Dressing Room Diaries

How was your weekend, friends? We did a whole lot of nothing, and it was perfect. I did manage to get the laundry done, groceries bought, and house cleaned, so I feel like I could conquer the world right now. Why is it such a great feeling to start a new week with all that done?!

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. You know the drill, the shots aren’t good, the lighting is bad, my hair is usually past it’s expiration (seriously, it’s bad in some of these!!), 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 today I sweet-talked my darling Mama Sugarplum into joining me to show her take on things, so let’s get to the fun!

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.

We obviously had our sights set on Spring, because we were drawn to all the bright and lightweight tops, especially this off-the-shoulder number. It stays comfortably put on the arms, without overwhelming you with billows of fabric (like most tops this style). It’s will be darling with white jeans and wedges a few months from now, don’t you think?!

Fit Tip: We both sized up to a small, so I think it runs a tad small…which is unusual for this brand.


Off-the-Shoulder Top | Similar Distressed Jeans | Gray Booties | Dark Jeans | Knee Boots

Ruffles are big this Spring, and if everything is as cute as this top, I’m game! It’s a soft, stretchy t-shirt material, with crisp cotton ruffles. As easy to wear as a tee, but with more flair.

Fit Tip: It’s true to size, but I prefer the longer length of my mom’s fit, so I’d consider sizing up. We’re both wearing reg XS.


Ruffle TeeSimilar Distressed Jeans | Gray Booties | Dark Jeans | Knee Boots

This crossover top is made of a soft jersey knit, with a fun drape to the front, and longer back. It’s cute now with booties, and later with sandals…and it came home with both of us!

Fit Tip: It’s true to size (we’re both wearing XS), but a tad low-cut for my chest, so I’d wear with this lacy bralette.


Draped TopSimilar Distressed Jeans | Gray Booties | Dark Jeans | Knee Boots

This dress is a thick crochet, with a sturdy lining that keeps you tucked in and comfortable. And the color is gorgeous, especially paired with fun chiquita-banana earrings! They didn’t have my usual size in store, but I don’t think it would be too low cut if I were wearing the right size.

Fit Tip: You can see this small is too big for me, so I think it runs true to size. I’ve already ordered an XS to see for sure because I loved it so much!


Crochet Dress | Fringe Statement Earrings

This ruffled sheath dress fits like a glove, and is so elegant. It’s made of a double-lined crepe, and would work for everything from the office to Summer weddings. Clearly Mama SP felt great in it, and isn’t that the first thing to look for in a dress?!

Fit Tip: She’s wearing a reg 2, but a petite would be a better length. I’d stick with regular sizing for my height or taller.


Ruffle Sheath Dress

Hello Spring! I immediately fell for this dress…the a-line fit, solid material, and vibrant color. The band sits comfortably on the arm, and the fitted waist creates a flattering silhouette.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a reg Small, but would prefer a petite XS for a slimmer fit and shorter length. 


Off-the-Shoulder Dress | Fringe Earrings

As soon as she slipped this cobalt, ruffled number on, Mama SP started dancing…so I think it’s another winner. The flared hem and arms, not to mention vibrant jewel tone make the classic shift a showstopper. I topped it off with a statement necklace, and love the mix of blue hues.

Fit Tip: This size 0 fit her perfectly, but hugged my hips too much. So if you’re pear-shaped, I’d recommend sizing up.


Ruffle Shift Dress | Statement Necklace

I actually tried this dress on just to show off my Scarlett O’Hara impression, then fell in love with it! It moves beautifully, and manages to be flattering, even with the abundance of fabric. I’m loving all things blue and white right now, too.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 0P, which required I slip it on over my head, but fits beautifully once on, and no hem needed. If you’re taller though, I’d recommend non-petite for more length.


Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress

Hot tamale alert! This striped dress hugs the body close, but is thick enough to smooth out any lumps and bumps. The lace-up v-neck gives it sass, but the length keeps it tasteful. And drop earrings add some fun color to the black and white stripes, too.

Fit Tip: She’s wearing a size 2P, so it’s true to size for this brand (I usually size up in Eliza J.)


