Stylish Petite | Fashion, Reviews and Petite Style: December 2010

Friday, December 31, 2010

Review: Banana Republic Suede Hina Slouch Suede Boots in Size 5

I have been looking for a pair of flat brown/camel boots, leather or suede for awhile now. I hardly ever wear flats but realized I just can't shop in heels anymore. It's just not right to suffer in that much pain while hunting for deals. So besides my Uggs, which are not attractive but comfortable as heck- I have no other flat shoes/boots. I came across this one online when BR was having their sale a couple of weeks ago and decided to give them a try because they seemed really cute online and the price was about $105 before tax.

Boots: Banana Republic Hina Suede Boots in Spice color- size 5 (buy HERE)

Please excuse the non-cute outfit, I was mainly trying to focus on the boot review:)

Here is the sideview with my GAP legging jeans in faded dark in 00 wash tucked in.

(sorry Blogger deleted all my photos)

Here is the back view. See there is the cute cuff with slit on the back. This is one of my fav details.

Here is a closer side view shot so you can see the circumference. Not bad, a bit of a gap but it leaves room to tuck in your jeans. The boots didn't seem to be THAT comfortable, the left foot bed seemed a bit hard on the ankle area, not sure what that is from.

Material is 100% genuine suede. Very high quality except there was a slight bald spot on the first boot near the side- do you see it? That bugged me!

Bottom of the shoe is rubber so it doesn't make too much noise- which is perfect for me while I am shopping. I am a heavy walker in heels so everyone thinks an elephant is stomping around when it's just petite me!

Price: Was ~~$225~~, on sale for ~~$149~~ plus 30% off = $105

Not bad for genuine suede boots!

The heel measures 3/4" which is nice because it's not entirely flat. Quality of Banana Republic boots was surprisingly great! The box and everything it came in was very well packaged. The details on the stitching was excellent. Besides the few bald spots, the boot was very well made. From my understanding, Clark actually makes Banana Republic boots per the SA at the store. Not sure if this is 100% true but that's what I heard.

Style: I love the whole slouchy look of suede boots because leather boots always tend to wrinkle at the ankle area so this definitely is avoided by selecting slouchy suede boots. The color is SPICE which I do love. I wear A TON of neutrals especially when shopping so this color would match with pretty much everything.

The shaft height measures 16" which is a bit tall for my taste. Unless you are going for OTK (over the knee look), this is too much for my short legs. It almost is overwhelming. The circumference is 15.5 inches which isn't too bad when wearing skinny jeans tucked in but alone, it was too wide. I prefer my shaft height to be 14" tall and the circumference to be 14" as well. I do not have tiny calves by any means but they are small enough where it is tough to find boots that fit my calves.

VERDICT: Return, don't love it even for the good price. I think it's cute but not cute enough for me to keep.

I found these Cole Haan Liberty Flat Boots in chocolate in size 5 on major sale at Nordstrom's, made the mistake of tweeting it and someone bought the last pair of 5's! Now the chocolate is completely sold out! I am so bummed!:(

What are your thoughts? Any suggestions for me on nice flat boots? I think I want leather instead of suede. I have 4 pairs of suede high heel boots so for the flat ones, I'm thinking brown leather.

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Petite Secret Santa

Thank you to Jess from TheLittleDustPrincess for setting up the first Petite Secret Santa! I thought it was such a fun and great idea for the petite blogging community to be apart of. Continue reading to see who I drew and who my petite secret santa was!

Top: LOFT Portrait Collar Blouse- size XXSP (buy HERE)

Skirt: H & M grey pencil skirt- size 2

Belt: Ann Taylor Perfect Patent Skinny Belt in granite- size XS (buy HERE)

Shoes: Cole Haan Talia Pumps- size 5 (buy HERE)

So my petite secret santa ended up to be Erin from TheLifeofAnnJames! She got me the Ann Taylor Perfect Patent Skinny belt (in granite) in XS!!!! I have been longing for this XS belt but it was never avail online. And the funny thing is that on Black Friday, I found the same belt at the Ann Taylor Outlet for 50% off in XS so I had no choice but to pick that one up (not knowing Erin had gotten this for me).

And I was naughty because I was supposed to stop buying myself the items that I put on my wishlist...heheheh *oopsie*! The best part is the AT belt she gave me is way better quality and is about 1" shorter than the AT outlet belt I bought! So I will keep the one I bought as a back-up! I love this belt so much- look how many outfits

Do you see a purple/pink and grey pattern? I was laughing when I put all these outfits together! Obsess much? LOL And I am wearing my Cole Haan grey suede pumps with each outfit! I get a bit crazy with a new item and tend to wear it to death! I will try to wear diff colors in 2011- I promise! At least I like my belt right?

