Today’s mini break was to go shorts shopping! I desperately need something other than my 1998 Abercrombie + Fitch canvas shorts. <3 them, but they are too big and too old.
First stop was Old Navy. Boooooo. They just don’t understand body shapes there! Everything was too tight in the hips and waaaay too big in the waist. I did get two sleepwear items and some candy stripe shoes on sale!
Wore the new side purse my mom got me! Very nice for hands-free shopping 🙂
Next stop: LOFT. My favorite store!
I skimmed the shorts, but also eyed the dresses. Pulled back these two.
I tend to do for structured solid dresses. I loved this purple.
But if mom were with me, she’d say “It does nothing for your figure” = rejected
This one was very cute!
Until I realized I could not wear a bra with it. That’s not an option = reject.
Then I moved on to shorts. Pair one was cute.
But as usual, the waist was too big
And the hips too tight
Pair two were very very cute
But again, just too big in the waist. They only had size 4 in these 🙁 I like my shorts loose, but sometimes they make my waist look huge when they are poofing out – especially when I sit down.
I just loved the fabric!
Pair 3 was a score!! Perfect soft khakis. Perfect material thickness. Perfect inseam and sat well on the hips.
Looked good with shirt
But still too big in the waist!
At this point I dropped down to a size 2. They felt a little snug at first, but the waist was perfect and after doing some squats they conformed nicely.
Noted:
I don’t love black shorts (that’s the color the girl brought me) so I switched to purple
Perfection!!!!!!!!
I really, really liked the feel of the bigger blue ones, and they didn’t have these in my size in blue 🙁 I nearly got the size 4s and to wear big. Nearly.
Shrink or stretch?
The girls finally told me they would stretch, and any more stretch and they would have been falling off.
So I got the 2s. Three pairs of them. And might order the blue color online!
Gotta keep this post short, as I’m late for Body Pump! Then bread!
I love Loft! I think the shorts are going to be perfect. I actually like the dress that you think your mom wouldn’t like – it’s cute on you!
Agree with this about the dress!
Me too! Those dresses are both gorgeous!
loved the first dress. with a belt around the waist would be super flattering to your figure!
I like it too! I got falsely accused!
haha poor Mom! I think the dress would’ve been really cute with a belt sitting high on the waist. it would also emphasize your figure 🙂
Loved that dress on you! Super flattering!
I know it can seem like a waste of money…but what about getting them tailored in the waste? I have to do it with A LOT of my high wasted skirts bc I have the same problem but it really helps with the hassle and then they fit SO WELL for a lot longer. Just an idea 🙂
Yeah I really like the look of the shape/cut og light blue shorts and that size on you-I would get those and have waist taken in!(but probably not helpful now you have
bought the others!)
I mean the grey ones?(ones AFTER the patterned one)
gah! Kath, you’re killin me! (lovyas, but it’s true! 😉 )I agree with you Emily…if Stacy and Clinton taught us ANYTHING it is that you must learn when to use a tailor…or in my case…my sewing machine! I was blessed with a mother who knew how to sew and thought I should know how to sew a button, a hem, and take in a waiste…although a tailor for these things usually is pretty inexpensive…
If those shorts are cotton or cotton blend, I have to tell you unfortunately that they will most likely shrink not stretch…I promise! 🙁
Hahahaha- Love the Clinton and Stacy reference. I forgot about them!
Pants/shorts/skirts (ok, bottoms!) should always fit your widest part (generally, hips). It’s such minor surgery to have a tailor take in the waist and it won’t break the bank (probably about $10 … or less).
that’s what i was going to suggest. it costs a little extra money, but i’ve found i can buy more inexpensive items and get them tailored to perfection for still less than buying something that already fits well.
I am a fan of capris and skirts more so than shorts. But glad you found a pair you like!
I’m like you–when I find something I like and that fits well, I buy several of it! I also have the same problem often of things being too tight in the thighs/hips, and WAY too big in the waist. Loft usually has nice-fitting clothing, but I’ve been struggling lately with my old standbys (Banana Republic, Old Navy, Gap, etc.). Those shorts look great on you! And I actually like that first purple dress :)…
Loved both the dresses you tried on:) Great find with the shorts!
Bought the same shorts about a month ago, in a nice coral color 🙂
Those are some cute shorts! I’ve gotta try Loft. I always look for work stuff there.
The pair with the floral print is really cute–bummer they didn’t fit. I have never been to Loft, but I am going to make sure I go the next time I am close to one!!
I have the exact same problem at Loft- waist is too big, hips/thighs too tight. I don’t know if it’s me or the clothes. Very annoying.
Nice shorts! I laughed about your Old Navy comments because I feel almost the same way, except on me they are tight in the hips, loose below the waist, and the actual waistband seems tight. Maybe I just like stretchier bands? In any case, good to know other people struggle there too. So sad because it’s so cheap to shop there!
I love Loft – my favorite place to shop. They always have 30% off and 40% off or some other really good sale on Saturdays which is always good!
I also hate old navy, nothing ever fits me correctly from there.
Stretch for sure! I always buy pants/jeans/shorts which are initially snug! Plus with all those squats and lunges youre doing in body pump, they’ll be perfect fit in no time!
I also love the jewelry they carry at The Loft as well:) The shorts look great on you!
I have the same issue with skirts, shorts and pants. I have muscular legs and a small waist and have a hard time finding ones that fit well. I have had good luck with The Limited, Banana and Loft.
Love The Loft! 🙂 Your finds look great! I had great success with the Gap this season. Old Navy never fits me correctly either!
Cute shorts!
Shorts are some of the hardest things for me to buy! I totally agree with the waists being too big and the hips being too small. Plus my runner’s thighs don’t really allow shorts to fit well in that area! And I need shorter shorts because my legs are so short! Me and shorts are not friends, but you looked really great in the purple ones 🙂
Love the shorts your ended up with! I can never find bottoms at Old Navy either!
it’s so hard to go shorts shopping! i still rely on jcrew
I hate pants shopping for the very reason you illustrated here–nothing seems to fit me right! If the waist fits, the hips are either too tight/too loose. If the hips fit, then the waist is too tight. Then there are the inseams which are in a whole category on their own.
I’m glad you were able to find some shorts that fit. Those shorts are pretty cute.
