Dressing Room Diaries

And just like that, we’re back to Monday and early school mornings! I hope you had a lovely Thanksgiving week, full of love and yummy food! I loved every second of being home with the kids, and can’t wait for the Christmas break with them. We’re getting in the festive spirit around here, and I’m excited to start sharing it with you guys this week!

But, today it’s time for the next installment of Dressing Room Diaries. Y’all seem to like the occasional dressing room snaps I post on InstaGram and Facebook using #HSPDressingRoomDiaries, so I thought it’d be fun to expand it for the blog.

The shots aren’t good, the lighting is bad, and many of the items aren’t a good fit for me…but it’s real life, real girl, real clothes…and hopefully helpful for you to see them this way, instead of perfectly styled on a model. There’s also a few ridiculous Mr. SP photobombs! And you’d think I’d bother to put on make-up and comb my hair before snapping these, but you thought wrong. Real life, right? 😉

Sidenote: Everything fits true-to-size unless I indicate otherwise.


This is actually what I wore to mall, but loved the pattern mix, so I snapped a quick pic before my marathon changing session. I haven’t been able to find this scarf online yet, but this one is pretty similar, and this is a warmer version. My boots are 50% off through the end of today, too. #yourewelcome

Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries

I shared this in my Black Friday round-up, but it was a clear winner for me, too…and I added black to my kitten-cardi collection. I size up (I’m wearing a regular small) so I can wear it with leggings. It’s 50% off today, too. Let’s just go ahead and say everything I list is on sale today, mmmmkay?
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries

Hello, new Winter weekend uniform! This funnel neck pullover is on the thin side, but so fuzzy soft, and the cowl neck and hood are too cute! Don’t worry, I won’t wear it Red Riding Hood style, but wanted to show you it has a hood. And these leggings are hands-down the most comfortable I’ve ever tried, and extra thick for a fully-opaque look. Oh, they’re ankle-length, too, so they don’t bunch up in your boot.

Fit Tip: The top is roomy, but perfect for a relaxed fit over leggings. I’m wearing an XS.

Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I liked the retro vibe of this dress, but it’s not exactly my style. It’d be cute over tights with knee-boots for you taller girls. 
Fit Tip: I’d size up unless you want it hugging all your lady parts.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
This cardi is cozy and soft, and something you’d reach for all Winter long. I thought it was a tad long for my height…so again, a great find for you tall girls. And currently around $20!
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
This slouchy turtleneck sweater comes in great colors and is a steal right now! It runs big, but is intended to be a relaxed fit, and fully covers the bum.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I loved the pockets and roll-tab sleeves of this striped tunic sweater (and all the other colors). It’d be cute with a plaid shirt layered underneath.
Fit Tip: It runs quite large, so size down at least one. I’m wearing an XS and it’s still too big.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
Ooops, this is the same outfit I showed you already, but made even cuter with this fun, colorful scarf. I’ve been looking for a pink Winter scarf and this is my winner!
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
These black jeans are a great fit with nice stretch…and of course I was already wearing my favorite white tee. This plaid poncho would be cute belted over this tissue turtleneck and these knee boots.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
This knit turtleneck is silky soft with a cute, rounded hem.
Fit Tip: Size up if you want to wear it with leggings.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I must be craving comfort because I wanted to take home every soft pullover I tried on…this scoop neck hoodie was no exception. It’s tshirt weight, and so cute layered over a patterned tee or collared shirt.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
We have a handful of holiday parties and events this season, so I’m on the hunt for a fun party dress. I tend to gravitate to black, so I tried other colors to mix it up. I loved the shape of this fit and flare, but the shade of red was a little off for my coloring. It’d be beautiful on a brunette though!

Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I love a good striped dress, and this one has a great back…I’d totally scoop it up if I didn’t already have this one.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
Striped Dress (you have to see the back!) | Necklace
I love the delicate sleeves and modest length of this lace dress, and thought it looked a lot more expensive than it is! It’s also available in a ton of great colors.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
How fun is this dress? The little peek of skin at the cut-out is sassy, but not too revealing. You know I love a good black dress for Date Night.
Fit Tip: With some strategic placement, you could wear a standard strapless bra with this one.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
This beaded top paired with black slacks and heels would be a fun holiday look if you aren’t a fan of dresses. 
Fit Tip: It runs true-to-size…they just didn’t have my size in store so I’m wearing one size up in this pic.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I loved the shape and length of this dress, but found the arms a little restrictive…but that’s probably because of the thick jacquard material. The pattern is much prettier in person, too.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I liked the pattern and material so much, I tried the sleeveless version in green…and loved it! The shift shape is different than my usual fit-and-flare, and the emerald green so striking, and hello pockets! 
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
But of course I fell for a black, fit-and-flare dress too…but this one has a lovely lace top, and you have to see the back! I brought both this one and the previous green shift dress home to have Mr. SP help me choose. Which one gets your vote?
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
Now we’re back to cozy sweater tunics and luxe faux-fur scarves…loved both of these so much!

Fit Tip: Size up one in the sweater for a relaxed fit like I’m showing.

Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
This slouchy-neck is a great option for those of you who don’t like a true turtleneck…and I love the soft lilac color for Winter.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
This was my favorite sweater/tunic of the bunch…soft, thick without being bulky, and a great shape.
Fit Tip: Size up one for a tunic-fit like I’m showing.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I loved the chunky cable knit texture and fun color blocking of this crew neck sweater.
Fit Tip: This one runs a little small and short, so size up one.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
Another great turtleneck…I preferred this one with the neck all the way up. So cute with a shirt layered underneath, right? Yep, you can layer colored shirts under turtlenecks…sometimes I even poke the collar out like this.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
Are you noticing a pattern with the looks I continue to gravitate to this season?
Fit Tip: Size up one for a longer fit like I’m showing.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
The cobalt blue and ruffled neck makes this basic shift extra special.

Fit Tip: If you have some junk in the trunk like me, size up one so it doesn’t pull across the buttocks. #jenny #namethatmovie

Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I really wanted to love this sweater, but it’s ridiculously thin. The skirt is darling though, and would be so cute with tights and heels.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
This is hands-down my favorite plaid shirt of the season…I’ve already worn it countless times in the few weeks I’ve had it. It makes the perfect layer under so many sweaters and vests.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I loved the bright hues and color blocking of this sweater…and it’s on the thinner side for those days when it’s not super chilly.

Fit Tip: I’d prefer it a little more fitted, so size down.

Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
This is the same shirt (but different pattern) I wore for the Redbook cover shoot, so of course I had to have it. Love the relaxed boyfriend fit with leggings, and the buffalo plaid is so cute under fair isle patterns.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I prefer coats with collars, but this is a darling pattern…and actually very neutral.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
You know I adore this dress…I’ve already styled it {3 Ways} for you!
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
I’m a sucker for fair isle sweaters, and the more colorful the better! This one is soft cotton, but still fairly thick with a tight weave. Mr. SP stole the cute hat I was going to try on. And never mind his weird outfit…those are his soccer duds. #mantights

Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
And everything’s cuter with a puffer vest. The fur + hood made this one a little overwhelming for my pea head, but would be cute on those of you with normal-sized heads. 😉
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries
Darling pleated dress with an easy, flattering fit. It’d be so cute with this cardigan and tights, making it a great year-round dress.
Hi Sugarplum | dressing room diaries

Oh my wow, this was a marathon post! I probably should have warned you first, but there’s just so much cute stuff this season. And I have this thing about only getting naked once, so I tend to try on as much as possible in one sitting!

So what are your favorites from this installment of Dressing Room Diaries? See anything you want to try for yourself? What are you checking out this Cyber Monday?

