Henrietta Pertuz Petites Fall 2010 - Drew Silk Blouse

Some of you may remember Henrietta Pertuz Petites from this post and this post. The NYC-based petite fashion designer is out with her Fall/Winter collection with extended sizes (00P to 14P in certain items). Starting at $195+, her items are truly "investment" pieces, boasting classic silhouettes and luxurious imported fabrics.

 I was thrilled to receive the Drew blouse for review:

Silk Blouse: Henrietta Pertuz "Drew" in 0P (buy here)

Jeans: Gap legging jeans in kids sz 12

Booties: Calvin Klein "Hadrian" sz 6
Blazer: (pictured below) Theory 00
Necklace: J.Crew

Continue reading for more photos...

Drew Blouse description: "A classic, chic silhouette with vertical details to elongate your frame.  Gorgeous silk crepe de chine fabric looks equally great with wool or denim." Comes in three colors.

Measurements of a 0P: 12" across the shoulders, 16" across the chest, 17.5" across the bottom hem, 10" sleeve length, and 20" total length.

Material: 100% silk (lined). Made in the USA

I think this blouse is the most versatile piece in her collection. The above-the-elbow sleeve length is unexpectedly chic - I don't have anything in my wardrobe with sleeves at this length. The fit of this top is breezy, but the narrow shoulders and tailoring keeps it looking put together. I have been wearing it over skinny jeans as well as black pants for work.

*Note - Gap kids leggings jeans pictured above were returned after I tried on their adult legging jeans. As mentioned previously, the adult ones are my new love. Post to come soon!*

Love, love nice details...delicately gathered princess shoulders, neat pleating down the center, shell -like back buttons, and fully-lined torso:

Tried wearing this blouse tucked into a skirt for work, but due to the flowy shape it is hard to tuck neatly. I added an elasticized waist belt to conceal the gathering. What do you guys think? Better untucked over pants?

I have my eye on Henrietta's new wool dresses (Kelly shift and Morning to Moonlight shift). They are so simple yet classic for work or cocktails. Word on the street is that a petite blogger favorite will be reviewing one of them soon, so keep your eyes peeled : )

Disclosure: Blouse pictured is courtesy of Henrietta Pertuz. Thank you, Henrietta!

Henrietta Pertuz Petites Fall 2010 - Drew Silk Blouse

Some of you may remember Henrietta Pertuz Petites from this post and this post. The NYC-based petite fashion designer is out with her Fall/Winter collection with extended sizes (00P to 14P in certain items). Starting at $195+, her items are truly "investment" pieces, boasting classic silhouettes and luxurious imported fabrics.

 I was thrilled to receive the Drew blouse for review:

Silk Blouse: Henrietta Pertuz "Drew" in 0P (buy here)

Jeans: Gap legging jeans in kids sz 12

Booties: Calvin Klein "Hadrian" sz 6
Blazer: (pictured below) Theory 00
Necklace: J.Crew

Continue reading for more photos...

Drew Blouse description: "A classic, chic silhouette with vertical details to elongate your frame.  Gorgeous silk crepe de chine fabric looks equally great with wool or denim." Comes in three colors.

Measurements of a 0P: 12" across the shoulders, 16" across the chest, 17.5" across the bottom hem, 10" sleeve length, and 20" total length.

Material: 100% silk (lined). Made in the USA

I think this blouse is the most versatile piece in her collection. The above-the-elbow sleeve length is unexpectedly chic - I don't have anything in my wardrobe with sleeves at this length. The fit of this top is breezy, but the narrow shoulders and tailoring keeps it looking put together. I have been wearing it over skinny jeans as well as black pants for work.

*Note - Gap kids leggings jeans pictured above were returned after I tried on their adult legging jeans. As mentioned previously, the adult ones are my new love. Post to come soon!*

Love, love nice details...delicately gathered princess shoulders, neat pleating down the center, shell -like back buttons, and fully-lined torso:

Tried wearing this blouse tucked into a skirt for work, but due to the flowy shape it is hard to tuck neatly. I added an elasticized waist belt to conceal the gathering. What do you guys think? Better untucked over pants?

I have my eye on Henrietta's new wool dresses (Kelly shift and Morning to Moonlight shift). They are so simple yet classic for work or cocktails. Word on the street is that a petite blogger favorite will be reviewing one of them soon, so keep your eyes peeled : )

Disclosure: Blouse pictured is courtesy of Henrietta Pertuz. Thank you, Henrietta!

Giveaway Time!

Petites designer Henrietta Pertuz generously agreed to award her Newport Blouse to one lucky reader. In case you missed my previous posts, here I am modeling her Lisa bustier, and here I am wearing her Molly dress.

