2. This 100% linen breezy sweater (comes in 2 colors) in “pearl rose” was my favorite piece out of the items I tried on. I have a weakness for linen in warmer weather – usually a downside is the fabric’s extreme wrinkle-proneness, but in this knit format that is not an issue. True to the item name, it is a “breezy” sweater in a looser knit and is somewhat sheer as you can see below. I was afraid it’d be too roomy per the stock photo, but the xxs petite was a nice casual fit after cuffing up the sleeves. I’ll love it as a coverup after a day by the pool/beach, with shorts or jeans, or for work with a tank top underneath.
2. Finally got to try on this year’s version of their scalloped lace dress. After seeing both the LOFT and AT versions in-person, I definitely prefer the latter for quality and fit. I own the 2011 version of this dress and am bummed they used a different lace material (now a smaller, different shape of floral) from prior year versions. However it’s still a fairly thick lace that is double lined, and on the plus side the fit this year is much better than before, running smaller than most of their dresses that I’ve tried on. 
The 00P was just 1-2″ roomy in the waist and hips, so someone my size can get away alterations-free, or do the simple DIY waist take-in I showed here. Also, the waist placement is higher and the total length is shorter than before. This is great for fellow shorties like myself, but anyone a little taller might prefer to go with regular sizing. When lying flat and unstretched, the 00P measures 15″ across the armpits, 13″ across the waist, 17″ across the hips, and is 32″ long – please note that due to the thickness of the lace and the double lining, the actual fit is noticeably smaller than these outer measurements.
A belt could also help cinch it the waist if you just have a little bit of roominess. See my old tutorial for how to tie this belt knot here!
3. Next up, I tried on this striped crossover top in xxs petite. I echo the sentiments of one of the online reviewers of this top – liked it but it didn’t wow me, so I probably wouldn’t keep it. I figured I’d share a quick review for anyone else who may have been eying it. It’s a very blousy fit with good drape, but the material is thin and on the sheer side (you can see the bottom layer of the crossover in photo below). The front is designed a little shorter than the back tail, and there’s a snap button at the chest.
4. I love my tweed skirts from Ann Taylor although all of them had to be altered at the waist. They have two very pretty ones this season, this one below in a cream tweed with subtle blue and green speckles, and this beautiful textured stripe one that I’m so bummed is all gone in my size. The fit of the one below is typical for the brand so sits lower on my hips. It’d need tailoring in order to sit higher at my natural waist, where I like my skirts to be.
I liked the fit and texture of this sweater – the color wasn’t for me, but wanted to share for anyone interested. I see it also comes in white online which would be more versatile, however a review notes that one is very sheer.
As for J.Crew factory (40-50% off all womens, ends 4/22), here’s a quick update on my order for those of you who have been asking. I’ll try to post photos this week, but for now:
– petite chambray shirt was cancelled due to inventory issues. This is third time I’ve gotten a notice like this (well over a week after the order date) from ordering either at J.Crew regular and factory, so they need to better manage their web availability vs. actual stock!
– calfhair cheetah belt in sz S I kept, but had to punch several extra holes in (if you don’t have a leather hole puncher
yet, not sure what you’re waiting for!). It is very long – nearly 40 inches. You can take it to a cobbler and get belts shortened for a fee if the extra length bothers you. The leather arrived a little stiff which I hope will soften with hear, and for the price I paid I have no complaints. The cheetah print is “spot” on for what I’m looking for as an accent to my outfits, and it’s already been worn several times (see first photo of this post).
– navy striped pencil skirt in 00p – I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of this. It was 100% crisp cotton of decent weight and some stretch, was fully lined, and as a nice small touch the waistband was also lined with grosgrain ribbon. The fit however is very generous on someone my size, not surprising for J.Crew bottoms. I liked the quality and classic design enough to pay for alterations. The measurements of a 00P for reference is: 13.25″ across the waist, 17″ across the hips, and 19.5″ length. Would recommend, especially when on sale.
Last but not least, I also wanted to point out this J.Crew factory petite floral top as a dupe for my old LOFT one, for anyone who missed out on that last year. A floral top is one of the most versatile pieces in my entire closet (see a few ways I paired mine), and I love the colors of the J.Crew factory one as an alternative. Remember to use FREESHIP to get free shipping with no minimums!
Hi Jean, It's a nice treat to read your blog at the end of a long day and I'm always checking for new posts. I fell in love with your pink sweater the moment I saw it in your blog. I bought it in an xs petite. I find it to be a little boxy looking on me even though I'm short waisted and was thinking I should have ordered an xs regular for a more slimming effect. Even though I'm probably slightly shorter than you, the sweater looks a bit longer on you. I love the material though it does snag easily. I guess that's the nature of a linen knit and doesn't reflect so much on quality issues
Thank you so much for your blog! I can now find clothes that are cute and fit well.