{More Cyber Monday Sales worth checking out}

NORDSTROM  // Extra savings on all sale items
LOFT  //  Code CYBER50 for 50% off site wide + free shipping
BARRINGTON GIFTS  // SHOP10 for 10% off entire order
ACCESSORY CONCIERGE  //  Code THANKFUL for 30% off entire site

FURBISH  // Code CYBER for 20% off site wide
ANTHROPOLOGIE  //  Code SHOPTOIT for 25% off everything online
CHICWISH  //  Code BLK20 for 20% off site wide
POTTERY BARN  //  25% off all bedding, 30% off throws, stockings & holiday decor
WEST ELM  //  40% off pillows & more daily deals
WORLD MARKET  //  50% tons of stuff
SOLE SOCIETY  //  All shoes 30% off
ONE KINGS LANE  // Blowout clearance deals

Leave a Comment

34 Comments

  1. Rebekah Bowen Ashworth wrote:

    I bought that old navy color blocked sweater this weekend and thought, "This looks like something Cassie from Hi Sugarplum would wear!" (Of course that solidified my decision to buy it). I guess I was right 😉

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
    • Cassie Sugarplum wrote:

      Haha, I love it!! I would SO buy that!! Such a cute one…so cute with a plaid or gingham under, too!

      Posted 11.30.15 Reply
    • Rebekah Bowen Ashworth wrote:

      I would love for you to do a post on layering – how you pick patterns/colors/fit and how you still look slim when you do it! I have such a hard time with it and it never seems to look right on me! Is there a trick I'm missing??

      Posted 11.30.15 Reply
    • MelissaG wrote:

      I agree. I would love to see that too.

      Posted 12.1.15 Reply
    • Cassie Sugarplum wrote:

      This time of year, layers do start to get a little bulky…and I feel bulky in them sometimes, too…but it typically doesn't look as bulky as it feels. I just said bulky three times in one sentence. 🙂 The key to layering is keeping each one fitted…only the top layer can be a little more relaxed. My Rule of Three posts show some layering, but I'll start thinking about how to do a post on it!! xoxo

      Posted 12.1.15 Reply
  2. Emily wrote:

    Please keep the black lace dress!!!! Adorbs on you!

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  3. Sheaffer {Pinterest Told Me To} wrote:

    You look so great in all of those dresses! I think the black lace is my favorite, but I love that beaded top too!

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  4. Michele @ The Joyful Home wrote:

    Such cute finds! You look fabulous in everything, but the green dress gets my vote. Love all the slouchy turtleneck sweaters, as well!

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  5. MelissaG wrote:

    You are so stinking cute!! Love the casual looks. I don't do dresses much! Questions: 1. Do you have a monthly clothing budget? 2. Do you find big dept stores like Nordstroms overwhelming with selections? I tend to shop at Gap, Loft, etc and a lot of online boutiques because I feel the Nordstroms, Macy's stores just overwhelm me because they have so much stuff that I don't know where to start.

    I was morbidly obese for the past 20 years. In the past 2 years, I lost 163lbs. So buying clothes is fun now. I'm just trying to find a way to do it where I gave outfits to go to and not just a lot of pieces to wear with jeans and the same boots!

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
    • Cassie Sugarplum wrote:

      Congrats on your weight loss and healthy journey!!!! That is so amazing, I bet you are having so much in your new, healthy body!!

      I don't have a specific budget, and some months I do spend a little more than others (if it's the beginning of a new season or a high sales month), but I'm just really mindful of what I spend, and what I buy. Most everything is on sale!!

      I, too, prefer the smaller stores, but love Nordstrom so much. My closest store is pretty small, and I just stick with one or two departments, not the whole store at a time, so it's like shipping the boutiques. I also shop online Nordstrom, and just check categories I'm interested in. I hope this helps!!! Xoxox

      Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  6. MelissaG wrote:

    The Gap Fair Isle sweater…do they fit small/short? When I look at the picks on the website, they look like they aren't like big fluffy sweaters, but more fitted…

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
    • Cassie Sugarplum wrote:

      They def aren't oversized and fluffy, but I did size up one for a less fitted look. I just prefer my heavier sweaters be a little more relaxed…I'm usually wearing a shirt under them. Hope this helps!!

