Cheers to almost-Friday, friends! I'm absolutely blown away by your thoughtful comments on yesterday's Kitchen post!! I was hoping for a few 'yes, go for it' or 'heck no, you've lost your mind's...but you guys took it 10 steps further and suggested some really great ideas.
Adding more warm wood tones is definitely on the agenda...starting with bar stools and counter-top accessories. I loved your ideas of ceiling beams or open shelves, but I don't know that our Kitchen has the space for either.
And funny enough, we considered painting the vent hood dark...and even did photoshop renderings in this post. What do you think? I still really love the idea of all tile on the back wall, but we'll take it in baby steps. Thank you so much for taking the time to weigh in!! You know I'll keep you in the loop with any changes.
Today it's time for the next installment of Dressing Room Diaries, where I hunt down some of the cutest new arrivals from my favorite retailers, and review them for you. It's been awhile since my last one, so this is a doozy! And be sure to check the end of the post for discounts on many of these items!
You know the drill...the shots aren't good, the lighting is bad, my hair is usually past it's expiration, and many of the items aren't a good fit for me...but it's real life, real girl, real clothes...and hopefully helpful for you to see them this way, instead of perfectly styled on a model.
Sidenote: Everything fits true-to-size unless I indicate otherwise. And fyi, I'm 5'4"-ish, 120 pounds-ish, with a slight pear shape. My usual size is an XS/0.
I really wanted to love this layered top, and even though it's intended to be a relaxed fit, it overwhelmed my frame a bit. It's by one of my favorite brands for cozy wear, and the crisp cotton layer is a fun touch. Maybe cuffing the sleeves a few times would have helped.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing an XS, so size down one...even if you prefer loose fit.
Layered Look Top (on sale!) | Distressed Jeans
Same was true for this top....I adored it, but the armholes were just too big. It'd be so cute tucked in a pencil skirt or slacks, or worn casually with jeans and boots, and comes in three great pattern combos.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing an XS. It's also fairly long.
Tie-Neck Sleeveless Top | Distressed Jeans
I like to try new and different styles out for you guys, so I gave this cold-shoulder top a whirl, and was surprised by how much I liked it. It's as soft and easy to wear as a basic tee, but with fun details to make it different.
Fit Tip: It runs big and is full through the body...I'm wearing an XS.
Cold Shoulder Top | Distressed Jeans | Peep Toe Booties
Okay, plaid shirts are certainly in my comfort zone...and this one has a silky-cotton feel, with high-low hem. It comes in four great colors, and can be worn as a tunic with leggings.
Fit Tip: Size down to wear with jeans, or stick with your regular size for legging-appropriate length. I'm wearing an XXS, and the back is still below my bum.
Plaid Tunic Shirt (on sale!) | Distressed Jeans | Peep Toe Booties
Shirt dresses are pretty much universally flattering, especially with a cinchable waist. This utility dress is a nice sturdy material, but still drapes well. And while I love the look of peep toe booties, these come up a little too high on the ankle for me. Boots should hit at either the small part of your ankle, or just below or above the knee. I think these particular booties are best for small calves or taller girls.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing a reg XS in the dress, but petite is available if you prefer shorter length.
Utility Shirtdress | Peep Toe Booties
Another fun twist on the tee...this one is a pullover, but has a tucked look. It's silky soft, and surprisingly really cute!
Fit Tip: It runs a tad big if you look at how it fits me, versus the online model. But not enough to size down...I think it's just a better fit for girls with boobs.
Cross-Front Tee (only $29!) | Distressed Jeans
Leather moto jackets are a darling addition to so many outfits, but feminine ones are hard to come by...especially affordable ones that look cute worn open or closed. I love the fit of this one, and would throw it on with everything from jeans to skirts.
Fit Tip: It's true to size, and I'm wearing an XS.
Faux Leather Jacket | Knit High-Low Top | Distressed Jeans
The deep coral of this faux-wrap romper makes it a great transition piece for Fall...especially for those of us who experience Summer temps well into Fall months. It'd be cute with wedges now, or a military jacket and ankle booties later.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing an XS, which fit well everywhere, but was a little short in the bum.
