Cinderella Of Boston

A List Petite Celebs

2011-11-21T06:10:00.000-08:00

1. Natalie Portman (5’2″) This petite celebrity wins the Triple Crown of entertainment! She swept through the Golden Globes, the SAG awards and took the Oscar for her roll as Nina, an obsessive ballerina, in Darren Aaronofsky’s latest film “Black Swan”. Portman will have three films released this year, including “No Strings Attached” starring Ashton Kutcher in theaters now, ”Your Highness” and “Thor” coming later this year. Plus, coming this summer a new baby and a maybe wedding!

2. Sandra Bullock (5’4″) This petite actress is one of the highest income earners in the business. For the movie “The Blind Side” she earned $20,000,000. In 2002 she was paid $15,000,000 for “Murder By Numbers.” Her next movie in production ”Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close” is set to be released in 2012, we are sure she will make a hefty sum!

3. Reese Witherspoon (5’0″) Recently this petite celebrity has become more known in the tabloids for her love life and now with her engagement to CAA agent maybe she can get back to the business of making movies! Witherspoon is likely the highest paid actress in the business, she was reportedly paid 15 million for ”Legally Blonde” and its sequel, a whopping 12.5 million for “Sweet Home Alabama,” another 14 million for “Four Christmases,” 15 million for “Just Like Heaven” and 15 million for “Walk the Line,” and 14 million for “How Do You Know,” starring Owen Wilson and Paul Rudd. Wow, now you can do the math, it pays to be petite!

4. Jennifer Aniston (5’4″) The pretty petite Jennifer Aniston had several films released in 2010, the latest is “Just Go With It,” starring Adam Sandler. Aniston recently returned back home from Georgia, after filming ” Wanderlust” to be released (2011). Friends Star Jennifer Aniston, told Rolling Stone magazine in 1999 that ”I’m 110, I’ve been 130, and I’m 5’5″.” There was some silly rumour a while ago that Jennifer went on a special exercise program and gained 2 inches in height… I’d love to know where that rumor originated! She’s also said in an interview she’s ’5ft 4″ and 3/4″.

5. Sarah Jessica Parker (5’2″) The petite fashionista is a clothing designer for Halston! Perhaps she is best known for being Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex in the City,” both in television and on the big screen. She has also starred with Matthew McConaughey in “Failure to Launch” and in “The Family Stone,” with Luke Wilson.

6. Mila Kunis (5’2″) This petite bombshell’s latest breakout role in “Black Swan” as “Lily” has landed her on the cover of W Magazine! Before this her voice was more recognizable than her face, as the voice of Meg Griffin on “The Family Guy.” Mila Kunis has starred in “Max Payne,” “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” and her memorable role as Jackie on “That 70’s Show.” We suspect she is now on the fast track to major Hollywood success and stardom!

7. Ellen Page (5’0″) The Canadian born petite actress and Oscar-nominee for her breakout role in “Juno” playing an eccentric teenager who finds herself pregnant. This rising petite starlet has been in awarding winning roles in the movies “X-Men: The Last Stand” and “Inception,” starring Leonardo Di Caprio!

8. Amanda Seyfried (5’2″) This petite dynamo has proven she can hold her own alongside mega star Meryl Streep in the movie musical “Mama Mia.” Her recent film repertoire includes ”Letters to Juliet,” “Dear John” and “Jennifer’s Body.” Her latest movie is set to release this March “Red Riding Hood,” also starring Gary Oldham, Shiloh Fernandez, Lukas Haas and Virginia Madsen. We can expect to be seeing a whole lot more from this fresh-faced petite!

9.Halle Berry (5’4″) This half African and half Italian American petite celebrity has blazed a new trail for actresses. She was the first and only female African American actress to win an Academy award in 2001 for her role as Leticia Musgrove the love interest of a racist prison guard who had executed her husband while in jail in the movie”Monster’s Ball” starring Billy Bob Thornton. Berry has come a long way from her start in beauty pageants in the 80′s, she simply saw pageants and modeling as a way to become an actress. ” I never wanted to be a model. My modeling career was nothing but a stepping stone to my acting career and that’s all I ever saw it as. A pointless rock in the river that has to be stepped on in order to get to the meaningful oasis of acting.” Berry has starred box many box office thrillers from: “X-Men,” “Die Another Day,” “Perfect Stranger,” and “Gothika,” her break through role was in Spike Lee’s “Jungle Fever.”

