Mistakenly Purchased Theory Skirt Seeks a New Home

My Theory Gratian suit saga continues with this story of the unwanted skirt. After ordering the blazer over the phone, I became consumed with the desire to own the full suit. Apparently, so consumed that I wasn't thinking clearly.

For reasons unknown, the designers at Theory decided to pair an amazing blazer with an indecently short, slightly flared miniskirt (?). The ladies on the phone told me they had just two sizes left - a 0 and a 10. The sz 0 measured under 13" long (tsk tsk tsk), and the sz 10 was 15" long (do-able). The skirt including shipping was not so cheap, and either size required costly alterations. I tossed and turned in my sleep...oh, what to do?

The next day I bit the bullet and ordered sz 10. My tailors were flabbergasted. "Take picture for website!!" they exclaimed.

Theory "Roselin" skirt in conversation fabric, sz 10

Later that week, I was hanging up the new blazer in my closet and caught a flash of similar fabric. I did a double take. Surely enough, it was a dress that I purchased years ago at Saks off 5th, in the same exact fabric. I remember my Theory fabrics by name, so didn't put two and two together that "conversation" was the same material as "dialogue." I had a matching piece all along. *Smacks head.*

Matching dress from 2009:

To make a long story short, the skirt is now back from the tailors. I do not need it because I already have the matching dress. Here is how it looks post-alterations:

Theory "Gratian" blazer in sz 00, and 'Roselin" skirt post-alterations.

And with opaque tights (it looks better with semi-sheer tights):

This skirt now measures 13" across the waist, 17.5" across the widest part at the bottom, and 15" long. Side zipper closure and fully lined. The alterations were simple and came out perfectly, so the only sign of the original size is inside on the tag. I know a few ladies have a blazer in the matching fabric, so email me if you are interested in this skirt. Sold!

Theory Outlet Finds: The Gratian Blazer Saga

BR dress tag info, Theory jackets tag info 

I randomly stopped by the outlets after Christmas (unplanned, I swear!) and was overjoyed to stumble upon the Theory "Gratian" blazer, this time in a textured cotton fabric available in cream or black. Some of you may remember that this blazer was a petite fave, as its cropped, shrunken style fits nicely on shorter and smaller-framed women. Revisit my post here, and the original post on Alterations Needed that started it all!

The jacket was $410 marked down to $99, plus they had another discount for post-Christmas. Sadly, the smallest size left at that outlet was a 2, and the manager said "I'm not going to call up every single store" because they were too busy. It actually takes about 10 seconds to look it up in the system (my local Theory outlet has done this for me many times), but the manager didn't believe me. I had to take matters into my own hands and spent the rest of the day actually calling up every single Theory outlet in the US. No one could find anything smaller than a 2.

Theory "Gratian" blazer in "Conversation" fabric, size 0

Gap legging jeans in "faded dark" sz 00P (buy here)
I've tried on 4 washes and faded dark is hands down the best material. Gonna buy a 2nd w/ the next sale!

I set my alarm the next day for right when the East Coast outlets opened (being that I was in CA...this was about 6AM) and I diligently called every store again. The sleepy boyfriend thought I was a nut! Yes I was a little overzealous, but oh the things we do for fashion and bargains...

I found the cream and black in a size 0 as the smallest size, and gave in and ordered each with a $15 shipping fee. What was I thinking paying so much for the wrong size? I really love the cream but the boyfriend says it's too big in the shoulders...what do you guys think? Update: after reading your thoughtful opinions, I sadly parted with the cream. See it on its adorable new owner here.

The next day, I called some stores that were previously closed due to the Nor'easter, and was overjoyed to find two 00's in the black. Without thinking twice I ordered both. I figured a fellow petite would buy the extra and benefit from my crazed searching. Here is the black in sz 00:

Theory "Gratian" blazer in "Conversation" fabric, size 00

Gap legging jeans in "faded dark" sz 00P

Ann Taylor Perfect Pumps sz 5

Liane from PetiteXXS and Jen of Frmheadtotoe also picked up this blazer. They are both smaller than me so I'm curious how 00 fits on them. Here is the material up close. It is a thicker woven material (89% cotton, 11% polyamide) and has sparkly metallic silver threads woven throughout. Made in the USA.

As I was hanging up this blazer in my closet, I did a double take. Apparently I have a dress suit in the same exact fabric! I remember Theory fabrics by name so it didn't hit me until then, because the name apparently changed. My dress suit (posted here) fabric is called "Dialogue" and these jackets are in "Conversation" ! What a pleasant surprise. I wore the jacket over the dress to work last week.

