In the Dressing Room

Happy Friday cuties!  Y’all know I like to keep things upbeat and positive around here, but there’s no denying this has been a rough and emotional couple of months.  Our own city is slowly but surely recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Harvey and everyday I’m seeing on the news and hearing from you in Florida what you are going through with Hurricane Irma.  One thing’s for sure- when disasters like this happen, people pull together and you get to see first hand the heart and resilience of those around you. I really hope you are feeling the love and support surrounding you.  We are continuing to help our friends and neighbors here and will for a long time. I’m praying for you and all of us!

It’s been awhile since my last Dressing Room post, and I think I went a little crazy with this new one! I blame in on the change of seasons, our dip in temps, and allllll the new, adorable things out for Fall!  I did the dirty work #roughjob;) and culled through tons of new things to bring you the best fall fashions, including fabulous sweaters, thin knits that are great fall transition pieces, dreamy cardigans, a quality cinched-waist military vest, a great pair of high-waist black jeans that give you legs for days, and fall-friendly dresses!

In fact, there was so much goodness that I’ll be breaking this Dressing Room post into two, so you don’t have a fall fashion heart attack!

For fit reference, keep in mind I’m super short, just 5’1, about 105, 108 pounds.  I often wear petite or size down for the best fit for my frame, but I’m also busty (34D) with ‘athletic’ i.e. big legs, so that can be a challenging combo. 

H&M grey v neck sweater

H&M Knit Sweater XS ⋅ Frayed Hem Jeans 0P ⋅ Similar Peep Toe BootiesBar Necklace ⋅ Ring Trio

I’m all about the thin knit sweaters this time of year and beyond because they are so perfect for early fall and into our mild winters.  This one drapes beautifully and I like the wider, open v-neck.  You can wear it with a mini tuck or untucked and it has cute side slits that give you the illusion of a longer leg.

This sweater felt great on and I found it at H&M, which isn’t a store I usually shop at online, but I’m taking a second look because they have some cute things and FREE shipping if you spend $40. If you like H&M, let me know and I’ll keep checking it out.  You can’t beat their prices!  Even though I find some things there are too juvenile or poor quality, there are some hidden gems!

And aren’t these Frayed Hem Jeans pictured above cute?! I’ve actually already been wearing them on repeat since trying them on because they are so comfortable with plenty of stretch and a nice darker wash. The frayed hem at the bottom is a fun detail that is great for your casual days.

Don’t rule out black jeans as a staple in your wardrobe!  For fall and winter, they are espeically on trend and you can obviously wear every color with them- even mixing brown and black! As for this particular pair, talk about legs for days!  I’ve come to appreciate a higher waist jean as I don’t have my 21 year old body anymore.  #sigh I like how the waist on these keeps your tummy tamed and they hug your body in all the right places for a slimming effect.

black stripe top and black jeans

Halogen Long Sleeve Tee XSP here, kept XS ⋅ Black Hi Rise Jeans 24 ⋅ Mules ⋅ Fan Necklace ⋅ Coil Ring

You saw this top with my cargo tie waist pants earlier this week, so you know this one definitely came home with me!  This type of thin, fitted long sleeve top is a great basic that does double duty as a layering piece under vests and cardigans.  See the dusty pink one in the next picture for that layered look. I tried on XSP here, but kept the XS that you saw in the cargo pants post so it wouldn’t be so clingy.

Fit tip:  You might notice that I look quite busty #ohheyboobs! in the black and white stripe top (I was wearing this padded, push up bra) and less busty in the same pink top below (wearing this pretty, lightly padded bra).  I prefer the less busty look in this top.  But, if you want your girls up and at ’em, this is the bra for that.  It’s very comfy on and I wear it and the Perfect T-Shirt bra most days.

That black and white stripe top above comes in a multitude of colors, and I was drawn to this dusty pink that looks fantastic with the army green military vest.

pink top military vest

Halogen Long Sleeve Tee XSP ⋅ Military Vest XSP ⋅ Skinny Crop Jeans 24P ⋅ Booties ⋅ Bar Necklace ⋅ Coil Ring

This military vest will definitely be a MUST HAVE for your fall wardrobe.  It’s the clear choice for weather that’s still on the warmer side with a tee or lightweight long sleeve top, then a heavier knit underneath when the weather chills. This vest cinches at the waist and comes in regular and petite so it won’t overwhelm a small frame.  I love the quality and pockets and it’s machine washable.

white boatneck top military vest

Caslon 3/4 Boatneck Top XSP ⋅ Caslon Military Vest ⋅ Skinny Crop Jeans 24P ⋅ Booties  ⋅ Bar Necklace ⋅ Coil Ring ⋅ Delicate Bracelet ⋅ Rose Gold Watch

Do you love a boatneck, 3/4 sleeve tee as much as I do?!  They just make me feel ballerina chic for some reason and I have this one is a few colors.  The white isn’t as opaque as I’d hoped it would be, but it’s not super sheer.  It just seems the others colors are more opaque.  Of course, as a layering piece, it’s a non-issue.

