Cheers to Friday, friends! Thanks so much for your kind comments on yesterday’s post…I’m thrilled you’re on the bootcut bandwagon with me, and that you felt inspired to create new looks from your own closet.
Today it’s time for the next installment of Dressing Room Diaries, where I hunt down some of the cutest new arrivals from my favorite retailers, and review them for you. It’s been awhile since my last one, so this is a doozy! I mean, the get a snack and settle in, kind of doozy. I thought about trimming it down, but hated not sharing all the cute stuff with you, so I’ll keep the chatter to a minimum.
You know the drill…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. I dragged Mr. SP along for my trip to Old Navy…and he behaved for all of 2 minutes. #manchild
Sidenote: I’m 5’4″-ish, 120 pounds-ish, with a slight pear shape. My usual size is an XS/0.
Old Navy is always completely hit or miss for me…I either walk out empty-handed, or love everything I try. This trip was a homerun, starting with this classic plaid flannel shirt and puffer vest. Both are total Fall essentials in my book.
Fit Tip: They run true-to-size and I’m wearing an XS in both.
This striped t-shirt dress is made of sturdy heavy knit, making it perfect for transitional weather. The style is classically timeless, and the length mom-appropriate.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in this pic, but it was a little tight in the forearms and across the bum. I’d recommend sizing up one.
More plaid goodness with an oversized boyfriend shirt and quilted puffer…and yep, I love the plaid on plaid, too.
Fit Tip: Sizing up one to a small, gives this already-oversized shirt, the fit of a tunic, and making it perfect for leggings. Or tuck it in and pair with a vest or jacket.
I loved this relaxed striped tee made of heavy knit, and wanted it in every color. Too bad I already have a striped tee in every color of the rainbow. #wardrobestaple
Fit Tip: True to size unless you want it fitted, size down one. I’m wearing an XS.
Here’s what I wore to the mall that day…I knew I’d be trying on clothes, so I sweated it out in jeans and booties. #dedicatedblogger I may not be able to comfortably wear my favorite Fall staples yet, but I can sure carry my favorite Fall bag!
Reese Witherspoon brought her new shop to Dallas, and they were sweet enough to invite me in before the opening. I couldn’t resist sneaking off to try on a few things for ya’ll. It’s on the pricy side, but so well-made, and I love all the ladylike shapes.
All her clothes have little extra touches making them special…like gold buttons and scallop trim on this shirt, and a fun cheer pin on the tailgate sweater. It comes in several team colors, so fun for football season!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in both, and they are fitted.
I don’t know that this shade of tan is flattering on me, but I loved the unexpected combination of colors. It would be beautiful on you dark-haired beauties.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, for a fitted silhouette. Size up if you prefer relaxed.
This is another one of those ‘grab it in every color’ items. It’s made of a soft, almost fuzzy, material, with a touch of stretch, and a relaxed fit. The biggest decision with this sweater is which of the seven great colors to choose.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, and it’s almost too big in the chest. So if you’re small-chested, you may need a cami. And this color is called ‘sugar coral.’
This sweater kind of confused me…it’s super thick and heavy, yet has cropped sleeves. So basically, you can’t wear it until it’s legit-cold, but then your arms are exposed. It looks a lot cuter on the website, so I wanted to share a real-life fit.
This easy-to-wear t-shirt dress is soft and stretchy, but a nice thick cotton to keep things smooth. It’s cute with both booties and my favorite sneakers, and a perfect travel dress.
Fit Tip: It’s got a body-con fit in your usual size. Here I’m wearing an XS, and I felt a little exposed through the bum. Let’s just say I was giving that cotton a run for it’s money! 😉
One of my favorite rompers ever is by this brand, so I knew I’d love this Fall version. The pattern is so pretty, and the color and long sleeves make it a great transitional piece. It even has pockets! But the length was a tad too short for my thighs.
Fit Tip: True to size, I’m wearing an XS. I could have sized up for more length, but the body and arms would be too big.
This isn’t typically the kind of pattern I’d be drawn to, so I was surprised by how much I liked it on. It’s a soft and stretchy ribbed jersey, but not overly thin, so it works with booties or even knee-boots when it cools down even more.
Fit Tip: The arms and chest were a little snug, and the length a tad short, in my usual size, so I went up one to a small. The opposite is true for this classic military jacket…it runs large and I’m wearing an XXS.
This sleeveless sweater dress skims the body just enough to keep it flattering, but not so much it’s body conscious. I love the cowlneck and slightly longer back-hem.
