Happy Friday, friends! It’s been a week over here, and I’m so ready for the weekend. I have a new try-on haul for you today, and it’s a virtual potpourri of fall and holiday fashion. I’ve been collecting these pictures over the course of a few weeks, so it’s a bit disjointed, but everything I’m sharing is still in stock and will be perfect for the fall/winter season… whenever the weather gets that memo!
As usual, I will provide measurements and fabric content on each item when I can find it, and I’ll share whether I plan to keep it or not. Just remember, even when I decide not to keep something, it doesn’t mean it isn’t worth checking out. I just may not need it, or it may not work for my body type or lifestyle.
Fall Fashion & Holiday Styles for Women Over 40
SIZING NOTES: I’m 5’5″ and I usually wear a small or medium in tops and dresses, a 29 or 30 in jeans and pants, and a size 8 shoe. Gifted items are indicated by c/o; everything else I purchased myself.
Sanctuary The Elevated Cardigan
at Evereve (M) // white tee (M) // light jeans (29) // flats (8.5) // dark jeans (30) // boots (8.5)
Details: Add a timeless layer to your collection with The Elevated Cardigan from Sanctuary. Crafted in a knit cotton-blend fabric, this sweater features front button closures, two front patch pockets, and a relaxed fit.
- Length from Shoulder to Hem: 22″
- Material: 57% Cotton 25% Nylon 18% Polyester Airspun Yarn
- Care: Machine Wash, Wash Cold, Hang To Dry
This is the perfect shade of red for the holiday season, but of course, you can wear it all winter long. I like the horizontal rib texture and matte silver buttons.
I styled this sweater first over a simple white crewneck with light wash jeans straight ankle jeans. The leopard print Mary Janes lend a modern touch that keeps it current.
I also tried it with dark wash flares and cognac boots, both buttoned and unbuttoned, but neither of these outfits really excites me. I think since it’s slightly longer than most lady sweater jackets, it looks better unbuttoned on me; if you’re taller, that may not be the case.
VERDICT: This is a nice quality piece, but I just don’t love it, so I sent it back.
Jenni Kayne Flynn Cashmere Sweater in Shadow
at Jenni Kayne (S) // MOTHER Weekender (29) // Birks (39)
Details: As a nod to the classics, this covetable 100% cashmere piece embraces all the ease of a relaxed fit knit with the sophistication of a v-neck silhouette. Tuck this lightweight layer into trousers or pair it with your favorite slip skirt to instantly upgrade any outfit.
- 23” Body length
- 31 3/4” Sleeve length
- 100% cashmere
- Dry clean
This Jenni Kayne cashmere sweater is pure luxury. The 100% cashmere fabric is super soft against the skin, and I know from experience that Jenni Kayne quality is pretty much unmatched. I have two of her fisherman sweaters, and they still look almost new after several years of regular wear. The best thing is, she has a way of designing knitwear that is practically trend-proof.
I love the narrow v-neckline, the generous sleeve length, and how nicely it drapes. It has such an easy fit, and it’s a perfect 23″ length. It comes in several colors, and I love how this Shadow walks the line between brown and grey, depending on what you wear with it.
It’s just so classic and easy, the perfect everyday sweater. Here’s how I wore it last week with dark wash jeans and dark brown boots. I topped it off with a green Barbour quilted jacket with chocolate brown trim.
Outfit Details
VERDICT: Keeping! As you can see, I’ve already worn it once.
AllSaints Ellie Floral Mesh T-Shirt
at Nordstrom (M) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Veronica Beard Lada // Victoria Emerson earrings & bracelet
DETAILS: Orchids in moody hues bloom on a trim T-shirt made from stretchy mesh.
- Crewneck
- Short sleeves
- 94% polyester, 6% elastane
- Dry clean
I wanted to love this floral mesh tee. I think the floral pattern is so pretty and has a subtle edge to it, especially on the mesh fabric. But it is waaaaay too small in the size 8, and I can’t find it anywhere in the size 10. Womp, womp…
VERDICT: This went back.
AllSaints Stevie Sugar Brown
at Nordstrom (M) // MOTHER Dazzler (29) // rag & bone Retro Runner (39)
DETAILS: Lay the foundation for a solid ensemble with this versatile T-shirt cut from soft, smooth cotton.
