Dressing Room Diaries

Cheers to Friday, friends, and the weekend ahead! We don’t have a lot of plans, and I’m actually looking forward to the nothingness! The teenager takes the ACT exam for the first time tomorrow, yet another step in the direction of leaving me. I mean, college. Yay, college. #uglymomcry

I’m kidding, kind of. I’m so very proud and happy for him, but I get a lump in my throat literally every time I think about him moving out. This is just all moving too fast for my comfort level. But let’s change the subject before things get ugly.

Thanks so much for the love on this week’s posts! I’m thrilled you liked yesterday’s Galentine Party and Drugstore Beauty Buys, along with the style inspiration in Sweet & Sassy and Sugarplum Style. I always love hearing your feedback! (You can sign up for my daily posts and weekly newsletter here…so you never miss a post!)

Today I’m bringing you an all new Dressing Room Diaries, where I hunt down some of the cutest new arrivals from my favorite retailers, and review them for you. 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. Oh yeah, and my darling Mama Sugarplum joined me for the shopping trip, too!

Fit Note: I’m 5’4″-ish, 120 pounds-isa (depending on the week’s taco count), with a slight pear shape. My usual size is an XS/0. Mama Sugarplum is 5’1″, with an hourglass figure. We typically wear the same size, but she sometimes goes with petite.

With a new season just around the corner, the stores are jam-packed with tons of darling new things…so grab a big drank, because this post is a big one! Starting with this relaxed varsity tee…I have it from last year, and I was excited to see they brought it back in a ton of new color combinations. It’s a thick, soft cotton with slightly oversized shape.

Fit Tip: It runs large, but not enough to size down…I’m in an XS.

Striped Tee | White Jeans | Booties | Earrings

Mom is wearing an XS, as well, and you can see how it’s a nice, hip length for her.

Striped Tee | White Jeans | Booties | Earrings | Her Black Jeans

This little jacket reminds me of Chanel…without the Chanel price tag. It’s really well-made, in a fully-lined, sturdy fabric. The colors are navy and black, with white accents. It has a super feminine shape when worn zipped, but would be darling worn open with distressed jeans and a tee.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS

Tweed Fringe Jacket | White Jeans | Earrings

You know I love a good jean jacket, and this cutie came home with both Mom and me! It’s soft and super-stretchy, with a flattering fit through the shoulders and body. It’s perfectly shrunken, and looks so cute with skirts and dresses. And the best part about it being white (besides that it’s just so fresh!), is you can pair it with blue denim! This sleeveless blouse has a fun asymmetrical ruffle hem, and comes in several great patterns.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in both the jacket and blouse. If you have a large chest, you might want to size up in the blouse.

Asymmetrical Hem Blouse | White Jean Jacket | Dark Rinse Jeans

Tweed Fringe Jacket | White Jeans | Earrings | Asymmetrical Hem Blouse | White Jean Jacket | Dark Rinse Jeans

Mom loved these dark ankle jeans, as well. They have a built-in waist panel that holds you in, while sitting comfortably at your natural waist. They’re also a dark rinse with no distressing, and lots of stretch.

Fit Tip: She’s wearing a 2P in the jeans, and XS in top and jacket. 

Tweed Fringe Jacket | White Jeans | Earrings | Asymmetrical Hem Blouse | White Jean Jacket | Dark Rinse Jeans

I shared this moto jacket with you last DRD, but I’m so obsessed with it, I had to show you again…and get Mom to try it, too! I love the almost-peplum bottom for creating a flattering shape, not to mention, it’s super feminine.

Fit Tip: I size up one to a small. If you never zip your jacket, there’s no need to size up, since it’s mostly a little small through the torso, not the arms.

Faux Leather Moto Jacket | Distressed Jeans | Earrings

It has a feminine shape even when worn open.

Faux Leather Moto Jacket | Distressed Jeans | Earrings | Striped Tee | Dark Rinse Jeans

I could have a closet full of pink sweaters, and it wouldn’t be too many. I love the soft shape of this cotton sweater with the slight blouson sleeve, offset with the sporty stripes.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Striped Sweater (up to 40% off) | White Jeans | Leopard Flats | Earrings

I have this sweatshirt in gray, but had to see if the other colors were just as cute. Yep, they are! I love pairing mine with jeans and sneakers, or shorts and flip flops. I even wear it over my workout clothes.

Fit Tip: It runs large…this is an XS, so you might want to size down.

Off-the-Shoulder Sweatshirt | Earrings | Jeans | Booties

I was so excited about this top…a soft cotton, sweatshirt material with darling stripes and lace-up sides, but it runs a little too big for my frame. It’s long enough for leggings in my usual size, but the arms were too long.