Oh my goodness, I went to Old Navy this weekend and almost had a fit in the dressing room. NOTHING fit me right. I was looking for cheap, fun clothes to wear on my honeymoon in Hawaii and I totally left feeling like a whale who can’t wear cute clothes 🙁 so frustrating! So I’m glad to hear you feel the same way about Old Navy just being cut weird…I knew it couldn’t be just me! I also have the hardest time finding sizes because I’m pretty much “average American” size and I swear all they have is 4s or 14s!
I recently bought a pair of what seems to be linen/khaki blend shorts at Old Navy that I LOVE! Of course, I went back to buy a few more….none. Thats what is so frustrating about shopping there. I find things I like and then they are gone.
LOFT pants stretch SO much. I bought a size 4 pair of linen pants last summer. I thought they were tight, but they stretch out a ton. I probably could have sized down!
You really do have a gorgeous figure Kath! I’m ever so envious of women who actually have shape – I am so straight up and down, I would kill for some hips! You’re ever so lucky 🙂
Thanks friend
You are tiny Kath! Wow! Loft also has a curvy fit that are super small in the waist but bigger in the hips and behind!
It’s always hard for me to shop for bottoms too, especially when it seems like they are all made with stretchy material!
Those look super cute though, I also love JCrew shorts for my body type.
JCrew shorts for the win! I was on a mission for shorts and had the best luck there.
I am with you Kath! I hate shopping for pants and shorts because the waist is way too big and the hips/legs are way too tight. That is why I prefer skirts most of the time!
I love the Loft also. It’s really hard to shop for pants/shorts. Finding the right fit is really tough. It also seems like if you want them to shrink, they stretch, and when you don’t have any extra room for shrinkage, they shrink. My problem recently has been my pants stretching out after I wear them for a few hours. Then they’re practically falling off even though they fit perfectly right out of the dryer.
I always size down in Loft shorts too. Great for the ego, right?!?!? They’ll shrink back up when you wash them but nothing a few bends/squats won’t fix! Get the blue online – I LOVE that color!
I always have the exact opposite problem: everything fits in the bum/hip area but the waists are too tight (I have no waist and carry all my weight in my belly — boo). I rarely wear shorts, opting for dresses in summer instead, because I find shorts the worst offenders. One place you could also try looking for shorts are outdoor stores like REI — North Face makes REALLY nice shorts that last a long time.
Old Navy clothes are awful. Cheap, ill-fitting, fall apart in the wash. I love a bargain, but I generally find their stuff not worth the trouble.
Cute– I love everything you tried on: your such a perfect model for them all! 🙂 I go through the same dilemma when shopping for shorts: it’s kinda like Goldilock’s and the three bears situation 🙂
I wear the same shorts – in a size 8. I love them, esp bc I have long legs! I bought them last year, and they are only a little more snug this year, and I only think it is bc I have lost the tone in my abs. I usually dry them 1/2 and hour and they are fine!
I saw your Open Sky ad on weather.com today!! Woot woot!!!
Love the shorts. All of my shorts are too big in the waste too. it is so annoying!
Haha I am currently wearing the shirt you have on in the “pair one” shorts picture! How bizarre!
I shouldda bought it!
It’s one of my new favorite “summer shirts!” Well worth it : )
Ha! I have NO butt and small hips so finding shorts is the opposite problem for me – what fits my waist is too big in the leg area!!
“It does nothing for your figure” –> My mom ALWAYS says that to… it’s so frustrating, especially when I think the shirt/dress does do something for my figure!
And congrats on finding shorts that fit! That’s always such a relief after trying on so many pairs.
I too find that Old Navy pants NEVER fit me properly! The waist always, always gapes at the back. Ive heard so many women say this too….wonder why they dont change up their pattern for some other body types.
Love the shorts you bought!
I have so few pairs of shorts and most are denim – LOFT is a great idea!
So true on Old Navy, I adore their long length pants, but so many styles just aren’t for my body type. Love the new purse, so cute! I like Loft, but it irks me that I’m a smaller size there for some reason – it shouldn’t! 🙂
I have the exact opposite trouble with shorts fitting. If I can find ones that fit in the waist then they are huge in the hips. If I find ones that fit my hips then it is waaaaay to small in the waist.
Those shorts look great on you!
I have just accepted that I cannot do shorts. I can never find a pair that fits properly. I totally hear you about the bra thing. I would love to wear some of the cute shirt/dress options out there now but a bra is a must! Non-negotiable! 😉
Amen to the non-negotiable bra!! I’m with ya! 😉
~
What is Bodypump?
And I have the same problem trying to get shorts!
BodyPUMP is a barbell weight lifting class. It focuses on muscle endurance and is run by Les Mills <—all instructors are certified through Les Mills so the class format is pretty similar all over the world. And, it changes your body in a VERY very good way! 🙂 It is a really good, hard class that helps participants lose weight, gain muscle, and sculpt.
I have the hardest time finding things that fit. My figure is small, but my frame is large. I know that doesn’t make much sense, but it’s true. Then on top of that, I have had two babies, so I have hips. I wish shopping was easier. Love the last pair of shorts on you! Super cute. I loved the dresses too!
I have the same problem I am tiny 4’11” but agree with the large fram even though it makes no sense lol!
It’s nice to know I’m not alone!
I love those Loft shorts that you bought. I definitely agree – they do stretch. I also have the blue dress that you tried on – for some reason my bra strap doesn’t show in the back though. Too bad it didn’t work for you!!
I tried on that open back dress at Loft too! It was super cute but just not practical with the opening. 🙁 Shorts-shopping is a nightmare! I used to love Express shorts but I tried on some the other day that were tight in the thigh openings but falling off in the waist. How do you size up/down from that?!
This post made me laugh because 1) isn’t it funny how no matter how old you get, you can still hear your mom’s voice in your head when you shop!? and 2) I also do squats when trying on pants and shorts!
I don’t do shorts. I have a pair of exercise shorts I rarely wear and I may do bermudas on occasion but even that’s a stretch. Shorts stopped looking good on me once I turned 7.
Lololol!! I totally agree! Here here!
I bought those same shorts earlier this spring and LOVE them–I have the opposite problem of the leg/hip being a bit too big and the waist being a bit too small, but I love the fit and the length on these.
