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...

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)

Wishing for a White Christmas

WHBM soft drape wide-leg pants (3 colors) 00p + sweater xxsp c/o 

Smashbox "Cognac" lip, Prada Saffiano Cuir tote, Kate Spade heels (old)

As much as I hate the slush and salt (and shoveling!) that is the aftermath of snow, the first snowfall each season is always magical to me. I'm secretly hoping for some before Christmas, meanwhile this soft winter white pairing has me in similar spirits for now. I don't wear trousers too frequently, but am in love with the fluid drape and flattering cut of these from White House Black Market (the same style also comes in classic black or navy). Petite sizing of the cream is nearly sold out but still available in lower-maintenance darker colors. I often hear petite ladies should avoid wide-leg pants, however have to disagree. Two easy tips to help pull them off despite having shorter legs are: 1) look for styles with a higher waistline, and 2) get your pants hemmed if needed to hit just above the ground with heels on.

I've also worn these recently with a tartan shirt + navy blazer as shown below - I tucked the shirt in and chose a more cropped length blazer in order to keep the leg line long.

WHBM pants, H&M blazer, J.Crew shirt, Ann Taylor tote, Kate Spade heels

Several of you asked on this photo how to keep white pants clean...I wish there was a secret, but you just have to be more careful and wash quickly when spills/stains happen. I typically get mine hemmed about an inch off the ground (these in petites have a 29.5" inseam so didn't need any shortening!) so they don't drag on the dirty ground, and I usually only wear long trousers when I know I'll be taking a car or Uber rather than commute by foot. I also find it helps to hand-wash the hems of my pants in the sink between full launderings.

This sweater is called the convertible cowl, as you can either fold it down to wear it off both shoulders, asymmetrically just off one shoulder, or, for more conservative occasions you can keep the material up and draped in a cowl neckline:

Sizing-wise, I'm wearing both pieces here in my usual xxs/00p with no alterations. The pants are really nice quality for under $100, with a full lining with functional pockets. The slightly stretchy material feels fluid and comfy against the skin, and is even machine washable. Also, the 2-ring removable fabric belt is helpful for cinching the waist a little tighter if necessary. Here's a few other pieces that caught my eye at WHBM:

- cropped blazer (in petite & regular) - 75% off with great reviews (reviews are all under the "regular" sizing product page)! Shorter length jackets are good for creating a layered look over longer tops, or to pair with higher-waisted bottoms like I did with my navy blazer up above.

- longline blazer (2 colors; in petite & regular) - a feminine, tailored jacket still left in all petite sizes. Longer blazers are beautiful paired over slim ankle pants.

Thank you WHBM for partnering on this post! 

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.

Plaid, Bow + Sequins // Holiday office party outfit ideas

J.Crew Factory sequin skirt 00p c/o, tartan popover shirt (2 colors) xxsp

Burberry trench coat, Chanel bag, Manolo Blahnik BB pumps

I've been shopping J.Crew Factory left and right this year, so happily agreed when they asked me to share a festive outfit. They have textures and colors galore this season (plaids, metallics, sequins, knits, oh my) for mixing and matching, and their prices have been really good for the quality in my opinion. I hope you guys were able to shop my suggestions early, because sizes -at least for petite items- have been getting snapped up! I have seen a few size pop-backs like with this sequin skirt, so it doesn't hurt to check back if you really like something. This is an outfit I'd wear to a business holiday gathering - if you don't feel comfortable in a sparkly sequin skirt at work during the day, just pack it and change before the festivities. I've shared a few other ideas below that are a little more casual!

I've been wearing this flannel popover so much, ranging from super casual over leggings at home to tucked into full flared party skirts. To jazz it up a little here, I added a grosgrain ribbon which I borrowed off the waist of one of my dresses : ) So since I'm sure someone here will exclaim, aren't your legs cold?? here are some tights combos I tried on with this look:

In the winter if I want to wear an outfit that looks better sans-tights, I have no problem putting on a pair for the commute, then quickly slipping them on/off in the bathroom of my destination (which is usually pretty toasty) and storing in my purse. That's the only way I've survived the long and dreary winters here as a dress/skirt lover! If I were to do tights with this pairing, I'd go with basic black or dark gray pictured above, and shoes in the same color family.

