My Petite Issues

Why is it so hard to find jeans that fit?

Overall, I like being petite. Back in middle school and high school, I hated it because I felt so much shorter than everyone else. I've always been one of the smallest in my classes and all the jokes got old fast. People never thought I was my age even though I was always dressed well--when I was a freshman in high school people thought I still belonged in middle school! It was also hard seeing my little sister (who's 3 and a half years younger than me) start to tower above me. She's now 5'5, while I'm stuck at a measly 5'1! For a little while, we used to be able to wear each other's clothes--that was when I was a freshman and sophomore and she was a fifth and sixth-grader! Now we still have a similar taste in clothing, but can't trade. But here in college, I'm trying to embrace my smallness. People don't automatically assume you're younger just because you look like it, and it's nice to see other petite girls around campus.

Now my only problem is finding clothes that fit, in particular, jeans. I'm still wearing juniors sizes, and usually a size 0. I don't know what size I'll be once I transition into adult stores, but the problem I'm having now is usually with the length of the jeans. I have a pair of jeans I got this past January from American Eagle in a size 00 Regular and they fit pretty well. A month or so ago, I went to America Eagle to get some more jeans and I tried on a size 0 Short. Well, they were wayyyyy too long, for starters! I would have had to have gotten them majorly tailored for me not to trip over them. Also, I've noticed the trend in juniors jeans at least is going towards more fitted, jegging-like jeans. So even flares and boot-cuts are fitting more like skinnies in the thigh. I'm not a big fan of skinnies, so I'm really disappointed in the jean selection. I've been thinking of trying petite adult jeans, but again, I don't know what size I'd be.

But then I saw the AE Vintage Flare Jean and I fell in love. It's like a blast from the past: bell-bottom-like jeans that aren't too fitted. I read the reviews and people said they loved them. Then I checked the sizing and realized that the jeans only come in a regular inseam! What?! And some of the petite reviewers said that yes, they were too long and wished they would come in a short inseam too. Not to mention all the taller ladies out there, who would like a long or extra-long inseam. Yes, I know that most of the female population falls somewhere around the 5'4-5'6 range but still. In my opinion, 5'1 is not that short, and I should be able to easily find jeans that fit. My legs aren't particularly short, I can usually wear a 29-30" inseam, but this regular inseam is at least 2" longer than that, so the jeans are a no-go for me.

Have any of you out there had problems finding jeans that fit? Feel free to leave your comments, complaints, etc. Oh, and if any of you know what pants size I'd be in petites (adults), that would be great to know too! I wear a size 0 in juniors. Thanks!

Teacher's Pet

A simple school-girl outfit for any age!

Think back to elementary school, when you actually enjoyed waking up and going to school everyday (or maybe not), recess was the highlight of your day and your hardest decision was deciding whether you'd trade your friend your pudding for her chocolate chip cookie. Oh, how I miss those times, especially now that I'm spending most of my weekends studying and catching up on homework from the week (that's college for ya). Even if you're way too old to pass for a grade-schooler, you can still reminisce about those simpler days with this all-grown-up "school-girl" outfit.

I love Hollister's Wheeler Point cardi ($39.50) in dark pink. It's one of my current "lust items", and hopefully I'll be buying it in a week or two. But it makes a perfect base for this outfit. It's just a cute, basic sweater in a very girly shade--perfect for an elementary-school girl. Pair it with a basic light pink tank (try El Matador, $11.89) and it's good to go.

Gilly Hicks' Scotland Island skirt ($39.50) in dark pink is also very school-girl. It's a fun, bold navy-and-magenta plaid that would make any prep school proud.
Now it's time for my favorite part--the accessories. Try some bright pink socks, such as GH's adorable knee-highs (no longer available). Or go for a simple pair of ballet flats in navy or pink (unless there's too much pink for your taste). Don't forget the quintessential glasses--American Eagle's Readers Glasses ($15.50) will instantly perk up your look and make you look smarter!

So the next time you wish you could go back to your fifth grade class, put on an outfit like this one and remember the good old days!

Save $$, Stay Stylish!

It's one of the worst feelings in the world: finding a piece you absolutely can't live without and then looking at the price tag and...realizing you probably can't afford it. It can be really sad having to put that handbag back on the shelf or the sweater back on the rack because it's out of your price range. But you can get the same look...for less!