      Posted 11.30.15 Reply
    • MelissaG wrote:

      I ended up ordering the gray and pink Fair Isle one from the Loft. It seems more roomy, which is how I like those type of sweaters! 50% off today and free shipping!

      Posted 11.30.15 Reply
    • Cassie Sugarplum wrote:

      I ordered it too! #ooops 🙂

      Posted 12.1.15 Reply
    • MelissaG wrote:

      Ok I would love to see how you wear it!

      Posted 12.1.15 Reply
  7. Christina wrote:

    That red dress is amazing on you!! So festive! I ordered a few of the items you listed over the weekend! Can't wait!! Just lacking some long sleeve tees. I preferred a slightly relaxed fit… Would you recommend the Carson you were wearing… Maybe sized up?

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
    • Cassie Sugarplum wrote:

      Oops, see my response below! That's what I get for trying to respond on my phone!!

      Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  8. Kathy Olson wrote:

    I agree. That red dress is amazing on you! I loved the black lace dress on you, too.

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  9. Cassie Sugarplum wrote:

    I find the Caslon tees already pretty generous, so I wouldn't size up…even for a relaxed fit. Hope the other things work out for you!! Xoxo

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  10. Victoria wrote:

    Green dress! I know it's a floral print but really made me think of malachite. More unusual than the black lace which didn't seem as special to me.

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  11. Little Bits of Joy Blog wrote:

    Your husband photo bombs are awesome!! Mine would be doing the same. 🙂 Love the black lace dress on you!!!

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  12. Mego wrote:

    What dress/es did you end up getting?!

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
    • Cassie Sugarplum wrote:

      I still haven't decided! I love both the green and black lace…I'm considering ordering the lace dress in green and having the best of both!! 🙂

      Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  13. Unknown wrote:

    Do you know what size you are wearing in the Nordstrom Cardigan? (the one you said we'd reach for all winter long:) I'm waffling on sizes!!

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
    • Cassie Sugarplum wrote:

      I'm wearing an XS…it's a bit oversized. Maybe order both sizes and return one that doesn't work? Free shipping and returns! 😉 Hope this helps!

      Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  14. Cathy wrote:

    I bought the blue and black striped sweater tunic at Nordstrom a week ago and love it! I wore it for Thanksgiving day and got lots of compliments.

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  15. Tiffany Bagalini wrote:

    Love both dresses, but the green is amazing on you!

    Posted 11.30.15 Reply
  16. Sarah Rainey wrote:

    Your shape is so perfect it's unfair! Ha. You have such a good style. 🙂

    Posted 12.1.15 Reply
  17. Megan // Honey We're Home wrote:

    Those fair isle sweaters are my fave! You look so good in everything Cass! 🙂

    Posted 12.1.15 Reply
  18. Jam Jar Gill (from jamjargill.com) wrote:

    Cute idea – your dressing rooms definitely have better light than ours and mirrors. 🙂 You've given me the idea to try this as a method of cataloging outfits in my own wardrobe… I love the A line cardi with the button and red stripe dress the best 🙂

    Posted 12.1.15 Reply
  19. AK wrote:

    They both look great on you butI like the lace dress best, maybe try it in green or blue for something a little different?

    Posted 12.1.15 Reply
  20. onnery wrote:

    I vote for the lace dress. Not everyone can be as stunning and cute in that style but it suits your petite build. I like your idea to try the lace in green(?).

    Posted 12.1.15 Reply
  21. MelissaG wrote:

    Can I be nosy and ask how tall you are?

    Posted 12.2.15 Reply
    • Cassie Sugarplum wrote:

      No such thing as a nosy question around here! 🙂 Okay, maybe I can think of a few. 😉 I'm 5'4" and fluctuate between 115-120 lbs. Hope that helps! xoxox

      Posted 12.2.15 Reply