Transitional Summer: Red Pants, Camel + Cap Toe Pumps

redcameldots4Ann Taylor refined cropped pants, DIY polka dot top, Target shoes, Chanel sunglasses

Whenever I find a pairing that works, I tend to get lazy and wear it on repeat. I loved the look of red pants with cap toes, and indulged in the same outfit twice this month. I can see myself wearing it more for transitioning into cooler fall days.

Some of you may remember these cheap Target heels, on which I Sharpie-d some black cap toes (inspired by the Corso Como quilted pumps). I also planned on finding matching beige paint to cover the stacked wooden heels, but lost motivation. These was meant to be a temporary fix while I hunted for a quality version, but who knew the right pair would be so hard to find? I’m hoping for leather pumps with: 3.5-4″ heels, almond or pointy toes, beige/camel base and same-colored heels, black cap toes, and preferably under $200. Please let me know if you come across such a pair!
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Below: Old favorite lace-print LOFT tee (similar, another lace-print option in petite for 75% off)

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redcameldots3 Looking at these photos, I realized that these pants look a bit baggy in the thighs. I hope that slight slimming in that area will improve the fit. Please refer to this post for more information on the fit and measurements of these pants. redcameldots I wanted to show a photo of this handbag worn with its adjustable strap (one of my favorite features). Only the small and medium sizes of this bag come with a strap, which was a huge deciding factor for me. This bag measures 14″ across, and I feel like it’s the biggest width I can handle on a structured bag without it overwhelming my 5-feet tall frame. That’s not to say I don’t have bags bigger than this (to fit my clunky, unwieldy laptop), but I recognize that bags wider than 14″ start to look like they want to eat me for dinner, especially from the side view. redcameldots2Readers – How do you determine when a bag is disproportionate to your frame? What is your cutoff size?
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85 Comments

  1. Anonymous wrote:

    Daily Buzz Style dedicated a whole post to cap shoes: http://style.dailybuzz.com/ … 🙂

    Posted 8.18.12 Reply
  2. mirigoround wrote:

    Lovely lip shade to tie together the look! I found target girls cherokee khaki denim in wide array of colors in sz 12.. Still debating on thfit but I love the red version for $15.

    Posted 8.18.12 Reply
  3. RedRover wrote:

    "Whenever I find a pairing that works, I tend to get lazy and wear it on repeat."

    I agree with this so much! I have a bad habit of doing that, which really makes an outfit that I once liked become boring later on. I'm always afraid of trying new things with outfits too though because I really have no idea how to pair things in a different/unique way. That's why it's nice to be able to come to your blog and see someone have a different take on pairing clothes. You do a good job with that. 🙂

    Posted 8.18.12 Reply
  4. Whitney Moore wrote:

    Can't wait to try that shoe idea!! You are so creative, and chic with this outfit. ~ L&W;
    http://www.thedoubletakegirls.com

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  5. akauf wrote:

    First of all, I want to say how much I appreciate your blog! I have been following it for a year and a half now and it has been so helpful. I am exactly your size(5ft, 92-94lbs), so it makes it so easy to order things online once I can see how they fit you 🙂

    Anyway, I just started a new job a few months ago, and the chair in my office is an ergonomic chair meant for an average-sized person. My back has been bothering me quite a bit lately. I was just curious what you (or anyone else reading this) may use at your desk.

    Thank you!
    Amanda

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  6. akauf wrote:

    First of all, I want to say how much I appreciate your blog! I have been following it for a year and a half now and it has been so helpful. I am exactly your size(5ft, 92-94lbs), so it makes it so easy to order things online once I can see how they fit you 🙂

    Anyway, I just started a new job a few months ago, and the chair in my office is an ergonomic chair meant for an average-sized person. My back has been bothering me quite a bit lately. I was just curious what you (or anyone else reading this) may use at your desk.

