Favorite Petite Friendly Finds From Talbots 2025 Fall Collection That You Will Love
We all know that Talbots carries sizes for most everybody with regular, plus, petite, and petite plus. This week I zeroed in on the petite section to see what fabulous finds are in proportion for the shorter ladies among us… including me. It’s funny, but I never used to think of myself as short…and I suppose it is relative, but the petite section has had the best fits for me for the last several months.
If you’re new here, welcome. A try-on is when I visit a store to style some of their newest pieces, so I can provide you with fit, color, and styling notes. I’m 5’4″ with broad shoulders and straight hips. See my other try-ons here.
This Berkshire Wool Lady Jacket has a timeless, structured shape with polished buttons and neat patch pockets. It’s a petite-friendly length, even in regular, with a tidy vibe that instantly sharpens up whatever you’re wearing. I can also see it worn over a sweater dress or jeans. I’m in Ivory, and it also comes in coral or brown.
I’m wearing it over this Ribbed Pointelle Pullover that you saw me wearing here. This is a great little top that adds a layer of softness with its delicate knit texture, which feels interesting without being fussy.
I paired these with the Straight Leg Stretch Corduroy Pants in Blue Slate. Talbots’ corduroy is soft, flexible, and has just the right amount of stretch to add ease when you move, without stretching out. They come in many colors, but I was most excited to try on this pretty blue, which they didn’t have in petite, so I tried on the regular and folded the hem under.
This Full-Zip Cardigan is a great layering piece with a clean, sporty feel. The zip-front gives it structure, and the high collar adds just enough polish to keep it from reading too casual. The knit is soft without being bulky, and the length is petite-friendly with no bunching or awkward proportions. I can see this worn over a tee or turtleneck, or even tossed over your shoulders with a blouse. I’m in the Port Wine, but it also comes in 6 other colors.
Underneath, I’m wearing the Non-Iron Perfect Shirt, and it really does live up to the name. I own this in 2 sizes, to wear as my weight fluctuates up and down. I love how crisp and polished this looks right out of the dryer or suitcase. This is the kind of staple that quietly pulls everything together for me.
I paired them with the Slim Ankle Jeans in a Never-Fade Black. These have a clean, modern cut that hits right at the ankle and a bit of stretch that moves with you. They’re a cross between straight and skinny, which may be the perfect sweet sport for many ladies. These can easily be dressed up with a blazer or worn more casually with sneakers.
This Textured Cardigan has a slightly chunkier knit that adds warmth and interest without feeling bulky. The burgundy shade is rich and saturated…just the kind of color that feels seasonal and cozy as the weather cools down. The open front keeps it relaxed, and the overall shape is clean and simple.
Underneath, I’m wearing the Denim Modern Classic Shirt in a dark rinse. It has that soft, broken-in feel right away. The denim has a vertical striated wash that adds interest without distressing.
I paired them with the Straight Leg Corduroy Pants, also in burgundy. I like this version of a column of color, which is also elongating but helps the legs look longer.
This Cashmere Crewneck in plum is a simple, classic piece in a rich, wearable color. The fit is clean and not too snug, and the cashmere has a soft hand without being overly delicate. It comes in 11 shades to fit every color palette.
I’ve paired it with the Wide Leg Ponte Pants in camel. I love these pants, which you saw me wear in this post. The wide leg adds a bit of ease, and the ponte knit has structure without feeling stiff. I like the contrast between the warm camel and the cool plum—it’s a combination that feels understated but still intentional.
Here’s the Full Zip Tipped Cardigan in black with ivory trim. I like the crisp, graphic vibe that feels a bit sporty and a bit polished. I layered it over the Pima V-Neck Tee in ivory, which ties into the print below.
Animal print is such a huge trend this fall (and always), that I couldn’t resist trying on these Chatham Slim Ankle Pants in the bold cheetah print. They’re slim but not tight, and the stretch makes them comfortable enough for a full day without losing shape. I like how the black cardigan and ivory tee ground the print, letting the pants stand out without making the outfit feel too loud. Are you wearing animal print this fall?
Same Full Zip Cardigan, this time in Moonlight Blue. I layered it over a black Long Sleeve Crew Neck Tee, a great year-round staple that’s lightweight, smooth, and perfect for layering without bulk.
The Patch Pocket Classic Trouser Jeans have a relaxed, slightly wider leg and a clean, dark, undistressed wash with a finished hem. YAY! The patch pockets are a modern detail, and the overall fit is easy without looking too casual.
