Stylish Petite | Fashion, Reviews and Petite Style: July 2012

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Gap Kids, Club Monaco and AG Jeans

Left to right: GAP girls polka dot crop- size 12, Girl denim shorts- size 12, Girls printed shorts - size 12,

The tee is a size large in girls. All these items were on major clearance. I took home the dotted pants, denim shorts and anchor tee.

AG cigerette rolled skinnies - size 24

My sister is obsessed with AG jeans and made me try on a pair at Macy's. Not all AG jeans are petite friendly but there are a few pairs that fit nicely. This is definitely one of them. I got lucky and these were on clearance plus I had an additional $25 off. It's still steep for jeans but these are by far the best fitting and most comfortable jeans I have ever tried on.

Club Monaco red crochet skirt- size 00

I have never shopped at Club Monaco before but fell in love with this skirt instantly. It fits nicely with no alterations. I loved it so much that I tracked down the cream version that was on sale from another store. It's extremely pricey but it's very well made and I know I will get a lot of wear out of it. It fits better than my Modcloth crochet I had to take in the sides and waist.

Sorry for the back to back posts but wanted to share with you my shopping finds in case anyone wants to pick them up! Hope everyone is having a great week!

Fitting Room: H&M New Arrivals

Blazer: H&M -size 2

Tank: H&M l.o.g.g - size XS

Jeans: Old Navy in sea salt - size 0 short (buy HERE)

Belt: taken from H&M dress
This is my airport outfit:)

I am currently visiting my family in the Midwest and it's so good to be home. Here's a shot of downtown. It sure is good to be back! I don't have much time so wanted to share a quick post on some of the new arrivals at H&M.

H&M Dotted Blouse - size 2 {style #:099551, $14.95}

Ruched Teal Skirt (see HERE)- size XS {066504, $7 - on sale}

H&M Divided Faux Leather Moto Jacket - size 2 {style #:078561, $49.95}
This jacket runs extremely small and is a light ivory color.

H&M Lace Crochet Sheath - size 2 {style #:020189, $49.95}
I love the fit and look of the front but the back is so disappointing.

H&M Burgundy Blouse - size 2 {style #:099551, $14.95}

H&M Divided Stackable rings - size XS, $4.95

I have a size 4 middle finger and a size 5 index finger for size reference - these rings do run small. If you have sent me emails, I will respond when I get back. If you need me immediately, the best wayt o get a hold of me is through Twitter:)

Forever 21 Two Tone Lace Trim Dress

Forever 21 - size Small
Shoes: Ann Taylor perfect patent - size 5 (buy HERE)

Measurements: Total length = 33", armpit to armpit = 16", waist = 12", shoulder width = 11.5"

I had high hopes for this dress based on the reviews and measurements but there a few issues.

Likes: I love the blush/peach color with the contrast eyelash black lace trim. It's so dainty and feminine. The length is perfect on someone my height. The dress is partially lined on the bottom which is rare for F21 dresses. You can wear nude panties and not have to worry about sheerness. I like that the waist is elasticized with belt loops and a detachable tonal self-tie belt. I am going to try switching out the belt and see how it looks.

Dislikes: The armholes are big (see side view of dress above). There is additional fabric bunching out on the sides and above the waistline.

Verdict: I had a merchandise credit I had to get rid of and this is the best thing I have found recently. I am going to see if my Mom can fix some of the issues and make it look better.

***This is a scheduled post and will be unavailable to answer any questions until a later date. If you need a fast response, please tweet me!***

What are your thoughts on this dress?

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Burgundy Lace Pencil Skirt for $9.50

Top: Banana Republic - size 00P (buy HERE)

Skirt: Forever 21 - size small (comes in 3 colors - buy HERE)

Necklace: C/O Stella Dot

Shoes: Ann Taylor - size 5 (buy HERE)

Scarf: Gift from friend (similar HERE and HERE)

We all know Forever 21 has generous sizing so you can imagine how happy I was that this skirt fit perfectly. I am in love with the rich burgundy color and have a feeling we will be seeing much more of this color for Fall. The waist, hips and length all fit someone my size w/out alterations. The price tag of $9.50 is unbeatable and the skirt is fully lined...finally something that fits from F21. It comes in two other colors, black and a gorgeous taupe. I would definitely recommend this skirt. It's work appropriate and I can already see it being worn frequently in the Fall/Winter with tights and a blazer.

*This is a scheduled post and will be unable to respond to questions/comments until a later date. Feel free to tweet me!**

Friday, July 27, 2012

Review: Banana Republic Lightweight Wool Sheath Dress

Banana Republic Grey Plaid Lightweight Sheath- size 00P
Shoes: Calvin Klein - size 5

Measurements: Shoulder to shoulder = 12", Armpit to armpit = 12.5", Waist = 12", Hips= 16", Total Length = 36.5

Material: 70% wool, 25% poly, 5% spandex, Dry Clean only, fully lined

Likes: I love the silhouette of this sheath dress. It's narrower than the typical BR dress and I love that it has pockets! I like the mini pleats on the bust as well, adds a nice touch to the dress. Bonus points for this dress having sleeves. I've been looking for more sheath dresses with sleeves.

