Cool blue + camel // Burberry Daylesmoore wool trench coat

Burberry coat sz 2 (also sold here), sleeves shortened & belt loops raised

Articles of Society jeans (hemmed), Lou & Gray top (similar), H&M scarf (similar)

Ray-Ban sunglasses, LT gloves (fits small!) Sole Society boots (similar), Coach bag

It was a frigid and windy one this weekend! I wore this triple-layered pairing of many old favorites for running errands. We got in just a few snaps before Nick's hands almost froze off - any good recommendations for photographer-friendly winter gloves? 
I first tried on this Burberry Daylesmoore coat (also referred to as their funnel-neck wool cashmere trench) in size 2 in 2013, then did a more detailed review in a size 0 last winter. I finally purchased it this winter after not having found a camel coat I loved more after all this time. I wanted to answer more of your questions on this coat, and also show why I chose the size 2.

Having tried on three years' versions of this coat, I feel like sizing has shifted to be a little slimmer over time. If you look at my 2013 post in a size 2, the coat was noticeably baggy, although I was wearing a lighter cardigan. This winter when I went coat shopping, I wore my faux leather moto jacket which I like to layer under winter coats on the coldest days. The weight was also a good representation of a thicker blazer or sweater. Please note all fitting room photos below are with this jacket on underneath!

Here is the size 0 - please excuse wrinkles as they had brought this right from storage:

Burberry Daylesmoore coat sz 0, Stuart Weitzman Lowland boots c/o (review) 

Compared to sizing on American brands, I feel the Burberry Brit line runs at least one full size small. I'm typically a 00p / xxsp in American retailers, and the size US0 coat here was very fitted on me without my extra layer. I really loved the snug feeling, until I looked at the 360 deg. pictures. As you can see in the pics above, with the extra layer on there are noticeable signs of bulging on me both at the front buttons as well as the back torso vent. I did love the narrow fit in the shoulders of this size, though.

Here is the size US 2 in comparison:

The shoulders were not as fitted on me, but the entire coat was more comfortable throughout. After reviewing these photos it was clear to me which size to get. I had my usual alterations done of shortening the sleeves and raising the belt loops. The sleeves were not super long on me and the belt loops were only about .5 to 1 inch low, so those even a little taller than me (I'm 5 feet) may not need any alterations!

Coat try-on tips: definitely try on outerwear with an additional layer, representative of what you'd typically wear on a cold day. Also, have someone else take photos of you in the coat from the front, side, and back so that you can take a closer look from all angles! This lets me see fit issues, like pulling across the back, which I'd miss otherwise.
I haven't found any super similar options for less, but here are two other camel coats that do come in extended petite sizing:
- ASOS long funnel-neck coat, starting in 00p (likely fits like 000p)! In my experience their sizing runs small (I usually wear 0 or 2P there) and their coats are on the lighter-weight side.
- J.Crew zip Melton coat, starting in 00p in three neutral colors.

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!

Little red (bow back) riding hood // J.Crew Factory puffer review

Soprano dress XS (worn with my NuBra), ASOS blanket scarf, Steve Madden heels 5.5

I wanted to share a few more photos of this bow-back dress, which has just been re-stocked in all sizes (Update: for some reason page just became "not available" - maybe it'll be back up in a bit!). It's on backorder until after the holidays, but makes a darling cocktail dress for year-round. I'm wearing an XS regular...it looked very high-waisted on the model so I had hope, and sure enough it's petite-friendly! Measurements are: 12.25" across the waist, 13.5" from top to waistline, and 32.5" total length. It does come pretty wrinkled, but you can iron it at home on medium heat inside-out. The dress is fully lined, with a double lining at the skirt plus hidden tulle layer to help hold the fit & flare shape.

I also snapped a few photos of this Factory puffer coat below before sending it back (as you guys know, I got the faux fur hooded version reviewed here instead). For those who don't care for the furry hood, I thought this is a steal for a puffer coat that fits a petite frame. There's just a few remaining in petite sizing so don't miss out if you wanted this!

J.Crew Factory coat xxsp, LOFT jeans 24p, BP boots 5.5, Clinique lip "mega melon"

Unlike the J.Crew regular wintress coat which I thought ran small with short sleeves, I found this to fit true to size with room for layering. The sleeve length was also amply long enough for the "thumb holes" to comfortably reach and hook over my thumbs. The hood is removable, and the pockets are lined in cozy fleece with snap button closures.

And one last picture of this red dress from another angle (ps - my pearlized statement necklace is 50% off today. They make great little gifts for friends!) ~

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!

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.