This was a long and rambly post, but to sum it up...I have two black "Gratian" blazers up for grabs in 00 and 0. Both sizes are sold!

Winter Outfits for Work and Play

Ahoy, readers! Posting will be sporadic this season due to a hectic schedule...thank you ladies for bearing with me. I haven't even had time yet to catch up on my favorite blogs, which makes me sad. I did a lot of shopping last week and can't wait to share my finds with you guys, plus I've been thinking about the next Petite Fashion Challenge hosted by my coat twin Cynthia (sign up here). 

For now, please accept this filler post. Photos were snapped over vacation at my parents' house (no, not at my 500 sq foot apartment with barren concrete walls). This is an H&M lace dress/tunic that I tweeted about last month:

Black lace minidress: H&M sz womens XS, $35

Belt: Ann Taylor Patent Belt sz S  Shoes: Ann Taylor Perfect Pumps sz 5

Mustard Cardigan: Martin & Osa (similar here for $13.80)

Several of you asked how I protected the leather soles of my Ann Taylor shoes...and I haven't. They get scuffed up by city streets, but I'll probably wear them down before paying for a re-sole.

Was trying to pair the jacket below (from this post) with something other than the failed Minnies, and finally accepted that it is too big in the shoulders/torso for me. I love the felted wool material but will probably have to sell it : /

Wool blazer: Theory sz 00 (charcoal wool w/ light navy plaid)

Dress: Banana Republic 00P

Tights: H&M divided 40 den, Shoes: Ann Taylor Perfect Pumps sz 5

Aye...note to self: unbuttoned, wrapped & belted blazer looks like a dumpling.

Petite Lookbook: A Venture into Victorian

Ruffled top tucked into slim pencil skirt = standard work fare for me year-round. It's pretty much foolproof for those just starting to build a work wardrobe. Back in January I posted the same outfit recipe here, and it almost pains me how plain I was (outfit and face alike!). Thank you blogger friends for providing fashion/beauty inspirations and critique over the year. My style has surely taken a turn for the better after reading blogs and reading all your comments.

Although the jist of this ensemble hasn't changed, I've been trying to spruce it up with simple accessories. Add monochromatic tights and pumps to stay warm (and elongate the legs). If you're always a black tights on black pumps girl...try gray on gray or olive on brown for a change. Feminize the look with some bold costume jewelry. Having almost never worn jewelry last year, I make a huge effort now to wear at least one piece every day.

 

Top: Ann Taylor ruffle blouse XSP - similar here

Skirt: Theory Joanie Tweed Skirt sz 00 - similar here and here  

Heels: Ann Taylor Perfect Pumps sz 5   

Gray tights:  H&M Divided 40 den

Cameo bracelet: Topshop (from bf's London trip)

Chain Necklace: LOFT    

This blouse fits surprisingly small for an XSP, especially for silk. I did spend a hefty $25 to get the sleeve cuffs brought up (see pre-alterations photos here), but my pet peeve are ill-fitting sleeves so I always shell out for the alterations.

I have to say I probably won't buy LOFT necklaces again. After just one wear this final sale chain necklace oxidized and had that terrible metal smell (this happened to all my F21 necklaces so I never buy those anymore either). It left a rash on my neck so into the trash it goes...

Readers - what are your go-to ensembles for work?

Petite Pants: J.Crew Minnie Skinny Pants

In my last J.Crew post I expressed disappointment for the fit of the Minnie pants. These are allegedly J.Crew's most popular pants (available in many color and fabric combos season after season) and were recommended by several petites. When they arrived I was thrilled that they almost fit, and was all set on keeping them until seeing pics. Pics are the best for showing how things fit! Here is a closer look:

Heels: Aldo  Earrings: Thrifted

Blouse: Theory ombre silk top sz P   Blazer: Theory sz 00 

Pants: J.Crew Twill Minnies in Charcoal sz 00P - on sale

Not too bad with heels, right? A bit slouchy throughout (and I heard that they continue to stretch out with wear) and I wish they tapered a little more at the ankle. I was excited to get gray pants because I've been having trouble pairing this little blazer. It's a dark navy wool with gray plaid throughout...and all I have are black bottoms for work whcih don't look so great together. Any suggestions?

Oh how I adore vintage earring finds (for $3 at Savers thrift store!). Continue reading...

