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.
Love all your recommendations! 🙂 It saves me from looking and searching.
Fun fact: I have two kids around the same age as yours!! Just gave birth to my daughter in March!
I love following your content for fashion tips for myself, but also love all the recommendation items for kids. Sending you love from Seattle!
Always love to see your NAS picks! Plus, your blog is so helpful in detailing the fit and quality of items, which help me in deciding which items to purchase! Hope you and your family have a wonderful weekend!
I always look forward to your Nordstrom recommendations. They are always on point, thank you!
Fun fact about me: I was induced for 59 hours before giving birth to my first daughter.
I used to compete on a debate team and kept it a secret for fear that people will laugh at me, but now I embrace my debating skills!
– Sandy H
just ordered both BFD cardigans! love the way you styled them and thanks for the inspo! def could use a gift card after this major haul! happy shopping!
Im a tired mom of 3 😁
Thanks for years of petite recs & hacks. Fun fact – my birthday is on Christmas, and despite what most people say, I love it!
THANK YOU for the detailed petite leggings/leather pants recs – so need that!
Been following you for a while, and love all of your recs – I’m always sending them to friends 🙂 I live in SoCal with my family.
Thank you for all of your style inspiration. Also I wanted to thank you for a well written journey of your IVF. I had to go through it with my 1st son 2 yrs ago and is now again for our 2nd child but it doesn’t go well like the first round 🙁
Thanks for doing a giveaway, Jean! Fun fact about me is that I’m giving birth to my first child in a month!
Thanks so much for these breakdowns, Jean! A fun fact about me: I love group exercise and I taught classes in college. Hoping to get back into it soon after having a baby 😊 -Holly B
Love all these outfits, and your thorough reviews! Fun fact: My name means snow in Japanese ❄
Love the suggestions! Fun fact: I saw you once at a dimsum place in California but was too timid to say hi and did not want to interrupt your meal, this was many years ago. At least I like to think it was you! Haha
Your anniversary posts are so helpful for navigating the overwhelming number of sale items. Thank you for putting these together!
I also used to live in Boston, so I love hearing about your adventures around town. It brings back many memories for me!
– Jessica C.
I’m a petite 50’s something marathoner, (right on Hereford left on Boylston!!)cyclist finally finding clothes that fit and look stylish.
Although I’m also petite but not skinny like you. I like your style but just sad I can’t wear the things you wear.
Uv
Love you IG and your blog! I was born in Asia, grew up in Australia, and have been in NYC for 14 years!
Loved following you through different stages all life! Thank you for all the content you provide. Fun fact about me is I was born in Philippines, grew up in Canada and currently live in the US, but still cannot understand Fahrenheit!! Celsius all the way! 😆
A little about me: I am also Asian and petite like you! I love your blog and have purchased several of your item recommendations and have become my staples.
Fun fact: I screenshot and save all your recipes in a folder on my phone 🙂
Love your style and helpful advices for petite ladies! I’m 4’11” so it’s been hard to find something truly fits and look my age at the time.
– Trang L.
I’ve loved your blog for several years now! It’s refreshing to find so much information on petite sizing, which I feel never gets enough love in the clothing/fashion industry. Somewhat fun fact, I’m a massive geek and this summer I am rewatching the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe, haha.
Thanks for your post! My fun fact about me is my elbows are double jointed 😀
I read your blog while feeding my 4 week old! I have referred to your baby related posts several times as I went through IVF, pregnancy and prepared for a hospital birth. I have history of reproductive health issues so by giving an unmedicated birth(my first) I surprised myself!
Being petite, I struggle finding clothes that actually fit. It can be frustrating because I see lots of things I would love to wear but can’t find the right size. Thank you for all your helpful suggestions!
Fun fact: My husband and I are the only ones in both of our families to move away from our home state of CT. And not only did we move away, we moved across the country to AZ. We miss our families, but love sunny AZ!
I discovered your blog when I was at my lowest. Within a few days, my shopping cart was filled with your recommendations and I suddenly found self love and confidence again. Thank you, Jean. ♥️
Fun fact: Fruits makes my throat itch but I love them too much to give them up.