First off, the Ugg Coquette slipper. At first glance, it's cute--high quality sheepskin and a stylish plush collar, not to mention how warm and cozy they are. But they're $100. For almost half the price ($54), you can get the Bearpaw Loki slipper, which is just as (if not more) cute. The hickory suede color is my personal fave--the shade is just so rich-looking. These are also lined with sheepskin, and while they lack the Ugg name, they look nearly identical and hold up just as well. Why not spend that $46 dollars on something else?

Abercrombie &Fitch is one of my favorite stores. I would buy more things there if I could...but I can't, because they are too expensive for a college student like me (even when my parents chip in!) So I mostly have a few cheaper A&F items or ones that were clearanced. But Hollister, while expensive to some, is a much better option for me. Take the Hailey sweater ($150) from A&F. I don't think I would ever spend that much on a sweater until I'm an adult with a full-time job. Sure, it's pretty and it's 100% cashmere, but I can't afford to shell that much cash out for one piece. But HCo.'s El Morro sweater ($39.50) is much cheaper, and looks almost identical. It's a cotton/viscose/angora blend but I appreciate the price tag. I could spend that $110 on so much more!
I also appreciate how much Hollister saves me on coats and totes. The Classic Cali Tote ($19.50) in olive is practically the same as the Vintage Tote ($48) in green, except the difference in logos. Why would I pay $28 more for a tote that says 'Abercrombie'? I certainly wouldn't, when I could buy a cute top for that price difference! Hollister's Harbor Cove belted puffer jacket ($140) is a steal compared to A&F's Larissa belted puffer jacket ($200). Both coats are made of the exact same material; any smart shopper would know to go with the cheaper option. And it's not like Hollister's clothes are poorer quality, they're also a pretty well-respected brand. There are so many things you can get with that $60. And finally, the Fletcher Cove puffy vest ($59.89) is a better deal than the Addison puffy vest ($98). Similar colors, same look, better price. Save that $38 for a rainy day.
Now go out and be a savvy shopper!

Weekend Warrior Part 3

I always look forward to a weekend at home now that I'm in college. Once Friday rolls around, a lot of people are headed out of town--to go home or maybe visit friends at other colleges. I enjoy spending time with my family a couple of times a month because we always end up doing something fun, whether it's going shopping (!) or going out of town for a day trip. Here's the perfect outfit for your weekend at home, whether it's spent at a friend's place or with your family.

I always feel my best when I'm wearing a skirt. I'm not quite sure why, but I feel even girlier and prettier than usual. I also have an addiction to plaid, so Abercrombie's Josey skirt ($50) in green plaid, is the perfect weekend skirt for me. I'd pair it with Hollister's El Morro cardi ($39.50) in green and a simple navy blue tank top, like the San Onofre lacy tank ($19.50). This look is the perfect mix between casual and dressy, so it's great for walking around downtown and then grabbing lunch or a shopping spree at the mall followed by a restaurant dinner with the fam. Shoes, of course, are essential, but skip anything that's not comfortable, no matter how cute they are. Stick with a pa

ir of leather flip-flops, such as the HCo. Vintage Cali Flip Flops ($29.50). And, don't skimp on the accessories! Try a sparkly necklace, like the AE Pretty Little Necklace ($15.50) and a stack of bangles (AE Stud Bangle Set, $15.50). Now all that's left is to soak up the fun!

Getting Ready For Winter

I love October--it's like the gateway month into the holiday season, which I am anticipating more than ever this year. On top of that, the temperatures are starting to cool down and the smell of fall is in the air. But it's not too early to get your wardrobe ready for winter. Here are a few must-haves to add to your shopping list--bonus: they're all available in stores now, so by the time the cold weather starts to kick in, they'll be on clearance! Or you can stock up now and store them for later.



With outfits like these, you're sure to stay warm this winter!



SWEATERS: Who doesn't love a great, cozy sweater? They're so versatile and great for layering over just about anything. The only downside is that there are so many different styles this season to choose from! For an unexpected twist, try a short-sleeve sweater (AE Chunky Knit Short Sleeve Sweater, $39.50) over a basic long-sleeved tee (AE Long Sleeve V-Neck T, $19.50) for added warmth. Another option is the classic button-down cardigan (Hollister 1000 Steps Beach, $59.50, Epic only). This one in particular is great for the holidays--the cream version has little red hearts and it looks like the classic Christmas sweater, only cuter. Cardis work best over knit tanks (A&F's Tessa tank, $30--the tiered peplum hem detail makes it even better) and under jackets (try HCo.'s Lake Hodges denim jacket, $89.50, for a cozy look).