Dislikes: The length is just slightly too long. The neckline is a bit lower than I prefer especially for work. It's lower than what it shows in the photos and if I bent down, it wouldn't be good. I feel like the grey plaid is a bit dated too. I'm also not a big fan of the matching belt either. I would probably swap out the belt for something else.

Verdict: Return

I was supposed to get this dress but instead they sent me this navy sheath {style # }. I can't find it anywhere online..so bizarre!

Measurements: Shoulder to shoulder = 12.5", Armpit to armpit = 13", Waist = 12", Hips = 16", Total length=36.5"

Material: 95% wool, 5% spandex, Dry Clean only, fully lined

Likes: I love the navy color and the straight silhouette (very slimming). I've been into navy a lot lately and it's a nice change from black. I really like the front pleated detailing and that it has sleeves.

Dislikes: The v-neck is hangs really low and there is a gap that makes the chest area pouf out and you can see straight down the dress. I tried to capture it with the photos but it was nearly impossible. If it wasn't for this issue, I would definitely keep this dress.

Verdict: Possibly selling to a reader - haven't decided yet

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Petite Fashion Challenge #18: Date Night

This month's petite fashion challenge is being hosted by Amber from Easy Petite Looks.
The challenge is:
"What to wear to impress your date"

Dress: Zara TRF {see mint HERE} - size small (similar HERE and HERE)

Sweater: Aqua girls cashmere {old} - (similar HERE and HERE)

Necklace: Forever 21 (buy HERE)

Shoes: Christian Louboutin - size 34.5 (buy HERE)

Clutch: H&M (similar HERE and HERE)

Hubby and I try to have date night at least once a week. I think it's really important to do this especially if you have a super busy schedule. I like that we carve out special time for each other with no distractions. Plus, it's always fun getting dressed up and going to a nice dinner :)

I debated between the mint and this pink peach color and I went with my heart and kept the pink. It's one of my new favorite dresses. It fits so nicely and I love that it's super comfortable too. I'm looking forward to seeing all the date night outfits!

This has been Petite Fashion #18:

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Review: Cache Paisley Chain Print Dress

Paisley Chain Print Dress - size XS

I have a couple of dresses from Cache but it's been quite a long time since I've been in the store. Their prices are much higher than I would prefer so I've stayed away for awhile. After my failed ASOS scarf print dress earlier this year (see here), I have been looking for a replacement dress. I was thrilled when my eyes saw this pretty print that had the same vibrant colors as the ASOS dress but the big difference was the quality and that it's work appropriate. The ASOS dress was skin tight, short and paper thin/see through - a total fail. I was even more excited when I tried this on and it ran super small (see fitting room photo here).

Cache does not offer petite sizing but the two dresses I do own run really small. They used to carry size P (petite) but I haven't seen this lately. See my oldie posts here and here with my coral Cache dress in size P.

Size/Measurements: Shoulder to shoulder = 13.5", armpit to armpit = 14", waist is 11", total length = 35". I am wearing an XS. It fits me perfectly.
The only complaint I have is that it's a v-neck and I will have to wear a cami underneath. I'm thinking about even sewing a little stitch to keep it closed and make it more conservative for work. This dress has a faux wrap and usually if this is the case, the fit is usually hit or miss. Luckily, the waist is small enough so you don't have to pull the wrap super tight (like you do with some wrap dresses) to make it fit (hopefully that makes sense). I love the length of the dress. It hits right in the middle of my knee caps which is a great length for work.

Material: 94% Polyester and 6% spandex. Machine washable. The dress is partially lined on the bottom which is a huge plus.

Quality: From what I can tell, the quality is much better than the typical H&M and ASOS. I would say it's comparable to Ann Taylor quality. I've had my other Cache dresses from years ago and both have held up really well.

Return Policy: In case you have never shopped here before, the return policy isn't the greatest. You have only 14 days to return items for a full refund. I definitely don't like this. It would be nice if they offered the standard 30 days. I like to think things over before deciding if I will keep it.

Price: Regular price is $138 - on sale for $79. $138 for a polyester dress is insane. Even at the sales price of $79 is way too much. I think it's worth around $40.

Verdict: I really want to keep it but am having trouble with the price.....$79 is a bit steep for a polyester dress. I can see myself wearing this with a white, black or even yellow blazer for work. It's different than my other dresses and adds some new flavor to my wardrobe so I am leaning towards keeping.

Other dresses that caught my eye but didn't have time to try on were: (I'll have to go back when I have more time but am in love w/the blue and jade dresses.)

Here are some tops that have potential: (I am waiting for the tweed fringe jacket to go on sale)

They had tons of cute accessories but had no time to really look. I did have a chance to try on the gold cuff at the register which runs extra small but is still pricey. The double stone earrings below are on sale for only $11.20 + free shipping.

