Cable + Fringe

J.Crew factory chambray shirt, Anthropologie sweater c/o (almost sold out, similar)

AoS jeans (hemmed), Stuart Weitzman boots c/o, LOFT scarf (old), Prada bag (review)

This comfy sweater poncho has gotten its fair share of wear from me this season! I know a few of you have it as well, so I'd love to hear how you've been styling it. I usually do my basic striped tee underneath, but have been liking chambray too with the sleeves exposed and cuffed. My only complaint is I can't wear anything over this other than my cape coat (not pictured) due to the connected sleeves...but that's a poncho for ya, I guess!

Just a quick post today on this short but hectic week. We're excited to relax a bit tomorrow at a "post-holiday" holiday party (really the best kind of holiday party). Hope you all have a great weekend, and DC-area friends, hope you're getting ready to hunker down with lots of wine stocked up!

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!

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! 

Instagram Lately // Festive Fringe + Christmas Tea at Taj Boston

LOFT coat (trying on xxsp), Prada bag, J.Crew striped turtleneck tee sz xxs

Stuart Weitzman Highland boots sz 5 (similar for less)

Happy Sunday! I wanted to do a quick recap and answer some of your questions on these posts from my Instagram. I kept trying on & debating over this LOFT coat but decided to return it in the end. The pretty soft taupe & gray color scheme was the primary draw for me - it fits right in with my most-worn hues and would be very easy to pair. Ultimately I already splurged on another coat this year so want to give that one all the wear it can get. On another note, I've been in love with my Stuart Weitzman Lowland boots (last posted here) which get wear aplenty - enough to compel me to get the Highland heeled rendition. The chunky heels are Nick-approved; they're stable and don't get stuck in sidewalk cracks, so I can better keep up with his pace!

Nautica PJ shirtdress XS (also sold here), BR fringe skirt xsp (review), AC pearls

Yesterday I enjoyed one of my favorite holiday traditions with my girlfriends - afternoon tea at the Taj! We usually spend well over three hours there, getting buzzed on caffeine and treats while exchanging gifts. I ended up getting this BR skirt during a recent sale and really like it for festive occasions. My usual size was sold out both online and in stores so I went a size up (it fits but I'd prefer a little more fitted/shorter for a fun piece), however I saw they just restocked xxsp! It goes with so many tops, even my pajama dress which I was wearing before getting ready, ha! I'd recommend this comfy shirtdress for lounging at home and possibly outside (I'm definitely guilty of donning PJs in public)...it's a cozy, soft cotton flannel which never fails to get me in a Christmasy mood!

Below, I'm so bummed that this shirt sold out of small sizes within a matter of days. I'm a sucker for drapey, wrap-style shirts, and this knit one was love at first wear. I have seen random sizes pop back in stock, so it doesn't hurt to bookmark & check back if you really wanted it.

Soprano shirt xs, Ann Taylor scarf, Goyard bag, Loft jeans 24p, Baublebar necklace

I only get to see my younger brothers once or twice a year so miss them dearly. Whenever together, we love to bake treats then gorge on them over Pixar movie marathons. The last time I went back to my parents' house, I left my clothes strewn about everywhere which apparently left quite the impression on my brothers! It inspired these sugar cookies of my outfits, which I almost couldn't bear to eat.

Last but not least, I've gotten more messages about the wrapping paper below...they're all by Sugar Paper brand from good ole' Target! Sugar Paper makes the cutest gift wrap & packaging, sure to be appreciated by your gift recipient (or at least will look pretty under the tree)!

Old Navy mens PJ pants sz S (shrunken in dryer & stolen from Nick)

What to Wear: Napa Valley or vineyard wedding guest

Vero Moda dress xxsp, Hei Hei vegan bomber jacket xxsp c/o, Prada bag in Pomice

Continuing the what to wear series, today I'm answering the popular question of what to wear to a vineyard wedding or event. Napa must be quite the spot, and no wonder, it's so scenic there! Since vineyard events are usually at least partially outdoors against lush greenery or gardens, I would start by choosing something flowy and romantic vs structured or tight. A maxi or knee-length dress in soft printed fabric, silk or chiffon should work perfectly. As temps may drop quite a bit in the evenings there, bring a cropped jacket or a wrap to drape around your shoulders. Also, if any part of the event will be on grass, I'd recommend wedges instead of heels unless you enjoy aerating the lawn! I was just visiting for the weekend so had my large tote bag with me, and would definitely suggest a clutch bag instead for a special event.