Flutter Sleeve Wrap Romper
This halter top is subtly sexy for a night out, but still grown-up appropriate with a flattering fit and feminine neckline.
Fit Tip: The XS was pulling at the chest a little on me, so if you have boobs, I'd recommend sizing up.
Ruffle High-Neck Halter Tank | Distressed Jeans | Peep Toe Booties
These type of pullover tops are the easiest Fall outfit when paired with jeans and boots, and later, a scarf. The material is a thick stretchy knit, and has a fun high-low hem.
Fit Tip: I'd prefer a slouchier fit for this style top, therefore I'd recommend sizing up one.
Knit High-Low Top | Distressed Jeans | Peep Toe Booties
You know a top is good when you seriously consider buying it in both colors. I went back-and-forth, but ultimately took the ivory home...it will be so cute paired with both dark denim, and white jeans. The sleeveless fit makes it great for transitional weather, but you could easily carry it through Winter by adding a jacket. Bonus: it's half off!
Fit Tip: The XS was perfectly relaxed, but consider sizing down if you like this style of sweater extra-fitted.
Sleeveless Sweater | Dark Jeans | Favorite Sneakers | Tassel Earrings
Darling puppy on a pink sweater? It doesn't get any cuter! I have the navy version of this sweater from several years ago, and still get asked about it every time I wear it (see it here). I love it layered over a chambray, gingham, or plaid shirt, too. And the fit of these jeans is pretty much perfection! I love that you can order your exact waist and inseam size, so I get the best ankle length.
Fit Tip: I'm wear an XS in the sweater, and 26x28 in the jeans.
Dog Sweater (on sale!) | Favorite Sneakers | Tassel Earrings
Striped long sleeve tees are wardrobe staples...perfect paired with jeans and skirts, or layered under a jacket. I've slowly amassed almost every color in the rainbow, and I'm thrilled to finally add pink to the mix!
Fit Tip: I sized up to a small for a little more arm room, and to withstand the dryer.
Boatneck Artist Tee (only $17!) | Favorite Sneakers
This dress made me wish I still worked in a traditional office everyday. Every thing about it is perfect...the color, feminine flutter sleeve, flattering a-line shape, and modest length. Oh, and pockets! #swoon
Fit Tip: I'm wearing a reg 0, but would prefer it a tad more fitted through the waist. It's available in petites, but I'm usually just a tad too tall and/or long-torsoed for petite dresses or rompers.
Flutter Sleeve Dress | Tassel Bracelet Set | Watch | Wedges
This poncho is so thick and heavy I almost had a heatstroke trying it on...but it's too-cute-for-words, right!? I love that the sides tie, so you have the security of a sleeve (I'm not a fan of ponchos that fit like a bib), and I love nothing more than a chunky turtleneck in Winter.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing the XS/S in navy.
Side Tie Poncho | Ring | Tassel Bracelet Set | Watch | Wedges
Ruffles and flutter sleeves look to be everywhere this season, and I'm thrilled with the uber-feminine details. This darling top combined it with little ruffle peplum, for a doubled-dose of girly...so cute paired with slacks, a pencil skirt, or distressed jeans.
Flutter Sleeve Peplum Top | Tassel Bracelet Set | Watch | Wedges
This is actually what I wore to the mall that day...so clearly I'm on board with the girly top paired with rugged jeans.
Floral Blouse | Necklace | Tote | Tassel Bracelet Set | Watch | Wedges
I was obsessed with sweaters in this soft pink hue last year, but they sold out before I could get my hands on one. Not this year though!! The soft peony is on it's way to me now, thanks to a good sale! I love the unexpected soft color in the colder months.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing a S on the left, and XS on the right...I went with XS. It's fitted, but still enough room to layer over a shirt.
