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.
Fun fact about me: I have blue eyes but the top of my right eye is actually brown when I was little I used to be so embarrassed about it when it was noticed but now as an adult I embrace it! Also another fun fact: is my husband is the one who found your blog for me he was tired of me crying that I could never find stylish petite clothing that didn’t look too “little kid-Ish”. And the best part is when I spend a ton of money I just tell him it’s from your blog and I don’t get yelled at for it lol!!!!!!
Always loves your recommendations for everything. Fun facts, I also have 2 kids and they are both around the same age as yours.
Thank you for all of your recommendations! Fun fact: The relationship between my older sister and I have improved because of your blog! She’s a few years older than me and introduced your blog to me 4-5 years ago. That’s when we began to call each more frequently to talk about your blog. Two years ago, we went on vacation together and we ended up shopping the Nordstrom Sale using your blog as a guide. We’ve also bought things based on your recommendations without knowing that the other person has bought the same thing! Then we joke that we’re definitely twinning. 🙂
Love the post! Been going back and forth on the faux leather leggings this past year and will definitely be trying out the Commando during the NSale! I currently live in the Midwest but have been toying around with moving to Boston. After reading your posts, the temptation is much stronger! 🙂
I read about 150 books a year. I am so glad I found your blog. Every purchase based on your recommendation has been perfect! Thank you!
Love your blog and have been following since we both had our first babies a few years ago! I haven’t had much time to shop since then and always look forward to your recommendations for inspiration! Thanks so much for taking the time to post your detailed blogs, and helping to keep another mama in style. I’m due for #2 soon as well! 🙂
Hi Jean, I truly enjoy reading your blog posts and recommendations, they’re thought out and honest. I love that you try on kids sizes too haha.
Interesting fact: I’ve just started indoor climbing and hope to be able to pull up my own body weight one day!
I am an Orthodox Jew and, though I dress modestly, I live fashion and enjoy your blog.
Super helpful post! Wasn’t planning on buying anything but now I might need to 😅 Fun fact—have loved following your journey over the years especially as I’ve had 2 little ones around the same time so really appreciate the parenting side of the blog!
Love your blog!!
Fun fact: one of my college besties and I were pregnant within weeks of one another for both our kids!! Nice to go thru pregnancy and parenting with a close friend!
Both of my babies were born three days after their due date and were the same weight!
Fun fact – I have twins!
Been following you for over 10 years. I have poor style instincts so your blog helps me look/feel/be cool!
Fun fact: I’m Japanese American but read all the Harry Potter books in Spanish!
Fun fact: Yesterday I hiked up to Wheeler Peak, NM 13,161 elevation😳 At 61 yrs young that was a HUGE accomplishment especially after having Covid♥️
Love this post! Fun fact: I’ve lived in 5 countries
Fun fact: When I went on a trip to Thailand a couple years ago, the boat crew made a stop near a little cave where people go out for a night swim to see the bioluminescence. Mind you, I don’t know how to swim and didn’t dare snorkel during the day because I was scared, but I was the first to jump in the water as I was sold on the fact that “the water will glow.”
Love your posts and always look forward to your recommendations. I’m happy to see my beloved SM booties made the cut again (that I ordered as per your last year’s recommendation!)
Fun fact about me…I went skydiving years ago, just before I got married, and it wasn’t as terrifying as parenting teenagers 😉
I love all the helpful petite friendly tips you’ve provided over the years. Mmm fun fact, during my freshman year of college I had bbt at least once per day 😳
Have been enjoying your blog for a few years now. Fun fact about me is that you helped inspire me to start my own blog!
Fun fact: I own a pug named Henry!
I love the otk boots and the legging review.
Fun fact: My sister-in-law and I have the same name!
Hi Jean,
Been following your site since I graduated from Graduate school. You been my guide to dressing professional and classy despite been smaller than a petite size. Fun fact: I work at the same company you once worked at.
Thank you,
Ziulyn
I’m from Guam! Love your content as always:)
Fun fact: my baby girl is 15 weeks old.
Thanks, Jean! I always look forward to your posts. Fun fact: I originally found your blog when looking for petite work outfit ideas when I started clinical rotations in medical school and have been here ever since 🙂
Love ALL your blog post!
