Casual in Asos Petite Lace Sweater + STS Blue Skinny Pants

Whenever I do something excessive, my cousin always calls me out (in a funny way that makes me laugh) and say "Ping, your _____ game is strong." When I saw her during Christmas dinner, she said to me, your blush game is strong. After looking at these pictures, I can say my bun game is definitely strong too! I normally don't tease my hair,  but decided to try it this time for a little more volume and might have over done it. It's pretty big, but hopefully not saucer status big!

Socialite Lace Dress (burgundy - on sale for $28 or black). Size XS (equivalent to a 00). 

I took these pictures a while ago and never got around to posting them and thought I'd share them with you guys since it's currently on sale for only $28! What an amazing deal for a fully lined dress. I've been loving the lace-up neckline on tops and dresses, but have found most v-necklines to be too low cut and revealing. The neckline of this dress is more modest and not so plunging like others I've seen. Most swing dresses fit huge, but this one is pretty fitted in the bust area and the length is also great for someone petite. I feel like it's almost too short and the hem hits about 4" above my knee. I could definitely flash someone if I bend over (which I won't do!). The sleeves are about an inch too long as well, but that's a very easy fix. 

I purchased these STS Blue skinny pants a few month ago and have been wearing them around the house because they're so comfortable. They feel more like leggings than pants because the material is thin and there's a lot of stretch to them. These are actually ankle length on the model, but they fit me like real pants since I have such short legs. Also, how pretty is this Asos sweater? The lace detail at the hem gives it that interesting flair. The fit is on the looser side and I love the longer length to pair with leggings or skinny jeans. It would also look super cute with white jeans and over-the-knee boots for a winter white outfit. Here are approximate measurements for each item: pants (size 00): inseam 26.5" (after wash), waist 28", rise 7" and hips 31" and sweater (00P): sleeves 20.5", busts 36.5" and length 27" (from center back to the bottom of the lace edge)

STS Blue Skinny Pants - on sale for $28! Blue version. 00 | Asos Sweater. 00P | Free People Cardigan. Similar | Louis Vuitton Speedy Bag (pre-owned) | Nude Wedge Heels. Similar | H&M Tassel Necklace. Similar

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Layering with BB Dakota Plaid Shirt Dress

I got so comfortable taking pictures in my living room for a long time and now taking pictures outside in public is definitely a big change. I was taking a lot of my pictures outside of my apartment and this couple walked by and was about to go into their house and they stopped and just watched (literally for 5 mins). I stared back and smiled at them to let them know that I noticed them staring and she walked over to me. I said, "Hi, can I help you with anything?" She asks me, "What's so special about this street? I see people taking pictures here all the time." I was so mortified because nobody takes pictures on our street besides me. I responded to her, "There's nothing special about this street, I just take pictures here because I live in this apartment and all those people you are referring to are probably just me".  The situation was all awkward! So now, I'm trying to diversify my photo shoot locations so I don't run into the same people who think I'm cray.

Approximate measurements for the BB Dakota dress in a size XS: sleeve length: 23", shoulder width: 14", length (taken from center back): 32", bust: 35",  hips: 40" 

Nordstrom is having their half yearly sale and I've been on the market for over-the-knee boots so I might pick up the Calvin Klein Over the Knee boots (has narrow calf circumference). I have the STS olive skinny ankle pants and they are currently on sale for $28 and I paid full price awhile ago so I don't think I can get a price adjustment (ugh!!). I bought the size 00 and the ankle length fits me like full length pants. I also have the Socialite burgundy lace shift dress in XS (on sale for $28) which fits like a 00 and the length is pretty short and great for petites (wouldn't recommend for anyone taller than 5'2). The Topshop leopard body-con dress that I reviewed is also on sale! 

Here are a few more items that peaked my interest: Lush fit and flare lace dress ($28), Lucy Paris lace sheath dress (reviews say it runs super small and I love the scallop edges), Treasure & Bond plaid tunic (comes in XXS) and Trouve drape top.

