Another one of my outerwear purchases from over the summer is the Stella McCartney trench cape coat (no longer available). I've loved it ever since spotting Anh and Wendy's camel versions from years past.

I'm wearing size IT 40, but really should've gone down to a 38 so it's more "fitted" like on the model (an oxymoron since it is a loose-fitting style.) From certain angles, it does look like there are too much fabric, and I certainly sometimes felt that way as well depending on how I "drape" the fabric. I keep changing my mind about taking the cape to the tailors because I just don't know if it's worth it. Ideally, I'd like the sleeves to be shortened to bracelet length and maybe slim the sides a bit to get rid of excess fabric. I also wonder if the cape needs to be shortened by 1-2". Any thoughts? Am I just over-thinking this?
This was my first experience with the Stella McCartney brand and I'm underwhelmed. I should've stopped lumping amazing quality, $$$, and a "brand name" together long ago... I suppose the markup is still a hard pill to swallow. I was surprised to find the cape to be unlined on the inside and with loose threading in multiple places. The more I wear the cape, the more I find myself starting to come around to the lack of lining because of how easily the fabric moves and drapes. I suppose it would be unsightly to see lining peeking through? Then again, the pockets are visible in the first photo above.

Capes are very trendy this upcoming cold-weather season, but I think they're something only girls would like. DH hasn't seen me wear my cape yet, but I can already picture his WTF-face and liken me to wearing a garbage bag due to its bagginess. Girls on the other hand, I feel like can appreciate capes more. One of my female coworkers complimented me on my cape the first time I wore it to work. I then started effusing about how it's like I'm all wrapped up in a cozy blanket. Can you tell we've commiserated over the cold office one too many times.

I stumbled across a great "look for less" option in Rebecca Minkoff's Pierre cape coat. This cape is the closest I've seen as a dupe for Stella's (believe me, I've done my share of window shopping trying to hunt one down.) There are a few noticeable differences: RM's lack the shoulder epaulettes, has more buttons, and looks to have "real" sleeves which might make for a sleeker silhouette by cutting down on excess fabric. This cape retails for $498 and comes in two colors:
1) blush [photo left below] - available at Shopbop
2) noble green [photo right below] - available at Nordstrom, NM, Cusp, RM

When I was in London earlier this year, I inquired about trench cape re-releases because the camel and pink versions were from two different seasons. The SA at the Stella boutique said she doesn't know about this particular cape style, but capes in general are usually available every winter season. I don't know if the waiting game is worth it since RM's is such a great dupe. If I hadn't already gotten my hands on Stella's, I would snatch up RM's in a heartbeat. Patience is not always my strongest virtue.

After passing on J.Crew heartthrob items last year, I patiently scoured eBay to no avail. A few weeks ago, I was ecstatic to see J.Crew re-release this print on their Factory site in a variety of styles (cardigan, skirt, umbrella, scarf). The price for the blouse is a bit steep at $98, so again begins the waiting game. Just as I was about to pull the trigger during a 30% off sale, I saw Khatu share a great dupe for $20, the Forever 21 Essential Georgette Heart Shirt (sold here). Heart print item craving satisfied.

Forever 21's version is coral/navy, whereas J.Crew's is red/black. The longer length of J.Crew's probably looks better on someone my height (~5'5"), but for the savings in price, I can't complain about Forever 21's. I like longer sleeves in general, so was pleasantly surprised to find the sleeve length to be even longer than I preferred.
A few other noteworthy details: hidden placket covers black buttons, uppermost button and cuff buttons are gold instead of black (nice touch), two large flap pockets (don't really care for), machine washable, pretty good quality (no loose threads), fairly wrinkle-resistant.

For reference, I'm wearing a size XS. Approximate measurements:
- length: 24"
- shoulder-to-shoulder: 14"
- sleeve length: 24"

Also see this top on Olyvia and Elvy.

I was eyeing two pairs of sandals during Shopbop's 20% off Friends & Family sale last week. I took too long hemming and hawing, so by the time I was ready to buy, my sizes were sold out. Luckily LOFT's 40% off Friends & Family sale occurred a day later because I found dupes for both pairs. Thank you, shoe Gods!