I have noticed that they do stretch out a bit as the day goes on and you sit in them, but this just makes them even more comfortable in my opinion! Good for dressing up or down, and they go with any shirt.
Glad you found them!
Great new shorts! Love em!
Side note: why is everyone spelling WAIST wrong in the comments! I am having a major editorial moment 😉
Me too! 🙂
Hahaha! Me three!
Oops, that was me, sorry! too much old english leftover from the Royal Wedding! lol
Shorts shopping is usually a PITA for me. I hate shorts that are TOO short and that’s a lot of what I tend to find. I have good luck with Banana Republic, but I love that place anyway. I do hate that they stitch the pockets of their shorts shut though!
The pocket stitching is just to keep them new and smooth looking. It’s meant to be picked out once you purchase them.
Oh, I know that. I just find it annoying.
Loved seeing the pics of your shopping trip! Very fun.
I have that same problem all the time! Shrink or stretch. I have pairs I can’t wear until I’ve washed/dried them and pairs i can’t fit INTO if I’ve washed/dried them! So frustrating!
I love Ann Taylor Loft and totally agree with you that Old Navy doesn’t really understand body shapes…everything is really boxy (sorry I suggested it yesterday!!) :O
Loft is my fav too! I did luck out 2 years ago with Old Navy shorts and bought them in every color…hopefully they’ll last me a a few more years! Ditto wearing 10 year old (!!!) A+F shorts!
I love Loft! I haven’t been there in a while, but I’ll have to keep in mind that their shorts are nice. 15% discount for teachers! Yahoo!
I’ve been having the exact same problem except almost the reverse…a lot of stuff I try on is too big in the legs AND the waist! Ever since I got more into yoga last year I dropped a pants size but my weight remained the same, so I had to go down a pants/dress size nearly everywhere. It should be a fun, awesome thing, but it’s so annoying at the same time because the store sizes change all the time too! I just want pants that fit, darnit!
Those are the EXACT shorts that I bought at Loft a few weekends ago. I LOVE THEM. I had the same problems with all the other ones I tried on – too big in the waste, too tight in the hips. We def have the same body type – muscular pear! And I was surprised that I ended up wearing a size 0 in these shorts, instead of the usual 2/4. They must run big!
You look awesome! Love the first dress 😀
I love the Loft for stylish “work” clothes that don’t look “old lady-ish.” haha.
They’re shorts are fabulous…so is everything else – but there stuff does run a little “big” compared to other sizes. Another place to check – Target. I kid you not, I’ve had the best luck with their pants. For some reason they’re not “baggy in the butt” and they are more “slim fitting” in the hips than most places.
Glad you found ones at Loft! Those are the same ones I picked up too. I bought 2 colors and wish I had gotten more!
Kath, you might also try Eddie Bauer. They have a great selection of shorts, great fabric and good fit! And I have the same problem as you, always too big in the waist.
Was it really necessary to tell us how you’re a size 2 or 4? Ugh. Thanks for making me feel like crap about my body because I’m bigger than that.
I don’t like to “start things” on the internet, but I did feel compelled to just present my .02 on this subject.
As a blog reader and friend of Kath’s, I admire not only the time that she devotes to this blog, but the heart.
If you are a longtime reader, you should know that Kath started the blog to keep herself accountable on her weight loss journey. Of course, KERF has become so much more over the years, which is wonderful, but the fact remains that her journey is like any journey – it NEVER ends. In that, why shouldn’t she post her clothing size if it’s comfortable for her to do so? She posts just about everything she puts in her mouth, as well as her workouts, so why not more metrics?
Besides, if she DIDN’T post her size/height/weight etc – you know people would ask anyway.
Now, anyone may agree to disagree – as I may with you, but I just wanted to get those thoughts out there.
Why would you “feel like crap” b/c Kath shared her size? What does Kath’s body type and natural size have to do with your self esteem? Why would you desire to be a size 2 just because Kath is a size 2? Comparing your body to others’ is futile and is at odds with KERF’s mission and message.
Embrace your unique body and/or if your not at your “happy weight” then work towards that goal, and then take pride in your accomplishments. We are all individuals with our own needs and lifestyles and all on our own healthy living paths.
Amy: I am sure Kath meant no offense; she stated her size in the flow of discussing her decision making process.
Kath – Loft chino shorts and pants do indeed stretch (and are nearly impossible to shrink!)
Agreed. It has to do with the person’s insecurities. But it’s the same reasoning about fashion magazines and Holly wood stars getting so much attention and portraying a negative body image to women/young girls.
It’s part of society and for a lot of people isn’t easy just to “not compare”
Is anyone actually surprised she’s that tiny? She’s posted pictures before, and if you read the blog you know she eats healthy and is on the go practically 24/7.
Aw, don’t let size get you down…you might not be the same height or shape as Kath…which has nothing to do with weight necessarily but can change the size you need to fit your body correctly. Also, every company has different sizing…I can wear a 4 at Banana Republic, but i’m a freakin 8 at Express! I wear a size small top, but a size 8 in shorts! So it’s all relative…
Same here. While for a split second I started to compare myself, I quickly remembered that Kath is 5’4″ and shaped like a pear. I’m 5’7″ with a large, apple-shaped frame. My lean body mass alone wouldn’t fit in size 2’s! I wear typically an 8 or 10, but I know that clothing sizes vary between stores, especially the higher-end (basically, anything more than Target, IMO) stores. While I’m nowhere near a 2 or 4 in most stores, I’m able to wear my sister’s size 4 dress that she got from a more quality retailer. Other places I have to wear a 12. It’s all relative. I just have to keep it all in perspective.
i agree! embrace your size! Ann, if you’re at a happy weight then you can’t change what size you are… all you can do is dress for your body & tell yourself you’re beautiful everyday 🙂
Agreed. We are not defined by the size of our clothes. I also wear different sizes at all different stores – from 0 (which is obviously skewed) to 8’s in department store sometimes. The only reason I included the sizes was for explanation of how in-between them I was – “the one that was a little looser” vs. “the one that was a little smaller” would have been a mouthful. I’m sorry if it bothered you.
If anyone should be “upset” it should be me!! I’m 5’4 as well. A size 2 or 4 is so foreign to me! Every body distributes weight so differently! It’s taken a very long time to be at relative peace with being a size 8. We have to accept ourselves and strive to be the best we can be.