BB Dakota Plaid Shirt Dress - (currently 50% off!). Buy here or here too. Size XS. | Fate Suede Jacket. Size XS. Similar | Stuart Weitzman Boots. Similar | Black sweater.  Similar | Botkier Bag. Similar

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American Rag Faux-Shearling Cardigan (Petite Friendly + Currently On Sale)

My boyfriend and I spent a quiet Christmas Eve with dinner at Chaya Brasserie. It's one of my favorite restaurants and this place never disappoints. The service is excellent, the food is always tasty and the ambiance is not too stuffy for a nice restaurant. Christmas day is pretty casual with my family and we're super untraditional. Most people wake up early in the morning to open gifts, but we normally don't get together until five or six in the evening, have dinner and exchange gifts. This year my aunt and uncle served a variety of Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine including egg rolls, curry noodle soup, chow fun, wasabi chicken, my cousins made thai ice tea and sangria and I "baked" a pie (frozen from Safeway!). I brought the Claim Jumper Raspberry pie for Thanksgiving this year and it was such a hit, they wanted it again for Christmas. I love (like so love!) this pie myself and have made two between Thanksgiving and now for me and my bf (more like for me, lol). I have such a sweet tooth, I can eat that pie for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

I received the cardigan a couple of days ago and just couldn't wait to wear it! Even though it's called a cardigan, I would consider it a jacket since it the weight is pretty nice and heavy. It's so soft and cozy since it's partially lined with faux fur. I really like the American Rag brand from Macy's since a lot of their items come in size XXS and it has fit me really well in the past and this one is no exception either. The back is pretty narrow, the length is not too long and the sleeves and overall body are pretty fitted. The neutral color will be versatile enough to go well with any outfit and I can see myself reaching for this all the time. I bought this cardigan for full price (yes, I liked it that much!) since I knew it would fit and have been looking for a shearling jacket for the longest time. Luckily I was able to get a price adjustment when it went on sale. I just couldn't be happier with my purchase. 

Measurements: length: 21" (taken from center back), sleeves: 24", shoulder to shoulder: 13" across

Material Content: faux suede, polyester and acrylic

American Rag Cardigan. Size XXS | Articles of Society Sarah Jeans (in blue moon). Size 24 | Forever 21 Plaid Shirt. Size S | BP Trolley Bootie. Size 5 | Stitch Fix Studded Tote. (similar)

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Christmas Eve Dinner Outfit + Macy's Sale

My boyfriend and I are doing a nice date night for Christmas Eve since we haven't done that in a while and I'm spending Christmas day with my family at my uncle's restaurant. All mellow stuff and nothing too crazy! We're not too big on presents either and we just all get each other little stuff. I'm super sad and frustrated right now because I purchased a few items from J. Crew for my boyfriend and I realized that I should have received the package by now. I checked my tracking and it said it was delivered a couple of days ago. So obviously one of my neighbors took my package out of the millions of packages in the lobby. I left a note on every floor to return my package and hopefully it will get back to me tonight or else I'm going to have to scramble and find a replacement gift tomorrow.

This year, I asked my brother and cousins what they wanted for Christmas and the answers were quite shocking. My brother said he wanted a USB Cable for Apple Devices, my cousin wanted bralettes with padding, my other cousin wanted an external hard drive or a cardigan to wear with dresses and my brother told me that my other cousin wants a battery for his LG G3. LOL! What?! I'm glad I asked because I would have never guessed these things. For me, I always tell my family to not get me anything and I honestly mean it. I'm really hard to shop for and I have everything I need in my life besides a million dollars. Hahahaha!

This skirt and off-the-shoulder sweater are the rest of the items I kept from my Forever21 purchase. The off-the-shoulder sweater has a nice stretch and material, and much to my surprise, it's not like a flimsy knit shirt. My friend tried it on and was shocked that it was from Forever21. The top hugs the body nicely without being too tight and I actually don't have too many fitted tops (mostly flowy) so this is definitely a nice change (says my bf). This pleated skirt is made of a stretch knit, but the weight almost feel like a scuba material. What I love the most about the skirt are the side pockets at the hips! Anything with pockets gets bonus points. The waist of the skirt (size XS) measures at 25.75" so I did have to take it in by a couple of inches or else the skirt would sit all the down at my belly button.  

Forever 21 Pleated Skirt. Size XS | Forever 21 Off the Shoulder Sweater. XS | Kate Spade purse (similar) | Patent Leather Pointed Pumps (similar and on sale!) | Gorjana necklace - currently on sale

Macy's Promotion: Addition 15% or 20% off sale items (use promo code WRAPUP)

I ordered some of these items at full price last week and I called customer service and was able to get a price adjustment (without any hassle) which is really nice! Here's what I ordered so far and I'm tempted to get more. I've been wanting a shearling jacket forever and this one come in a size XXS. After the discount, the price comes out to be $47. I also picked up the cowl neck sweater, but that one is selling out quick in the smaller sizes. The funnel neck pull over is a close dupe to the cowl neck sweater and there are lots of color options and sizes available.  I couldn't resist getting another LBD and ordered the faux leather fit and flare dress (sold out). My anorak jacket (seen here) is also on sale and it's still available in XXS! If you like any of these items, I'd hurry because these items are definitely selling out quickly.