She also got me a pink pearl necklace which you all know I love pearls and a cute card!!! I am sure I will get a lot of use out of both my belt (clearly) and my pink pearl necklace! So thank you Erin!!! Now who did I get to buy for? *Drum Roll*......I got Kelly from AlterationsNeeded!!! I started to panic at first because we all know she has amazing style and taste and how was I going to possibly shop for someone like her? :) And plus, she is like the reason why most of us started blogging in the first place! So I was super nervous because I had to make sure that my gifts were well thought out and carefully picked! But luckily, I was able to come up with some ideas for her and I pray she likes her gifts!!

*fingers crossed*

I am super excited to see who everyone else got and their goodies! Thanks Jess again for coordinating everything! It was super fun!

Monday, December 27, 2010

Lookbook: H & M Pencil Lace Skirt

Hope everyone had a fantastic Holiday weekend! I went after Christmas shopping but didn't find too much which was kind of a bummer (but may be a good thing for my wallet). But what I did find was this infamous H & M lace skirt that everyone has been raving about! I actually found two of them which was a miracle! Usually I only find one size 2 in any skirt but I think it was fate that I found an extra one!

Sweater: J.Crew Merino Placket Cardi in Ivory- size XXS (buy here)

Skirt: H & M Lace Skirt- size 2 (similar here and here)

Pin: LOFT flower felt pin (bought on ebay)

Belt: Ann Taylor Perfect Patent Skinny Belt- size XS (buy here)

Shoes: Christian Louboutin Simple 100's- size 5 (buy here)

This photo was taken in my upstairs reading alcove near my loft. I am trying to test out different areas in my house to see which has the best lighting.

See this skirt on Kelly and Elle. They both look great in it! Leave it to AN to find this amazing tiny skirt! I was amazed at how perfect the fit was. Usually H & M skirts are a bit wide on the hips and through the thighs but this was narrower. And the waist fit PERFECTLY! I got an extra one and already shipped it to Vicky. I can't wait to see her in it!

I tucked in my J.Crew cardi inspired by Jean. Do you guys like it?

I know black and white are so boring but I love the color combo. It's simple and clean! I added the Ann Taylor black patent skinny belt because I wanted to break up the lace a little bit. And I am so obsessed with their XS belts! I thought it was impossible to find a tiny skinny belt that fits my waist! It's much easier to find thick stretchy belts that fit.

I didn't think I could wear this to work but I am wearing it today and love it!

The length is so perfect, hits right at the knee. I think any shorter and it may look a bit less conservative. Since there is so much lace going on, the longer length definitely makes it look less racy (if that makes any sense). I would probably wear this with black nylons but mine had a run in them and my black tights were too opaque so I went bare legs for this post.

Some similar lace skirts I found was the LOFT scalloped lace skirt, and this Forever 21 lace skirt. I had about 5 minutes before work to snap these off so sorry they are not great photos! I will be getting a nice camera very soon so I hope to give you nicer photos and videos!Here is the back of the skirt so you can see the fit. I think the fit is great, what do you think?

Friday, December 24, 2010

J.Crew Haul: Take 2

Happy Holidays! Is everyone sick of J.Crew yet? Sorry for another J.Crew post but I wanted to show the 2nd part of my haul. I didn't have anything planned and I was going to do an Ann Taylor Tweed coat review but the pics did not turn out. It was quite frustrating! Who knew taking blog photos could be so exhausting! LOL So hopefully you will enjoy these:) Up first is the J.Crew Ruffle tank and Henna Bell wool skirt:

Top: J.Crew Ruffle Tank in Platoon green- size XXS (buy HERE)

Skirt: J.Crew Wool Bell Skirt in Henna- size 00 (buy HERE)

Shoes: Ann Taylor Porcini Pumps- size 5 (similar HERE)

Belt: Brown Pleather belt taken from Grey H&M skirt

Yes I am trying to take pics from a different room! This is my family room, the lighting seems to be much for friendly. This ruffle tank fits nicely except it's super duper long. But once tucked in, it works. The arm holes are decent and not too big. And this is nice to dress up or down. I can see me wearing it with a cardi or blazer over it.

Here is the back of the skirt to show you the fit. See this top on ExtraPetite and this skirt on AlterationsNeeded, Elle, and PetiteXXS. The color Henna online looks more like a true red but in real life, it's orangey red/rust color. I like it a lot! It's different and I need something like this in my wardrobe.

