Asymmetric Bardot Cocktail Dress - size US 2 petite (buy here)

(was $116, $53.72 - coral is $46.55)
Shoes: Christian Louboutin - size 34.5 (buy here)

Likes: I love the color. It's not too bright but soft enough that it's not pastel. It's definitely not a "lime" color but more of a chartreuse/yellow.  The fit is a really nice cut. It's not too tight in any areas which was a concern for me because I want to be able to move around easily. There's nothing worse than being at an event and feeling uncomfortable. This fits like a size 2 at H&M and smaller than most 00P dresses I have. The dress zips up easily (no doing the crazy chicken dance while trying to get into it) and the boning in the bust area keeps the dress from slipping down.  I'm curious to see how the US 1 petite would fit?  I love the single shoulder with a pleated band to the neckline- oh so feminine and dainty.  The bandage style and fitted pencil skirt make the silhouette of this dress really long and lean. I feel extra tall in it!  The single back vent allows me to walk easily and dance freely at the wedding : ) Yes I like to bust a move! The length hits right at the knees which is the perfect length for this type of dress. No alterations needed- woo hoo!

Dislikes: The material is appears to be very wrinkle prone. As you can see, I haven't steamed it yet so it's a hot mess and very wrinkly. I am wondering if it will wrinkle easily after hours of sitting down for a wedding. I am hoping the pleated band to the neckline stays in place. I did notice that it's hard to move my right arm- not sure how that will affect my dancing skills : )
I don't think this is a bad price for this type of dress.  I can definitely wear this more than once so I know I will get my money's worth.

Necklace: Pearls from Mom (similar here and here)

This month's challenge is:

Stylish for under $100: Put together a professional outfit (excluding shoes and accessories) for under $100. Bonus points if you can put together a completed outfit including shoes and accessories for under $100.

Grand total = $99 
I included everything except my shoes : )

Tee: J.Crew - size XS (buy here) *on sale for $12.99

Shirt: GAP - size 10 (buy here)

Jeans: Old Navy jeggings - size 0R (buy here) *in-store is only $19 for all colors but only regular sizes*

Necklace: Peri Glam Strands (buy here)

Clutch: Vintage Coach

Shoes: Ann Taylor - size 5 (similar here)

It's been so beautiful in Southern Cali (minus the insane winds) and I am clearly ready for Spring. I busted out my white jeggings that were originally back-ordered until March but they came early.  I ordered them when I got my ruby colored ones (thanks again Wendy for discovering them). I regret not getting 0short instead. I can't stand the longer length and bunchy knees but maybe it will shrink after a few washes. After my rewards and price adjustments, I only paid $9 for these.

I scored this mint perfect tee in-store for $6 (online is $12.99) and also ended up getting the boatneck version in many colors (I got XXS in these).  I like to wear these around the house because they are so soft and there is no itchy tag in the back. They run really small so you may need to size up. 

I definitely don't recommend trying to layer with these tee's because it's way too thin and you can see the bulkiness of the gingham shirt underneath (not good).  And because the mint color is so light, you can see right through.  This ensemble looked much better in my head. 

I managed to somehow put together my broken camera and used a different lens to make it work until I get a new one. I'm still sick to my stomach about what happened yesterday.

Don't forget- petite fashion challenge #13 is this Tuesday, February 28th!

If you follow me on Twitter or Facebook, you may have voted between these two outfits.  The stripe was a clear winner so here it is! I realize that my last few outfit posts have all been with stripes so bear with me as I go through this stripe craze:)

Sweater: Old Navy - size XS (similar here or here)

Skirt: Ann Taylor - size 00P (buy here)

Necklace: Bauble Bar (buy here)

Bangles: H&M girls (similar here)

Watch: Seiko Mens 34mm (similar here)

Purse: Rebecca Minkoff M.A.C (buy here in other colors)  *selling this purse if anyone is interested* SOLD

Shoes: Tahari *runs small* - size 5.5 (similar here)

I wanted to test out my new flats and see how they look when photographed. I feel so weird in them and think I look silly but it sure is a nice break from heels! I can't wait to wear them for several hours- hope they are as comfortable as I think they are.

Today wasn't such a good day. Do you want to know why? Well, my camera toppled over while I was taking blog photos. It wasn't supposed to be windy today but all of a sudden, these huge wind gusts came out of nowhere and blew my entire tri-pod and camera over. I always try to check the weather forecast to make sure it's not too windy or going to rain (doesn't happen often in Southern CA) but today- the weather lied to me! My camera and lens is completely shot:(

Even though I am quite traumatized, I hope you have a great weekend.

