Dressing Room Diaries

Cheers to almost-Friday, friends, and the long weekend ahead! Is it a long weekend for you? It’s a little weird with the holiday falling on a Tuesday. I thought many of you might be getting a jump on your weekend, and so many of the great sales have already started, so I’m bringing you the latest round of Dressing Room Diaries a day early! And this one chock full of Summer new arrivals, and my darling Mama Sugarplum!

You know the drill with Dressing Room Diaries...I hunt down some of the cutest items from my favorite retailers, and review them for you. As usual, the shots aren’t good, the lighting is bad, and I’m in desperate need of a hairbrush. 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. So let’s get started!

Fit Note: I’m 5’4″-ish, 120 pounds-ish (depending on the week’s taco count), with a slight pear shape. Mama Sugarplum is 5’1″, with an hourglass figure. Our usual size is XS/0.

I’m kicking this DRD off with my favorite category, dresses, and my favorite find of the week…this racerback ruffle dress. Pretend I’m wearing the proper bra (this one, to be exact) and just look at the back! It’s like a party in the front, and a Par-Tay in the back! Not to mention, the color is stunning and unexpected. I think this is my first item of of purple in my closet, and I’m pretty psyched about it. The dress is thick and flowy, with a slight asymmetrical hem. It also looks equally cute with flat sandals for day, and heels for night.

Fit Tip: I typically wear petites in dresses, but the petite was waaaaay too short for me. This is a regular XS, so I’d say it runs true. If you’re in-between sizes though, I’d probably go down one.

Ruffle Racerback Dress

This dress looks like a black-tie showstopper, right? Nope…it’s a soft and stretchy jersey knit! So flattering with the neckline and side slit, but darling with flip-flops.

Fit Tip: This XS fits great, and the extra length is an easy hem.

High-Neck Maxi Dress

This jersey knit is equally soft and comfy, but with a scoop neck and flattering darts. It’s thick enough to smooth over lumps and bumps, but still lightweight and breezy for hot days. It will transition well for Fall, too, with the addition of a jean jacket.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a petite XS which fits great, but comes short of skimming the floor. I actually prefer this cross between a midi and maxi for length.

Scoopneck Midi/Maxi Dress 

Here are the dresses on Mama SP, too, so you can get an idea of how they look on her petite frame. This was her favorite of the two, and went home with her!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS, and she’s wearing a petite XS.

High-Neck Maxi Dress | Scoopneck Maxi Dress

She loved the high-neck version, too, but ultimately chose the other because it didn’t require hemming.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a petite XS and she’s wearing a reg XS.

Scoopneck Maxi Dress | High Neck Maxi Dress

Another dress that appears dressy, but is actually as comfortable as your favorite tee. This midi has a fitted tank-style bodice, and a soft, flowing skirt. You could dress it up with wedges and statement jewelry, or with flip flops around the pool. The thickness makes it a great transitional piece, too.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS, and it works perfectly with a standard bra. 

Fit-and-Flare Midi Dress (on sale in ivory!)

I liked it so much, I tried it in this punchy red…which for some reason, was a bit lower in the chest.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS in this one, too.

Fit-and-Flare Midi Dress (on sale in ivory!)

And here it is on both of us…mom adored the black one! She could easily wear it to work with a jean jacket, and said she’d take it all the way to Fall.

Fit Tip: We’re both wearing XS.

Midi Dress (on sale in ivory!)

You can see from this pic how much lower the red one is…not enough to show a bra, but definitely a little cleavage. #howyoudoin Oh, did I mention pockets?!

Midi Dress (on sale in ivory!)

This dress has a similar fit, but falls to the knee and is much thicker in both the bodice and skirt. The v-neck is a little deep, but I’m still wearing a regular bra. Like the others, this one dresses up or down, and transitions to Fall. That’s some serious cost-per-wear!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS and it was a teeny-bit tight…so if you’re in-between sizes, I’d go up one. Keep in mind though, you want the bodice really fitted to get the true fit-and-flare silhouette.

Striped Fit-and-Flare Dress

You know this silhouette is in my wheelhouse and I can never resist them! This stunner is a super-thick, extra-stretchy jacquard material that actually holds everything in, and kicks out beautifully at the hem. That back zipper is a gorgeous rose gold, and the pattern a soft blush pink and ivory.

Fit Tip: This brand is new to me, so I’m not 100% on the sizing. I’m wearing a 1 (the equivalent of a 0-2), which felt really tight when zipping up, but fine once on. I think it’s supposed to be extra-fitted.

Checked Fit-and-Flare Dress

This stunner would be gorgeous for work, evenings and even weddings. The cut-out thick lace reveals a fun pattern, and the color block makes it so modern. I love the little cap sleeve and low back for feminine details.