Get free shipping site wide until Monday, 7/30 (no code needed) and XS is still available online!

What are your thoughts on this dress? Have you shopped here before?

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Hautekeys Vintage Typewriter Key Jewelry

My sister gave me a vintage monogram typewriter key pendant a few years ago for my birthday and I just thought it was the coolest gift. It's different and you don't see it very often. I thought to myself, how great would this be if was turned into cufflinks. I did some research and stumbled upon Hautekeys on Etsy. I worked with Sue, who is the owner and jewelry maker. She is super sweet and has been so patient waiting for me to get this post up. She specializes in vintage typewriter jewelry. You can customize earrings, necklaces, cufflinks and bracelets. You can read more about her shop HERE.

Custom initial cufflinks c/o HauteKeys

I know this is supposed to be a woman's fashion blog but I thought this was good enough to share. I don't know about you, but shopping for my husband is one of the hardest things. What do you get a man that is super picky and has everything? For birthday's and anniversaries, I am always stumped on what to get him. I thought these were super unique and I love the fact that they came from a vintage typewriter - how cool is that?

My hubby wears a suit to work everyday and that usually includes cuff links depending on his shirt. Most of his dress shirts are french cuffs so I knew he would be able to get a lot of use out of these. Hautekey's prices are very reasonable and offers free repairs on all pieces within the first six months. They will gladly take returns {original condition} within the first 30 days and offers a full refund. You can read more about their policies HERE. The Etsy listings are set up for international shipping to Australia, Canada, UK and Ireland but they are happy to ship elsewhere when requested.

So if you are looking for a unique gift for someone, I would highly recommend Hautekeys. Thanks Hautekeys, my husband loves them and has worn them many times already:)
Disclaimer: These cufflinks were provided as a courtesy from Hautekeys.
What are your thoughts on vintage typewriter key jewelry?

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Zara Neon Yellow Sandals

Top: Ann Taylor factory {old} - size XXSP (similar HERE and HERE)

Belt: H&M - size XS (similar HERE and HERE)

Jeans: Old Navy - size 0R (buy HERE)

Bracelet: C/O Stella Dot & J.Crew cabochon - (super cute HERE and HERE)
Earrings: Chanel

Shoes: Zara TRF - size 5 (similar HERE and HERE)

I have always adored Zara shoes but the smallest size I have seen is a 6. I was so excited when I found these neon sandals online under the TRF category. I couldn't believe they were on sale ($39.99) and available in a size 5. I quickly ordered hoping they would fit. They run TTS (true to size) but since I am a small size 5, they are a bit loose. Luckily the ankle straps help hold my feet in.

Old Navy has brought back the Rock Star jeans (new and improved) in 31 different colors. I am wearing a 0 regular and they are way to long for me. I don't like how they fit compared to my 0 short ruby jeggings. I just ordered the sea salt in 0 Short to compare to the marshmallow color I am wearing. Here is a snapshot of some of the colors:

A great big thanks to AubreyOhDang for picking up this H&M chain belt for me. I couldn't find it at my local store and she was kind enough to send me one. This belt runs extra small so you may need to size up. I am wearing an XS. It fits perfectly on the last hole when worn on my natural or high waist {with skirts/sheath dresses} but when I want to wear it on my lower hip, the first hole is a bit tight. I would suggest sizing up if you prefer wearing it with jeans/pants. See it worn two different ways HERE - one with the buckle in the front or with the chain showing.

Nail Polish: Essie Braziliant

I love my J.Crew cabochon bracelet I found on final clearance for $13. Of course a day or two after, they ran their 40% off sale items....I hate when that happens! The bracelet fits loose on me and I contemplated removing one stone to make it fit better but that may be a bit too much work:)

This is an outfit I would wear out to lunch/dinner or on the weekends. It's casual yet it still feels feminine.

If you want to see another photo of me in my car, I posted it here. I am trying to rebuild my new Facebook fan page so any support would be greatly appreciated :)

Are you a fan of Zara shoes?

Friday, July 20, 2012

Volume III: Recent Purchases

1. Two tone lace trim dress - size small (reviews and sizing look promising)
2. Grey plaid wool sheath - size 00P (review coming soon)
3. Cabochon and crystal stretch bracelet (found the yellow color in-store for $13)
4. Navy wool sheath - size 00P (review coming soon)

I am so frustrated and annoyed that I still haven't received my Ann Taylor orders that includes the following:

1. Ponte seamed pencil skirt in ripe avocado {so anxious}

2. Ponte seamed skirt in hypnotic pink {so anxious}

3. Platform wedges in natural

4. Tiered swing dress

5. Stitched jersey dress

6. Embossed leather slingback

On another note, I'm looking for another H&M yellow blazer as seen HERE and HERE for a fellow reader/friend in a size 2. If you happen to see one, please let me know:) I am on the hunt for the red version too:

{photo credit}

I have regretted selling my orange/red H&M blazer seen HERE last year and have been looking for a replacement. I must find this color! I wish everyone a fabulous weekend!