Same cardigan as the last outfit, this time layered over the Cashmere Crewneck in plum. The rich color adds a nice contrast to the soft blue, and the simple crewneck style keeps the whole look clean and unfussy.
I’m wearing the Denim A‑Line Midi Skirt in Cardiff Wash, which falls mid‑calf (midi length), and has a hint of stretch so it moves easily. It features slash pockets up front and a front slit that lets you walk without constraint. The denim wash is soft, with subtle fading, giving the skirt a casual polish without looking too rugged. This length pairs well with ankle boots or loafers. I find knee boots can be problematic with front slits because they get stuck on the boot top.
This is the same Non-Iron Perfect Shirt paired here with the Slim Ankle Jeans in black. Over the top, I’m wearing the Quilted Barn Vest in navy. It adds texture and structure without feeling bulky, and the snap-flap patch pockets give it a slightly utilitarian feel. This is the kind of look I’d throw on for a casual day when I want to feel pulled together but still comfortable…and the vest is an easy layer for cooler days without committing to a full jacket. Which look do you prefer, tucked or untucked?
I tried this combo for fun…red with cheetah…and honestly, I kind of love it. The red mockneck vest adds just enough contrast to balance the pattern without competing with it, and the white shirt underneath keeps everything grounded. It’s definitely a little unexpected, but in a fun way. The whole look feels playful but still pulled together, and sometimes that’s exactly what an outfit should be.
I debated buying these cheetah pants, then told myself I wouldn’t get enough wear out of them since I seldom wear prints. Then I second and third-guessed myself. Don’t you love it when you argue both sides of a discussion in the dressing room? They really are a classic shape and pattern, so maybe….
This was one of those try-ons that reminded me how much fun style can be when you mix things up a little. Whether it’s a classic cardigan in a new color or an unexpected combo like red and cheetah, sometimes the best outfits are the ones you didn’t plan for.
Let me know which pieces stood out to you….I always love hearing what you’d wear and how you’d style it.
Thanks for reading and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.
Love, love, love your musings!! I shop Talbots and fit a petite large. I like how you pair things up and it gives me lots of ideas. I am short waisted so tucking things in is a problem. Good to see how blouses look tucked or untucked.
Thanks for your “Well styled Life”.
Good morning everything did look good
Good morning Jenny
I bought the red mock neck sweater vest but wear it as a sleeveless top, never considered putting a shirt under it. I know it is listed as a vest, but seems fine as it.
So many great combinations! Surprised you didn’t feature any leopard, since Talbots has TONS of it in the current collection. If the warm leopard tone doesnt suit your coloring, possibly the olive leopard that they’ve added would be an option. It took me a minute, but then I realized it went better with my gray hair and green eyes.
I didn’t see any leopard I would consider wearing.
The red sweater vest with the cheetah pants is such fun and looked great on you!
I do have a brown and black animal print blouse that looks great with a jacket that i have. Am having fun picking out a classy but not too dressy outfit for a granddaughter’s wedding in the San Francisco area in 3 weeks. The personal shopper at Nordstrom is wonderful here in the Northwest.
All the outfits are great! Wish I could get them all. I couldn’t pick a favorite so it’s probably okay that I can’t afford to buy any of them. Definitely buy the pants!!! They look awesome and would be fun to wear. Of all the fall try-ons you’ve done this fall, this is my favorite!
I’d buy the pants if I were you! You look cute in them. My grandmother, who was stylish in a classic 1940s-50s way, loved leopard and cheetah. I’ve never worn any animal prints much, but I’m liking them this season. Not for pants- I’m plus size and wouldn’t be comfortable myself- but on eBay I found a Madewell tote in cheetah print calf hair and some Ugg leopard loafers, and I’ve picked up a couple of scarves. I wore snakeskin flipflops this summer, and I have snakeskin shoes and bags that will be coming out. I’d love some boots and maybe a leopard sweater.
Nice to see a Talbots try-on. Their things are good quality, and they’re size-inclusive! I think the denim skirt outfit is especially nice on you, but everything looks good.
Do you have a long or 3/4 black crew neck tee that you love and would recommend? I need to replace all of mine because they’ve lost their shape.
I love the ones by COS. Talbots makes a nice one too.
Hi Jennifer,
Been following for a few months. I was introduced to you in a joint blog with Kay Harms and Tania Stephens. I so enjoy you and your style! I’m 73, retired and mostly stay home and garden. Whether I get out or stay home I do enjoy putting effort into how I look and I thank you for your inspiration and all you do!
I giggled with delight when you mentioned you didn’t think you were petite. I’m 5’2″ and never thought as myself as petite either because when I would walk with my Mom, I could see the top of her head. I recall mentioning this to my brother and we had a good laugh!