    Thank you!
    Amanda

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  7. My Dressy Ways wrote:

    Jean, love this outfit, as usual! So simple but sophisticated. Curious about how the shoes look in person. I've seen Love Maegan paint her shoes with nail polish too. They look fantastic in pictures, but could you pass it off in real life? I think I'd be really conscious of it looking like permanent marker! Lol

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  8. LoveStyleHappiness wrote:

    I don't think i necessarily have a cut off size. It kinda depends on the shape/style of the bag. Usually I'll know once i see it on me. And then I always ask the hubby for a confirmation.

    Maggie

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  9. Jennifer wrote:

    I don't usually comment, but here http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/classiques-entier-riley-pump/3253012?origin=PredictiveSearch&contextualcategoryid;=0&fashionColor;=LUGGAGE%2FBLACK&resultback;=190 is a shoe that might fit the bill. I have seen them on Wendy's Lookbook and they look great in person too!

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  10. Patricia Flores wrote:

    Now that's what a call a great DIY project: easy, not so fussy and great looking 🙂

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  11. Anonymous wrote:

    You SHARPIED Target shoes… omfg. I had to do a double-take to realize that. You're basically my hero.

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  12. Anonymous wrote:

    I second the Classiques Entier recommendation…it sounds like these pumps meet all of your requirements, Jean =)
    ~Mellee

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  13. Anonymous wrote:

    That is so funny, I just tried those EXACT quilted shoes on yesterday at Nordstrom Rack!

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  14. Anonymous wrote:

    Your styling is phenomenal! But is it just me, or are those pants just a teeny bitty too short? It seems that it would be more flattering if it is let out an inch

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  15. Eva Wu wrote:

    i love such a style!

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  16. Amyyyyyyy wrote:

    j crew has really cute capped toe pumps but they're in black with beige caps.

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  17. Kimberly wrote:

    You look amazing as always. This is my first time commenting, but I've been following your blog for a long while. I always get inspired by your ensembles.

    I can't believe you drew in the cap toes on your heels. That's such a great idea! I used to color in scratches on my leather shoes/boots with black sharpies, but up close they always looked super fake? I guess maybe due to the contrast between the ACTUAL leather and damaged spots.

    I also really love your top! I just bought a polka-dot skirt at Forever 21 the other day.

    Anywho, I'd love it if you could drop by my blog and offer some tips to a new blogger! I started posting a year ago, but had so stop when grad school got really crazy. I literally just started up again!

    Can't wait to see more!
    http://sensiblestylista.blogspot.com/

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  18. Gillian @ Money After Graduation wrote:

    Love the shoes ! But I love the red pants even more !! Great outfit.

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  19. Princess Martha wrote:

    Anything you could vision a Mom using as a diaper bag is too big….but other than that, it's all fair play 😉
    Loved your DYI shoes!!!
    You looked great in this outfit!!
    XOXO

    http://www.princessmartha.com

    http://www.facebook.com/princessmarthablog

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  20. Joan wrote:

    Hi Jean, love your blog! Have you checked out L.K. Bennett? They have a classic cap toe patent pump that I've been eyeing for a while. Trying to save up for it. There's a L.K. Bennett boutique in NYC at the Columbus Circle Time Warner Center.

    http://www.lkbennett.com/shoes/courts/CCBRUTON214LEATHER – retails for £185.00

    Nordstrom's website also carries the lower-heel version of this pump but they are out of the small sizes:
    http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/l-k-bennett-bunty-pump/3281620?origin=PredictiveSearch&contextualcategoryid;=0&fashionColor;=TAUPE%2F+BLACK&resultback;=300

    Hope this helps!
    Joan

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  21. Aishoo wrote:

    I sooo want that polka dot top of yours.. its lovely.. but i know u thrifted it 🙁

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  22. Lindsay wrote:

    Have you tried Ivanka Trump Gurdia? I think you have a pair of louboutins that are similar.

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  23. Elissa wrote:

    that's the perfect size bag for you. i saw pink peonies carrying the large size and it was HUGEEEE

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  24. ♥ Natalie wrote:

    Really, really pretty! <3
    I love this outfit. The neutral color paired with those bright red pants. I love it!

