I wanted to do a post comparing pieces from some of the most loved categories of the Nordstrom sale (BFD, joggers + leggings!) and how the styles fit a petite frame. I also wanted to include some simple outfits with pieces I got in previous years that are back for this year’s sale!
Barefoot Dreams Cardigan Guide
Around this time of year I always get questions on the cuddly Barefoot Dreams cardigans, and which style is best for a petite frame. I have a small collection from over the years and pretty much lived in them during pregnancy, postpartum and for travel back in the day. They also make a cozy gift for mom, MIL, aunts, sisters, even grandma!
For fit reference, I’m about 5 feet tall, size xxs / 24 in jeans
1. Barefoot Dreams Long Cardigan size xs
Weight: CozyChic Lite
In recent years, this has become the favorite of my BFD trio! A while back I didn’t even consider it, thinking it was too long for a petite frame. But tastes change, and as I’ve gotten older I find this length more flattering and versatile with the casual outfits that I usually wear. This one is cut a little slimmer throughout the body and the sleeves, helping it look sleek and drape well. Like with the other styles, I do cuff the sleeves up on this one.
Right – fall outing: Spanx Kids leggings L, SM boots (very similar), similar Rag & Bone hat on sale
2. Barefoot Dreams Drape Rib Cardigan size xs (Updated version)
Weight: CozyChic Ultra Lite
This made a cameo last year as a limited edition style. It’s the lightest weight out of the bunch but only by a little. UPDATE: they updated this cardigan to be a few inches longer and the sash belt is now removable, versus stitched on like it was beefore.
3. Barefoot Dreams Circle Cardigan size XS/S
Weight: CozyChic Lite
The most popular style of the BFD family! And my first step into this cozy, snuggly world many many years ago. I think this cocoon shape is the most universally flattering cut out of the bunch, and the sizing is a little more flexible, so would be my pick if you’re shopping for one to gift a friend or loved one.
If you’re debating between the long and the circle cardigan ~ same outfit, slightly different looks:
Leggings Guide (Zella, Comando, Spanx)
I rotate my Zellas for running, light workouts, lounging and travel while I love a good faux leather legging for everyday fall-winter outfits. Here’s a rundown of some popular styles and how they compare:
1. Zella Studio Lite Pocket 7/8 leggings size xxs
My favorite Zellas for everyday wear thanks to the shorter length and convenient, generously sized pocket for holding my phone! Mine in the photo are a prior year version, and they’ve since moved the pocket up to make it more flattering and flush against the leg (I do own this year’s but they were in the wash when I snapped these photos!). The 7/8 length in a regular size XXS hits nicely right below my ankles. Update 2022: I tried the 2022 version in store and find them to be the same quality as mine from a few years ago. I suggest sorting the reviews by most recent, as I think they may have changed these back to the original after some complaints!
2. Zella Live In leggings size Petite xs
The original Zellas with nice and smooth compression fabric (a tad thicker than Studio Lite) and a little slot pocket hidden in the waistband. I personally wear the Studio Lite Zellas more due to the pockets and shorter ankle length!
3. Commando 7/8 faux leather leggings xs
Just added these to my staple leggings collection! After two babies, I’ve been wanting a slightly higher rise and more compression, and these delivered with a subtle pebbled faux leather finish. The Commando have the look of lightweight leather pants with a higher rise, while the Spanx below are more like stretchy activewear leggings with a slinkier feel. Heads up, the Commando leggings fit small with a lot of “shaping” power and took me a little time to wiggle on at first. The length is a little long on me but have a raw cut bottom hem that is very easy to fold under.
4. Spanx faux leather leggings
These are thin and light, liquid style leggings with a wide banded waist and side seams. A Petite XS was a little too much like a tight second skin on me and showed my knee grooves, etc (and was ~ 2 inches too long), so I had to return. Compared to Commando, though, they are a lot stretchier and more like athletic leggings, so I can see how comfy they are for all day wear and sitting!
I was curious about their very affordable kids sizing so gave these leggings another try, unfortunately the Kids XL pictured here is too loose throughout and pretty long (hems are folded under a few inches in the pic), though might suit someone who is a Womens XS and taller. Someone my size should fare better with their girls size Large.
