Happy Friday!! For this week’s Fit Review Friday, I have some petite outerwear from White House | Black Market. As per usual, you can find my measurements for comparison here.
Note: White House | Black Market offers free shipping and returns on their petite items.
On to the review…
White House | Black Market Petite Herringbone Coat // Size xxsp
*Just went on sale!
This coat caught my eye because it looked very “Isabel Marant” to me from the product photos and I’m always interested in good herringbone pieces. It’s a cocoon coat, which is a shape I haven’t really tried on my frame before, so I was apprehensive when I first pulled it out of the packaging. A cocoon or “boyfriend” coat is meant to fit oversized, but tailored in a way so it drapes down, but tapers in at the bottom, so it still has shape and looks intentional. Thanks to petite proportions, I think it achieves what it sets out to do, even on my super short frame. The wide torso and dolman sleeves are offset by a drape that somehow still nips a tad at the waist, and pockets/button that are placed in a proper-for-petites location. The “boyfriend” size lapel has been scaled down so it’s not overwhelming on a short figure, and the lack of a distinct shoulder makes the oversized silhouette easier to pull off.
The fabric isn’t remarkably thick, which probably helps with the drape on a petite figure, so don’t expect a whole lot of warmth from this. It’s more like a cozy top coat to throw on over your fall layers. The side zip-pockets are decorated in faux-leather and appropriately large to stuff your hands. The front button is also covered in the same faux-leather fabric. The fabric is a nubby, tweedy black and white herringbone, which adds some great texture to an outfit.
I honestly didn’t think I would like this or be able to pull it off, but the more I look at it in the mirror, the more I like it. I imagine it will look very nice paired with leather skinnies, or wrapped and belted for a slimmer silhouette. It is a departure from my usual silhouette of tailored, close fitting coats and blazers, and I’m warming to the idea of this cocoon shape. If you’re into that effortless, oversized chic look, but find it difficult to pull off, this coat may be worth a try. Thanks to petite proportions, I found this coat surprisingly flattering despite it’s oversized silhouette.
The approximate measurements of size xxsp are as follows (laid flat & buttoned):
Shoulder: no shoulder seam
Bust: 19.5″
Waist: 18.5″
Sleeve: 23.5″ from collar seam
Bicep: 6.5″
Length: 31″
White House | Black Market Petite Long Vest // Size 00p
The whole reason I was perusing White House | Black Market in the first place was for this little number. A reader (thanks Rachel!) brought this cute long vest to my attention, and how it felt like a much more expensive wool flannel despite it’s polyester/viscose blend. Sure enough, this vest feels wonderful to the touch. It’s so soft and cozy!
Unfortunately, I’m not particularly wowed by how it fits on me. Meant to have a tailored fit, I found the bust to be too roomy and the stand collar proportioned a bit too wide, so it swallows up my neck and chest. If I were to keep, I’d want to slim and shorten it, and I’m just not in love enough with it to drop any money on alterations. Back this one goes.
The approximate measurements of size 00p are as follows (laid flat & buttoned):
Shoulder: 12″
Bust: 16.5″
Waist: 15.5″
Length: 33.5″
Hi Kelly,
I’m flattered that you ordered the vest on my recommendation! Yes I see what you mean about the fit. Glad you found another piece at White House Black Market. I like the cocoon coat on you, and the roomy fit will allow you to wear all your blazers with it. Congrats for stepping out of your comfort zone and trying a new silhouette. You inspire me to do the same.
Rachel
Hi Rachel! Thanks again for the recommendation! =)
The oversized style of the coat does add an effortless vibe to the overall look and it is not easy to find one that suits a petite frame so this is a great purchase in my opinion! Thanks for sharing!
Prudence
http://www.prudencepetitestyle.com
Thanks Prudence!