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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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

Anthropologie Petites: Holiday Dress Reviews

I've been on a hunt for a special dress for my work's holiday party and for my best friend's civil ceremony that is coming up in a couple of weeks. I went shopping over the weekend and there were so many sales. I have a hard time focusing and decided to go to Anthropologie because I love that  there is designated section for petites and I know where to look without feeling overwhelmed.

Minette Dress. 00P.

I fell in love with this dress the moment I saw it. The vibrant red color is perfect for the holidays and off the shoulder look gives it that fun and flirty vibe. I have broad shoulders and normally avoid the "off the shoulder" cut, but to my surprise, I thought this was pretty flattering. I liked the fitted bodice that shows off the waist and the length of the skirt is short enough (but not too short) so that it's appropriate for a work party. I have a long torso for a petite and the waist seam sat above my natural waist, therefore making the flare of the skirt start a little too high and knocking everything out of proportion. The dress is fully lined, with a side zipper opening and the back is smocked (stretchy) which accommodates a bigger bust or wide back. Due the high waist, I sadly had to pass. 

Cross Front Sheath Dress. 00P.

I have a lot of black in my closet, but its always hard to resist a LBD. It's a color that I know I can always wear and it's versatile enough for many occasions. The little things that make this dress unique are the cross front neckline with the waist band and side slant pockets. The details give it that whimsical factor and it's fun enough to wear outside of a business casual setting. Unfortunately this dress ran a size too big for me. The bust, waist and hips area were pretty roomy. If you're interested in this dress, I'd definitely size down from your normal size. 

Lace Pencil Garden Dress. Size 00P.

The lace fabric of this dress is absolutely so gorgeous and I love the colors as well. I like the idea of this dress, but the fit was a bit off for me. The hips ran really big and the waist could be more fitted as well. I also prefer the skirt length to be a couple of inches shorter, the neckline to be more open (to elongate my torso) and overall dress to be fitted so I don't look like a tube. Does that make sense? This dress would work for someone taller and I'd definitely try getting a size smaller size for a more body con look. 

Piper Dress. XXSP.

This is not a holiday party dress, but I'm a sucker for dresses with sleeves that I can wear with boots. For a casual dress, I was pleasantly surprised that it's nicely lined. The fabric is pretty thick so it'd be great for the cooler weather with tights. I have a long torso so I appreciate that the dress had no waist seam. It does have a relaxed fit and kind of hangs on your body so it's really comfortable. I'd definitely purchase on a discount. Right now, it's too expensive of a dress to wear casually around the house or to run errands in. 

Windowpane Car Coat. Size 0P.

As someone who sews, I'm always impressed when all the lines match up! I know it's especially hard when you're going into mass production and how precise you need to be when cutting a bulk of fabric at once. Even though it is oversized, I totally love this coat! It's super cute and I know it will go with so many items in my closet like dresses and casual jean outfits. The original price is a tad spendy for me, but hopefully it goes on sale for me to snatch up! 

Getting Back Into the Routine

Hi Everyone! I know it's been such a long while since I've posted! I really have no good reason besides being unmotivated to blog. Blogging is like going to the gym, once you start going and get into a routine, then it's really not a problem. It's the initial push to get yourself to start doing it. Speaking of the gym, I signed up a few months ago and started running a couple of miles 2-3 times a week during my lunch break. I should run more and do strength training to make an impact, but at the moment I think a light work out will do the trick in helping me mentally feel healthier. I tried running 3 miles, but that seriously tires me out for the rest of the day and I just want to take a nap afterwards. I know a lot of people feel more energized after working out, but it does the opposite for me. Like the gym, hopefully I can get myself to start a routine and blog more consistently. I've met so many wonderful people and built so many great friendships on this platform, I'd love to continue doing the same and connect with more awesome bloggers and readers. 

Here's an outfit that has been on repeat! If you hung out with me recently, you've probably seen me in this outfit. I love shift style dresses since it's so easy to wear and I can throw it on without having to think. It is a looser fit and has gathers around the hip area which give it more volume and movement. This one gets bonus points since it has sleeves (which aren't too long for my short arms) and can be paired with boots and tights for the cooler fall and winter weather. The drapey sweater vest is so cozy and I love that the faux fur collar gives it that glam factor, but it's also removable so you can pair it with more casual outfits.

Stitch Fix Etha Dress. Size XS. Similar | Stitch Fix Kendy Vest. Size XS. Similar | Kate Spade Mini Brantley bag. Similar | MAC Ladybug lipstick | Stuart Weitzman Boots. Similar

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