I tried on a few items from ASOS last month that didn’t quite work out for me, but I wanted to share quick reviews as their sizing is very petite-friendly. First up is this pleated dress (2 color options) which is actually in regular sizing, but fit like a glove. Oh how I wanted this to be a keeper. The silhouette was spot-on for me, with a snug torso and a flared skirt that was flattering without being too full. The back zipper was concealed, it’s fully lined, and the material had nice weight and structure to it. I felt shapely yet classic in it…however the neckline was unfortunately much too low-cut (trying to cover up some skin with a statement necklace here). It might be okay for date night, but I just don’t have many opportunities to show this much decolletage in my older age! It’s on sale for just $23 and free ship for anyone interested.
Sizing: I feel like ASOS sizes run at least 1-2 sizes smaller than US brands. I’m trying an ASOS US 0 / EUR 32 / UK regular here which was a snug fit. A standard EUR 32 from brands like ASOS and H&M; consistently fit pretty well or sometimes too small for me, so it’s unfortunate that in the US sizes labeled 00 petite (or J.Crew’s new xxxs and 000) still run bigger when you compare the two. The waistline of this dress was perfectly proportioned for shorter ladies and worked well on my 5′ height. On someone taller the waistline may be more empire-style, but on the flip side the neckline may be less low-cut (see model in the stock photo which they say is 5’9″…).
Measurements: When lying flat US 0 measures 15.5″ across the armpits, 11.5″ across the waist, 15.5″ from shoulder to waistline, and approx “33 total length. Material is 76% poly, 22% viscose, and 2% elastane and has stretch.
Next up is this bright maxi which I’ve had my eye on for ages, and would be perfect for a summer wedding or formal event. It could also be hemmed to be worn casually with flat sandals. The dress comes in this bright lime as well as a pale blush pink, both of which I liked online. It has these grecian-inspired strap/shoulder drapes which are romantic but I personally didn’t care for, however are an easy fix in my opinion. Looking at the construction close-up, those straps could easily be removed if so desired, and the opening can be stitched back up. Original drape sleeves:
The fit of a 00 petite was very fitted in the torso (the waistline was snug, so I probably could’ve sized up) with good proportions, and the length was right for a maxi with 3″ heels. What prevented this from being a keeper for me was the knit poly material. For a dress with this style and color, I was hoping for a lightweight, floaty chiffon-like material.
Measurements: When lying flat 00 petite / EUR 30 / UK 2 measures 14″ across the chest, 10″ across the waist, 51″ total length. Material (95% poly, 5% elastane) is very stretchy. Torso is lined and skirt is unlined.
Just a tip but as of today, Asos is having a 50% off sale and the lime green dress is only $30. Limited petite sizing, though!
Just curious. What bag/clutch would you have paired with the little black dress/leopard pumps combo?
Thanks for the recommendation Jean! I actually ordered the pleated ASOS dress in a Size 2. I just received it and at 5'1", it actually reaches down to my ankles. I'm not sure what happened there – perhaps someone forgot to hem it! The "coral" is also closer to a highlighter pink.
That mint bag and lime maxi dress are just so stunning and fresh! It's usually so hard to find maxi dresses for petite people, but I guess I should give ASOS a try!
Cynthia
http://www.pinchofchic.com
Hi there – I posted in detail above how I think ASOS sizing compares…take a look and at the measurements as well, hope it helps.
Hi Ashley! I'm in my late 20s : ) Yes you have a great memory…I absolutely love that yellow dress so often pop into ASOS to look for similar styles.
You have such a good memory for fashion! I've never heard of the brand so went to look it up…really like the structured and feminine dress silhouettes. The black chiffon is definitely a possibility to make it work (or one of those coverlettes that attach to the top of your bra and go across the front) for anyone interested.
Hi Linna! The yellow one is more neoprene, wet suit like and this one feels more like normal fabric but with medium weight. I prefer the fabric of this one since neoprene can get hot!
Thanks for always stopping by, Anu! Hope you have a fabulous weekend.
