Winter Casual: Talbots cashmere (& review) + spotted pants

Talbots cable turtleneck in Petite P (similar starts in XXS), H+M pants (last seen here) and gloves

Burberry coat, Chanel WOC, YSL wood heel pumps (similar), 10mm pearl earrings from eBay

Just a quick post today of a recent weekend outfit - I wore this to a triple date brunch in the South End on one of our windiest afternoons. No hair tie resulted in constant spatting hair out of my mouth and mostly photos like this:
This winter I've been in dire need of warm sweaters, but have been patiently waiting for quality ones at a good price. I've been wearing my lone cable crewneck from 2011 to pieces, even though the material is quite itchy and requires a layer. After trying a few similarly itchy or pilling-prone options from H&M, I swore off fast fashion brands for a staple that I'd ideally want wear for years to come.

I don't remember how I ended up on the Talbots site (it rarely happens), but I stumbled across this cable turtleneck that looked remarkably similar to a J.Crew option I've been admiring for months. The J.Crew had sold out in my preferred size/color early on, even at $60 for viscose/nylon/wool blend - and this one was the same price for 100% cashmere. I was late to the sale and may have grabbed the last one, but in case it comes back the style # is 252490, $49.99 (from $250) in "English Mustard."

I would say that Talbots in general is for the more mature woman, around ages 40-60+ (although public perception is apparently even older). Despite this, the quality of the brand has been consistently good in my experience, and there are gems and bargains to be found. On the accessory front, I have spoken highly of their shoes starting in sz 5 and non-tarnishing costume jewelry (worn here, here, and here).

Their apparel, however, is a little harder for the younger demographic to pull off. Talbots has an extensive petite line that goes down to a size Petite P (XS) or 0 (the P0 is online only), but unfortunately most things I've tried on were cut very generously. This sweater was the first item I've found that fits fairly slim, like between an XXS-XS from other stores, but even Nick's first comment was "looks old person-ish." I love the soft cashmere quality and the casual fit, and will just be sure not to pair it with my velcro SAS shoes.

Talbots wrap blouse, before alterations ("after" not yet ready...), Ann Taylor skirt from last season: 

The second item I picked up (which also disappeared online in Petite) is this jersey faux-wrap top for $10. A jersey top should be fairly fitted, but this was oversized throughout and long on me in Petite P. I initially put it in my "returns" pile, but later decided to keep and DIY alter after seeing how versatile it was with items in my closet. I've had many outfits that could use a wine-colored top, and this wrap style adds a nice, feminine look.

For Talbots sizing reference, this jersey blouse in Petite P measured 15" shoulder to shoulder, 24" sleeve length, 22" total length, 17.75" armpit to armpit, and 16" across the waist. I slimmed both sleeves and down the sides of the torso, and will need to add more ruching to the shoulders to make them narrower. As such, I would recommend Talbots clothing mostly to those who are at least one size up from me and a little taller. It's too bad about the sizing, as I really do like their quality and colorful yet conservative options for work (and sales!).

Readers - Have you had luck with Talbots clothing? I'd love to hear your experiences with their sizing, quality and styles.