Fit Tip: It’s fairly true-to-size, but a little long for my height. Those of you 5’6″ and up are in business with this one!
Another hit from the maker of my beloved cowlneck swing dress, this version has a fun front detail, and cropped sleeves. It’s not the same ribbed knit, so it feels thinner.
Fit Tip: True to size, I’m wearing an XS. You could size down and wear it as a tunic with leggings, or size up if you prefer more length (or you have boobs!)
It’s probably a good thing they didn’t have my size in-stock, or I’d likely have gone home with another pink dress (that I don’t need!). I loved the embroidered trim and flattering a-line shape, and especially the ruffles.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small in this pic because that’s all they had in-store, but I think my usual size would have been perfect.
You guys keep asking for more traditional workwear, so I’ve been on the lookout for fun styles like this lovely blouse with hummingbird print. (Mom, this has you written all over it!) It comes in several colors and patterns, and is also on sale! The pencil skirt fits like a glove thanks to it’s thick knit, but fully-lined for a smooth fit.
Fit Tip: The top runs a little large if you’re small-chested…the armholes were a little low on me. I’m wearing a reg XS, but I think a petite would be perfect. The skirt is 0P.
This sassy lace overlay blouse easily transitions the skirt from Work to Weekend, and has a built-in nude liner. It’s unlike anything I own, and I’m a little obsessed!
Fit Tip: The blouse is true-to-size, I’m wearing an XS.
Here’s the lace top dressed-down with denim and leopard flats. Or you could be like the model online, and pair it with saggy-crotched leather pants. Your call. 😉
Fit Tip: These flats are super comfy with a quilted foot-bed, and run true to size.
This open front drape cardi is really thin, but not sheer, so it’s perfect for when you want an added layer for style, and not necessarily warmth. It comes in tons of great colors, too.
I love the updated fit of this military jacket with it’s stand-up color and snap pockets. It also has an inside drawstring waist to create a waistline if you like. It’s made of a rugged cotton canvas, but doesn’t add bulk. And these moto jeans have a fun horizontal pin tucks that are difficult to see in my pics.
Fit Tip: The jacket runs large, I sized down to an XXS. Jeans are true to size.
I was all over the off-the-shoulder styles this Summer, but the cold-shoulder isn’t one I’ve fully embraced yet. I have to admit though, this striped shirt was fun.
Fit Tip: There wasn’t an XS in-store for me to try, so I’m wearing a small…which is too big. I think even my usual size would be a fairly relaxed fit, so it’s more of a casual tee.
I think I’ve tried this twist-front blouse on for you before. Obviously I keep coming back to it!
Fit Tip: I love the idea of it, but unfortunately, it’s just a little too big for me. I’m wearing an XS and it feels a little deflated through my chest. Those of you with ‘gals’ should be all over it though!
These bell sleeves are fun, but I wouldn’t make it past breakfast without dragging them through something. Those of you with more self-control might enjoy it.
Fit Tip: I sized up to a small for more length, but in my usual size, it could be worn as a tunic with leggings.
Now these bell sleeves I can manage…I love the slightly retro, yet totally chic, vibe of this overlay dress. In fact, this is a contender for a cocktail party I’m attending in New York next week.
Fit Tip: I sized up to a small for more length and room in the arms.
I have the v-neck version of this sweater, so it’s no surprise I love the slight mock-neck version, as well. The sweater is soft enough to be worn alone, and stretchy enough to layer over a collared shirt.
Fit Tip: It runs large, and is extra stretchy…I’m wearing an XXS.
I found this scarf awhile back, and it’s finally hit the website. The fringe is a fun alternative to the traditional infinity scarf, and comes in really great Fall colors.
This leopard sweater shell would be great layered under a blazer or cardigan, or worn alone. It’s stretchy, but slightly cropped, so better suited for skirts and trousers.
I wish I’d brightened this photo so you could see just how cute this floral dress is. The mock neck gives it a mod vibe, and it has an unexpected keyhole back. And pockets. Pretend I’m wearing both shoes…but it’s great with heels or booties.
This cold-shoulder crepe dress is my other contender for the cocktail party. I think. You know I could end up going a completely different direction, but for now, I’m leaning towards a little black dress.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS and it pulls a little through the bum. I’m going to try a small because I’m not sure if it’s supposed to graze the body, or hang straight.
Clearly I crave cozy and comfy during colder months, and gravitate towards relaxed tops like this tunic. It has a fuzzy, almost fleece-like feel, but is stretchy and thinner.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, but would likely size up for more room through the body, and wear it with leggings. Sizing up would require a cami though.
