Here in Boston we still have months of cold weather left, but I’m very much looking ahead to spring! I found this beautiful black and cream colorblock skirt at Express which I’d typically save for warmer weather, but wanted to show simple ways to change up the styling across the seasons. For winter I’d pair it with sock booties and this ruched sleeve top that I’ve shown several times (including here with joggers) – it’s a great “elevated basic” for WFH and is currently 60% off! I also tried it on with this sleek and versatile mock neck cap sleeve tee that’s very stretchy and double layered, and also on sale for under $25.
And if you’re looking for a new pair of jeans, all Express denim is currently on notable sale for $45, including their high waisted comfort jeans which are well stocked in petite sizes (see them on me). I also tried on these white skinny jeans which were actually too fitted on me throughout the legs, but the length and rise were great so I’d recommend them for someone wanting a very skinny, jegging-like fit. Their Short and Petite sized denim now fit almost exactly the same (I tried both to compare) and work very well on my frame with no alterations needed!
Pleated skirts are one of those pieces that look like so much more effort than they actually are. They’re incredibly low maintenance with no steaming or ironing required, since the pleats naturally stay put. Note this skirt is on the longer side for someone petite hitting a few inches above my ankles, and the waistband is actually fitted with a zipper and clasp closure, not elastic like the description says. It’s nice quality and fully lined, and is machine washable! Measurements of size xxs: 12.25″ across the waistband when lying flat, 29″ length.
Thank you to Express for partnering on this post.
thanks for sharing how to wear a skirt with boots
thanks for sharing how you wear a skirt with boots. I have a hard time matching shoes to dresses/skirts/cropped pants during the winter. gotta try the sock boots.
Yes I am a little late to the sock boots but they’ve been a game changer for certain pieces that I couldn’t successfully style with regular ankle boots!
Color-blocking is one of my favorite fashion styles. So classic and modern at the same time.
May
I agree, it’s a nice way to put a slightly more modern spin on a classic piece!
I love the color block print. I have not seen this look in a full skirt and it is beautiful, especially done in a pleated style. So pretty! Thank you for showing this to us.
Thank you Susan! I though it was a fun take on the classic pleated skirts I love so much.
Hi Jean! I just wanted to stop by and tell you that I love your blog! It has been so helpful for me as we are the exact same size/height. I have all the same problems you do when it comes to clothes. I have to alter about 90% of my closet and your DIY tutorials have been fabulous! I’ll also be continuing to follow your Amazon finds. Thanks for creating such an awesome blog for us petite ladies!
XOXO-Becky Ross, Tennessee
Hi Becky, it’s so great to be connected with you and thank you for your kind note! I’m always so happy to be a helpful resource to other ladies with a petite frame. And I’m so impressed that you’re able to alter that much of your closet! Sewing requires a lot of patience so that’s awesome that you can basically customize your wardrobe to fit well.
Hi Jean! I love pleated midi skirts but I always shied away from them because I’m petite & pear shaped. Always thought they might make me look bigger than I already am! I love the other midi skirt with a bow that you posted from Express as well. I hope you can in future posts show how to style them further. Maybe with a blazer or a cardigan? Hope you & yours are well & warm during this winter season.
Hi Mare, thank you for your kind note, I think pleated skirts can be very forgiving and hope you’ll consider giving them a try 🙂 I remember the one you’ve mentioned with the bow – they make great skirts! And I appreciate your suggestion for future post ideas styling them, I”ll keep that in mind!
Hi Jean! I have been following you for years and love your style. Thank you for sharing. Would you know if this skirt is bump friendly?
Congratulations!! A skirt with an elastic waist would be more comfortable around a bump. This one does not have that feature, however I’ve previously tried some of Express’ other pleated skirts which actually all have elastic waist bands and were bump-friendly when I was pregnant so perhaps check those out! I have the metallic one and it fit well before + throughout at least half of my pregnancy.