Summer chambray skirt styled two ways

halter top denim pencil skirt summer classic outfit petites

Ann Taylor skirt sz 00p (shrunken – read below), halter sweater sz xxsp c/o,
Ann Taylor block-heel sandals sz 5 (also styled here), earrings (also styled here)

For some start-of-the-workweek outfit inspo, I’m spotlighting a piece that can transition well across settings and seasons alike: the chambray skirt. Chambray is definitely a neutral in my opinion, and one that pairs just as beautifully in nautical, breezy summer looks as it does in rustic, layered fall outfits. This Ann Taylor skirt is fully lined with pockets, and has “paper bag” gathering with a sash belt for cinching the waistline. Wear it with a playful print blouse for the office, or a halter top with statement earrings and hair pulled back. As an extra layer, either a white blazer or cropped white cardigan can top off either of these two looks.

summer business casual work wear office outfit ideas

Ann Taylor also made this same style skirt in a textured seersucker stripe pattern – I ordered it to try on as well, and unexpectedly fell in love with both versions! The summery seersucker fabric is very low-maintenance with no ironing needed, due to the textured ridges. The chambray-linen blend does need gentle ironing, but still travels well and stays fairly wrinkle-free with wear.

ann taylor petite orange camp blouse work outfit

Fit-wise, these skirts are true to size for Ann Taylor bottoms, so will be roomy off the rack on someone my size. However, the sash tie belt does help, also both the chambray and seersucker materials can be shrunken a bit in the machine dryer (so hang dry if you want to avoid that!). Please note the lining fabric does not shrink, so you’ll have to hem the lining if you shrink the exterior fabric down more than a few cm. I check the dryer every 15 minutes or so and try on the piece, to make sure it doesn’t get too small and that the fabric doesn’t get too damaged / fried by the high heat. Also, I removed the sash belts before washing and drying since I wanted them at full-length for optimal bow tying!

cute summer work business professional outfit pencil skirt

Skirt measurements in 00p before machine drying: 13.5″ across waist, 18″ across hips, 22″ length.

Skirt measurements in 00p after machine drying: 13.25″ across waist, 17″ across hips, 21″ length. This is just based on my own experience – the amount of shrinkage on a cotton piece will definitely vary based on the temperature and duration that you machine dry it under.

ann taylor orange print blouse chambray bow skirt petites

I love my AT camp blouses as they are super lightweight, drapey (easy for tucking in), and machine-washable. I have a few in solids and had been waiting for this whimsical fruit print one to go on sale! This top also looks adorable print-mixed with the aforementioned seersucker skirt, or with solid white pants or skirts. Its true color actually falls in-between the coral red of my photos here, and the muted orange in the stock photos.

nantucket summer preppy outfit ann taylor petites
chambray bow pencil skirt summer halter outfit

Thank you to Ann Taylor for partnering on this post.

When you purchase through the links on this blog, I may earn a commission. Thank you for your support!

When you purchase through the links on this blog, I may earn a commission. Thank you for your support!

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51 Comments

  1. Anonymous wrote:

    Hi Naina, as a longtime reader of Jean's blog, I'd like to encourage you to ask these questions in her latest blog and IG posts as she may miss your comment. Hope this helps!

    Posted 6.2.17 Reply
  2. Naina wrote:

    Hi, stumbled upon your blog while searching for dressing tips for petites n still reading the blog after almost 2 hours.You are soo adorable. Thanks for such a awesome blog which is going to help me a lot.I learned some things n still learning from your posts.

    i am 32 yr old Indian 4ft 9" extra petite with short neck and mother of a 6yr old cute DD.
    i m very self conscious n so low confident women n with no make up n always frustrated to find clothing or shoes for me. every brand hv different size so for xxp like me its extremely hard to find stylish clothing or shoes.

    I live 60+ miles from Nordstrom or BR OR An Ty. so i dont know my size.
    so my question is how to shop online for extra petites who is not as thin as you instead is little bulky in waist with short neck.

    how to decide color and style pallate on whole from hair style to shoes ?
    how can i work especially on me as i can consider some of your style ideas but they wont be good on me as they are on you.
    I hope you would understand what am i trying to say.

    with your inspiration i m going to learn about make up soon but how should i practice it?

    Thanks again for guiding us for building up our confidence.

    Posted 5.30.17 Reply
  3. Jean wrote:

    Hi Nicole! I do have a post: https://www.extrapetite.com/2016/08/undergarment-guide-my-must-have-bras.html

    I would wear either a regular bra with the halter/racerback accessory mentioned in the post, or here I just went with my usual nippies covers (last item mentioned in the undergarment post) : )

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  4. Jean wrote:

    I usually just get xxs in J.Crew to factor in potential shrinkage of pieces in the dryer! I've been gravitating away from clothes that are too fitted or clingy so haven't had the need to try their xxxs yet.