You hit the nail on the head! Sizes mean nothing, especially women’s sizes! It’s all about body shape. I’m petite and wear a size 4 usually, but I’m not nearly as skinny as a taller size 4 would be… I’m just small. My clothes range from a kids 14-16 to an adult 10. (What the heck is up with that anyway?!) Kath just “talks” to the blog like she would to a girlfriend, and I for one, find that kind of public honesty admirable:)
I agree with you Ann…it all comes down to blogger responsibility. Don’t post what size you are on the blog, it accomplishes nothing but making others compare themselves to what size you are. As popular of a blogger as you are Kath, I would think you would know better.
I do not think it’s my responsibility to omit anything. Saying a clothing size is not something that should upset anyone, especially in the context in which I used it.
I’m not going to get into the original debate of whether the size was necessary/appropriate to post or not. I will, however, say that it was a little uncool to mock the people who were bothered by you sharing your size in a later post. “Unfortunately the women’s small (oh gosh, should I be saying the size!?) the size I got was waaaaay too big!!!!” I’m a fan of your blog, but that seemed rude and insensitive. If you want to address the discussion, do it, but don’t mock people who commented (no matter how rude or insensitive they may have been).
I don’t think there’s anything at all wrong with posting your size. There’s a difference between blogger responsibility and reader’s taking things too personally. What size Kath is should not hit such a nerve! A variety of sizes are healthy depending upon your height and build.
I could see the point of this discussion if Kath made some flippant remark about how everyone should be her size, etc. But that’s clearly not the case. Toughen up.
That’s ridiculous. If she has any responsibility to readers at all it’s to be open and honest about the things she blogs about – such as clothing when she’s going shopping. Look at her body, is she sick? No, she’s in shape. It’s not like she got that way irresponsibly, she works her butt off and this is the most twisted debate I’ve heard of. She projects a pretty great, motivating image for readers to look up to, not envy.
This debate is skewed anyway since so many of the “negative” comments have been deleted…I am not in any way discounting the hard work she has put in to get herself where she is…however the actual size she is is completely irrelevant to anything and doesn’t serve any purpose (she could have just as easily said “i dropped down to the smaller size”). That is just as honest as saying “I dropped down to the size 2” but without the potential for making others feel bad that they aren’t a size 2. Like it or not, people are obviously influenced by Kath. I personally don’t envy her, but a LOT of other people do and she should be aware of that.
I agree with you that bloggers need to take more responsibility in some ways, but editing their life is not one of the ways. Kath’s decision to mention her sizes was, I believe, completely harmless. I see it as the dressing room conversation with friends. I think it’s sad that so many people are hung up with sizes and weight, but it is not Kath’s job to tiptoe around the situation.
I see where you are coming from Stephanie, and it is a shame that we as women put so much of our self esteem into the size we wear, but I also don’t think it’s Kath’s (or any bloggers’) personal responsibility to omit personal details they want to include on thier own blogs for the sake of someone’s feelings. The reason I feel this way is because anything and everything on the internet is subject to opinion and criticizm so anything and everything could potentially offend someone. I think Kath is a good example of someone who uses good judgement in general with her blog, so the decision to include her size of shorts (which isn’t even necessarily her size at another store) was simply in context to her shopping trip, and not a statement of what size someone should or shouldn’t be to be considered healthy. This of course is just my own opinion, which is also subject to criticizm. 😉 I think we as women have to take personal responsibilty for our feelings and not let something as trivial as the size we wear have such a great affect on how we feel as a person. if anything, this post teaches us that we shouldn’t define ourselves by the size of our shorts, but by the size of our minds and our hearts!!
Amy, the best thing that you can do for yourself is to embrace and celebrate who you are and surround yourself with good people!
Sorry!! I meant Ann. I had Amy on my brain for some darn reason!!!
I am nowhere near a size 2 or 4, I’m 75 pounds overweight so you get the idea, but I wasn’t offended with Kath’s size. We are all unique, and the size of a clothing shouldn’t define who we are. Kath is 5’4 and weight in the 120’s if I remember correctly, I’m 5’7, big boned, pear shaped as well, the lower I see myself go is a size 12, and that is ok with me because that’s what my body is shape for. Embrace your body! 🙂
This size issue reminds me of a post by Katy Widrick on how much sizes vary by retail company. Size is relative!
http://katywidrick.com/2010/11/08/size-is-just-a-number-too-and-im-a-twoelve/
I was in no way offended by Kath posting her size, and I’m of a similar height, but overweight. I felt like Kath was just ‘chatting’ with all of us as if she were talking to her friends (which I feel like I am one of 😉 ). Thanks, Kath, for being honest with all of us – don’t feel like you need to hold back just because a small handful of people are too picky. It’s your blog; post what you like!
Agreed, E.
I always have to get my shorts/pants tailored to fit, so don’t feel bad! You’re not alone 🙂 And Old Navy…well, the only items I can EVER buy there are dresses and pajamas. I find most of their clothes very boxy and unflattering!
Hey Kath! Your pics are so fun. Thanks for sharing! I was going to ask you what kind of camera you’re using…I need a smaller one.
Thanks. It’s my old Canon P&S. I think the 880? The 1200 is a really good one! I could use a new one..
Yup, I felt huge too after reading that,but not Kath’s fault-
this is they way of the magazine world-if you are not a size 1 or 2,
we are considered massive!
A touchy issue for ne unfortunately-boo to magazines!!
Those are the exact shorts I got online a while back! I love them 🙂 I also got a pair of jean shorts with rolled cuffs that I love even more! Yay for LOFT 🙂 I used to work there in college and kinda miss getting the employee discount, but it seems like they run sales more than they used to… I always hit it up when they have 40% off the entire store – watch out for FREE SHIPPING offers too!
I Love LOFT!!! You and I have a very similar shape. I originally bought those shorts in a 4 but they stretched out SO bad, they were literally falling off. I went back and swapped them out for the 2’s. Just like you said they were a little snug but stretched out perfectly!! I love them!!
So glad to know!
If you love ’em that much, you’ve gotta get the blue, too! When I find a staple item like that, I always buy a ton. Every summer I hit up the J Crew outlet for tanks–they usually go on sale for $5 a pop and I stock up!
