'70s Inspired Fit and Flare Coat

ASOS PETITE Fit and Flare Coat with belt Sz2 ,

no brand tights with fleece lining inside ,

Naturalizer Iman Sz4

Love, love, love this '70s inspired coat, as the color (chestnut) and design are a relief from the boring standard black winter coat.  Funnel neck with button fastening and belt to the waist gives extra warmth and detail.  Puffed shoulders and pockets add to unique design.  Fit and Flare style and above knee length add fabric movement. (Got this in size 2 and had to hem the sleeves about  1 ½ inches Length was perfect.  Hem if length falls below knee, so to accentuate legs).  Black tights with fleece lining inside gives extra warmth and provides contrast to coat's color.  And luckily, I have these amazingly comfortable 3 ½ inches ankle boots to match! The shoe is narrow but because I had the tights I didn’t have to wear socks to add bulk in shoe.  What am I wearing under the coat for warmth?  Layering is the key, check out my Layering 101 article.

PS- As this is my first shoot, I was anxious the past night and wasn’t able sleep much due to contemplating- Must I really do this? I forgot my leather gloves which are of course a must in winter. Pick gloves that fit right (snug locks in more warmth) with a warm fabric lining inside like fleece for additional warmth.

American Apparel , Proudly Made in USA!

 End of Season Sale up to 70% Off

When I think American Apparel, I think staple clothing such as T-shirts, leggings, leotards, tank tops, vintage clothing, dresses, pants, denim. I am happy to have some pieces as I support anything made in USA!  Basic colors in tops and bottoms make it easy for mix and match. Watch out for my picks as I head to the store soon!

My Spring Pink Pick: ¾ Sleeved Polo

Ralph Lauren Marlee ¾ Sleeved Polo, sz XS, Luscious Pink

To all pink lovers out there, this ¾ sleeved polo (available in luscious pink)  is a classy and basic addition to your spring wardrobe ! I love Lauren polos as they are timeless and quality pieces – that can be easily matched with most bottoms! I chose the color luscious pink as it is a pop out, ever so reflective of the vibrant spring season coming ahead!  The buttons (in gold, with the Ralph Lauren inscription) are an elegant addition- button up or button down.  The fabric mostly sits close to the skin, adding warmth and the 3/4 sleeve covers up the arms when temperature drops.  Lift up sleeve (for that fringe sleeve look ) when when it gets a bit warmer!

PS-This item is now on sale for  $39.99 originally $54.50 ;)

Spring Pick : In and Out of Love with H & M

H&M Multi Colored Sequined Above the Knee Dress

Although the weather has been 'spring like' in winter here in the North East , I cant wait for real spring to arrive!  Everything seems brighter -including the dismal folks in the subway ;) I love the flowers in New York City- their canvass are unending background to my imaginary runway!

So, my discovery of H & M sizing for petites (1,2,3 mostly) and low priced steals – led me to a date with the West 34^th St. store  in New York at least once a week (heck, more than I see my doctors) and it is like most encounters- sweet and bitter at times, in and out of love I would say.

But mostly in love.

I love H & M because they have clothing that fits the petite frame  just right most of the time. Because the pieces are voguish yet never ran of style. I love the forward and avant-garde clothing designs that give an attitude to outfitting!   Tops and bottoms are flexible mix and match. And lastly, because I can spend a few dollars and look like a million dollars!  Ladies, this all sounds good right?

Cant wait to try on this multi colored glitter above the knee dress from H & M, and send reviews soon!

The Verdict : This one runs large in size. Size 2 for me is bit larger than expected. Also, the sequined fabric may run after a few uses. It is not figure flattering which is a concern for me - being tiny as I am, I need to accentuate my frame. But hey, some of 'ya may just rock this dress! So, i am un-picking this one!

Layering 101

As I strongly oppose bulky coats because they don’t give justice to petite frames, I have experimented over and over again as to how to achieve warmth in the dropping temperatures in New York City.

Layering is key in dressing for winter  and it is also the solution to bulkiness that we petite women want and need to avoid :)  Here are my suggestions:

1. Use shape wear or thermal wear as base, they trap air and give defined shape. 

Lands' End Women's Petite Thermaskin™Heat Turtleneck, 

This thermal turtleneck is a basic winter garment. This is a good base layer as it maintains body's heat.  Great layering piece without the bulk, and will serve as substitute for 2 or 3 layers of clothing.  I usually wear shape wear  (i.e. Spanx) under or a tight tank top to lock in more warmth and it works wonders!

2. Wear layers of thin knit fabrics on top so you won't bulk up- they are form fitting and warm.

Talbots Kate Fit Velveteen Jacket

Choose tops that are made of wool, flannel or tweed Mohair. On top of all my layers is this beautiful velvet jacket (red in picture,  I prefer black as it goes with everything) It is  still thin for me to put on a black coat on top, which I peel off when indoors. Curvy and sits close to the body, contouring the shoulders, bust and arms and defining the waist.

3. Wear with Thermal Bottom for more warmth and top off with tights with fleece lining inside.



No Panty Line Promise Modal Long Jane 



This is thin enough to wear under tights and pants without a bulky feel, warm enough for  a cold winter day.  It also has the No Panty Line® seam that keeps this layer hidden underneath.

My Coat Picks

Exclusive Tailored Coat

Asos PETITE Exclusive Tailored Coat

With proper layering, this coat will keep you warm, super classy and fab! Wear with layers, last being a black or brownish color turtle neck and leather/faux leather tight leggings. Top off with heels or ankle boots and look like a star!



ASOS Pleated Coat with Fold Over Collar



Ladies, this coat is glam! Red gives is a pop out color in winter! Fold down collar adds warmth. Central  button placket to the front, pleats and a swing A-line shape for nice, nice detail. Wear with black tights and black heels. Put on a black hat and red lipstick to jazz it up