- 22 1/2″ length (size Medium)
- Crewneck
- Short sleeves
- 100% organic cotton
- Machine wash, line dry
I have this tee in the Optic White and Grey Marl, so when I saw this Sugar Brown, I grabbed it, thinking it’s such a nice option for fall. I don’t know if the others are this small on me or not, but I would feel better in a larger size.
VERDICT: I returned this, and as of yet, I have not ordered the large. I’m not sure I’d reach for this color, even though I like it in theory. I guess I should try it layered under a few of my jackets and see.
Adidas Handball Spezial “Earth Strata Gum” Sneakers
at FarFetch (8) (more colors at Nordstrom) // AllSaints Stevie (M) // MOTHER Dazzler (29)
DETAILS: Originally introduced in 1979 for handball players, Adidas’ Handball Spezial are seen here in a brown hue. Crafted from supple suede, the signature 3-stripes lands on the sidewalls, whilst a soft gum rubber outsole completes the design.
I’ve already shared these sneakers in this post, but I’ll add them in here too, since I have these photos. They’re very comfortable and very much on trend. They have good arch support, too. I love this cool brown tone, it works with a lot of my wardrobe and isn’t as stark as white sneakers against the warm fall hues I’m wearing. They also came with brown laces, and I might try those. It would tone them down a bit.
Here’s another outfit I’ve worn them with… the Z Supply All Day Stretch Twill Jacket, AllSaints Stevie in Grey Marl, and my beloved MOTHER Dazzlers.
I realize the price is kind of nuts for Adidas, but I cCuldn’t find this color anywhere else, and it’s what I wanted. If you like the style but aren’t married to this color, Nordstrom has a bunch of other color options at a more typical Adidas price point. In fact, I ordered the Alumina/ Black/ White because I think they would be fun to have.
VERDICT: Keeping! Already wore these a ton over the past week.
Vince Oasis-W Oxford Shoes in Malbec
at Bloomies (GC offer), Saks (GC offer) & Nordstrom (size 8) // hoodie (M) // jeans (29)
DETAILS: Add a retro footnote to your everyday ‘fits with this dapper leather sneaker with contrast logo elements and a rubber traction sole.
While we’re on the subject of sneakers, I also ordered the Vince Oasis in the Malbec suede. (FYI, some other colors are on sale at Nordstrom, and these qualify for the $50 gift card offer at Saks and Bloomies.)
I already knew I like this sneaker b/c I have the Foam White / Night Blue Leather. I saw this muted red/rust color and thought it would be a nice addition to my fall wardrobe. It’s a great color in person, and I like it a lot, but I didn’t think I needed both these and the Spezials, especially considering the higher price points on both.
VERDICT: I was planning to return these, but before I got around to it, I was doing a photo shoot with Alison last week, and I wanted to wear them with this camel sweater/black vest outfit. Once I wore them outside, I couldn’t return them, so I’ll chalk this one up to occupational hazards!
vest (S) // hoodie (XS) // MOTHER Dazzler (29) // Vince Oasis (8) // tote // sunglasses
While keeping both is making quite an investment in my sneaker wardrobe, I think I’ll find myself wearing both a lot. These are a nice contrast against all of the neutral outfits I wear, and the brown Adidas are a nice neutral that goes with almost everything else.
rag & bone Retro Runner in Mushroom
at Nordstrom & Bloomies – GC offer (9 US – 39 EU)
DETAILS: Breathable mesh and suede shape a retro-inspired sneaker featuring a streamlined silhouette and an OrthoLite® footbed for everyday comfort.
- Lace-up style
- OrthoLite® Lazy™ quickly molds to the shape of the foot and then instantly rebounds when the foot is removed
- Synthetic, leather and textile upper/textile lining/synthetic sole
I ordered these along with the Vince Oasis from Bloomingdale’s last week, but I didn’t care for these at all. They were stiff and uncomfortable, and the tongue is really stiff and too long.
VERDICT: These went back.
Very Merry Sweatshirt
at Avara c/o (M) // KUT from the Kloth Becca Jeans c/o (8) // Addison Flats c/o (8) // earrings
DETAILS: Merry and bright! Add some color to your holiday wardrobe with our Very Merry Sweatshirt. We love the contrast lettering at the front complete with an ultra-soft fabrication. As one of Emily’s Picks, we know you’ll love it too! Pair this piece with leggings on-the-go or elevate your look with a fun skirt and heels.