10. Salma Hayek (5’2″) Quote: “I act tall!…But look how short I am…I can’t even act to be tall. I’m 5’2′. I can’t even create the illusion that I am tall!

This beautiful petite celebrity shines at any age, now 47, she’s is best known her showing off her best assets in Wild, Wild West,” “Desperado,” Mexico,” and “Fools Rush In.”
Hayek also produced and starred in the movie “Frida” and the movie won two Oscars! She has a new movie release coming later this year, the “Americano,” look out for it! Written by: Ann Lauren

Summer Shorts for Petites

2011-05-16T10:31:00.000-07:00

We all want to show off our legs, especially if they are shapely and well toned. Wearing the right style will go a long way to flattering your Spring and Summer look. Choosing shorts can prove a contest in itself for petite women. It’s important to remember shorts should be fitted, not overly loose, have clean details and a classic style. Wearing an outfit all within the same color wheel will also give you a long, lean silhouette. Topping off your entire look with wedgies or a heel will pay tribute to your legs and create an illusion of lengthening the leg.

Women who are short always wonder about wearing a Capri style pant during the warm months as well. This style can prove tricky but also flattering on the right figure shape. Always wear shoes the same color of your pant. If you’re shorter than 5’2” have heavy calves or thick ankles, this style is not a good choice for you. If you have shapely legs and over 5”2”, make sure you match your shoes with your hemline color to pull off the look with class.

Cuffed shorts ~ this is also a very fashionable style for petite women. Cuffed shorts will make your legs appear longer and are very stylish. Just make sure that the cuffed shorts aren't too tight. They should be loose from your skin so you can move around in them comfortably.

Bermuda shorts ~ are a definite no as they fall below the knee and will make you look stumpier.

mid-thigh

Above Knee to Mid-thigh ~ are the most complimentary lengths for petites because they help to elongate your look beautifully.

Short shorts ~ will make you look even shorter and inappropriate if your butt cheeks are exposed. So, think about the message you are sending as well. However, if you have a flawless figure and in great shape, you’re one of the luckier few to pull them off.

Cargo ~ stay away. Stay far, far away.

Spring Petite Shoe Sale

2011-05-16T07:59:00.000-07:00

$10 Off All Regular Priced Merchandise No Limit To The Savings! You Can Choose Any Number of Your Spring Favorites – For One Week Only All Prices Reduced $10! (this special offer applies only to our regular priced merchandise.) Shop Now!
Promotion Starts Immediately and Ends, Sunday, May 22, 2011. http:www.CinderellaOfBoston.com/?code=bl

Spring Sale

2011-05-01T15:10:00.000-07:00

After a very long winter, a bouquet of spring colors is just what the doctor ordered and we've got a beautiful collection to add to your spring and summer wardrobe. And why not have one in every color when the prices are this low? Beginning TODAY, Sunday, May lst our very best selling open wedge is not only available in 6 colors but also 50% off.

That's Right ! SAVE 50%...was $56... NOW $28.

Petite Hats For Petite Women

2011-04-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

Princess Kate brought "hat styling" back into fashion and has made women around the world think twice about adoring their dos with a cute little topper like the one appearing on the left.

Headwear for women has been both a frivolous ornamental accessory and necessity throughout the ages and milliners have created concoctions from the mildly simple to the grossly ornate.

A fallacy does exist, however, that hats will make a petite woman look shorter and pudgy. That could not be farthest from the truth. Knowing what compliments not only your facial shape but your total look is key towards purchasing the right style just for you. You want to make sure, of course, that the style you chose matches your height and figure proportions. Any brim should definitely not be wider than your shoulders as they can overpower small frames. If you have a full figure or over weight, stay away from very small hats. Don't wear them propped on the back of your head but rather down above your brows as it will force you to look up, elongating your neck, straightening your shoulders and making you appear visually taller. Simple, but true. Noted below are photos of styles for your particular facial shape.

