Friday, December 30, 2011

H&M Blazer (Theory "Gratian" Style)

**Update: The blazer fits nicely and is lined in pink. The quality is good too!  See below for how it fits on a fellow petite. (thanks KatMac)**
H&M1
H&M Blazer $34.95 Style #: 037443 (two colors: gray-beige and black)
Description: Short, fitted collarless jacket with a hook-and-eye fastener and two front pockets. Slightly shorter at back than front. Lined.
For those of you who have yearned for the famous Theory "Gratian" Blazer from last year, this is a great dupe! I have't seen it in person yet but the description says short and fitted- yes please!  It has the same silhouette and hook-and-eye fastener just like the Gratian blazer.  The only obvious difference is the collar.  I love the clean lines and shape.  I have a feeling this will be a quick sell out and wanted to share. I desperately want the gray-beige color! 
H&M Blazer 2
H&M3
As a ref: she is 5' 2" and 92 lbs. 
Hope everyone has a Happy New Year!!! : )

Thursday, December 29, 2011

H&M Bangles (Tiny)

I am so excited to share with you my latest find at H&M. It was kind of a fluke that I found these tiny bangles because I was just about to leave and thought I would do one last round.  I usually make 2-3 rounds because I always find something different that I didn't see the first time.  I was perusing the accessories section and didn't see anything I liked but then as I was walking away, at the very bottom were these bangles hanging w/no tag. I picked them up and they were so small- I couldn't believe my eyes! Of course there was no tag so I looked around and found what looked like the tag but it said $3.95.  I thought there was no way it was that cheap for the entire set - even for H&M.  I tried to find another set but with no luck. I decided to head over to the little girl's section thinking- maybe it's possible that it's from the girl's department? It had to be since they are the smallest bangles I have ever seen that are not custom made.
Bangle1
H&M girls bangles  (each set comes with 3 gold toned, 2 black, 2 white, 1 glitter and 1 silver toned)
Item #94961 ($3.95 for the set)
Bangles2
I walked over to the girl's accessories department and scoured the entire area and couldn't find another set. I did however find a similar set w/different colors that had the same price tag but they were much too childish. It was confirmed that indeed it was from the girls section. I found an SA and asked for her to help me find a 2nd set of bangles because I knew I wanted 6 gold ones and there are only 3 in each set. She was super sweet and helped me dig and dig until we were both sweating.  I figured I will just buy the one set and look for a 2nd set at a different location. As I was standing in line, the same SA came up to me holding a 2nd set. I must have screamed so loud that people thought I was insane.  I was so happy. It was a good day!
Bangle4
Diameter is 2 1/8" (even smaller than a size 2 1/4")

If you don't know if these will fit you, as a reference my wrists measures right under 5 1/4" and from knuckle to knuckle is 2 1/4". Use Kelly's oldie but goodie post here to measure what size bangles will work for you. 

The only downside to these is obviously the quality. I can see where the ends were soldered together and I'm not sure how long they will last before either they break or the gold/silver tone will wear off. For the price tag of $3.95 and how perfectly they fit- I think I'll chance it! I'm already wearing them : )

Lulus.com Jill Frost Mint Green Mini Skirt

MintGreenSkirt1
Shirt: Ann Taylor - size 00P (this year's version or Old Navy)
Blazer: H&M - size 2
Skirt: C/O Lulus.com Jill Frost Mint Green Mini Skirt- size small (buy here or similar here)
Shoes: Ann Taylor - size 5 (similar here or here for $24.95)

I know you are probably thinking...another pleated skirt? This mint green color just makes me smile and I have nothing like it in my closet. All my other pleated skirts had to undergo some tailoring but this one fits with no alterations! It's supposed to be a mini skirt but for someone petite, it's the perfect length.
Details:
- waist measures 12.25" across
- stretchy elastic waistband
- total length is 17" (online measurements are a slightly different)
- fully lined (need to wear nude panties)
- swishing accordion pleats
MintSkirt2
Pearls: LOFT 3 tiered (similar here)
Ring: Lauren Conrad for Kohls {thanks Vicky}- (similar here)
Watch: Seiko mens 34mm (similar here)
If you have never heard of LuLus.com, it's an online clothing store that offers the latest fashions. They started out as a mother-daughter dream back in 1996 and now have grown to be a successful online fashion site.  They sell everything from shoes, clothes and accessories. I purchased my BB Dakota tweed skirt last year which they price matched and their customer service is impeccable. 