Friends & Family sales: LOFT Camel coat + olive legging jeans

LOFT olive legging jeans sz 24p (5 colors) and wool-blend coat in xxsp (3 colors)
Talbots striped tee sz Petite P, Sole Society booties sz 5.5

The pre-Thanksgiving F&F sales are rolling in, including 25% off site-wide for Kate Spade (one of my go-to's for holiday gifts) with GIFTED, 40% off at Ann Taylor with FRIENDS40 including new arrivals that hit yesterday, and also 40% at LOFT with code SHAREIT. I get a lot of questions on the olive skinny jeans I wear constantly, but they're an older style by 7FAMK. I've tried on several alternatives from a wide price range and these LOFT sateen 5-pocket legging jeans were the best dupe I've found, plus are very affordable with this sale! They come in 5 colors and in regular, petite, and tall sizing...

I'm trying on a 24P which was a snug fit, and the length is great for shorties (just cuffed up once with these booties). I'm always surprised by how slim LOFT's skinny jeans run compared to their skirts and pants, which I almost always need to get altered. The sateen material is not a shiny one (like what I typically mentally associate with "sateen"), more with a sueded feel and the color is a true dark olive. LOFT also makes a coated legging jean that fits equally great. The carbon color is a fun alternative to plain black jeans and the brandywine is beautiful in-person.

On to this coat - for several years now I've been shopping for a classic, belted camel coat. The top contenders for me each year remained the J.Crew's popular icon trench (see my past review) and Burberry Brit's camel coat (see my past review). The J.Crew had great details but a boxier cut and the Burberry was better but at a much steeper price point, so I wanted to take time and shop around more. You would think there'd be more options for such a staple piece! Years later I'm still camel-coatless and didn't want to go any longer without one. I finally took the plunge with the Burberry (got a size 2 for layering room and shortened the sleeves) which of course has gone up in price during the time I've been hemming and hawing away, but I hope the number of wears over the next few years will make it a worthwhile splurge.

I'll be showing more of that coat soon, but as a look-for-less, I wanted to do a quick review on this LOFT belted coat. It's not too similar, but is one of the very few camel coat options I've found this year, especially since the J.Crew icon trench in camel sold like hotcakes before Fall barely began. It is single breasted, and a slight A-line cut when unbelted.

The style has a funnel neck like the Burberry  which can be worn folded down, or propped up for full neck/lower chin coverage on brisk days. The material is a 50% wool blend which I found to be ~ medium weight. The quality of the material was average, nothing to write home about but I haven't seen better options at the sale price point. I thought it fit true to size for LOFT coats and my usual xxsp had room for thick layers underneath. Details-wise, I like the classic shoulder epaulettes and button tabs by the wrists, however I never understand why coat pockets have upper openings instead of side/slanted for easier hand entry!

Banana Republic 3-button tailored coat sz XSP (also in grey plaid)

As part of this LOFT sale I ordered the coated legging jeans and plaid funnel neck coat to try - I'm iffy about what the coat material will be like, but am in love with the taupe/ gray/ brick red color scheme and how it goes with almost everything I've been wearing lately. UPDATE: the coated legging jeans are amazing and a definite keep - would highly recommend. The coat pattern is great and fit in xxsp is also good on me for a coat, but the material is not high quality...will be trying it on more and deciding on that one.

Banana Republic actually also makes a plaid gray coat in petites which I saw in store and thought was nice quality. The pattern doesn't speak to me as much, but I wanted to mention their 3-button coat in general which I hope they'll make in more colors/patterns! I tried on the bright neon version of the same coat above in XSP (my usual size was sold out in-store) and was impressed by the tailored yet classic feminine look - a nice alternative to the J.Crew lady day. It was just a little big so I think my usual Banana Republic size would've fit perfectly. The bright lime was too bright as a coat even for this neon-lover (however there are lots of 5-star reviews for it already online), but check out the grey plaid for a more muted look.

Petite-friendly fall boots: Corso Como Laura over the knee

Corso Como Laura boots (3 colors, on sale) - also at Amazon & Zappos, J.Brand jeans

Leith cardigan XS, AT cashmere (current version), Prada bag, Baublebar necklace

I told you guys there'd be no shortage of boot reviews this season - today I wanted to show the Corso Como Laura boot, one of the look-for-less suggestions from my Stuart Weitzman post. They're currently on sale and you can use code 20VETERANS on Amazon for extra 20% off (Nordies will price adjust if the same size & color are in stock)! These are similar to my SWs in the general sense of flat, tall suede boots, but have a few notable differences that make them more comparable to the SW signature 50/50s instead. The Low lands are made entirely of stretch suede whereas these and the 50/50s have a stretch back panel made of fabric. Also, these are true OTK boots hitting right above the knees like the 50/50s, whereas the Low lands are more mid-thigh height boots.

Also, quick note about the waterfall cardigan I'm trying on above...I had been eyeing this one for a while but was worried it'd be too long on a petite frame. After seeing lots of petite ladies pull off the "maxi" cardi, I decided to give it a try and love the look! The regular XS is a pretty good casual fit except the longer sleeves, which I fold up. I ended up returning this olive one after the tan color I had been waitlisted for popped back in stock - will do a post in more detail soon, but wanted to show this equally pretty color while it's still in stock & on sale!