Are the ones you ended up with the 4″ twill shorts? Also, I love that you shared pics and notes — I feel like you just saved me time shopping, as I am also usually a size 2 or 4 at Loft (LOL!) THANK YOU!
Also, I love your sandals! Where are they from?
Loft sizes run really big. I am an 8 and wear a 4 or so in Loft sizes. I wish they wouldn’t do that. There needs to be an industry standard. =)
I know! It’s actually really frustrating because the “vanity” sizing is SO obvious. I don’t care about what size I wear! I just want the usual number to fit!
Amen. It’s too bad clothing sizes for women aren’t based on measurements, like they are for men. Would that be so hard?! Also: in Europe there’s a new absolute standard for clothing sizes and this was done specifically to eliminate vanity sizing.
I know! I would love to be able to buy pants based on inseam. It seems in the past few years the “normal” inseam has gone up an inch. I’m too tall for petite and not tall enough for regular. It’s frustrating.
I just got a size 0 at LOFT after gaining about 15 lbs. used to be a size 0 there 15 lbs. ago. sizes mean nothing
Oh I love the dresses! They are so cute! What a fun shopping trip!
Cute shorts! I have such an issue shopping for them because I’m so short I end up feeling like they all look too long on me.
Hah! I have the exact OPPOSITE problem! I’m an apple shape, and my hips are small in proportion to the rest of my body. I can never go by size charts. If I go by my hip size, I’m supposedly a size 6, but if I go by my waist size, I’m supposedly a 12. Say wha?? I usually average out the size and get an 8 or 10. Maybe that’s why I love Old Navy sizes so much.
LOFT is my favorite store as well!
glad you such good luck, kath! it was fun to go shopping with you!
and old navy is ok for some of us… 🙂
Kath-
I have 5 pairs of those exact same shorts and I promise that they STRETCH not shrink. I typically wear a 2 or a 4 in pants (more often than not a 4) but 2s are perfect in these pants. They will fit you great. I also have a small waist and “bigger” hips and they are the only shorts that fit me well. The tiny bit of pulling at the hips will go away once you wear them for a couple hours.
i have the exact same problem! so glad you found some you like. i find j crew to have great shorts but i’m definitely checking out loft now 🙂
I like all the dresses you tried on.
I love the flower print shorts! They are too cute!
I wish all clothes were created equal (size-wise), and every store’s clothes fit the same. It would make it somewhat easier to shop.
http://faithfulsolutions.blogspot.com/
I hate shorts shopping. The end. I guess your story encourages me, it’s not just being bigger (size 8-10 at 5’3″!) it’s a pain for everyone.
It is definitely a pain for everyone!! I’m about your same height and it’s hard to find anything that’s not either obscenely short or right at the knee where it makes me look even shorter and squat 🙁
Kath, that’s so funny — I saw your tweet about looking for good stores for shorts and almost replied to go to LOFT! That’s where I buy the majority of my clothes anyway, and I love their shorts! I have 4 or 5 pairs from last year that are very very similar to the ones you bought. Don’t you just love that slate blue/gray color? And they’re just the right length! So glad you found the “perfect pair!” 🙂
Hi Kath!
I love the pair of shorts that you bought! If you have time do you mind telling us the style of them? I just might have to get myself a pair. 🙂
Thanks! Have a good day at the bakery!
This is them!
http://www.loft.com/loft/search/searchResults.jsp?gridSize=md&_requestid=3012663
hmm thanks for linking it…but no shorts show up?! thanks anyways
Aw snap. It’s number 252711
I love the dresses at Loft, but sometimes it’s hard finding ones that fit properly. I’m a 0 or 2 with an A cup and I feel when I try most of their dresses on, I have room for a couple of grapefruits up top.
Susan- I think that’s common with a lot of dresses. I’m small pretty much everywhere and find that dresses usually leave me needing either a tailor or some sort of stuffing 🙂
I don’t seem to have that problem with dresses from other stores. I’ve had some dresses tailored before.
Yay for Loft!! I’ve had great luck there and with Lands End… the only place I can ever find a bathing suit that fits right!!
I need to do what you did…..when I find something I like (shorts, pants), I need to buy several. Otherwise I just keep going to that one pair that fits best and rest sit in my drawer! But then I’m always afraid that if I lose (or gain) weight, I’ll not only be stuck with one pair that doesn’t fit, but several. UGH!
Love the Loft! All of my shorts are from there. I have the floral printed ones you pictured and love them. I also just bought the dress with the cute back this weekend and am able to wear it w/ a regular bra, which is why i was so excited about it. Glad you had some success though!
You should consider buying shorts that fit you in the hips and getting them tailored to fit in the waist. It’s not very expensive and can make life so much easier.
As some of the other commenters suggested, I have similar issues ( wider hips than waist). I take mine to the tailor and have them put two “darts” on each side to fix the waist band.I usually also have to have pants hemmed due to being petite. Usually cost around 8-10 bucks for the darts. Loved the shorts though!
Kath – I have been reading your blog for over 3 years (or more!) and have never commented. I find the things you do very inspiring – I have a similar goal-orientated/list making personality and it is always cool to follow and get tips from people who you feel you have things in common with. That being said, I am really surprised you went ahead and put your sizes up in this post. The MINUTE I read this post I knew that there would be over 100 comments in no time….and, if I knew that being a casual blog reader, I am sure you knew you would set someone off when you wrote the post since this is your career and you are clearly an intelligent person. The size “issue” doesn’t bother me (I’m almost 30 and fairly comfortable with my body after years of work in acceptance), but I would have assumed you would have focused more on how impressionable your large audience is and a little less on your clear excitement that you were able to buy a size 2 (believe me, if I bought a size 2, I would have been tempted to shout it from the mountain tops too!). I’m an sure the comments you received on this post will probably disuade you from doing it again – live and learn, I suppose. Happens to the best of us. Best of luck to you – you’ve got a ton of great things going on!
Well most of the comments are just that people have the same issues – not criticism.
I don’t regret saying the sizes and did not mention them for any reason then to say I was having trouble finding a good fit. There was absolutely no tone in this post of pride with the sizes – I think people are just projecting that from their own insecurities in their numbers. I wrote it lightheartedly and without a thought to my weight or size at all!
Well some critcism has been deleted, though.
Agreed. Sizes are irrelevant to the point: your hips are bigger than your waist and it’s hard for you to find shorts.