I commute in flats, so I *should* always test items out with flats before deciding to keep. Wish I did that before keeping my Gap and Ann Taylor cropped pants!

 

As I've already made the mistake of keeping a few pairs of awkward-length pants earlier this year, these were a no-go after seeing this photo. The length of these on me are the worst by far with flats (00P inseam measured 24 inches), but I can see them looking nice on someone with either longer legs (as crops) or shorter legs (as ankle pants). A few people have mentioned that if you call or online chat with J.Crew, they will provide you exact measurements on their items. Refer back to this post to see links to other petites wearing the Minnies.

Readers - any other recommendations for skinny trousers for work? I think I'm going to pick up the Equestrian Wool Cuffed Trousers as modeled by Alterations Needed after they go on further sale.

Petite Lookbook: Business-y in Boucle

I first saw this skirt tweeted by fellow petite moneymaus and fell in love with the thick boucle texture. Since the description said "mini," I ordered a size up from normal hoping to wear it to work. In person the texture is fab, but I'm a little on the fence about the fit and price. As usual, lovely readers, your opinions are appreciated : )

Boucle Jacket: Theory "Tessen," sz 00 (altered here)

Top: Banana Republic XS (sides slimmed)

Boucle Skirt: Un Deux Trois Mini Skirt in kids sz 14

Shoes: Aldo sz 35   Akoya pearls: eBay  Belt: Theory

Ah yes, I'm back in the kids department despite all efforts to avoid it. Continue reading for more pics...

Fit: The fit of kids stuff, although a decent option for tiny petites, just doesn't allow for womanly curves (not like I have any...but still!). This skirt is snug across the hips for me, although there is still a little room at the waist. This causes some riding up around the hip area (nothing too bad, though). 

Quality: Thick boucle that is fully lined, which is nice. If I were to nitpick I would say the back buttons are big and cheap looking (sign of kids). Material is polyester/rayon/spandex blend, which is nothing special in itself, but the resulting boucle is tres chic.

Measurements: Kids sz 14 is 12" across the waist, 14.25" across the hips, and 16.25" in length. Remember the material is thick, plus there is lining, which makes the true measurements a little smaller than what I've listed.

Value: Paid full retail at $58, which I think is pricey for a kids skirt by a brand I've never heard of. I also hate paying full price. On the other hand, we pay just as much if not more for women's skirts and may have to spend even more $ on alterations. This skirt passed the boyfriend test (aka he had no clue it was kids...and he has a good eye for "kiddie fit" faux-pas!).

Overall, the texture is what's drawing me in. I can see this paired with almost all my jackets and cardigans for work ensembles. Below - right under where my hand is you can see an example of the creasing that I mentioned. Not 100% sure what causes it.

Readers - what do you think? At $58, would you keep or return?

PS - Burberry why must you tempt me with this little boucle jacket? I'm more open to their kids jackets after my last order, but this is still exorbitantly priced for what it is.

Building a professional wardrobe for work - Part I

Hi readers! I had some time this weekend and recorded a video, but bear with me as my macbook fan went crazy during the intro. By the time I switched computers, the sun was almost gone...oh, winter : (

I get a lot of questions from women who are just starting to work in business casual / formal environments, regarding where to begin when shopping for work clothes. My answer is usually to invest in black suiting separates (which also comes in handy for future interviews) and wear them as coordinates with what's already in your closet. After you have the basic suit down, you can then start building up with pretty blouses and more jackets & skirts in different colors and textures.

When I graduated from college I had just one black Theory jacket and an H&M suiting skirt that were altered to "fit." I pretty much wore that skirt every day with casual tops & cardigans that were already in my wardrobe, and threw on the jacket occasionally as needed. In this video I showcase those two basics, with tips about alterations:


Items shown:
- Black blazer: Theory "Branden" sz 00, retail $375 paid about $150 from outlet and $25 to shorten sleeves
- Black skirt: H&M suiting skirt sz 4, paid $30 retail and $20 for alterations (take in waist and sides)
- Basic pumps: Ann Taylor suede pumps sz 5, retail $155 paid $70 with their last stackable sale

Pretty costly, but since these are classic foundation pieces I am more willing to spend the $. I also started a small compilation of suiting reviews by extra petite bloggers. We definitely don't cover all the bases (ie. Ann Taylor suiting, LOFT suiting, Talbots petites, Brooks Brothers petites, and J.Crew now has 00P suiting) so let me know if you have reviewed a full suit from one of the above retailers.

Readers - what are the "foundation pieces" in your work wardrobe?