- Length: 24.5″
- Made of 55% Cotton , 45% Polyester
- Hand wash, hang to dry
I was gifted a few things from Avara, and I know a lot of ladies love shopping there, so I was curious to try them. Of everything that came, this is the only outfit worth sharing. I didn’t care for the fabric content on most of the items I tried, and the fit seemed off, as well.
This sweatshirt is fun and festive, but it isn’t very soft and doesn’t really drape all that well, and the jeans don’t look and feel up to the usual KUT from the Kloth standards.
VERDICT: I’m still on the lookout for new brands to try to keep my content fresh, but I don’t see myself adding this retailer to my rotation.
Charles Henry Off the Shoulder Long Sleeve Sweater Dress
at Nordstrom (M) // Jenny Bird earrings // Victoria Emerson bracelet
DETAILS: Sweater-dress season gets sultry with a wool-kissed option designed to show off your shoulders.
- Off-the-shoulder neck
- Long sleeves
- 45% acrylic, 30% wool, 25% nylon
- Machine wash, dry flat
I stopped into Nordstrom to look for some holiday attire, and I tried a bunch of things. Unfortunately, I did not follow my own “rules” for shopping — I didn’t wear or bring appropriate shoes or shapewear, so I did the best I could in bare feet. Also, the fitting room mirrors, as usual, were gross. This dress is pure black, not speckled.
Anywho! I thought this dress was supposed to have a cowl neck, but then when I found it online to link it, I realized it was supposed to be off-the-shoulder. Oh, well! I guess you can still see how it fits in the body. The fabric is kind of thin, and it’s definitely body-conscious, but it’s a great price point and a really cute dress, if you like off-the-shoulder styles.
VERDICT: I did not purchase this one.
Eliza J Ruched Long Sleeve Velvet Body-Con Dress
at Nordstrom (10) // Sam Edelman pumps (8.5) // earrings // necklace // pendant // bracelets // similar clutch
DETAILS: Sultry elegance defines this curve-accentuating dress crafted from rich velvet and topped with a ruched wrap-front bodice.
- 40″ length (size 8)
- 90% polyester, 10% spandex
- Dry clean
I styled this dress for the blog yesterday, but I’ll share the mirror selfies anyway. This also gives you a rear view, which for some reason we didn’t photograph for the post. I love that it has long sleeves (I’m always cold in the winter) and the v-neck back detail is fun. I also like that it’s a non-traditional color.
VERDICT: I kept this dress in case we get invited to an event that requires cocktail attire. Last year I spent hours and hours trying to find “the dress” for my husband’s business holiday party. We may not have one this year, but if something does come up, I’ll be all set!
Eliza J Sequin Bouclé Dress
at Nordstrom (10)
DETAILS: Gleaming crystal-covered shamrocks at the waist elevate this textural bouclé shift dress with a pretty flared skirt.
- 36″ length (size 8)
- Lined
- 78% polyester, 14% rayon, 8% other fibers
- Hand wash, dry flat
This dress is cute, but it’s not my style. If you like it, definitely give it a try!
VERDICT: I did not bring this one home with me.
Halogen Dress
at Nordstrom (S)
I can’t find this dress online anywhere, but I know it’s Halogen because I took a photo of the tag. It’s a size small, and it’s $119. If anyone finds it, let me know, and I’ll add links!
VERDICT: This dress does nothing for me and my body type, so I did not purchase it.
Vince Camuto Sequin Cap Sleeve Top
on sale at Nordstrom (S) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Veronica Beard Lada (8.5)
DETAILS: Slight sleeves frame this night-out top covered in party-perfect sequins.
- 24″ length (size Medium)
- V-neck
- Cap sleeves
- 95% polyester, 5% spandex
- Machine wash, line dry
You’ve already seen this one styled as well, but here’s the fitting room version. It’s slightly sheer, so I was sure to wear a black bra when we took photos.
Here’s the Dark Wine color; I really like this too, but I purchased the black because I wanted to style a more monochromatic look. I can see having both options in my closet.
VERDICT: I bought the black!
Vince Camuto Sequin Keyhole Neck Blouse
at Nordstrom (S) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Veronica Beard Lada (8.5)
DETAILS: Glittery allover sequins enliven this night-out top designed with three-quarter sleeves and airy keyhole necklines.