If you have an OVAL face, not to worry. Lucky girl that you are, you can wear anything.

Round Face

Square Face

Round Face ~ Find a hat with a large brim and a high crown. These features in a hat will help elongate your face shape and even out the roundness.

Square Face ~ Choose hats that have curvy lines and are soft and feminine to lessen all of the angles. You also look better with large brim and upturned brim hats.

Long Face ~ You need sharp, clean styles. Wear it straight and forward to cut the length of your face. Also, go for not to wide brims with low crowns -- hats that cover your forehead to look sleek, stylish and mysterious.

Heart & Diamond Face ~ Because your chin is the most narrow point on your face, you need to avoid wide brims that will make it look narrower. Other than that, you're like the oval face shape and can pretty much wear any style you desire.

Long Face

If you'd like to read a fabulous accounting of the history of hats for women and also shop vintage clothing, click on the link below.
http://vintagefashionguild.org/fashion-history/the-history-of-womens-hats/

To figure out what your facial shape is, click on this helpful link.
http://cynthiahelwig.blogspot.com/2010/11/whats-your-facial-shape.html

Check out this great MSN video: Clothes shopping becomes big challenge for petite women

2011-04-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

Check out this great MSN video: Clothes shopping becomes big challenge for petite women

Special

2011-04-11T06:22:00.000-07:00

We've added 8 new styles to our fall/winter line up for you to look at and give us your opinion. your opinion is both invaluable and very much appreciated. styles and trends change but it is you, the customer, who matters and it is our hope to always provide the fashionable styles you want to wear.

Please visit us at http://www.cinderellaofboston.com/?code=bl today to cast your vote.

special this week only:

save on our year 'round slide "Kinsy". regularly priced at $64 now available for $39.90. sales begins Saturday, April 16th & Ends Saturday, April 23rd.

Petite Pet Pics

2011-04-07T10:47:00.000-07:00

Mini Giraffe

Pygmy Goats

Pygmy Marmoset

Indeed sometimes the best things come in the smallest of packages. Who said we were all about fashion and shoes?

These photos will most definitely invoke a really long "Awwww" response. You don't realize how many petite breeds there are in the world and here are a few I thought you would find simply adorable.

Hope you enjoy them.

Pygmy Pigs

Dwarf Netherland Rabbit

Teacup Chihuahua

Miniature Pony

Toy Poodles

Miniature Mule

Mini Yorkshire Terrier

Perfect Wedding Styles for Petites

2011-03-12T11:26:00.000-08:00

Aside from your very first prom gown, the next item to prove the most expensive will be your wedding dress. As little girls we grow up with wondrous visions filling our heads created from fairy tale stories read to us since first we were born. We dream of that Cinderella moment walking down a long aisle amid family and friends where a very handsome Prince Charming awaits to take our hand and share a forever life of love and happiness. Deep sigh here. The reality begins, however, when you start searching for a wedding gown out of thousands that was simply made with your body type in mind. Finding the “one” to fulfill that splendorous dream could prove as laborious as looking for a needle in a haystack.

Difficult as it may seem, the task can truly prove less taxing if you try and keep it real. Fairy tales are imaginary. Being petite is not and knowing what works for you straight out of the gate will make the whole experience of shopping for your dream gown more joyous and memorable. Here are some details that will help alleviate as much frustration and disappointment as possible.

Styling

Strapless Empire

Empire Waist - suits petite women the best as it follows the natural waistline and attractively suits all body types and hides flaws below the bust line. A drop waist line, which is seamed just below the waist line and will create an illusion of height, is more appropriate if you have a large bust line, however.

Basque Waistline

Basque – avert this style all together as it will not compliment your body type and emphasizes a V-shaped waistline, that doesn't go well with the petite women.


Sheath with Sweetheart Neckline

Sheath Silhouette - means the contour of the dress hugs the wearer's figure from the bust to the hips and then flows straight down.) NOT practical if you are a Plus Size Petite.