This Hei Hei faux leather jacket was recommended by a petite friend of mine, and seems to be rather popular based on the customer reviews. The fit is slightly cropped and narrow, a snug fit on me in my usual size. I wore it for the Anthropologie event in San Francisco where I had an amazing time meeting and getting to know some of you! I only wish there was more time to chat with everyone who kindly took the time to come.

Speaking of Anthro, I just saw they are having a rare 25% off all dresses and free shipping over $150 for a limited time w/ code HURRAH. The Byron Lars Carissima dress I picked out for the event is very petite-friendly and romantic in design. It comes in 3 colors and is of beautiful quality (scroll down for detailed photos). For dressier occasions, ,y other pick is this stunning embellished long dress by Moulinette Soeurs which starts in size 00p. I have a frock by this brand that is also great quality which I wear repeatedly...would've gotten this if I didn't already have a too similar blue & white maxi.

The Carissima dress is one of Anthro's perennial favorites which they have in stock year after year. I liked reading through the online reviews and seeing how it fits on different body types / sizes. I'm wearing a 00p with no alterations needed! It's hard to tell just looking at it, but there is a tan camisole dress slip lining the entire dress except at the neckline and sleeves. The base material is stretchy, sturdy and of a thicker weight. There's lots of mixed textures in the design including lace, crochet, ribbon, and a twill-like fabric. Everything was finished with care, such as with reinforcements at the hem and zipper.

Tip: I did have an issue with the front hook-and-eye closures coming undone (quite a surprise the first time I wore it!), but it was an easy fix. Simply use jewelry pliers or tweezers to compress the hooks tighter (after hooking into the eye) for the ones that you want to be securely closed. There is a back zipper entry so you don't actually need the hooks for functionality! I did this for the hooks from the chest down to about mid thigh, since I liked a little leg slit opening.

Photos credit my friend Ping : )

And here's a few other flowy options that'd be beautiful for attending a vineyard wedding! (tho I would do neutral sandals instead of stark black booties with the third dress...what odd styling!)

Wine + Gray: fall weekend in Napa Valley

J.Crew turtleneck xxs, Prada bag in "pomice," ASOS square blanket scarf

LOFT coated legging jeans sz 24p, Sole Society hat + booties (also sold here)

Just popping in with a quick hello from Napa! Burgundy + gray is my current favorite color combo, perfect for fall and also for my klutzy self to conceal spilled snacks and drinks from wine tasting fun. As mentioned in my last post, I would highly recommend these coated legging jeans or the sateen version (my review), which both come in several versatile colors. They rival some designer coated denim I've tried on, at a pretty affordable price!

I had been looking for a wool hat in the perfect taupe-gray color, and this one did not disappoint! I got it a few weeks ago and have been excited to wear it at every opportunity. The versatile color pairs well with most fall neutrals and colors, and the fit is like an H&M Medium which works well on my head. I sometimes feel a little silly in hats (Nick teasing me as "Indiana Jean" doesn't help), but I found this one to be easy to wear and more classic than "western."


I'm also excited to share this plaid blanket scarf is back in stock! (Update: it's sold out again but here are all of their oversized square blanket scarve patterns - I also have the white-based check on which you guys see often!). Here's my old video tutorial again on how to style these blanket scarves. When eating or on long car rides, I usually just have it folded in half in a triangle and draped over my shoulders like a shawl. The quality is fair for what I would expect for the price. A few ladies have told me their scarves shed fuzz most visible on black garments, so you may want to keep tape or a lint roller handy.

Ivanka Trump over the knee boots (Stuart Weitzman Highland look for less)

Ivanka Trump "Saffri" boots in 3 colors, also sold at Bloomingdales, Zappos, and Lord & Taylor
Prada saffiano cuir bag, Anthropologie sweater c/o, AoS jeans, Talbots tee

I'm a big fan of the fit and quality of Stuart Weitzman OTK boots, but wanted to share some lower-priced alternatives as well. Ivanka Trump makes several styles each year similar to the popular SW Highland boot, with a stretch suede-y upper, almond toe and tapered block heel. I have a few pairs of shoes from this brand and find them to be pretty fair quality for the prices (these suede lace up flats are my new favorite as seen on me here - they were comfortable for me out of the box and high quality for the price).