*Update: I just received my package and the shearling jacket and faux leather dress fits great, but the cowl neck sweater is huge. I'll post pictures later when I have a chance. 

Have a Merry Christmas everyone and Happy Shopping!!!

Bow Blouse, Plaid Cardigan + Wine Colored Pumps (Each Under $20)

I wore this outfit to the mall this weekend and lost track of time and before I knew it, I ran out of day light! I wasn't going to post these pictures because they came out blurry, but since I thought these items were such amazing finds, I don't want you guys to miss out on them. I haven't ordered from Forever21 in a while and took stab one late night and decided to order $150 worth of stuff. It's always fun to spend only $150 and get so many pieces (like Christmas on a budget for yourself). I was expecting a total fail, but I ended up keeping more than half the stuff which is really good for Forever21. What's even more great is that each item is under $20!

I'm so glad faux leather leggings are in style! I remember I got these from a Bebe warehouse sale a few years for only $2 and couldn't be more excited to wear them. At the time, these leggings were not so trendy and I remember people would give me weird looks every time I wore them. The bad part is that since I've had them for so long and wore them so much, they have definitely stretched out and I am on the hunt for new ones to replace these awesome $2 leggings. 

I already wore these pumps twice this week and have received numerous compliments. My usual size is a 5.5 and found these pumps to run big. If you're in between sizes, I'd order the next half size down. They come in 6 fun colors and they're a great way to add a pop of color to any outfit! The quality of the faux suede looks really expensive and you'd never guess these pumps are under $20. The bow blouse has a looser fit and the fabric is semi sheer (you can kind of see my leggings underneath). It doesn't bother me, but I thought I'd throw it out there in case you wanted to wear them for work. The plaid cardigan is a great piece for layering long sleeve blouses or knit tops underneath. I wear a lot of solid colored cardigans and thought the plaid print was a nice way to switch things up. The sleeves are about an 1" too long for me and the you can definitely size down if you want a closer fit to the body. 

Forever21 Plaid Cardigan. Size S | Faux Suede Pumps. Size 5.5. Comes in 6 colors | Bow Blouse (XS) | Bebe Leggings. Similar - on sale & runs small | Kate Spade Crossbody. Similar

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Reviews: BB Dakota + Topshop [Dresses and Rompers]

Since I wore a sequin dress to a holiday party, I wanted to switch it up for NYE and look for other fabrications that were less glitzy. While I was pulling stuff off the rack, including these couple of rompers, my boyfriend asked "it's so cold, who wears that during the winter"? I said "Me! All you need to do is add some tights and you'll be good!" DUH! ;)

 BB Dakota Dash Lace Romper . Size 0

I was pleasantly surprised at how well this romper fit! Most regular size rompers have a waist that sits low and a rise that is way too long causing sagging crotch, but not this one! If you look at how it fits on the model, it looks like her butt is eating the shorts. The overall fit on the romper is a relaxed one, not fitted or too loose, but the proportions are definitely right for a petite frame. The front and back are partially lined and a strapless bra is definitely needed. It also comes in a gorgeous emerald green color that is nice and festive for a holiday party. I'm partial towards black because of the versatility and can see myself wearing it for many occasions beyond NYE.

Topshop High Neck Romper. Size 2 US. Available in navy also.

I love this one! It's so pretty with the lace back and sexy with the plunging neckline. It has a semi-loose fit throughout and the proportions are better for someone that is an inch or two taller. I feel like if I pulled the shoulder up just a tad, it would make the seam sit at my natural waist. This piece is definitely memorable and a showstopper. On the flip side, people will remember it and you can't wear it over and over again without being noticed. I'd definitely buy it on a good discount, but it's definitely too expensive for a one time wear. 

  BB Dakota 'Renley' Lace Fit & Flare Dress. Size 0. Available in 14 colors.

This dress comes in every color of the rainbow! I swear! It has almost 70 pages of reviews too. I can definitely see the versatility of this dress, but it didn't wow me. It's a nice dress, but the fit was slightly too big. I would love for the bodice to be shorter and more fitted to cinch in at the waist and the skirt to be slightly shorter to show more leg. A few people commented that the fabric looks cheap and I can totally see where they're coming from. The print of the lace is pretty simple and on the larger side, making it seem more casual and less luxe. I wouldn't wear this dress for a special occasion, but thought it would make a nice day dress for spring or summer.

