Some Picks From Ann Taylor Loft in XXS Petite

Fellow tiny petite, Susie, asked for some advice navigating the clothing options at Ann Taylor LOFT, specifically dresses, pants and jeans. The LOFT near me has horrible XXS and 00 petite offerings, so I checked out the on-line inventory for this one.

While I haven’t had the opportunity to personally try on all of these items, I listed the details that gave me clues as to whether or not the item would work for a tiny petite. I know not everything I picked is available on-line in XXS or 00 petite, but check your local Ann Taylor LOFT or give customer service a call (1-800-342-5266) to locate something in another store.

Dresses:

I was asked to find a LBD, but didn’t see anything that stood out in the current inventory. As fall merchandise starts to trickle in, the options for a LBD will get better…so for now, I’ll post a good choice for a spring/summer dress:

I like this dress because:

• 93% cotton, 7% spandex fabric content means it will be a bit stretchy, and thus cut smaller…perfect for women with thinner frames.
• V-neckline is generally flattering on small frames, and shorter gals.
• Ribbing at the empire waist nips the garment in at the waist, which helps show off smaller curves, and helps to avoid looking overwhelmed in fabric.
• The ruffle detail is small, so it adds interest without adding bulk or looking overwhelming on a small frame.
• Sleeveless style is easier to alter than a garment with sleeves. If the neckline is too low, just take up the straps. Easy and cheap!

Ann Taylor Loft Petite Sleeveless Dress with Ruffle V-Neck, $19.99 on sale from $39.50.

I like this dress because:

• 94% modal, 6% spandex fabric composition means it will be drapey and stretchy. Stretchy means it will be smaller.
• The self tie at the waist will nip in the dress to show off small curves and avoid looking overwhelmed.
• Pleated front detail is interesting, but subtle.
• Black and white print can be dressed up for work, or punched up with bright accessories for fun.
• Sleeveless style is easy to alter, just like the pink one above.

Petite Print Dress with Pleated Neck, $69.00

Sweaters:

Ann Taylor LOFT petite sweaters run pretty small! They are usually a tiny bit roomy on me right off the rack, but after a wash or two, fit perfectly. This is probably due to seam allowance, or the extra room garment manufacturers leave in clothing to allow for shrinkage during washing.

I like these sweaters because:

• 100% pima cotton will take in a bit after washing for a snugger fit.
• V-neckline is flattering and helps shorter gals avoid looking stumpy.
• Comes in a bunch of colors.
• Great to put over a dress for warmth or modesty, or add color to jeans and a t-shirt.

Petite V-Neck Cardigan, $39.50

Pants:

I’ve actually tried these pants on! I like these because:

• The Marissa fit has the lowest rise, so it fits lower on the waist.
• 98% cotton, 2% spandex fabric content means they have some stretch, so they’re probably cut a bit small. In fact, “stretch” is part of the name of the pant.
• The fit of these was pretty good, they just needed the waist taken in a bit, and if you’re picky like me, the leg and thigh slimmed.

Petite Marisa A-Line Stretch Panama Pants, $39.99 on sale from $59.50.

Denim:

I have never tried the denim at Ann Taylor LOFT, so am hesitant to post anything about them. If you’re going to try them out, I would give the Modern or Marisa Fits a try, since those seem to be the ones cut smaller and with lower rises. Anyone had any luck with Ann Tayor LOFT jeans?