Striped Lace-Up Dress | Drop Earrings

This utility jacket has been my favorite for awhile, and I’m thrilled they’ve brought it back for Spring because I know I’ll be wearing it all season. It makes even the most basic outfit cool…including jeans and a tee. I paired it with this v-neck, but we both still prefer this tee Mama SP is wearing.

Fit Tip: The jacket runs large, so size down. We’re both wearing an XXS. The tees are true and we’re wearing XS.


Utility Jacket | V-Neck Tee (this color on sale) | Favorite Scoop TeeSimilar Distressed Jeans | Gray Booties | Dark Jeans | Knee Boots

We both fell hard for these lounge pants, so couldn’t wait to try some new pieces from the same brand…and they did not disappoint! They are ridiculously soft and comfortable, and you could actually get away with wearing these in public.

Fit Tip: We both size up one in the top and pants…we’re wearing Smalls in each.


Drawstring Pants | Pullover | Hoodie

More pajama/lounge sets…both super comfortable, but not quite as flattering. This hoodie has a cute crossover back though.

Fit Tip: We sized up in these, as well, and are wearing smalls in all the pieces.


Hoodie | Drawstring Joggers | ‘Happy Hour’ Sweatshirt | Pajama Pants

I never met a striped tee I didn’t love…their styling options are so unlimited! This tee is a little thin, but a great layering piece under a puffer vest, or military and jean jackets. I like the slightly longer fit, too.

Fit Tip: It’s true to size, and extra stretchy. I’m wearing an XS.


Striped Tee | Cutout Booties | SunglassesDark Jeans

Darling floral blouse with ruffle sleeves, so cute worn alone or under a cardigan. It would be darling with a skirt and sandals, or even shorts. We won’t even speak of my hair situation. #washme

Fit Tip: The blouse and cardigan were both a little snug under the arms, so I’d recommend sizing up one. 


Floral Ruffle Blouse | Cardigan

Striped dresses are classic closet staples, but good ones are hard to find. This one is a great thick cotton, with just enough stretch to keep it’s shape, and a perfect length. Pair it with these sneakers, and a jean jacket, and you’ve got a Spring uniform!

Fit Tip: I prefer dresses like this to skim the body, rather than hug, so I sized up to a small.


Striped T-Shirt Dress

I love a good popover, and this relaxed linen-blend is perfection for jeans and shorts. (Use code FORYOU for 40% off)

Fit Tip: My usual XS fit, but I like the slightly oversized-fit of this small, too.


Striped Popover Shirt | Dark Jeans | Cutout Booties | Hoop Earrings

Since I’ve been living in these lounge pants at home, I love that these joggers allow me to take that same comfort-level to the street. These are extra-thick so you don’t feel exposed, with just enough of a relaxed fit to give them a casual feel. (Use code FORYOU for 40% off) I’d wear them with this favorite tee, sneakers, and a jean jacket.

Fit Tip: They fit true and I’m wearing an XS. Size up one if you prefer a really relaxed fit through the hips, and use the drawstring for the right fit at your waist.


Favorite Scoop Tee | Joggers | Hoop Earrings

This cowlneck tunic is great now for leggings, but lightweight enough to make it a great transition piece. It’s a super fuzzy-soft, stretchy material, with nice drape. The neck can be worn off the shoulder, but fits best as a cowlneck.

Fit Tip: It’s true to size, and we’re both wearing an XS.


Cowlneck TunicSimilar Distressed Jeans | Gray Booties | Dark Jeans | Knee Boots

I’m not fully on-board with the cold-shoulder trend, but I liked the subtle peek of this one, bordered by the cute ruffle. The sweater is a moderately-thin ribbed knit with a lot of stretch, and a pale blush pink color.

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


Cold-Shoulder Sweater | Similar Distressed Jeans | Gray Booties

This striped cowlneck is a cute twist on a sweatshirt…with fun raglan sleeves, and drawstring hem. It has a terrycloth lining, so it was a bit scratchy for me, but didn’t bother mom. The description said it can be worn off the shoulder, too, but we’d stick with the cowlneck.

Fit Tip: It runs true and we’re both wearing reg. XS.