I went to Marshall's the other day looking for the Franco Sarto dupes but couldn't find it. However, I did find these in a size 6 - Brand is Bandolino. They were on sale for around $32. You may want to check your local Marshall stores. They have a ton of cute shoes but nothing in my size.  

I randomly saw a pair of tiny navy cap toe Tahari flats in the clearance section but the size said 5.5 so I put them down immediately. For some reason, I decided to turn back on my way out and tried them on. Much to my surprise, the size 5.5 fit! They are super comfortable and run small.  I ran around the shoe section looking for more pairs because mine were a display and I wanted a fresh pair in the box. Unfortunately it was the last pair (display) but I did find other Tahari flats (red cap toe and snakeskin) in the box. I tried them all  on and couldn't believe how nice they felt on my feet. I have been wanting to let go of my Tory Burch Reva flats because they kill every time I wear them. I desperately need some cute flats for shopping and traveling.  The navy/cream (lower right photo) was $32 on sale but the red and snakeskin were only $39.99 in the box.  I brought them all home to mull over.  It seems like every pair of flats I have ever tried on just don't fit right. It must be my feet. These felt like heaven for my toes.  Please help me decide which to keep. I definitely want to keep the navy/cream but would like a second pair...or do I keep all three?

Greenhouse Ponte Seamed Skirt - size 00P
Jacket: Loft - size XXSP (buy here)
Shoes: Christian Louboutin - size 35 ( buy here or I am selling mine if anyone is interested)

I was so happy when I put this skirt on and realized it ran smaller than both my cobalt blue skirt  and chili pepper mini. Both of these skirts have a 13" waist and is loose on me.  The green fits perfectly.

Likes: The fit is really nice on someone my size. The other skirts that are similar usually slide around my entire body because of the 1" difference in the waist.  The ponte material is soft and great for traveling.  I can see me bringing this with me for my upcoming travels.  It has a hidden back with snap closure for a seamless fit. I much prefer back zippers to side zippers.  It's easier and cheaper on alterations and it just looks better.

Dislikes: The only downside I could find was that the skirt is unlined (so is my cobalt blue skirt).  It would be perfect if they threw in some lining.

Knit Sheath Dress in blue lapis - size 00P 

Measurements: shoulders = 12", armpit to armpit = 14", waist = 13 3/4", hips = 16 3/4", total length = 33 3/4"

Material: 100% polyester

Likes:  I had really high hopes for this dress and was hoping to replace my unlined Banana Republic blue dress.  The color is very rich and gorgeous- exactly what I expected from the pictures online. I really liked the simplicity and streamlined silhouette.  It's a great work dress to wear alone or with a cardigan/ blazer.  This is a very similar material to the green and cobalt blue ponte skirt. 

Dislikes: It's quite big and loose on me. I think it would look great on someone 1 size up from me.  I figured that I would be able to fill out the chest area and make it work but it's not very flattering on me. The waist area is huge.  The entire dress is unlined. Does it really save that much money to skimp on the lining? The price is steep for a polyester dress that is unlined.

Parallel Dot Tucked Dress - size XXSP
Shoes: Christian Louboutin - size 35 (buy here)

Measurements: shoulder = 11.5", armpit = 13", waist un-stretched is 11", hips = 15.5", total length = 34"

Material: 96% polyester and 4% spandex - machine washable

Likes: The dress fits nicely and is very slimming. Armholes are nice and small.  The polka-dot motif is adorable and my favorite part is the tucked/pleated neck detail.  The waist is shirred and the fabric is a jersey stretchy fabric. The dress is fully lined.  There are no zippers or hooks which is nice so you don't have to twist your arm trying to zip up the back.  I like the fact that you don't have to worry about wrinkles throughout the day- major plus.

Dislikes: The color is supposed to be dark navy but I swear it's black. I wish it was more of a true navy color. 

Perfect Patent Neon belt in shocking pink- size XS

Dress: Loft - size XXSP (buy here or similar)

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

Belt: Ann Taylor - size XS (buy here)

Shoes: Ann Taylor - size 5 (buy here)

Purse: Chanel PST 

Bangles: H&M (similar here)

I chose to belt the blazer to keep it from un-hooking and it ended up working out quite nicely.  I think I may be obsessed with Ann Taylor belts. The XS's usually fit w/out having to punch extra holes.  I also ordered the shocking pink too: )

Image Credit

Loft Textural Stitch Sweater Jacket - XXSP {Purchased}

This is still full price right now but you get 30% off in-store and online (code: PRESIDENT). It's still pretty expensive but since it's more of a blazer/jacket, I didn't want to risk not finding my size. I have been eyeing this for over a month now and just happened to stumble upon it today.  I love the vintage-inspired textured look and the decorative brass toned buttons in the front and on the sleeves. The fit is amazing and feels tailored.  It's one of those items that just feels right when I have it on. I can't wait to pair it with my new Ann Taylor green ponte skirt (coming in the mail).