A-Line

A-Line - is tight at the bodice and flares out toward the bottom of the dress giving the illusion the height.

Princess

Princess - style is a-line but highlights the bodice by using linear seaming and panels that start from the neckline of the dress and continue to the hem, producing a more slimming effect because the linear panels draw an observer's eye lengthwise down the seams of the dress. Great for PLUS SIZE and ladies with larger lower bodies.

Necklines

Off –the- shoulder - looks sophisticated and elegant on all petite women. This neckline sweeps across the chest and rests below the shoulders, highlighting the shoulders and collarbone and will compliment a full-chested woman as well.

Portrait - Similar to an off-the-shoulder style but made with more fabric, the portrait neckline is characterized by a wide, soft scoop from the tip of one shoulder to the tip of the other. If you have fuller arms and prominent collarbones, this is good for you.

Sweetheart – a curved neckline featuring two curves over the bust which drop and meet at a point in the middle resulting in a heart-shape that offers modest coverage while still drawing attention to the figure.

Strapless – only compliments those with well toned arms, a great bust line and collarbones to die for.

Jewel - is rounded at the base of the throat and also known as the t-shirt neckline as it sits at the base of the throat and will compliment women who are small in the bust.

Halter/High Neck - halter features a strap that wraps around the back of the neck. A high neck will have deep armholes and hug the throat. Both look best on women with broad shoulders but only good if you stand 5'7" and above.

Sabrina/Bateau - gently follows the curve of the collarbone, almost to the tip of the shoulders and cuts straight across so less of the decolletage shows. It generally is paired with gloves but this is not recommended and a great style again for women with small breasts only.

Scoop - a u-shaped neckline that is universally flattering on every one. It can be cut low, and quite often the scoop will continue onto the back.

V-Neck - dips down in the front (and sometimes in back) in a v-shape. This style is only good for women with a B or C cup ... not larger ... not smaller.

Final Thoughts

Long sleeves or gloves, large or full bouffant sleeves, heavy fabrics and an over-abundance of fills and layers of fabric should be avoided at all costs. Unless you are in extremely good shape and have a tiny frame, the full bell-shaped skirting of a princess style is not for you. No matter what style you choose, it should NEVER be heavily adorned in the middle part of your torso as it will cut you in half.

There is no magic in what kind of other sleeves you use. It all boils down to how toned your arms are. Giving attention to them 4-6 months before your wedding day with a simple and light weight lifting routine will truly enhance your entire look and give you the feel of confidence and elegance you want.

Standing Up To Intimidation

2011-02-27T11:35:00.000-08:00

Dealing with intimidating personalities, overly assertive individuals and threatening characters is difficult for any one. However, being of a “petite frame” does not mean you have to be dominated, coerced, excluded, humiliated, controlled or, taken advantage of. Frightening? It most definitely can be depending on the situation and the individual you’re standing toe-to-toe with.

Are there ways to contend with a person whose physique is as intimidating as their mindset? Sadly petite women are easy targets. The first step is recognizing whether or not you are in an abusive situation or one of those noted above. In an abusive situation (not just a relationship) power and control are repeatedly misused by an abuser. Visit this link http://www.womenshealth.gov/violence and check out the Power and Control Wheel under Publications. If you feel you fall into one of those categories, this is a wonderful site where phone numbers and assistance can be found.

Listed below are a few suggestions that may help.

- Owning your power is a very good start. Showing that you are a confident person and not easily intimidated without appearing threatening is one way of getting your point across. Fear is an emotion that backs you into a corner. Humor is a great diffuser if given in an assertive tone. “I may be short but, I’m no pushover.”

- In today’s environment, women regardless of their stature should know the basics of self defense. Because you are petite, the likelihood of encountering an aggressive individual more than once in your life time is highly likely. Knowledge brought Goliath to his knees, not brute force. Check your community college, church, local gym, adult education center or YWCA for classes. Gather together a committed list of 30 women and ask your local police department to give demonstrations for free.

