Dressing Room Diaries

Happiest of Fridays, friends! I hope this week has been good to you. We’ve had uninterrupted, one-on-one time with Little Miss all week since her big brother is at Summer camp…and let me tell you, it’s been a chatty one!! That girl has more thoughts, ideas, and questions than anyone I’ve ever known!! I love her curious, imaginative mind, and I thank every star in the sky that she’s ours, but #ssshhhhhhh! 😉 I just can’t imagine where she gets her motormouth.

But let’s get down to the business at hand…today I’ve got a Kardashian-sized Dressing Room Diaries for you, featuring tons of my favorite finds of late. Most of it is included in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, but I found several other great things available to non-cardholders, as well.

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 even drug Mama Sugarplum with me to give you another perspective!!! Let’s get after it, shall we? Maybe you should get a drank first…it’s a doozy!!

Sidenote: Everything fits true-to-size unless I indicate otherwise. And fyi, I’m 5’4″-ish, 120 pounds-ish, with a slight pear shape. My usual size is an XS/0. Mama Sugarplum is 5’2″, with an hourglass figure. Her usual size is M/8. 

 
This entire get-up is speaking my Fall love-language…from the distressed jeans and boots, to plaid shirt and cross body bag (it’s only $30!). I’ve been holding off on over-the-knee boots for a few years, but as you’ll see from these pics, they are darling with tons of outfits! These are a great price point, super comfortable, and fit easily over my ‘athletic’ calves. I tried about five pair currently in the sale, and these were by-far my favorites.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

This pretty plaid has a more feminine vibe, and perfect for my mom’s style. And I don’t think she’ll take those booties off all season…nor will I, since we both got a pair!! They are good…really good!

Fit Tip: Size down half-size in the booties.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

Oh yes we did take a selfie together!! Plaid for all ages!

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
On Mama SP: Plaid Shirt | Jeans | Booties

Having her with me forced me to look in areas I don’t normally shop (her budget is a little higher than mine!)…but I was shocked to find this Michael Kors faux-fur vest for under $100.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a size up & mom is wearing her normal size…so choose your sized depending on whether or not you want to be able to zip it.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
Nothing ground-breaking about this…other than it’s my favorite tee of all time, and on sale in 16 colors!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small in this pic, but also own it in XS.

 

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
I love the little ruffle around the arm and neck of this girlie blouse…such a fun contrast to distressed jeans, or pretty tucked into a skirt for work. It has a cute tie in the back, and also comes in a gorgeous cobalt blue (which I also have #oops).
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

There are a handful of wraps I want to try before deciding on one, but this is a real contender…the sleeves have a fun fit, and the body doesn’t overwhelm your frame. Plus, it’s cashmere (and under $100!). This is the other one I’m waiting to try. Oh, that gorgeous pendant necklace is on sale, too!

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

I work mostly from home now, so I don’t have as much need for a true workwear wardrobe…but I know many of you do. This outfit is almost cute enough to make me rejoin the corporate world though…I’m really trying to find a reason to need the whole thing!

Fit Tip: The skirt runs big in the waist (I’m holding it together in the back so you can see the fit), so definitely size down. The top is true-to-size (and darling on the back), but if you’d prefer to wear it with jeans, I’d size up.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

Can you see it in her face and body language how much my mom loves this whole outfit? While she got me to venture into other sections of the store, I persuaded her to try new-to-her styles, and she loved many of them! She just put her own feminine twist on them, like adding these stunning booties.

Fit Tip: The shirt is oversized & perfect for leggings, but size down if you prefer a closer fit for jeans.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
Let’s pause and gaze at every darling and perfect detail of this shift dress. #sigh My mom was practically swooning when she saw me…if she had her way, I’d have worn this precious style every day of my teen years. #hellno Funny how now I’m swooning along with her.
Fit Tip: This is a size 0 & pulling across my hips, so if you’ve got a little junk like me, size up one. And do you see those perfect patent pumps? You probably think they’re Kate Spade. #nope #only$60

 

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

Work that workwear!! She took this entire outfit home, and I’m betting she wore it to work today! The trousers are a stretchy knit and so flattering.