I’m not overly sensitive by any means, but this post reminds me of how much women have the importance of sizes ingrained in their minds. Though you probably didn’t mean anything by it, that it was even mentioned DOES indicate its importance on some level in your mind.
Actually, you are wrong. It really doesn’t matter to me. I was simply comparing.
Had I said: “The size 7 shoe was too small but the size 8 was too big” would anyone care?
Had I said: “The 34DDD bra was too small but the 36DD was too big” would anyone care?
You are all taking this way too seriously. I really just mentioned these to share how indecisive I was. That’s IT!
I would care because I wish I had your boobs! 🙂 Keep smiling, friend.
Me too!! Ha!
The boys might care if you were talking bra size! 🙂 I was surprised you were SO tiny because you’ve got great muscles, but besides that I didn’t care. The better I take care of my body, the less I care about the numbers!
Thanks for the Open Sky Justin’s deal! I’m already salivating!
Hahaha. Pregnancy must be getting you a bit closer to that though. 😉
Kath, that is the PERFECT example of how you were using the size numbers. I think a lot of us can identify with the frustration of being stuck between sizes, which is all you were trying to say.
C’mon folks – there was absolutely no gloating here! If you have body image issues, then work on those, but it’s unfair to blame Kath for being “insensitive.” She likely assumes that regular readers have evolved beyond such sterotypical jealousies.
Seems like mentioning the size was the easiest way to communicate the problem she was having shorts shopping – which is something easily related to by most women and a good blog topic.
I truly don’t think Kath expressed “excitement” over finding that size 2 shorts fit. She just mentioned the size because, as she has already noted in the comments, referring to the shorts as “size 2” and “size 4” is easier (and, frankly, less awkward) than saying “the smaller” or “the bigger” pair.
Yep–just went back to double-check, and she just said “At this point, I dropped down to a size 2.” Not, “WOO HOO! Then I fit into a size 2!”
I think anyone who’s reading this post as “bragging” is projecting their own feelings. We’re all different sizes, we’re all different shapes, I think it’s MORE than clear from the context and style of the post that Kath was neither bragging nor expressing excitement nor trying to make anyone feel bad. And, in any case, who hasn’t felt excitement about getting into a smaller size?! When I can fit in a size 10, I’m doing jumping jacks! I wouldn’t fault her for being excited, but if that’s what’s offending you…I just don’t think that’s here. Period.
OOohhh….I LOVE that shirt color and the shorts match perfectly! Good for you. I’m glad you found something you like and that fits. I’m so picky with clothes that when I do end up finding something I like, I’ll buy two or three of the same thing in different colors. 🙂
I loveeee loft! I have that blue dress you bought, luckily didn’t have any bra problems, I adore it! We have very similar body types and I also have the same issue with the shorts and sadly, they will shrink if you put them in the dryer. I have a greenish/khakish pair that are now more snug than I like and a black pair that I am super careful to not put in the dryer. I found a super cute pair of dark denim ones there the other day that I loved, but didn’t buy them. I think I’ll have to go back for them!
I know everyone says to tailor, but I haven’t tried that route yet!
Speaking of which…I need to go shorts shopping. Not exactly my favorite activity but still need some!
I really want white denim shorts…they can look so classy if done right!
Taking in the waist is a SUPER EASY alteration. And inexpensive.
I really like Gap for shorts! That seems to be the only store that fits shorts AND jeans for my body type.
So glad that you were able to find shorts that you love and that fit well! 🙂 I’ve never shopped at The Loft, but maybe I will one of these days now that I’ve seen how cute some of their clothers are. 😉
Yay for finally finding shorts!! I agree the tone you were speaking and how you wrote it you were not bragging about your size just stating a fact to help convey your story.
Tacky? Is this conversation FOR REAL?! Ladies, we are adults, not kindergarteners- take responsibility for your own issues. Kath’s clothing size is just that- it has nothing to do with anyone else, and it’s absolutely not her responsibility to tip-toe around everyone who is looking to blame someone else for their own body image issues. This is one of the silliest comments I’ve ever seen.
That being said, I’m a size 0. OMG! THE HORROR! 😛
From the other spectrum, I’m an 8-10 and don’t give a hoot about her size except for the fact that I understood her problem finding shorts that fit!
I also recently bought 3 pairs of these shorts after realizing that they fit fuller hips with a smaller waist!! I absolutely love them! So good to finally have a brand/style that understands this body type!
UGH! Don’t get me started on how Old Navy clothes fit!! I absolutely hate it when I ask someone where they got a piece of clothing and they say ON because the store NEVER works for me.
Your legs are GAWgeous, lady!
I agree with the commenter who suggested buying the shorts (or pants or skirts) to fit your hips and then having a tailor nip in the waist. It is a VERY affordable and quick fix at the tailor. If I didn’t do that, I’d never be able to find anything that fit!
I find that Old Navy tends to fit really weirdly too. But I’m glad you finally found a pair that fits well! I feel like such a high schooler when I buy them, but I actually really like American Eagle shorts for fit.
I like American Eagle too. I feel super awkward going into the store though cause I’m like double the age of the people that shop there! I’m 33.
Love the shorts!
But also LOOOOOVE the yellow grey stripe top you had on in those last few piccies…. LOVE IT!
Just went short shopping myself and had luck at Lands End with their new section/line called Lands End Canvas. It’s a younger more modern style than their normal line. It’s not in all their stores, but you can always order online…….
http://canvas.landsend.com/pp/ChinoShorts~219648_-1.html?bcc=y&action=order_more&sku_0=::QAI&CM_MERCH=IDX_Women-_-Bottoms&origin=index
Sales pitchy, I know, but love sharing a good thing 😉
Thanks for this link! I NEED those pink shorts NOW! =)
Those are cute shorts!
Kath, don’t worry about the negative comments. Women can be so catty when it comes to weight. When I lost a lot of weight years ago, there were many women in my neighborhood who would not speak to me. Gee!
And I have that Loft dress with the tie at the neck, and I have no problem wearing a regular bra with it. Maybe my bra is just tiny! (I am very small chested).
You have inspired me to go shorts shopping. I have refused to try on any this year since, like you, I’m very pear shaped. I have been wearing nothing but dresses lately, but maybe I can find some shorts at Loft! Agree with you about Old Navy clothes.