MintSkirt3
MintSkirt4
I can definitely see myself wearing this a lot in Spring/Summer. I just have to figure out what other colors go with mint green. I tried it with a nude blouse and it looked really nice.  Any suggestions?

Disclaimer: I received this skirt courtesy of LuLus.com.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Petite Secret Santa

Thank you Jessy from TheLittleDustPrincess for organizing the Petite Secret Santa for the second year in a row! This year my petite secret santa was...
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Jessy from TheLittleDustPrincess! She is one the nicest bloggers and has always been really supportive of me. Make sure to visit her blog:)  She got me everything I asked for. I desperately needed gray tights and am excited to try out this Joe brand.  My eyebrow kit that I won from a beauty blog last year is on it's last legs and now have a new one to crack open- yay! I asked for nail polish and received this gorgeous dark purple from China Glaze. Thanks so much for everything Jessy! 
GiftsfromBloggers
I also received numerous gifts from some amazing fellow bloggers.  The hand-knit scarf and pearl/ribbon bracelet (top right and left) are both from SewPetiteGal. She knows my favorite color is pink so she selected pink pearls and made the bracelet to fit my wrist.  She is incredibly talented and so sweet. You have to check out her blog full of fashion and DIY projects.  Check out her Etsy shop for one of kind pieces that can  be customized in size and color. The other bracelet (lower left) is from Nelah over at 52NewDays. She is an amazing and talented woman. You can purchase one of a kind jewelry (also custom made) at her Etsy shop.  She customized the bracelet to fit my wrist.  The Lauren Conrad leaf ring (Kohl's) is from none other than the lovely Vicky at VickysDailyFashion. You must follow her blog. She always finds amazing deals and has great style.  And remember this mustard cardigan I ordered and it got cancelled? Well she included this along with my ring! I about fell over when I got the package.
Elle
The flower ring and other goodies is from Elle at FastFoodandFastFashion. She was able to track down her green H&M dress for me and included this cute F21 adjustable ring along with a super sweet card and other treats.  I was so touched. She's also the one that sold me the crisp nougat blouse that I have been wearing to death- love her! I love all these ladies to death and have great admiration for each and every one of them.  I'm not sure what I did to deserve all of these great gifts but I am so grateful and love everything : )

Who did I get to shop for? The lovely Michelle over at ThePetiteFittingRoom. She is so adorable and I hope she liked everything I picked out.  I can't wait to see what everyone else received!

Monday, December 26, 2011

Giveaway: Win Revlon Nail Polish and Lipstick

**Giveaway is now closed!**
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From left to right: Temptress, Hushed Blush, Tuscan Sun, Demure,  and Iced Spice
Lipstick: Revlon Colorburst- Carnation (the actual lipstick has not been opened- just wanted to show you the color)

I picked up extra nail polish and lipstick on my last CVS haul and wanted to do a mini giveaway. It's my way of saying thank you for reading and supporting me. I know it's not much but it's just a small token of my appreciation.

Guidelines
1. Open to U.S and International Readers!
2. Giveaway ends on 1/6/2012 at Midnight (PST).
How to Enter
1. Follow me on Twitter (@ReallyPetite) OR Like Me on Facebook  (+1 mandatory entry)
**If you don't use Twitter or Facebook- just please leave your name**
To be fair to everyone, ALL entries will be verified. Ones with  no email addresses will be disqualified. Emails are only used for verification purposes so not to worry! Winner will be chosen by a random number generator. Good luck and hope everyone had a great Holiday : )

Friday, December 23, 2011

Review: Old Navy "The Rock Star Jeggings"

**Update: I ended up ordering the 0 Short instead and it fits much better! It's less restricting in the waist and throughout the legs.
Measurements:
Waist laying flat is 12" and same inseam**
ONJeggings1
Sweater: GAP - size XSP (buy here)
Jeggings: Old Navy in ruby - size 0P (buy here)
Shoes: Ann Taylor - size 5 (peep toe slingbacks)