Fit Tip: She’s wearing her usual pant size in petite for the perfect length with heels.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

I adored the stripe and softness of this sweater…but it’s a little low-cut for my comfort zone. I’d either pair it with a lace-trimmed v-neck cami (to add a touch of softness and cover the cleavage, but not alter the shape of the neckline), or size down one.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

Here’s the fit when sized down. And worn by a person with actual boobs. #somuchforgenetics

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
This shirt is light enough to wear now with shorts or skirts, but also perfect for transitioning to Fall or Spring.
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

I was excited to track this blouse down…the price and colors are so great…but it’s a little shapeless on my frame. I’ve ordered a smaller version in petite and will keep you posted.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

However, my mom loved it…she bought two in her regular size for leggings, and sized-down for another to wear with jeans! (She’s wearing her usual size in these pics, perfect length to cover all the lady bits when wearing leggings.)

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
Same fit tips go for this long-sleeve version, by the same maker. My usual size is a great tunic for leggings (adore this purple shade!), but I’d size down to wear with jeans. These absurdly comfortable jeans in a slightly unexpected shade of light gray, to be exact!
Fit Tip: I’ve got the jeans rolled under because they are fairly long. I’ve ordered them in petite length for comparison and will report back. But I adore the soft, stretchy fit!
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

Same blouse so cute with leggings and booties!

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
We’re both wearing our usual sizes (XS & M), but you can see based on where the top falls, that I have a much longer torso than her. The roll-tab sleeve is a great detail, and the fabric is thick, but still silky soft.
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
On Me: Blouse | Gray Jeans | Booties

I never met a stripe I didn’t love…and this cute sweater comes with a fun exposed back zipper. It’s not quite long enough for me to wear with these new perfect leggings (seriously…they are super thick, not too long, and have a wide, stretchy waistband!!).

Fit Tip: Size up in the sweater if you want it for leggings, or keep usual size for pants & jeans. The leggings are true to size & life-altering.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
Two things worth noting about this outfit…the sweater magically gives me boobs, and the over-the-knee boots balance out my hips. I always assumed over-the-knee boots wouldn’t be flattering on my short frame, with long torso. I thought I’d be walking around with only 4-inches of leg showing.
Turns out, the key for us shorter gals, is to get a pair of boots that are a slim fit on your calf and ankle, and don’t foldover at the top…this creates a longer, leaner line, giving the illusion of longer, leaner legs! #winning This pair did it for me, but you may have to try a few depending on your legs.
Fit Tip: This is my usual size in the sweater, but I sized up one to cover my stomach, and give me a bit more room in the upper arms.
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

Same sweater, sized up one.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
On Mama SP: Crossover Sweater | Jeans | Booties

This style was my Winter uniform when I worked in an office…you just can’t go wrong with a great-fitting pair of slacks and a turtleneck. And the drape of these pants is perfection.

Fit Tip: Pants fit true, but run long. This is a size small sweater, but I’d prefer the fit of my usual XS.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
This dress is sure to sell-out…the fit too good, and the price too crazy. I think I see a future Work to Weekend around this little number!
Fit Tip: I sized up to a Small for more length & less body-skimming.
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

The lace sleeves are so fun on this sweater, and the body is super soft and stretchy. But I’d recommend putting your bracelets on after the sweater. #oops

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

This coat is so warm and heavy, I almost had a full-blown heatstroke in the dressing room. I love the flap pockets and hood…such a classic coat that never goes out of style. If you prefer a shorter coat, my all-time favorite pea coat is on sale, too!

Fit Tip: Size up one in this coat…maybe two if you live in a climate where you’d layer it over bulky sweaters.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

This layered field jacket is more in-line with Texas Winters. The sweatshirt vest is removable, but why would you want to?!?! Man, if only I needed another military jacket.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
Oh wait, maybe I do…because this gray one is too cute for words! I’d tell you the jacket went home with my mom, too, but then you might start to think she went a little overboard at the sale. #shetotallygotit #canyoublameher?
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
She did some more swooning over this cowlneck sweater, and maybe even pranced around a bit. #mamalikey  It does require a nude cami though, because it’s a touch sheer.
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
Now let’s talk shoes…these were our faves (along with the patent pumps).