Striped Cowlneck SweatshirtSimilar Distressed Jeans | Gray Booties | Dark Jeans | Knee Boots

Tank tops are perfect for layering under cardigans and light jackets, but I prefer them to have a loose fit, as opposed to body-hugging. This one is silky soft cotton, well-fitted through the chest and underarms, but perfectly draped through the body. I’d wear it alone, under cardigans, or even with a moto jacket for date night. This is the kind of closet staple you collect in every color.

Fit Tip: I typically size up in this brand because of the European sizing, but I didn’t in this one. I’m wearing a 2.


Tank | Long Cardigan (similar linen-blend for Spring) | Similar Distressed Jeans | Gray Booties

This top is about as soft and easy-to-wear as they come! I love the twist front for a laid-back look with jeans or shorts, and the three-quarter sleeves. Seriously, as soon as I tried the blue, I immediately hopped online and ordered the black, too!

Fit Tip: It’s true and we’re both wearing XS.


Twist Front Fleece PulloverSimilar Distressed Jeans | Gray Booties | Dark Jeans | Knee Boots

We found so many cute things, but even better was spending the day together!


Pom Pom Straw Hat

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? And seriously, isn’t my mom just the cutest?! Oh, and her pearl necklace is sold out, but this one is almost identical, and I’m wearing this necklace in most of the pics.

You may want to check out the previous installment because many of the items featured are on sale! Have a joyful Monday, friends!

{Shop our Dressing Room Faves}

Leave a Comment

58 Comments

  1. Sewfrench wrote:

    You’ve got quite a few bad links. Three at least all pointing to the wrong its. The off the shoulder top, Mama’s ruffle sheaf and striped lace up dress, off shoulder maxi, spring version of long cardigan….
    Maybe it is my computer… but some links are correct!
    Love seeing some great transition pieces on real people!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Thank you so much! We had a great time together, that’s for sure. And the links are all now updated, thanks so much for letting me know!! xoxo

      Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  2. Y’all in the ruffle tops are too dang cute. And how is it that I too like the Scarlet O’Hara dress? It actually looks great on you!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  3. Jennifer wrote:

    You two are adorable! What a blessing to spend such a fun day with your Mom! I love the Scarlett O’Hara dress! Super cute!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  4. Ashley Kohr wrote:

    Hi. Some of the links are not taking you to items. I noticed it on striped lace up dress (adorable) and two dresses prior.

    Ugh Mondays!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Yes, ugh!!! Thanks for the heads-up…I’ve got them all corrected now!! xoxo

      Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  5. Stephanie wrote:

    I love that floral blouse from the gap! I love these posts because they’re unstaged it’s so much easier to see when things work and when they don’t when they aren’t staged to look perfect!

    http://aneducationindomestication.com

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  6. Christina wrote:

    So many great things! The links are bad though. I clicked on 3 (earrings, stripped dress in your mom and linen cardigan) that all took me to the wrong thing.

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Ugh, what a way to start a Monday, right?! I’ve got them all updated and corrected now. Thanks for letting me know, Christina! xo

      Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  7. Brittany wrote:

    Fun fun outfits! That blue maxi is perfection… Love seeing you and your mama having fun with these pics! Happy Monday!!

    Brittany 🙂
    http://www.kingdomofsequins.com

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  8. Britney wrote:

    Is it bad that I really love all the pj’s and loungewear? Cause I do! I also think those ruffle tee’s are adorable, and that off the shoulder dress looks lovely on you. Fun post!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  9. Amy wrote:

    I CANNOT get over how TINY your mom is! She was never overweight by any means, but she looks really in shape! She is always gorgeous but I just didn’t want her hard work to go unnoticed…

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      You are so sweet!! I’ll be sure to pass your kind words along to her…she’s worked so hard, and looks so good! But most important, her health is greatly improved!!

      Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  10. Betsy wrote:

    What color is the statement necklace your mom is wearing? It is offered in several colors and I couldn’t tell which one she is wearing from the photo.

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  11. So many adorable finds!! Is the navy version of that ruffle tee only available in stores? I love it but don’t see online. Thanks!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      It’s brand new, so it must not be fully online yet. It actually comes in gray, navy and a solid black…I’ll keep checking and hopefully they all come online soon! xo

      Posted 2.13.17 Reply
      • Thanks Cassie! Can’t wait to scoop up the navy stripe!