Sam Edelman Gigi sandals [left] vs. LOFT Vaughn sandals in white snakeskin print, size 6 [right]:
I like how the Gigis have the signature (I think?) Sam Edelman cushioned padding. They certainly helped with comfort in my one prior experience with the brand. The LOFT pair doesn't have the same padding, but otherwise looks the same as the Gigis.

I found these sandals to run true to size. The footbed isn't the most comfortable, but that's to be expected without padding. I would compare the the type of material used (thickness, flexibility, etc) and level of comfort similar to J.Crew capri sandals (which I used to own) and Old Navy Faux-Leather Capri sandals (currently own).

The buckle closure was my biggest issue with these sandals. There's an elastic portion right next to the buckle, so every time I pulled, trying to undo the closure, the elastic part stretched but the buckle wouldn't budge. Am I just a n00b with chubby fingers? I can already see myself struggling with the closure every morning, so sadly, this pair will be going back to LOFT.

Sam Edelman Sophie sandals [left] vs. LOFT Frances color pop wedges in safari tan, size 6 [right]:
I wanted a pair of sandals with two thicker straps across the front and a thick/wide wooden heel. Though neither fit the heel requirement, I felt the lower heel (~2") was a good compromise and didn't look too clunky. I also liked the nude color of the top strap -- doesn't cut off your legs. I can see these wedges being dressed up with skirts and worn casually with jeans.

I took my usual size 6 in these wedges and felt they run a bit long in length and on the narrow side in width. My foot wasn't hanging off the side edges, but my toes do look a bit squished (pic below). The roominess in front didn't feel as significant as it looks in photos -- though I do wonder if the extra space will bother me over time. Sizing down probably wouldn't work because of the narrow width. The ankle strap could be slightly more snug (top strap isn't adjustable), but so far, no almost-twisting-the-ankles while briskly walking around at home.
The best feature is the back zipper. I struggled with the buckle closure of the Vaughn sandals, so it was a relief that I didn't have to fiddle with the strap on this pair. If I had to nitpick, the zipper doesn't glide as smoothly as I'd like, but using one hand to pull the material taut before unzipping helped.

I wore the wedges around the house and barely noticed I had shoes on. They're comfortable and it helped that the material is lightweight. I can possibly see a need to break in the ankle straps as they might cause blisters. But for now, I'm leaning towards keeping this pair because I love the colors and style. Please help me decide -- should I keep or return these wedges?

1) Forever 21 Leatherette Skirt in black, size S (sold here) - I like the flared shape of this skirt without being too poofy. I preferred this type of skirt to sit higher on the waist (below right) than at the natural waist level (below left). Luckily a SA was able to help me track down a size XS, which went home with me.

2) Forever21 Woven Skirt in mustard, size M (sold here) - This skirt I tried on for fun. The fabric seemed very wrinkle prone, so even if there were smaller sizes, I would've passed. The color is a pretty mustard yellow.

3) Forever 21 Short Length Flared Dress in grey, size S (tag; similar) - I liked the overall fit on me, but the armholes were too big, so I passed. I also did have trouble zipping up the dress all the way in the back. One positive is that I could step into the dress as opposed to pulling it over my head.

4) Forever 21 Striped Knit Sweater in navy/cream, size S (tag; similar) - I'm a sucker for stripes in general but I really don't wear a whole lot of sweaters. I liked the weight and feel of this one, but did not like the boat neck, so I passed. The fit was pretty good overall.

5) Forever 21 Long Woven Shirt in mustard, size S (tag; similar; similar) - This top is a great dupe for Ann Taylor's Silk Trench Shirt in terms of color and style, but at a cheaper price. Given its length, I can probably get away with styling it as a tunic, but that just meant more excess fabric to deal with when tucked. I passed.

First, the J.Crew Café capri in wool in camel, size 00 (sold here). I didn't like the pants on me for many reasons: hem hits at an odd spot (petite versions are 2" shorter according to the SA), my butt looks huge (the rise would be shorter in petite versions), and the faux-pockets. The waist fit decently though and I really like the fabric.

Next, the American Eagle Herringbone Blazer in brown, size XS (sold here). The jacket looked better online than it did in person. It's much too short on me and kind of shapeless. On a true petite, the waist area should hit where it's supposed to and flare out properly. The shoulder fit me pretty well and may even be a bit on the tight side.

