Petite Lookbook: Crochet and the Blues

A few weeks ago I saw this darling skirt on ModCloth and fell in love. It had poor reviews, but upon a closer read, I saw most purchasers were just disgruntled at how small/short it ran (jackpot!). The skirt was sold out then, so I signed up for a restock notification. Last week, an S popped back, and I pounced.

Top: Converse for Target chambray shirt, sz XS (taken in) (buy here)

Jacket: H&M sz 2   Belt: came w/ Forever 21 shorts

Skirt: Social Hour Skirt sz S courtesy of Modcloth

Shoes: I.N.C. (old) (similar here) 

Bag: B.R. Satchel (old)

For those of you who aren't familiar with ModCloth, it's an online retailer founded by a husband-and-wife team who love thrift shopping for vintage finds. A lot of their apparel is hand-picked from smaller, indie designers, and they also have true vintage finds up for sale. New arrivals are updated daily, and the cutest items sell out fast. Shipping is a $7 flat rate, and return shipping is free.

On this sunny but brisk afternoon, I grabbed my trusty chambray shirt and layered on an H&M woven blazer (recent, $34.95). A bright satchel added another dimension of blue, and juicy orange nails brought a spark of interest. I stuck with earthy brown accessories to tie the look together.

This is the same top/belt ensemble as my last outfit post, which just shows how versatile & loved they are.

I realize low-heeled shoes with busy ankle straps do nothing for short legs, but I don't mind. I love the casual-chic look of ankle straps plus the comfort of these low wedges.

For a size S, this skirt runs small but still does not fit me perfectly. It fits similar to a size S from Forever21, and sits lower on my hips. I'm using a wide elastic belt to hold it up higher. This causes bunchiness problems with the lining as I walk, but I still don't feel compelled to get alterations.

For those interested in a dressier, more conservative rendition of this skirt, check out the Ann Taylor Factory (outlet store). My special visitor Jen and I had a field day with these. The skirt retails for $89 and the dress retails for $198 (awfully high for the outlet, I know), but the crochet is heavy and gorgeous in person. When Ann Taylor (regular) came out with this last year, it sold out within days.

The sales weren't too stellar this weekend, and alterations are going to be costly, but I brought this dress home with me to contemplate.

Petite Lookbook: Crochet and the Blues

A few weeks ago I saw this darling skirt on ModCloth and fell in love. It had poor reviews, but upon a closer read, I saw most purchasers were just disgruntled at how small/short it ran (jackpot!). The skirt was sold out then, so I signed up for a restock notification. Last week, an S popped back, and I pounced.

Top: Converse for Target chambray shirt, sz XS (taken in) (buy here)

Jacket: H&M sz 2   Belt: came w/ Forever 21 shorts

Skirt: Social Hour Skirt sz S courtesy of Modcloth

Shoes: I.N.C. (old) (similar here) 

Bag: B.R. Satchel (old)

For those of you who aren't familiar with ModCloth, it's an online retailer founded by a husband-and-wife team who love thrift shopping for vintage finds. A lot of their apparel is hand-picked from smaller, indie designers, and they also have true vintage finds up for sale. New arrivals are updated daily, and the cutest items sell out fast. Shipping is a $7 flat rate, and return shipping is free.

On this sunny but brisk afternoon, I grabbed my trusty chambray shirt and layered on an H&M woven blazer (recent, $34.95). A bright satchel added another dimension of blue, and juicy orange nails brought a spark of interest. I stuck with earthy brown accessories to tie the look together.

This is the same top/belt ensemble as my last outfit post, which just shows how versatile & loved they are.

I realize low-heeled shoes with busy ankle straps do nothing for short legs, but I don't mind. I love the casual-chic look of ankle straps plus the comfort of these low wedges.

For a size S, this skirt runs small but still does not fit me perfectly. It fits similar to a size S from Forever21, and sits lower on my hips. I'm using a wide elastic belt to hold it up higher. This causes bunchiness problems with the lining as I walk, but I still don't feel compelled to get alterations.