Fit Tip: For this one, I tried a 2 (equivalent to a 2-4) and it’s too big, so size 1 is the right fit for me with this brand. Plus, they call it a mini, but clearly it’s longer on my frame. 

Cap Sleeve Eyelet Dress 

Here are the same dresses on Mama SP. You can see the fit-and-flare had plenty of stretch for her larger bust, so it’s great for a range of body styles.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2 and she’s wearing a 1.

Eyelet Dress | Checked Dress

I won’t be surprised if she orders this navy one in the right size…she was positively swooning!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 1, and she’s wearing a 2…but needs a 1.

Checked Dress | Eyelet Dress

Moving on to this off-the-shoulder…the website refers to it as slub knit, but it feels a bit like a stretchy terrycloth. The material is very textured, but lightweight. The colors are nice and vibrant, but it’s definitely a casual dress best suited for flat sandals or sneakers.

Fit Tip: It runs really large, I’m wearing an XXS Petite, and it’s still on the full and long side.

Off-the-Shoulder Dress

Mom isn’t comfortable with off-the-shoulder, so she pulled it up for a different look. It’d make a great swimsuit cover-up like that I guess.

Fit Tip: We’re both wearing XXS petite.

Off-the-Shoulder Dress

I was instantly smitten with this lemon print and the bold color combo. The linen dress is fully-lined with great ‘swing’ (It’s all about the movement!). The halter-style neck has a keyhole front, but doesn’t reveal a bra.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular 00, so it runs large. It comes in a petite too, if you prefer a shorter length, but be aware of the waistline placement. 

Lemon Print Midi Dress

This shift is a cute combination of stripes and eyelet, and the body is a sturdy 100% cotton. It nips in just slightly at the waist, but is mostly a straight fit.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS and have plenty of extra room, so I’d consider sizing down.

Eyelet Striped Shift Dress (also here)

I twirled the second I tried this flirty number on! Not only do I love the color and silhouette, but the ruffle hem and keyhole neckline make it party-perfect. There’s not a lot of room in the bust, so it may not be for everyone. The material is substantial and has a linen texture, and it’s fully-lined.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Tiered Dress

If you’ve read this blog for a minute, then you’re no stranger to this racerback dress. It’s been my go-to for years for everything from beachwear to parties…it dresses up so easily and seems to work for all occasions. And even better, it packs beautifully, so it comes with me on every trip. These new colors were just introduced, so I wanted to see them for myself. The ‘red persimmon’ is definitely more of a burnt orange #hookem, and the ‘pink blossom’ is kind of a salmon.

Fit Tip: It runs true for me, I’m wearing an XS. The armholes are a bit lower in some colors, so I wear it with this bra.

Racerback Dress in Red Persimmon & Pink Blossom

Moving on to tops…this colorful gingham plaid is quintessentially Summer and so cute paired with white. It buttons up the front and has an elastic band around the chest. It has the potential to look maternity though, so I’d steer clear if you’re large-chested.

Fit Tip: Top runs true to size, I’m wearing a 0. The jeans are my faves of the season, but size down one.

Madras Tank Blouse | Frayed Hem Jeans  | Similar Wedges

This eyelet cotton top is so fun and the peplum is a flirty and flattering touch. The material is really sturdy, but the large holes require a cami top. For that reason, the white or black was my favorite of the three colors available.

I’ve had my eye on these sandals for ages and Mr. SP insisted I splurge for our anniversary (likely because he’d splurged on something himself!!). I always have buyer’s remorse on bigger ticket items, but I don’t regret the purchase one single bit!!! They are so comfy, but really kick my outfits up a notch on the style meter. They come in a ton of colors, but I opted for the most nude/neutral shade for more versatility.

Fit Tip: It runs large…I’m wearing a regular XS and need to size down another.

Eyelet Peplum Top | Frayed Hem Jeans | Nude Flat Sandal (in color ‘Makeup’)

I love the look of off-the-shoulder tops, but don’t find them very practical for everyday life…one-shoulder tops, however, are my jam! You get to show a little shoulder (everyone has nice shoulders!), but not worry about losing your top or the sleeves riding up all day. This gingham is a crisp cotton poplin with a fun ruffle. The elastic is soft and stretchy for a snug fit.

Fit Tip: The top runs large, I’m wearing a regular XS, but need to size down.

Gingham One-Shoulder Top | Frayed Hem Jeans

Here’s the same top in white…it’s just so fresh and crisp I had to try it, too. It would be great with white jeans for an all-white outfit, or paired with any colorful or patterned shorts.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS, but would prefer one size down.