Over-the-Knee Boots – comfortable height & lightweight to walk in
Suede Sandal – perfect transitional shoe & great price! Love the taupe, too.
Open-Toe Bootie – transitional bootie with a bit of edge, great with dresses & jeans
Cut-Out Bootie – love the low ankle & cut-outs. I’m deciding between gray & khaki. Size down half-size.
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
Perforated Bootie – extremely cushioned footbed & go-with-everything style. Size down half-size.
Buckle Bootie – love the buckle & heel height, but the toe is a little tight
Snakeskin Booties – gorgeous in person & easily dressed up or down
Peep-Toe Bootie – another fun transitional bootie with a slightly taller shaft
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

Next up is active wear…I don’t look at anything other than Zella. There’s just no reason, it’s my favorite brand. They are extremely comfortable, wash & dry well, and always hold their shape (no sagging or pinching). And let’s face it, they’re super cute.

Fit Tip: I wear an XS in the bottoms, but size up to a small in the tops because I prefer more room to move around.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

And finally (I promise we’re almost done!!), I wanted to include some cute new things for those of you who aren’t Nordstrom cardholders (the sale opens to the public next Friday!). I’ve got a couple of beachy trips coming up, and this vibrant floral twist-neck dress totally caught my eye. It would be really pretty on you taller girls.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

This sweet little dress is so soft, but made of a thick, sturdy cotton. I love the eyelet trim, and slightly longer length.

Fit Tip: There’s not a lot of give in the bodice because of the eyelet, so I’d recommend sizing up one.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

I was totally smitten with this crochet-trimmed tank, and the easy shape. The back is adorable, too, but I wouldn’t recommend it for busty girls.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

I must be having a moment with embroidery because I fell for this lacy romper, too. The back has a fun overlay, and it easily dresses up for evenings.

Fit Tip: Size up one, especially if you’re long-torsoed or have a bootie.

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016
This surplus romper is a grown-up’s romper…if that makes any sense. It shows just enough skin, and the shorts are slightly longer. I love the roll-tab sleeves, too.
Fit Tip: I sized up to a small in these pics, but my regular size would be a better fit.
Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

Whoa nelly, I told you this was a doozy of a post!! Can you tell Mama Sugarplum and I had the best day though?! This woman taught me to be kind, always look for the positive, and to love life (and shopping!). I couldn’t love her more, or be more grateful she’s my mom!

Hi Sugarplum | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2016

I have more to show you, but I’m sick to death of myself, so that will have to wait for another day. I hope this post has been helpful, and you’re able to take advantage of these great prices. What are your favorite pieces? Isn’t my mom the absolute cutest?! Happy weekend, lovebugs!

Leave a Comment

48 Comments

  1. Sabrina wrote:

    I ordered the gray booties yesterday and I'm swooning over the black peep-toe shoes and so glad you featured them! They look stunning with leggings!!! I may order those today. 😀

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  2. Mix and Match Mama wrote:

    Cassie! Your mom! Shut the front door! She is ADORABLE! You two could be sisters!! I need to know both of your secrets for looking so freaking fantastic!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
    • Lindsey Williams wrote:

      I agree!!!! The first photo of your Mama I did a double take thinking you got a new sassy haircut!!

      Posted 7.15.16 Reply
    • Jen Robbins wrote:

      Same here, Lindsey!! 🙂

      Posted 7.16.16 Reply
  3. Megan // Honey We're Home wrote:

    You and your Mom could not be any cuter Cass! Love seeing BOTH of you in this post! 🙂

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  4. Sheaffer {Pinterest Told Me To} wrote:

    Seriously. Your mom oozes DARLING. And the two of you together? #doubledarling You guys look like you had so much fun and managed to find so many amazing things! Loved her in that black and red sleeveless top…and I certainly hope you got yourself that grey cashmere wrap. You look so chic (and comfy) in it!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  5. Jo-Lynne Shane wrote:

    Great wrap up! I love seeing what everyone else was drawn to. 🙂

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  6. marmee meza wrote:

    What an inspiration. I am your mom's age so pls include her seldom for inspiration. Both look adorable. Thanks!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  7. Tammy wrote:

    Great post. Loved seeing your mom enjoying it with you – she's beautiful! You two look like you have a great relationship, and that's something to cherish, for sure.