Hi Nancy! I prefer not to layer under cocktail dresses but that's definitely a possible solution for anyone else interested! I know they also make little patches of lace like fabric too for the sole purpose of covering up a lower neckline.
Beautiful !
Love your shoes, your dress, everything is nice !
http://www.laminutefashion.com
I love how picky you are about clothes. I've decided to pare down my already tight wardrobe and am using many of your techniques. Often, I'll ask my husband's opinion and his first question will be "how much did that cost"? Good fit shouldn't come second to price. It's not like I'll be posting a sign on my dress that says "yes, it's too short, but it was only $23". I'm starting to think, either it fits or it doesn't. And if it doesn't, can it/do I want to fix it?
Please continue to do those basics videos too. I'm taking the kids out to the museum and since it's 100 degrees I'm wearing shorts and a tee. But, thanks to you, the shorts are nicer, tee shirt is tucked, there's a belt and I'm wearing real shoes.
Beautiful dresses!
http://bellemelange.net/blog/
Your "older age" comment made me lol hehe. I look better in a v-neckline so I'm excited about this dress…and the price is amazing! Thanks for sharing! Hope they still have my size 🙂
Does anyone know how sizing works at ASOS? Are their US 0 true to size?
In the pics, that neckline doesn't look that low on the black dress. But it's also easily remedied with some lace or another creative idea.
Oh I love both dresses! I like the drapey sleeves on the maxi too. I feel like they make it look a little more feminine and goddess like. And what girl doesn't want to feel like a goddess? Ha.
clickclackdiaries.com
Love both dresses; will have to check out!
love how that lbd looks paired with the animal print heels. that cut suits you beautifully! xx. gigi. http://www.gigikkitchen.com
I love the way the neon maxi drapes on you! But what I really love is how cool the curtains look tied up in a knot in the background! Always love your interesting backdrops 🙂
The ASOS black dress looks pretty and sounds like good value with the fabric, lining and hidden zipper. If a thin black chiffon was added to the neckline (arm holes and hem?) to raise it, and you paired it with your statement necklace, maybe it could have worked out? It would be similar in idea to the dove grey Roksanda Ilincic dress the Duchess wore in 2012.
Hi Jean! I hope this isn't invasive, how old are you? The black dress looks great on you. It looks similar to the yellow dress you have.
Love how you styled the black dress with the pearls! So classy!
xx,
Diane || http://www.modernisticphoenix.blogspot.com
I am in love with both dresses! But that black one looks the best 🙂
http://neatly-packaged.com/
LOVE the asos maxi dress…especially the hidden straps version, is just gorgeous..i like the blush pink color more..
xo
http://agoldentulip.blogspot.com/
the first dress is really pretty
http://aboutacloset.com
Love the black dress! Too bad you couldn't keep it, it looks great on you!
❤ Temi Truly
Jean, I think the black dress looks good on you! Can you share how that compares with the chartreuse skater dress you got from ASOS that is also pleated but in bonded fabric? I wish I had gotten that dress before all the sizes ran out : (
Both dresses are gorgeous! I love the classic shape on the black and the color and fit of the maxi is great.
Style by Joules
I have the maxi dress in blush, love it!
In love with the maxi! Great info<3
http://www.shallwesasa.com
I also prefer the maxi dress without the grecian sleeves. Sometimes less is more.
http://www.petitestyleonline.com
Really love the fun color of that maxi dress!
Hello Jean, how on earth do you manage to find these awesome dresses 🙂
So pretty, that black dress, and gorgeous that green one. Love your looks. Have a nice week.
From Posio, Finland –Anu
Love you in your black dress, you look elegant and the fit is amazing! The green one is totally differant but also so nice!
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
The waist line of little black dress seems not fit you well. The fluorescence yellow one looks elegant.
I love the black dress. Have you tried layer it with top underneath and see how that went?
Love both your picks here and the flurry of review type posts recently! The first on is a bit Audrey Hepburn a bit ballerina
Hi jean. I love the Grecian gown…. And I actually prefer with the drape sleeves. I think that's what actually makes the dress different and gives it a romantic look.