Giveaway prize: Henrietta Pertuz Newport Silk Blouse ($148)

In Sage Green (above) and Hydrangea Pink (below)

Winner will get her choice of color as well as size (comes in size 0P to 12P; I will email a size chart to the winner). This blouse is made of 100% silk imported from Italy - so luxurious! It slips on for a comfortable fit and has a keyhole back closure. Henrietta's items are designed for women 5'4" and under, so if you are taller, this top may fit differently on you.

I think the Newport Blouse is a great giveaway item because it can be flattering on women of various ages and body types. For work, I can see it tucked into a high-waisted pencil skirt or worn under a blazer. Continue reading for the giveaway rules...

Giveaway rules:

1. Giveaway is open to readers in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, and South Africa. 

2. Entries must be submitted via the form below. 1 form per person, please.

3. Entries will be accepted for two weeks, until midnight EST on May 28th, 2010. Winner will be selected using a random number generator. 

To enter (required):

- Be a public follower of www.extrapetite.com. This is easy to do - click "join this site" via Google Friend Connect on my sidebar (+ 1 entry)
- Visit Henrietta's online store and sign up for her mailing list. This will keep you notified of any new arrivals or promotions (+ 1 entry)

To be fair to everyone, I will check entries against Henrietta's email sign-up list and my Google Friend Connect list.

For extra entries (optional):

- Blog about this giveaway or post the following button on your sidebar (+ 2 entries):

- Tweet the following (+ 1 entry): Enter the @Petiteasiangirl and @HenriettaPertuz giveaway to win a $148 silk ruffled blouse! Visit http://www.extrapetite.com 

Max total of 5 entries per person. Good luck! Please feel free to ask any questions within the comments.

****The giveaway has ended. Thank you everyone who participated!****

Giveaway Time!

Petites designer Henrietta Pertuz generously agreed to award her Newport Blouse to one lucky reader. In case you missed my previous posts, here I am modeling her Lisa bustier, and here I am wearing her Molly dress.

Giveaway prize: Henrietta Pertuz Newport Silk Blouse ($148)

In Sage Green (above) and Hydrangea Pink (below)

Winner will get her choice of color as well as size (comes in size 0P to 12P; I will email a size chart to the winner). This blouse is made of 100% silk imported from Italy - so luxurious! It slips on for a comfortable fit and has a keyhole back closure. Henrietta's items are designed for women 5'4" and under, so if you are taller, this top may fit differently on you.

I think the Newport Blouse is a great giveaway item because it can be flattering on women of various ages and body types. For work, I can see it tucked into a high-waisted pencil skirt or worn under a blazer. Continue reading for the giveaway rules...

Giveaway rules:

1. Giveaway is open to readers in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, and South Africa. 

2. Entries must be submitted via the form below. 1 form per person, please.

3. Entries will be accepted for two weeks, until midnight EST on May 28th, 2010. Winner will be selected using a random number generator. 

To enter (required):

- Be a public follower of www.extrapetite.com. This is easy to do - click "join this site" via Google Friend Connect on my sidebar (+ 1 entry)
- Visit Henrietta's online store and sign up for her mailing list. This will keep you notified of any new arrivals or promotions (+ 1 entry)

To be fair to everyone, I will check entries against Henrietta's email sign-up list and my Google Friend Connect list.

For extra entries (optional):

- Blog about this giveaway or post the following button on your sidebar (+ 2 entries):

- Tweet the following (+ 1 entry): Enter the @Petiteasiangirl and @HenriettaPertuz giveaway to win a $148 silk ruffled blouse! Visit http://www.extrapetite.com 

Max total of 5 entries per person. Good luck! Please feel free to ask any questions within the comments.

****The giveaway has ended. Thank you everyone who participated!****

Petite Bustier Pieces that Run Small

Ever since I discovered Chloe's blog, I've become corset and bustier-obsessed (see my fave Nanette Lepore corsets on her here and here). Sadly, I have yet to come across a nice (non-racy, non-gothic...) structured bustier that fits me right. Either the boning is awkward, the molded cups are too big, or the length is too long. I came close to taking an F21 one to the tailor, then realized how silly that was.

When I first browsed Henrietta Pertuz's petites collection, my eyes were instantly drawn to the gingham Lisa bustier and the seersucker Ford dress. These pieces come in sizes 0P-12P, and have the classic bustier shape I am seeking with some contemporary details. Henrietta kindly offered to send me the Ford dress, and without hesitation I asked for the smallest size - 0P.