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  8. Beth wrote:

    You and your mom are adorable!!! I've already spent too much, and now I need more!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  9. April Parrish wrote:

    Great post that was super helpful! The closest Nordstrom for me is 2 hours away, but I'm headed that way shortly!!!!
    Love your dressing room diaries and your Mom made it even better! Your mom is beautiful and has the cutest hair cut! You favor her a lot! Thanks for sharing and have a blessed day!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  10. Stacey wrote:

    I am stunned by how much you and your mom look alike! Just gorgeous. 🙂

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  11. Kathy Olson wrote:

    I love that little collared dress on you. You look so good in dresses. I loved the halter top and skirt on you, too.
    Your mom is so pretty, just like you!
    I ordered those over the knee boots yesterday. The price was too good to pass up.

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  12. Anonymous wrote:

    Such a great post. I read every day and obsess over your DRDs but we are built very opposite so it's hard to relate. I could never go braless. I mean, I could… but I'd probably be arrested or asked to leave anywhere I went. #overshoulderbolderholder
    I hope you include Mama SP in lots of future DRDs!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  13. The Stantons wrote:

    Magnificent post!! I know it had to be exhausting but I still wanted more!! Well done!! I have a ton of items from this post in my shopping bag. You did the work..and I got to shop with coffee. You are awesome!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  14. Susan wrote:

    I loved seeing your mom in these clothes! As a woman more your mom's age and size it was very helpful to see the comparison between you two. I love your posts, and hope you will include your mom more often!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  15. Kim wrote:

    Love this post.. your mom and you are precious… You should do this more often..

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  16. Unknown wrote:

    You should do this more often! Y'all are a great team!!!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  17. Erin @ Crafts and Sutch wrote:

    I love a good shopping spree with my mom! Isn't it the best?! Your momma is simply adorable! You favor her so much! Thank you for finding a few things I haven't seen yet. I love the ruffle sleeve and neck top and the black and white dress! I just added both to my cart (taking my total item count up to 24 EEK!). Have a wonderful weekend!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  18. Christina wrote:

    You and your mom are adorable! I love your great finds! I got the wayf floral ruffle top, Kate spade earrings, barefoot dreams circle cardigan and a new bra. ☺️ Hope to see mama sp in more dressing room diary post.

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  19. natasha {schue love} wrote:

    I had to do a double take when I saw your mom…I thought you cut your hair out of the corner of my eye! Great genes!! And super cute outfits!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  20. lisa wrote:

    Hi Cassie,

    You and your Mom – adorable. Since she may be more my age, I'd love to see more work wear fashions from her if we are in the same type work.

    Thanks for sharing

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  21. Jacqueline Lehnertz wrote:

    You and your mom are both so gorgeous! Thank you for another great post. I placed a Nordstrom order yesterday, but now have more things to buy. 🙂

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  22. Kylie wrote:

    Well this was my most favorite Dressing Room Diaries yet! Your mom is so adorable (and you two are twins)! It is really nice to see the clothes on two different body types…especially since I am probably closer in body type to your mom than you. If your mom is anything like mine, she was probably really hesitant to do this with you and have her pictures posted. Please pass along the praise – she is beautiful and looks fantastic is every piece! Of course she bought everything! Much love from KC.

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  23. Kellyann Rohr wrote:

    Loved seeing you and your cute mom try on clothes, looked like a lot of fun!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  24. Meghan wrote:

    You and your mom are absolutely adorable!!! And seriously twins! Thank you so much for this post, it was incredibly helpful!! I have now added even MORE to my shopping cart!! 🙂

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  25. Kerry wrote:

    This is by far my favorite dressing room diaries post yet. I love your energy and your humor. You inspire me. I also loved seeing Mama Sugarplum make a guest appearance. She likely is closer to my age so I loved seeing how your style can look good on all ages. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  26. M {livinlife941.blogspot.com} wrote:

    You and your momma are adorable! Loved this post and all the outfit ideas!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  27. VB_BG wrote:

    you and your momma are the cutest! seriously.