Sweater: J.Crew Merino Placket in weathered wood- size XXS (buy HERE)

Shell: J.Crew Pleated Flutter Shell in gossamar peach- size XXS (buy HERE)

Shoes: Cole Haan Bronze Platform Pumps (Nordie Rack)- size 5 (similar HERE)

Here is the weathered wood color of the Merino Placket Chiffon cardigan that all the petites have. See? I am trying to wear different colors!!! And the pleather flutter shell is super pretty. I also got in charcoal. I think it's supposed to be worn un-tucked but I like it tucked much better. Fits nicely and arm holes are small. Got it for $13 so I can't complain! Usually I would have some returns but I love everything from my J.Crew Haul!!! I think I am keeping everything!

Top: J.Crew Muse Tank in golden topaz- size XXS (buy HERE)

Jeans: GAP Legging Jeans in classic wash- size 00p (buy HERE)

Here is to show you the jeans with pumps instead of boots. These jeans are a much tighter fit than the dark faded rinse I love. The material is a bit different too. I decided to keep it because it was only $35. I don't love it as much as my dark faded

jeans but I figured they fit well and I could get some wear out of them.

Here is the back so you can see the length and the back of the medium wash Gap legging jeans. See this Muse Tank on Vicky and PetiteXXS.

Top: J.Crew Ruffled Tank in white- size XXS (buy HERE)

Jacket: Theory Khaki Blazer- size 00

Jeans: Gap Legging Jeans in medium wash- size 00p (buy HERE)

Shoes: Aldo Taupe Patent Pumps- size 35/5 (similar HERE)

I am known to get multiple colors of something if it goes on sale so I had no choice but to pick up the white color of the Ruffled Tank! Glad I did because it will go with everything! I kind of wish I would have gotten the pink one too- darn it!

So yesterday, I tweeted about how I spent 7 hours at the dealership and then got home at 9:00 and went straight to my tailor. It was such a long day but I just had to get everything done! I finally got my adult H & M super squin jeans hemmed that I got for $10 and they fit smaller than the GAP legging jeans! And also took my camel skirt length up several inches. Interesting fact- my tailor measured and my perfect skirt length is 20" which is exactly half of how long my legs are from my waist. This hits right above the knee for me (about 2 inches).

So stay tuned for that!

I snuck into LOFT since the stores were open until 11pm last night and ended up impulse buying. My Mini Cheetah print shell I have been waiting for finally went on sale at my LOFT and there was one XXSP left so I scooped that one up. I also got the abstract print blouse with tie on sale as well. Not sure if I am keeping this but wanted to try it on at home!

Don't forget to enter my Allison Izu Premium Petite Denim giveaway! Enter HERE.

**You do not have to be a 0 or 00 to enter, she carries sizes 000-10!!** Have a fabulous Christmas weekend!!!! :)

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

J.Crew Haul: Merino Cielo Ruffle and Placket Chiffon Cardigans and Winner of December LOFT Giveaway!!

I am so happy I found the Merino Cielo and the Merino Placket cardigans to compare. I couldn't tell the difference online but the there is a difference! Up first is the Merino Cielo Ruffle cardi:

***Congratulations Vicky! You are the winner of my December LOFT giveaway! Please email me with you info so I can ship out your goodies! The turnout on this giveaway was really amazing and I just wanted to say thank you so much to everyone who entered! I seriously wish I could give each and every one of you who entered something but not to worry..I will have many more giveaways in the near future!***

If you didn't win this one, make sure to enter Allison Izu's Premium Petite Denim HERE. There will be THREE winners chosen! :)

Sweater: J.Crew Merino Cielo Cardigan (in Blossom color)- size XXS (buy HERE)

Skirt: J.Crew Wool Bell Skirt (comes in black, henna, and english saddle)- size 00 (buy HERE)

Belt: Ann Taylor Perfect Patent Belt in Granite- size XS (buy HERE)

Tights: H & M Divided Grey Tights 40 Den- size XS

Pin: LOFT Flower Felt Pin

Necklace: Nordstrom Rack Pink Long Pearls

Shoes: Cole Haan Grey Suede Pumps- size 5 (buy HERE)

I didn't have time to steam the wrinkles out of the skirt so pardon the lines and creases! And yet another pink and grey combo for work. It just happens and I don't even plan for it! I love this look for work and the best part is - it's so ultra comfy!