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  5. Jean wrote:

    Yes, ASOS has some amazing skirts that fit nicely off the rack! Unfortunately they don't make too many work-appropriate styles or lengths. I think the skirt (after you shrink or alter it down) will look adorable with the pom earrings!

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  6. Jean wrote:

    Happy birthday!! What a wonderful little spot to celebrate at!

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  7. Jean wrote:

    I'm so happy to hear that! Dressing the part and wearing clothes that actually fit can do wonders for self confidence (this goes women with all different body types / sizes)!

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  8. Jean wrote:

    Thanks! I've been showing a few in my posts before this, and will definitely have more as summer nears!

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  9. Jean wrote:

    Thanks! It's MAC velvet teddy – a very "wearable" shade for everyday

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  10. Jean wrote:

    I think it would be super chic in the summer paired with white bottoms! And it's perfectly fine with any pencil skirt, you can just jazz it up with statement earrings.

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  11. Nicole P wrote:

    Hello Jean!! Love all you do!! I have a question regarding the halter sweater. What did you wear under it or is it thick enough to go sans support? Also, It would be great if you did a post on undergarments for petites. Thank you!! xoxo

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  12. August Harvest wrote:

    This red shirt looks gorgeous, and this skirt, oh my <3

    'Share' by August Harvest
    Instagram

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  13. Karen wrote:

    Hi Jean! I'm trying to ask a question that is not exactly related to this post. Hope you don't mind. I've moved outside of the US and don't know what JCrew sizing is like anymore. I wanna order this https://www.jcrew.com/p/womens_category/tshirtsandtanktops/shortsleevetshirts/wrap-tshirt/G5714 but I'm not sure whether XXS or XXXS would be better fit. What would you wear for something like this? I'm similar to you in both height and weight. Thanks!

    Posted 5.24.17 Reply
  14. Amanda Bates wrote:

    Love this skirt! I would buy it if I actually had any occasion to wear it. The blouse I just ordered, as it will go great with my jeans and wedges!

    Posted 5.23.17 Reply
  15. Grace Gobey wrote:

    I really like the skirt it goes really well on you

    Posted 5.23.17 Reply
  16. Chichi wrote:

    love both the looks and ur white earrings are way too gorgeous!
    http://www.thestyletune.com

    Posted 5.23.17 Reply
  17. The Short (dis)Order Cook wrote:

    I am in love with the skirt and I'm not a chambray fan. Looks so perfect for so many looks.

    Posted 5.23.17 Reply
  18. mayu from Japan wrote:

    Hi, Jean!

    I'm a big fan of you and shoulder flattering halter tops 😉
    So I bought these chambray skirt and halter tops in both white and navy to pair with the AnnTaylor patent sandal and with J.Crew pom-pom earings I already have.

    This orange blouse is so cute! but I ended up saving money for ASOS white mini skirt you posted on Instagram a few days ago 🙂 Last time I purchased ASOS scallop mini skirt in mustard, it wowed me how they flattered my waist, hip and legs. So I have big hopes for this white one too.

    Thank you 🙂

    Posted 5.23.17 Reply
  19. Camila wrote:

    Although I love your blouse, the halter swater really did the look for me. Beautiful!

    maywedream.blogspot.com

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  20. Sincerely Ophelia wrote:

    I absolutely love that skirt! The bow is sooo cute <3 Lovely looks too!

    XOXO //
    SINCERELY OPHELIA | NYC Petite Fashion Blogger

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  21. Khanh Nguyen wrote:

    Beautiful outfits! Love the one with white top, so cute <3

    https://www.myblackcloset.com/

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  22. Cena wrote:

    Literally love this look! So classy.
    Great blog all together!

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  23. Alexa Johnson wrote:

    LOVE this outfit!

    http://alexamjohnson.com

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  24. Mizeats wrote:

    Love the chambray skirt…such a beautiful and versatile piece! I really love the first look where you wore the halter top and skirt. So chic!