Petite Friendly Blazers: Theory Gabe and Sparkle and Fade

Meet Gabe, my new blazer plucked from the clearance rack at Boomies. I wasn't sure about him at first, but the real bf Nick encouraged me to take him home.

Leggings: H&M sz 2 

Blazer: Theory Gabe sz 00 (sleeves folded in)

Wedges: Tory Burch Sophia sz 5.5

Gabe is Theory's most classic blazer - they offer it season after season in their popular "tailor" fabric, in black and at least two other colors. Bloomies online has both the Gabe blazer and Max C. pants in sz 00, as well as the matching Betty sheath dress which is on my work wishlist. 

Continue reading for my review...

Satchel: Speedy 25 w/ DIY pin Necklaces: ebay gray pearls & J.Crew crystal chains

Fit: The shoulders are narrow (but padded) and the torso is cut very slim, but the length and sleeves will be quite long on tiny petites.

For pant or skirt suit purposes, I encourage shorter petites to stay away from Gabe because of the long length. The full suit looked terribly matronly on me, but i think it works as a boyfriend-style blazer.

Measurements: 23" length, 14" across shoulders, 13.5" across the waist, and 24" long sleeves (I have them folded under in the pics by several inches!)

Quality: I think this jacket is tailored impeccably. 96% wool, 4% lycra - the ultimate, comfy suiting material that never wrinkles. Fully lined with three working pockets. Made in the USA.

Value: The $375 retail tag is steep, but you can frequently find Theory on sale at Saks, Bloomies, Neiman and the like. Or you can wait for one of their Friends & Family sales to get 20% or more off. Theory suiting in their "tailor" fabric is well worth the investment in my opinion.

I've been looking for a longer "boyfriend" style jacket for a while, but I actually wasn't sold on Gabe until I tried on this one from Urban Outfitters:

Sparkle & Fade Shawl-Collar Blazer in XS (50% off)

Yeech! Can you note all the differences? I won't even go through a full review with this one.

- long shapeless silhouette = lab technician 

- too-long lapel draws eyes to the crotch instead of the waist

- lack of shoulder structure makes posture look droopy, etc etc. 

*But* I liked the side/back views. This might look great as a casual chic blazer on someone who can pull off that style. It's currently 50% off on the U.O. website with free return shipping.

Readers - What do you like to pair your longer blazers with?

More slim pants - Review: Ann Taylor Capris sz 00P

Many petite favorite retailers are offering slim pants this season and I coudn't be more thrilled. I've always loved slim pants for work, but previously only Theory carried them in small sizes. J.Crew jumped on the bandwagon with the Minnie pant, and now Gap, Ann Taylor, and LOFT each have their versions.

In Boston, most women commute to work in flats, so cropped, slim cut pants are a must-have for me to avoid tripping over long hems. I find them to be more versatile than boot-cut trousers, and much easier to incorporate into weekend casual outfits.

Blouse: Banana Republic 00P

Jacket: Theory Caprine 00P

Pants: Ann Taylor Stretch Twill Capris sz 00P (also comes in black)

Pumps: Ann Taylor Perfect Exotic Pump sz 5

Belt: J.Crew (similar here - love "heather dove")

Even though I just bought a pair of Gap slim crops, I was enticed by Chloe's claim that these pants ran small. They are more like ankle pants on my short 28" inseam legs, which some of you may find asthetically awkward, but I don't mind at all. Continue reading for my review...

Fit: The 00P was very fitted throughout the hips and thigh, but left me with a 1.5" waist gap. Unlike the Gap pair I reviewed, these are side-zip and do not have a trouser front nor belt loops (like the J.Crew Minnies), which is a minus. Under a top, however, the gap isn't too noticeable and the pants stay up fine because the hips are so fitted on me. A trip to the tailor should be able to fix the gap.

Please note that 00P is an online exclusive size for Ann Taylor. This is kind of a bummer since LOFT and BR both carry 00P in stores.

Color: I really love this "cliffside" color...it's like a grayish taupe. All my skinnies are black so this is a welcome change.

Material: 52% cotton, 42% rayon, 6% spandex. This twill feels nice and stretchy and I hope it holds up well after a wash. I asked Chloe beforehand to make sure the material isn't too wrinkle prone, but I did find that it wrinkles at the back of the knee.

