Snow Day

Sorel Winter Fancy boots (size up) c/o, BR jeans (similar - love these)

ASOS oversized scarf (styling video), Saint Laurent bag, Burberry coat (review)

Hope everyone in the wake of Jonas stayed safe and warm this weekend! This was the first snowfall of the season that we were in town for, so I got up extra early to enjoy the scene around our neighborhood. We were too lazy to shovel the car though, which hopefully won't be a slippery slope like last year when it ended up iced over for 2 months straight!

Btw to get more mileage out of your "hole-y" jeans throughout winter, a layer of tights underneath kept my legs toasty and insulated! Also I wanted to mention my warm scarf is back in stock after being sold out several times this season, along with my tartan one which you guys have seen numerous times on here. Please note these are very generous in size!

Ray-ban matte brown/gold sunglasses, Old Navy mittens

I've been defaulting to the lazy high bun these days since I'm in need of a haircut. For those who've been asking - no bumpit here, just a hidden butterfly claw to help hold everything up. It takes seconds and actually stays all day for me. Will try to do a video tutorial sometime!

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!

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Birds of a Feather

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Vintage Vibes with Modcloth

B.Jones Pine fan skirt** XS (24" waist), Caf� Parfait top XS, Leaf earrings outfit c/o

Steve Madden heels sz 5, Nars Shanghai Express lipcolor

This is one of my absolute favorite times of the year, when the streets of Boston are decked out in holiday cheer (and unseasonably warm weather which I'm not complaining about!). I'm wearing this exact outfit later today to a friend's quirky holiday party, for which I thought a retro-inspired pairing would be more apt than something glitzy. Both my top & skirt are from Modcloth and run narrow in my opinion; I'm wearing XS in each with no alterations. **I've seen them offer this skirt for several years now, so if your particular size is sold out, sign up for the waitlist and I'm sure there's a good chance of a re-stock.

If you haven't shopped Modcloth before, a few of my other petite-friendly favorites that I bring out season after season include the Stripe it Lucky skirt (see on me here or here) and the Dream of the Crop cardigan (see on me here or here). I take a size S in both of those. The cropped cardigan comes in lots of colors, and is the perfect basic for styling with dresses and higher-waisted skirts when you don't want to lose your waistline.

These photos were snapped at charming Farm & Fable again, owned by one of my sweet neighbors (who is getting married today! Congrats, Abby!). I've been to many a festive gatherings there and Nick is eagerly awaiting their next cooking class. If you're visiting this corner of the South End, be sure to also pop into Polka Dog bakery aka dog heaven for canine gifts, as well as Formaggio for some cheese to feast on back home.

"I clink, therefore I am" glasses

If you're shopping for others on your list, I've pulled together a few of my favorite little gifts, each under $30! The jewelry stand looks very functional, and those peas in a pod shakers...I die. What I really wonder though when I'm browsing Modcloth is who their copywriter is, coming up with these catchy names for each item.

The design of this top takes a simple tee and elevates it with a demure off-shoulder neckline, while still providing arm coverage. It's made of a very stretchy 95% cotton, 5% spandex. When un-stretched and lying flat, an XS tee measures "14 across the armpits and about 18.5" in length. Skirt does not have stretch and is unlined with a concealed back zipper and side pockets. An XS measures 12" across the waist and 27" long.

This didn't translate in the photos, but the fan pattern on the skirt is a raised velvet which looks and feels luxe. I was thinking of getting the skirt hemmed, but Nick and friends voted to keep it at tea length for a look different from what I usually wear. I still might get it shortened closer to the knees though to be more flattering with lower shoes.

And in the holiday spirit, I'm giving away a $200 gift card towards anything at Modcloth! Simply enter via the Rafflecopter form below before Wednesday, December 16th 2015. Giveaway is open to those over 18 years of age and have a mailing address in a country that Modcloth ships to (see full list here). One entry per household, please!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thank you to Modcloth for partnering on this post.

Winter Pink + Gray // Portland, Freeport Maine travel + food diary

Sorel Winter Fancy boots c/o, H&M coat, mug, YSL crossbody bag (review)

Banana Republic jeans, Talbots tee, Macy's sweater, Old Navy mittens & hat

We love heading up to Maine every so often for a change of pace, and more importantly, the food & drink! The food scene in Portland is amazing with a lot of fresh ingredients and creative culinary minds. We like gorging at restaurants there but staying somewhere with a little more rustic charm, like Freeport. It�s a small town about 20 minutes north, home to a big outdoor outlet mall for all your holiday shopping, a 24-hour LL Bean flagship store (because you might need duck boots at 3am), and don't forget the Maine Beer Company tasting room, Nick adds!

Packing essentials: ASOS plaid blanket scarf / wrap, Sole Society Cassidy bag 

Hunter foldable rainboots (the best! also  at Zappos or Bloomingdales), Sorel snow boots

Here we are toasting our feet back in our room at the charming Haraseeket Inn, after stuffing ourselves during their complimentary tea & treats service. I adore a room with a good cozy fireplace & reading nook! Nick's tartan PJ pants are a bargain from Old Navy (he also has the snowmen print I stole here which several of you guys asked about). They're 100% cotton and shrink a bit if machine dried, so size up for your men. My husband gets quite riled up when I borrow his favorite PJs, but they're just so comfy and festive I can't help myself : ) Btw, I also picked up these cable mittens & pom pom hat while at ON - the mittens are soo soft and cozy with fleece lining on the inside!

Men's flannel PJ pants (lots of prints), Target sweater leggings

On to Portland food�our first meal was at Eventide Oyster, co-founded by a chef who worked at Clio in Boston. They make a mean brown butter lobster roll on an Asian-style pillowy bao bun. Out of all the ways to have lobster, I prefer mine in the shell (Cantonese style over noodles! mmm...see my family recipe) but if I have to have a roll, this wasn�t bad at all. Nick on the other hand is all about the lobster rolls (and any Asian bao, pretty much), so naturally this one ranked pretty high on his list. The oysters were also oh-so-fresh and briney�it kills me when I go to places and they pour out or spill the brine before serving!

For brunch the next day, we were back in Portland at a spot called Central Provisions. The cornbread with bacon & filled with an egg was TDF! This dark photo doesn't do it justice...I'm still dreaming of all its crispy bits and runny goodness. Nick has been working on perfecting his recreation of this back home. 

I did manage to get my lobster pasta fix at Street & Co, which has been at the top of my to-try list. Apparently they take reservations 2 to 3 months ahead of time (nuts!) but thankfully also have some space for walk-ins. Their famed lobster diavolo was served piping hot & fresh, with all the seafood cooked to tender perfection for about $30 less than The Daily Catch's version in Boston. It's listed as "for two" but we made about two more meals out of the leftovers alone.

Aside from the yummy food, another common theme during our Portland trip were the strong drinks. I can usually do a few cocktails before needing to call it a night, but was a 1-drink wonder everywhere we went there (cheap date for Nick!).

You guys may remember this mock-neck sweater from this post tucked into a skirt and this post styled under a vest. The cropped length lends itself to so many different layered looks, including being worn over a longer button-up plaid shirt or patterned tee like I did here. They sell a lot of tops with that faux 2-in-1 look, which is very easy to create just with two shirts of differing lengths. 

Would love to hear some of your favorite towns & places to visit in Maine for our next trip!