To my surprise, the 0p was too small for me. Not just a little suck-in-yer-tummy small, but much too small. I guess this is promising news for ladies who are more petite than I am. The back closure of the dress is comprised of a zipper at the skirt, and hook-and-eye closure clips at the bust. I managed to get the zipper up but there was no hope for the clips - I hastily snapped some photos (see bottom of post) and returned the dress to Henrietta. This is what she sent back, in size 2P:

Top: Henrietta Pertuz Lisa bustier, sz 2P (sold here)

Pants: brand unknown, waist taken in by my tailor

Shoes: Banana Republic 5.5

The 2P fits me much better, but I still think it is too small for me. Hopefully Henrietta will let me exchange it for another size up. If I had to compare sizing, I would say a 2P in this bustier fits half to one size smaller than Banana Republic 00P fitted tops.

My own approximate measurements of the bustier pieces:
Size 0P: 28" around the widest part of the top; 23" around the smallest part of the waist
Size 2P: 29" around the widest part of the top; 24" around the smallest part of the waist. 15" length.

Disclosure: I received this item courtesy of Henrietta Pertuz. My review here is my personal opinion.
 
What I like: quality, details, and silhouette. The workmanship on these corset pieces blew me away. I used to sew myself so I really appreciate features such as a full lining, non-slip grip trim, tiny pleats along the waist, and perfectly placed boning in the cups and down both sides. These items are not cheap at $168 (top) and $185 (dress), but for really well-crafted, lined & structured pieces, I think the pricing is fair. For reference, the Nanette Lepore corsets I covet retail for $275.

I love how the fitted silhouette gives me an hourglass figure. The layered sweetheart neckline flatters my bust, and the cut makes my waist look small. This top was surprisingly wearable over skirts, jeans, and pants alike. I decided to show it with boot-cut slacks that I don't wear very often.

Suggestions for improvement: sizing consistency. I took a 0P here in the Molly dress but may need a 4P in the bustier pieces - a pretty big difference. I also suggested using stretch fabrics (although a full lining would then be less practical) or incorporate an elastic back panel (like this Theory dress) for more expandable fit. As for the Ford dress, I personally prefer shorter length with higher-waisted skirts. Henrietta responded that she is working with a new pattern maker on sizing and will be using stretch fabrics in her Fall 2010 collection. If anyone is interested in these lovely bustier pieces, I recommend taking accurate upper body measurements and emailing Henrietta for sizing advice.

Here are some photos that I took in the Ford dress to show the silhouette. This is such a sweet dress that reminds me of the old south. Keep in mind that these photos are not representative of how the 0P fits - the dress was too small for me so the back is actually halfway open. Click photos to enlarge.

Belt: H&M sz XS; Necklace: J.Crew; Wedges: BCBGirls 5.5

Truly awesome craftsmanship:

Even the side pockets are lined in floral print. The bustier is also lined in the same print, but in pink.

Stay tuned for Henrietta's petite giveaway in the next day or two. I'll post the rules and prize as soon as I have time to make an entry form.

Petite Bustier Pieces that Run Small

Ever since I discovered Chloe's blog, I've become corset and bustier-obsessed (see my fave Nanette Lepore corsets on her here and here). Sadly, I have yet to come across a nice (non-racy, non-gothic...) structured bustier that fits me right. Either the boning is awkward, the molded cups are too big, or the length is too long. I came close to taking an F21 one to the tailor, then realized how silly that was.

When I first browsed Henrietta Pertuz's petites collection, my eyes were instantly drawn to the gingham Lisa bustier and the seersucker Ford dress. These pieces come in sizes 0P-12P, and have the classic bustier shape I am seeking with some contemporary details. Henrietta kindly offered to send me the Ford dress, and without hesitation I asked for the smallest size - 0P.

To my surprise, the 0p was too small for me. Not just a little suck-in-yer-tummy small, but much too small. I guess this is promising news for ladies who are more petite than I am. The back closure of the dress is comprised of a zipper at the skirt, and hook-and-eye closure clips at the bust. I managed to get the zipper up but there was no hope for the clips - I hastily snapped some photos (see bottom of post) and returned the dress to Henrietta. This is what she sent back, in size 2P:

Top: Henrietta Pertuz Lisa bustier, sz 2P (sold here)

Pants: brand unknown, waist taken in by my tailor

Shoes: Banana Republic 5.5

The 2P fits me much better, but I still think it is too small for me. Hopefully Henrietta will let me exchange it for another size up. If I had to compare sizing, I would say a 2P in this bustier fits half to one size smaller than Banana Republic 00P fitted tops.

My own approximate measurements of the bustier pieces:
Size 0P: 28" around the widest part of the top; 23" around the smallest part of the waist
Size 2P: 29" around the widest part of the top; 24" around the smallest part of the waist. 15" length.