Striped top military jacket

V-Neck Sweater XSP

Stripes and military vests are a classic combo that will never go out of style. This lightweight v-neck sweater is another MUST HAVE!  Tuck it in or leave it out and you’ll love layering your colorful scarves with it this winter.  I also like how the stripes mismatch up the middle. Does it make you crazy?!

striped vneck sweater

V-Neck Sweater XSP

front tuck top

Top SP

This pajama soft top with a little front faux tuck haunted me since my last Dressing Room post when I didn’t snatch it up!  I had to have it, so I took this pretty aqua color home with me, but there’s lots of color options.  It’ so dreamy soft and of course I wasted no time and already wore it this week! Our weather is supposed to heat back up again this week, so you’ll probably see me in it with jean shorts!

I have a whole cardigan post coming for you soon, but I wanted to share a couple of the standouts here first in case you’re as anxious as I am to pull out those layering favorites.  Being only 5’1 and petite, it can be hard for me to find a cardi that doesn’t swallow me, but I found some that come in both regular and petite.

long thin cardi

Long Cardi XSP ⋅ Skinny Boyfriend Jeans 0P ⋅ Mules

I thought this one might feel too long on me, but with the lightweight linen blend material, the longer length actually makes you look elegant and tall!  You can wear this one now casually with jeans, but it will also dress up pretty for the office with pants or a skirt or even over a dress.  It comes in several colors and the light pink is gorgeous and feminine.

ruched sleeve cardigan

Ruched Cardigan XS

This cardigan with ruched sleeves is so cozy and soft!  This one you’ll want to laze around in on the weekend because it’s that comfortable.  The ruched sleeves give it a relaxed vibe and they look good pushed up, but are long enough to wear down to your wrists. It runs TTS and the XS hit me mid thigh.  There’s lots of color options and the plum is a nice hue for fall.

loft sweater cardigan

Ribbed Swing Cardigan XS 50% off 

I’m crazy for this thick knit open cardigan!  It’s a nice shorter length, but not too short and has fun slight bell sleeves.  It’s 100% cotton and machine washable! Total cardigan homerun!  #yesplease

Loft white sweater

Sweater SP

How sweet is this little white chevron patterned sweater?!  It’s got a nice scallop neck detail and a slightly puffy sleeve.  You’ll get a lot of mileage out of this one because you can wear it with jeans, slacks, and skirts. I tried on SP here and XSP below, but kept the SP.  You can size up for a looser fit, but I liked it fitted.

Loft sateen pants

Sweater XSP ⋅ Skinny Pant Leggings (tried on 24P, got 25P)

I was thrilled to see these 5 pocket sateen skinny pants again.  I bought a pair last year in dark green and loved them so much because they are so comfortable!  They are a cross between a pant (with the pockets, zip fly and belt loops) and legging (with the hugging fit), but they look great with so many variety of tops, especially longer tunics. They have lots of fun fall colors like purple, plum and red.  You really need to feel these on because they are just so dang soft! I cuffed the ankle here to show some ankle, but they also look good with tall boots.

polka dot sweater

Sweatshirt XXSP ⋅ Black Hi Rise Jeans 24

Similarly, this polka dot sweater will also look great with jeans and skirts.  Both this top and the white one above are thin enough to tuck in if you wanted to.  And how cute is the removable ruffle collar?  The XXSP is a little snug on me, I’d say it runs a tad big, but XSP would probably be my perfect fit.

one shoulder sweatshirt pink

One Shoulder Sweatshirt XXS ⋅ Skinny Boyfriend Jeans 0P ⋅ Mules

One shoulder tops are hot this season, and you can even add a little lacy bra if you want to up the ante.  This sweatshirt is slouchy goodness and also comes in grey.  Bring on the fall weekends! Would be cute with these pink sneaks!

tie sleeve sweatshirt

Tie Sleeve Sweater XS

I liked this sweater with contrasting neck and sleeve detail as a nice work top.  It’s really soft the tie sleeves are a fun detail- although I thought they were too long, so I’d give them a snip. You can tuck this sweater into your pants or skirt or leave it out.

off shoulder white top

Off Shoulder Top XS ⋅ Skinny Boyfriend Jeans 0P ⋅ Mules

Be careful if you’re busty on this one, I think I’d pull it off better if I wasn’t wearing my padded, push-up bra!  The material is nice and thick though, so it does a good job at keeping you all smoothed out and would be so cute tucked into an A-line skirt.  It also comes in black. #hawt

H&M pink crewneck sweater

Knit Crewneck Sweater S ⋅ Frayed Hem Jeans 0P ⋅ Similar Peep Toe BootiesBar Necklace ⋅ Ring Trio

Again with the thin knit sweater, I was crazy for this soft pink color and crew neckline, perfect for showing off a statement necklace if you wanted to dress it up.