  Topshop Body-Con Lace Dress. Size 2 US. Currently on sale for $35!

This dress doesn't have too much give at all. I'd order in your regular size if you're interested. It's fully lined with a center back zipper. The bust was big (I wear a 32B at VS) and the neckline is really low cut. You can see my bra where it criss-crosses. I've also never been a big fan of empire waist dresses like this because it draw attention to my (non existent) bust. I wanted to try it to see if this piece might change my mind. Nope! I still feel the same way about it. So I'm definitely passing on this one. 

 Topshop Leopard Body-Con Dress. Size 2 US

I love a good animal print! I feel like animal prints are one of those things that you either love or hate. The dress is super cute even though it's really simple and I like that is has sleeves for the cooler temps. It's also short enough to pair with boots or with heels. My only issue with the dress is that it's a semi thin knit, but that could be remedied with some control top hosiery or spanx if you're uncomfortable and want something to hold you in a little more. It has no opening or closures so it's a slip on dress which can be problematic for those who wear a lot of makeup (like me). It is a tad pricey for a dress that is pretty much a long t-shirt and it's also unlined. I see the versatility and it's also really comfortable to wear since it's a stretchy knit. I'd definitely buy on a discount. 

Cozy in BP Sweater Dress + Colorblock Blanket Scarf

I recently purged 5 bags of clothes, hand bags and accessories from my closet. I had so much stuff I wasn't wearing and I needed to make more room for new stuff. My friend went through some of the bags and she said, "Ping, you're throwing away all these scarves?!? " I must admit, I love buying scarves since they're a cheap accessory to make an outfit pop, plus they keep me warm. I guess I have an addiction. I haven't bought much lately, but since I threw so many away, I'll definitely welcome more into my life. BTW, have you noticed my nails are painted? I had it done for a holiday party and I'm so not used to it at all. I haven't had my nails painted in years because the layer of paint makes my feel like my nails are suffocating. I know...it's weird!

I am loving this new sweater dress for the holidays and cooler weather! The color is vibrant (this is the most color I like to wear LOL) and the fabric is so soft and cozy. I can see this sweater dress styled so many ways! It would look super cute worn with leggings and a long boyfriend cardigan or with over-the-knee boots and a coat for a cozier outfit. The sweater dress has an easy and relaxed fit and I like that the fabric doesn't cling to my body. The sleeves are just a tad long, but not enough to where I have to cuff them. I'm wearing a size XS and I'd say it runs pretty true to size, but if you'd like a closer fit to the body definitely try sizing down a size. Also, how cute is this blanket scarf?!? I don't have one so I'm pretty excited to incorporate this into my wardrobe and pairing it with other items. 

BP Sweater Dress. XS | BP Colorblock Blanket Scarf | Blank NYC Jacket. XS | Stitch Fix Elle Clutch (similar) + Anne Necklace (similar) | Halogen Booties. Similar (pricey but cute!)  

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I was browsing the Nordstrom sale section and found some pretty cute items worth checking out:
Jackets/ Coats: Kut from the Kloth Drape Faux Leather Jacket (I tried this and thought this was super cute! Great for longer arms though and it's under $60), T Tahari Wrap Coat ("The Olivia Pope Coat" + lots of color available), DKNY Faux Fur Trim Anorak Jacket (Comes in petite sizes. Looks super cozy and with great reviews), Guess Double Breasted Boucle Jacket (The blush color is so dreamy! Too bad the XSP is sold out), Thread & Supply Puffer Vest (only $35)
Dresses/Tops: Lush Jacquard Skate dress (under $30), Off the Shoulder Floral Dress (I'm tempted to get this), Eliza J Fit + Flare Sweater Dress (comes in petite), Plaid Tunic Shirt Dress, Vince Camuto Metallic Jacquard Dress (great for NYE), 1.State Peplum Lace Tank (NYE), Embellished V-neck Tank (NYE)
Shoes: Vince Camuto 'Kolton' Boot (under $150), Vince Camuto Peep Toe Bootie, Ivanka Trump Pumps (great reviews + lots of color options)

Holiday Sequins + Faux Fur

I ended up not finding the perfect holiday party dress as I hoped, but found this great ModCloth Bona Fide Beauty Coat (currently on sale) instead. I've always wanted a faux fur coat to wear with cocktail dresses, but one that is not over the top and cray looking. Every time I tried on a faux fur coat, my boyfriend would comment that I looked like a baby sasquatch (aka bigfoot), but this one finally has his approval. I love that the length is not super long where it's overwhelming on a petite frame and the fabric isn't super thick where I like a cotton ball. The faux fur is ultra soft and cozy and it feels so luxurious. I can't wait to style this coat with jeans and a cute embellished blouse for a dinner look.