Please note that some of the boots from this brand are real suede and some are a faux-suede fabric. Both are sold at similar price points so be sure to read the descriptions to avoid disappointment. The "Saffri" boot I'm reviewing today comes in 3 colors and is faux suede.

Fit: I'm a 5-5.5 in most brands, and have a few styles of Ivanka Trump shoes where I'm a solid 5.5. The 5.5 in these were a good fit in the foot area, however the leg area was a little loose. With OTK boots I like the material to be pretty snug otherwise it can be prone to sliding down as you walk. However it's a challenge to find for narrow legs, and these are admittedly better than most brands I've tried. When worn over high socks (mine are these from ASOS) these did fit slightly more snug but still felt prone to sliding down. When worn over medium-weight jeans they fit better than the socks, but I'd want to be able to wear with skirts and dresses without slippage. I would expect shaft width to vary based on shoe size, so a size 5 should fit a little more snug throughout.

Measurements of a 5.5: 4.5" across the ankle, 6.25" across the calf, 7" across the widest point at the thigh opening, heel is slanted ranging from 3.25-3.75" high, and the shaft height is also slanted ranging from 18.5 to 20.5" high (excluding heel).

Ann Taylor turtleneck + sweater skirt c/o, Baublebar necklace

Comfort: I didn't keep these so can't speak to comfort while walking, but they didn't pinch anywhere and blocked heel felt stable. I liked the inner zipper by the ankles because it makes getting the boots on easy, plus you can reach in and tug down at the ankle of pants to fix any bunching. However, as you can see in the upper right photo, the zipper can cause some bunching at that area if the fabric isn't stretched taut against your legs.

Quality: I personally prefer a thicker, genuine suede to "suede-feel" fabric for something like boots which I expect to wear for years to come. For a fraction of the SW Highland price, the overall look and the outer side of the faux suede isn't bad but please note it is thin (about half the weight of the Highlands for reference). If you like the black option, check out the similar Surlia boot that's listed as genuine suede. UPDATE: A reader below mentioned that the Surlia is mis-listed and is actually fabric and not real suede like the website inidicates.

The Best Columbus Day Weekend Sales

J.Crew blazer (current version), BR shirt (similar gingham in petites & on sale)

J.Brand jeans, Zara heels (similar), Prada tote

Happy Friday! Sharing one of my easy, go-to outfits from Instagram as well as a few Columbus Day weekend sales as they are rolling in. Be sure to check back as I'll be updating here with new sales as well as any reviews...


J.Brand - take 25% off cropped style jeans with code CROP25, with free everyday shipping. I often look for cropped or ankle styles as they may turn out to be a perfect fit on shorter legs without alterations. Most of these cropped styles have a listed inseam of 26 to 27 inches which is what I usually look for.

J.Crew - *Update* free shipping with no minimum at J.Crew & Factory (including the petites gingham shirt linked above), Monday only. 30% on most items with code WEEKEND. This is the best discount I've seen their signature lady day coat (see on me) on sale for yet this year, and sizes and colors are already going. I'm in need of a classic camel coat and am seriously considering the lady day again in their new dark camel color. Other versatile items included in sale - layering tops like the vintage tee (I'm constantly in the heather graphite one), petite down vest (see fit on me), and their popular Cambridge cable sweater in a host of color choices. I also have their Regent coat in ivory in a 00P - see a quick try-on photo here.

Banana Republic - 40% off your purchase with code BRSAVE, with up to 50% off select winter essentials. I recently picked up these sloan-fit charcoal trousers which have a nice, medium-weight tweedy texture to them (see on my Instagram).

Old Navy - extra 30% off all items including sale, no code needed (discount reflected in cart), or use code YOUCHOOSE for 40% off 1 item. I just saw they make puffer vests in petite sizing in tons of colors for just $25, and this tipped open poncho is also under $25.

Ann Taylor - 40% off full-priced items & extra 60% off sale items with SHOPFALL. A few items on extra sale that have good reviews and are still in stock in petite sizes: polka dot cardigan, chevron shirtdress.

Express - 40% off sweaters, jeans, and outerwear, prices as marked. This is stackable with their $25 off evert $100 you spend promo, using code 1323.

Anthropologie - take 20% off dresses with code DRESSCODE. You can filter by size - they carry down to xxsp / 00p.