For those interested in a dressier, more conservative rendition of this skirt, check out the Ann Taylor Factory (outlet store). My special visitor Jen and I had a field day with these. The skirt retails for $89 and the dress retails for $198 (awfully high for the outlet, I know), but the crochet is heavy and gorgeous in person. When Ann Taylor (regular) came out with this last year, it sold out within days.

The sales weren't too stellar this weekend, and alterations are going to be costly, but I brought this dress home with me to contemplate.

Converse Chambray Comes Out to Play (& small giveaway)

**The winner of the Cameo giveaway is Danielle. Congrats, Danielle!**

Thank you everyone for your sweet comments on my last post. I caught Nick checking back a few times (he usually never reads my blog) just to revel in your praise. Today we're back to the self-tripod pics, which will become synonymous with good sports being on TV.

Since being unexpectedly welcomed as a "keeper" last month, this Converse for Target chambray shirt has quickly ascended to MVP status within my wardrobe. The shade is perfect (not too denim-y), the material is comfy, and it is just too easy to pair. I can't think of a single bottom that it doesn't go with. If you don't have a similar shirt in your wardrobe yet...you are missing out!

Top: Converse for Target Chambray Shirt sz XS

Skirt: BB Dakota "Groton" tweed skirt sz 0

Necklaces: Layered akoya pearls and cameo (both from ebay)

Cardigan: Martin & Osa sz XS (similar)
Shoes: Aldo sz 36 (too big...need 35) (similar) 

The fit of a womens XS right off the rack (see original post here) was passable, but definitely not perfect on me. I thought I shrunk it with a wash & dry, but I was wrong. The material must be pre-shrunk cotton, because it didn't get smaller.

I wore it to my tailors and ended up getting the torso and sleeves slimmed on the spot for a whopping $15 (almost the price of the shirt!). But I couldn't be happier with the results. The subtle 1 inch slimming on both sides and sleeves makes a world of a difference when the shirt is tucked in (before alterations, it was too poofy for tucking).

Like with any button-up shirt, the key is to make sure the shirt fits with a lil' room to spare at the widest part of your bust. This top looks unflattering on the Target model because it's stretched taught across her chest. Larger chested women should possibly order dress shirts in a size up and then have the sides slimmed and waist nipped in. Nothing looks worse than the buttons right at the chest gaping.

While helping Vicky hunt for her cameo, I ended up with an extra one. Please fill out the short form below if you are interested in winning this vintage green Peri signed cameo. I'll select the winner at random later this week. Giveaway is open internationally : )

On a separate note, Target is having buy one get one 50% off shoes right now. If you were considering the Tawny wedges then this isn't a bad deal. Also I've gotten a few questions about my nude Target Virginia pumps. I really don't recommend them (stiff and uncomfortable), but they've come out with another nude/taupe heel that I haven't tried yet called the Pearce pumps. If you're ordering, don't forget to use the retailmenot $5 coupon and ebates for 3% cash back.

Converse Chambray Comes Out to Play (& small giveaway)

**The winner of the Cameo giveaway is Danielle. Congrats, Danielle!**

Thank you everyone for your sweet comments on my last post. I caught Nick checking back a few times (he usually never reads my blog) just to revel in your praise. Today we're back to the self-tripod pics, which will become synonymous with good sports being on TV.

Since being unexpectedly welcomed as a "keeper" last month, this Converse for Target chambray shirt has quickly ascended to MVP status within my wardrobe. The shade is perfect (not too denim-y), the material is comfy, and it is just too easy to pair. I can't think of a single bottom that it doesn't go with. If you don't have a similar shirt in your wardrobe yet...you are missing out!