Disclosure: I received this item courtesy of Henrietta Pertuz. My review here is my personal opinion.
 
What I like: quality, details, and silhouette. The workmanship on these corset pieces blew me away. I used to sew myself so I really appreciate features such as a full lining, non-slip grip trim, tiny pleats along the waist, and perfectly placed boning in the cups and down both sides. These items are not cheap at $168 (top) and $185 (dress), but for really well-crafted, lined & structured pieces, I think the pricing is fair. For reference, the Nanette Lepore corsets I covet retail for $275.

I love how the fitted silhouette gives me an hourglass figure. The layered sweetheart neckline flatters my bust, and the cut makes my waist look small. This top was surprisingly wearable over skirts, jeans, and pants alike. I decided to show it with boot-cut slacks that I don't wear very often.

Suggestions for improvement: sizing consistency. I took a 0P here in the Molly dress but may need a 4P in the bustier pieces - a pretty big difference. I also suggested using stretch fabrics (although a full lining would then be less practical) or incorporate an elastic back panel (like this Theory dress) for more expandable fit. As for the Ford dress, I personally prefer shorter length with higher-waisted skirts. Henrietta responded that she is working with a new pattern maker on sizing and will be using stretch fabrics in her Fall 2010 collection. If anyone is interested in these lovely bustier pieces, I recommend taking accurate upper body measurements and emailing Henrietta for sizing advice.

Here are some photos that I took in the Ford dress to show the silhouette. This is such a sweet dress that reminds me of the old south. Keep in mind that these photos are not representative of how the 0P fits - the dress was too small for me so the back is actually halfway open. Click photos to enlarge.

Belt: H&M sz XS; Necklace: J.Crew; Wedges: BCBGirls 5.5

Truly awesome craftsmanship:

Even the side pockets are lined in floral print. The bustier is also lined in the same print, but in pink.

Stay tuned for Henrietta's petite giveaway in the next day or two. I'll post the rules and prize as soon as I have time to make an entry form.

Wear it 3 ways: Henrietta Pertuz "Molly" Dress

Happy Monday, readers! I have some exciting news for this week : ) Today I am thrilled to share a new petite-friendly brand with you guys, and later this week there will be a giveaway (open internationally) so readers will have a chance to win something special by this brand.

Henrietta Pertuz clothing is not just "petite-friendly" - the entire line by the NYC advertising account exec-turned-fashion designer is made especially for women 5'4" and under. There are no signs of boxy suits or matronly dresses in her petites collection. Just fitted bustiers, silk pleated dresses, adorable cuffed trouser shorts, and more goodies. Per Henrietta, her line consists of affordable "investment pieces" made with luxurious fabrics and quality workmanship. Special attention is paid to all aspects of fit. Her contemporary collection reminds me of my beloved Theory, but more feminine and colorful.

Brand Snapshot:

Designer: Henrietta Pertuz, 34. Click here to read her petite shopping tips.
First Collection: Fall 2009
Sizes: 0P to 12P (may expand to 00P to 14P)
Ships to: USA (free), Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, and South Africa
Return Policy: 30 days
Price Range: $118-$195
Items Made In: USA

Henrietta sent a few items from her collection for me to try on. Today I will show the "Molly" dress, and on Wednesday I will show the "Lisa" bustier and announce the giveaway subsequently.

Dress: Henrietta Pertuz Molly in 0P

Jacket: Theory Gratian in 00

Pumps: Aldo Arnoldoa.

The "Molly" dress was introduced in 2009 and was so popular that Henrietta made it in new colors for Spring 2010. The dress is 100% silk, and has a row of pleats down the front center to elongate the body. The color I am wearing in the photos is from last Fall, but right now it is available in bright Berry, Chartreuse, and Pale Pink. My favorite is the Chartreuse...look at how striking it is against a tan!

*Note - the models above are approx. 5'5" and 5'6." I suggested to Henrietta to use true petite models for future collections so that shoppers can better gauge how the items fit.

I took photos wearing the Molly dress a few different ways, and couldn't decide which one to show - so here are all three:

1. Work - by throwing on a little tweed blazer and some black pumps, this dress instantly becomes business casual appropriate for me. Click photos to enlarge.

 

2. Summer Casual - when paired with strappy flats and a summer satchel, this dress is perfect for drinks or dinner on a warm evening. I think the true test of an item's "petite-friendliness" is whether it looks good with flats, instead of 3 or 4 inch heels. This dress hits 2-3 inches above my knees. I am willing to go even shorter in length, but have no qualms with this length on me. Shoes: Miss Trish of Capri for Target, size 5.5, Satchel: LV Speedy 25

3. Cocktail - I added a thin satin belt and bling-y sandals to make this evening appropriate. Belt: Theory (came with a dress), Shoes: Zara 5.5

Disclosure: I received this item courtesy of Henrietta Pertuz. My review here is my personal opinion.