- Honest communication is the best policy and gaining respect is sometimes just as simple as demanding it. Shift the dynamic by looking them in the eye, relay in a calm yet, intense manner that their actions are not appreciated and will not be tolerated. In most situations a person is controlling because you allow it.

Eyeglass Frames For Petite Faces

2011-02-15T15:29:00.000-08:00

When small heads fit on top of small bodies eyeglasses can pose a problem like every thing else our petite frames do not fit into. Do your glasses slip off your nose? Do they not tuck properly behind your ears? And most important of all, are the frames flattering, chic and fashionable?

There is nothing wrong with wanting reading or permanent eye glasses that offer all of the above as well as flatter the shape of your petite face. Not to worry. We found some fabulous providers who know what a petite woman wants. But before we give the providers there is some tips to jot down somewhere when shopping for next new frames.

Because our faces are smaller, the width of the lens should fall somewhere between 46mm to 48mm. The majority of us have smaller bridges as well and to attain a comfortable fit it should fall in the range of 13 to 15mm, especially if your PD (pupillary distance) is small. If you want nose pads, go a point or two larger to adjust for fit.

Those brands that have a generous range of petite sizes are Kate Spade, Prada, Anne Klein, Lafont, Nine West, Skechers, Candies and Peachtree.

2011-02-14T05:57:00.001-08:00

Itty-Bitty Living

2011-02-03T12:39:00.000-08:00

We thought you would get a kick out of some "petite" living lifestyles we came upon just recently.

This particular owner had this incredibly compact home when they realized they were sick of "stuff." Now they managed to fit everything needed in just 89 square feet, and sells the itty-bitty houses through their company, Tumbleweed Tiny House Co. Because these structures are on wheels, they are considered travel trailers and don't require a building permit. The homes aren't large enough to meet the minimum standards for houses with a foundation but can be built as sheds on a foundation if the kitchen is left out.

Could you live in a home that's 400 square feet? How about less than 200 square feet?

Greg Johnson does. His house in Iowa City, Iowa, is 140 square feet -- a mere 7 feet by 10 feet. It's just large enough for a little kitchen on one side, across from a desk where Johnson can work and eat. Upstairs is a loft that fits a queen-sized bed and is "just big enough to crawl upstairs and go to sleep.

This tiny prefab dream house is a one-bedroom home in Tucson, Arizona that is full of creative ideas for small space living. The eco-conscious Rocio Romero prefab is only 625 square feet.

In Japan, where undeveloped urban land is scarce, some people are turning plots that once held parking spaces or garden sheds into home sites.

Rather than try to shoehorn conventional residences into these tiny spaces, architects specializing in ultra-compact homes are creating abodes that are as visually striking as they are efficient. Check these out all of which are less than 700square feet.

Named for its shape, this house, designed by architecture firm Atelier Tekuto, occupies a 322-square-foot lot in Tokyo. The three-story house has a living and work space on the top floor with windows spanning the width of the building. It has a bathroom and bedroom on the second floor and a music room on the main floor.
The house has 899 square feet of interior floor space, but the glass walls and high ceilings can make the small house appear larger.

Perched on the steep slope of a retaining wall in Kobe, Japan, this dramatic, wedge-shaped house makes the most of its triangular plot of land overlooking Osaka Bay. The design by Osaka-based architect Shuhei Endo features a roof of metal shingle board that is folded down over the front of the two-story house to create a striking façade. A section of the stone retaining wall behind the structure frames the back patio.

Fitting a home on the site was the hard part. At its widest point, the long and narrow property is just more than 10 feet across. Local ordinances required an additional setback, which meant the building would have to be narrow enough to fit in a standard U.S. parking space.

These unusual Itty Bitty Living spaces were found at http://realestate.msn.com

The Petite Hour Glass Figure

2011-01-30T13:08:00.000-08:00

If you’ve been blessed with an hour glass shape … girlfriend you are one of the lucky ones! Why do designers consider your body type that of a goddess? Well, the answer is simply you are as well proportioned on the bottom as on the top and you’ve been graced with a well defined waistline.