This Merino Cielo caridgan is a bit different from the Merino Placket cardigan. The buttons are not on the silk chiffon but on the wool (hope that makes sense). Same design and same materials with the silk chiffon ruffles but button placement is different. And the bottom of the cardigan is a bit different as well. The bottom of the Cielo is more elastic, and I think that's what makes the fit a bit more narrow. And the length is slightly shorter.

Merino Cielo Ruffle Cardigan (see the button placement)

Merino Placket Chiffon Cardigan (buttons are on the silk chiffon)

The arms on the Cielo are not as tight and the fit on the torso is not as baggy. unbuttoned, both sweaters appear to be almost identical but buttoned, you can see a slight variation. The wool bell skirt is what I am neutral about, see it on AlterationsNeeded and PetiteXXS. They both looked lovely in it. I don't love love the fit (a bit wide) but love the fact that the waist is tiny and fits! My Henna Red skirt is on it's way!

Sweater: J.Crew Merino Placket Cardigan in GOLD- size XXS (buy HERE)

Skirt: H & M Grey Pencil Skirt w/Belt- size 2 (Just bought)

I love this color and also got the heather graphite and weathered wood too. According to some petite's that got this sweater say the arms are really tight but I don't mind the fitted sleeves. I didn't find it to be too tight on me and I love how fitted it is! Better fitted than baggy right? The arms on all my cardigans always end up stretching out so I think there is hope!

The sleeves are cuffed because they are too long, but that was to be expected since it's not a petite size. This H & M grey pencil skirt was recently purchased this past weekend and I needed a light grey pencil skirt other than my Banana Republic one which is a bit too big.

I tried to take a pic in my formal living room, the lighting is much better. I am hoping to get better at taking photos and learning about the proper lighting and everything when I get my new camera! And definitely getting a remote!!! I tweeted about how difficult self-photography is especially w/out a remote!

Sweater: J.Crew Merino Placket Cardigan in Ivory- size XXS (buy HERE)

Skirt: H & M Camel Skirt- size 2 (will be getting the length hemmed)

Shoes: Aldo Medium Brown Leather Pumps- size 35/5 (buy HERE and still on sale)

I bought the Placket in ivory and the the Cielo in almond and the almond color is a bit more taupe than cream so not sure which one to keep.

Is it wrong that I keep all colors? I really do love cardigans and these are so pretty! The Cielo ones came out to be only $18! You really cannot beat the quality of either styles. 100% merino wool and 100% silk chiffon? Love it!

This skirt is on my "take to tailor" pile and still haven't had the chance. Hopefully soon! I think it will look amazing when the length is taken up. (excuse the wrinkles)

See the placket cardigan on Vicky'sFashion (she also got the Cielo), AlterationsNeeded, ExtraPetite, SewPetiteGal and Elle. (who am I missing? I pre-wrote this post on Sunday so let me know if you need to be linked)
Who else got J.Crew items?

Sunday, December 19, 2010

GIVEAWAY: Allison Izu Premium Petite Denim (THREE WINNERS!!)

***This giveaway has ended! Winner will be announced shortly! Thank you for entering!***

I am so excited to announce that Allison Izu will be sponsoring this fabulous giveaway! There will be THREE winners this time! Woohoo! One reader will win a pair of Allison Izu Premium Petite Denim of their choice and the other two winners will win any Allison Izu top of their choice! How great is this?

In case you missed my review, here's a recap:

Allison Izu specializes in premium denim jeans for women 5'6" and under. She offers sizes from 000 (triple zero) - 10 with 31" and 27" inseams available. All her jeans are designed in Hawaii but manufactured in California. The jeans are made out of high quality Italian denim.

And remember, you get 20% off with code: REALLYPETITE20 . And you get FREE SHIPPING with U.S. orders above $98 and FREE RETURN SHIPPING on you first order so feel free to order a bunch of different styles and sizes to try out!

Here are some of my favs:

1. Panio Low Rider- Was ~~$169~~, ~~$69~~ with code: REALLYPETITE20 (79% off) = $55.20

2. Hotel Street- Was ~~$169~~, ~~$69~~ with code: REALLYPETITE20 (79% off) = $55.20

3. Kolohe- Was ~~$168~~, ~~$49~~ with code: REALLYPETITE20 (over 90% off) = $39.20

4. Peni Pencil Skirt- Was ~~$128~~, $49 with code: REALLYPETITE20 = $39.20

Guidelines:

1. Open to U.S and International Readers!

2. Giveaway closes on Sunday, January 2nd, 2011 at Midnight PST.

How to Enter: (Mandatory)

1. Follow ReallyPetite.com PUBLICLY (+1)

Bonus Entries:

1. Click HERE to Tweet about this giveaway (+1 bonus entry)

2. Copy and past the giveaway code below on your blog sidebar (+1 bonus entry)

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Petite Review: Express Cream Moto Leather Jacket (Minus the Leather)- size XXS

This is round 2 of my pursuit for the perfect moto jacket. I finally decided to return my Bebe grey leather moto jacket. The sleeves were ridiculously too long and the fit wasn't right. So I decided to test out this Express moto jacket in XXS:

Jacket: Express Moto- size XXS (buy HERE)

Denim: Gap Legging Jeans in faded dark wash- size 0p (buy HERE)

Shoes: Ann Taylor Perfect Pumps- size 5 (buy HERE)

Here is my review:

MATERIAL: This is not genuine leather BUT it feels really soft and buttery- almost like real leather! It's super flexible unlike the hard, plastic feel of pleather. I am not a big fan of fake materials but this is animal friendly which is always good:) And its lined but very thin so if you live in colder climates, you may have to size up to wear a thick sweater or layers underneath.

COLOR: The color is super pretty, a nice ivory cream color. This jacket also comes in dusty pink, cognac, navy, green briar, and pitch black. I wish it came in grey but I think the ivory will match more with my casual outfits.

SIZING/FIT: The size I am wearing is XXS and it fits really nicely. It doesn't fit bulky in the chest area like the Bebe moto jacket when zipped up. The shoulders fit and hits where it should. The ONLY thing is that the sleeves are about 1/2- 3/4" too long for me. Luckily the material is so soft and flexible that I am able to "SCUNCH" up the sleeves which is how I would wear it anyway. I will not be spending the money hemming the sleeves since it's not worth it for me PLUS I may ruin the zipper detail. The sleeves measures: 21.5".

LENGTH: I love the length of this jacket. It hits right where I would want a Moto jacket to hit. I can wear it with jeans or I think I may even wear it with a nice pencil skirt for Casual Friday! From the shoulders to the bottom measures: 17.5".

QUALITY: I haven't bought something from Express in so many years and have never owned any of their jackets but I can say this is well constructed. I tried to look for flaws but couldn't really find anything to complain about. All the stitching and zippers were perfectly aligned and straight!

PRICE: ~~$98~~, 30% off PLUS an additional $15 on top of that brings the total to $53 plus tax. Right now Express is having a sale: $30 off $75 and this moto jacket is marked down to $68.60. I think that's a great deal!

I think what I love most about this jacket is that it's ultra feminine. It's not the hard core Moto look like most jackets are. The zipper details and subtle design is why I like it so much.

VERDICT: Keeping! What do you guys think? I haven't found anything else that even comes close to fitting this well. Even hubby likes the fit which is rare. He always says everything is too big for me.

I tested this jacket sitting down and wanted to see how comfortable it really was. I needed to make sure that it was flexible enough for me to wear on a scooter or shopping for a many hours. And so far, it has passed my test!

I hope I am not getting overly excited here...I am curious to see what everyone thinks!

Do you like the cream color? Do I keep this or continue my search?

I don't know how "practical" this moto jacket is for me BUT I don't have anything like this and I think the price is pretty good. Most importantly the XXS is surprisingly tiny enough for petites! If anyone has longer arms, this will fit great on you!

Sorry for the poor quality video- I will be getting a HD video camera soon!

On another note, I have yet ANOTHER fantastic giveaway coming up soon- stay tuned for that! I got part of my J.Crew haul so I hope to put together a post this wknd:)

What do you think about this Express Moto jacket? Keep?

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Getting Personal: All the Different Colors of My Hair

Since my last post with my 7 confessions, many of you had said that you wanted to see my lighter hair days. So here they are! We all know that most Asian's have dark, slick straight hair and yes (hand raised), that would be me! Yet I used to yearn for curly light colored hair. Why is it that people with straight hair want curly hair and people with curly hair want straight hair? I used to wave my hair like this:

This would take about 2 hours of arm breaking patience. This was when I was just starting to highlight my hair. It was just bits around the "crown" of my face and then it progressed.

Sorry for the terrible photos, that is what you get when you scan photo's these days! Here is when I used to spend hours curling each invidividual piece achieve this ringlit look. How I ever had the patience to do this is beyond me. I clearly thought something was pretty funny while taking this pic.

As you can see my hair is getting lighter...