Fun Fact: I’m also a petite mom. 😉
I’m loving your picks for the #NSale! I have purchased the SM boots, Caslon Boots, and the SE sneakers! Fun Fact: I’m a pharmacist 💊
I truly value your posts! As a petite woman sometimes finding the right clothes for my frame is difficult and you have made it so much easier these past few years. I also did IVF and have a 2 year old so the momma posts mean a lot to me as well! <3
Fun fact, I’m a nurse currently helping with the COVID vaccine effort! I wasn’t working after I had my son but as soon as the vaccine became available I went back to work for the public health department in Virginia in an attempt to help end the pandemic! 🙂
I will be relearning how to dress for work as I return to the office.
Thank you for your honest reviews! Fun fact – I’ve been following your blog for years, and it may be the first I ever subscribed to! I’m a little taller than you at 5’3″, but I can trust your reviews to help me find a good fit and styles that are flattering!
Fun fact: I am obsessed with cilantro and make sure I have some in my fridge weekly!
We just found out we’re expecting with our second baby after our rainbow baby! Would love to shop the Nordstrom baby sale for a new car seat, double stroller or stokke tripp trapp!! ❤️
LOVE this post! I’m a petite mom of four boys who is desperately trying to remain fashionable yet practical and you always inspire.
Hi Jean! I’ve been following you for years and have accumulated so many of your recommendations in my closet! I’m not extra petite (5’5”), but you’ve helped me transition from college to post grad to actual adulthood at this point! So thank you for all that you do!!
Fun fact – I have a tuxedo cat named Sleepy. 🙂
love all your N-sale guides – I’m having my third baby in September so looking for all the cozy things for after delivery!
I’m 5’3 and considered giant in my family – my mom and my sisters are all under 5’ tall.
Love reading your blogs ❤️
Fun fact: I’m very petite at just 4’10, and a brand new first time mom as of May!
You’re blog has been so helpful in both new motherhood and petite clothing finds, thank you!
I’m a mom of 18 month old twin boys, and my husband and I are crazy and thinking about having a 3rd (hopefully no more than that lol). -Amanda A.
My fun fact is my baby is a week younger than Rio! So I always enjoy your posts (especially the eating ones) with him so I know how to keep my baby on track lol
Thank you for doing these comparisons! This is so helpful. Fun fact about me: I have some houseplants that are older than my dog!
Love all your recommendations. I’ve been following you for a while now and love all your petite recommendations!
Fun Fact – I bought the kids hunter boots after seeing your side by side comparison. So glad I did and saved all that money!
Thank you Jean for this helpful post and for doing this giveaway! Fun fact about me, I live in your neighborhood! And I’m a leftie 🙂
My fun fact – I was a lifelong anti-runner until the pandemic, then I needed a way to get out of my small apartment, clear my mind, and exercise. Last spring I found a routine that works for me and now I run 3-4 mornings and truly enjoy that me time 🙂
Thank you for all your content – but especially the N Sale right now! I appreciate how thorough and honest you always are, it’s so helpful when shopping/narrowing.
Hi Jean!
I’ve been reading your blog forever, it’s been so helpful as a petite girl who had no idea how to dress myself!!
Cheers & thanks for years of guidance and style!! 🤗
– Kristen Y.
Growing up, we didn’t have very many means so I always wore hand me downs up until I graduated from college. Your blog has helped me pick quality, timeless work outfits that look nice and fit my petite body! 😊
After spending 13 years in a corporate job, I’m finally giving my notice to become a teacher this fall!
Live your blog and also how you have trained your kids to eat everything they could!
Fun fact about me is I like to eat my desserts first before my actual meal.
Always look forward to your lovely recommendations for the N sale! Looking to finally purchase a BFD cardigan!
Fun fact about me is that I have two brothers and one sister and we are named Sam as our first name, stands for the mountain in Chinese.
Also wanted to let you know that as a very petite woman, who struggled to find clothes that fit, discovering your blog about 3 years ago has been a game changer for my wardrobe. Thank you for the time, effort, and detail you put into your blog.
Thanks for all the Nsale recommendations!
Just purchased the under garments now I need that cardigan.
Fun fact: I’m the oldest of my siblings but I am the shortest.