Dressing Room Diaries

How was your weekend, friends? We had a good combo of mellow and busy, and it was exactly what we needed. After such a busy week, it’s nice to have no plans, right!?

Today it’s time for another round of Dressing Room Diaries, where I hunt down some of the cutest new arrivals from my favorite retailers, and review them for you. Since it’s the overwhelming favorite, I decided to run it a little more frequently than once a month. For those of you who prefer to skip it, don’t worry, it’s not going to be a weekly series, but I hope to bring you one every two to three weeks moving forward.

You know the drill with Dressing Room Diaries, the shots aren’t good, the lighting is bad, my hair is usually past it’s expiration, 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. And occasionally I sweet-talk my darling Mama Sugarplum into joining me to show her take on things.

Fit Note: I’m 5’4″-ish, 120 pounds-ish, with a slight pear shape. Mama Sugarplum is 5’1″, with an hourglass figure. Our usual size is XS/0.

I already own this top in black, but I wanted to show how the ruffle trend translates to an older generation. It looks darling on mom, and I could see it easily transition to work with a black pencil skirt or slacks.

Fit Tip: For a closer fit like we’re wearing, size down. We’re both in XXS. I think the top looks better more fitted than slouchy.

Ruffle Sweater | Similar Distressed Jeans | Wedge Booties | Bootcut Jeans | Taupe Bootie

This sweater comes in a bajillion colors and patterns, but we’re both partial to stripes. I think it’s better-suited with workwear, or dressed-up denim, and is a great weight for layering under blazers and jackets.

Fit Tip: It runs small, and we both sized up to a small. You can see it’s a bit short on my frame, but regular sizing (as opposed to petite) was great for mom.

Striped Sweater | Similar Distressed Jeans | Gray Bootie | Bootcut Jeans | Taupe Bootie

This sweater has a touch of cashmere, making it look and feel quite luxe…especially for the price! It comes in tons of colors, and has a nice relaxed, and slightly longer fit. It’s soft enough to wear alone, but stretches to accommodate a layered shirt.

Fit Tip: Go with your regular size for a slim fit, or size up one (like we did) for a relaxed feel.

Crewneck Sweater | Similar Distressed Jeans | Gray Bootie | Bootcut Jeans | Taupe Bootie

We’re both a little hot-natured, but also love wearing layers…that’s where lightweight cardis like this come in handy! It’s a stretchy knit that feels like t-shirt material, and drapes beautifully, but really only thick enough to layer over a tee or cami. You could throw it on now with jeans, and later with dresses.

Fit Tip: It’s true to size, and both of us are wearing XS.

Open-Front Drape Cardigan | Long Tee | Camisole Tank | Similar Distressed Jeans | Gray Bootie | Bootcut Jeans | Taupe Bootie

I love a good fair isle, but don’t always want to look like I’m hitting the slopes. This pink and blue combo is super feminine, with cute cuffs and neck. The turtleneck doesn’t fold over, so it’s not overly bulky.

Fit Tip: It runs true (even for wool!), and I’m wearing an XS

Fair Isle Sweater | Dark Jegging Jeans | Gray Bootie

I had high-hopes for this sweater…the slouchy fit, the oatmealy color, the relaxed turtleneck. But while it looks cute, it felt too billowy around the torso. It’s almost like it needs to either be a little longer, or a little tighter. I wish Mama SP had tried it, I’d love to see if it fits a petite frame better.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Slouchy Turtleneck Sweater | Dark Jegging Jeans | Cognac Block-Heel Booties

The hunt for over-the-knee boots continues, and while I liked the style of these flat boots, they felt awkward around my knees. So far, these are my favorites, but I’ve got a few more on order to try out. As for the sweater, I didn’t swoon over it, but it’s a great budget option with tons of colors available.

Fit Tip: Sweater runs true, and I’m wearing an XS. I think I might like the fit better if I sized up.

Funnelneck Sweater | Dark Jegging Jeans | Over-the-Knee Flat Boots

Okay, I like the sweater better in this color (obviously I had high-hopes for it since I ordered two to try), but it’s still a little too cropped for my liking. Maybe sizing up would correct that. I’m also alone in my feelings because it’s got great reviews! I also tried out these black booties and loved the streamlined shape (not clunky at all).

Funnelneck Sweater | Dark Jegging Jeans | Black Flat Bootie

I’m a recent convert to Hunter boots, but I know there’s a little sticker-shock that comes with them, so I wanted to find some more affordable options for y’all. These are actually Ugg boots, with a shearling-lining in the footbed, and half the price! They’re a little shorter and slimmer than Hunters, but comfy to wear with fun patterns.

Fit Tip: The boots only come in whole sizes, so size down. I wear a 7.5, and the 7s fit great.

Chunky Drape Cardigan | Favorite White Tee | Dark Jegging Jeans | Leopard Rainboot

Swing dresses are great for all-seasons since they easily transition with a jacket and tights. This one has cute front pockets and a thick waffle weave.

Fit Tip: The arms run small, so my usual XS was uncomfortable through the underarms and shoulders, but sizing up would make it too shapeless through the body. I actually prefer the fit and feel of this one.

Mockneck Swing Dress | Black Booties

This quilted faux-leather skirt is edgy and chic with a full-aline shape and pockets, and would transition for work and evening. I paired it with a ruffle top to show the feminine side.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 0 in the skirt, and while it took some effort to get it past my hips, it’s most flattering when fitted on your natural waist.