Fit Tip: Definitely size down, I’m in an XS

Side-Tie Sweatshirt | High-Waist Dark Jeans | Earrings

This sweater has a bit of a throwback vibe to the early days of J.Crew, but with an updated button style on the sides. It’s soft and warm, and a bit on the cropped side.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

Side-Button Sweater (also here) | High-Waist Dark Jeans| Earrings

This top is so much cuter in person than on the website! The material is thick, and beautifully-lined, in the perfect shade of light blush pink. The pearls are sturdy, but not heavy, and theres a bit of a cap sleeve. I’d wear it with a skirt or slacks for work, or dressed up even more for a party.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2, and had enough room through the body I could have sized down. 

Pearl Accent Top | White Jeans | Booties | Earrings

The item that had us both swooning the most?! This ruffle neck sweater! It’s a pricey one, but dang it’s cute!! The sweater is a lightweight merino wool, with built-in pleated ruffle at the neck and cuffs.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2, but would probably go with a 1 (my store didn’t have many sizes left!).

Ruffle Collar Sweater | White Jeans | Booties | Earrings

I predict Mama Sugarplum is going to see this pic, and promptly click over and buy it!! Hey Mom, sharing is caring. 😉

Pearl Accent Top | Ruffle Collar Sweater | White Jeans | Her Black Jeans | Booties | Earrings

Ruffle Collar Sweater | Pearl Accent Top | White Jeans | Her Black Jeans | Booties | Earrings

Ruffles are everywhere this season, and I’m not one bit mad about it. I love all the feminine details! This pullover is really soft and perfectly relaxed, with a great ruffle-lined v-neck. It comes in three really hard-to-choose colors, and 30% off!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Ruffle V-Neck Sweater (30% off!) | High-Waist Dark Jeans| Earrings

This peplum top would be fun for a night out (imagine clean hair and statement earrings)! It’s a really thick knit with a tiered peplum hem. It does dip really low in the front, so it’s best suited for small chests that don’t need a full bra. It’s thick enough to provide coverage and a little support. It comes in a great red, ,too.

Fit Tip: It runs small, I’m in an XS and would probably size up.

Tiered Peplum Top | Mid-Rise Ankle Jeans | Earrings

Does this top make you ready for Spring, or what?! Adorable window pane pattern, with full ruffle sleeve and just-enough v-neck. It’s a linen-blend, which gives it a nice relaxed fit. And it’s only $15 with code ‘SWEET’.

Fit Tip: I sized up one to a small, mostly so I could dry it.

Ruffled Linen Top (on sale!) | Leopard Belt | White Jeans | Earrings

This cotton sweater has a large weave and super-soft feel, with great Spring color stripes. The hem is a bit asymmetrical, and thick cuffs make a comfortable fit on the arms. Mama SP gave her signature giggle when she tried this on one (which always signals it’s coming home with her!).

Striped Sweater | Dark Wash Ankle Jeans

How cute is this tee?! It’s incredibly soft with a cuffed sleeve. It’d be so cute with a skirt and jean jacket, or just shorts and sandals.

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

J’Adore Coffee Graphic Tee | White Jeans | Leopard Flats | Earrings

Military jackets are wardrobe staples in my opinion, and this one has a cool moto vibe. The olive green is a great neutral, and the style gives your outfits a bit of an edge.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

Olive Moto Jacket | Black Sweater | White Jeans | Leopard Flats | Earrings

Now let’s move on to dresses…this ruffled wrap dress is absolutely darling…for someone 5’2″ and under! Or maybe 20 years younger! It’s lightweight and flirty with three-quarter sleeves and a flattering fit, but unfortunately was a wee bit too short for my comfort zone.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 4.

Ruffle Wrap Dress | Nude Pumps

This fit-and-flare fits beautifully and looks extremely high-end in person. I love the sleeve length and skirt detail, and the back dips down just a bit for a really pretty silhouette. The  material is thick and stretchy, but the skirt isn’t stiff.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Fit and Flare Dress

This floral day dress has a subtle a-line shape, making it both flattering and forgiving. I tend to steer away from large patterns, but this one doesn’t overwhelm a petite frame, and the shades of blue are so lovely. You could dress it up with pumps, or make it more casual with a jean jacket and sandals.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular 2.

Floral A-Line Dress

The cobalt dress was a little snug on Mama SP, so if you have a larger chest, I’d recommend sizing up one.

Fit and Flare Dress | Floral A-Line Dress

The floral one fit her great, and she promptly did her little giggle and dressing room dance!

Fit and Flare Dress | Floral A-Line Dress

This t-shirt dress is the perfect casual transition to Spring, and so comfy! It’s a thick, stretchy cotton knit (thick enough to smooth over lumps and bumps!), and comes in two darling stripe options. I’d wear it with sandals and sneakers, and of course a jean or military jacket. It’s only $19 with code ‘SWEET’.