These photos were snapped outside an adorable cooking/kitchen shop in my neighborhood called Farm & Fable. Nick and I are avid Top Chef followers so I was giddy to meet Kristen Kish there last night! It's sure been a good year for me running into my cooking idols...Ina Garten, any trips planned for Boston? : )

Here's a few other items I got to try on from J.Crew Factory which I've mentioned in past posts. I already have these key pieces in my wardrobe from over the years, but wanted to share for those who don't. I'd soundly recommend the items below for fit as well as value!

I never limit myself to just browsing the petite section, since there's often regular-sizing gems that are designed to be shrunken or cropped in fit (which translate into a normal fit on petites). Such is the case with this "cropped" cable sweater which comes in 3 colors. I'm trying on the heather natural and it also comes in a lighter classic cream. I did want to point out the cable pattern doesn't go around to the backside. The fit of an xxs regular on me is very good, hitting right at my upper hips and the sleeves just need a cuff. This wool-blend skirt is also a regular sizing item that comes in more versatile colors like solid camel, black, and a really pretty textured flecked gray. The elasticized waist measures 12" across when un-stretched, and it's fully lined with side pockets.

Center: J.Crew Factory Winnie pants 00p, Sweater xxs, Vince Camuto booties (my review)

Right: J.Crew Factory skirt sz 00 regular, Hunter boots (my review)

If your office is too casual for glitz and sequins, maybe try slim pants in a festive color with a cozy sweater. I didn't have the right shoes to go with the pants while on the road, but you can get the idea! These Winnie pants were a pleasant surprise, fitting and feeling similar to the popular BR Sloans. There are some differences listed below that will keep me a continued fan of the Sloans, but I think the Winnies are a great alternative at a lower price point. The 00p I tried measured 14" across the waist, 16" across the hips, 23.5" inseam, and 5.25" across the ankle opening. A few differences between the Winnies (features listed first below) and the Sloans:

- Side zip vs. front closure. The front closure takes more time and components to construct.
- Faux back pockets vs. real ones + small coin pocket in the front
- 23.5" inseam with no slit vs. 24" inseam (after I shrunk them in the dryer) with ankle slit
- 95% cotton, 5% elastane vs. 56% viscos, 39% cotton, 5% spandex. The latter material feels thicker when compared side by side and the waistband lining also feels sturdier. Both are tagged as dry clean only, but I take the risk and machine wash my Sloans. If anyone has experience washing the Winnie pants at home, please share. I hope they'll re-stock the sizes on these and add more colors!

Thank you to J.Crew Factory for partnering on this post!

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!

Banana Republic petites holiday work + party outfits

Fringe skirt xsp, Metallic tweed peplum top 00P, BP boots 5.5, Prada bag in pomice

Banana Republic is currently having 40% off your purchase with BRFRIENDS, and everyday free shipping & returns on orders over $50. The promo unfortunately excludes their "BR Picks" like the dress and feather top below. I haven't been there in a while and was pleasantly surprised by the selection - there were numerous pieces that I really loved and the sizing felt more petite-friendly than before! I think Marissa Webb did a great job with the design direction and I'm curious to see where the brand goes next without her.

Above, this fringe skirt has a feathery feel and is so fun for going out at night, holiday parties, or NYE. It's comfy and stretchy in the waist which is always a plus. My size was sold out so I'm trying 1 size up, which fit me decently as shown. I love the mini fit on the model and imagine that the right size would be closer to achieving that look. Please ignore the ankle booties I have on in all these pics, as a pump or strappy sandal like these would look much better with such outfits.

Banana Republic petites metallic tweed shift 00p

This dress in the same metallic tweed was my favorite, and I'd highly recommend it as a twist on the traditional sheath. The basketweave material is more gunmetal than a shiny silver like in the stock photos, and a 00P was spot-on fitted for me throughout. Fabric felt of medium weight and good quality. You can wear this on a more regular basis to the office with a long-sleeved turtleneck underneath, or a black, cream, or colored cropped blazer over it.