After seeing these jeggings on Wendy and how well they fit her, I had to give them a try. 
Measurements:
Waist laying flat: 11.5" (teeny tiny)
Rise: 6"
Inseam: 27.5"
ONJeggings2
SIZE/FIT: These run really small and are body hugging. I was shocked to see the waist was as tiny as it was.  See how they compare to the Gap leggings in 00P. It's 1.5" smaller! After a full meal, I may not be able to breathe.
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If you are taller than me (5' tall), you may want to get the regular for a longer inseam. My ideal is 28" and I am afraid this may shrink too much and look like capris after several washes. I am curious to see how the 0 regular's fit - please share if you have tried these :) I was in a big rush and forgot pictures of the back- sorry!

MATERIAL: 2% spandex, 21% polyester, 77% cotton. They are very soft and is much thinner compared to the GAP legging jeans. 

COLOR: The color is Ruby. I'm a little perplexed as to why they chose this name but I like the color. They are much darker (no fading/whiskers) than the GAP jeans.

PRICE: Even at full price ($34.94)- not bad for jeggings but since Old Navy always runs promotions, you can score these at a much lower price. I'm sure after Christmas- they will go on sale.  I had some rewards money so these ended up being free!
ONJeggings3
VERDICT: I like them but I'm afraid that the inseam will be too short after washing them several times. Still debating. I ordered the marshmallow white ones as well for Spring/Summer.

What are your thoughts on these?

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Stripes and Leopard

J.CrewHennaBellSkirt1
Blouse: Ann Taylor in crisp nougat - size 00P (buy here 50% off: code WINTER50)
Sweater: Old Navy- size XS (similar here and here)
Skirt: J.Crew in henna {old} - size 00
Shoes: Ann Taylor - size 5 (buy here 50% off: code WINTER50)
Watch: Seiko mens (similar dupe here)
Necklace: LOFT 3-strand pearls {old} - (similar here and here)

The winds are crazy this week so no outside photos. I've been trying really hard to shop in my closet and re-mixing old items and came up with this. This is a great casual outfit I wore recently over the weekend and it could work for a casual work environment as well. 
JCrewhennabellskirt2
Thanks again Elle for selling me this crisp nougat blouse. I have already worn it several times since she shipped it to me.  I love having such great blogger friends : )

I stopped by Old Navy to use my groupon (get your $10 for $20 coupon here - still available) and picked up this crew neck polka dotted sweater in butterflies and another green/navy striped (can't find online) - both for $10.  Not too shabby right? : )

Monday, December 19, 2011

BB Dakota Tweed Suit

BBDakotaSuit1
Top: Gap {sides slimmed}- size SP (similar here or here)
Sweater: LOFT {old}- size XXSP (similar here and assorted colors here)
Skirt: BB Dakota Ladson- size 0 (similar here)
Jacket: BB Dakota Herringford {sleeves shortened}- size 0 (similar here)
Tights: H&M divided 40 den - size XS (F21 version)
Shoes: Ann Taylor - size 5 (buy here)
BBDakota2
I got this BB Dakota tweed suit last winter and haven't given it enough love. The blazer was purchased from a reader (thanks R.L) and the skirt I found on Ideeli. The entire suit was about $55- not bad for a thick tweed suit. I initially fell in love with it because it was so reminiscent of a Chanel tweed suit with the black velvet trim and chain accent welt pockets on the jacket.
BBDakota3
BBDakota4
The jacket is shaped very boxy and narrow when worn alone but as a set, there is just something I love about it.  I ended up splurging and taking up the sleeves (they were extremely long) and had to pay extra to keep the velvet trim.  I'm glad I spent the extra money because the velvet trim is really what makes the jacket stand out.  The skirt (size 0) is a bit loose but can be held up with a belt. 
BBDakota5
What items in your closet do you forget about?