I didn’t read anything catty above, though maybe it’s been deleted.
However it’s a pet peeve of mine when (men and women) insinuate that criticism coming from women is always based on jealousy. I’m not saying that it doesn’t happen, I’m just saying we shouldn’t act like it’s the default.
Agreed. Always seems to be the case that a woman cannot disagree with another woman without it coming down to “she’s just jealous.” I *hate* that.
There’s a reason Old Navy is so cheap, their sizes are bad and their clothes don’t last long at all 🙁
I actually think the purple dress, both dresses actually, were super cute! A sheath dress, is that what you’d call the first one is called your mom wouldn’t like, can be very figure flattering if the dress is taken in at the right points….add an adorable necklace and some sandals and it’s a hit!
Then the whole thing about the sizes—-good grief, I hate that women do this and harp on a woman if she does list her size. You were not complaining that as a size 2/4 or whatever woman you can’t find clothes. You weren’t fishing for compliments. You were comparing. Big deal. As a woman who is in a size 18 right now I was not thinking you were “one of those” because they are out there.
P.S. The shorts are super cute and the journey you have taken with your health and fitness is such an inspiration!! 🙂
I loved the dress you thought your mom would say does nothing for you. Add a cute belt to cinch your waist and it would be perfect!
I love The Loft too. I tend to gravitate toward their tops, but the shorts you bought look super comfy. Btw … Old Navy is always a bust for me. The fit is always off, and sometimes the materials is just plain old yuck. Great price, not a great fit.
I am SHOCKED that anyone would be offended by you posting your size in this context. You obviously are very athletic and eat well. If anything, it should be an inspiration. As a longtime reader I perceive you to be happy and well-adjusted with absolutely zero negative intent.
I’m guessing you didnt get the same backlash when you posted you were wearing a size L in Nike shorts. I agree with some of the other comments about getting things altered- it really makes a huge difference. Some stores will even do it for free. And that 1st dress is great, you should go back for it.
HA! You are so right! People are always looking for a way to deflect their feelings of guilt and lower self-worth on others, and Kath was unfortunately this week’s target.
Old Navy = a place I go for tank tops. My hips don’t belong in that store.
Kath, I read every day… I don’t think I’ve commented but maybe one or two times… just know that haters are gonna hate. This size 14 wearing, half-marathon running, momma of two read your sizes, gave you a mental “go ahead witchu bad self” and went about my day.
Love the Loft! When I was going to a college reunion, I found my outfit there. I really need to go shorts shopping too. But ah, can I have your legs? 🙂
Kath,
Don’t worry about posting the size. I love you and know you weren’t gloating. But DO go buy that cute shirt in the “shorts #1 picture”. You look long and adorable in it!
I agree with the sales ladies at the store, the shorts definitely stretch! I wish I would have known this, because I too am in the same boat as you are. I purchased a pair of size 4, have worn them twice, and already they are swimming on me and falling off my hips. I wish I would have gone with the 2. 🙁 Bummer. They are cute shorts, though!
I’m so sorry about some of the nasty things people have said in the comments. I really think that everyone needs to get over the whole blogger responsibility thing and seriously start talking about commentor/reader responsibility. We are all grown ups here so it’s time that some blog readers started acting like grown ups. Would you all talk like that to someone in real life? Just because you can’t see someone doesn’t mean that your comments don’t hurt them.
If you don’t like what you read hit unsubscribe and move on with your life. YOU are responsible for your life NOT Kath or any other blogger.
Anyway the comment I came to post before seeing all this is that you can get bras that have lower, wrap around straps for dresses like that blue one. They might work for you.
If an innocuous and non-targeted mention of your pant size is making the offendees feel like crap, how is telling you you ruined their day supposed to make you feel?
Funny how they don’t seem to bother participating in any of the considerate conversation they desire from their bloggers.
Shocked that the size mention is an issue at all, Miss Goldilocks! I am WAY larger than you and I didn’t feel the slightest bit offended. Obviously if I saw you next to me I’d know you were a smaller size than I am anyway…. Go ahead and tell me something I don’t know, haha. 😀
I totally get what you were saying in the context of the post.
<3
Kath – Just wanted to throw out that the sizes you mentioned didn’t bother me in the slightest. We see pics of you every day so we know what you look like! And obviously, sizing is a joke…I also have things in my closet ranging from 2 to 8 that all fit me!! Actually, I just noticed a dress in my closet from my honeymoon (1998) that says size 10. It fits me the same as the size 4 dress I bought from Ann Taylor last week. Ridiculous!!
I’m not sure how much too big the 4 was, but sometimes on the weekends I love hanging out in my biggish shorts. No one will see the gap and they are super comfortable to hang out it. Just a thought if you loved that pair.
And also – something popped up saying I was selected to participate in a Katheats survey. I had no idea what that was — is that something you (or your sponsors) put together? If it is for you, I will fill it out!
I definitely did not authorize a survey – what did it say? Any sponsor? This worries me!
it just said “you have been selected to participate in a Katheats survey”. Then it asked a bunch of questions about how often I read your blog. I closed it immediately b/c it looked funky. I will save a screen shot if I get it again!
Weird!! I’m so sorry. definitely not something I did!
Love your new shorts! I seem to be able to fit in size 6 pants no matter the store. I have long legs and a high waist,but have had 3 kids so have a little bit of a belly. Everyone is different … Kath is young, athletic, and in super shape. No one should compare themselves to Kath except Kath. She has done nothing wrong.
Shorts shopping is HARD. Argh…
I’m glad you found some you liked and that fit! I wish I had a local Loft- those clothes are super cute.
We read about what you eat daily. We see what you do for exercise. It is clear that you are an athletic/petite frame, I just think it’s bizarre how people are reacting to you discussing the size shorts you ended up buying. Really? Are they skimming through your photos and posts? Is it some big shock to them that you wear a small size? Sheesh, you just keep being you Kath. Don’t change for anyone. Your honesty and open personality is why I read your blog.
If you’re size-sensitive, try shopping in Italy. One goes from size 2 to “XL doesn’t fit” in just 9h across the Atlantic.
PS With Kath’s discipline and dedication to healthy eating and exercise, she should be proud of how she looks. Size 2 in most American stores just a normal size, not “supermodel-like”. There’s been incredible size inflation. I recently bought size 1 GAP jeans. Insanity! I’m 5ft9 and muscular.