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  25. natascha cox wrote:

    Great post, love the style of your blog! If you get a
    moment please check out my latest post too if you can. Looking
    forward to your next one 🙂
    http://www.nataschacox.com xxx

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  26. Jae wrote:

    That skirt seriously is gorgeous! I love how casual it looks but also very sleek!
    Jae
    http://www.allthatjae.com

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  27. Kritsida wrote:

    Love the skirt and the way you styled it!
    x. kritsida
    http://aperfectcanvas.net/

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  28. mybeautrip wrote:

    Love the pink blouse. So cute!
    xx

    http://www.mybeautrip.com

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  29. Neeltje | Thoughts in Style wrote:

    The second blouse is so cute! Love it. X
    http://www.thoughtsinstyle.com/

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  30. Deasy wrote:

    You look absolutely gorgeous in this outfit. I love the white and blue outfit, as it has a bit more sass to it? I dunno if that makes sense, haha.

    http://www.ticketforadventure.com

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  31. Cristina SF wrote:

    I'm in love with the orange print blouse, it's too cute!

    http://www.memoriesofthepacific.com

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  32. Anonymous wrote:

    Jean – I just bought this skirt last week! The 0P was a little big in the waist and hips, but the length was perfect, so I took it in down the sides. It never occurred to me to look for the 00P or shrink this! Wearing it for my birthday brunch at 75 Chestnut this weekend! (Great little spot in Beacon Hill – you and Nick probably know it…) 🙂 – Gwen K.

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  33. Anonymous wrote:

    I thank God for you. .I am really petite as well and live in the South where it is normal to be a little thick ..so you can only imagine how I feel or have felt all these year and then I came across your site and I actually have confidence that I can be confident and cute, while embracing my small stature..thanks!

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  34. Kaitlin Schubert wrote:

    You look great girlie! I love both ways!

    xo, Katie
    Willow and White

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  35. Helen Veyna wrote:

    I love both ways that you styled this cute chambray skirt! I'm especially a fan of the way it looks with the halter sweater.

    -Helen
    Sweet Helen Grace

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  36. Ewa Macherowska wrote:
    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  37. Kirsten wrote:

    I LOVE that skirt!
    –Kirsten // http://www.porkandcookies.com

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  38. Sasa Zoe wrote:

    Beautiful! I need your skirt:P

    Shall We Sasa

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  39. Anonymous wrote:

    Hi Jean! Love your site! I would love to see some ideas on casual outfits for summer. Thanks!

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  40. Rachel wrote:

    That is the cutest skirt! I love both outfits. So chic and appropriate for the office or a date night.

    xoxo
    Rachel
    http://thetrendytomboy.com/

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  41. Jessi wrote:

    That's such a chic skirt! I love the bow 🙂

    -Jessi
    https://www.thedarlingdetail.com/

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  42. Lex wrote:

    Tried the same skirt on recently and wish I would have seen this post before I decided to pass on the skirt. Agree that the fit was a bit big in odd places. Never would have thought of putting it in th dryer for a few minutes. Thanks!

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  43. Rachelle Pinksole wrote:

    That skirt is gorgeous on you, love it so much.

    xo
    Pinksole

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  44. Anonymous wrote:

    I like the white halter and skirt combo. It's so eye catching. Will you also post the lip colour you wear? In these pictures particularly, your lip colour is very attractive. What are you wearing? Thanks.

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  45. Kim wrote:

    I ordered the same white top before this post went up unfortunately and love how it looks on you and how you paired it with the chambray skirt. Excited to see what it looks like in person! Do you have any other ideas for styling it? Do you think it would look good paired with white bottoms? If paired with a navy ponte skirt do you think it would look too casual for a day to night look? Maybe a black pencil?

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  46. Michael @ Mile in My Glasses wrote:

    Both these outfits are beautiful! I love how put together they look, they're wonderful!

    I hope you have a lovely week Jean,
    Michael
    https://www.mileinmyglasses.co.uk

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  47. Charmaine Ng | Architecture and Lifestyle Blog wrote:

    I love the outfit with the white sleeveless tank! It's actually quite appropriate to wear for my workplace, we dress quite casual!

    Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
    http://charmainenyw.com

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  48. La Bijoux Bella | by mia wrote:

    Such cute and adorable looks! Beautiful! 🙂

    So cool … such beautiful scenes of nature and street life captured through the lens … love the breakdown each day activities, feels like I'm there too! You traveled to the best places only to have such amazing and precious photos! So very lovely Gorgeous Julie! 🙂

    ��LA BIJOUX BELLA ��| By Mia | A Creative Lifestyle Blog

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  49. Dressed With Soul wrote:

    Your skirt is the perfect piece and I love how you have combined it!
    xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
    http://www.dressedwithsoul.com

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply
  50. Sarah Lilly wrote:

    I'm not usually a fan of denim/chambray skirts as they generally have no shape to them, but that one is stunning! It's so flattering and feminine and I love the little bow detail!

    Sarah Lilly
    The Lilly Mint Blog

    Posted 5.22.17 Reply

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