However, being petite does not make this a glorious stance to be in. It takes a little more know how to create a longer and leaner illusion that will truly flatter your body.

Actress Salma Hayek is a perfect example of a petite with an hour glass figure. Most of the styles she wears are solid in color, v-necklines to create height, material that flows gracefully over her figure and a style that flatters her waistline. It’s all about creating the illusions of more and less – more height and less bulk. Next time you’re dressing for your job or to go out on the town, work some magic and create your own illusions.

Dress all in one color from your top to your shoes. Don’t forget to match your tights or stockings to your outfit too. In the winter, dark colors slim, so try black, navy, charcoal, burgundy, deep green, or purple.

Our Spring & Summer Line Is Here

2011-01-28T15:33:00.000-08:00

Check out our slide show here on our blog featuring our new Spring & Summer line. You can view the entire catalog on line by clicking HERE

Maternity Fashion Woes

2011-01-19T12:43:00.000-08:00

1940

1950

1960


1970

1980

1990

2000

Maternity styles have gone from ill-fitting and boxy to rather chic and fashionable over the years.

The whole dynamic changes dramatically when a woman is expecting and happens to be 5’4” and under. So many times we hear the words “vertically challenged” referenced when talking about petite women. In the fashion industry the word Petite does not mean a woman is small but rather 5’4” tall and under.

It’s more of a challenge, however, finding something chic and stylish to wear when your midriff is expanding. Designers have finally recognized the fact that 70% of women are Petite and the majority, not the minority any more. Now all we have to do is get them to expand those designs to a maternity line.

Stores in larger cities or metros generally carry a petite line, which leaves others having to shop online. Before you hit the submit button on an order make sure they have flexible exchange policies. Most websites have detailed specifications and don’t forget to check whether the shipping cost on returns is extra.

Stick with monochromatic colors as they’ll make you look taller and slimmer. You're probably asking yourself what that means. It's a blending of the same hues in a color. See the photo here to the right as a sample where different shades of burgundy/pink blend together. Boat necks, rounded ‘V’ and high necks accentuate the shoulders. Stay away from anything with horizontal striping. Fashionistas advise not to wear geometric and/or floral prints. It’s best to use smaller and subtler prints and cotton is the best fabric as it allows the skin to breathe and does not irritate it.

Listed below are some sites that carry smaller sizes (it’s noted whether the style is petite for shorter frames or not).

isabellaoliver.com - size 0 up - not petite sizing

oldnavy.com - xs up - not petite sizing

seraphine.com - size 2 up - not petite sizing

lee.com - petite jeans - not maternity styles but can buy larger size to suit

anntaylorloft.com - small sizes from 0 up

maternity-clothing-fashions.com - petite styling - somewhat pricy

gapmaternity.com - limited selection

motherwearclothing.com..uk - small sizes but not petite sizing

funmum.com - petite jeans and trousers

jcpenny.com - limited petite styles

beautifulyoumaternity.com - petite - somewhat pricey

motherhood.com - xs starts at size 0 - not petite sizing

Spring Line Preview #1

2011-01-13T08:23:00.000-08:00

We thought you'd like to get a gander at some of the gorgeous styles coming your way mid-February when the new Spring/Summer line is released.

So ladies ... let me introduce ARIEL

Best Exercise for Petites

2011-01-08T10:46:00.000-08:00

Being vertically challenged can make exercising at a gym a trying experience. Let’s face it, many weight machines are not tailored towards our smaller dynamics. Free weight training exercises targeted toward building lean muscle along with a high protein diet are the best for petites to lose weight and stay fit.

Many might think just focusing on cardiovascular exercises will work but believe it or not, most smaller bodies generally do not respond as well to just this one form of exercise. You will have the most success losing weight by adding lean muscle mass as well. Our small bodies just aren’t designed to bulk up on muscle, however, if you incorporate light weight training into your routine, you will definitely develop a more toned and curvy figure.