ModCloth Bona Fide Beauty Coat. Size XS | Kate Spade purse. Similar | Nude Strappy heels. Similar comes in lots of color & under $60 | MAC Ladybug lipstick

This Zara sequin dress was gifted to me by my sweet friend Elle from Fast Food and Fast Fashion a couple of years ago and I never found the occasion to wear it until now. It's a lifesaver since I didn't find the perfect dress that I was hoping for. Jean also has this dress, see how she styled it. Looks like we both had a red clutch in mind for a pop of color!

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Old Favorites

I normally bust out my J. Crew Lady Day coat for the winter season, but the weather has been so chilly lately that it I broke it out earlier than expected. My boyfriend went home to Missouri for Thanksgiving and he said the weather was much warmer compared to SF (which is rare!). I normally don't get sick and haven't in years, but it's so cold that I had the flu for two weeks recently. It wasn't too bad since I didn't have to see anyone with my constant sneezing and sniffling!

I have the version lined with thinsulate and it's the right amount of warmth for 50 degree weather. I love the classic cut of this coat which makes it really versatile to dress up for work with dresses, skirts or trouser pants or worn casually with jeans on the weekends. I'm wearing a 00P and the size is perfect with a sweater underneath. The sleeve length is a tad short, but not enough that it's noticeable. J. Crew came out with a size 000P and I'm curious if anyone has tried it and how much smaller it fits. There's also an array of fun colors I'm loving! A lot of retailers make most of their coats in neutrals and it's unexpected to see an array of brighter and darker options. Current promo: 25% off $100+ or 30% off $150+ with code GIVEMORE. If you're interested in getting the coat, with the discount, the price comes out to be around $255 (before tax).

J. Crew Petite Double Cloth Lady Day Coat with Thinsulate. 00P. 

BP. Trolley Ankle Bootie. I've had these booties for a few years and they've always been my go to. I probably wear these at least a couple of times a week. The cost is under $100, but for shoes that are so comfortable and versatile, it's definitely worth every penny. I usually wear a size 5.5, but I purchased the size 5 and they are still pretty roomy for me. Maybe it's because I have the older version and the newer colors run smaller, but the site does advise to order a 1/2 size up. If I didn't have a budget, I'd definitely get these in the grey and black color as well. 

J. Crew Coat. 00P | Stitch Fix Aleia Sweater. XS. Similar | Levi Jeans. Similar | BP Trolley Bootie | LV Speedy (pre-owned) | H&M Mustard Scarf. Similar (on sale!)

Comfy Pants

I bought these Loft Petite Sateen Five Pocket Leggings a while ago on a really good discount and I wish that I'd have bought another pair in the other colors available. I love comfy clothes since I work from home and these pants are ultra soft and feel like stretchy yoga pants. I wear them lounging around the apartment and this outfit was something I threw on to go grab lunch.

Loft is currently running a promo for 40% off sale items (note some are final sale). Here are some items that still have XXSP or 00P available. Everything is $20-80 after discount! Check these out: Petite Modern Skinny Corduroy Pants, Petite Ribbed Shirttail Sweater (love the burgundy color), Petite Stripe Side Shirred Dress, Petite Fanfare Shirt Dress, Petite Relaxed Cardigan, Petite Gingham Henley, Petite Parka.

In terms of fit, these run pretty true to size (I'm wearing 24P). I wore these pants a few times without washing and I noticed the knee area and the waist starting to sag a bit. I think a good wash and dry will snap them back into shape. On a side note, I feel like most jackets I have bought lately have super thick shoulders pads. After looking at these pictures, I feel like MJ from Thriller! I'm definitely going remove the pads pronto before my next wear.

Loft Sateen Leggings. 24P | Fate Jacket. XS. Similar here & here | Look by M scarf. Similar | Kate Spade Crossbody. Similar | Louise et Cie Booties. Similar

Photo credit: Jen from Life Unrefined