Pink Sweater (on sale with code) | Striped Sweater | Pink Trousers | Jeans | Tassel Earrings
Why yes, more ruffles and peplum...but how can a person be expected to resist when it's paired with a sporty stripe?! It's a good thing this shirt only comes in one color. #broke (See how I've already worn it here.)
Fit Tip: It's true to size, I'm wearing an XS.
Flutter Sleeve Peplum Top (on sale with code) | Jeans | Tassel Earrings
This leopard skirt was a tad big in the waist, but the tie allowed me to get a better fit. It's a thick silky material, but still had some give to it. (See how I style my leopard skirt here.)
Fit Tip: The skirt and chambray shirt are true to size, I'm wearing a 0 and XS. But the ruffle blouse runs big, so I'd size down one. I'm wearing a 0, but it's too low in both the chest and armholes.
Silk Blouse | Chambray Shirt | Leopard Skirt (on sale with code)
I was most-excited to try these two tops, but both felt a little clown-like on me. I think they'd be darling on a taller girl. #luckyducks
Fit Tip: Both true to size, but a little boxy through the body.
Bell Sleeve Top | Striped Ruffle Top
If you follow me on Instagram, then you know I already own this tee....since I've worn it almost exclusively for weeks already! But I wanted to try the next size up in-store, to be sure I had the right fit.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing a S in the pics, but I went with the XS (see that here).
Ruffle Sleeve Tee (on sale with code)
I already have this dress in green (see it here), but had to have the cobalt now that's it's on super sale. It's so chic as a swimsuit coverup, or paired with wedges or sneakers.
Fit Tip: I sized up to a S for a more relaxed, less body-con, fit.
Racerback Tank Dress (on sale with code) | Favorite Sneakers | Tassel Earrings
I wanted to love this dress so badly...and while I liked the fit, the pattern overwhelmed my frame a bit.
Off-the-Shoulder Dress
This top had huge potential on the hanger, but I felt like I was working the Clinique counter once I got it on. I think it'd be incredibly chic on a tall girl, when paired with ankle jeans and flats.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing a 0.
Tunic | Distressed Jeans | Favorite Sneakers
This darling dress is a nice sturdy material, but still drapes well. It's different than the usual off-the-shoulder dresses, in that it has a little more ruffle to the trim and arms...giving it an elevated look. And hello, pockets.
Fit Tip: It's roomy...I'm wearing an XS.
Off-the-Shoulder Dress
I was drawn to the fit and shape of this dress (and sale price!), but was surprised by how much I liked the orange, too. It's a flattering fit, and easily dresses up or down.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing a 0.
Halter Dress (on sale!)
When you really want to wear just pajamas, but you need to actually be dressed...this is your dress! Insanely soft and stretchy, but thick enough to not show bumps and lumps.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing an XS.
T-Shirt Dress (on sale for $31 with code) | Favorite Sneakers | Tassel Earrings
This plaid shirtdress is a soft flannel, with adjustable cinch waist...so basically super comfortable, yet totally pulled together.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing reg XS, but it's available in both Tall and Petite.
Plaid Shirtdress (on sale!) | Favorite Sneakers | Tassel Earrings
This blouse is wildly popular, and for good reason...it's a great price (it's actually on sale for $25 right now!) and comes in tons of colors...plus it's the right amount of 'dressed up' to elevate your jeans outfits. It's a bit low-cut for my comfort level, so I'd layer a cami, but it should be fine without for those of you with boobs. It comes in this longer tunic version too, perfect for leggings.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing an XS, so I'd definitely recommend sizing down one.
V-Neck Crepe Blouse (on sale for $25) | Jeans
I never met a gingham I didn't need love...and this one has a fun texture and cute little french cuffs. The smaller collar makes it a little more delicate, too.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing a 6, but would prefer the fit of a 4 (European sizing).
Gingham French Cuff Shirt | Distressed Jeans
Easiest outfit for night's out...throw on wedges or booties, add some bling and a clutch, and BAM, mama got a babysitter! Plus it's comfy with just enough stretch, but doesn't cling to the stuff you don't want clung to.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing an XS, but size down for a body-con fit, or size up if you prefer oversized, the fitted sleeves will still give it shape.
