Ellen's Reviews
All reviews by Ellen
TOP CONTRIBUTORTOP CONTRIBUTOR
44 reviews
Nice cardigan
Thin material, I wore it by itself to work!
Member Fit Notes
Fine Merino Jacquard Cardigan
GANNI
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Nicely structured cardigan for work
Was a little big on me, so didn't look as polished as I'd like but still a nice cardigan! Shoulder pads are small and reasonable.
Member Fit Notes
Feninza Cardigan
BOSS
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Oversized fit, hot pink color
Slouchy, oversized fit. I had to fold the sleeves to fit me. The color is more of a hot pink than red as pictured. I did like the color a lot!
Member Fit Notes
Red Ribbed Sweater
Marissa Webb x RTR
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
On trend pant
My family burst out laughing when they saw me in these pants, but I got lots of compliments on them when I wore them to a work event. They are on-trend and comfortable for all day wear. I wanted to try the trend - not something I'd buy, but fun to try.
Member Fit Notes
Split Hem Faux Leather Pants
Marissa Webb x RTR
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Beautiful sweater, big for petites
I thought this sweater was beautiful in so many details, but it didn't fit as I hoped. It ran long and loose, which made it more casual than I wanted for a work event.
Member Fit Notes
Astor Cardigan
L'agence
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Cropped sweater
This sweater is cropped and a good for for petites. It is not really open stitch (or perhaps it was shrunk in a previous wash). Comfortable yet polished, loved the color for fall.
Member Fit Notes
Open Stitch Sweater
Polo Ralph Lauren
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Chunky sweater with spiderweb pattern
This sweater is a thick, chunky knit with a lot more weight than I expected. It looked high quality and I wore it around Halloween because the pattern in the knit resembles a spiderweb.
Member Fit Notes
Button Cable Knit Sweater
Maje
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Beautiful, Classic, Petite Friendly Sweater
Soft sweater with a flattering fit that worked on my petite frame (fitted but not tight) but has plenty of stretch. I liked the gold button details on the shoulders and the bell sleeves were fun and not oversized...but the sleeves run long and I was constantly rescuing them from food and other hazards.
Member Fit Notes
Grey Kimberly Sweater
Tory Burch
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Nice Quality Leggings
These are standard black leggings with a subtle print on the front. I was expecting the snakeskin to be textured for a dressier look similar to a leather legging. Although they were not what I expected, they were nice quality leggings with thick material and a comfortable waist band. Like most leggings, these will run a little long and loose for petite ladies.
Member Fit Notes
Snakeskin Print Leggings
Slate & Willow
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Bombshell Dress for Petites...with Pockets!!
I loved everything about this dress for a holiday cocktail party. Some fun details: the lace in the back is unlined; there are snaps on the side that secure lace over the zipper. Overall the dress is slim fitting and was a perfect cocktail length for me at 5'2". Highly recommend for petites who typically fit an XXS or 00.
Member Fit Notes
Crimson Floral Dress
ML Monique Lhuillier
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Silky and Comfortable Top for Petites
I paired this top with a chunky wool skirt, black tights and boots for a casual holiday event. The silky material helped make the top a slimmer fit but it was overall a looser and more casual look on my petite frame.
Member Fit Notes
Floral Turtleneck Top
Aldomartins
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Beautiful Dress Not For Petites
I love this dress...on someone else! At 5'2", the XS Regular was a maxi length hitting my ankles. Unfortunately, the torso was also overall too long and loose, with the V neck gaping open near my navel. The sleeves were too wide and long for me and looked sloppy. Overall, the dress is cut on the slimmer side but if you are an XXS Petite, it may not work for you. I was sad not to be able to wear this beauty!
Member Fit Notes
Carroll Velvet Dress
YUMI KIM
Size Worn: XSR
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Cute Petite Friendly Sweater
I got a lot of mileage out of this medium weight sweater. It's a solid basic piece elevated by the fun print (which has more purple in person) and the slightly poufed shoulders. I found it to be petite friendly, hitting me at the hip bone and with sleeves just the right length to be cozy. For reference, I am 5'2".
Member Fit Notes
Cheetah Print Pullover
Rebecca Taylor NYC
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
BIG DISAPPOINTMENT - Loved this Dress, Not for Petites
This was one of my biggest disappointments from RTR as I *loved* this dress based on the model photos and waited for it to come available so I could rent it. In person, it's just as gorgeous--the perfect fall sweater dress. It's a thicker material but with enough stretch to be comfortable and flattering--and not at all itchy like some sweater dresses can be. Unfortunately, it runs very large. I was swimming in the XS at 9 months pregnant (for reference, I'm 5'2" and around 100lbs). I had to fold the sleeves over twice, the shoulders were way to wide, and overall the dress hung on me like a very pretty potato sack (again, with a 9 month pregnant belly to cover! I couldn't believe it!).
