TBMD

A couple closeups of my recent jewelry acquisitions from the last few months. It's funny because I wasn't ever a rings girl... until recently. Thank you to all the bloggers I read that inspire me to purchase a couple statement rings of my own :)

1) J.Crew Layered pearl necklace in pearl (might still be in stores; similar) - The necklace is multi-layered and pretty hefty in weight. I like to wear them underneath shirt collars, otherwise on a bare neck, I feel like I'm about to be guillotined (gruesome image, sorry!) See it worn here and here.

2) Amrita Singh Sag Harbor Necklace in turquoise (currently sold here) - I bought this necklace during one of Hautelook's recently sales at a pretty good discount. I love how big it is -- such a statement maker! The turquoise color is absolutely gorgeous. I already own one of her Nello necklaces, and the richness of the color gets me every time. See it worn here.

3) H&M filigree ring in gold, size S (might still be in stores) - I had a hard time figuring out my size in this ring. The packaging didn't allow you to try them on, so I had to try on ones that others had already opened, and then eyeball the size against a new one. Turns out this method was a big fail. I really should have sized up because this only fits on my ring finger. I'd estimate size S to be a 6; size M is probably a 7. No complaints other than buying the wrong size, which is entirely my fault. See it worn here, here, here, and here.

4) Spotted Moth Busy Bee Ring via Kendi's giveaway (product info) - After the H&M debacle, I'm glad that this ring had adjustable sizing. It has a whimsical quality that I love and would be great paired with other plain rings.

5) Amrita Singh Deauville Ring in green turquoise/light coral, size 7 (currently sold here) - This was another purchase from the recent Hautelook sale. From what I remember of the product image, I thought I would receive a ring with two light turquoise stones? The two-colored stones turned out to be a pleasant surprise. I can now wear it with both my coral and turquoise jewelry. There are no complaints about sizing here; the 7 fits my middle finger perfectly. See it worn here.

I wanted to take advantage of Ann Taylor/Ann Taylor Factory/LOFT's 40% off sale this weekend, but didn't know when I would have the time. I had today off from work and just so happened to wake up super early (for me), so I took that as a sign that today's the day for outlet shopping. Traffic is horrendous in my area; morning rush hour ends late and afternoon rush hour starts early, so timing is crucial. It was meant to be.

When Jean tweeted this Ann Taylor Factory Vintage Floral Lace Dress, size 00P, I remembered it looked awfully similar to the regular store's version that sold out almost immediately last year. It was big on her, so I had high hopes that the dress would fit me. I felt the dress fit me pretty well overall, but the waist seems like it's cut a bit too high? I also wish the dress was longer on me, but unfortunately the outlets do not carry 00 sizes. This dress retails for $198, but with 40% off, the total came out to $118.80. I decided to take this home with me and think about it some more.

The dress above also came in a skirt version. I'm wearing size 0P and it felt just a little bit big. I think 00P would've been perfect but I couldn't find the size. I'm also wearing the Ann Taylor Factory Georgette Petal Top, size XXS P, which is also a copy of the regular store's version from about a year ago. I passed on both.

See the dress and skirt on Extra Petite and the top on Fast Food & Fast Fashion.

Lastly, I literally gasped out loud when I saw this Ann Taylor Factory Flower Animal Print Sheath Dress, size 00P. I've been looking for the regular store's version for the longest time, so I was ecstatic to see this dress in stores. Again, I wish the outlets carried 00 because I would like the length to be longer. It fit me well everywhere except the bust. That area was super roomy -- I swear I can stick a loaf of bread underneath. It's probably not worth the alterations for me as a padded bra would probably fix that issue. The dress has a back zipper instead of one on the side, but I had no problems putting it on. The dress retails for $119.99, so with 40% off, it came out to $71.99. I ended up purchasing this dress as well.

What are your throughts? Are there any I should return or alter?

I'm a huge fan of Old Navy, but their sizing leaves much to be desired. I'll still be order happy, but I really should not get my hopes up. Every item in my most recent purchase is going back to the store... unless you think otherwise?

I had high hopes for this Old Navy eyelet tie-Belt dress in white, size XS because it's so preppy but girly at the same time. Doesn't it remind you of Lilly Pulitzer at the Hamptons? The dress is made of durable cotton and came with a built-in slip. Right away I noticed how large it was. Nevertheless I tried it on, thinking that if I cinch the sash (also built-in), I could make it work. Nope, my hips look humongous. And not in a good way.

Next is the Old Navy Shiffli Shift Dress in white, size XS (currently sold here). Like the dress above, this one came with a built-in slip and is made of durable cotton. I'm a sucker for eyelet, can you tell? :) I wish the skirt flared out more like it did on the mannequin, so this will be a return for me as well.

The last item I bought was the Old Navy Lightweight Roll-Up Camp Shirt in olive green, size XS (currently sold here). I'm loving the pretty color as I've been on a military kick lately. It's super lightweight and great for the upcoming hot and humid weather. I thought it fit me pretty well, but I will wait for a super sale.