Price: At $78 these cost the same as J.Crew's twill Minnies, but there are some pros and cons to each. The Minnies are dry clean only, whereas these are machine washable. The Minnies come in more colors and have nice belt loops, but Ann Taylor has frequent sales and coupons. I got these with the $20 off pants promo, plus another coupon so they came out to be $46.40. Still not cheap for me, but I know I'll get a lot of wear out of 'em.

Verdict: Despite the waist gap, I'm keeping!

The next color on my want list for slim pants is charcoal gray. I'm eying the J.Crew bi-stretch minnies pictured below...oh please, please give us a sale : )

Readers - are you buying in to the slim ankle pant trend? Or do you find it to be too unflattering on shorter legs?

Petite Lookbook: Crisp White and Black

This is Part I of my weekend outlet finds. I adore this little tank and jacket...but keeping the jacket clean will drive me nuts. I found a few white garments in my closet that haven't been worn in a while, and they are all yellowed and yucky! Does anyone have tips on how to maintain and store crisp whites?

Jacket: Theory Caprine in sz 00

Ruffled tank: Theory Raquella sz P

Belt: Banana Republic XS

Jeans: H&M Kids sz 11/12 years

Wedges: BCBG 5.5

I <3 Theory. Their jackets seem to be getting more and more "shrunken" fit, and I'm not complaining! I exercised much self control at the Theory outlet this time...ended up with 2 items for under $95!


I'm also in love with this supersoft tank w/ 100% silk trim. For once, it actually fits me like it does on the model! I didn't realize it retailed for so much. It was just $19 at the outlet!

Now, compare the fit of the above tank with this button-up in the same size (Theory sz P):

Atrocious! This is why I detest trying on button-ups.

I'm filing this outfit under both work and casual because I'll probably wear this to work on a Friday. If you think this outfit looks familiar, it's probably because you've seen a similar version worn by my West coast wardrobe twin, AlterationsNeeded. She has this same jacket in black linen. Is it my imagination, or does hers look longer?

What street?

Review: Petite Suiting Under $500 - Theory sz 00

This is my last post in the petite-friendly suiting series. I rushed to put this up today, because there are two Theory sales going on this weekend - rare! The most classic suit from this brand retails for about $620 (jacket + pants), but this weekend you can grab it for $465 after sales.

Since the items are still quite expensive, my picks from this sale are Theory's most classic items in their popular "Tailor" fabric. They make new items in this fabric season after season, so it's the perfect choice for an investment suit. The suit is currently available in 4 colors:

1. Gabe B. Blazer in sz 00
2. Max C trouser pants in sz 00 (view here on AN post-alterations)
3. Betty Sheath Dress in sz 0 (view here on DiaryofaShopper and here again styled differently - #15)

And just for fun, a slim work pant that I loved here on Stylepint: Theory Ibbey Pant in sz 00.

Now for my review:

Jacket: Theory Branden Jacket, sz 00

Pants: Theory Mark B pants, sz 00

Blouse: Ann Taylor sz XXSP

Patent pumps: Nine West sz 6

Continue reading for more...

Alterations done: sleeves shortened ($24), pants hemmed and legs slimmed ($15). 

These pics were taken a few weeks ago (I miss you, long wavy hair!) when I was making my blog banner. Most readers know of my love for Theory by now, so I will keep this review brief.

Pros: Great fabrics that I can wear over and over again without steaming/ironing, tiny blazers, and impeccable tailoring. I've had coworkers who are completely disinterested in fashion compliment me on my basic black Theory pieces. Jackets in sz 00 and sheath dresses in sz 0 usually fit me perfectly.

Cons: Length (the brand is not made for petites, so a pants hem is a must and sleeve shortening a costly maybe), price, and frequent lack of lining. I have several items from Theory that really need a lining (itchy tweeds, wool, etc) but don't have one.

Consensus: Despite all the "cons," Theory is my favorite suiting brand out of all the ones I reviewed. In person, the quality and cut are noticeably better than BR or AT, and most definitely Express. Also, even though I have to hem off what looks like a foot of fabric, the fit still comes out looking normal. To avoid alterations, look for items that look "shrunken" or cropped on the models.

I wanted to show how the pants fit pre-leg slimming alterations. The Mark B cut I am wearing is similar to the Max C, except with wider legs. I couldn't decide if I liked a boot cut or straight leg, but luckily I bought two pairs of the same pants, and had my tailor take in one : ) Above photos are the straight leg; below is the original boot cut. The waist was perfect, but something funny is going on in the thighs:

Other Theory shoppers out there - what are some of your fave pieces? Any qualms or dislikes about the fit/quality? I'm interested in hearing your thoughts.