Saturday, December 17, 2011

H&M purple pencil skirt

H&MPurplePencil1
Blouse: Ann Taylor - size 00P (buy here)
Skirt: H&M {recent- style #027017 $24.95} - size 2 (similar here)
Shoes: Talbots- size 5 (buy here)
Necklace: Pearls (similar here)

I finally got my hands on this blouse all thanks to Elle! Thanks so much for selling it to me. I love that the blogging community is so sharing and willing to help each other out.  I've been wanting a purple skirt similar to J.Crew's No. 2 vibrant purple but it sold out immediately and I would have to spend a lot on alterations. I was pretty happy when I saw this bold purple staring at me while perusing at H&M. The size 2 fits nicely in the waist and the length is perfect.  The only thing I don't like is that it's a polyester sheen which may appear wrinkly after sitting for a long period of time.
H&MPurpleSkirt2
Measurements: Waist is 12" laying flat across and 19.5" total length
Details: Side zipper and two front pockets, 100% polyester

If anyone is interested in purchasing the rose cameo talbot pumps I am wearing, please let me know! Only worn twice for blog posts : ) Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Friday, December 16, 2011

J.Crew: 30% off in stores and online plus free shipping

I love when J.Crew has this sale with free shipping (no minimum- use code: CHEER) because you can score some really great stuff for dirt cheap.  This vintage thermal comes in three different colors and is only $13.99! 
under $25 (after discounts):
- perfect boatneck tee (xx-small - xx-large in 13 colors)
- tissue turtleneck - so many pretty colors and some are only $10!
 $25 - $50 (after discounts):
 $50 - $100 (after discounts):

I got a few of the above to try. I've come to realize that J.Crew has amazing customer service and they are always willing to do price-adjustments.  I love when retailers are flexible and want to make you happy.  It just makes me want to shop with them even more.

Did you order anything? Please share : )

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Extra 20% off ASOS

Get 20% off everything with code: XMASSHIPUS - ends 12/16 plus free shipping both ways (no minimum) and free returns.  Keep in mind the quality of ASOS is not the best. I only have a couple of dresses  and the sizing is very strange. The US 1 petite runs smaller than H&M's US size 2. The regular size 2 runs bigger than a 0 or 00.  You can always buy and return for free so definitely less risk. If you are between sizes, I would size up or order both and return one. Be careful when trying items on - do not get make-up or stains on them because ASOS will not allow you to return them.  Many people have had issues with this so be extra cautious.

If you are looking for something to wear on New Years eve, here are some of my picks: 

- Black and white cocktail dress (sz US 1- US 12 petite and comes in 2 colors)
- Corset with fold details (sz US 1- US 12 petite and comes in black and rose)
- Exaggerated bow (sz Us 2 - US 12 and comes in 3 colors- love the rust color)
- Pleated bandeau in wine (sz US 1 - US 12 petite)

I've been looking for a cocktail/evening dress for an upcoming event I have in a few months. I'm shopping early because I don't want to panic at the last minute. Any suggestions of brands and styles would be greatly appreciated! I am looking for something short (no long evening gowns) and something simple and classy.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Holiday Outfit Ideas


Yes it's that time of year again, holiday parties and stuffing your belly with delicious food.  It's my favorite time of the year.  If you have an upcoming  party or an event to go to and have no idea what to wear, here are a few outfits I put together. 
#1: Elegant with pop of sequin
HolidayRedOutfit
Blouse: Loft - size XXSP (similar here)
Skirt: Ann Taylor red chili pepper or cobalt blue- size 00P (buy here and here)
Shoes: Christian Louboutin - size 35 (buy here)
Purse: Loft (buy here)
Faux Fur: H&M (similar here)
 If you are not a red fan, try a cobalt blue or maybe even a bright pink. 
HolidayBlueOutfit
#2: Bold and Sparkly
HolidayGoldSkirt
Top: Banana Republic - size XXSP (buy here)
Blazer: Banana Republic {old} - size 00P (similar here)
Skirt: Arden B. - size XS (similar junior sizing)
Shoes: Christian Louboutin - size 35 (buy here)
Shopping this past weekend was miserable and extremely chaotic. I did manage to find this gold sequin skirt that fits perfectly. I brought it home to mull over. I have decided it's too gold for me so if anyone is looking for a true gold sequin skirt that fits, let me know otherwise it's going back this weekend.  I wish it was more of a blush/champagne color- it would be perfect!