Poplin One-Shoulder Top | Frayed Hem Jeans

Two more fun tops we found…mine is a gauzy chambray with sweet embroidery and a slight peplum bottom. It’s a tad sheer, but not enough to require a cami. Mom’s top has a soft cotton bodice and a fun pleated peplum. I wish it came in more colors because it’s a fun one!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS petite, which is actually too short for my torso. A regular XS would be better. Mom is wearing a regular XS, for a good, but slightly longer length.

Embroidered Peplum Top  | Pleated Hem Top 

As you can see, the blue top in petite was a better fit on her shorter torso. The pleated peplum was a little big in the armholes for me since I’ve got a smaller chest.

Embroidered Peplum Top  | Pleated Hem Top

This top is your favorite, softest tee…but kickep up in the style department with a little peplum. It’s seriously pajama-soft.

Fit Tip: We’re both wearing XS petite.

Peplum Tee

This top is a sturdy waffle-knit cotton, with thick grosgrain-style straps for a bow-back. The neckline has a slight racerback shape that I love, and the bottom bells just enough. The image online makes it look like black and white stripes, but it’s more of a cream linen color. Just fyi.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS.

Striped Sweater Top with Bow Back

I’m don’t usually gravitate to graphic tees, but I loved the colors and ultra-soft material of this casual tee. I love the loose sleeve, too. And of course, these are hands-down the best dark wash jeans. They honestly feel like leggings…so soft and stretchy. The mid-rise is great for bending and squatting, too.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small shirt, but need an XS. The jeans are true to size.

Graphic Tee  | Favorite Mid-Rise Dark Jean

Mama SP didn’t believe me when I said these jeans were perfect…but she’s on board now!! Don’t they look great on her?!

Fit Tip: They run true to size, we’re both wearing a 26.

Striped Tank | Graphic Tee | Favorite Mid Rise Jeans

Moving on to the final categories…this entire outfit made us swoon. The top is a really thick cotton with darling bell sleeves and a little ruffle accent. It comes in a slew of gorgeous colors and is now on sale! The abstract skirt is the perfect a-line shape with an optional sash tie. I’m crazy about all the colors, and the material is sturdy enough to transition to Fall.

Fit Tip: The top is XS, and I’m wearing a 0P in the skirt, but a 2P would give me a little more breathing room in the waist. The petite length is perfect for 5’6″ and under.

Ruffle Sleeve Top | Graphic Skirt

Can you tell I adore this graphic print!? The shorts are made of the same thick, woven material as the skirt, and could easily be dressed up.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS top and a 2 in the shorts.

Ruffle Sleeve Top | Graphic Shorts

Here’s each outfit on Mama SP…she loved the top in black!

Fit Tip: We’re both wearing XS tops, my shorts are a 2, and her skirt is a 4P.

Ruffle Sleeve Top | Graphic Shorts | Graphic Skirt

She was actually hesitant to even try on the shorts, then ended up keeping them! I love the length on her, and the print makes them look a little dressier.

Fit Tip: We’re both wearing XS tops, my skirt is 0P, and her shorts are a 2.

Ruffle Sleeve Top | Graphic Shorts | Graphic Skirt

Speaking of shorts, I feel instantly in love with these chambray safari-style shorts. They are a cotton/linen blend with an optional sash tie and 4-inch inseam. They’ll go with virtually everything, and look cute with both wedges and flat sandals. The top is a soft cotton tee with embroidered sleeves. I think it’s intended to be worn off-the-shoulder, but I prefer it pulled up. Both are 50% off right now, too!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in both the tee and shorts.

Embroidered Tee | Chambray Shorts (half-off now!!)

Finally, this one-shoulder romper is a deep shade of red, with a fun tiered ruffle. It’s a flowy rayon material, but not too thin. The drawstring makes for a more custom fit based on your torso length and waist.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS. 

One-Shoulder Ruffle Romper

Now can we just pause and look at my stinking-cute mom! Happy birthday week, Mama Sugarplum!

Gingham Peplum Top (similar) | Palm Print Bag | Statement Necklace | Similar Espadrilles

I’m so thrilled ya’ll love these posts because we have an absolute ball doing them together!!

Okay, I think that’s enough for today! I do hope you found this post helpful, and maybe discovered some new goodies. What’s your favorite from this round of Dressing Room Diaries? You may want to check out the previous installment because many of the items featured are on sale! Happy holiday weekend, lovebugs!

Great Weekend Sales
Nordstrom // Huge seasonal clearance…including my all these sandals & this top.
Loft // 50% off absolutely everything! (This swing dress is Summer-perfection, but size down)
GAP // 40% off entire purchase with code SUMMER
Old Navy // Up to 60% off (hello, embroidered top!)
J.Crew // 20% off site wide with code SUMMER (dying for this maxi!)
J.Crew Factory // 40% off new arrivals (I’m looking at you, stripes!)
Colleen Rothschild // 20% off entire order with code PLUM20

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