A well-balanced routine most definitely should include cardio, strength training and flexibility. The success will not be in doing something well, it will be from partaking in something that is fun and gives you pleasure. The choices are numerous when it comes to cardio and include step or dance aerobics, brisk walking, running, cycling, dancing, rowing, skating ... anything that will increase your heart rate. Each of these activities will strengthen your heart and lungs to improve blood circulation, lower blood pressure, improve endurance, boost your immune system and reduce that stress we all have in our lives. It’s pretty amazing when you truly think about the benefits that can come from creating a really good sweat.

Strength training can be done by using free weights and elastic bands instead of those big machines that don’t fit our petite frames to build muscle mass and increase muscle tone, lose weight and strengthen your body from head to toe.

A regular exercise program without a doubt will help you feel, look and work better, stimulate your blood circulation and metabolism and allow your body to function like the well-tuned petite machine it's suppose to be.

Sex & The City Flash Backs

2011-01-06T09:34:00.000-08:00

Since Carrie & Charlotte are true "Petites" themselves, I thought you Sex & The City Fans out there would love to see an exclusive slide show of all of the characters since the beginning of the show.

The stylists who created a fashion statement for each of these divas did such a fabulous job.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/37235094/from/ET/?beginTab=1&beginSlide=1

2010-12-30T10:19:00.000-08:00

HUGE end of year sale beginning 12/31 nearly 60 designs slashed dramatically. Stop by and take a look. Click Here.

Small Is Beautiful ... And Delicious

2010-12-17T10:29:00.000-08:00

The kings of 18th century France desired these petite, beautiful desserts which were originally made for their pleasure alone. The name Petit Fours derived from the slow oven which these dainty sweets were baked and the name Petit Four actually means "little ovens."

These elegant bite-sized cakes can be layered with fruity cordials, truffle mousse, draped in fine chocolate and festively decorated over smooth, butter cream frosting. Each one is generally multi-layered no more than 1" squared and filled with velvety creams, intriguing fruits like raspberry, orange, strawberry and mocha.

Are your mouths watering yet? If you'd love to bake these tiny tid bits for your guests and family this holiday, click on the link below and ENJOY !

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Christmas-Petits-Fours

Holiday Shoe Styles That Flatter Petites

2010-12-07T11:41:00.000-08:00

We can compliment our appearance by choosing the right styles to make it possible. Sadly though, some of the styles we may love might not be flattering for our petite feet.

We loved Converses when we were younger and probably yes, the little girl in us still love them now, but when it comes to flattering our petite legs ... well ... maybe not
** wink **wink

Because we're short, gladiator sandals and shoes with ankle straps, ankle cuffs, ties around the ankle, heavy heels, very chunky wedges, or square toes are taboo.

Although wearing high heels is the easiest way to look taller, higher isn't always better when it comes to heels. Wearing heels that are too high will call attention to the wearer, but not in a good way. Never wear heels that are so high that you feel off-balance.

Classic pumps will make legs appear longer, slimmer, and shapelier too, so they're an excellent choice for short women. If the pumps have a pointed toe, all the better because pointed toes elongate and make petites look taller. A V-shaped vamp can also help add to a longer look. Keep the heel height and width proportionate to your size. If you're a plus-size petite, select heels that don't look too delicate or fragile. They don't need to be chunky, just shapely and well proportioned.

Shoes with peep toes are a good choice because they tend to elongate the foot and thus make you look taller. Wearing peep toes is also a great way to show off a pretty pedicure. Peep toes work well for short women whether they're on pumps, slingbacks, kitten heels, or flats.

Slingback sandals and slides are another great choice for petites because they look light on the feet and don't add a heavy or clunky element to an ensemble. Slingback sandals are ideal for summer accessorizing. Select a heel height that you can comfortably wear. Straps on the slingbacks shouldn't be too wide. Narrower straps look better and are more in proportion for petites. If the straps extend along the top of the foot to form a V or along the sides of the foot, that type of design is a plus because it will tend to elongate and make you look taller.

Ballet flats are just the ticket for loafing about, shopping, or even for the office if you work in a casual environment. No, they won't add to your height, but you can select styles with pointed toes, a V-shaped vamp, or peep toes to help give you a longer look.

The above styles can be purchased at Cinderella Of Boston.

