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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.

BERKSHIRE WOOL LADY JACKET size 10 petite / RIBBED POINTELLE PULLOVER size M petite / STRAIGHT LEG STRETCH CORDUROY PANTS size 6

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.

FULL ZIP CARDIGAN size M / NON IRON PERFECT SHIRT size 10 / SLIM ANKLE JEAN size 8 petite

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.

TEXTURED CARDIGAN size petite M / DENIM MODERN CLASSIC SHIRT size petite M / STRAIGHT LEG CORDUROY PANTS size 8 petite

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.

CASHMERE CREWNECK size S / WIDE LEG PONTE PANT size 8 petite

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.

CHATHAM SLIM ANKLE PANTS size 8 petite / FULL ZIP TIPPED CARDIGAN size M petite / PIMA V-NECK TEE size petite M

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?

FULL ZIP CARDIGAN size S / LONG SLEEVE CREW NECK TEE size M petite / PATCH POCKET CLASSIC TROUSER JEANS size 8 petite

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.

FULL ZIP CARDIGAN size S / DENIM A-LINE SKIRT size 6 / CASHMERE CREWNECK size S

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.

QUILTED BARN VEST size M petite / NON IRON PERFECT SHIRT size 10 / SLIM ANKLE JEAN size 8 petite

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?

MOCKNECK SWEATER VEST size S / NON IRON PERFECT SHIRT size 10 / CHATHAM SLIM ANKLE PANTS size 8 petite

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.

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75 Comments

  1. Marilyn Booth says:

    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”.

  2. Good morning everything did look good

  3. Stephanie says:

    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.

  4. 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.

    1. I didn’t see any leopard I would consider wearing.

  5. 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.

  6. BRENDA ANDERSON says:

    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!

  7. 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.

  8. 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.

    1. I love the ones by COS. Talbots makes a nice one too.

  9. 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!

    1. Hilarious!! I’m a tall petite 🤣

  10. 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.

    1. So glad you liked it!

      1. The comments were overwhelming for the cheetah pants and red vest. The untucked blouse really is very flattering!

  11. Annie Bosse’ says:

    You are delightful, & make me laugh! Your site is wonderful!

    1. Thank you! I’m glad you’re here.

  12. 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.