Hilarious!! I’m a tall petite 🤣
I really think the red vest with cheetah pants is great looking combo and so flattering. The way you’ve styled it with the blouse is perfect! I’m identifying with this, thank you.
So glad you liked it!
The comments were overwhelming for the cheetah pants and red vest. The untucked blouse really is very flattering!
You are delightful, & make me laugh! Your site is wonderful!
Thank you! I’m glad you’re here.
I bought the red vest yesterday, but my Talbots was very poorly stocked. They had no cashmere sweaters in the store in either petite or regular, and the next nearest store has none either. I like that full zip sweater jacket, but I don’t recall seeing it in the store either. I was very disappointed in my visit yesterday as Most of my clothes come from Talbots. I love seeing you in more color. The color lights up your face in a good way.
buy them they looked good on you!
I love the cheetah print pants on you. You should get them. I also love the burgundy outfit with the denim shirt.
I was a definite “no” on the cheetah print pants until you styled it with the red, then I loved the look. We are our worst critics in the dressing room.
It’s so hard not to second and third guess myself.
Buy the pants
They are adorable fun and I think classy with the red
So many great looks here on you
Always love your posts!
Yes, I am wearing a wee bit of animal print this fall! I have a beautiful animal print cardigan that I bought in Paris 10 years ago and it still looks timely and chic! As for animal print pants, that’s a definite NO for me. I feel that it draws too much attention my “baby X 3” hips. I like to keep my bottom half looking classically styled in neutrals. Some would argue that animal prints are a neutral but it just doesn’t jibe with my styling practice.
Keep up the awesome blog work!
Those cheetah pants are the first I’ve seen in cool colors! I liked them with the red sweater vest and white shirt. I love the burgundy and denim outfit. I wear all of my tops and shirts untucked. You can get away with either. It was only 59 degrees and sunny this morning for our dog walk.
I LOVE the cheetah pant with the red on you. Hope you seriously consider.
I’m pretty sure I need that red sweater. You’re wearing a small over the shirt. Did you feel you have enough room? You suggested a medium in AT cardigan if I wanted to button as shirt and it was perfect! The red sweater looks like a good fit, but wanted to double check before ordering.
Btw,,,,yesterday’s post gave me a good laugh…
Thanks, Jennifer!
Thanks Linda! Yes the small seemed plenty roomy for me. Maybe they want it oversized but I liked this fit.
The cheetah outfit is adorable on you!
Guess what? Your ideas for petites work just as well for tall girls. I guess everybody likes to look slim and “put together!” Regarding the zip front cardigans – did you notice if the metal zippers operate smoothly? Last year I had to return two sweaters with rough, scratchy zippers that wanted to catch on everything. I love that red shade!
They zipped up and down smoothly for me.
I love animal prints and have been wearing them since the 90s! Usually a single piece paired with a dark solid (brown, black or dark denim). I have warm coloring so it’s almost always a leopard print. But I also love red with animal print and need to try more of that…..also in small doses. Of your Talbots looks today I most love the red vest/white shirt/cheetah pants and also the plum sweater, which I looked at yesterday……such a lovely color and we have to buy “unusual” but flattering/favorite colors when we see them.
I love that last look with the cheetah pants, but when I broke it down. I realized it’s the top half I love. I think the vest and blouse would look equally good with slim dark denim or black slacks. I don’t know about you, but I would likely wear the cheetah pants once and then they would linger in my closet for the rest of the season. For me, they are too specific for frequent wear
That’s what I was worried about
I can’t resist leopard print. I own four different styles of shoes, a belt, and, yes, two pairs of pants. The cheetah print is very cute–yep–I have those, too. I enjoy seeing you try on various colors. We all have a favorite that tends to fill our closets, but sometimes a different pop of color is “a little happy” that we can give ourselves. You need the cheetah print pants and the red sweater.
Loving the wines and plums with navy. They are so pretty.
Cheetah pants humm? I would probably buy them because I think they are fun and cute, however would look at them in my closet and never wear them.
The cheetah pants look wonderful on you. They make you smile, so buy them. Would look great with green too!
I like the zip cardigan and the quilted vest.
Jennifer – you look lovely in everything in this post! BUY THE PRINT PANTS!!!! They will go with everything….every solid color top in your wardrobe! How fun are they? And that plum color! What a pretty color on you! May I ask why you don’t wear prints? I’d never really noticed that before.
I’ve never been a fan of prints. I’ve tried a few over the years but they felt too busy on me. I prefer a more minimalistic look.
