Dressing Room Diaries

Cheers to Friday, friends, and the weekend ahead! We woke up in Colorado Springs this morning, and there are signs of Fall everywhere! We’re here for my darling cousin’s wedding, and excited for a weekend of family fun and exploring this darling town and gorgeous surrounding area. Let me know if you have any recommendations!

Today I’m excited to bring you an all-new Dressing Room Diaries, and not only is it a doozy, but I brought Mama Sugarplum with me for some! I kept finding myself near favorite stores, and there were too many cute new things not to share. But since I’ve increased the frequency of these posts (by reader request!), I have gotten a lot more selective about what I feature.

Used to, I’d share things that weren’t really my style, but I thought others might like. Now I stick with mostly items I adore and would wear myself. Hopefully that’s helpful for you!

Okay, 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.

You’ve seen these first few items already (in my last Dressing Room Diaries), but Mama Sugarplum was anxious to try them for herself. Let’s just say we have similar taste and she went home with a hefty shopping bag! First up this super cozy pullover with loose turtleneck. And when I say cozy, I mean the kind that makes you hug yourself when you slip it on. She’s turned her nose up at camo pants in the past, but I converted her with this pair! They are buttery soft and stretchy, and the camo print is subtle.

Fit Tip: We’re both wearing regular XS in the sweaters, and 26P in the pants. I opted for the petite length, as well, so they’d be cropped for booties.

Turtleneck Sweater | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots | Camo Cargo Twill Pants | Black Booties

This ribbed cotton cardigan is a bit more fitted through the body than usual oversized cardis, and the mid-length is perfect for all heights. It’s a nice weight for pairing with tees now, but thick enough to layer over collared shirts when it cools off more.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Ribbed Grandpa Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | Distressed Jeans | Booties

You can see it’s longer on Mom, but not overwhelming for her petite frame.

Fit Tip: She’s wearing an XS.

Ribbed Grandpa Cardigan | Camisole Tank | Distressed Jeans | Booties | Striped Tee | Skinny Jeans | Black Booties

We’re both fans of cowlnecks, and this one is fuzzy-soft with a fun high-low hem…making it perfect for jeans and leggings. It can be worn off the shoulders, or one shoulder…or as we prefer it, just as a loose cowlneck. It comes in a slew of colors, too.

Fit Tip: We’re both wearing reg XS.

Convertible Cowlneck High/Low Hem Top | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots | Skinny Jeans | Black Booties

I’ve actually owned this cotton pullover several weeks, and it’s been perfect for this transitional weather. The v-neck is just deep enough to avoid a cami, and will look cute layered over a plaid shirt.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

V-Neck Ribbed Sweater | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots

It was a hit with Mama SP, too, but she’d likely wear a cami since it dips lower on her shorter torso. (Sidenote: Her jeans are pretty much the only ones she wears anymore!! So soft and comfy.)

Fit Tip: We’re both wearing XS.

V-Neck Ribbed Sweater | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots | Skinny Jeans | Black Booties

Mom always insists we walk through the higher-end departments, and of course I had to try this pullover hoodie! It’s insanely cuddly plush and soft, in the sweetest shade of pale pink. I’m a sucker for the hood and pouch pocket, too.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small, which is an oversized fit, my usual XS would fit, too.

Hoodie Pullover | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots

Another luxe pullover, this one with a funnel neck and longer length. The color is a perfect olive, and the dropped shoulder gives it a relaxed fit. The cashmere just makes it yummy.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small, but need my usual XS.

Funnel Neck Sweater | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots

Funnel Neck Sweater | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots | Skinny Jeans | Black Booties

Funnel Neck Sweater | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots | Skinny Jeans | Black Booties

I like this top in theory…the stripes, funnel neck, tie sleeves…all super cute. But the waffle material isn’t as soft as I’d like, and the fit was a little cropped on me.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, but perhaps sizing up would give a better fit.