Member Fit Notes
Nordique Sweater Dress
Fuzzi
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Petite-Friendly Maternity Pencil Skirt
I have had this skirt on rotation for my entire third trimester and it's been a "workhorse" for my maternity work wardrobe. One of the few maternity pieces that made me feel put together for work events and meetings. The length was work appropriate on me at 5'2" and hit just below the knees. For taller ladies, note that it will probably hit well above the knee, similar to the model.
Member Fit Notes
Black Maternity Pencil Skirt
Slate & Willow
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Petite Mamas-To-Be, Rent these Pants NOW!
The first time I put these pants on, I told my husband "I don't even feel pregnant!" These are by far the most comfortable, flattering work appropriate maternity pants I have tried. They stay comfortable all day with no slipping and are a super cute pindot pattern that pairs well with everything from white or grey to fall burgundies and plums. Sorry everyone that I have been hogging my size for my entire third trimester :)
Member Fit Notes
Pindot Maternity Pants
Slate & Willow
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
PETITE REVIEW: Boxy and Heavy on a Petite Frame
I was really excited for this sweater as we kick-off official sweater weather here. It excels in warmth (I wore it with a white long-sleeved tee underneath and probably could have done without that extra layer) but the shape was not petite friendly as the body of the sweater runs wide, as do the sleeves. I felt like I was in a solid knit cocoon as the sleeves bunched up and rubbed against the body of the sweater.
Member Fit Notes
Ivory Ecru Sweater
RED Valentino
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Heavy & Shapeless for Petites
Love the sparkle and the sleeve details on this dress but the heavy knit and wide cut of the dress were not flattering on me as a petite. It also hit me below the knees at 5'2". Note that the knit has a lot of stretch and I could feel throughout the day the weight of the dress dragging it down and pulling it out of shape. I think this would be a great choice for a lady who could hold the dress up with more curves than I have!!
Member Fit Notes
Pleated Metallic Dress
Carven
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Cute and On-Trend with a Flattering Fit
Not only is this very on-trend with the lace and high neck but this was the elusive top that flows without being boxy or overwhelming on a petite frame. It was loose on me but still had a nice tapered shape. Absolutely love this top and highly recommend for other petite ladies. Note that it comes with a matching camisole under layer but that is a separate piece, so you could change the under layer to add more warmth or different color/texture.
Member Fit Notes
High Neck Lace Top
Saylor
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Adorable Top that Transitions from Work to Dinner
I rented this Georgia top for a work trip to Atlanta and it was the perfect fit with a fun pattern and peplum cut that looked great under a jacket indoors but also transitioned perfectly to evening activities in the Atlanta heat.
Member Fit Notes
Georgia Floral Rosie Ruffle Top
Draper James
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Classic and Fun for a Work Event
Absolutely loved this dress--I traveled for work events and this went in and out of a suitcase with no issues at all. It was effortless but stylish for long days of meetings. The flirty ruffled collar is just the right size to be fun without overwhelming. It was the right length for me at 5'2" but I can imagine it would be a little short for the office on someone taller. It hit me mid-thigh.
Member Fit Notes
Black Floral Wrap Dress
cupcakes and cashmere
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Not Petite Friendly / Awkward Bows
This top is a thick embroidered cotton and runs large, so on a petite frame it became heavy and boxy. The bow ties are also a very thick cotton and ran longer than seemed necessary on the XS, so it was difficult to tie them neatly and they also felt heavy and awkward even when they were tied. Also, the side zipper was extremely difficult to slide because of the thick embroidered fabric. I did not wear this top and overall would not recommend it especially for anyone on the petite side.
Member Fit Notes
Blue Floral Kity Top
Alexis
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Cute and Polished Dress for A Day of Work Travel
I needed a dress that could stand up to a full day of travel for work meetings, including flying in and out the same day. This dress took me from 7am to midnight with minimal wrinkling or wilting and was comfortable enough for flying but still felt fresh and polished during my day of meetings. Awesome! The fit was okay but not great--everything on the size 0 was big for a petite frame. The waist and shoulders felt oversized and blouse-y. I put a thin gold belt around the waist to keep everything in place and that helped. Overall a good pick for petites, just be prepared for extra room in the top if you have a smaller frame.