See a similar top on Honestly Kristen.

I went crazy at LOFT with all their sales/promos lately. As in making-multiple-trips-to-the-store and placing-orders-within-a-few-days-of-each-other crazy. But hopefully this is it for me for awhile, or you'll find me in line applying for a SA position.

I've been lusting after this LOFT Abstract Floral Print Pencil Skirt in violet tulle, size 00P (currently on sale here) for what seems like forever. 00P fits me perfectly everywhere except the hips/butt! I've never had a problem with tightness in that area of my body until I tried on this skirt. It's not too noticeable when I'm standing straight, but if I ever attempt to sit down, you can bet there will be a giant split down the back seam. I was able to pull up the skirt in order to sit down, but I'm sure it will get old and repetitive fast. So now my dilemma is: 1) Keep the 00P and have the tailors let out the back, 2) find a 0P and probably get it altered around the waist or 3) return and forget that I'm in love with this print?

See the same skirt on cute and little.

Update: I went and exchanged for a 0P (comparison pics below). I can now sit down without hiking up the skirt :) But it looks a bit big across the waist. Keep or return?

I went to great lengths to hunt down this LOFT Tie Neck Drapey Blouse in white, size XXS (currently sold here). Okay, it wasn't an epic journey, but I paid close to retail because I really wanted this blouse. It's a wrinkle mess out of the package, but hopefully hanging it up in the shower will smooth it out (still haven't gotten around to researching steamers yet). What I like: the airy-ness, the tie sash (me + sashes = win), can be dressed up or down (already have many outfits planned), the long-sleeves, and the fit.

I also ordered this LOFT Woven Ruffle Neck Dress in white, size 00P (currently sold here). The skirt is really pretty with a slight shimmer up close. I definitely have to go up a size -- the ribs and stomach area felt too tight for comfort. I think if the dress goes on further sale, I would seriously consider it.

See the dress on petite mom and little peanut.

This LOFT Pansy Blooms Ruffle Shell in vanilla, size XXSP (currently sold here) didn't initially catch my eye, but I thought I would give it a shot. The print didn't look as vibrant in real life (I cheated and played with Photoshop). I thought the top fit me pretty well, albeit a bit short, so I think the regular version would suit me better. The collar was kind of stiff, enough that I couldn't get it to lay open like the model. It's going back to the store.

See the top on Proudly Petite.

Finally, I ordered these LOFT Watercolor Flower Pin in all three colors, neutral, pink, and olive (currently sold here). See, I told ya I went crazy because I never order multiples. Originally I was going to pick my two favorite colors and return the third. Now that I have them in my possession, I'm torn. Help me pick two colors and give me a good reason not to keep all three!

Being able to shop again is a wonderful feeling :) Stop #1, J.Crew.

First is the J.Crew Double-serge pencil skirt in bronzed ochre, size 00 or 0P (currently on sale here). Silly me, both sizes I tried on were too big and now looking back, I can't remember which size I was wearing in the photos. I wish 00P was available when I ordered, but even if it had fit, I probably would have returned the skirt. In person, the color didn't seem as vibrant as on the model, so I was disappointed. I did like how the material was nice and thick though.

See the same skirt on cute and little and Extra Petite (did I miss anyone?)

Next is the J.Crew cotton bell skirt in mauve morning, size 00 (currently on sale here). I love my J.Crew wool bell skirt so much that I wanted to try out the cotton version too. I remember the 00 in wool felt a bit tight on me, so I went home with a size 0. I would recommend sizing down on the cotton version because the elastic didn't feel as tight. I ultimately returned the skirt because I noticed this color also comes in J.Crew's pencil skirt version*, which I decided I would rather own. Now I just have to cross my fingers that this color makes it to sale.

*On an unrelated note, the citron pencil skirt color looked so promising online, but in person, not so much. So buyer beware!

See the same skirt on SewPetiteGal and Vicky's Daily Fashion.

Lastly, the J.Crew Perfect-fit mixed-tape cardigan in bronzed twig, size XS (other colors currently sold here). I first saw it on the chloe conspiracy and was smitten with the various ways that she styled this cardigan. It's a color that I don't own in my closet, so I took a chance even though it's final sale. After trying it on, I'm iffy about the color on my darker skin (darn it, Chloe makes everything look so good!). The fit is fine (I would probably prefer it to be a tad looser), but because it's final sale, I'm determined to find ways to make it work. Any recommendations on good color pairings?

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 picked up this Talbots Winter lace top in navy, size 0P (currently on sale here). The online model looked absolutely gorgeous wearing it so I had high hopes for this top. When I received it in person, I marveled over how nicely made this top was and how it didn't feel itchy when running my fingers over the lace. The fit on me was a disappointment. It felt fine across the shoulders but had more of a boxy and short fit, reminiscent of kids' clothing. Perhaps it's my long torso or the model wearing higher-rise jeans, but I'm getting too old to be baring my midriff. Sadly this top will be going back.