You really can’t go wrong with a striped tee, jeans and a scarf. Pair it with sneakers for a sporty vibe, or booties for a more classic Fall look. This top is oversized with a small waffle weave. This infinity scarf doesn’t overwhelm your frame, and comes in three great plaid patterns.
Fit Tip: Intended for a relaxed fit, I’m wearing an XS.
Holy wow, are you still with me?! I think this post was more than a doozy…more like a humdinger. I do hope you found it helpful, and maybe discovered some new goodies. And for those of you missing Mama Sugarplum, we’ve got a shopping date on the calendar, so look for her next time!
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, and check the codes below for additional percentage off! Happy weekend, lovebugs!
I love the little black dress you are thinking for the cocktail party. It looks great on you. Also, the 2 bell sleeved dresses looked so cute on you, too!
Ha! This was a long one! I had to stop reading and come back to finish later. (Kids wanted breakfast- the nerve, right? 😂) I have the BP striped shirt and love it! Great quality at a low price point. And I have the green Aztec scarf…I got it last December and can't wait to wear it again. It actually was our table cloth Christmas dinner as well. Lol Blanket scarfs are becoming my favorite table clothes. I love keeping the wood exposed on tables instead of covering the whole table. Happy weekend!
I think this is the first time I've ever owned some of your Dressing Room Diary items! I LOVE the ON puffer vests…I own them in 3 colors and am considering a 4th… And that 3/4 sleeve thicker t-shirt dress I just bought in store in a black/white leopard print. So excited about it!
Appreciate that you show items that aren't a great fit. I'm a definite petite (small across shoulders and short, short legs) and like seeing some of those styles. The cold-shoulder look can go away any time; not a fan at all. Thank you for your posts as I'm sure they take a lot of time.
I love these diary posts!! Could I ask a random hair question? How do you get so much volume in the back/crown area? Mine always stays flat. Yours looks consistently good!
These are some of my favorite posts! I know they are at on of work, but love seeing all the inspiration for cute outfits…and really, you are adorable with a capital A in everything you put on!
While I love your Dressing Room Diaries my wallet does not, lol! So. Much. Goodness.
WOW! Bring on the cooler temperatures, I'm ready to bust out the fall clothes! Great outfit ideas, thanks so much for sharing!
Again, loving so much!! But I extra love that funnel sweatshirt!
You look SOOOOOOO good in dresses! Like EVERY SINGLE DRESS. It's awesome. And annoying. 😉
I love the little black dress you are thinking for the cocktail party. It looks great on you. Also, the 2 bell sleeved dresses looked so cute on you, too!
Ha! This was a long one! I had to stop reading and come back to finish later. (Kids wanted breakfast- the nerve, right? 😂) I have the BP striped shirt and love it! Great quality at a low price point. And I have the green Aztec scarf…I got it last December and can't wait to wear it again. It actually was our table cloth Christmas dinner as well. Lol Blanket scarfs are becoming my favorite table clothes. I love keeping the wood exposed on tables instead of covering the whole table. Happy weekend!
Love so many of those outfits! I really like the fringe scarf with the plaid shirt – looks cowgirl-ish, so cute!
I think this is the first time I've ever owned some of your Dressing Room Diary items! I LOVE the ON puffer vests…I own them in 3 colors and am considering a 4th… And that 3/4 sleeve thicker t-shirt dress I just bought in store in a black/white leopard print. So excited about it!
Appreciate that you show items that aren't a great fit. I'm a definite petite (small across shoulders and short, short legs) and like seeing some of those styles. The cold-shoulder look can go away any time; not a fan at all. Thank you for your posts as I'm sure they take a lot of time.
That was a doozy and a humdinger! Wow! I love the tailgate sweater and the floral romper.
Love these posts! Found so much I love and always find inspiration.
I love these diary posts!! Could I ask a random hair question? How do you get so much volume in the back/crown area? Mine always stays flat. Yours looks consistently good!
Thanks so much, Jen! I dry my hair upside down until it's about 90% dry, focusing the nozzle at the roots. That's the only thing I can think that creates fullness. That and it's just messy!;) You can check out my hair tutorial here: http://www.hisugarplumsblog.com/2014/11/how-to-curl-your-hair-make-it-last.html
Wow so many favorites in this post. I must have the tailgate sweater ad the boots that go with just about everything!
These are some of my favorite posts! I know they are at on of work, but love seeing all the inspiration for cute outfits…and really, you are adorable with a capital A in everything you put on!
My vote is cold shoulder dress for the cocktail party!