Kath thanks for reminding me of The Loft. I need to find one again- their sales are amazing. Don’t let a few people change what you blog about. You treated yourself to alittle shopping spree and took us along as if we were your best friend. Thank you for sharing your life. Now i need to find some shorts that fit over my rump, hips, thighs, and my mama pouch.
Find a good tailor.
See that’s the complete opposite for me! I haven’t been able to buy pants or shorts in forever because they are too big on my hips and too small on my waist=((((
All you people who think someone else is responsible for making you feel “crappy”… because of their size… you have a tough life ahead of you. That’s all I can say.
Kath, I don’t know how you do what you do but please keep doing it. I love your blog even though I can not imagine writing one myself for these exact reasons.
I love the idea of doing squats in the changing room! Hahaha!
In my experience, you can never post small sizes and lower weights without lots of criticism. Individuals can be shorter, taller, thinner, heavier for a ton of reasons but so many people just see the low number and see red. Ever heard of skinny fat? I’d rather be larger and fit than slender and skinny fat any day. Kath obviously lives a healthy lifestyle with balance in exercise, eating habits, work, leisure activities, etc. It’s her blog and she is just posting her experience, bottom line. I wish people wouldn’t project their insecurities onto someone who puts herself out in public view in such a helpful and positive way, and if they are going to, not be so critical and judgemental.
Kath’s gorgeous and has worked HARD to be at her present healthy weight and lifestyle, so if she wants to take dressing room photos (which I loved because you get to see a lot of cute clothes) and mention the sizes for simplicity’s sake, then by all means do it. I love that I can get a real woman’s opinion on clothing sizes and fit. Oh well, we all can’t please everyone. If you read KERF at all, you’d know that Kath is NOT the type to gloat or boast about herself. You shouldn’t have wasted time posting your negative comment, unless of course in some sad way it made you feel better. In that case, I feel sorry for you.
Cute shorts! Even cuter legs! Haha! I am inspired! I just started doing more weights and I am seeing big results for the first time ever!
Also, on the sizes… I have known that they have changed over the years! I have kept jeans and swim suits that I probably should have given away years ago, but now I know that I can fit in those clothes still! However, the number size that I would buy now says it’s 2-3 sizes bigger?!? What the what?!?
Also, I don’t care that you wrote the sizes… like someone else said, it’s easier to explain with the numbers
perhaps not the most expected place to shop, but after shopping at American Eagle, Aero, Kohls, Gap, Limited, Loft, all the regular places… I have found the best fitting stuff at Good Will Stores. Because it is the most random collection of styles, sizes, and fits ever. The extremely low prices are just a BONUS.
Some things just never go out of fashion, like a good fitting pair of shorts. Maybe the “this year’s” styles don’t fit your shape, but last years (or 10 years ago) do. Where else will you find those again.
STRETCH! But I hate going a size smaller, otherwise I feel like it gives me chubs. *Sigh* Sadly, I NEED to go shopping for all sorts of clothes as all of mine are too big. Ha, realized my limited supply of fitting dress clothes just before going out of town for work last week. Oops!
Those shorts and the dresses all looked adorable on you! The shorts you went with are a great pick, for sure. You’re too stinkin’ cute, Kath!
I’m minoring in journalism and I’d just like to say that I’m really glad you used size numbers. The post would have been way wordy.. Less words = easier to understand! PS I love the shorts and just bought them in two different colors 🙂
KATH!!!!
You are adorable. But you are probably the WORST dress picker outer for yourself I have ever seen. You have a petite frame, you have to stop buying things that hang off of you and both of those dresses do. You would benefit from a wrap style dress, definitely something with a nipped waist and at least a hand’s length above your knee. A dress that has shape! You really should take advantage of petite sections, just like I have to take advantage of the tall section.
Otherwise it looks like you’re playing dress up (badly) in a grown ups clothes! I love your blog, and you inspire me to exercise more and eat more vegetables-please don’t be offended by my critique I am trying to be constructive. Shorts look great, you’ve got fab legs 🙂
Well not sure I should say this outloud, but that dress was a SMALL petite!! I thought it fit nicely. I think I have lots of dresses that fit me well, although note I did not BUY either of those! And did you really have to say I’m the worst ever!? That’s not very nice!! The rest of your comment was fine 🙂
Aw, I love both of those dresses — Loft is my go-to place for dresses that work for work AND play. 🙂
Cute shorts! Shopping for shorts is so much more fun than shopping for jeans, am I right? Haha.
people need to stop being insecure. Use Kath’s recipes, workout goals, etc as inspiration but her SIZE shouldn’t be your goal and it’s not your blog to tell her what to post and what not to post. If it offended some I’m sure she’s NEVER going to post her freaking size again. Also remember she is 5’2. When I tell some I am a size zero or size 3 sometimes they call me tiny. FALSE. I am actually above my “ideal” weight but I am short…at 5′ size 0 and size 3 are “healthy”. So don’t associate sizes with body confidence or the end all or be all cause it isn’t.
I personally think you rocked that purple dress and should have bought it!
My husband refuses to go pants shopping with me anymore since it takes forever. I seriously take in at least three sizes of each pair since I never know what I’ll end up buying.
For me it is always safer to go a bit more snug. The capris I was wearing today are Old Navy and start a bit tight when I put them on but I have a slightly saggy butt at the end of the day. I still love them though!
You look fantastic & I know you have worked hard to be at a healthy size! I would love to be as tiny as you! It is strangely comforting to know that even tiny girls have trouble shopping!
I liked both of those dresses above…the purple one would look cute with a belt. Disagree with the comment that said you are the “worst dress picker outer.” I like your clothes & I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in anything that was unflattering!
yes, everyone can express their opinion… but…if you have read kath’s blog…you would know that she’s physically active and pays attention to what she eats. if she wrote that she went back and forth between a 6 and an 8 would people be making the same comments?
writing about her shorts size wasn’t the theme of the post – it’s how screwy shops can be on their sizing.
i’m sure there are individuals that could go back to each and every post and find something that they found offensive.
when these kinds of discussions occur, i just think it’s a waste of time.
Would you mind telling me the brand of your shoes in this post? They look very pretty and more importantly very comfortable. Thank you.