#3: Neutral and Classy
HolidayNeutralOutfit
Sweater: H&M - size XS
Skirt: Zara TRF {review here} - size XS
Shoes: Christian Louboutin - size 35 (buy here)
If you are looking for something a little more toned down, sticking with a neutral palette is a great option. It's still fun and sparkly yet classy.  This looks very similar to my last post but I swapped it out for this H&M sweater. This maybe the winner for my party this week!

Which outfit is your favorite?

Friday, December 9, 2011

Review: Zara TRF Sequin Skirt

ZaraSequin1
Top: LOFT - size XXSP (buy here)
Sweater: Ann Taylor in tender blush- size XSP (buy here)
{if anyone has an XXSP in this color- please email me}
Skirt: Zara - size XS (buy here or similar here and here)
Shoes: Christian Louboutin - size 35 (buy here)

Sorry for all the skirt reviews this week. I didn't plan for them to all fall in one week. As you all know and have seen, sequins is everywhere. I've been looking for a champagne/blush sequin skirt for an upcoming Holiday party. Everything I have seen is extremely bold and I needed just the right color and style. I attempted to get a kids size 12 skirt from J.Crew factory (thanks Elle for tweeting it) but that didn't work out which you will see at the end of this post.

The only other thing I have bought from Zara was this mustard coat but then ended up selling it to a reader. I haven't had much luck with their sizing. They tend to run much bigger than H&M.  
ZaraSequin2
Measurements: Waist laying flat across is 13.5" and total length is 13.5"

Fit: This skirt is meant to be worn on your lower waist. Unfortunately, even at the lowest point on my waist, it's still really big on me. I have to determine if I can get away with it without alterations. The Holiday party is next week and I have no time to take it to the tailors.  The length may be too short on taller women but it works like mini on me. I like that it's a straight cut and fits nicely through the hips and butt. This will allow me to walk freely and be very comfortable when mingling.  Warning- this will not work if you are smaller than me.

Quality: If I had to pick things apart, it would be the uneven stitching on the top and bottom of the skirt. It's not noticeable but if you look really closely, it's not perfectly straight.  I was hoping for the price, it would be better quality. The side zipper does not have a hook-and-eye closure which really annoys me. Overall, it's typical Zara craftsmanship but I'm somewhat satisfied.
ZaraSequin3
Color: Champagne color. I wish it was more of a blush tone but this is much easier to wear and match. I like that it's neutral and toned down.

Price: $49. A bit steep and over my $30 price point for a sequin skirt. I figured if it fit and the color was what I was looking for, I am willing to pay the price. What's great about ordering through Zara online is free shipping and free returns. 

Verdict: I like it but can I get away with the bigger waist? Is it worth alterations?  Maybe I can hold it up with a belt and then hide it with my cardigan buttoned up?
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Here is the J.Crew factory girls skirt in size 12. The waist fits and I love the color but I think the Zara one is more my style. If anyone is interested in this skirt ($43 shipped w/in U.S.) before I return in, please let me know. 

Readers - what are your thoughts on the Zara sequin skirt?

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Review: Ann Taylor Chili Pepper Red Wool Mini Skirt

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Top: BR factory {style #907209-00-1-0009} - size XXSP (similar here or here)
Skirt: Ann Taylor wool mini- size 00P (buy here)
Shoes: Christian Louboutin - size 35 (buy here)
Picnik collage
Measurements: Waist laying flat = 12.5", Hips = 15.5" Total length = 16" (online it states 17" for petite sizes)

Size/Fit: The waist is a bit (1/2") loose but doable. As a reference I'm 5' tall, 92 lbs. ( 32 x 23.5 x 32) 

Material: 65% wool, 32% polyester and 3% spandex. (online it states 67% wool, 31% poly and 2% spandex) Fully lined with hidden side zipper and hook-and-eye closure.

Color: Chili Pepper Red. This is much brighter in person than it is online. I wanted a more bold red that I could wear also wear in the Spring/Summer. I can see this paired with a neutral blouse for the upcoming Holiday parties and dinners.