        Posted 2.15.17 Reply
  12. Kristen wrote:

    Hey Cassie! Can you tell me real quick, is that gap popover sheer? Thought I’d ask before ordering online. Thanks!!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      No ma’am…it’s a good linen/cotton blend, so I wouldn’t say it’s sheer at all. I would, however, probably wear a nude bra, but certainly no need for a cami or anything. xo

      Posted 2.13.17 Reply
      • Kristen wrote:

        Thanks!

        Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  13. Michelle N. wrote:

    Love when you do these with your mom, she is such a doll. I love the pearl look necklace she was wearing with several tops. It took a basic top and gave it some umph!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  14. Barb wrote:

    Love, love seeing all your darling finds! You two look amazing! Would love to hear how your mom lost her weight! Thanks!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      She did a program through her doctor called Ideal Protein…it improved her health so much, too!

      Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  15. Joanna wrote:

    Where is Mama’s pearl necklace from? It’s so pretty!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Hers is actually sold out, but I linked a very similar one at the end of the post! xo

      Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  16. Lucille wrote:

    I can’t shop at Nordstroms any more. They way they have treated Ivanka Trump is horrible. I had a gorgeous dress I ordered to wear to a wedding. I returned it.

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  17. Shelly wrote:

    She IS the cutest!! I just adore these post and love the memories you are making with your adorable momma. Crazy over all the ruffles.

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  18. Ivory wrote:

    Forget the fabulously clothing, I want to find out how I can get a gorgeous body like you two, wow! I would love to own all of the beautiful outfits shown here. Thanks for sharing.

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  19. Margaret wrote:

    I’d love it if you could do a shopping trip from somewhere other than Nordstrom’s with your mom. I am not shopping there due to the way they handled ivanka’s line.

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Mary K wrote:

      I am right there with you. This stuff is cute but I cannot in good conscience shop there anymore.

      Posted 2.14.17 Reply
  20. Cherri wrote:

    Could you give some tips on how you take your iphone selfies? I like to document my outfits but find it hard to get a good photo and it doesn’t seem to work for me when I hold it the same way you do!
    Also, I too would love some suggestions from places other than Nordstrom.

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      I’m not doing a true selfie, in that the camera is still pointing out. I just look at the phone to make sure I’m centered in the frame..so I’m basically just taking a picture of me in the mirror. Does that make sense, and help?! xo

      Posted 2.14.17 Reply
  21. Jill wrote:

    Do you have any larger or plus size friends you could feature to style for us bigger girls? I love your taste but never see anything nearly as attractive on the racks in my size.

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
  22. Lauren wrote:

    Wow! Mama Sugarplum is dressed to stun in that blush-pink dress! She looks amazing! You look lovely as always, Cassie. You could make a black trash bag look chic. =)

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Ha!! Maybe belted and with the right shoes!? 😉 And agreed, that dress was MADE for her! xo

      Posted 2.14.17 Reply
  23. Molly wrote:

    I love these dressing room diary posts!!! First of all, your mom is so adorable (and fashionable)!
    I’m in my early forties, and I’ve always had a love for classic modern fashion. Thanks to your blog, I have purchased several of your picks, and I’m never disappointed!!!

    Posted 2.13.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Yay! I’m thrilled to hear the posts are helpful and inspirational!! xo

      Posted 2.14.17 Reply
  24. What fun pieces! I have ordered the crochet dress….the color is fabulous. Previous to this post I had just received the twist top fleece pullover and I love it!!! Just like you said….it is so comfortable. Thanks for sharing and keep em coming. We can all use some great ideas!

    Posted 2.14.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      I’m thrilled the pieces work out, and my reviews are helpful!! xoxo

      Posted 2.14.17 Reply
  25. Celina wrote:

    Love the photos of mumma sugarplum. Can you tell me about her haircut?