Member Fit Notes
On A Roll Dress
Shoshanna
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Adorable & Effortless Dress for Petites
I was looking for a fun but not fussy dress for a beachy casual spring wedding and thought the color, texture and length were just right for that kind of event. At 5'2", the dress hit me mid-thigh--short, but nothing scandalous. I was able to sit comfortably without exposing anything that should not be exposed :) The peek-a-boo lace details made it flirty and fun but the crew neck sleeveless style was effortless. I had no concerns about straps slipping or having to adjust the dress throughout the night. Overall, the dress does run small, so I would recommend the 0 for someone who typically wears a 00 or XXS. Having said that, my initial reaction when I tried on the dress was that I thought it wasn't as flattering for someone more petite as it might be on someone taller. The natural waist has the peek-a-boo lace detail that is cute but not very well defined (it hung almost straight down to my hips) and there is a fun scalloped hem that almost gives the dress a drop-waist profile. I thought these dueling waists made me look stocky and shapeless but my husband was a big fan of the dress (he said it was the best of 20+ dresses I have rented over the past few years), so I think the long legs and the peek-a-boo details might make up for any downside!
Member Fit Notes
Periwinkle Felicia Lace Mini Dress
Karina Grimaldi
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Cute with a little Edge
The leather on this skirt is luxurious. So soft and in person it has a great texture and sheen that really take it a notch above your average leather skirt. It ran a little bigger than I would have liked but with buttoned tabs on either side to cinch it in, this skirt fit me better than most off the rack--not quite at my natural waist, but not mid-hip the way most true-to-size skirts fall on me. Overall, A+ rating for a cute, easy to style date night option. For a midwestern winter night, I paired this with black tights, black booties and a burgundy off the shoulder top.
Member Fit Notes
Jennifer Skirt
Rebecca Minkoff
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Everything You Want in a Holiday Wrap Dress
This one hits the wrap dress trifecta--effortless, comfortable and versatile. I wore it twice, for a holiday luncheon and to work. Unlike some of the DVF wrap dresses that I've tried with heavier fabrics that just felt bulky and had me constantly readjusting throughout the day as fabric bunched up at my sides or waist, the thin metallic knit of this dress is perfect for wrapping and forgetting. Well Done, DVF!!!
Member Fit Notes
Blue Sparkle Wrap Dress
Diane von Furstenberg
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Much love for these petite friendly coated leggings
Before trying the Stevie through RTR Unlimited, I *wanted* a pair of coated vegan leather leggings. I tried on several brands, even making a few online purchases only to return when they were too long and too loose. The Stevies are the perfect fit for someone more petite--the waist was snug but very comfortable after wearing all day and the leggings skimmed my legs without being constricting. At 5'2", there was a little bunching at the knees and a little excess length at the ankles but overall the fit felt and looked great. Like most coated leggings,note that the leather is only on the front side. I could live in these.
Member Fit Notes
Stevie Leggings
Bailey 44
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
<3 <3 <3 This Petite Friendly Dress
This dress is a knockout! The in-person texture and details are amazing. The black has metallic threading sparkling throughout. The sides and neckline have knit textured detailing around the edges of the color contrasts. Just a fantastic, sublte mix of color, shape and texture. The fabric is a heavy knit, smooth (unlined) on the interior and heavily textured on the exterior. It has great stretch and fit my petite frame perfectly (YAYYYYYYYY) but had enough stretch that I would still say it fits true to size and would accommodate a range of body types very well. The length was also that perfect middle ground for a petite gal (YAYYYYYYY) hitting just at my knees for a very nice office appropriate length rather than at mid-calf as many sheath dresses do for me.
Member Fit Notes
Contrast Intarsia Dress
Raoul
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Pretty Blue Professional Dress
I rented this dress for the color, a pretty, shimmery robin's egg blue. The fabric is quilted and has a sheen that in certain lights reflects shades of iridescent pink. The color is the star with this dress. Like most RTR dresses, the fit is not perfect for petites, hanging a little loose and long all around. A belt helped to define the waist. Note that at 5'2", the dress hits just below my knees. Also note the dress is unlined but due to the texture and weight of the fabric, I had no issues with sheerness. It does not offer much warmth, so I paired the dress with black tights, boots and a black blazer.
Member Fit Notes
Blue Ripple Marks Sheath
Vera Wang
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
The Perfect Vegan Leather Skirt
Love the color, cut, length and feel of this skirt! Note that the waist runs small so I would suggest sizing up if you typically fit a Size 0 waist. The length on me at 5'2" was just above the knees. Appropriate for fun and office.