Tie-Sleeve Striped Pullover | Skinny Jeans | Booties

This crewneck had me at stripes and cashmere. Especially since it’s cashmere and under $100! (Hello, Christmas gifts!) The fit makes it great with jeans, but also easy to dress up with slacks or a skirt. And of course it’s soft enough to wear alone, but also thick enough for layering.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a reg. XS.

Cashmere Crewneck Sweater | Distressed Jeans | Black Booties

Can we talk about how stunning this cobalt is on her?!

Fit Tip: We’re both wearing reg. XS.

Cashmere Crewneck Sweater | Distressed Jeans | Skinny Jeans | Booties

I was on the fence about this one, but Mom insisted. After all, I love a fancy sweatshirt! The body is sweatshirt material, but the sleeves have a poplin peplum trim. It comes in several fun color combos, but it’s a bit of a boxy fit.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small, which is too big…I need my usual XS.

Bell Sleeve Striped Sweatshirt | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots

Bell Sleeve Striped Sweatshirt | Distressed Jeans | Skinny Jeans | Taupe Booties

I used to think all fleecy pullovers were the same, but after taking this puffer coat to Scandinavia, I’m sold on the power of Patagonia! It’s incredibly soft and comfortable, with a nice weight, but amazingly warm and insulating. Plus, it’s cute! #amiright But seriously, when you’re outside in real weather, these make all the difference in the world! This one has a sweater-knit exterior, and a moisture wicking fleece interior.

Fit Tip: I sized up to a small for more room through the body.

Half-Zip Pullover | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots

Another option is this snap-closure pullover, in Polartec thermal fleece. It fits closer to the body and has kangaroo hand-warmer pockets. It also packs fairly compact given the thickness of the fleece. These are usually my favorite brand of workout legging, but I didn’t care for the mesh band on these. The seam was a little scratchy and constricting.

Fit Tip: I sized up two to a medium in this one, but a small would fit, too. I’m wearing an XS legging, so maybe sizing up would make them more comfortable.

Snap Collar Pullover | Legging

Mom is wearing the sweater/fleece, but in jacket form, and I’m pretty sure she swooned and the warmth and comfort.

Fit Tip: She’s wearing a small.

Snap Collar Pullover | Legging | Zip-Up Jacket

This graphic tee is a fun take on collegiate shirts, making it sporty and cute. It’s soft and drapey with an oversized fit.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Graphic Sub Tee | Distressed Jeans | Similar Boots

Are you a turtleneck girl? I love them in Winter…there’s something a little dressy about them, and paired with dark jeans and a heel of some sort (pumps, booties, boots, etc), they look really pulled together. Plus, with the addition of earrings or a pendant necklace, they dress up easily. This merino wool is lightweight, but not scratchy, and comes in some beautiful dark colors. It’s really versatile for both work and weekend.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, but size up if you prefer a more relaxed fit. 

Merino Turtleneck | Skinny Jean | Knee Boots | Earrings

This flannel shirt is medium-weight and really soft, and I love the classic plaid of navy and green. It can be work out with jeans, layered under a vest, or even tucked into a skirt for a dressier look. I love the juxtaposition of casual plaid with pearls or bling.

Fit Tip: It’s a classic fit (not boyfriend), so true to size. I’m wearing an XS. 

Flannel Plaid Shirt | Skinny Jean | Knee Boots | Earrings

My love of utility jackets goes way back, but finding good ones isn’t easy! This one is a thick, structured cotton twill, with elastic cuffs, pockets, and perfect hip length. It also has a drawstring waist to give a custom, more feminine fit. It comes in tons of great colors (see the camo version styled here), and the perfect Fall jacket.

Fit Tip: I sized up to a small for more layering room.

Twill Utility Jacket | Striped Jersey Tee | Skinny Jean | Knee Boots | Earrings

I seem to add one of these quilted vests to my closet every year, and no surprise, this year it’s this deep burgundy. The color is so versatile, but you know I’m partial to pairing it with blush pink. It’s lightweight and thin, so it doesn’t add bulk. This striped tee is actually a drapey jersey knit tunic, and long enough for leggings!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in both.