Loft Rugby Striped Sweater Dress - XXSP  {Purchased}

Cotton Trench in picnic orange - XXSP 

If you go to the clearance section, there are tons of sweaters that you can score for dirt cheap. I got a white ribbed crewneck sweater for around $7. It's an additional 40% off sale items.  I can already see it being paired with my new sunglow collar necklace (coming soon).  LOFT is also running their $25 savings card promotion when you spend $50, you get $50 in savings cards.  The savings card is valid from 3/11-3/25. (only applies to full-priced items)

Ann Taylor has some amazing new arrivals and I just purchased these a few days ago:

- Ponte seamed skirt (greenhouse)
- Parrallel dot tucked sleeveless dress (navy)
- Knit sheath dress (lapis blue)
- Perfect patent neon skinny belt (shocking pink)

Have a great weekend! : )

Dress: Forever 21 worn as a skirt - size small (buy here in 3 colors $9.50 or similar here)

Sweater: J.Crew in light citron- size XXS (buy here)

Jacket: LOFT {old} - size 00P (similar here and love this)

Boots: Halogen Brianna - size 4.5 (buy here)

Necklace: BCBG (similar here or designer)

**Giveaway closed**

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, Naomi for Stella Dot graciously offered to give this Bardot Spiral Bangle to one lucky reader! A value of $59! The diameter measures at 2 1/2".  

To be fair, all entries will be verified. Happy Valentine's Day and good luck! :)

Blouse: Ann Taylor- size 00P (buy here) 

Skirt: Ann Taylor - size 00P (buy here)

Belt: Ann Taylor - size XS (this year's version)

Necklace: C/0 Naomi for Stella Dot (buy here)

Shoes: Ann Taylor - size 5 (buy here)
Purse: Chanel WOC

I purchased this blouse as a filler awhile back and ended up loving it. It fits really nicely and the color is gorgeous. I'm shocked to see that's currently on sale right now (small sizes avail) plus an additional 40% off! I highly recommend it because the pleated placket helps with the blouse not pulling and no peepholes in-between buttons (biggest problem for me).  The shoulders and sleeves fit nicely and tucks well with skirts.

This crossing paths skirt has been left un-worn because I haven't had time to take it to the tailor's to get the waist taken in and the sides slimmed. I am hoisting it up with my belt and doing a few tricks to make it appear like it fits from the front. If you saw the back view, it's all bunchy and gross. 

Thanks Naomi for StellaDot for sending me this gorgeous Sophia pearl bib necklace. It's a big statement piece but elegant at the same time. It looks great with a sheath dress or under a blouse. If you are interested in making any purchases, make sure to mention REALLYPETITE20 for 20% off your order (offer expires 2/25/12). You must contact her directly in order for the code to work. Stay tuned for a giveaway this week : )

I picked up this berlin vest in XXSP for $32 (stackable with 20% off coupon from a mailer). **each code can be only used once**

- Ruffle front sleeveles top in shooting star (ordered awhile back but they sent me the wrong color- see review on northern twilight color)

- Pleated placket long sleeve blouse in chartreuse (outfit post coming tomorrow- see sneak peek on instagram )

Cap Sleeve Pleated Blouse in Belize Blue - size Small

Skirt: Ann Taylor {hemmed} - size 00P (similar here and here)

Shoes: Ann Taylor - size 5 (this year's version here or adorable snakeskin)

Sheer Blouse in Blush Dots - size XS

Belt: Ann Taylor - size XS (similar here)

Likes: This was really the only item that I had my eye on and was shocked to have found 2! The extra one is already on it's way to another blogger.  I love the soft blush color and adorable polka-dots. It's a very feminine blouse that I know with some alterations, it would look amazing. 

Dislikes: The sizing is gigantic. The sleeves are super wide and long. I cuffed them up just to make them look decent. The blouse will require sliming and sleeve alterations. Is it really worth it? Still haven't decided.

Verdict: Not sure. Is it worth tailoring? I decided after writing this that it's much too large. I promised a Facebook fan she could have this but if she doesn't end up wanting it, it will be up for grabs.

What are your thoughts on both blouses? I wasn't too impressed with the collection.  I tried on several more items and everything ran really big.  It was quite disappointing.  I also noticed the quality was subpar for the prices.  I think H&M has better stuff for cheaper.  For more reviews, check out SewPetiteGal and WithEachPassingDay's fitting room posts.