lighting makes it appear more yellow*
I cranked up my air conditioning to do a few reviews from the Nordstrom Anniversary sale! As mentioned before, this is a sale on new, Fall merchandise and prices go back up for the season on August 3rd. If you don't have a Nordstrom card to get early access, you can use the "save to wishlist" button and order later when the sale is public on July 17th.
First up, this Treasure & Bond utility coat looks lackluster in the stock photos, but turned out to be an unexpected gem in all senses: it fits without alterations, is super functional, is in a versatile style that you see year after year, is machine-washable, and is a very reasonable price for a piece that can convert from a fall jacket to a winter coat. Let's take a closer look... Measurements of size XXS regular: 14" across the shoulders, 27" total length, and 22" sleeve length. I was especially thrilled that the sleeves were not too long. Material is a quality blend of 97% cotton / 3% spandex on the outer, and 100% poly on the liner. I wanted to point out that the jacket itself, without the removable liner, is already fully lined. No, I don't think this sherpa liner was intended to be worn as a vest, but I just wanted to clearly show what the removable piece looks like : ) When I first picked up the box this came in, it felt like bricks and I was confused as to what I could've possibly ordered. Turns out this jacket with the liner can easily be heavy enough for late Fall / early winter (especially if you layer underneath). For those who live in mild climates, this can probably serve as a winter coat. The liner is comfy and cozy, and I liked that it was piped in a stylish olive trim. Next, I wanted to point out that every pocket is functional - no decorative fluff here. In addition, the lower pockets have two ways of entry as shown above. I love the option on the right as it's the most comfortable way for me to rest my hands and keep them warm. How cool is this - the hood rolls up into a small tube and zips in and out of the collar. It has a drawstring as well to cinch the opening to your head size. While trying on this jacket, I thought to myself all it needed was a drawstring waist cincher. Lo and behold, when I took off the sherpa vest what do I see? The waist is cut straight, so you can use this drawstring to "shape" it to your body. A small zip pocket for coins and valuables, in addition to the many snap pockets. The elbows are also reinforced with stitched patching. On to this layered sweater, also from the same brand. I inadvertently ordered the exact outfit in their lookbook with this sweater and utility jacket, but hey it works. This is a "pre-styled" piece so you can throw it on over skinny bottoms and look ready for the day without a moment of thought. It's hard to gauge materials over the internet, but the knit of this sweater is very soft and comfortable, and not too thin. The blend of the sweater is 55% pima cotton, 25% viscose, 15% nylon, 5% cashmere sweater and the plaid shirt is 100% cotton. Please note the shirt does not actually go underneath the entire sweater - it's just a faux-layered look.
Fit on me in size XXS is a slouchy casual fit, long enough to wear with leggings in my opinion as it just covers the crotch. As you can see below, the sleeves are a little long on short arms but as with most casual sweaters, you can push them up for a scrunched look. Measurements of an XXS: 14" across shoulders, 26" approx. total length, and 22.5" sleeve length. Closeup - sweater has a waffle-like texture and the plaid has a soft, broken-in finish. This is my first time buying from Treasure & Bond and I have to say I'm impressed by quality and fit. On every item listing it also says 5% of profits are donated to organizations that empower girls and women, which is a bonus.
And unfortunately this one was a miss - the Soia & Kyo double face wool coat in size XXS. I got sent the wrong color, but that issue aside, the material was itchy on me and unlined. I do know that unlined is typical of "double face wool" construction but the overall piece just felt more like a thick cardigan / robe than a true coat to me. This will be going back. My orders were sent in piecemeal (also ended up pulling the trigger on these Cole Haan OTK boots with a very slender calf measurement) so I'll be updating with more hits and misses as they arrive!
Early access has begun for my favorite sale of the year! Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale is 30-40% off of new Fall arrivals (not past-season merchandise), and everything goes back up to regular price on August 3rd. As always, there is free shipping and easy returns on everything. Nordstrom Cardholders get early access starting today, though if you're not a cardholder, you can still use the "save to wishlist" button on all items for easy checkout once the sale opens to the public on July 17th. I missed out on several items last year that sold out during the preview, so placed my order early this time around! Will be posting updates as I get to try items on, if they're still in stock. Had lots of requests from my mom and like-sized cousin as well, so I'll be able to review a few extra pieces when my order comes in.