Quilted Vest | Striped Jersey Tee | Skinny Jean | Knee Boots | Earrings

This puffer vest is thicker and super warm, and has the cutest faux-fur lined hood. The sweater is an old favorite, and a soft merino wool.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in the vest, and size up to a small in the sweater.

Faux-Fur Hooded Puffer Vest | Sweater | Pearl Cluster Necklace | Skinny Jean | Knee Boots | Earrings

Lots of fun going on with this top…stripes, ruffle and bell sleeves. It’s silky soft and super lightweight, with a wide round neck (but not boatneck).

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Striped Ruffle Tee | Denim Legging Jean | Peep Toe Bootie

The puffer vest adoration continues with this navy floral with a satin finish. It’s sporty, while still being super feminine. I’ve layered it over a cotton v-neck sweater.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in both the sweater and vest. The jeans are legging-style and you may want to size up!

Rounded V-Neck Sweater | Floral Puffer Vest | Denim Legging | Peep Toe Bootie

I was instantly smitten with this silky top, and was lucky to snag it at 40% off! It’s got little cap sleeves and a sweet ruffle detail…and hard to see in this pic, but it’s a gorgeous plum shade. I’ll pair it with jeans and skirts, and wear it alone and under cardigans.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Ruffle-Trim Blouse | White Jeans | Booties

I thought this was an awesome cowlneck sweater, until I saw online it’s intended to be an off-the-shoulder! I actually prefer it this way, and love the deep, relaxed neck. It also has the sweetest satin-covered buttons at the wrist, and is really soft.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Cowlneck/Off-the-Shoulder Sweater | White Jeans | Booties

This sweater vest is super thick and extra long, with a ribbed shawl collar. The weave is a combo of gray and white, and really neutral. It is long, so might not be a good length for petite frames. The long sleeve tee is soft and great for layering, but the white is a tad sheer on its own.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Sweater Vest | Essential Long-Sleeve Tee | White Jeans | Booties

I shared this dress with you last week, but I couldn’t resist trying it in other colors. It really does have a magical way of creating an hourglass figure and disguising the midsection. Plus, the hemline really elongates the legs.

Fit Tip: I size up for a less body-con fit, I’m wearing a small.

Long-Sleeve Ruched Dress

Here it is in navy, with knee boots.

Long-Sleeve Ruched Dress | Knee Boots

And finally, I never took myself for a choker-style girl, but totally fell for this ribbed sweater dress! It has a sassy vibe with the v-neck and choker, but balances it well with a knee length. It’s stretchy and thick, without hugging the body too close.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS and have plenty of room without it being shapeless.

Choker-Style Sweater Dress | Knee Boots

I love these shopping days with my mom so much…isn’t she just the cutest?! I surprised her with this new Fall tote from Barrington, and I wish you could hear her squeal! We love a good monogrammed tote. She wanted something smaller, so I got her the new St. Anne Petite in the modern leopard. Mine is the checkers print, with crimson and oxblood stripe, and blonde leather trim. (Use code SUGARPLUM10 for 10% off your own!)

Checkered Monogram Tote | Modern Leopard Monogram Mini-Tote

Okay, that does it 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? Mine have to be the choker dress, turtleneck sweater, quilted vest and cowlneck tunic. And of course the rushed dress. Be sure to check my last one for tons more new Fall pieces! Happy weekend, lovebugs!

P.S. Do you get my weekly newsletter, containing post previews, Q&As, and sale faves? Make sure you sign up here to receive it in your inbox tomorrow!

 

Great Weekend Sales
Nordstrom // Huge seasonal clearance …including these booties & my fave peacoat.
Loft // 40% off everything with code FRIENDS
Old Navy // 35% off everything (Go ahead & grab this jacket!)
J.Crew // 30% off sweaters
J.Crew Factory // Up to 60% off everything!