Dressing Room Diaries

Cheers to almost-Friday, friends, and the long weekend ahead! It’s only been two weeks of school, but my kids are already in need of a day of rest. Their days are long, and I think it takes awhile for them to rebuild that school stamina! We’re also going to take advantage of the extra day, and volunteer for the Dallas shelters. I’m finding it hard to resume life and business as usual in the wake of these devastating events, so giving back helps me find some balance.

I thought many of you might be getting a jump on your weekend, plus, tons of great sales have already started, so I’m bringing you the latest round of Dressing Room Diaries a day early! It’s been awhile since we’ve had one, and I’m quite smitten with pretty much everything I found!

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. My usual size is XS/0.

I’m always asked which pieces were my favorites, or what did I actually keep for myself (you know I’m not actually buying all this, right?!?), so I thought I’d kick this round off with my favorites of the batch…starting with this ruffle collar sweatshirt! I mean, this makes my preppy-loving heart so happy…the plaid paired with a feminine ruffle! The collar is actually detachable (it buttons off and on), but the cuffs stay put. It also comes in the most darling navy and seersucker combo.

Fit Tip: The top is a thinner sweatshirt material, so not bulky, and runs true to size. I’m wearing XS.

Ruffle Collar Sweatshirt | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans (50% off!) | Sandals

How can you deny the cuteness power of peplum? You can’t, that’s how. I love simple, soft tees paired with jeans, and this one adds a bit more flare with the ruffle trim. Jazz it up with a fun necklace, or pair it with blue, gray and black jeans. It’s also a great transition piece for Fall, and comes in other fun colors and stripes (as featured in my last Faves Under $50 post).

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS.

Peplum Tee | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans (50% off!) | Sandals

I actually already own this top in blue (from last year!), and wore it with everything from jeans to athletic pants. It’s fleecy soft and feels like PJs, but looks so darling with the little twist front. It gives the illusion of a half-tuck, without the bulk, and it’s long enough to cover your bum.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS.

Twist-Front Fleecy Top | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans (50% off!) | Peep-Toe Booties

I must have cozy on the mind, because I had to try this polka-dot sweatshirt, too. It’s a little shorter than the other one (which you can’t tell since I tucked it in #doh), but the collar is detachable, too. I found this one hard to pull over my head, but maybe I have an unusually large cranium! The are high-waisted with a cropped flare leg…Mr. SP adored them, but I’m on the fence!! I think they have a lot of potential with a fitted top and wedge heel!

Fit Tip: Sweatshirt is true to size, I’m wearing XS, but size down in the jeans.

Ruffle Collar Polka Dot Sweatshirt | Cropped Wide Leg Jeans

Mr. SP started singing ‘She’s a Maniac’ when I put this sweatshirt on #flashdance, but begged me to keep it! It can be worn off both shoulders, just one shoulder, or as a cowlneck. It has a banded waist and slight dolman sleeve…and feels like your favorite sweatshirt you’ve had since ninth grade.

Fit Tip: True to size, I’m wearing XS. 

Off-the-Shoulder Sweatshirt | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans (50% off!) | Sandals

This tee is super soft and extra thick, but the overall proportions are too big for my frame…its long in the torso and arms, and I’d prefer it more fitted throughout. Maybe sized down would help.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Ruffle Sleeve Tie Tee | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans (50% off!) | Sandals

It’s hard to see in these photos, but this sleeveless pullover has a wide waffle weave and full cowlneck. It’s soft enough to wear alone, but equally cute layered over a long sleeve. It’s a great transitional piece, and might even be long enough for leggings on some of you (I have a long torso).

Fit Tip: Runs true, I’m wearing XS. But if you prefer it shorter, petite sizing is available.

Sleeveless Cowlneck Sweater | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans (50% off!) | Sandals

I have this crewneck sweater in a few colors…it seems I add a new one to my closet each year! (See it styled in pink here.) It’s a thin merino wool (but not sheer) and is great worn alone or layered over collared shirts. It also easily dresses up or down, making it a great staple piece for work and weekends.