Below, I've thoroughly combed the sale for petite-friendly Fall must haves, including slim-calf boots, shoes and clothes in extended sizing, or regular sizing pieces that are noted to run slim or small. If you own or have tried any of these items, would love to hear your feedback!
Special notes on popular, versatile items:
1. Sam Edelman Onyx half d'orsay leopard pump. If you missed out on the d'orsay leopard pumps from last year's anniversary sale, this is a very similar version in a manageable 2.5" heel. I've tried on Sam Edelman's other styles in their same leopard calfhair material and think the print looks like a pretty good leopard in person. You'll be surprised at how a pump like this goes with everything. Bonus, extended sizes are available from a 4 - 12! 2. AGL cap toe flats, available in sizes 3.5 - 14 (amazing!). Kudos to Nordstrom for getting brands to make an extended range of sizing that they wouldn't otherwise produce. AGL gets the most rave reviews for comfort right out of the box - here are 600+ reviews on this similar full-priced ballet style. I picked up a pair in black for my mom. 3. The Longchamp expandable tote is back in several classic colors with rave customer reviews. It's convertible from a medium everyday tote to an XL travel bag, plus their Le Pliage nylon material can fold up super small for storage (or tossing inside other bags). 4. Halogen Tencel denim shirt starting in xxs petite - looks very, very similar to the one I own (now sold out) and the material and "light denim" color codes are also the same. Here is an alternate relaxed chambray shirt from BP that's just ~ $30 and in 4 colors (ordered for my cousin).
Slim and/or short calf boots! So many options on sale this year that are listed as "fitted calf."
1.Aquatalia "Gianna" Weatherproof boot, starting in size 5. Listed as a "fitted shaft" boot. My Aquatalia boots have held up so well throughout Boston winters, I definitely find the brand to be worth the price. Please remember that shaft measurements can vary quite a bit with shoe size - the last time I bought Aquatalia boots online the shaft was an inch shorter and narrower in-person than what was listed online, to my pleasant surprise. 2. Blondo "Laina" Weatherproof boot, starting in size 5.5. I don't know much about this brand, but look at this description: "shorter knee-high shaft; ideal for petite customers; narrow calf circumference. Stretchy tall boot that's waterproofed and seam-sealed for effortless weather protection" What! Sounds like a dream for those searching for the perfect petite boot that is also durable enough for inclement weather. 3. Cole Haan "Marina" over-the-knee suede boot looks like such a hot but elegant boot, with promising calf measurements (listed at 13.5" circumference, stretching up to 15"). 4. Lucky brand Heloisse boot (3 colors) - also noted as "fitted calf" with listed measurements of 15.25" shaft height and 14.5" shaft circumference.Pull-on style. Sizing notes say order a half size down. 5. La Canadienne waterproof leather boot with antibacterial, moisture-wicking lining. Starts in size 5, with a 13.75" calf circumference that stretches up to 15" around. I've heard lots of great things about this brand's durability and weather-proofedness as well.
Work & travel totes that aren't too oversized (all under 14" in width):
1. Splurge:Chloe Marcie bag in 5 color options, 14" wide x 12" high - a good size for someone my height. This premium designer style will probably not make it past the early access sale period. 2. Steal for leather: 13" x 13" genuine leather slouchy tote with pouch pocket to keep valuables secure. In 3 fall-ready colors. 3. Michael Kors jet set tote (6 fall colors!) in their easy-to-maintain saffiano leather, which has held up nicely for me on my MK bag. A simple, clean look for work if the removable medallion is taken off. Love the merlot, dark dune, and pearl gray for fall. 12" x 11" medium size. 4. Tory Burch Plaque hobo tote in 3 pretty colors, at a manageable size of 14" x 11."
Coats coats coats - these make me just a tad excited for cooler weather.
1. Trina Turk skirted coat in 3 unique colors, with the pine available in petites starting at 0P. 2. Budget option for under $40: Thread & Supply peacoat. Fit notes say XS/00 runs small, narrow through shoulders, and suggests sizing up. They also make a toggle coat (4 fall colors) which is noted to have a roomier fit. 3. Guess petite boucle coat starting in XS petite (0-2), in pretty girly shades like wine and pale pink.
