2017-01-09

Welcome to the new and improved Hi Sugarplum! It’s been way too long since the site got a facelift, and even longer since it was organized…so I couldn’t be happier to finally have it completely overhauled and updated! My main goal was to make it easier for you to find content and inspiration, for both desktop and mobile devices, so you’ll find an expanded navigation bar, chock full of drop-down categories that cover just about every topic on the blog.

You can also easily access main categories simply by clicking the images below the header, specifically the #SUGARPLUMSTYLE button, that allows you to directly shop my Instagram, with no signups necessary!

Many of you have been kind enough to let me know you often have trouble receiving my posts via email, so this change will hopefully solve those issues, as I’ve moved to a new platform and server. We’re also adding a weekly newsletter, so make sure you’re signed up with your email (find that under my profile picture)! Virtually every nook and cranny of the site has been updated, so feel free to poke around and stay awhile. Things may look a little different, but the content and voice will remain the same…it’s still just me and you! #friendsforever

I’m so excited to kick off the New Year with a new site, and I couldn’t think of a better first post than everyone’s favorite, Dressing Room Diaries, starring my darling Mama Sugarplum! If you’re new around here, Dressing Room Diaries is where I hunt down some of the cutest new arrivals from my favorite retailers, and review them for you.

The shots aren’t good, the lighting is bad (especially now with the time change!), 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. Mom and I wear the same size, but it’s still fun to see how she translates the outfits for her age and petite frame.



Fit Note: I’m 5’4″-ish, 120 pounds-ish, with a slight pear shape. Mama Sugarplum is 5’1″, with an hourglass figure. Our usual size is XS/0.

Can you tell we’re happy about spending the day together?! We started in the scarves department, and Mama SP went straight for the pink scarf (see where I get it!?), and I fell for this fringed poncho. I loved the color block design, and the actual armholes! She said the scarf was super soft and easy to drape (and half-off!).



On Me: Fringed Poncho (similar) | Long Tee | Pendant | Distressed Jeans | Wedge Booties

On Mama SP: Striped Scarf | Pullover Sweater | Puffer Vest | Favorite Bootcut Jeans | Booties

I’ve had Christmas gift cards burning a hole in my pocket, and I’ve got my sights set on new boots! I’m on the hunt for a pair of cognac booties, and tall black boots, possibly over-the-knee. I tried on a ton, and this pair was hands-down my fave style. The heel height is just right, and the little v-shape on the front helps elongate the leg.

Fit Tip: The boots run true to size, and are high enough to allow an ankle sock.

Long Cardigan | Long Tee | Pendant | Distressed Jeans | Booties

As much as I loved the dark taupe, I don’t need another pair that color…but I love the boots so much I tried them in gray. #swoon Gray boots are actually just as versatile as taupe, if not more so! Think about it…they go with everything that you’d pair with taupe or black! These beauties came home with me.

Long Cardigan | Long Tee | Pendant | Distressed Jeans | Booties

Many of you have been asking my thoughts on over-the-knee boots, so I’ve ordered a bajillion pairs to try out. What I’ve discovered so far (and I’ll do a full post on them if I find a pair I love), is the form-fitting style suits my frame and leg size best. Slouchy styles just add bulk to my legs. #nobueno This pair actually fit like a glove, and thanks to the drawstring, they stayed put. I’m a little on the fence about the gold heel, but I also think if you’re wearing over-the-knee boots, you’re looking to make a statement…so why not really make it!? Plus, the price is good on these.

Fit Tip: I found these true to size, and the material had enough give to accommodate for thicker calves.

Long Cardigan | Long Tee | Pendant | Distressed Jeans | Over-the-Knee Tie Boots

We’re both fans of the super-soft kitten cardis, and got a little giddy to see the new striped versions. And fyi, I’ve washed and dried mine for years, and never had any problems.

Fit Tip: They run true, and we’re both wearing XS (regular).

Striped Button Cardi | Gray Booties | Wedge Booties

I wear mine open too, so we wanted to show you that look. My tee is great for leggings because of the extra length. (Check out Mama SP giving the side-eye to our photobomber!!)

Oh, and remember when I had a bra intervention on my mom? Well, she turned the tables and had an undies intervention on me this time! Obviously I won’t be showing you, but mine were a sad excuse. My friend, Sheaffer, swears by these, so I followed her advice, and holy moly, it’s amazing the difference some well-fitting and comfy undies can make for a girl!

Striped Button Cardi | Long Tee | Gray Booties | Wedge Booties

This peacoat has been a favorite of ours for years, and mom decided to add a black one to her collection. I love the high neck when it’s buttoned.
Fit Tip: The coat runs really small…we both sized up two. She’s wearing a medium.

Peacoat | Favorite Bootcut Jeans | Booties

This top is fuzzy soft, with ribbed arms and a longer back hem. The neck is a little wide and the fabric pretty lightweight, but such a cozy shirt to throw on with jeans or loungewear.