Crepe fringe top sz xxsp (also in black), destroyed gray jeans sz 24 /00p

Continuing with the fringe theme, this crepe fringe top also had a feathery feel and would be very fun over skinny coated jeans or leather leggings. I disagree with the reviews about the waist being too big - I think a top like this should have a straighter silhouette. These jeans were my first time trying on BR denim in a while and I loved how soft and stretchy they were. The knee hole placement was perfect but the overall length was an inch or two long on me. I brought them home as I'm in need of gray jeans for the season.

This faux pearl statement necklace is also BR - it was hanging on the rack so I tried it on with these outfits, but I personally prefer the AT version which I've posted about here. The price is better on the AT one for the same costume jewelry quality.

Left: Herringbone sheath dress 00P, Faux-fur vest xxsp

This herringbone sheath looks very Amish on me here, but try to imagine it with a more minimalistic and lengthening shoe. I was trying this on and several ladies in the fitting room asked where to find it. If this dress was executed correctly it would be a timeless sheath, but instead it has an odd fit like the online reviews mention. A 00p was very narrow on me across the shoulders and chest to the point where it was hard to lift my arms, while the hip area had extra room. On the right, this faux fur vest was very thick and warm. The material has good color depth to it with a mix of brown, taupe, and darker tones.

I also wanted to mention their outerwear included in this 40% off sale - the gray plaid one is their 3-button coat, which I reviewed at the bottom of this post in the neon lime color (please note I'm trying on 1 size up from my usual). This olive flocked hem jacket I saw in store and thought the velvet detailing on the bottom was very unique. It goes all the way around the back and looks like a higher-end design. Unfortunately there were no petites of this jacket in store so I can't report on the fit, but from the stock photos it looks to be a less fitted style than the 3-button coat.

Christmas tartan + sequined skirt // J.Crew Factory flash sale

AT cashmere (current version), J.Crew Factory plaid in xxsp (free ship w/GETGIFTING)

Accessory Concierge necklace, AT sequin skirt sz 00p + bow heels sz 5 c/o

Here's a little snippet of office holiday party outfits to come...I picked up this plaid popover shirt a few weeks ago and absolutely love the festive tartan and the petite-friendly fit. Last year's version sold out quickly so I jumped on it early this season. J.Crew Factory is having a flash sale with free shipping - I picked up a few of the items below for an early gift exchange and couldn't resist a set of flannel PJs for myself! After machine washing and drying so many times, my set in xxs regular from years ago have started to fit more like petite.

I've also tried on a few other Factory pieces recently which were a surprisingly good fit. Even in regular sizing, the elasticized waist wool-blend skirts in 00 reg which they have year after year fit me well. The sultry metallic striped dress below (another festive holiday party option) was a snug fit in 00p, and the puffer down coat was perfect for me throughout in xxsp. The coat for under $100 is an amazing value for down-filled outerwear that fits a petite frame without alterations.

I ended up buying the J.Crew regular Wintress puffer coat instead because I loved the features more, however that one is notably pricier and has a few fit issues like the sleeves being a tad short and the torso feeling snugger. I'll do a detailed review of that one soon, but wanted to share about the Factory sale while all sizes were still in stock!

Cozy layering + Talbots Friends & Family sale

Pearl & gem necklace, cable sweater sz Petite P, Laura Mercier "Red Amour" lipcolor

A-line skirt (0P altered), tights in grey, cashmere scarf - outfit c/o Talbots

Talbots' friends & family sale just kicked off - from now through 11/9, take a rare 30% off your entire purchase with code FRIENDS30! It's a little early, but I figured I'd share a holiday look that I styled for their petites page in time for this promo. The base of this outfit is a simple, warm pairing suitable for the office, and can be spruced up with a statement necklace or patterned scarf for holiday festivities.

For extra petite ladies, Talbots' numerically-sized items (pants, skirts) start at 2P, sometimes 0P so will probably not fit without alterations. I usually recommend checking out their letter sized-items instead like sweaters and tops which start in Petite P, their good quality accessories, and shoes that start in size 5. One of my favorite pieces of all time is this 100% pima cotton striped tee (which you guys have seen on me here, here, here, and here just to list a few) that's now less than $25 with the sale! I own my fair share of striped tees yet keep on reaching for this one because the material and fit feel the most comfortable. The sleeves of a Petite P were long on me off the rack, but after machine drying they shrunk to a good fit. Here's another striped pima cotton option with 3/4 sleeves, also on sale.