AE and aerie are both having a 40% off everything in-stores and online with code 28678011 for the holiday weekend.

Next, the Forever 21 Woven Menswear Top in orange, size S (sold here), which I saw on The Look 4 Less that is a great dupe for the Equipment Signature blouse. The top fit me well everywhere, and I would have sized up for the looser menswear look if the store had any of the royal blue color left.

There's an extra 30% off all sale items both in-stores and online.

Lastly, I couldn't walk out of the store without stopping by the accessories section. My only purchase of the day and I bought three bracelets. I don't see them online, so I've included the product code if you're interested in tracking them down in stores. From left to right:
(1) Forever 21 rope/cable bangle (product code: 78967286021) in silver is a great dupe for David Yurman's famous cable bracelet without the jewel tip. I also saw a gold version in stores.

(2) Forever 21 rhinestone snake chain bracelet in silver/clear (sold here). These bracelets vary in size and I went through the entire bowl to find the smallest one (probably one that nobody has tried on). Edit: Thanks to Elissa for pointing out this bracelet's weave being a great dupe for John Hardy's.

(3) Forever 21 chain link bracelet (product code: 00019692011) in gold (similar; similar). Compared to the previous two, this one is a bit harder to put on, but the bracelet was loose enough that I didn't have too much trouble with the toggle clasp.

Through Suddenlee, I was able to get my hands on this pair of Zara court shoe with snakeskin toe, size 36. They are a great alternative to this gorgeous Alejandro Ingelmo snake pump (sold here) which I fell in love with but knew I could never handle the heel height. The Zara pair did not have the straight heel, but it's walkable at a little over 3" in height. I took my regular size in these shoes and they are a perfect fit. I love the pointy toe without being too Halloween witch-like.

The pumps are surprisingly comfortable, with plenty of padding from the heel to the toe. Unlike some of the flats I own, these didn't require a break-in period. There is some toe cleavage (which I like, but others may not care for) but not as much as the Ann Taylor perfect patent pumps. The only negative is the $90 price tag. I didn't want to take a chance with it selling out before the next semi-annual sale, so I caved.

Two snake print items in a month and a half? I do believe I'm slowly getting over my phobia ;)

*My tripod (and sunglasses) weren't around, so thank you to my patient boyfriend for taking these photos!

I first saw this Mossimo Messenger bag (pictured below right) on Blue Paper Lanterns and Petite Early Morning Style and literally gasped out loud. If I didn't know any better, I would have thought it to be an exact replica of the Proenza Schouler PS1 (pictured below left / buy here) which I've talked about wanting in the past.

I took a trip to Target today and ran towards the shelves when I saw a display full of this bag. Boyfriend could only laugh and shake his head while following in my footsteps. Surprisingly, he turned out to be the one who really liked the bag on me, while I was the one waffling.

The price can't be beat (currently selling for $34.99) and I liked how it came in a variety of colors. However, I could not get over how strong the bag smelled -- and not in a good way. Thinking I might just had picked up the smelliest one, I went and sniffed all the other colors. Turns out they all emitted the same odor. I suppose it's what faux leather smells like, but it was worse than a bad perfume. I wonder if letting it air out would help? In the end, I didn't end buying the bag. Of course I never buy anything boyfriend likes, and what I do buy he doesn't like :) Thank goodness the bag doesn't come in the same gorgeous shade of red as the Proenza Schouler, or I would've been in big trouble.

Excuse the pregger pics below. I either have a food baby or bad posture. Probably a combination of both.

Another (better?) shot of my outfit:

*Proenza Schouler image courtesy of bagcraze; Mossimo Messenger image courtesy of Target

My quest for neutral ballet flats started when I spotted these Valentino flats at Saks about 6 months ago. The retail price of $495 was much more than I'm willing to spend, so I spent weeks staring at its prettiness while trying to find another that makes my heart skip a beat.