H&M V neck sweatshirt

V-Neck Sweatshirt S ⋅ Frayed Hem Jeans 0P ⋅ Similar Peep Toe BootiesBar Necklace ⋅ Ring Trio

I fell hard for this v-neck sweatshirt.  It’s so soft and cuddly and a steal at only $15! Love, love, love!

H&M pink chunky knit sweater

Chunky Knit Sweater XS ⋅ Frayed Hem Jeans 0P ⋅ Similar Peep Toe BootiesBar Necklace ⋅ Ring Trio

I know it might be a bit early for the chunky knit sweaters, but I’m a texture and softness junkie, so this billowy soft, almost velvety sweater was a must have for me.  I went ahead and bought it for winter just to make sure it didn’t sell out before then.  The soft pink color is also really pretty and sometimes I prefer a shorter sweater when it’s a thick knit because, with the right fitting jeans (like these bootcut jeans), you’ll look like you have loooong legs!

lace tunic

Lace Peplum Top SP (pink) XSP (black)

If we’re talking about getting dressed up for a change, this lace, double ruffled peplum top has date night written all over it.  I tried the black one on with a black cami and just had my nude bra with the pink one, but I think a nude cami would look great under it.  The XSP fit me better.

plaid peplum top

Plaid Peplum Top XSP

I was super bummed that this top was too big on me even in petite, but it’s darling and will look amazing on one of you, I’m sure!  One way to transition to fall when it’s still hot out is to wear more traditionally fall colors and the navy and plum in this plaid print go so well together.  It also has the cutest tie back!

Hinge tank

Ruffle Peplum Tank XS

I’ve already adored this style ruffle peplum tank in aqua for Spring, so I was happy to see it come back in this new darker color for fall.  It’s very figure flattering with the nipped in under-the-bust waist (the smallest part of you) and the flowy peplum bottom.

stripe peplum tank

Stripe Peplum Tank

One more on the peplum tank train is this classic blue and white pinstripe top.  The higher neckline and crisp cotton makes it office appropriate too.  #bonus

green blouse LOFT

Utility Blouse XSP 40% off  Frayed Hem Jeans 0P ⋅ Similar Peep Toe BootiesBar Necklace ⋅ Ring Trio

Speaking of office appropriate, this tailored but soft and silky blouse is a definite winner.  I’d go so far as to call it a MUST HAVE for work. It’s exactly the type of top I always used to wear in my old legal days and I prefer this style that is slimmer fitting, because it still shows a feminine shape.  The roll tab sleeves give it a more casual look, so it’ll also fit in well at church, PTO or anywhere you want to look polished and chic.  Lots of colors available.

Loft Scarves

Plaid Scarf $18 ⋅ Dotted Scarf $7 White Tee  ⋅ Crossbody Bag ⋅  Frayed Hem Jeans 0P ⋅ Similar Peep Toe BootiesBar Necklace ⋅ Ring Trio

Can we pretty please pull out the lightweight scarves yet?! I found these two at Loft and love the first one for the pretty mix of navy and lavender with fringed ends.  The second black and white spotted scarf is the ever popular infinity style.

LOFT tweed work dress

Shimmer Dress 00P 40% off

The online photo does not do this dress justice!  The fabric is on the thicker side, but still stretchy and moveable.  My first picture came out a little blurry, but the color and texture of this dress is awesome!  I loved it especially for work with classic heels. Or you could edge it up with fall booties and a statement necklace.

polka dot dress

Midi Dress XS

Sweet little polka dots and artfully placed ruffles on this midi dress are adorable!  I’m smitten with the fall rust color too.  I love it for a weekend party or daytime lunch with friends. It runs TTS and of course is a little longer on me than the model, but I still like it!

velvet dress

Velvet Midi Dress XS

This velvet midi dress definitely says fall.  It feels so luxe and expensive on, but it’s only $69.  I’m wearing my favorite strapless bra with it and would probably pair it with these chunky suede heels.  If you have a fall party to attend, you’ll be a knockout in this dress.

pink skirt

Pink Skirt  00P

This hot pink two-tiered skirt is so darling, but I felt like it was too big on me. 🙁 I could see this worn so many ways from a colorful blouse on top to black tights and a solid black top with booties for a fall/winter night out.  It also comes in a gorgeous mustard yellow and navy for a more subdued color.