Rainy Day Classics

Hunter Rainboots sz 5, Burberry trench (old, sz 2 with sleeves altered), Clinique lipbalm

Prada tote, H&M scarf, Talbots tee sz petite P, J. Brand jeans sz 24 (old, similar)

On dreary rainy days I love incorporating a pop of color to brighten up my outfit. These Hunter "Tour" boots are the perfect statement piece that's not only functional, but surprisingly easy to style. They are still the slimmest-calf and lightest rubber rain boot I've found. As mentioned in my older review, these are designed to be roll-able and packed away for travel so are very pliable as well. I also own the green color and both get quite a bit of wear.


I also wanted to share another color of the Clinique Chubby Stick (am obsessed with these)...they come in "intense" for more pigmented color and also regular, which are great for those just starting to experiment with lipcolor. I have dry lips so love that they glide on and keep my lips moisturized like a lip balm, but also have build-able color. I have the regular for daily wear and a few of the intense line for bolder looks. I'm wearing "mightiest maraschino" here which is a vibrant cherry red with a tint of fuchsia.


I kept the rest of my outfit neutral with a hint of print - there's something very basic but classic about pairing red with shades of tan. This caramel Prada from 3 years ago is still one of my favorite bags in my collection, and has held up really well with the addition of a base shaper. I'm not afraid to take it out in damp weather (with an umbrella, of course) due to the water-resistant saffiano coating. As some of you may have seen on Instagram, I've been shopping for a new bag and this red Prada Promenade is a serious contender, given how easy to maintain the material is from my experience.

Thank you to Neiman Marcus x ShopStyle for sponsoring this post!

How to style a poncho sweater + gloves for short fingers

Forever21 sweater, Hermes belt, Tory Burch tote, BP boots (runs small)

J.Brand Maria jeans - on sale + extra 40% off (mine are 2013 version, sz 24 hemmed) H&M hat

Wishing each of you a happy and healthy 2015! Thanks so much to those of you who took the time to share a bit about yourself back in my Nordstrom giveaway post (congrats to the winners!). I read every single entry and am amazed by the ambitious, accomplished, warm and interesting individuals who read this blog. So many of your comments made me smile or inspired me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading and for supporting my creative outlet over the years.

Middle + right: Halogen leopard heels (sold out, similar), Prada tote, Lord & Taylor gloves

I'm starting off the new year with a few simple ways to style a poncho sweater. I love my share of tailored, fitted pieces, but sometimes there's nothing more chic than an oversized but well-draping garment. I spotted this sweater on my stylish friend Elle and didn't waste time to order. The shipping cost was well worth it to me (free shipping today for orders over $21!) if it meant not having to navigate through three floors of teenyboppers and overflowing racks in disarray.

As expected for a one-size-fits-all poncho, the sweater is long for someone 5 feet tall but the medium-weight knit drapes well and the design is very cozy. After playing around with the styling, I love the half-belted look which adds slight waist definition and can also shorten the length a bit. I looped the belt through the armholes, in between my back and the back of the sweater (note: not around the outer back of the sweater), and after buckling the belt I pulled a little excess length fold-over style above the belt. I also like the simple front-tucked look which keeps the leg line long while maintaining a slouchy, oversized silhouette in the back. Wearing dark bottoms with similar-colored shoes also gives off a minimalistic, lengthening look on the bottom to offset the more voluminous top half.

I'm wearing this sweater in two slight variations here - one with low ankle booties and a hat for a more boho-inspired pairing, and another just changing up the accessories to pointed pumps and a structured satchel for a more classic look.

I also want to point out the lighter brown silk-lined leather gloves in the latter pairing which are a recent find from Lord & Taylor. This was the first pair of adult gloves I've tried on ever where there was minimal excess in the tips for my short fingers! I had gotten used to the excess "hollow fingertips" and thought I'd be doomed to those for a lifetime. From the palms side, these in a size 6 measure about 7cm for the middle finger and 6.5cm for the pointer finger.
The fit of a size 6 in these silk-lined gloves was also very slim, and was an overall snug fit on my hands. I tried on Lord & Taylor's other glove styles, including the cashmere-lined ones, and they did not fit as short in the fingers as these silk-lined ones. I picked "British Tan" out of the 9 colors though might've gone for the darker "Saddle" had that been available in-store. Would highly recommend these with the extra 20% off coupon for fellow short and narrow-fingered ladies.

Ann Taylor stripe tee (old), Sheinside c/o cape (review), BP trolley ankle boots (runs small)