This is when I got really blonde or caramel as I would prefer...LOL I love my hair wavy but the waver curling iron is so bad for your hair- it literally is like frying your hair! I can hear it sizzle! I still do it once every blue moon but it doesn't look as nice on dark hair as it does on light hair. *Sigh*

Here is what a waver looks like:

Hair Waver

You can cheaper versions at like this one from Sally Beauty Supply or this Revlon Waver from Ulta. I have tried cheaper ones and they do not work as well. They don't wave stubborn Asian hair as nicely as the more spendy ones- just FYI :)

These are terrible photos but they were all I could dig up.

This is when I decided to dye my hair out of the box back to my natural but it turned out GOTH black! And yes these were my "blue" contact lenses faze. After dying it black, I was depressed for months! So I had to revert back to light hair, I just could NOT do it!

My fav color (not too blonde and not too dark)

So then I gradually started to going to the salon again. And trying to find a stylist that knew how to dye Asian hair properly w/out making all my hair fall out from the bleach is like finding a trustworthy lawyer! It's literally almost impossible! Sorry if there are any lawyers out there reading this:)

Oh Cabo San Lucas...how I love you so!

The most bizarre thing is that when I had light hair, even with all the chemicals and bleaching, my hair was actually very healthy! You wouldn't think this was possible but it's true!

This is the most recent color before I went back This was taken 1 month (no re-touching whatsoever and is a professional pic) after I got married and then 3 months later, I dyed my hair back to natural. This time I went to a professional Salon and had them dye my hair to my natural hair color. But that ended up to be a mistake because it turned out worse then when I dyed it out of the box! It was PITCH black- way darker than my natural hair. I was so sad for so long- almost over a year and a half over my hair. I just didn't feel like myself with dark hair but it's been about 2 years with my natural hair and I am finally accepted it. It wasn't until after I got back from vaca in October of this year that I felt like myself again. I guess with the intense stress from work and NOT being able to sleep for months on end will catch up to you. But now I am feeling great and back to myself! I have had some readers say that I appear so much more happy and refreshed since I came back from Bora Bora. Do you think so? I guess you can't put a price on feeling good about yourself right? So Bora Bora was worth every penny! :)

On a fashion note.....

Last week I did some major damage on J.Crew and ordered the Merino Placket Cardigan in gold, cream and grey, the Wool Bell skirt in grey and today ordered in Henna (so excited about this one), Merino Cielo Ruffle Cardigan in 2 or 3 colors (I lost track). And then today picked up the Pleated Flutter Shell in gossamer peach and dark pewter, Cascading Flutter Shell in white and platoon green and the Muse Tank in gold topaz. I am patiently waiting for the double cloth lady day coat in COBBLESTONE to go on sale. My sister has been obsessed with J.Crew coats for years. I will not settle for a color I don't want. Hope it goes on sale soon! I was so lucky and was able to get a price adjustment since my sweaters and other items got marked down and then the additional 30% off on top of that! Code is MUSTHAVE. I seriously have to refrain from checking their website out because I keep finding things I want!

I also got my LOFT portrait collar top in red (2 red items in one month- who am I?) and it fits really nicely in XXSP. And I am trying out LOFT's classic brownie tights but they may be too opague for me- we shall see!

So there you have it! Do you like me with dark or light hair?

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Lookbook: Banana Republic Candy Striped Ruffle Blouse

I know the petite community hasn't been very fond of Banana Republic lately because their sizes aren't always petite friendly. Remember this Banana Republic blouse that I tried to shrink? Well after shrinking it 2 times, it finally fits to the point where I could wear it! It was pretty random when I found it because I haven't really bought anything from BR for several months. Just happened to find this on clearance in a 00p!

Blouse: Banana Republic Candy Striped Ruffle Shirt- size oop (buy here)

Sweater: Vince Cashmere Ruched Cardigan- size XS

Skirt: Banana Republic Grey Pencil Skirt- size 00p (similar here)

Shoes: Cole Haan Suede Pumps- size 5 (buy here)

Belt: Ann Taylor Perfect Patent Skinny Belt in Granite- size XS (buy here)

Pin: LOFT Flower Felt Pin- (Ebay)

You may be wondering if I wear any other colors besides gray and pinks/purples...I am trying to add more color to my wardrobe:) It just happens, the last several posts are the same color scheme so sorry about that! Button-up shirts/blouses are very tricky for me because either they are too big or they are too tight around the bust area for me leaving me with a peep hole near the front which is never a good thing. This top actually was too big but after shrinkage, it fits decent- not perfect but good enough or me to wear (I think).