They could be toned down with a longer black sweater and black booties. But, you need to be comfortable wearing a print bottom.
I had to chuckle over the cheetah pants debate…the struggle is real! Found myself texting my best friend this weekend before hitting the add to cart button on a pair.
Like several of the other ladies,
I love the cheetah pants with the red vest or any of the other sweater jackets you have shown. I am thinking of getting the cheetah pants myself. There is so much you can do with them!
Wow – at the end you saved the best for last! I love the red, white and the cheetah on you – very fun. You might not think you would wear it now but I can see it for the sideline at sports games or holiday fun. Why not try it, you might be surprised.
I like the pants. They aren’t too much of a print. It might be fun 😊 everything looked great on you. I am really into lady jackets and the zipped cardigan. I love the plum sweater. I wouldn’t be able to decide on these great options.
Great look at Talbots! The cheetah pants…I have the same dilemma as you. I don’t wear print pants, but those are tempting. 😃
I’m still tempted 🙂
Buy the pants. You only go around once and if you wait they will be all gone.
So true. Thing do go fast especially if I really like them.
Love the red, white and cheetah and the plum and camel looks…both have a chic flair! And I prefer the shirt untucked with the blue vest.
Me too!
I agree with the shirt untucked.
You look fabulous in that burgundy and denim!
Thanks Cindy!
Love the red mock neck vest. I buy 99% of my clothes at Talbots, so will check that out.
I actually love the red/cheetah combination. Also the burgundy column with denim underneath. I need to look for a new denim shirt. My problem is, I run so hot that I cannot fathom long sleeves under long sleeves. So I will be on the search for a sleeveless denim shirt. When you do get your hair cut, would you mind posting your inspiration pics as well as pics of your cut? I too have the Cleopatra hair look and it isn’t doing a thing for me. I’m thinking shorter layers, and growing out my bangs. Not too short, am growing out a pixie and don’t want to go back there. But ideas are good!
I’ll share some pictures. I sure hope he can copy it and that my hair will cooperate now. The natural color is such a different texture.
It sure is. I like my grey, but it takes a lot more management. Thank you!
I already commented on this post..but just thought of something else I wanted to say. I really like Talbot’s clothing but have been so frustrated with their sizing in pants/jeans. I looked in my closet and I have Talbot’s pants/jeans in FOUR different sizes, and they all fit me well. Since I live an hour from a store, I usually order on-line, and when I do I end up ordering 4 different sizes in the same pant because I don’t know which one will fit best. Frustrating! Does anyone else find this to be true with Talbot’s sizing?
I have struggled with sizing too. It depends on the cut
The cheetah print looks GREAT on you!!! Buy the pants!! Especially with both of those sweaters. They are loud or obnoxious. Step out of your comfort zone. I’m heading to Talbots to try them on!!!
What can I say about the cheetah pants…humm. I probably would buy them because I think that they are cute and fun but never wear them!
That may be my problem so I’m still on the fence
I loved all of the styles you showed. I do wear leopard and cheetah prints, primarily as a top or accessory but do enjoy my pants. The print is small enough not to overpower me. I love pairing it with bright colors.
Good Morning Jennifer: I have one animal print sweater from J.Crew that I bought last year, and I’d like to find a scarf. And that will be the extent of my animal print adventures. I like how you paired those burgundy corduroys with the denim.
just popping in to say I enjoy your “on my radar” section. Today’s booties are super cute. Wish they had them in a 7.5 Thank you!
I liked them too
I loved the black and white cheetah combo! I’m not a print person(at least not pants) but the balance, as you said, worked for me too. I’m a warm color person so I wouldn’t buy the outfit but it looked great on you.
The cheetah print pants look great on you and I love how you styled them👌I really like the red knit vest. I just gambled and bought a pair of bootcut leopard print pants, my intention is to wear them with black ankle boots and solid color sweaters over the Winter. Last year I dabbled in the animal print with a pair of ankle boots, I wear them with jeans. Animal print doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. The white shirt looks good both tucked and untucked on you, but I would definitely wear it untucked.
Talbots is my store. I get most of my clothing from Talbots. I love their jackets and the perfect shirts. My favorite pant style is the chatham style. I like the side zip pants. The Talbot outlets have a very nice selection of clothing.
I love side zips too
I have always been drawn to animal prints. The cheetah print pants are fantastic and look classic with the white shirt and red vest you paired with them.
I like the pants!
The plum sweater looks so nice. I’m going to find that color for my wardrobe. I know I’m in the minority, but I don’t like animal prints.