Top: Converse for Target Chambray Shirt sz XS

Skirt: BB Dakota "Groton" tweed skirt sz 0

Necklaces: Layered akoya pearls and cameo (both from ebay)

Cardigan: Martin & Osa sz XS (similar)
Shoes: Aldo sz 36 (too big...need 35) (similar) 

The fit of a womens XS right off the rack (see original post here) was passable, but definitely not perfect on me. I thought I shrunk it with a wash & dry, but I was wrong. The material must be pre-shrunk cotton, because it didn't get smaller.

I wore it to my tailors and ended up getting the torso and sleeves slimmed on the spot for a whopping $15 (almost the price of the shirt!). But I couldn't be happier with the results. The subtle 1 inch slimming on both sides and sleeves makes a world of a difference when the shirt is tucked in (before alterations, it was too poofy for tucking).

Like with any button-up shirt, the key is to make sure the shirt fits with a lil' room to spare at the widest part of your bust. This top looks unflattering on the Target model because it's stretched taught across her chest. Larger chested women should possibly order dress shirts in a size up and then have the sides slimmed and waist nipped in. Nothing looks worse than the buttons right at the chest gaping.

While helping Vicky hunt for her cameo, I ended up with an extra one. Please fill out the short form below if you are interested in winning this vintage green Peri signed cameo. I'll select the winner at random later this week. Giveaway is open internationally : )

On a separate note, Target is having buy one get one 50% off shoes right now. If you were considering the Tawny wedges then this isn't a bad deal. Also I've gotten a few questions about my nude Target Virginia pumps. I really don't recommend them (stiff and uncomfortable), but they've come out with another nude/taupe heel that I haven't tried yet called the Pearce pumps. If you're ordering, don't forget to use the retailmenot $5 coupon and ebates for 3% cash back.

Petite Lookbook: Remixing the Petite Favorites

As a blogger and avid blog reader, I enjoy taking inspiration and recommendations from others. It's fun to see the same items or outfit tips on different people, but it's also easy to lose one's style identity within this smaller blogging niche. One way I try to incorporate "identity" into outfits composed of ubiquitous petite favorites is through jewelry and layering. I love shopping on eBay and thrift stores for (hopefully) unique pieces, and layering textures to create a different look.

In this outfit are three petite faves: LOFT cuffed pants (Kelly's signature pants : P), AT Factory shell, and AT skinny belt. I added a little lace vest and a basketweave swing jacket for texture, plus thrifted pearls and my coral ring for a pop of color.

See this outfit in LOFT's facebook pants feature : )

Vest: H&M Crochet Lace Vest sz XS (very similar here)

Top: Ann Taylor Factory Chiffon Ruffle Shell sz XXSP (info in this post)

Pants: LOFT Marisa Wool Cuffed Trousers sz 00P

Swing Jacket: Banana Republic sz 0 (altered)
Purse: LV Speedy 25  Belt: Ann Taylor Skinny Belt

These pants were from last season, but LOFT has brought back a similar version in the same Marisa cut, cropped length w/ cuffs, in a dark gray melange material and lightweight wool material. Both are currently available online in 00P. 

Slingbacks: Banana Republic sz 5.5 (old)

With flats (Cole Haan sz 5) for commuting:

Ring: YSL Coral Arty in sz 5 (get 6% cashback w/ ebates)

Pearls: thrifted   Earrings: Chanel turnlock studs

Readers - what defines your personal style? How do you keep it unique?

Petite Lookbook: Remixing the Petite Favorites

As a blogger and avid blog reader, I enjoy taking inspiration and recommendations from others. It's fun to see the same items or outfit tips on different people, but it's also easy to lose one's style identity within this smaller blogging niche. One way I try to incorporate "identity" into outfits composed of ubiquitous petite favorites is through jewelry and layering. I love shopping on eBay and thrift stores for (hopefully) unique pieces, and layering textures to create a different look.

In this outfit are three petite faves: LOFT cuffed pants (Kelly's signature pants : P), AT Factory shell, and AT skinny belt. I added a little lace vest and a basketweave swing jacket for texture, plus thrifted pearls and my coral ring for a pop of color.