I almost wish this skirt was about 1 inch shorter and the sides to be a bit more fitted. This was one of my first purchase mistakes back in March of this year. I got so excited that it fit it somewhat it that I just bought the entire suit! Haven't worn the suit much:(

Since there was so much grey going on in this outfit, I threw on my Vince purple cashmere and cuffed up the sleeves. My Ann Taylor Perfect Patent skinny belt in XS is my FAVORITE belt! I can't believe it fits on my waist and on my hips! I tweeted about it on Saturday night when it popped back up in XS online and then it was sold out again.

This top also comes in pink and white, which I sort of regret not getting. I got it for ~~$24.99~~ with 25% off so it total was around $18. It's really well constructed but the funny thing is that it looks really drab on the model online:

I would never have bought just seeing this online. Looks a bit blah and almost depressing or is it just me that thinks that?

It looks way better on the body then it does in-store or even online.

To create this look:

1. Top: Banana Republic Ruffle Blouse -this is the new version of my top

2. Sweater: Dolman Purple Sweater- Same color but 1/4 of the price as my Vince Cashmere

3. Skirt: LOFT grey pencil skirt- (tiny sizes still avail plus 40% off)

4. Belt: Perfect Patent Skinny Belt

5. Shoes: Grey Felt Pumps- (not suede but so super cute)

6. Pin: Express Flower Pin- (on sale)

Here is to show you the fit w/out the cardigan. It still has a bit of bunching so that's why I prefer to wear it underneath a sweater.

This belt is from my H & M camel skirt belt and since it matched my Aldo shoes so well, I thought I'd get double usage out of it :) I rolled up the sleeves even though I can wear them un-rolled and it fits pretty nicely but it looks much better with them rolled and cuffed.

Yes I have glasses! I hardly ever wear them but use them occasionally. I bought some new Chanel frames from a scandalous company online and they ripped me off- more on that later!! I look like dork but thought I'd show another side of me!

~~I actually didn't go shopping at all this weekend which was the first for me!~~ **Update: Ended up going to the mall to do a return after posting this and I ended up walking away with this Banana Republic Erika Petal Tee in both colors but in XSP. Now realized this top did come in a XXSP so I will be on the hunt for that! And LOFT suckered me in AGAIN and walked out with a tiered ruffle top in blue for $11.99. **

I did some damage online on Friday with my haul online at J.Crew and am waiting for my Express moto jacket to arrive. I am so curious to see if it will work. I am sort of going thru withdrawal....I have to admit! LOL Only a couple more days to enter my December LOFT giveaway! Enter here :)

Thursday, December 9, 2010

40% off LOFT Sale (again) and J.Crew Purchases

I didn't have anything planned for Friday so this will be a quickie post. Yet again, another LOFT sale! They are killing me with these sales! 40% off entire purchase plus free shipping on everything. Code is HOLIDAY. Just wanted to share with you what I got online and in-store.

Sweater: LOFT Striped Cardigan with Bow and Brooch- size XXSP (buy HERE) was ~~$69~~, ~~$34.99~~ plus 40% off = $20.99

Top: LOFT Bow Drape Shell- size XXSP (on major sale HERE) ~~$49~~, ~~$19.99~~ plus 40% off = $11.99

Skirt: Bebe Exposed Back Zipper- size 00

Tights: H & M Divided Grey Tights 40 Den

Belt: Ann Taylor Perfect Patent Skinny Belt- size XS (buy HERE)

Shoes: Cole Haan Talia Grey Suede Pumps- size 5 (buy HERE)

I didn't think much of this cardigan online and I try not to buy tops with embellishments because they are so hard to wash! And I am always paranoid that the gems will fall off. And it's cheaper in-stores than online! I am not a big fan of stripes but this was a pretty good deal and I am obsessed with LOFT cardigans! I literally have gotten so much use out of the bow drape shell, it goes with so much! Love it! I also got:

1. Brown LOFT tights- in XS/S

2. Petite Portrait Collar Top- size XXSP (bought in red)

3. Rhinestone Ribbon Belt- XS (bought in olive)

4. Loft Safari Pin

J.Crew is having 25% off sale plus free shipping. Code: PRESENT

And because of AlterationsNeeded tweeting about a cardigan she got, I was forced to look and ended up getting these items:

1. J.Crew Wool Bell Skirt- size 00 and bought in grey (on major sale) I really want the green one!

2. J.Crew Merino Placket Cardigan- size XXS (bought in gold and graphite)

3. J.Crew Merino Cielo Ruffle Cardigan- size XXS (bought in sweet almond and coal)

Happy Shopping! Sorry for the short post :) The end of the year is always super busy for me. Have a great weekend!!! And don't forget to enter my December LOFT giveaway HERE. You can win a scarf, pearl ribbon necklace and earrings! Ends on 12/15!!!