Thank you! I've actually ordered 2 from Loft and one from Banana.
Rachel – thanks so much for your kind and encouraging words! I appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment and let me know : )
Hi there – that's a tough call and really depends on how comfortable you are in either! The jeans in my experience do not stretch out much which is why I like them. If neither is perfect, I would try other styles until you find the right fit for you so you don't have to compromise on comfort or fit!
Hi Kari! I think I spoke with you on Instagram already, but the size 23 of Articles of Society fits most comparably to R&B;'s the skinny jean in size 24.
Hello – it's still on their site in both petite and regular! Just looked at it.
However very limited sizing, because winter is over. I would check back next fall for a better selection!
Hi there and welcome! : ) Long chain straps are tough…to help avoid that I look for adjustable straps, or bags with a fold over style, where the design allows you to fold 1 extra length under the flap of the bag itself. If that doesn't work, perhaps ask a cobbler if they'll do chain work!
Hello – I haven't tried any myself…but here's two options I found on the web also available in petite sizing:
http://www.loft.com/petite-chambray-shirtdress/364714?colorExplode=false&skuId;=18371482&catid;=catl000036&productPageType;=fullPriceProducts&defaultColor;=4525&CID;=aff_7078679
http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=516017012&vid;=3&tid;=gosp1r&kwid;=1≈=14
Hi there – unfortunately I don't have any secrets other than to be careful where you walk (ie. avoid sidewalk cracks and rubbing the sides of your shoes against things). This is why although I love the look of matte, softer leather, I often go for patent leather because when scuffs happen, they are easier to remove or scratch off with a cloth.
I love your pearl necklace!!! =)
~Alyssa~
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I love all that blush! Such a perfect spring look! Beautiful!
http://www.vanitysalad.com
Jean, I have been reading your blog for months now, and I just wanted to thank you for the timeliness of your posts in regard to new sales, your excellent links, and overall thoroughness in your reviews. It is evident that you put a lot of time and effort into this blog and I just wanted to say thank you!
Hi Jean, love your style. I ordered rag & bone jean after seeing it looks so good on you. I'm debating which size to keep, both 24 and 25 fit on legs, 24 waist line is a bit small for me, I can squeeze in but creates muffin top; 25 is ok on waist line but a bit loose and long. From your experience, does it stretch much? Would you suggest to keep the 24 or 25?
Hi Jean! Thank you for posting all of the clothing reviews, it helps so much! If you wear a size 24 in Rag and Bone jeans, what size do you wear in the white Article of Society jeans? I would love to order some today. Thanks so much!
Ooh thanks for the sale alerts! You look great, as usual!
http://www.tailoredandtrue.wordpress.com
I love your outfits! You look amazing!
Aneliya || sugarfoxy.blogspot.com
Love the first look and the lace dress!
I love your outfits, especially the first one!
xo, Liz
http://lipstickandconfetti.com
Jean, do you know if J. Crew's lady day coat is no longer being carried? They don't seem to be carrying any of them, petite or regular, anymore. 🙁
I am absolutely in love with all of the items from AT spring collection! So excited that they have 50% sale going on right now! Thanks for the helpful review!
xo, Suzie Q
StyleCueBySuzieQ.com
Hi Jean, read your profile in the Boston Globe Magazine and I am so happy I found your blog. I have a Rebecca Minkoff Mac bag and the chain is slightly long. I have the chains doubled up but was wondering if you knew of either a DIY way or shop that would be able to make it shorter. Thanks so much for your tips for us fellow petites!
Hi there, I am on the hunt for a denim shirtdress…any suggestions?
Hi Jean. I love your blogs. Can you talk about how to prevent scuffed heels? (especially like the SW nude sandals you reviewed. It's not cheap and scuff mark can totally ruin the look.Thanks!
Hello! Mine is from a few years ago where there was only one option. It looks closest to the current "gold."
Love these types of posts, thanks for the reviews, Jean!
Hi Jean. I was wondering if the pearlized AT necklace you are wearing is silver or gold. It looks silver but I wanted to make sure before I buy it.
Thanks!
God bless you for always alerting me about these awesome sales! I love the pieces you purchased 🙂
Enclothed Cognition
Great looks! My fave is the first one!
Hi there – I didn't buy that…was just sharing it as a similar petites option to the one I own, which is long sold out.
Now I'm happy that recently I wore nearly the same outfit like you, only with ripped white denims 🙂 But now I hope I will find enough necklaces in my closet to create a similar necklace design you wear as I adore this! Thank you for your inspiration.
xx from Germany/Bavaria, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
Great post! Did you buy/ keep the navy and white jcrew factory gingham shirt you linked in your previous post too?
I love the powder blue sweater!
Dori | dorigamii
Super cute outfit, love your necklaces!!
|| D I A N A ||
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