Lately for the occasional date or girls night, I’ve been reaching for more all-black looks and trading feminine dresses for sleek leather leggings. The (faux) leather finish elevates a basic black legging for travel, a day at the zoo, casual winter wear, and can also be dressed up with an interesting blouse for evening (or try a slouchy, off shoulder sweater for a sexy cozy appeal).
For an alternative going out look keeping in the chic train of thought, I featured this jumpsuit from Express last year and it’s back in more colors (like a dusty blue) and petite sizing! And for a classic dress option, I tried on this satin slip style dress which can be surprisingly versatile (think layering a sweater or tee + moto jacket over it to wear as a slip skirt with sneakers). Slip dresses and skirts have made a big comeback in recent years, and this one hit the right notes in its simplicity, the smooth medium weight of the satin, and the fit (grazes the figure elegantly without being too fitted).
BELTED FLUTTER SLEEVE PEPLUM TOP
This is a very shapely blouse that combines romantic flutter sleeves and peplum hem, with a very flattering silhouette that nips in at the waist. The fabric is medium weight (not thin) and non stretch, with an invisible back zipper. I want to note that this has a strong shoulder look (meaning the sleeves have a poof at the shoulders), which some petite ladies might find to be too much on a small frame. Thankfully, I found an easy solution – there is a small hidden ruffle underneath each sleeve to give it that strong shoulder effect, so I simply trimmed out that small ruffle with small scissors (careful not to damage the actual sleeve!) similar to how I have removed shoulder pads from blazers and tops. See the photo below on the small ruffle I snipped out to make the shoulders more drapey versus puffy.
Fit wise, an xxs regular fit me very well, and you can tie the sash belt to cinch it in even more. I noticed none of the reviews mentioned this top runs short, but note I’m about 5 feet tall and the regular sizing hits me at a perfect length. As such, it may fit on the shorter side for someone taller, but keep in mind length increases with the garment size. I also tried this on in the cream, rose and truffle (see below) which were each very pretty, but black is most versatile for me on my streak with darker hues.
Measurements of xxs regular: 14.75″” across the armpit, 13.25″ across the waist, 20.75″ total length.
FAUX LEATHER LEGGINGS
I’ve shared these a couple times before on IG stories as an alternative for my favorite high rise faux leather leggings (which are sadly sold out). These from Express have hundreds of positive reviews and what I do like is the matte leather-like finish (does not look cheap), the not too thin / not too clingy fabric weight (unlike a very popular leather legging brand), and the petite friendly length option. What I personally don’t like is the low rise. I am very much so a high waisted gal (especially after giving birth), but wanted to share these with the rise disclaimer.
Measurements of xxs petite: 7.25″ rise, 27″ inseam.
I also wanted to quickly show how this top looks more casually with a pair of denim. Skinny jeans used to be my default, but I’ve loved experimenting more with straight or mom jeans over the past year! Which look do you like better?
Thank you Express for partnering on this post.