I couldn't turn my eyes away from this Talbots Drape front sweater in mist heather, size S/M (currently on sale here). I love the draped look and it reminded me a lot of an Alice + Olivia sweater from a few months ago. The fit was big on me, but probably would look a lot better if I had belted it like the model. I couldn't get over how itchy it felt, so this too will be a return back to the store.

Overall, this wasn't a horrible experience. I would still give Talbots a shot (but staying away from final purchases!). They have pretty and modern pieces that I'm already eyeing for spring :)

On an different note, go check out some fabulous modeling shots of bloggers' Bals at for the love of Balenciaga including yours truly and SewPetiteGal!

All of these skirts and (useless) dresses were bought in December, so I'm still doing ok with my resolutions ;)

First is the LOVE 21 Tiered Waist Skirt in mauve, size XS (currently sold here). It looked promising on the model, but I knew it was going to be a return the minute I opened up the package. There were loose threads in multiple places and the fit just did not look flattering on me. The more I look at the photos, the more the pockets look like Dumbo's ears.

Next is the J.Crew Factory cotton Nico skirt in soft sandalwood, size 0 (currently sold here). I was really looking forward to this because a cute cotton skirt in a neutral-khaki color goes with practically everything. When I tried it on though, a muffin top I didn't know I had popped out! All the fat I had around the stomach area was pushed in by this thick rubber-band-like waistband. Not flattering at all. When the skirt is worn above the waist though, it looked a whole lot better. In the end, I still decided to return this skirt.

This J.Crew Factory Cotton-Silk Shimmy Dress in ivory, size 0 was a final sale item. I loved the ruffles and the Victorian look, but let's be honest here, it could pass for a nightgown, lol. Mostly, I loved the potential of the dress --- I could already imagine styling it multiple ways.

The dress came in 3 parts, the actual dress itself (quite sheer), a slip (sheer as well), and a black sash. There is no zipper opening for the dress, just a small keyhole in the back with a button closure. I was a little worried because I sometimes have a hard time getting my shoulders in and out of dresses without zippers (darn wide shoulders!) J.Crew's size 0 is a hit or miss for me, so I crossed my fingers praying it won't be too big. The shoulders seem to fit me fine, but the rest feels a bit big, but could be remedied by the sash around the waist. What do you think though, should I pay to get it slimmed? If anyone has experience, how much would that roughly cost?

I also picked up this Bensoni Silk Asymmetrical Ruffle Dress in coral, size 0 from Gilt, also a final sale item (note to self: I really, really, need to stop buying at final sales). I fell in love with the dress on the model and despite some reservations on the bright color, I figured I should be dark enough to pull it off.

I would say the color is more of a bright salmon-y pink instead of coral. The V-neck is not too low, which I appreciated because I'm flat as a pancake. But I was expecting the neckline to not be dead-center given the asymmetrical name. Half the ruffles around the waist was also pushed downwards, which I didn't notice until now, but a quick iron should fix this. I thought the fit was pretty good overall, except the armholes. Is that worth $ for alterations?

I picked up this American Eagle Shawl Collar Waffle Cardigan in military green, size XS (currently on sale here). I have way too much gray and white tops, so I decided on green, one of many colors that's lacking in my closet. I liked the soft feel (not itchy) and the longer length. For some reason, the shawl collar kind of remind me of bookish professors, haha. But it has a more casual-vibe, which I liked. I'm not so sure on fit though -- does it look too tight on me? The shoulders seem sort of narrow, so I'm thinking I probably need to go a size up.

Next, I bought this LOFT Rosette Halter Cami in strawberry red, size XS P. I love the vibrant hot pink/fuchsia color and the detailing down front. The fit is pretty good, doesn't feel big at all. I remember trying on size XXS P and had a hard time getting the top over my head (no zippers). Although that might have fit me better, this size was easier to get in and out of. I think this one's a keeper! The label says it's 100% polyester and machine washable, but I wonder if that will possibly ruin the ruffles and rosette?

On to the next store. I bought up this Express Rosettes Scoop-Neck Tank in dusty plum, size XS (currently sold here). The fit looks to be about the same as the LOFT rosette halter cami above, but it feels looser. I think it's the lack of skin coverage. I would feel more comfortable in a size XXS, so this one is going back to the store.

And the last item is this Express (Minus the) Leather Moto Jacket in dusty pink, size XS (currently sold here). I haven't been looking for a motorcycle-like jacket, but wouldn't it be wonderful if my Balenciaga had a friend? =P When I saw it on Really Petite, SewPetiteGal and also on Kileen, I thought I might have found the perfect one. I loved the color in person and online, but the fit looks so awkward on me! I know it's supposed to have a shorter fit, but does it look extra short on me? I never thought of myself as having a long torso, but I must've been in denial all these years, haha. The leather is so wonderfully soft and smooshy. Can't tell it's fake leather at all besides the squeaks when I move. Is that normal for fake leather? Should I return or simply wear longer layers underneath?