Fit Tip: Both the XS and Small fit me, it just depends on the fit you prefer. This is the XS, which hugs my shape a little.

Striped T-Shirt Dress (on sale!) | Earrings

And here it is again in red and white stripes, this one a size small.

Striped T-Shirt Dress | Earrings

You know my favorite camo jacket? Well, it’s back…and in a ton of awesome solid colors, too. Including this perfect blush pink! #swoon You’d be hard-pressed to find a better utility jacket for the money…it’s a thick cotton twill, with adjustable waist and elastic cuffs. It also washes and dries well. Use code ‘SWEET’ and it’s $27!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small.

Twill Utility Jacket (extra 20% off!) | Striped T-Shirt Dress | Earrings

Back to fancier dresses…this jeweled collar swing dress would be amazing for Spring and Summer weddings! It’s a deep navy blue with a thick body-hugging under layer, and sheer, swingy top layer. Add a cuff and some strappy nude sandals, and you’re ready!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2.

Jewel Collar Trapeze Dress

I felt like Claire Underwood in this dress, and I kind of liked it! The stacked ruffles are fun, but also create the illusion of a smaller bottom half. #goals It’s a deep, rich navy blue, and a thick stretchy material that hugs the body. It dips quite a bit, but I was able to wear my usual bra with it.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2.

Ruffle Shoulder Dress | Earrings

Jewel Collar Swing Dress| Ruffle Shoulder Dress | Earrings

Jewel Collar Swing Dress| Ruffle Shoulder Dress | Earrings

Two things worth noting about this dress…1) Mama SP made me try it on, 2) Apparently you’re supposed to wear it off-the-shoulder. Of course she was right, I adore the dress! And I think I prefer it worn as a boatneck anyway! It’s a thick, stretchy sweater knit (super tight weave), with a cotton flounce hem. And as if the navy stripes didn’t have me, the little red cuff seals the deal.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

Striped Sweater Dress

The prettiest little dress for work and church…this fit and flare has the sweetest tulip sleeve and little gold button details. The darts at the chest and waist create a flattering fit, and the drapey material has lovely movement.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS, and it was a little big.

Fit and Flare Dress with Tulip Sleeve| Earrings

We can’t have a DRD without sharing our favorite pajama finds…and these were hands-down the best of the day! Silky soft jersey knit, in the cutest patterns and combos. I was partial to the navy with white piping. They feel so amazing, I can’t believe I haven’t found them before!

Fit Tip: They are a generous fit, so I sized down to an XXS.

Jersey Knit Pajama Set | Earrings

Mama SP has a larger chest, so she stuck with an XS.

Jersey Knit Pajama Set | Earrings

And finally (are you still with me?!)…I kind of hit the jeans jackpot with several new styles, and I’m excited to share them.

Up first are these high-rise ankle jeans. Super soft with lots of stretch, and just thick enough to make you feel held in, but not so thick they’re stiff. The length is cropped with an exposed hem…so cute for sandals and wedges soon. The high rise fits just below the belly button, and the waist hugs all the way around (no gaping in the back). They are extremely comfortable with a dark rinse and no distressing.

Fit Tip: I sometimes size down in this brand, but given the high rise, I stuck with my usual size. #nocamels

Striped V-Neck | High Rise Jeans | Earrings

Up next are these mid-rise distressed jeans. They’re a little longer, but have an exposed hem and easy to cuff to your desired length. (See my tips for cuffing jeans here.) The mid-rise is extremely comfortable, and these are super soft and stretchy. They feel like jeans you’ve owned your whole life, and I wore them three days straight after bringing them home.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing my usual 26 here, but they did stretch out after a few wears. 

Striped V-Neck | Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans | Earrings

And finally, these jeans feel more like leggings…or pajamas. They’re fairly thin (a great weight for Spring and Summer), with a raw, ankle-length hem. There’s no distressing or holes, and I love the light wash.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing my usual 26, and they were a little snug through the crotch and thighs.

Striped V-Neck | Light Wash Jeggings | Earrings

Wowza, I told you that was a doozy! And I actually found tons more, but it was just too much for a single post, so stay tuned for the rest of our recent shopping trip next week.

Okay, that’s it for today! I do hope you found it helpful, and maybe discovered some new goodies and styling ideas! And see below for the latest sales happening today, like 40% off my new fave sweater and 20% off my go-to skincare products. What’s your favorite from this round of Dressing Room Diaries? Happy weekend, lovebugs!

{Great Weekend Sales}
NORDSTROM // Huge 40% off seasonal sale, including 40% off tons of Zella & Kate Spade
LOFT // Extra 40% off sale items
OLD NAVY // Extra 20% off everything, code SWEET
J.CREW // 30% off sweet faves (like my fave crewneck), code XOXO
J.CREW FACTORY // 50-60% off everything, gimme these ruffles!

 

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