Zella Joggers Guide (Restore vs Live In)
Next, a quick look at Zella’s two most popular jogger pants and how they fit a petite frame!
1. Zella Restore soft joggers (regular inseams only)
There are my old favorites (read my review) and one of the top items I’d recommend from the sale! Even though they are regular sizing, the xxs length is petite-friendly on me. The fabric is incredibly soft and comfortable, but still has a smooth finish which is nice (not “fleecy” which can get pilly or nubbly on pants).
I’ve also heard that some of you got the kids version of these! I haven’t tried the kids in this particular style but I usually take a kids size L in Zella bottoms.
2. Zella Live in joggers (regular + petite inseams)
In comparison to the Restore, the fabric of the Live In joggers is less cozy against the skin and more of a lightweight woven material, making these better for athleisure outfits and running errands, compared to the Restore which I wear to at home to curl up at my desk or on the couch in! They also have a small zippered pocket convenient for things you don’t want to lose while working out, like keys.
I may be an adult but I still love stuffed animals especially those in the shape of food – my favorite is a stuffed ‘bao’!
I always love your Nordstrom sale posts! I also would love to know where the black tunic sweater is from. Fun fact: I was born on my dad’s birthday!
I had heard of them before but reading about them on your blog is what convinced me to try out the BFD cardigans. Love how soft and cozy they are; I’m definitely starting to amass my own collection. Somehow they look less slouchy and sloppy on you despite the fact that you’re even more petite than me! Sadly, the long one is already sold out in XS looks like.
Fun fact: my younger sister is pregnant with her first and just found out it’s a girl 🙂
As a petite woman, I love your recommendations and have found many staple items for my closet. I love keeping up with you and your family too on Instagram! Thank you for doing what you do!
Mommy of 2 girls and soon to be 3. I’m in between petite and normal so your blog and recommendations has helped me tremendously!!!
Fun fact: I’m obsessed with jellyfish and seahorses
I’m a new mom and love sushi like you! I really enjoy reading your blog (all your posts on styling, TJ finds, postpartum, and how to care for Nori and Rio). I always find your recommendations super helpful! Btw I just made a purchase with NEIWAI using your code, thank you so much!
Love your blog because it gives me great syle ideas for someone who is petite!! Thanks for sharing your blogs!
Hi Jean! I love your blog and have been following since before Nori, when you were working in finance. Fun fact: I’m adopted and have recently been in contact with my birth parents, I also found out I have 3 half siblings 🙂
Fun fact: my Chinese zodiac sign is different depending on which calendar you go by. I’m a monkey in the Western calendar but a goat in the lunar calendar
I’ve been following your blog for several years. You’ve been a style inspiration for me! I’ve really appreciated your unbiased insights on products and the family recipes. Thank you for continuing to provide relevant content!
Fun fact: I’ve always dreamed of going to Pulau to snorkel with the jelly fish.
I love reading food blogs.
Fun fact: My husband and I were able to get married during covid and my matron of honor drove all the way from Waco, TX to Maryland (with a 4 month old and a 2 year old!) to be a part of our day.
I am also very petite women(only 5 feets tall), so I am so glad that I found you because I always so struggle in dressing myself. The fun fact about myself is both of my daughters look exactly the same even they are 8 years apart.
My sister had been following you for years, and she got me hooked on your blog a little over a year ago. We talk about you as if you’re a friend, “Jean recommends this/Jean posted a recipe for that”, lol. I’ve become slightly lazy, you post things and if it looks cute, I just buy it. Thank you!
Fun Fact: my sister lives in Boston, too, so we’re hoping she bumps into you one day! 🙂
Love your blog posts and reviews! Always so thorough and honest. Fun fact about me: I love doing yoga!
Jean – your recommendations are always spot on!
I love your niche of petite fashion/hacks; and your style is what I aspire to be!
Fun fact about me: I don’t think I have ever purchased anything at Nordstrom in my life! Maybe it’s time for a change. 🙂
I am currently pregnant with first baby and I’m so excited and nervous at the same time. I’ve always loved your maternity style and baby recommendations!
Love your recommendations!
Fun fact: I didn’t want to be a doctor because I didn’t want to touch patients or give needles.. eventually my degree required it and now vaccinating and teaching patients about immunizations is my favorite part of the job!