    Posted 2.14.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Isn’t it so cute?! If you flip through some of the DRD posts, you’ll find a few pics of the sides of her hair! 😉 xo

      Posted 2.15.17 Reply
  26. Erin wrote:

    I love your style posts…so many great outfits and ideas. I ordered the Wit&Wisdom jeans. Wondering if you wear regular or petite length. I’m 5’5″. Also, do they stretch much? Trying to decide between two sizes, still waiting for one to come in the mail. Thanks for your inspiration!

    Posted 2.15.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Hi Erin! I wear the regular size, and just cuff depending on the shoes. And I’d say they do give and stretch some, so I’d err on the side of tighter. Hope that helps! xo

      Posted 2.15.17 Reply
  27. Stacy wrote:

    That Calson Striped T is super cute, but super thin. I bought black & white versions at the Anniversary Sale this summer and loved the thinness, length & feel. The Black one got that dreaded belly button area hole (3 of them) within 2 wears. I had to throw it out. 🙁 My two white ones I got are still going strong, but the BP Crewneck T is so much better because its thicker. I’m going to buy those instead at this year’s sale.

    Posted 2.15.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      That’s a bummer to hear!!! I haven’t had any trouble with my Caslon tees thus far, so maybe you got some duds. I’d definitely return to Nordstrom next time…they stand behind their product and likely would have refunded you!! xo

      Posted 2.15.17 Reply
      • Amanda wrote:

        My Caslon shirts have worn after a couple wears as well. One had random holes 🙁
        Do they refund even if worn and washed?

        Posted 2.18.17 Reply
        • Cassie wrote:

          Absolutely!! They stand behind their products…that’s a main reason I shop with them so regularly!!

          Posted 2.19.17 Reply
  28. Gigi wrote:

    Love to see all the outfits put together. Certainly gives us lots of ideas. I really love to see your mother in the pictures too. She is so cute. I have a question. Summer will soon be here. I know the no hose look is what’s popular. But I’m an older lady that still dresses in stylish clothes. However my legs don’t look pretty with dresses and such without hose. What are my options. Thanks.

    Posted 2.18.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      I understand, and totally commiserate, Gigi!! My legs seem to become more unrecognizable every year, but honestly, wearing hose will age you more than your legs themselves. I think at church or a funeral :(, they’re acceptable, but not in everyday life. My tip and leg-saver is self tanner! It will smooth out the imperfections and conceal spots and veins! This post has my tips for applying it as seamlessly as possible! https://hisugarplum.com/2015/04/lets-talk-self-tanner.html

      Posted 2.19.17 Reply
  29. Melissa wrote:

    Love your blog! Love your mom! I’d really love to see you try on outfits with a taller friend as well. I’m 5’8″ and have tried a few items that look amazing on you, but they never work for me. Thanks for considering!

    Posted 2.19.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Want to come shopping with me!? All my friends are the same height as me!! xo

      Posted 2.21.17 Reply
  30. Casey wrote:

    Hi Cassie! Are the fringe statement earrings that you are wearing with the teal dress lightweight? I really want to snag them – but I hate nothing more than an earring that makes my ears ache by the end of the day! Thanks!

    Posted 2.22.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Hi Casey! They are feather-light!!! It’s a thin wire with embroidery thread…so you don’t even feel them at all! xo

      Posted 2.22.17 Reply
  31. Rachel wrote:

    Hi Cassie! Love these posts but I don’t have a Nordstrom nearby so I am always hesitant to buy and need to return by mail. Any chance you could do more Banana Republic? Also, any good reqs for a denim vest? My niece has one from kids old navy that is awesome – looking for one for adults!!

    Posted 3.1.17 Reply
  32. DIANNE wrote:

    Cassie I love it when your Mom is also modeling clothes. I love her hair, very beautiful lady. Would love to hear how she takes care of herself, hair, and makeup. Keep up the great blogging. Love it all.

    Posted 3.3.17 Reply
  33. Cheryl wrote:

    The Gap terry pants did not pan out. Extremely baggy and low quality. Alert to readers–for the full price, a crime. Even on sale, good enough to cut up into rags. Check the reviews on this one. Cassie, you lucked out and look good in them.

    Posted 3.3.17 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      That is so disappointing to hear!!! so far mine have held up well, but I won’t hesitate to return if that changes soon! I’m sorry they didn’t work out!! xo

      Posted 3.3.17 Reply