Price: $98. At full price, definitely not worth it but I got it during the 50% sale plus I had a $25 rewards card. $49 - $25 = $24 
Picnik collage
Likes: I love the bold color and have nothing like this in my wardrobe. My other red thrifted skirt is a longer length and thicker wool and is much more conservative. I wanted something shorter that I could wear on date night and on the  weekends. I am happy with the overall fit.  I am relieved that it's a straight cut and not a-line.  A straight cut is much more flattering on petites.

Dislikes:  The material felt more like the cobalt blue ponte skirt than a wool  blend. The mini length and bold color probably will not work for a conservative corporate environment but it all depends on where you work.  I prefer a back zipper to a side zipper only for alteration purposes but luckily I can get away with the waist on this one. Most of my Ann Taylor pencil skirts always need the sides to be slimmed and the waist taken in but the mini's have proven to work out with no alterations.

Verdict: Keeping and would recommend if you are looking for a fun, bold red mini skirt.  

Anyone else pick up this skirt?

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Review: LOFT Chiffon Pleated Skirt

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Top: Old Navy - size XS (similar here or here)
Blazer: Bebe {old}- size 00 (similar here)
Skirt: LOFT - size 00P (buy here)
Shoes: Cole Haan - size 5 (buy here) Belt: Ann Taylor- size XS (buy here)
Purse: Chanel WOC
IMG_1038.jpgMaterial: 100% polyester, lining is 100% polyester. 

Quality: The sides were stitched incorrectly so it's slightly bunching up .  I'm hoping I can somehow steam/iron it out. I wonder if I just got unlucky or they are all like this. None of my other skirts have this problem.  The one thing I wish I could change was the wider waist band. I prefer it small like the H&M and Modcloth bands.
PleatedSkirtComparison
Size/Measurements: Waist laying flat is 13" across and full length is 19". The length is perfect for someone my height. The waist is unfortunately too loose but can be held up with a belt. I will eventually have to get the waist taken in.
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Price: $69.50 with 50% off = $34.75 This is a decent price but make sure you wait for a sale. All tiny sizes are sold out online but you can always call and do a style finder.
PleatedSkirt2
Verdict: I would recommend this if you are looking for a cute and affordable black pleated skirt.  If you have a size 24" waist or smaller, be ready to factor in about $25 for tailoring.  I will probably keep this and take in the waist.
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There are many types of pleats. All three of my pleated skirts are very different. The easiest to care for so far is the navy H&M skirt because it has wider knife pleats. The best way to care for your pleated skirt is to dry clean them. It's a bit higher maintenance but worth it.
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Anyone else pick up this skirt?

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Look for Less: Jessica Alba & Christian Dior

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Blouse: H&M - size 2 (similar here or here)
Skirt: H&M *hemmed*  - size 2 (similar here or shorter)
Tights: H&M divided - size XS (similar here)
Shoes: Ann Taylor (buy here)
Purse: LOFT - (buy here)
JessicaAlba1
I absolutely love Jessica Alba and think she is gorgeous. She's one of my favorite celebrities.  The outfit she is wearing is from the Christian Dior 2011 Fall collection. I couldn't find the exact skirt and blouse but here are similar items:
Similar Designer Outfit
Blouse: Robert Rodriquez   
Purse: Roger Vivier clutch  
JessicaAlba2
I know the last Look for Less post, I didn't have time to post prices.  Here is the difference between designer prices (similar items from above) and what I paid for a similar look.  Granted it's not as amazing as her outfit, but it's practical and you can wear it in real life. I added the sequin clutch in case you want to wear something like this to an event or party.


Designer PricesMine
Blouse: $19529.95
Skirt:    $1560$39.95
Tights:  $72$5.95
Shoes:   $995$85
Purse:    $1649$20
Total:    $4471  $180.85
This is totally random but I completely forgot to put lipstick on for this post and was so mad when uploading the photos. I was going to re-do the pics but it was getting too dark in my house. I didn't want to look pale and washed out but oh well. Lesson learned! Always look in the mirror before taking pictures. Hope you enjoyed it : )