    ♡♡♡

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  25. Kimberly wrote:

    Love the polka dotted top with the bright pants and what a clever idea with the Sharpie for those cap-toe pumps! Would love to see how you slim the sides of those pants because I have a similar pair that are just slightly baggy and am not sure how to do it. 🙂

    http://www.pennypincherfashion.com

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  26. Suzie Q wrote:

    I love the look of colored trousers with a polka dot top. I love your LOFT top too. I don't have a personal cut off bag size for me, I'm a sucker for big bags since I love being able to lug around of stuff, just in case =) However, I find big bags look better with holding the handles rather than using the shoulder strap.

    xoxo,
    http://www.StyleCueBySuzieQ.com

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  27. glamBlouse wrote:

    You can go to the endless website or shopstyle to narrow down a search on the pumps. I too am looking for a pair of black and nude pumps with less than 4 inch heel, pointy toe, quality leather or patent. On topic – Although I am 5'5, I have found that I love the small crossbody bags. Those huge satchels are not really my cup of tea anymore (especially since I do not have items to put in them). I love your bag collection though.

    When you get a sec, please check out my latest post!

    GLAMBLOUSE
    http://www.glamblouse.blogspot.com

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  28. Tiffany wrote:

    I had never thought about sizing bags until I read your blog ! =) If I liked it, was original and the right fit, then I would get it. And sure enough, some of the bags I own do look like they eat me up. I'll be sure to look for measurements in the future !

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  29. Anonymous wrote:

    You did the coloring so well lol if I tried that it would be a mess.

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  30. Demmy wrote:

    Love your top and the pants. Such a pretty combination. Love your bag too.xoxo Demmy

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  31. Unknown wrote:

    Hi Jean, I adore your blog, and enjoy watching all of your youtube video. I love your style because it shows you are a smart, active and successful person. You know how to dress smart, in addition to dress pretty. I particularly like your video on how to choose formal clothes. Please continue the second episode. This time, if you can talk about how to choose the suitable attire for interviews, it would be very helpful, as I am going to finish my graduate degree and will have lots of interviews coming. Thanks, Tien

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  32. Joy wrote:

    the sharpie-d pumps sure don't look bad! what a great idea. Great outfits & good luck in your shoe search.

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  33. audrinajulia wrote:

    I remember I ordered LongChamp lm large long handle on line and when it arrive I'm eaten by the huge size.I should stick to the medium size of those kind.On larger size I'm always looking for 10-12 inches across with wider top to fit all my stuff. I'm 5" flat like you so mostly my bag size is medium with 12 inches length and with maximum of 10 inches in height. I think that size better fits my frame.

    I love your prada tote and you look much more stunning on the second photo.Looks like you always have a good hair day.:)

    audrinajulia.blogspot.com

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  34. Katie wrote:

    i have the zara plaited shopper that cher mentions too (actually, i see it SO much around London, i think a lot of people bought it!!). I don't really have a cut-off for big bags, i think the larger it is, it often looks a little wacky, but in a good way, like a lot of high fashion looks a bit ridiculous anyway but that's why i love it!

    another zara tip: i have camel heels with black cap toes that i got from zara about 3 months ago, maybe you could find a good pair on ebay?

    katie x

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  35. Lloyd Lim wrote:

    I don't know why replacing the clunky laptop with a MacBook Air is an option. =P

    – Lloyd

    StyleHills – Discover & follow fabulous fashion bloggers. iPhone app coming soon!

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  36. Michelle wrote:

    Loved seeing this top again! It is so pretty!

    I will keep an eye out for quality black cap toes for you! 🙂

    Loving your lip color.

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  37. Dominique L. wrote:

    I think you look amazing! The bag is my favorite piece here. I've always wanted to find a perfect bag to splurge on but I've had no luck! Any suggestions?

    http://www.chasingskylines.com

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  38. newpetite wrote:

    Those red pants look amazing on you. I agree, you'll have to slim the thighs a bit. Love how you've paired it with the DIY blouse and the Loft top!

