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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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.