Fit Tip: I prefer it a bit more relaxed, so I size up to a small.

Crewneck Sweater | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans (50% off!) | Peep-Toe Booties

What’s with me and the sassy shoulder? It’s a fun way to show a little skin, but not too revealing or over the top. This poncho is a soft, nubby material (nubby is a material, right?!), and I love the creamy color and asymmetrical hem. It also has arms, so you aren’t flapping around like a T-Rex under it!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS/S.

Marled Boucle Poncho | Dark Slim Jeans | Similar Booties

I’m always drawn to stripes, and this tee is a combo of soft neutral and a shimmer gold stitch. You need to look closely to see it, so it’s not flashy, and the slight bell sleeve adds a bit more fun to it. Let’s talk about the jeans for a second, too…they look black in the photos, but are actually a super dark denim rinse, with no distressing or bold stitching. They fit comfortably at the mid-waist so there’s no gapping at the back, and the pockets are well-placed. They are a great, flattering jean for so many outfit combinations.

Fit Tip: Tee runs true, I’m wearing an XS, but I did size down one in the jeans. They’re tight at first, but give pretty quickly. 

Striped Shimmer Tee | Dark Slim Jeans | Similar Booties

This blouse has several fun details, besides the soft blush pink and floral print. The flowy top has a unique bar-back opening, and roll-tab sleeves. It’s also thicker than you’d expect, so there’s a bit more sturdiness to it.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS.

Floral Blouse | Dark Slim Jeans | Similar Booties

Anthro really should help a girl out with better dressing room lighting!! This super-soft cotton tee has a slight gathered shoulder, and pearl-trim neckline…giving the whole thing an elevated, feminine vibe. The jeans are a great (although pricey) option, and love the extra stretch and the faux front pockets!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS top and 26 jeans…both are true.

Pearl-Trim T-Shirt | White Jeans

I spotted this fun top online and had to try it for myself. It’s definitely got a lot going on, with the ruffle sleeves and extra-long wrap, but it would be so fun paired with long black pants and high heels. The extra fabric might be a bit much for petite girls, and keep in mind it’s slightly cropped.

Fit Tip: It runs small, I sized up one.

Ruffle Wrap Shirt | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans (50% off!) | Peep-Toe Booties

Another great Fall and transitional piece…this crewneck pullover is cashmere under $100! Super soft worn alone or layered, and available in tons of colors. I’m wearing it with my favorite distressed jeans (mid-rise!), and cute peeptoe booties (also perfect for transitional weather!).

Fit Tip: Sweater and jeans are true (I’m wearing XS and 26), but I’d recommend sizing down half in the booties.

Cashmere Crewneck Sweater | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans (50% off!) | Peep-Toe Booties

I have this sweater in gray from last year, and I wore the heck out of it! It’s actually more of a fuzzy tee than an actual sweater…sort of a soft jersey knit meets fleece. How’s that for a descriptor? Basically it’s crazy soft, stretchy, with the right about of deep v-neck. It’s long enough for leggings, and cute with a little half-tuck.

Fit Tip: If you’re between sizes, or you prefer a slim fit, size down one.

V-Neck Fleecy Top | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans (50% off!) | Peep-Toe Booties

Moving on to dresses…my favorite category! We’re attending a wedding in Colorado next month, so I’ve been on the hunt for a Fall-appropriate dress as a wedding guest. The hunt has been fun, and while I’m still undecided, I’ve found several great options…starting with this tiered, ruffled cutie! I love the three-quarter sleeve and longer hem length (appropriate for both Fall and church), plus the color and ruffle hem are so fun! The blush pink heels are a fresh twist on a traditional nude shoe, but just as versatile.

Fit Tip: The dress is true, I’m wearing a 2, but I did size down half in the shoes.

Lace Bell Sleeve Ruffle Dress | Pink Suede Pumps

The lace trend is still running strong, and this sheath dress manages to be both conservative and subtly sexy! Obviously I’m cuckoo for the color, and the stretchy lining makes it comfy and easy to move. The back is slightly lower with an exposed zipper giving it even more pizazz. It also comes in a slew of amazing colors, with crazy numbers of 5-star reviews.