JACKETS: Speaking of jackets, you'll probably need one this winter. Where I live (in Colorado), it snows a lot but is still usually sunny, so jackets are still a must in the morning at least. Don't settle for a boring one, though, since you'll be wearing it all winter! I'd suggest buying at least two, if you can afford it, so you can switch it up depending on the outfit or your mood or the weather. For a lightweight jacket perfect for fall days, try a hoodless cotton jacket (like A&F's Gwyneth coat, $59.89). The khaki color on this one looks great over just about anything and it's durable enough to keep the wind out. On colder, snowier days, look for a coat that's a little more heavy-duty (Hollister's Ormond Beach puffer jacket, $79.89). Puffy coats are still stylish and this one comes in a wide array of colors--you may have a hard time choosing!



BOOTS: I really love my Bearpaw boots. I got them last year in chocolate and now I want the same pair in chestnut or gray. I also like some of the boots that American Eagle is offering this year, like the AE Button Warm & Fuzzy Boot ($39.50). They just look so cozy I can't resist. I always wear my boots with tights and a miniskirt, but they also work with skinny jeans. And I still want to get the Bearpaw Loki (a suede and sheepskin mule) in chestnut. I know they're not technically boots, but I still would love to have them.


What are you wanting this winter?



Weekend Warrior Part 2

Are you headed to a party this weekend, and have no clue what to wear? Here are some tips, and a great outfit idea, to get you party-ready!

This cute outfit is sure to turn heads at any dance or dorm party...it's even great for a friend's b-day! Try a floral dress, like Hollister's Jack Creek ($44.50) that doesn't scream summer. The muted shades on this one make it work for fall but the pattern is still fun and fresh. Layer the Wheeler Springs cardi ($39.50) in turquoise over it to keep warm on the way to and from the party--if you get hot once you're there, you can always stash it in your bag. Speaking of bags, bring along a simple tote to store your makeup, cash and cell, plus a little extra room for your sweater and heels (once the party gets going, you'll probably want to slip into more comfortable shoes). The AE Utility Tote ($39.50) in navy looks great with your outfit and has plenty of room in case you have to hold onto a friend's stuff, too. As far as shoes go, surprise everyone with a stunning pair of wedges (such as the Steve Madden Valour in teal fab, $29.99 at Famous Footwear) but keep some basic flip-flops in your tote than you can slip into later when your feet get tired (try American Eagle's Havaianas Top Metallic Flip Flop in metallic silver, $18). Accessories, of course, are a must for any outfit, but especially for a party. Look for sparkly pieces that will catch everyone's eye, such as the AE Blue Statement Necklace ($15.50) and the AE Heart Ring ($15.50). 

With your outfit all planned, go out and have some fun wherever you're headed!

Weekend Warrior Part 1

Here at college, I've been shocked to discover that many girls rarely dress up. They regularly wear sweats, gym shorts or a basic tee and jeans to class with their hair pulled up in a ponytail. For many people, comfort comes before style...but not me! I know I might be seen as 'high-maintenance' but I'm proud of that label. I don't mind waking up 2 hours before I have to leave for class to get ready. I sometimes pick out my outfits a week in advance if I know the weather forecast. I never go anywhere without my makeup done and real clothes on. Even on the weekends.

If you're not like me and have a harder time picturing yourself spending time doing your hair and choosing a cute outfit, try some of these tips for dressing on the weekends. This time, it's all about the study-and-hang-out weekend.
So you have a lazy afternoon or two ahead of you. Maybe you don't have any plans and are just gonna hang around your house with a friend or just be on Facebook all day. Or maybe you've got a killer essay that's due on Monday. Either way, you probably don't feel much like pulling on clothes other than the pjs you just slept in. You can still look like you put in some effort without really trying with this outfit: the AE Super Dark Destroyed Jegging ($49.50)--the great thing about jeggings are that they look like a polished pair of skinnies but feel more like a lived-in pair of leggings; Hollister's Ventura Beach V-neck tee ($15.50)--no matter which color you choose, the design will be adorable and you'll be speaking out for a good cause; the Boat Canyon zip-up hoodie ($29.89)--great if you get a little chilly and it looks cute, not bulky, layered over the tee; the AE Button Warm & Fuzzy Boot ($39.50)--great for slipping into in case a friend stops by and wants to go for a walk. Don't forget the accessories! You can go simple on these, too, but make sure they stand out, like the AE Multichain Necklace ($19.50).
This weekend, step out of your cozy comfort zone and try an outfit that's cute and comfy!