I bought these Delman Mona ballerina flats in oat crinkled patent, size 6 (currently sold here) because they retail for $195.00 and I paid $55. I can't say no to a great sale. Reviews for this pair said most people sized up, but since it was on sale, I was stuck choosing between either 6 (my normal size) or 7.5. I was hoping to be one of the minority where it fit true to size, but unfortunately size 6 was too tight on me. There was toe pinching and now I have an inkling of how sardines feel in a can, lol. Another 0.5-1 size up would be much more comfortable. From the few steps that I did take, there seemed to be a good amount of cushioning and padding, so with the correct size I can see this pair being comfortable. After all, Delman are supposed to be known for their flats.

After returning the Delmans, I then went and bought the Gap the city flat in camel, size 7 (currently sold here) over the holidays. These are actually a great look for less alternative to Lanvin ballet flats. The scrunched up shape (bottom right) looked odd when I first saw them, but don't be scared because they're quite comfortable on. What made me decide to return this pair was the color -- a few shades too dark for my skin tone, and I needed more structure in the toe box -- the leather practically molds to the feet and didn't make mine look flattering.

On the third try, I thought I had found success with this pair of Forever 21 Scrunch Flats with Bow in taupe, size 7 (currently sold here). Size 6 was too tight and size 7 is a tad loose. If only these flats came in half sizes, then 6.5 would have been perfect. After trying on the previous two pairs, I've come to the conclusion that my feet look better in flats with some sort of adornment on the toe box. I think it draws attention away from my wide feet. I decided to keep this pair, but the happiness didn't last long, as I lost one of the bows soon after :(

When the Valentinos finally went on sale at Saks, my size sold out almost immediately. I kicked myself (literally, by accident) for not being on top of daily shoe stalking, because now here I am back to square one. When browsing for other similar options (like this Miu Miu pair which is oh-so-pretty), I came across the same exact Valentinos for half off at Foot Candy! It must've been fate, first to lose a bow on the F21 pair at the same time sales are going on. So here it is, my Valentino Bow Ballerina Flats in blush, size 36.5 (currently sold here).

I did my research prior to purchasing and went half a size up. The flats are definitely more on the narrow side, so my regular size 6 would have been too small. Size 7 would have left too much room in the toe box, so 6.5 is about as good as it gets. It still is narrow, but I think over time the leather will stretch and mold to my feet. I like how the leather is super soft and buttery. After wearing it for a few days now, to my dismay there is a breaking-in period. Unlike my patenet Miu Mius where the back would rub against my feet causing blisters, this elastic back on this pair would push my feet forward a bit (but no blisters!). Now looking back at pictures, I shouldn't be surprised because out of the box the flats curved like a "U." Do you have experience with curved flats? Do they flatten out over time?

I recently bought these Ann Taylor Perfect Patent Pump in black, size 6 (currently sold here). Thank you Jean @ Extra Petite and Cari @ Sisters Sincere for the suggestion! I'm now the proud owner of non-witchy black pumps.

Right out of the box, I was impressed with how shiny these pumps looked. I could see my own reflection! These pumps looked and felt more expensive than they actually were. I'd recommend them as a great Christian Louboutin Simple pumps look for less with their almond-toe and straight heel.

Many reviews suggested ordering a half-size smaller than your usual size, but I stuck with my normal US size 6 (never in my life have I ever worn size 5.5 shoes!) The fit was perfect, so I conclude that I must have normal-to-wide feet. The footpad had plenty of padding and is as comfortable as 3" heels can be. After paying around $100 for these pumps, I felt gypped for all my other shoes at this price point, lol. For the quality and comfort-level, I could see myself buying other pairs... that is, if I ever switch to a job that requires dressing up :)

Today's outfit is inspired by Kim Kardashian -- the girl simply never looks bad. I can't get enough of wearing this dress as a top ;) I've paired it with practically every skirt in my possession and not once have I worn it out as a dress lol. I love the color combo of Kim's outfit, but alas I had to make do with what I have. Hey, at least her top kinda matches my tights!

*Kim Kardashian image courtesy of The Look 4 Less

Hosted by PetiteLittleGirl, Petite Fashion Challenge #3: The look for less has us recreating a look for less of our favorite style icon. Everyone knows I love Olivia Palermo, but her style isn't really me, it's what I want to be. She's so put-together all the time whereas I'm more... simple and laid-back. Therefore, I chose Lauren Conrad of The Hills (sorry Olivia for cheating on you!)