Member Fit Notes
Cognac Vegan Leather Skirt
Rebecca Taylor NYC
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Cute But Short Autumn Work Dress
I thought this dress might be a bit on the casual side for work, but in person the fabric, pattern and cut make it look very polished. I got SO many compliments on this dress but ultimately felt it was just too short for work wear (several inches above my knees) so I don't think I'll be repeating this one. I would definitely recommend for a less conservative office environment or for more social professional events!
Member Fit Notes
Navy Printed Rio Dress
Shoshanna
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Simple sheath with all the right details
Loved everything about this dress! Perfect simple navy sheath for professional events but the asymmetrical neckline and the well cut dress and quality fabric make it a knock-out! As always, petites should add a few inches to the length from the model photo. This dress hit me about 3 inches below my knees at 5'2".
Member Fit Notes
Navy Bowery Sheath
LIKELY
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Stylish Sheath with Great Texture
Really loved the texture of this dress. The black and white pattern has so much dimension because of the texture and layers--not your average black and white dress! The fabric is thick and heavy and while the dress fit fine in the hips, the heavy fabric sagged around my waist and chest. This dress would be a knockout if it fit perfectly but I am giving is 3 out of 5 because the cut and heavy fabric are not very forgiving if the fit isn't perfect. Overall, I would say this dress in an XXS ran large. As always, petites should mentally add a few inches to the length based on the model's photo. This dress was tea length on me at 5'2".
Member Fit Notes
Verdant Dress
TY-LR
Size Worn: XXS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Dress up, Dress Down, The Perfect Red Sweater
I have been living in this sweater--tucked into a pencil skirt under a black blazer for work, with slim cut jeans and ballet flats, with leggings and boots. It gives every outfit a pop of color and fun texture. Comfortable and classic piece for fall that I don't want to send back!!
Member Fit Notes
Ruby Red Bennie Ruffle Sweater
Diane von Furstenberg
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Flirty, Feminine Top with Great Movement
This top looks great alone or under a cardigan or blazer. The fabric has a subtle pattern that really gives it texture in person and the peplum has great, soft movement. Note that the color is a deep navy--based on the photo I was expecting a dark royal blue.
Member Fit Notes
Navy Jenner Braided Trim Top
Greylin
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Can I Give This Six Stars??
The PERFECT little red dress. Sexy but elegant, comfortable for dancing, and a vibrant apple red that's not too orange or fire-engine bright. I didn't want to send this one back!! Note the fabric is very stretchy, so you may want to size up or down from your norm depending on how tight you want the dress to be :) One note of caution, the dress zips on the side and at one point when I was dancing at the wedding, the zipper slid down almost all the way!!
Member Fit Notes
Red Butterfly Ruched Dress
Nicole Miller
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Simple Dress with Great Cut, Color, Fabric.
This is a simple dress that does everything right...beautiful deep red color, sweet pleated skirt and tailored waist, and the material is thick with just the right amount of stretch. I did think the top ran a little big on a petite frame, but it worked as it created a nice fold at the waistline.
Member Fit Notes
Sugar Beet Caley Dress
Rebecca Taylor NYC
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Great colors and shape
Absolutely loved this dress! Cute cap sleeves, tailored waist, tapered skirt with just the right amount of slit in the back. Always looking for dresses that I can put on and instantly feel polished and professional. This one is perfect. The lighter color at the neckline is a pale gray/blue, so pretty and unique.
Member Fit Notes
Clementine Day Dress
Raoul
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Iconic Dress in a Cute Print
I've always wanted to try a classic DVF wrap dress, so I was excited to see several cute prints in the Unlimited inventory. I love the pattern on this dress--it's a fun and bright pink with more gold/mustard tones in person than in the photos. The material is thicker than I expected and definitely gives the dress more structure and a higher quality look than other wrap dresses I have worn. Petites beware, the neckline was gaping on me and hit indecently low! I wore a white bralette underneath for coverage but I think a safety pin would also have worked to close it. All in all, I really enjoyed trying the style out through Unlimited but wouldn't invest in purchasing a DVF wrap dress after wearing it for the day. I want a wrap dress to feel light and effortlessly stylish and the DVF just felt like too much heavy, overlapping fabric for a petite frame.
Member Fit Notes
Pink Print Julian Two Wrap Dress
Diane von Furstenberg
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"
Perfect Fall Work Dress
LOVE this dress. The patterns, colors and textures are perfect for fall. The texture of the knit is really intricate and subtle and the brown "leather" accents are a gorgeous golden brown. At 5'2", the dress hit just above my knees and felt very appropriate for work. For someone taller it may be a bit short for conservative work places!
Member Fit Notes
Calvino Brown Sheath
Theory
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 2"