Holiday Camouflage And Discipline

2010-11-30T14:21:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is here and with turkey day behind us, we’ve probably got a little additional padding in the trunk or thicker handlebars at the waistline because of all that wonderful food we enjoyed.

Because we’re Petite, extra pounds are noticed easier and they pack on in those places that simply can be unattractive. There is nothing worse than feeling as if bright red arrows are flashing like blinding beacons straight at our butts, thighs and waistline.

Obviously the best way to avoid the added poundage is watching what you eat, keeping the portions small and if you must indulge then get your butt on that treadmill the very next day and walk it off. We are human. The holiday season is a time to celebrate with friends and family and enjoy in the festivities. Should we abstain? No. Eat, drink and be merry … yes but just don’t go to extremes.

If you have added on a few extra pounds make sure you to avoid any prints and patters that will overwhelm your shape. We are vertically challenged to begin with and large prints will not only make us look shorter, but they will also add more pounds to the inches.

Tight, clingy fabrics will have you looking as though you’ve grown out of your sister's hand-me-downs. Be appropriate, conscious and wise as to what you place on your body. If you have to take it to the next size believe me you’ll look better. Don’t let your insecurity about wearing a larger size; prove the catalyst to make you look even worse.

Big accessories and wearing too many colors can overpower those added pounds as well. Even though you want to wear bright red to your Christmas party, think about going dark. One of the easiest ways to instantly look thinner is to wear flattering colors. Everyone knows that black is the most flattering color, which is why every woman should have the perfect little black dress. Black never fails to make you look slim and elegant. Darker shades of colors like blue, purple and brown can also help to hide flaws and create a slimming illusion.

But if you’re bored with black and want to wear more exciting colors, just keep this tip in mind: Bright colors draw attention to whichever area they’re worn on, so don’t wear a bright shirt if you’re trying to hide a big belly or large chest, and stay away from bright pants if you have a big bottom and wide hips.

Another rule for wearing flattering colors is to not pair a light top with dark pants if you’re on the shorter side. Doing so will visually cut the body in half, making you appear short and squat. If you want to accentuate your height or add a couple inches to your petite frame, wear monochromatic colors (tones of one color) from top to bottom. This helps to create a visual vertical line that lengthens out the body, as well as hides flaws.

Petite Purple Potatoes

2010-11-28T13:28:00.000-08:00

Like we said, this blog is about everything petite imaginable and how awesome to find something that may just tempt your pallet this next upcoming holiday.

Did you ever see anything so adorable? Believe it or not, these colorful buds were created in Colorado back in 2006 when a grower decided to practice some cross-germination techniques. These darling little buds with a deep purple skin reveals this gorgeous pop of bold purple as well when you slice into them that will add a distinctive look to any dish. Imagine the surprise of your guests when you place these in front of them.

Listed below are two great recipes you may want to give a go at:

AuGratin Casserole

Ingredients

4 slices bacon, chopped
1 leek, sliced
8 purple potatoes, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk
6 ounces crumbled goat cheese
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until it starts to brown. Stir in leeks and cook until just tender.
Toss potatoes with flour and stir into leek mixture, coating thoroughly. Pour in milk and stir in goat cheese. Cook until cheese is melted and mixture is bubbly. Pour into a 7x11 inch baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until top is golden brown and potatoes are tender.

Recipe compliments of allrecipes.com

Fork-Crushed Purple Potatoes

1 pound purple potatoes, washed
4 small shallots, minced
2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
6 tablespoons good extra-virgin olive oil (we used half, and it was plenty for us)
Fleur de sel to taste
White pepper to taste
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

In a large pot, cook potatoes with skins on in heavily salted boiling water until tender, approximately 15 minutes. Remove potatoes from pot, and peel them while still warm. Place potatoes in a large bowl and, using a fork, gently smash them, maintaining a fairly chunky consistency. Fold in minced shallots, lemon juice, olive oil, fleur de sel, and white pepper. Finish with parsley.

Recipe compliments of New York Magazine

2010-11-24T10:27:00.000-08:00