Quality: I lightened the photo above which makes the suede look splotchy, but it's an even-toned, thicker weight suede in person. There's a partial leather lining along the edges (you can see the brown leather in the pic above peeking out from the interior). The entire boot feels of good quality and sturdily made.

Talbots tee, Sole Society scarf & wool hat, H&M faux leather skirt (similar)

Comfort & Sizing: Foot sizing-wise, I found these to be true to size. I'm usually between a 5 and 5.5 in most brands, and a 5.5 here was a good fit in the foot area. For reference I am a 5 in SW as that brand tends to run a little big. I did not keep these so again can't speak to long-term comfort, but there were no areas of irritation or rubbing when I tried these on. There are small zippers on the inside ankle to facilitate getting these on, which are also helpful for yanking down skinny jeans that get bunched up.

Fit: These are on the slim side out of all boots I've tried, but not as slim as the SW boots. The calf area is a decent fit just grazing over my calves, but for boots like these I like a snug stretched fit. For reference, my calves measure 12.5" around and my lower thighs where these hit measure 14" around. The suede front panel is thick which gives it structure, so if the circumference is too loose, the shaft won't fall down immediately but I can see it gradually slouching down as you walk. These were a better fit on me with jeans but still had a gap at the upper back opening. Would recommend to those who can fill these out more.

Measurements of a 5.5: 4.5" across ankles, 6 and 5/8th" across top opening, 6.5" across calves (note to factor in some width accounted for by the thicker boot material). 21" high front shaft, 17" high back shaft excluding heel, and 0.75" heel.

Nordstrom is having a huge fall clearance sale right now with lots of boots, sweaters, designer denim & more included - my favorite way to browse sales is to filter by size and price. If you're looking for an OTK boot with a small block heel, these Via Spiga ones (currently 40% off) look of promising quality with a 21" shaft height and narrow shaft circumference starting at 12" around! Another narrow-calf sale boot are the Stuart Weitzman "Playtime" (40% off & starts in size 4.5) which are a flat suede boot with a sneaker sole.

PS - if you purchased the Ivanka Trump Saffri boots (see my detailed review) recently from Nordstrom, a few readers have mentioned that they live chatted online and got price adjustments to match the current sale at Bloomingdales (they are marked down plus extra 25% off with HOLIDAY) making them just $94! Please note the exact color and size that was purchased needs to be in stock on the sale site in order to qualify for an adjustment.

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!

Lady in Red at LA Urban Light

Ann Taylor coat & dress in xxs petite c/o
Steve Madden heels (runs narrow)

We flew to SoCal recently for our friends' wedding and decided to spend some extra time in the area. Compared to Boston it's a bit of a heat wave here, but the abundance of good eats sure makes up for it! These photos were taken by the Urban Light display in LA - it's a tourist favorite but still leaves me in admiration each time.

Ann Taylor let me pick out pieces from their most recent collections to review - I chose the flared sweater dress last shown here, and also wanted to post these bold red pieces that I thought were notably petite-friendly. The style of the jacket feels like a nod to the timeless coats that Audrey Hepburn liked to wear. It first reminded me of this one, from the flattering swing silhouette (one of my favorite cuts) down to the collar and bracelet-length sleeves. With the collar popped up (see stock images), it felt reminiscent of her bright tomato funnel-neck number made famous in the movie Charade. The fit of an xxs petite is slim in the shoulders and sleeve width, which I think is key for swing-style pieces.

The material of the coat, although an entirely synthetic blend, feels of sturdy weight and good quality, as mentioned in the online reviews. Some said it's a very heavy coat, which I think will definitely differ based on where you're from. In my opinion it'd be suitable for ~60 degree F weather down to ~40 with a sweater layered underneath. The buttons are sturdily sewn on and covered with fabric, the jacket is fully lined, and there are two front pockets. The curved "shirttail" hem on both sides gives the swing cut a little something extra.

On to this sheath dress - I usually get my Ann Taylor dresses altered to fit so was surprised that this dress was fairly fitted on me off the rack. Reading the online reviews, several shoppers mentioned they had to go up one or two sizes from their usual size. I found the cap sleeve and V neck cut to be flattering at the d�colletage area without revealing too much. I wore this, sans coat, to some pre-wedding festivities.

The stretchy fabric in a poly blend feels reminiscent of lightweight wool crepe on some of my Theory pieces. The downside is it is unlined, and I can see it'd be unforgiving with bra and panty lines if it were any more form-fitting, like some reviewers also noted. For dresses like this, I hope AT will listen to their customers and include a lining in the future.

Measurements of coat in xxsp: 13.6" across shoulders, 16.5" across bust, 20" long sleeves (bracelet length), 30" long. These are outer measurements, so please account for thickness of the material and lining.

Measurements of dress in xxsp: 15.25" across bust, 12.5" across waist, 33" long