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  39. lin wrote:

    you look great in both outfits. red really becomes you. 😉 very pretty and classy. i love your prada bag, that was a good investment.

    i don't really have a size for handbags. if it looks nice, classic style, right color(s), and design then i would get it.

    Posted 8.17.12 Reply
  40. The Little Dust Princess wrote:

    I bought two pairs of cropped pants from BR recently and they fit sort of like how those red pants fit on you. The thighs were really wide and the waist a little big. Oddly enough, the black pair fit a little slimmer than the khaki and I wanted to return the latter. My bf really liked both pairs and told me to try shrinking them and thankfully, I listened to him because shrinking them worked! I took before/after pics so I'll try to remember to post them. They shrank 1/2 inch to 1 inch all around! Amazing 😀

    P.S. diggin' the b&w; tops with the red pants. : )

    Posted 8.16.12 Reply
  41. Lauren wrote:

    I have been searching for the same cap-toe pumps for a while and have resigned that this is the closest I'm going to find: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/classiques-entier-riley-pump/3253012?origin=keywordsearch&contextualcategoryid;=0&fashionColor;=LUGGAGE%2FBLACK&resultback;=2991
    They are reasonably priced, covered heel, the right beige color but just pointy toe. I'm thinking pointy toe looks great in leg lengthening and is just as classic (in my opinion). So while not perfect I think these are what i'm going to go with personally.

    Hope that helps! Amazing outfit and stunning bag

    Posted 8.16.12 Reply
  42. lisacng wrote:

    You're hilarious — you repeat a look twice a month and you think that's too much! I repeat outfits once a week!!!! Not exciting, I know! Love your DIY top and those Sharpied-pumps look great. Hope you find a good quality pair you like! As for bag size, I also don't buy anything that overwhelms my figure either. I never had an exact measurement for cut-off but I guess no wider than the length of my waist-to-knee? Haha. I dunno.

    Posted 8.16.12 Reply
  43. phiphis blog wrote:

    you are so classic and pretty in this outfit!!! i can't believe you sharpied those shoes!!! 😛

    to figure out sizing, i do a number of things. if i'm lucky enough to try in person, i go to the store and either have someone take a picture of it or take one to refer to. that's a good gauge for me. otherwise, i take a ruler, and draw it out! 😛 then, i figure out what the bag is for (formal or work) and see whether it fits the function and whether all you can see is bag or not. i don't have a size per se though – it's more on the look.

    i'm so happy for you that you got this prada. it is awesome – and perfect for you and on you!! xox P

    Posted 8.16.12 Reply
  44. Jessica Zeng wrote:

    J. Crew has some cap toe shoes. I've been eyeing these for a while: http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/shoes/pumpsandheels/PRDOVR~11806/11806.jsp

    but the colors may be the opposite of what you were looking for! I've tried the suede ones in store and they're super comfortable, but I wanted to wait and see if they would come out with ones that are all leather (and preferably one color).

    But anyway you look fabulous as usual and very inspirational! 🙂 I really want to get the camel bag now.

    Posted 8.16.12 Reply
  45. Miss Cozzy wrote:

    Well, that is the perfect outfit for this time of year. I will definitely be attempting to assemble my own version over the weekend. Thanks!

    Posted 8.16.12 Reply
  46. Miss Cozzy wrote:

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    Posted 8.16.12 Reply
  47. Cher wrote:

    Oh man, I love big bags, so I have a very generous cut-off size. I go as big as I can get away with, which is probably a few inches larger than your Prada tote. I did order a full size Zara plaited shopper a few months back and the measurements were something like 16x20x9in and it def. looked like it would eat me AND a toddler. Sometimes though, with all the things I have to carry, I just have to accept that some days I will look ridiculous with an oversized handbag. =/

    Posted 8.16.12 Reply
  48. Anonymous wrote:

    I love you how you combine DIY projects with high-end accessories! Fabulous!

    Posted 8.16.12 Reply
  49. Gena Palmieri wrote:

    I love your color combo! You look too pretty!(:
    Gena
    http://www.themodpeach.blogspot.com

    Posted 8.16.12 Reply

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