Dolman Sleeve Shirtdress
Another fun twist-front shirt, this one a little dressier, and comes in great Fall colors.
Fit Tip: It runs large, I'm wearing an XS and it's too low in the front without a cami.
Twist-Front Woven Shirt | Jeans
I feel like Oprah right now because I want to yell, 'IT'S ALMOST SCARF SEASON!!!!' But really, aren't scarves pretty much the best thing about Fall? This plaid has great colors and pairs beautifully with both solids and stripes.
Plaid Blanket Scarf | Distressed Jeans | V-Neck Crepe Blouse | Striped Tee
This dress isn't one I'd typically try for myself, but thanks to this series and trying new things out for you guys, I loved it! The pattern is small, so it doesn't overwhelm my frame, but not so small that it's sweet. It's cute now with booties, or later with tights.
Fit Tip: I sized up for a more relaxed a-line fit, and am wearing a S.
Floral Mock Shift Dress
Ask me how many times I chanted, 'I do not need this dress. I do not need this dress.' while in the dressing room. #probably20 But man do I want this dress! Please someone get married or throw a fabulous party so I can have an excuse to buy and wear it!!
Fit Tip: I'm wearing a reg 0, but it also comes in petite if you prefer shorter length.
Tiered Chiffon Swing Dress
I was walking out of the store when I spotted this perfect military jacket. #myweakness This one fits like a shirt, but looks like a jacket. I love the length and shoulder flaps, too.
Fit Tip: Runs really big, I'm wearing an XXS.
Military Jacket | Striped Skirt | Chambray Shirt | Favorite Sneakers | Tassel Earrings
I shared this plaid top in my last Five Under $50, so I figured I'd show you the fit! It's soft and a little flannely (I know that's not a word, but you know what I'm talking about!), and has a feminine fit. Sometimes plaid shirts can go a little lumberjack. I've been looking for some light wash jeans, but these were a little too stiff.
Fit Tip: Shirt runs small, I sized up to a S and it's still fitted.
Plaid Flannel Shirt | Lightwashed Distressed Jeans
I've had a military vest for years, but have yet to find another worth sharing...until now. This one has just enough rugged touches, but the drawstring waist gives you some shape.
Fit Tip: Runs really big, I'm wearing an XXS petite.
Utility Jacket | Plaid Flannel Shirt | Lightwashed Distressed Jeans
Love the relaxed fit of this striped tee, and the soft, lightweight cotton. It's also long enough to wear with leggings if you throw a long cardigan over it.
Fit Tip: I'm wearing an XS.
Striped Tee | Distressed Jeans | Booties
Whenever I say 'pair it with a long cardigan' this coming season, assume I mean this hooded one. It's that good!
Fit Tip: It runs large, I'm wearing an XXS.
Hooded Cardigan (on sale!) | Striped Tee | Distressed Jeans | Booties
I hope you found this post helpful, and maybe discovered some new goodies. I certainly missed Mama Sugarplum shopping with me, but hopefully I can drag her along on the next one!
What's your favorite from this round of Dressing Room Diaries? You may want to check out the previous installment because many of the items featured are on sale, and check the codes below for additional percentage off! Happy long weekend, lovebugs!
{Big Holiday Sales}
(These are as of Wednesday night, so check each site's home pages for updates throughout the holiday weekend!)
Nordstrom // Clearance sale starts now...including this popular scalloped dress!
Loft // Extra 40% off sale
GAP // 35% off with code HAPPY
Old Navy // 30% off with code ENJOY
J.Crew // Up to 30% off with code SHOPMORE
J.Crew Factory // 50% off everything + extra 50% off clearance
Anthropologie // Extra 25% off sale
Sole Society // Up to 60% off tons of styles
Pottery Barn // Buy More, Save More Event
{Shop My Dressing Room Favorites}
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