Nordstrom Petites: Cognac leather jacket and grey skinny jeans

Earlier this month, I had the chance to try on my favorite looks from Nordstrom’s Fall Petites Playbook. Browsing through the outfits, I was pleased to discover some brands that I’ve never heard of before. I receive reader requests to show options outside of more well-known petite lines and was excited to try something new. First up is this ensemble from the “City Slicker” look. As an advocate of practical and comfortable fashion, Nick was rather fond of this more casual outfit for our weekend activities around town.

At the top of my wishlist this season was a versatile leather jacket that required minimal alterations. I had brought one to my tailor a while back, but he declined to work on any aspect other than sleeves (which is a challenge in itself if metal zippers are present). The Petite P of this jacket is described to fit like a 00-0 for women 5’4″ and under, and I found it to be true to size. The brand is new to me, but I was impressed by the weight, fit, and quality (sturdy leather plus smooth 100% silk lining) of this piece.

Over a thin layer, the jacket fits casually; over a warm sweater, it fits snugly. If zippered up, the key shoulder and torso areas are a surprisingly close fit. The only alterations I need on this jacket is sleeve length (folded under about 2″ in these photos), and my tailor will be pleased to see no zippers at the end!

The tee underneath is by a brand called Signorelli, which I Google’d for more info. They specialize in casual knits and manufacture items in the USA, with 5% of all sales going towards one of 8 selected causes. The 50% cotton/50% modal blend is super soft, and the fit is on the looser/slouchier side. 

The Big Star jeans in this look are currently available only in 25 Petite and up (although in Spring 2014, they will be offered starting in sz 23!), and I usually take a 24 in denim. As a result, the fit of these on me is more relaxed than skinny, but still slim. The length is slightly longer than what I’m used to with petite denim, which should better suit those around 5’2″ to 5’4″ who typically waffle between lengths. I like the stone gray color as a softer alternative to black or basic blue.

For reference, measurements of each piece:
– Kenna-T Moto Jacket in Petite P: 13.75″ across shoulders, 15.5″ armpit to armpit, 14″ across waist, 20″ length down back center, 24″ sleeve length, 5.25″ widest part of center sleeve. The leather has a bit of weight and the jacket is fully lined, so please factor those in when assessing the measurements.
– Signorelli tee in Petite P: 13″ across shoulders, 16″ across armpits, 22.5″ front length, 27″ at longest point in back (high-low hem style). Neck drop 6.5″ and material is slightly sheer – I always go with a nude-colored bra.
– Big Star “Alex” Stretch Skinny Jeans sz 25P: 28.5″ inseam, 13.5″ across waist, 16.5″ across widest part of hips, 8″ front rise.