Petite-friendly workwear, mostly starting in 00 regular or 00 petite
1. If you're looking to spruce up your office wardrobe for fall, Theory's signature suiting coordinates and Betty sheath dress are on sale in two new-season colors. For something a little more feminine, this beautiful boucle fit and flare dress is also on sale. I've had a lot of success with Theory 00 in the past, and based on the more shrunken fit of this one on the model, I'm guessing it is petite-friendly. Layer over a tie-neck or collar blouse, or under a cropped blazer for the office. 2. Adrianna Papell scalloped crepe dress, starts in size 2P - the LBD with adorable little details. 3. Halogen ponte fit and flare dress - starts in xxs petite (favorite is the burgundy)
4. Mix-and-match work outfit under $100:Halogen lace pencil skirt starting in 00 petite - pair with a machine-washable tie-neck blouse (6 colors, starts in xxs petite), which will look equally nice for going out with skinny jeans or leather leggings. **Update: Thank you Florence for sharing your fitting room snap of these two items! Her review is down in the comments. PS - her blog has very thorough reviews on lingerie for petite, busty ladies** 5. Under $50:Calson shirt dress - work-friendly year round with no layering necessary. Starts in xxs petite and for under $50. 6. Under $40:Calson shawl collar knit blazer, starting in size xxs petite in 8 colors. This is back from last year's sale! I've heard good feedback on this basic piece from readers who own it. Comfort dressing - all regular sizing pieces noted to run small or slim:
1. Classic Breton stripe pullover in 3 colors. XS noted to fit like womens 00. 2. Free people cowl neck asymmetrical pullover in 4 fall colors (ordered in charcoal). Love the slouchy, easy way it's styled on the model simply with jeans and booties. 3. BP Trott ankle bootie, available in 4 fall colors and starts in an elusive size 4 (noted to run small so size up) - looks to be a similar option to their signature Trolley. 4. Astr floral romper in a very similar cut as my Motel one - crossover front with long sleeves. The XS here is listed with a fit like size "00 to 0" so may be petite-friendly. 5. Treasure & Bond layered sweater (ordered in grey plaid) - summer has barely begun but this casual, comfy-looking piece makes me look forward to fall and cozying up on the couch with cider. Available in 4 colors and starts in size xxs.
Early shoppers: would love to hear what you picked up from the sale & any recommendations!
I know I had just posted about this jacket, but wanted to show another way I wore it while in Paris. I try to travel light and don't mind wearing the same few pieces numerous times. This classic little jacket passes the versatility test and is possibly one of my favorite pieces ever from Ann Taylor. The design is reminiscent of iconic Chanel jackets, and the beautiful quality and good fit make it a piece I can't stop reaching for. It's a new arrival so sizes are currently all in stock - if interested, definitely don't miss out on this one! The jacket's cotton-blend material is of a sturdy medium weight, with a "nubbly" texture similar to tweed. The corded black piping looks very nice up close and goes all the way around the back at the bottom and neckline - yay for no shortcuts! The entire jacket is fully lined, and two front bottom pockets are functional. I'm wearing size 00 petite in these photos with no alterations. It's slightly wide in the torso and sleeves on me, but I thought the fit suited the boxier jacket style and did not warrant tailoring. I'm also having good luck at ASOS petites this year for items that don't need any alterations. Periwinkle blue is one of my favorite colors, and the classic shift one of my favorite silhouettes. The two elements meet in this knit, ribbed dress that's very easy to throw on. You do get what you pay for at ASOS so this piece is unlined and on the thinner side.
The straight lines and higher hem make the shift dress one of those cuts that just work wonderfully on smaller-chested, shorter women. I had gone a size up to US 0, but looking at these photos I possibly could've gone up another size for more skirt length. This is on the border of how short I'd go at this age, but I do love how pieces at this length enhance short legs, even with flat shoes on. One of the many things I loved about Paris was the long daylight hours. Back in Boston, Nick and I are always scrambling to take photos early before work (probably the most painful aspect of blogging because we love our sleep), since the sun sets long before we get home. Incredibly, the photos in this post were taken in France at almost 10PM! The light was fantastic for photos but did throw us off a bit, as we'd realize at sundown that we hadn't yet eaten dinner and many places were closed by then : )
Thank you to Nordstrom sunglasses for partnering on this post.
