Thajyeeb... I like your outfits... the only thing is that with the prints... it seems to expand and make you appear top heavy... which I don't think you are. I think all you need is some jackets to nip you in... if blazer will be too formal for work... there are lots of jean blazers out there that will work also... and denim vest. I know you like cardigans, but they are not very good at nipping you in at the waist.
Like you said, you and I have shorter torsos, so probably a jacket that is no longer than 22 inches (measured from bottom of collar, down center line, to the bottom of the jacket)... and nip in the waist like my Teri Jon jacket that I wore with the flag shirt.