I love your style and blog! I have enjoyed following you for years now! Fun Fact – I was born a twin & most of my freckles are on one side of my body.
– Amber A.
Love your Nordstrom sales reviews this year! Considering getting couple things already, maybe the cozy barefoot dreams long cardigan and/or the Commando leggings ❤️!!
Fun fact about me: within this month I’m celebrating my 4th work anniversary, my first born 3rd bday and second born 1st bday 🤯
Love your comparisons. I’m 5’2”. My husband is 50 today. I’m older but feels weird to be married to a 50 year old!
Thanks for the reviews! Fun fact, I still have and wear two wrap dresses you reviewed a decade ago maybe – you were showing the cheat alteration of altering at the shoulder seam 🙂
Fun fact: I was born in Boston and I love that city!
Fun fact-I used your “when it’s time to go to the hospital you’ll know ” line that you talked about with Nori to get my husband to take me when it was time with my kiddo.
Karna H
Jean,
Thank you for always sharing quality content, hacks, recommendations! I love reading your blog and I rarely click outside of Instagram unless it’s yours! I’ve been able to purchase so many useful things as a new mom thanks to your page. Wouldn’t call this “fun” but recently my husband and I had to really spend all our savings to fix our basement due to a flood and unforeseen leakage in the bathroom. Thankfully we’re getting through it and in return get a renovated bathroom. We’re moving in the Fall and leaving our home to my aging parents. So although we had to spend all we have, we know we’re leaving it renovated for my parents 🥲 that is the silver lining. Decided to stay positive and to see the blessing in this.
Thanks for the giveaway and hope whoever gets it sees it as their silver lining as well (even if it’s not me haha!)
First off, I really enjoy reading your blog and IG posts.
With that being said, a fun fact about me is that I will finally get to meet an older brother that I found out about in the past couple years!
I am also an extra petite, 5 feet tall gal, so growing up, I was always insecure about my height. I somehow came to believe that even nice clothes don’t look good on me because I am so short. I felt even smaller thinking no one takes me seriously becauee I have a body of a teenager. One day, years ago, I discovered your extrapetite blog and appreciate your blogging journey so much. l watched you growing from an individual, to wife, and finally mother, and you did it all with grace and fashion :). You inspired me to embrace my petite frame and help me to style my outfits better with your tips and tricks. Most importantly, I’ve learned to love my body and own it. Thanks Jean!
Fun fact: I’m actually 4’11.5 inches but i always tell people I’m 5′ even hahaha.
I had my ears pierced as a baby!
I love a cozy cardigan with leggings look! Fun fact: I climbed Toto Machu Picchu with my sister!
Sheila R.
Love your blog! Your postpartum advice saved me! Fun fact: I’m from New Orleans, aka the Big Easy 🙂 you would love the food there!
Hi!! I love all your picks. My fun fact is I always read the last chapter of a book first.
Your blog always has such great advice. I’ve been following since the beginning.
Fun fact: I’m pretty sure my 15 mo will be taller than me by the time she’s 11!
I am always inspired by your style. Fun fact: I am a baby nurse 🙂
I took up amateur boxing before the pandemic and was going to do an USA Boxing sanctioned fight, but the pandemic got in the way and then I had a baby!
Love your Nsale picks! Thanks for sharing. Fun fact: I play the clarinet.
Love your recommendations! Fun fact: I’m 27 but I’ve traveled to 26 countries!
Hi Jean! I enjoy your IG posts and daily stories and the circle cardigan is my absolute favorite thanks to you! 🙂 Fun Fact: I’ve been an ICU nurse for over 20 years!
Thanks for the reviews!
Fun fact: I planted the seeds of one grape tomato this spring thinking I’d end up with half a dozen plants, but I ended up with 50+ plants!
I had hard time getting and styling petite clothes. Since following you, my fashion sense increased and I am excited for this sale which will be my first time trying too. Thanks!
Love this write-up! Fun fact about me: I’ve been to 29 countries and have referenced almost all of your travel blog posts during those trips. Excited to get back to traveling!