Fit Tip: It’s true to size (we’re both wearing XS), but I’d size up if you want to wear it with leggings.

Shirt | Wedge Booties | Taupe Cutout Booties

This fun top is actually sweatshirt material, but chic like a moto jacket. It has a fun asymmetrical zipper and pockets.

Fit Tip: It runs a little small, so we both sized up in the pic. Mom is wearing SP, and I’m wearing Regular .

Sweatshirt Moto Jacket | Wedge Booties | Taupe Cutout Booties

I mentioned this ruffle top a few weeks back, and it’s one of my favorite purchases lately. It’s easily dressed up with pants or a skirt, and looks cute with jeans. It’s especially cute layered under a puffer vest because the ruffles on the shoulder peek out!

Fit Tip: The model online shows it as a slouchy fit, but I much prefer sizing down for a closer fit. We’re both wearing XXS.

Ruffle Sweater | Wedge Booties | Taupe Cutout Booties

If you follow me on Instagram, then you’re no stranger to this top since it wear it several times a week and have it in two colors. It’s just so soft and fuzzy, so I wear it with both my lounge pants, and jeans! The v-neck dips a little low, but not enough to exposure your bra. Sometimes I wear it with this bralette for a peek of lace.

Fit Tip: It runs a little big, so size down if you prefer a closer fit. We’re both wearing XXS.

Favorite V-Neck Sweater | Wedge Booties | Taupe Cutout Booties

Of course I had to see how my new gray booties looked with black…darling, just as expected! I’ve had these jeans for a few years, and they are favorites of both Mama SP and myself. They are a dark rinse with no distressing, super stretchy, and keep their shape. And have a nice mid-rise.

Fit Tip: Jeans are true.

Mockneck Sweater | Dark Jeans | Gray Booties

How could I resist navy and pink fair isle with a ribbed turtleneck?! #Icouldnt Normally I’d pair taupe booties with this outfit, but the gray is even cuter! I think these babies will be getting a lot of wear!

Fit Tip: Sweater runs true, and I’m wearing an XS. Actually, I usually size up one for wool sweaters, which wasn’t necessary for this one, so maybe it runs a tad big.

Fair Isle Sweater | Dark Jeans | Gray Booties

I’ve had a black leather moto jacket for years, and it’s one of those pieces that makes every outfit cooler. I love the slim silhouette of this one, and the camel color is gorgeous.

Fit Tip: It runs small…I’m wearing an XS and it’s too tight in the arms. I ordered a small because I think I need it for myself!

Faux-Leather Moto Jacket | Favorite White Tee | Dark Jeans | Gray Booties

Back to the over-the-knee boot hunt…these are a bit slouchy, but the height is good for us shorter girls. They were cute with jeans, but not my favorite with dresses. And I didn’t love how the back of the knee looked on me. I think this style is best-suited for tall or long-legged girls. As for the dress, I liked the dolman sleeve and cowlneck, but it’s a little shapeless for my taste.

Fit Tip: I’m actually wearing a small in the dress, and there was plenty of extra room, so maybe sticking with my usual size would make it better.

Dolman Cowlneck Dress | Suede Boots

These boots have a more streamlined fit, and stretch to accommodate different leg sizes. There’s no drawstring at the top though, so they do slide down a little. For the price, they are a solid choice, and the online reviews are great. The dress is a thick, stretchy sweater material, and would be super cute with tights and booties.

Fit Tip: Boots run true, and I sized up one in the dress.

Over-the-Knee Stretch Boots | Sweater Dress

The key to wearing over-the-knee boots with dresses, is to have several inches of skin show between the boot and dress. Which is tricky for petite gals. This dress would be too short by itself, but perfect for tall boots or tights and booties. It’s a thick knit, with a cute a-line shape. And pockets. Don’t forget the pockets.

Fit Tip: The dress is true to size.

Funnel Neck Dress (on sale!) | Over-the-Knee Stretch Boots

And finally, I ordered several pairs of cognac boots…these are my favorites so far (more on order!), especially with the crazy sale price! The shirt is cotton, but silky soft with a stretchy cowlneck and longer back. The online model wears it off-the-shoulder, but I’m going to pass on that for Winter.

Fit Tip: The top is true, and I’m wearing an XS. The boots run small, and I’d recommend sizing up half.

Convertible Fleece Top | Dark Jeans | Boots

Okay, I think that’s enough for today! I do hope you found this post helpful, and maybe discovered some new goodies. I know Mama Sugarplum and I had a great time…but being with her is always fun! 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 tell me, what do you think about my new site?! As with all things techy, there may be a few quirks and bugs, so let me know if you see anything wonky!

*All my love and adoration goes to Stephanie Drenka, who held my hand, answered my infinite number of asinine questions, and worked her genius smart-girl magic to make this new site happen. She made the transition completely seamless and painless, and I couldn’t have done it without her.

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