Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Who Wears Short Shorts?

The answer: American Eagle and Hollister do! Just in time for spring (well, the fashion industry's spring), both stores have introduced their latest shortie shorts, in denim, twill and nylon.
Check out Hollister's ultra-cute and ultra-dark Stone Steps Beach ($34.50), or American Eagle's light wash Studded Denim Shortie shorts ($39.50).
For an adorable preppy look, try the AE Favorite Short ($29.50, with a choice of eight cool colors like Radiant Coral and Lime Sprout). Or try HCo's patterned Surfer's Knoll ($34.50).
The best beach look, hands down, has to be Surfrider's Beach ($29.50, from Hollister), which is available in white, pink, bright turquoise and navy. You'll be sure to stand out on the waves or in the sand in these.
So this spring, don't forget to go short!

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Less is More!

Have you ever wondered why less actually is more? It's hard to get a real answer for that one, but one possible answer (for petites anyway), is that less makes you look "more", and by that I mean taller. In this case, the shorter the dress, the longer and leaner you'll look...to a point, of course (I'm not suggesting skimpy dresses, just ones that fall above the knee).
It's almost the season for dresses, and with all the styles out there, it's easy to be confused about which ones look best on your frame. Maxidresses are a no-no for petites; they are way too overwhelming. That's where a shorter dress comes in.
If the fabric only falls to your knees, it will really elongate your legs and make them look miles long. Also, a fitted look is nice; it will create curves but not look too trashy.
Try Hollister's Sycamore Cove ($49.50) for a classic, cute dress. If you're more conscious about your arms, El Porto Beach ($24.50) offers the perfect solution: three quarter length sleeves. And wherever you go, seek out styles that have an empire-style waist and a smaller bust area!

Spring Ahead!

What's hot this spring? Updated pastels, bright florals and cute short shorts!
While Hollister still offers their winter 2009 apparel in stores and online, they have a preview of springwear to come on their website. Check out Faria Beach ($39.50), a classic plaid shirt that looks springy with its pastel palette. Or Clobberstones ($49.50), an adorable summery dress with a tropical flair. And the shorts (1000 Steps Beach, $34.50) (Stone Steps Beach, $34.50) are also not to be missed and are perfect for springtime picnics and shopping sprees.
If these don't appeal to you, check out their other new tops, available online only until February 12. Happy shopping!

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Springy, Swingy Skirts

Wanna know about a spring trend before anyone else does? The answer is...spring-like skirts.
They're popping up everywhere, from Hollister to American Eagle. They come in florals, solids and other patterns. And they're one step ahead of the summery miniskirt, because they have a longer knee-length fit.
These breezy skirts are perfect for a spring picnic, shopping with the girls and even a cute fashion statement at school. They look great with solid or graphic tees (for a more casual look) and blouses or tanks (for a dressier style).
Check out AE's Ditzy Floral Skirt in blue or chalk ($34.50) for a sweet daytime look. Or Hollister's Swami's Beach ($49.50) for school. And AE's Nautical Skirt looks nice enough to wear to work and on a date.

Accesorize Wisely!

It's not all about the perfect jeans, or the cute top. Sometimes, the accesories really make (or break) the outfit.
You may think, "What's the big deal? How can I possibly not know how to pick the right accesories? It's all about matching, isn't it?" But that's wrong. It's good to match, of course, but you don't want to end up with a look that's too matchy-matchy. Instead, look for a necklace, handbag or shoes that draws out one of the colors in your outfit--this will really make it pop!
For petites, though, it's also about scale. And by that I mean, don't get something that's too big for your frame. Don't pick out an over-the-top statement necklace; get a more delicate version that still screams, "Cute!". And skip the huge totes in favor of smaller purses (unless, of course, you have a lot to carry, but you should still stick with the not-so-big bags).
If you want to enhance your outfit, without overwhelming your frame, use these tips the next time you go acccesory-shopping for the perfect style, every time.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

End-of-Season Clearance At American Eagle!

While most of us are well-aware that winter has barely begun, the clothing world is already a step ahead of us: they are already getting rid of their cold-weather merchandise. But that's good news for anyone with a small budget and a big need (or maybe just want) for some winter apparel.
American Eagle Outiftters is currently having a great sale on tights, outerwear and even their ever-popular jeans. Some styles of socks are as cheap as $3.95, stylish tights are available for $6.95, flats cost as little as $11.95 and jeans range from $29.95-$59.50! Most coats and vests, perfect for chilly days, are also great deals.
Take advantage of end-of-season sales to get your winter gear cheap and before it disappears!

Monday, January 11, 2010

Petite Pick of January

I am starting a new type of post that will appear every month: my Petite Pick. It's a showcase of a recent (or not so recent) outfit I have purchased that really highlights a petite figure in a flattering way.
This month's pick is the AE Classic Cardigan in bell navy (now in clearance for $19.95), a blue floral babydoll tank from Hollister, the AE Slim Boot jean in deep indigo and the AE Cable Knit Clog in grey (also only $19.95).
Cardigans are very flattering for petites because they don't drown you and hit above the waist for a torso-lengthening look. Also, they are great to throw on before class or even a night out on the town, and can be easily dressed up or down.
The babydoll style tank is perfect, because it is dressy enough so you look put-together for day time but isn't too elegant. The style is also great, because it enhances smaller bustlines. And the floral pattern is big enough to draw attention to your small figure but not overwhelm it.
The slim boot cut jeans are just right; they don't tend to drag on the floor like regular flares do and the dark wash is dressy and makes you look long and lean.
Finally, the clogs are a simple but cute go-to option when you will be on your feet all day and don't want to risk breaking a heel. For a date, try some nice looking neutral heels.
Try making your own outfit for a look that really makes your amazing frame pop!