I paid a quick visit to NYC last week for both work and blog projects, and loved getting to catch up with old friends at favorite spots. Highlight meal of the trip was at Maharlika (on an unexpectedly gorgeous day), which I recommend if you find yourself in the east village. Nick and I cook a pretty mean brunch at home so we don’t usually get it at restaurants, but exceptions are made for their Filipino-style silog breakfasts – fragrant garlic fried rice topped with a perfect egg and side of protein…happy sigh.
I packed this outfit for a meeting, choosing pieces that could also serve for going out or casual wandering. The turtleneck and faux leather jacket are great transitional pieces that travel well without wrinkling. The skirt is conservative in style and length, but the beautiful print makes it more exciting than my average pencil skirt, and something I’d wear onto dinner or drinks.
For those who have not tried WHBM sizing before, the fit of their petites line feels consistent with other American work wear brands for most items. I tailored this skirt (size 00 petite) about one size down in the waist and hips to fit. Because there is no waistband and there are seams down both sides, the job was easy enough for me to DIY at home (although the lining did complicate things a bit). You can see the subtle difference in the before and after photo below. Slimming the sides ~2″ raised the waistline closer to my natural waist and the hem to right at my knees.
In comparison, I also tried on a dress from their instantly slimming line in the same size, which ran at least one whole size small. I needed to size up for it to be work-appropriate and the length hit 2″ above my knees, so I’m curious how the regular sizing would fit. The material was very stretchy with an interior almost like banded layers of shapewear. If you are looking for a fitted LBD (or LWD), I’d suggest giving dresses from that line a try (also see Sydney’s review). Both items I tried were good quality and fully lined, and I’m already eying new arrivals like this charming dress with (removable) bow belt and piped tweed jacket.
Below is a quick snapshot before heading home. This purse was a gift from a generous friend who knows my style well – it came to me monogrammed (!) and also comes in black and cream on final sale. It’s a great size, and the material is like a saffiano leather that’s durable enough for me to haul my laptop in and travel with. As an FYI I do want to note the metal top clasp does not stay closed. 
I also wanted to do a quick review on this H&M; drape blouse, since a number of you have asked for an update. Thank you ago to the ladies who suggested this as an alternative to the Pleione one at Nordstrom (see review). This is the fit of a sz 2: 
I did decide to keep the H&M; version as the shorter length from all angles fit better on my shorter frame, and the price point made me less concerned about likely spills and stains. However, there are noticeable differences in quality with the Pleione one winning on that front. Although both blouses are sheer, the sleeves and back on the H&M; are very see through. The material of the H&M; close up looks cheaper, almost styrafoam-y. The material of the Pleione one has good weight and drapes more smoothly, bearing greater resemblance to silk. If I weren’t a perpetual klutz and lover of bright red sriracha sauce, I might’ve opted for the Pleione version.
Amazing outfit gives a trendy magnificent look. IDreammart is specialized in providing fashionable Authentic Chinese Dress with an awesome verities.
Great outfit and review, Jean! It's a shame Uniqueen is out of business. I loved their items (even though I didn't own anything from them), but their clothes were a bit expensive.
no worries, maybe after I dry it, it will shrink a little… the hip and legs fit perfectly…it's always so hard for me to find a pair of jeans fits because I am short, but I am glad i found this one, and the price is unbeatable too…thank you thank you…;)
I know, I was so sad to hear the news!
Sher, thanks so much for saying hello! Best wishes from this side of the world to yours : )
Great to hear that their quality lasts! I feel that's becoming more of a rarity these days. Thank you for the tip on the rewards program – I didn't notice it but free shipping is a great perk.
Hi Terese! It's by a brand called Blank NYC and I got it at Nordstrom. Their items are faux leather.
Of course you would know your Filipino eats : ) I'm convinced to hit up Jeepney next – if only the kamayan dinners weren't at such limited times!
Hi Sandy! I am so glad you like the jeans! I'm bummed to hear they are a little loose in the waist, but I guess the problem with many items is if they fit perfectly in the waist they'll then be uncomfortably snug in the hips or thighs. Mine fit in the waist but are borderline very fitted in those areas which is why I wish I sized up.
PS – it's an extra 40% off now with EXTRA40
Sorry Cindy! I fixed the link, or you can search J Crew Claremont tote. If they don't have the color you're looking for, check back early mornings eastern time as they restock any returned merchandise.
Aw thank you and I hope you like the necklace! I owe my thanks to an anon reader who pointed out the restock…otherwise would still be borrowing my friends' on weekly rotation.
Oo, someone seconded the VC recommendation as well. I'll have to check out Nordies rack to look for it on sale!
Thank you! I wear a wireless skin-colored bra (got mine from victoria's secret).
Hi there – unfortunately I don't. I haven't seen coupon codes before or where discounts could be had. If you are thinking about ordering, I wanted to note that the lens are not completely opaque (so someone looking at you can slightly see your eyes). I just wanted to point that out since I noticed it's typical of many of their sunglasses.
Thank you very much for letting me know! I will check it out if I find myself near a F21 store.
Steamer, or hang it in your bathroom while taking a hot shower!
Beautiful outfit! I love the city pictures!
What a stunning outfit, perfect for Spring. You have such a classy style, Love it! Have a fab day.
http://jenessasheffield.wordpress.com/
Oh no, Uniqueen is out of business? I was thinking of buying a jacket for law school :(((((((
Hi Jean,
Love your blog. Like you I am petite, Asian and a CFA charterholder. I am from Manila and I am glad to know that you enjoyed your Filipino style silog breakfast. Next time try adobo, tinola and sinigang.
Great outfit as always! = )
Sher
Ladies,
SOS!
Allright, okay, the draping blouse is really nice (both Pleione and H&M;) but how do you iron such drapey things?? 🙂
http://www.modnaprawniczka.pl
Hi Jean,
Just to let you know, there's a stretch striped skirt at Forever 21 for $8.80 that's 95% cotton and 5% spandex. In my experience, stretch items at F21 tend to run small.So, you might have some luck with this.
http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category;=bottom_skirt&ProductID;=2000091710&VariantID;=