After scouring the Internet for pics that I could possibly use, I came across one of Lauren wearing Christian Louboutin pumps and possibly J Brand jeans while carrying a Chanel bag. The items I dug out for my outfit are considerably less in cost, but I really wish I had round-toe pumps! The witchy ones I have on are better suited for Halloween haha. (Note to self: keep an eye out for black patent round-toe pumps)

*Lauren Conrad image courtesy of Celebrity Gossip

Ever since these Loeffler Randall Matilde boots (pictured left) came out a few years ago, it's been seen on multiple celebs and lusted after by moi. The $700 price tag that comes attached is just way too steep for me. So I waited and waited... until I saw these Old Navy Sliver-Wedge boots in camel, size 6 (pictured right) for $40! Yes, $40! (currently sold here) Granted they're made of synthetic materials but look at the resemblance! I was able to buy it with their 30% off code from last week, so overall I paid a tad under $30.
The boots are fairly lightweight and thin. The inside is felt-like -- maybe suede? (probably not given the price). I've never tried on the Matildes, so I don't know how easy or hard it is to wear. Even with the zipper on the Old Navy ones, I had trouble pulling them up over my jeans! It mostly happened with my left leg, but I had to seriously wedge my feet in there while tugging on the boot shaft at the same time. It was not a pretty picture. But once I got them on, I found them to be comfortable and easy to walk in. I like to wear knee-high socks with my boots, but I don't think there will be room with this pair (unless I wear tights).
I'm a bit of a n00b when it comes to trying and judging how boots look on me. Any thoughts? I'm still debating whether I should keep them. For $30, it seems like a no-brainer to keep, right? But it's still money. I do like how they look on me but putting them on is such a pain, I'm not sure it's worth it. What do you guys think? Should I keep or return?

*Loeffler Randall image courtesy of Revolve Clothing

Happy 4th of July! Today's look for less features Robert Rodriguez's Twist Knot Skirt (which is no longer sold in stores =/) and Express's Knotted Mesh Mini skirt (currently selling for $49.90). I first saw RR's version on a fashion forum and fell in love. But by then, it must've been towards the end of the season because I could no longer find my size online. Express just came out with their Knotted Mesh Mini skirt, so I'm leaning towards grabbing it before it's sold out! The only thing I'm not sure of is the black color -- the knotted detail doesn't show up as well. I'm definitely going to look for this next time I'm in stores though :)

I have a thing for quilted bags. This Lanvin Amalia quilted bag is classic with a twist of girliness, which I absolutely love :) The price tag though... not so much :( They range from $2000 - $3000 depending on the size (GM sold here, MM sold here).

When browsing through my usual sites today, look what I saw at Forever 21: their version of the Lanvin Amalia which they called the Audrey Leatherette bag, at a much affordable $22.80. But... it just doesn't look as luxurious, for lack of better word haha. I know, I know, that's such an obvious thing to say. I'm more partial to Lanvin's black over Forever 21's brown. Buy it online here!

I doubt shoes would get any more inspired than this! These Lauren by Ralph Lauren Aela sandals (currently sold here) are a dead ringer for Jimmy Choo Mitsu's. The lighting of the pictures are probably different, so the gold tone looks a bit off. Unlike the rsvp Tarans and the Manolo Sedarbys counterpart, I actually saw the Ralph Lauren's first. I'm actually not even sure if the Jimmy Choos are from the current season... so I don't remember how I stumbled across the similarities. Alas, back to the review on the Aelas.

They are quite comfortable. I had known this prior to purchasing based on reviews, so I wasn't too worried. And it's only 3" :P (I can't believe I say only as if I wear heels everyday haha). But I think my above average foot arch might have something to do with it. I love the pale gold of the Aelas and feel that it would actually go well with both gold or silver jewelry. I wore these sandals for the first time at a wedding two weekends ago that lasted 5+ hours of me standing and dancing practically the whole time. I was doing pretty good until we ventured out to take photographs on hilly cobblestone roads -_- All in all though, definitely comfortable and worth it if you're going for the classic, timeless look.

*Images courtesy of Studio Saldana