Really appreciate your help in navigating the trends! I really love your style, because it’s feminine and classy, even casual outfits! Fun fact: I’m Asian who’s native language is Russian.
Fun fact: I came to the U.S. at age 4 and learned how to speak English from watching Mr. Rogers
Love that you chose to focus on this perfect trio of items!
Fun fact: Being 4’11” and born on Halloween, I was the shortest and youngest of my high school graduating class!
Long time follower here! As a fellow petite mom, I love all of your recommendations. Fun fact: I once met Sinbad in an elevator
Fun Fact: I sang in Notre Dame with my high school choir!
Been following you since I was in early college to find petite friendly interview clothes for med school and now I’m applying to cardiology fellowship. Love your blog! Fun fact: I met real life princesses (princess Eugenia and Beatrice) in Disney World as a child
I am graduating from Georgetown with my master’s in August!
Hi Jean, I love reading your blog and also follow you on Instagram.
Interesting fact about me is that I worked in NYC as a doctor in the middle of the pandemic and it made me feel emotions that I wouldn’t have otherwise realised I had.
Thank you for your service Kriti – I can only imagine your experience and I am so grateful for smart, dedicated doctors like you.
Love the recommendations! My fact: I’ve been lucky enough to tour the world as a professional dancer.
I’m in my 20s and have no children, but I find your posts on pregnancy and post partum interesting and educational. Definitely save posts to reference in the future.
Love your style! An an extra petite person, you’ve helped me become more confident with looks that don’t make me look like a teenager. This is especially needed with my current job. Fun facts, I traveled to Kenya when I was younger and am working to go back and I make the best bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich 😊
Thanks for your great recommendations!
Fun fact: I’ve been to 6 continents
Fun fact: I lived in the South End as a young kid, moved to the suburbs/college and now live 2 streets over from when I was little.
Thanks so much for NSale recommendations! I have been following you blog for several years, and always stop here first to look for petite fashion recommendations!
I live in Seattle, with 2 kids and run, hike (summitted 3.8/5 of the highest peaks in WA), and practice krav maga.
Love how you always include your sizes for reference. I’m around the same size but it is always so tough finding clothes. Fun Fact- I’m a Korean Adoptee.
Love the Zella sweatpants recommendations.
I’m an Ironman triathlete.
Hello! Love all of your reviews. Fun Fact: I use to live in Boston and love seeing it in your pictures!
Hi Jean! Thanks for doing the giveaway! Interesting fact about myself: I’ve been following your blog for around 10 years, and it’s been so helpful in dressing and embracing my petite self. 🙂
Maybe a not so fun fact, but I’m double jointed in both of my arms! 😆
I love your style tips and blog! Fun fact: I love baking different kinds of desserts!
Hi Jean, I’m a long time follower and love your posts. Thanks for doing the giveaway!
Fun fact about me: I am 15 weeks pregnant now. I conceived via IVF. It took me 5 years to get pregnant and it has not been easy! Thanks for all your pregnancy tips!!
Thank you Jean for posting Nsale. I definitely follow your recommendations and it never disappoints! Fun fact: When I went to Peru, I did a 4 day hike to Machu Picchu. I got sick with GI bug and had to be carried by two porters for half an hr to our base camp 😆
I love your content! I don’t have kids myself but I love seeing your kids grow and try new things!
I love your style and suggestions! I love cooking, travel, yoga and meditation
Thanks for your NSale recommendations, Fun fact: during pandemic, I learned to make French macaroons at home.
Fun Fact: my now 4yo girl used to ran to her dinner bowl just like your Nori whenever I said “food is ready!” I just wish I recorded it :))
I love all your reviews!! Its always hard trying to by clothes for my petitie body type so I always use your blog for tips & tricks for styling. I also love your food reviews!! I’ve hit up a couple places you’ve recommended in Boston!
Fun fact: I love to travel and can’t wait to start again!
Love your classic style. Fun fact: spotted my husband in my Quince video (along with his brothers). We had no idea.
Thank you for all your wonderful posts!!! It’s so difficult finding petite friendly clothing and still remain on trend – I am 5’0 but my daughter is only 4’10 – we both struggle. Certainly ready to shop!
I went to grad school in Boston and miss living there so much. I lived in Kenmore Square right behind Uburger (don’t know if it’s still there).