LOFT Shirtdress

Shirtdress XSP 40% off

A shirt dress is tied for my second favorite style dress to wear to work, the other one being a wrap dress.  The pros of the shirt dress though, are that it’s easy to wear and non body-conscious.  This print is particularly pretty with the mix of yellow and blue.  You can wear it with strappy heels now and booties later. I like it as much for work as I do for play.

loft cold shoulder dress 2

Cold Shoulder Dress 00P 40% off

I like the versatility of this dress because, with the modest cold shoulder and length, it could say work from 9-5, then happy hour at 5:01. But, who’s watching the clock?! It’s so figure flattering and the fabric is really comfortable – a mix of rayon and spandex that’s machine washable.

Loft cold shoulder dress

Cold Shoulder Dress 00P ⋅ Dotted Scarf $7

It also looks adorable with that spotted scarf!

And finally, a bit of workout wear because, just because we’re heading into the fall doesn’t mean I want to gain 10 pounds.  I’ve already been stress eating, which isn’t a good thing! Cute workout clothes always give me a little boost of motivation to get going!

zella high waist capri leggingszella high waist capri leggings

Leggings XS ⋅ Top XS

These high waist capri pants are on my list of MUST HAVES for workout wear because they are ultra comfortable and the high waist keeps your tummy all tucked in.  I have them in another pattern and wear them all the time!  This new pink/green camo-ish pattern is so cool! It’s kinda hard to tell, but the calf has a mesh panel that equal parts stylish and functional to help keep you cool.  They run TTS.

I don’t normally exercise in long sleeve tops because I get too hot, but this one is sheer and I could wear it workout in or just to and from the gym, but I felt like it was too big on me.  It’s really cute though with a drawstring waist.

slip on sneakers

Slip-On Sneakers

I joked on IG this week that I must be getting lazy in my old age because I’m all about the slip on sneaker- too lazy to tie my own shoes!  But in all seriousness, if you happen to be 3rd trimester pregnant right now, I know you are so over tying shoes too, so try these!  I got the blush pink, but the grey are a wonderful neutral that will compliment 99% of your wardrobe.  They run a little big, I usually wear 6.5 in sneakers and got the 6.  They are too big, unless I wear a no-show sock.  Going down a whole size to 5.5 was way too little on me.

⋅ weekend steals ⋅

ANN TAYLOR  ⋅ 40% off full priced tops, code TOPITOFF.  This tulip blouse is darling!
ANTHROPOLOGIE ⋅ Extra 25% off sale styles, FREE ship w $150. Want this luxurious jersey cardigan that drapes beautifully and has pockets!
H&M ⋅ Until Sept 30, H&M is matching customer donations to Hurricane Harvey up to $100,000.
JCREW ⋅ 30% off your purchase, code FRIDAY.  #yesplease to this leopard sweatshirt, this houndstooth mini skirt and this darling striped ruffle sleeve top!
LOFT  ⋅ Up to 50% off fall favorite
And thank you SO much for your friendly advice about topics for the fashion talk I’m giving next week!  It’s been immensely helpful and I appreciate you so much! I’m thinking I can also make it into a blog post to share with you here. 
 
Have a great weekend friends! 

 

 

 

 

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Meet Megan

Hi! I’m Megan, mom to a thoughtful teenager and spunky young girl. We call Houston home and recently moved into our dream home. I traded my lawyer hat to become a full-time blogger in 2010. I love sharing my passion for affordable fashion, home decor, organization, & fitness to help inspire you to take care of you!

9 Comments

  1. It would be aewsome for me if you could continue check H&M because here in Greece where I’m living,there is only this company that I can buy from(in logic shipping prices).Although i love ,LOVE reading all your posts!!!!Love ,Georgia

      1. You inspire me in so many ways!!We have in common our children ages(Lydia 6+ and Emmelia 21months!)Actually it is funny how much Jordan and Emmelia look alike.I have to send you a photo of my little to see for yourself.I try to loose some weight,so I’ve been inspired by all of your fitness posts or instant stories!!Finally,I love decorating my apartment!!So that ,s a good reason I believe not to loose any of your posts!!For so many months you are a good friend for me,in some way!Thank you!!?

  2. I LOVE that you did some finds from H&M!! I love all your fashion posts but Nordstrom is out of my price range so I normally just admire from afar 🙂 but some of these are much more doable for me…thank you!!

  3. I love these types of posts! I’m dying over that velvet dress–gorgeous and so perfect for fall nights out. I picked up the blue and yellow floral dress in the store yesterday and it really is even better in person. Tons of good finds here–thanks for sharing and enjoy your weekend!

    1. I’m going crazy for all the new fall clothes! We’ve had such awesome weather here lately, but it’s supposed to get hot again next week- 90s I think! Have a great weekend Michele!

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