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Biker Chic: Bebe Grey Moto Leather Jacket- Size XS

Besides jeans and pants, jackets falls in that category of almost impossible. I have been on the hunt for a leather moto jacket but nothing seems to be just right. Every jacket I try on, the sleeves are way too long. On Black Friday weekend, Bebe had their sale so I decided to pull the trigger. This jacket was not supposed to have an additonal 25% off because it was already marked down to $119 but for some reason when I added to my cart, it took 25% off so I felt like I hit the freaking jackpot!!! Total with tax came to $89. Not bad for real leather right?

Jacket: Bebe Moto Leather Jacket- size XS (similar HERE)

Top: Nordstrom Rack Juniors Sweater- size XS (old)

Jeans: GAP Legging Jeans in dark faded wash- size 00p (buy HERE)

Shoes: Cole Haan Talia Suede Pumps- size 5 (buy HERE)

Scarf: LOFT (similar HERE)

Ever since hubby and I honeymooned in Italy for 3 weeks about 2 years ago, we have fallen in love with the Italian lifestyle and everything Italian! Hubby got rid of his motorcycle years ago and since we have been married and I don't want to be a widow, I won't allow another motorcycle but did allow him to get a scooter. It's not a tiny scooter- it's freeway legal but we only take on local streets. So I have been on the hunt for a cute jacket to wear when we go scootin'! Yes I am a dork!!!

Click to see how long the sleeves are!

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Petite Review: LOFT Petite Equestrian Wool Pants & Petite Scuba Lean Trousers AND winner of Menuet Designs Giveaway!

***The winner of the Menuet Designs Flower and Pearl Necklace is SewPetiteGal! Congratulations! Please contact me with your info so I can pass along to Menuet Designs. Don't worry if you didn't win, enter my current December LOFT giveaway HERE!****

After many failed attempts at pants, I literally own 2 pairs in my wardrobe. Those two are not being worn because of how they fit even after alterations. I don't know why my body is not built for pants! I keep thinking, there must be something wrong with me. Like my pursuit for jeans, I may have found my match. By the way, I added a few new items to my blog sale HERE. So check it out. I am willing to ship internationally for my loyal readers :)

Top: LOFT V-Neck Draped Bow Shell- size XXSP (have one for sale in my blog sale)

Sweater: LOFT V-neck Long Cardigan- size XXSP (buy HERE)

Pants: LOFT Equestrian Wool Pants- size 00p (buy HERE)

Pin: LOFT Felt Flower Pin (bought on ebay recently)

Belt: Ann Taylor Outlet Leather Grey Belt- size XS (buy HERE)

Necklace: LOFT Purple Gemstone (similar HERE)

Shoes: Cole Haan Talia Grey Suede Pumps- size 5 (buy HERE)

**my new love**

After seeing AlterationsNeeded's petite frame fit into these, I said- heck, I must give them a try! And then ExtraPetite did a post recently too! They both looked amazing in them and I hope I do these pants justice! I have never been into the cuffed ankle pants look but I really like these! They are definitely different and "OUTSIDE" my box!

Click to see the diff ways I styled these pants and the Scuba Lean Trousers!

Thursday, December 2, 2010

December Giveaway: Win a LOFT scarf, pearl ribbon necklace and earrings!

***This giveaway is now closed. Thank you to everyone who entered! Winner will be announced soon!:)***

In the spirit of the Holiday's, I wanted to end the year with a giveaway as a way of thanking everyone who reads my blog. Thank you to everyone who comments on a daily basis and who is so kind and supportive of me. So here are a few things I wanted put together for this December holiday giveaway:

Here is what you get:

1. LOFT blue/green print scarf (brand new with tags)

2. LOFT pearl and ribbon long necklace (brand new with tags)

3. LOFT gem dangle earrings (brand new with tags)

Since I have been a scarf addict this season, I bought a duplicate of one of my favorite scarfs. And I recently got this gorgeous pearl and ribbon necklace from LOFT outlet and these gem dangle earrings. I bought 2 sets because I loved them so much and wanted a lucky reader to have it as well :) Can you tell I love LOFT?

Rules:
1. Open to U.S and International Readers! Everyone can enter! :)
2. Giveaway closes on Wednesday, December 15th at Midnight EST.

How to Enter: (Mandatory)
1. Follow this blog PUBLICLY (+1)

Bonus Entries:
1. Click HERE to Tweet about this giveaway (+1)
2. Copy and paste the giveaway code below on your blog sidebar (+1)