Fit Tip: Runs true, I’m wearing a regular 2, but petite sizing is available if you prefer shorter lengths. 

Lace Sheath Dress | Pink Suede Pumps

Ohmyword, enough with the blues already!? But it’s such a great option for Fall, and universally flattering. This lace overlay is a bit more delicate, with illusion across the chest (requiring a strapless bra or my fave stick-ons), and sheer arms. I love the flattering fit-and-flare silhouette, too.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2. 

Lace Illusion Dress | Pink Suede Pumps

I love everything about this dress…pleated skirt, lace bodice, asymmetrical hemline…except the color. Well actually, I love the color, but don’t think it works with my coloring. Too bad, because I could dance the night away in this lovely dress.

Fit Tip: It’s true to size, I’m wearing XS.

Pleated Lace Dress | Similar Sandals

I have this sassy midi dress in red (see it here), and wanted to give it a go in black since it’s such a complement magnet. It’s incredibly slimming and really elongates the frame, and I love the sturdy material for keeping things nipped and tucked. I’d probably save this for parties instead of weddings, but I’m conservative like that!

Fit Tip: Either this year’s dress is cut smaller, or my taco count has been too high lately, but I couldn’t get this XS zipped! So I’d recommend sizing up one, especially if you’re busty.

Lace Midi Dress | Similar Sandals

The navy blue obsession continues with this gorgeous fit-and-flare option. Adore the sleeves and pockets, and of course the shape is totally in my wheelhouse. This dress feels the most sturdy and well-constructed of the bunch. The waist falls a bit above my natural waistline, so it’s a good option if you have a short torso.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular 2. The petite size would have been a miniskirt on me, and I’m not tall!

Lace Fit-and-Flare Dress | Similar Sandals

Moving on from wedding dresses (expect more to come in the next few weeks!!), this embroidered skirt is stunning in person…the blush pink and stitching is perfect. I paired it with a tee for a more relaxed combo. You remember my zhushing tips, right?!

‘Salut’ Tee | Embroidered Skirt

I adore this ruffle tiered dress, and was especially surprised since I don’t consider myself much for orange. But the shade is spot-on for transitioning, and flattering for both brunettes and blondes! It’s darling with a jean jacket or long cardigan, and sandals or booties. Hurry, because it’s under $35 right now!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS, but petite and tall sizes are available.

Floral Tiered Dress

This dress was my back-up when I appeared on Good Morning Texas…I was concerned the other dress might be too busy on-camera. Turns out the floral was fine, but I’m kind of disappointed I didn’t have the chance to wear this cutie!! I’m crazy for the vibrant pink, and the back is crazy cute and flattering. It also happens to be on super sale now!

Fit Tip: It’s true and I’m wearing an XS.

Pink Racerback Dress (on sale!) | Similar Sandals

And finally, as much as I love Summer, this blush pink moto jacket gave me my first twinges of Fall fever! I was shocked to find it under $130…it easily looks three times as expensive in person. The faux leather is thick, and well-fitted through the shoulders and torso.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS, and theres a little room for layering under.

Pink Moto Jacket | Dark Slim Jeans | Similar Booties

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? Did you see a winning dress for a Fall wedding?

You may want to check out the previous installment because many of the items featured are on sale! And don’t worry, Mama Sugarplum will join me in the dressing room next round! Happy holiday weekend, lovebugs, and continued love and prayers to the Texas coast. xo. C.

Great Weekend Sales
Nordstrom // Huge seasonal clearance…including this dress & these fave jeans.
Loft // Extra 50% off all sale! (This swing dress is Summer-perfection, but size down)
GAP // Up to 50% off + 20% more with code GETMORE
Old Navy // 40% off everything! (Go ahead & grab another of these!)
J.Crew // 40% sale with code HELLOSALE (dying for this cami!)
J.Crew Factory // 50% off everything (I’m looking at you, floral!)
Colleen Rothschild // 20% off entire order with code LABORDAY

{Shop my Dressing Room Faves}