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  28. Jenny B wrote:

    Super cute post! Loved your mom, she totally looks like Jenny Garth of 90210!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  29. TSB wrote:

    What a fun post! Thanks so much for sharing your top picks! So many cute things 🙂

    Your post with your mama touched my heart this morning. I lost my mom/best friend last April unexpectedly and I miss her so much. Going shopping was one of our most favorite things to do together! I'm a mama of two boys, so I'm afraid my boys (and my husband) don't share my passion or enthusiasm for all things Nordstrom.

    Anyway, I loved seeing you and your mama having fun and trying on all the clothes!!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  30. Michele Anderson wrote:

    Loved seeing your Mom!! You 2 are so cute and adding her style and aesthetic was a fun change. I think YOU are adorable, but you are also very different from my body type so having your Mom try on was a great additional point of view. Thanks, I look forward to your posts everyday.

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  31. Darcy Sexson wrote:

    Gahhh – I put in an order yesterday and now I just did another based on your suggestions! 🙂 #sorrynotsorry

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  32. Mary Kath wrote:

    Okay, ladies! This was AWESOME! I'm more your mom's age and I LOVED seeing outfits on her! THIS WAS GREAT! Please include her every Friday. She has a new career. Thanks!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  33. Amy wrote:

    I just have to say that you & your mama are the absolute cutest!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  34. Anonymous wrote:

    #somuchforgenetics made me snort laugh! I'm right with you girl:(
    Love your mom in the red sweater, such a pretty color on her.

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  35. Shelley - Crazy Wonderful wrote:

    LOVE you and your mom together in this post!!! You two are just gorgeous!

    Posted 7.15.16 Reply
  36. Annemarie Byrnes wrote:

    Love this post! Like other followers I am more your Mom's age and size and I love seeing your style translated in living color for us! Looks like you two had a fun day. Please do more DRD with your Mom. As I was scrolling down I thought you cut your hair! Your Mom is a beauty and you certainly take after her.

    Posted 7.16.16 Reply
  37. Anita Rudzinski wrote:

    Your mom is so cute!!! Thank you for having her model. Y'all look like sister. I thought you had cut your hair. I am 62 and love her style. Thank her for me!!!

    Posted 7.16.16 Reply
  38. PATI CLARK wrote:

    You & your mom are sooo cute !!!!! Look like you both had alot of fun 🙂

    Posted 7.16.16 Reply
  39. Rizwan Naeem wrote:

    beautiful site i really like it.
    http://www.multidesigning.com

    Posted 7.16.16 Reply
  40. Lisa Lutz wrote:

    Loved this post! You and your mom are too cute.

    Posted 7.16.16 Reply
  41. Queen In Between wrote:

    Oh my goodness…could your mom be any freaking cuter?!! My 10 year old was just sitting with me and thought it was your sister. 🙂 Can't wait for my order to arrive…picked alot of the same to try. You have definitely convinced me on a few more items as they look WAY more adorable on you than they did online. So wish I lived a little closer to an actual store!

    Posted 7.16.16 Reply
  42. nedda salehi wrote:

    These were great picks And i love that You included your mom especially in similar outfits so we can see the differences. You are both beautiful!

    Posted 7.16.16 Reply
  43. nedda salehi wrote:

    These were great picks And i love that You included your mom especially in similar outfits so we can see the differences. You are both beautiful!

    Posted 7.16.16 Reply
  44. joen wrote:

    Thanks I know I needs a pair of those booties! Maybe an open toe pair too!

    Posted 7.17.16 Reply
  45. Angela Ross wrote:

    Favorite DRD yet! Im closer to your Moms age and we have the same body type. Yall are adorable!

    Posted 7.18.16 Reply
  46. Kristen wrote:

    Looks like you and your Mom had a blast! And found some awesome stuff too! 🙂

    Posted 7.24.16 Reply