I loved this dress and found it to be truly versatile. Right off the bat, the details stood out: delicate ruching on both shoulders and sleeve cuffs, small gold twist buttons on the cuffs and back, and neatly stitched pleats. The silk is smooth and the color is rich. A size 0P turned out to be a perfect fit on me, measuring 12" across the shoulders, 16" across the widest part of the bust, 31.5" length, and has 22.5" long sleeves. The dress is unlined, so I wore a long seamless tank underneath.

I wore the dress for several hours and small wrinkles appeared at the underarm area, but a steam during a hot shower removed most of it. Overall, I am pleasantly surprised by the quality and fit of this piece. Check out the dress for sale here. Which of the above ways to wear it is your favorite?

Wear it 3 ways: Henrietta Pertuz "Molly" Dress

Happy Monday, readers! I have some exciting news for this week : ) Today I am thrilled to share a new petite-friendly brand with you guys, and later this week there will be a giveaway (open internationally) so readers will have a chance to win something special by this brand.

Henrietta Pertuz clothing is not just "petite-friendly" - the entire line by the NYC advertising account exec-turned-fashion designer is made especially for women 5'4" and under. There are no signs of boxy suits or matronly dresses in her petites collection. Just fitted bustiers, silk pleated dresses, adorable cuffed trouser shorts, and more goodies. Per Henrietta, her line consists of affordable "investment pieces" made with luxurious fabrics and quality workmanship. Special attention is paid to all aspects of fit. Her contemporary collection reminds me of my beloved Theory, but more feminine and colorful.

Brand Snapshot:

Designer: Henrietta Pertuz, 34. Click here to read her petite shopping tips.
First Collection: Fall 2009
Sizes: 0P to 12P (may expand to 00P to 14P)
Ships to: USA (free), Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, and South Africa
Return Policy: 30 days
Price Range: $118-$195
Items Made In: USA

Henrietta sent a few items from her collection for me to try on. Today I will show the "Molly" dress, and on Wednesday I will show the "Lisa" bustier and announce the giveaway subsequently.

Dress: Henrietta Pertuz Molly in 0P

Jacket: Theory Gratian in 00

Pumps: Aldo Arnoldoa.

The "Molly" dress was introduced in 2009 and was so popular that Henrietta made it in new colors for Spring 2010. The dress is 100% silk, and has a row of pleats down the front center to elongate the body. The color I am wearing in the photos is from last Fall, but right now it is available in bright Berry, Chartreuse, and Pale Pink. My favorite is the Chartreuse...look at how striking it is against a tan!

*Note - the models above are approx. 5'5" and 5'6." I suggested to Henrietta to use true petite models for future collections so that shoppers can better gauge how the items fit.

I took photos wearing the Molly dress a few different ways, and couldn't decide which one to show - so here are all three:

1. Work - by throwing on a little tweed blazer and some black pumps, this dress instantly becomes business casual appropriate for me. Click photos to enlarge.

 

2. Summer Casual - when paired with strappy flats and a summer satchel, this dress is perfect for drinks or dinner on a warm evening. I think the true test of an item's "petite-friendliness" is whether it looks good with flats, instead of 3 or 4 inch heels. This dress hits 2-3 inches above my knees. I am willing to go even shorter in length, but have no qualms with this length on me. Shoes: Miss Trish of Capri for Target, size 5.5, Satchel: LV Speedy 25

3. Cocktail - I added a thin satin belt and bling-y sandals to make this evening appropriate. Belt: Theory (came with a dress), Shoes: Zara 5.5

Disclosure: I received this item courtesy of Henrietta Pertuz. My review here is my personal opinion.

I loved this dress and found it to be truly versatile. Right off the bat, the details stood out: delicate ruching on both shoulders and sleeve cuffs, small gold twist buttons on the cuffs and back, and neatly stitched pleats. The silk is smooth and the color is rich. A size 0P turned out to be a perfect fit on me, measuring 12" across the shoulders, 16" across the widest part of the bust, 31.5" length, and has 22.5" long sleeves. The dress is unlined, so I wore a long seamless tank underneath.

I wore the dress for several hours and small wrinkles appeared at the underarm area, but a steam during a hot shower removed most of it. Overall, I am pleasantly surprised by the quality and fit of this piece. Check out the dress for sale here. Which of the above ways to wear it is your favorite?