Another wardrobe favorite of mine is their opaque hosiery - not a glamorous item but a must for those who like to wear skirts and dresses in cooler weather. They're the right amount of opaqueness for me but still lightweight with a hint of sheerness, and the best part is they're nice and short for petite legs so no bunching! I own each of the 4 colors (most-worn is navy) which is a good starter kit for anyone tights shopping for a range of outfits. I stock up during sales to have extra pairs in-between washes, but very rarely have had to replace a pair due to wear and tear. I used to buy most of my tights at H&M but these are better quality, pilling less and with a better fit.

This cable button sweater comes in a host of colors and is a layering basic. I'm wearing Petite P which gives me room for a shirt underneath. It's a lighter weight knit and the cables go all the way around to the backside. This A-line skirt starts in sz 0P and runs generously, designed to sit lower near the hips - skirt waist measured 14" across, hips 17.75" across, length 18." I had my tailor take in the waist and along the sides, but note you can't take in this skirt too much otherwise the pockets will end up on your sides (something I realized after the fact). I like the heathered gray stretch wool blend, the cute angled pockets, and the invisible back zip and full lining, so would recommend this to those who can fit the sizing without alterations. Definitely size down if you like skirts to sit higher at your waist and not hips.
My favorite part of this look is the faux pearl & gem necklace...have gotten lots of compliments on it and people are always surprised to hear it's Talbots. I've collected several pieces of costume jewelry from there over the years, and they've held up well and are slow to tarnish (I also keep many of my pieces in zip-locked baggies to minimize oxidation). This one has good weight to it, and is a pretty accent on winter outfits plus would make a great gift. I've also been eying this green jeweled statement necklace but haven't yet seen how it looks in person.

Happy shopping! Would love to hear any of your favorites & recommendations from this sale!

Navy + Cognac // Brunch at Gaslight Boston

Maison Jules sweater, blazer and faux-leather skirt c/o

Burberry trench coat, Goyard St. Louis tote bag, similar navy pumps

For my second look with Macy's Maison Jules (see first one here), I'm sharing this easy ensemble and taking you guys inside Gaslight, one of our favorite French brasseries in Boston. They have the yummiest poached egg dishes for brunch - Nick and I usually fight over the eggs Vigneronne with a red wine, ham and mushroom sauce. I also love the rustic decor at the bar area where we usually sit.

There's something about navy with cognac brown always feels classic to me, even in trendier materials like faux leather...

I mentioned in my last post that Maison Jules ran surprisingly small and several pieces fit me off-the-rack. This cotton blazer is very shrunken-fit and cropped in length (looking at these photos, perhaps too much so for me after being dried in a machine dryer). The skirt is medium-weight faux-leather and fully lined with pockets, and an elasticized waistband that can accommodate a small range of sizes. Measurements of the skirt: 12" across waist when un-stretched that stretches up to about 13.5" across, and 18" length.

Happy Sunday brunching! And thank you to Macy's for sponsoring this post!

Fall hues: Plum, navy + grey at work (now 50% off!)

Ann Taylor skirt, turtleneck (10 colors) + open cardigan (4 colors, also in petite) c/o

Baublebar bib necklace (also at Nordstrom), Sole Society heels (similar in "taupe")

Big sale announcement today - take 50% off site-wide with code FALL50 at Ann Taylor, one of my favorite stores. I got to pick a few more new arrivals from them to review, and wanted to share my favorites of the bunch with you guys. I'm a pencil skirt girl, and the rich plum and navy hues on this one caught my eye. It fits true to size for AT pencil skirts so I did have to get the sides taken in so that it sits higher at my natural waist. I went the easy route with a top that's the same color from the pattern, but it also pairs well with neutrals like taupe and grey. Please see the very bottom of my post for the rest of my top recommendations!