See this outfit in LOFT's facebook pants feature : )

Vest: H&M Crochet Lace Vest sz XS (very similar here)

Top: Ann Taylor Factory Chiffon Ruffle Shell sz XXSP (info in this post)

Pants: LOFT Marisa Wool Cuffed Trousers sz 00P

Swing Jacket: Banana Republic sz 0 (altered)
Purse: LV Speedy 25  Belt: Ann Taylor Skinny Belt

These pants were from last season, but LOFT has brought back a similar version in the same Marisa cut, cropped length w/ cuffs, in a dark gray melange material and lightweight wool material. Both are currently available online in 00P. 

Slingbacks: Banana Republic sz 5.5 (old)

With flats (Cole Haan sz 5) for commuting:

Ring: YSL Coral Arty in sz 5 (get 6% cashback w/ ebates)

Pearls: thrifted   Earrings: Chanel turnlock studs

Readers - what defines your personal style? How do you keep it unique?

Warm weather, where art thou?

I entered a contest and will find out next week if I made it to the top three. If that happens, by some stroke of luck, I would love to have the votes of you readers and friends. The voting window is short, from 3-6pm, so I will let you guys know if I make it : )

Ping formally requested more casual outfits, so here are some pics from my contest entry. None of these pieces have seen daylight yet (and won't for 3+ more months) because of dreary New England weather:

Top: Forever 21 Woven Striped Shirt sz S (similar)

Shorts: H&M Belted Trouser Shorts sz 2

Necklace: Temple St. Claire for Target (other TSC for Target)

Shoes: Target Tawny Wedges sz 5.5
Polish: Revlon Vixen (love love)

The F21 woven shirt is from this post. I put this in the washer & dryer and ... wowza, wish I took before photos. Size S was super duper loose on me before, and must've shrunk down at least 2 sizes.

Twitter friends may already know I'm in love with these "UPS brown" high-waisted shorts from H&M. My bf gave a rare thumbs-up and dubbed them my "boy scout shorts." They are a fitted, knit trouser material, and look crisp and tailored. Sz 2 fits snugly on me. They are a recent find and retail for $34.95. Style # 083070 from the "everyday" department.

I decided to keep these brown Tawny Wedges because they are fun and comfortable. However, readers beware...my qualms with the thin wedge heels have proven to be legitimate. Lilly - you poor thing.

Warm weather, where art thou?

I entered a contest and will find out next week if I made it to the top three. If that happens, by some stroke of luck, I would love to have the votes of you readers and friends. The voting window is short, from 3-6pm, so I will let you guys know if I make it : )

Ping formally requested more casual outfits, so here are some pics from my contest entry. None of these pieces have seen daylight yet (and won't for 3+ more months) because of dreary New England weather:

Top: Forever 21 Woven Striped Shirt sz S (similar)

Shorts: H&M Belted Trouser Shorts sz 2

Necklace: Temple St. Claire for Target (other TSC for Target)

Shoes: Target Tawny Wedges sz 5.5
Polish: Revlon Vixen (love love)

The F21 woven shirt is from this post. I put this in the washer & dryer and ... wowza, wish I took before photos. Size S was super duper loose on me before, and must've shrunk down at least 2 sizes.

Twitter friends may already know I'm in love with these "UPS brown" high-waisted shorts from H&M. My bf gave a rare thumbs-up and dubbed them my "boy scout shorts." They are a fitted, knit trouser material, and look crisp and tailored. Sz 2 fits snugly on me. They are a recent find and retail for $34.95. Style # 083070 from the "everyday" department.

I decided to keep these brown Tawny Wedges because they are fun and comfortable. However, readers beware...my qualms with the thin wedge heels have proven to be legitimate. Lilly - you poor thing.

BB Dakota Groton Tweed Skirt & 20% off Chanel Sale

I've gotten many questions regarding a skirt on my sidebar, so I apologize for this past-due review. Unfortunately, size 0 is sold out on most sites, but it could pop back in stock or even show up on a sample site (got mine from Gilt). My photog was out of commission today, so here are my first ever-attempts at self-photography. It's darn hard!