Ruffle Shirt | Faux Leather Skirt (on sale!) | Patent Pumps

Pink + stripes are always going to catch my eye. This tee is a thick knit with a slight boatneck, but not a lot of stretch. It comes in a few color options, but this fresh combo was my fave.

Fit Tip: With the minimal stretch, this XS felt a little snug through the arms, so I’d recommend sizing up one for a relaxed fit.

Striped Tee | Similar Distressed Jeans | Cognac Block-Heel Booties

These Dressing Room Diaries are good for me, too, in that I’m encouraged to look at items I wouldn’t normally be drawn to…like this crochet yoke top. And I loved it! It’s super soft and drapey, with fun detail (that magically still hides bra straps!).

Fit Tip: The top is generously sized, but meant to be relaxed, so I’d say it’s true to size.

Crochet Yoke Tee | Similar Distressed Jeans | Cognac Block-Heel Booties

This sweater with the rolled funnel neck is soft, stretchy and super adorable. I like the longer length, and while I’d normally gravitate to the black and white stripe version, I love the combo of blues.

Fit Tip: This one is the perfect combo of relaxed, but not shapeless, so it doesn’t overwhelm your frame. I’m wearing an XS and it’s a comfortable fit all over.

Funnelneck Striped Sweater | Similar Distressed Jeans | Cognac Block-Heel Booties

Whomever invented this SignatureSoft line deserves a medal. Or at least a cookie. It’s basically pajamas disguised as street clothes. And obviously these booties are my latest obsession because I’ve worn them almost daily! The block heel makes them almost as comfy as a flat boot, but with the added height! Plus, they’re on sale for under $60! #winning I love the rich cognac tone, too. 

Fit Tip: The top runs true, and I’m wearing an XS. If you want it for leggings though, you may want to size up for a bit more length. The boots run a tad small, so I sized up half-size.

SignatureSoft Cowlneck Tunic | Dark Jegging Jeans | Cognac Block-Heel Booties

These utility blouses are so versatile…perfect with slacks or a skirt for work, or with bootcut jeans and heels for a night out. It even works dressed way down with skinny jeans and boots. I have several solid colors, but this pretty print caught my eye.

Fit Tip: They are true, and I wear a regular XS.

Patterned Utility Blouse | Dark Jegging Jeans | Cognac Block-Heel Booties

I included this oversized hoodie in my recent Finds Under $50, so I wanted to try it first-hand…and it did not disappoint! The lining is extra fuzzy and soft, and I love the bright color options. It’s cute with jeans or workout clothes, and one of those sweatshirts you’d reach for often.

Fit Tip: It’s oversized and thick, and I’m wearing an XS.

Soft Oversized Hoodie | Lightwash Mid-Rise Jeans | Sneakers

This cowlneck poncho drapes beautifully, and is pure cashmere (and on sale 40% off!). It comes in four great neutrals and transforms your basic outfit of tee and boots to uber-chic.

Fit Tip: It’s one size, and long enough for leggings on me. The description says fits size 2-16.

Long Tee | Cowlneck Poncho | Lightwash Mid-Rise Jeans | Cognac Block-Heel Booties

Another poncho option, this one made of traditional cotton sweater material. I love the color and turtleneck, but I always feel awkward in ponchos with no arms!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing the XS/S

Cableknit Poncho | Long Tee | Lightwash Mid-Rise Jeans | Cognac Block-Heel Booties

Another slouchy funnel neck option, this one with a fun mixed material pattern, and dropped shoulders. It’s not very long, so taller girls may find it short. But it is super soft, and can be worn without a layer.

Fit Tip: I always size up in this brand, and I’m wearing a 4.

Slouchy Turtleneck | Lightwash Mid-Rise Jeans | Cognac Block-Heel Booties

Dresses are my favorites, so I love trying them out for this series…and the girlier the better! I’m getting more comfortable with these body-conscious shapes, but this one felt too revealing for my comfort level. I prefer this one from this Date Night Style post.

Fit Tip: I usually size up in this brand, and I’m wearing a Small.

Crochet Overlay Dress | Patent Pumps

I did, however, adore this one! It’s definitely sexier than my usual, with the slim fit and exposed shoulders, but the longer length and fully-covered torso doesn’t leave me feeling too exposed. I love that is super flattering, and sexy, without being trashy at all. And hello, perfect for Valentine’s Day!

Fit Tip: I’m a bit in-between sizes…this XS is a tad snug, but the S was definitely too big. The material has some give to it, so I think it stretches a bit to fit your body.

Crochet Overlay Midi Dress | Patent Pumps

Another fun Valentine’s option, this one less revealing and flirtier. The tiers have fun movement, and the tie at the neck so cute with your hair pulled back. The color is a soft pink, but not overly sweet, so it’s a good dress for year-round, especially Summer weddings.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular 0, the petite was too short for me.

Tiered Tie-Neck Dress | Patent Pumps

I’ve had requests for jumpsuit options, and this is the first one I’ve found worth recommending. I love the high neck and wide legs…and of course pockets! Plus, the fun back…which makes the jumpsuit sassy, but still fairly conservative. It’d be cute for Valentine’s Day with leopard heels and a pink or red clutch.

Fit Tip: I stuck with my usual size, XS, because you want a close fit so you’re not overwhelmed by fabric. The length is still a tad long, but easily hemmed. 

Wide Leg Jumpsuit | Patent Pumps

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! I can’t stop thinking about these last three Valentine’s Day options…of the red lace, pink tiers, and black pantsuit, which is your favorite? Have a joyful Monday, friends!