I rarely wear longer cardigans with my pencil skirts (as demonstrated in this styling video) because I feel boxy when they end at the widest part of my hips. I tried on this cardigan with this outfit and surprisingly liked the results (also very cute with slim ankle pants). I think it works better because the length pushes the sweater into duster jacket territory, well beyond the hips area, and the material moves swingily to frame the skirt. I'm wearing an XS regular which was the smallest size at the time, and it's a little loose and long in the sleeves on me. It's odd, several times now I've gotten something only to see it become available weeks later either in petite, or a smaller size! I see this cardigan is now online in xxs regular and petites (albeit just one color), both of which would fit better on smaller-framed ladies. If you don't mind wearing regular sizing, I saw the baked sesame color in-person and it's a versatile light camel with pink tones, prettier in-person.

Turtleneck sweaters are a fall/winter staple and I thought this one fit nice and slim plus comes in many colors. I'm wearing my usual size xxs petite with the sleeve cuff folded up. The weight of the wool-blend material (update: I personally don't find it to be itchy - but please read the online reviews as some did) is on the thinner side so tucks well into skirts without being bulky.

For a business formal environment, swap the cardigan for a blazer (this one is from J.Crew). Speaking of J.Crew, their latest size 000 petite, as terribly unnatural as that still sounds, finally produces a pencil skirt that may no longer require alterations (and my staple No 2 wool skirt is currently on sale). I haven't tried it on yet in the new size, but according to their customer service the No. 2 wool skirt in 000p measures 12.25" waist and 15" hips, compared to their 00p with 13.5" waist and 17.25" hips - quite a big difference. Now wouldn't it be lovely if AT followed suit with a new similar size, at least for skirts and pants?

Measurements of this skirt in 00P pre-alterations: 13.25" across the waist, 16.5" across the hips, 20.25" length. The material is stretchy overall and feels like a medium-weight textured twill, with the inner waistband lined in grosgrain ribbon. It's classic pencil skirt style with an invisible back zipper and leg slit, and is fully lined. I was pleased to see the pattern was lined up on both the side and back seams!I'm late to the game with Essie's "Chinchilly" polish but better late than never...it looked more regular grey online but is a beautiful taupe-grey hue in-person. And here are some of my top recommendations from the entire Ann Taylor sale that are still available in small sizes. I've either tried on for fit or own these items, some from years ago:

- Speckled fringe sweater dress is a must for lovers of Chanel-inspired style. Every so often AT comes out with a Coco classic that just needs a strand of pearls. The last tweedy fringe jacket sold like hotcakes so I don't expect this one to be in stock long The xxsp is a comfortable, stretchy fit that hits above the knee. It's not form-fitted on me but you can add a thin belt for more waist definition. This one will transition well into winter with black or dark colored tights. And good news - the tag on the actual dress says hand wash cold, not dry clean only like the site!

- Flowy sweater skirt, now finally available in petites sizing (also in black)! No alterations needed on this one at the waist, and the stretchiness will comfortably accommodate big lunches. The material is a medium-weight, smoother tight knit and the waistband is thick and "holds" stuff in. And hooray for machine wash cold.

- Contrast tipped perfect shirt - their stretch perfect shirts in general fit me well off the rack in xxs petite. The tipping on this one is a sharp way to spruce up a basic navy button-up. This one can also be washed at home.

- Petite supersoft long cardigan - this was one of the items I was most excited about from their latest collection, unfortunately the color I wanted does not come in petites and XS regular was too oversized on me. It caught my eye most when styled chicly as a sweater coat on this page. I would've gotten this if it came in petites in either the cream or a lighter grey.

- Bright red swing coat (my review here) at a very good price for a jacket post-discounts.

- Signature tote in 3 colors - a basic, lightweight faux-leather school or work tote. See older variations on me over the years in multiple colors. The Modern Saddle color is already marked down making it just $50 after discounts.

- Per usual, my favorite layered faux-pearl necklace (see 10 ways I've styled it) or this simpler oversized pearlized necklace. They also have jewelry box-staple faux pearl studs for just $14 with great reviews.

- Fit and flare sweater dress - see my review here and it styled differently here. Please note that to get the fit shown in my photos, I shrunk mine a bit in the dryer as mentioned in my review. I was happy to see the reviews on there from readers of this blog!