Top: Ann Taylor Factory Petal Shell in Winter White, sz XXSP

Skirt: BB Dakota "Groton" Tweed Skirt sz 0 (buy here)
Cardigan: Martin & Osa sz XS (similar here in XXS on sale)
Belt: AT Perfect Patent Belt sz S (buy here) (hole-puncher info here)

Style: The style of this skirt is meant to be high-waisted and short, with a slight tulip poof. This really isn't a skirt for professional wear due to the length - more fun and flirty. Nevertheless, I've worn it to work a few times already over opaque tights, which makes it look less inappropriate. I wish I could find a skirt like this with a classic pencil silhouette.

Fit: I got the size 0, and the waist fits me perfectly with no alterations. There is an inch of room on both sides of the hips, but due to the style I think it's passable. Length hits me at mid-thigh. Aubrey from ProudyPetite is slightly bigger than me, and reviewed this skirt here.

Measurements: size 0 is 12" across the waist, 17" across the widest part of the hips, and 16.5" long.

Quality / Value: The tweed material (or is this technically called boucle?) is nice and thick, but I'm bummed that this skirt is unlined. I'm not sure how the decision was made to not line an itchy skirt that retails for $90! I got it for $40 on Gilt plus shipping, and was too lazy to return it. The lowest price I've seen was $26.99 on Modcloth.

Verdict: Like the material, but don't like the silhouette or length. I already wore it a few times so I'm keeping. I'm not sure if I'd buy from BB Dakota anymore because the style and cut are truly that of a junior's clothing line - good for casual wear but not for work.

My perfect pumps arrived last week along with my Ann Taylor Factory petal shells. Twitter friends saw a preview, but here they are again. The petals are washed out in my lackluster self-pics, but in-person they are very pretty as expected. The shoes are also a nice, neutral rich brown - looks identical to their Cognac pair from 2009. Size 5 fits me perfectly.

Shoes: Ann Taylor Perfect Pumps in Saddle Brown, sz 5 (buy here)

I also wanted to share a promo that I came across on the Purse Forum. Bloomingdales usually offers a small discount off your entire purchase, on the first day you open their store credit card. Usually this discount is 10%, sometimes it's 15%, and twice a year - it is 20% off. It's rumored that from March 10th-13th, 2011 the 20% off will be happening. This is a rare, rare opportunity to get a discount on brand new Chanel.

The discount is taken off the back-end, which means it shows up on your credit card statement. At the register, however, you will be charged the full price. Your entire purchase has to be made on a Bloomingdales credit card to get the discount. Intrigued, I called around to do some research, and this is what I found out:

- 2011 retail prices: Rectangular Wallet on Chain - $1295 to $1575, Petite Shopping Tote - $1600, Small Classic Flap - $3200, Medium Classic Flap - $3400, Jumbo Classic Flap - $3700. Nauseating, yes I know.
- There are only three Bloomingdales that carry Chanel: South Coast Plaza in CA (714-824-4721), New York City (212-705-2856), and Chestnut Hill in MA (617-630-6723). They usually only have classics in black or beige, so no fun colors.
- They can ship to any state in the US. Some SA's told me it's a $25 fee, and some told me it's free.
- Tax will be charged based on the shipping address. I was told tax will be charged regardless of whether or not there is a Bloomingdales store in your state, which doesn't seem right to me.
- Usually they give new cardholders a $500 credit limit. Your SA can help you request a limit increase the day you open your account.
- On March 10-11th, cardholders get triple rewards (9% of your spending back in gift cards).

I personally prefer to save $ and buy pre-owned, but the prices of pre-owned classics these days are sometimes almost comparable to a new one with this discount. I know a few bloggers have been bitten by the Chanel bug, so hopefully this info is helpful for those considering a new investment piece.