- 24″ length (size Medium)
- 100% polyester
- Machine wash, line dry
This is another nice option, if you want some arm coverage and a more relaxed fit. Here’s the front tucked vs. untucked options… It definitely needs a front tuck, in my opinion, but it might not if you’re taller than my 5’5″.
VERDICT: I did not purchase this; it’s just okay on me.
Vince Camuto Sequin Stripe Sweater
at Nordstrom (S) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Veronica Beard Lada (8.5)
DETAILS: The beloved striped sweater gets a glow up with glittering sequins splashed in.
- 24″ length (size Medium)
- Crewneck
- Long sleeves with ribbed cuffs
- 73% acrylic, 24% polyester, 3% spandex
- Hand wash, dry flat
If you’re looking for a cozy festive option, this sweater has potential, but I don’t care for the oversized fit. I probably should have tried the XS.
VERDICT: I did not purchase this. I just didn’t like it enough to go back and find the XS, but it’s a solid choice if you need something like this.
Halogen Metallic V-Neck Jumpsuit
at Nordstrom (M)
DETAILS: Keep the cocktail conversation sparkling in this shimmer-simmered jumpsuit designed with a face-framing V-neck and a matched belt to cinch the waist.
- 57″ length; 30″ inseam; 28″ leg opening (size XXS)
- Lined
- 55% metallic fibers, 45% polyester
- Hand wash, dry flat
I almost did not share these photos because… UGHHHHH. But I went ahead and put them in here, if for no other reason than to prove that I do not “look good in everything”, haha! I hate it when people tell me that because no one does. I feel like this jumpsuit ages me 10 years and puts on about 20 pounds of visual weight. No thanks! Compare this to the next photo… And you never wonder why I live in jeans.
VERDICT: Needless to say, I did not purchase this either.
Vince Donegal Cashmere V-Neck Cardigan
at Nordstrom (M) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Veronica Beard Lada (8.5)
DETAILS: Treat yourself to the cloud-soft comfort of this subtly speckled V-neck cardigan knit from sumptuous cashmere.
- Front button closure
- V-neck
- Long sleeves
- Ribbed cuffs and hem
- 100% cashmere
- Dry clean or hand wash, dry flat
This sweater is pure indulgence and a huge splurge, but it is soooo lovely. To be totally transparent, I was feeling pretty glum after trying on so many holiday looks that made me feel frumpy. I happened to walk past the Vince sweaters, and this one stopped me in my tracks. The second I felt it, I knew I had to try it on.
It’s such a thick, luscious 100% cashmere knit, and the donegal texture is so pretty in person. I saw the blue one, as well, and it’s also gorgeous, but I feel like I will wear a neutral color more. I did size up to a medium, and I’m almost always a small in Vince sweaters, so take that into account if you’re considering it.
VERDICT: I would normally wait for a sale, but in a weak moment, I took it to the counter and purchased it.
Vince Textured Fair Isle Wool Sweater
at Nordstrom (M) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Veronica Beard Lada (8.5)
DETAILS: A tonal Fair Isle pattern textures a substantive wool sweater knit in a roomy silhouette and framed by raglan sleeves.
- Crewneck
- Long sleeves
- Ribbed cuffs and hem
- 100% wool
- Hand wash, dry flat
This is another Vince sweater I pulled to try. Once I started perusing that section of the store, I kept going! I don’t care for the fit of this at all. It’s way too bulky, especially through the upper arms. It’s also 100% wool, rather than cashmere, so not as soft.
VERDICT: I left this one at Nordstrom.
Halogen Rib Sleeveless Sweater
on sale at Nordstrom (S) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Veronica Beard Lada (8.5)
DETAILS: Love to layer in this soft sleeveless crewneck sweater shaped by allover ribbing.
- 23″ length
- 89% viscose, 11% nylon
- Machine wash, tumble dry
I was looking for some base layers for under my many jackets, and this one is a nice option. It’s very flattering. The fabric isn’t as soft as some, but I like that it skims the body without clinging, as so many ribbed fabrics do.
VERDICT: I did not keep this, but not because I don’t like it. I just like the next one better… By the way, both of these come in other colors, and they’re currently 33% off at Nordstrom.
Halogen Sleeveless Sweater
on sale at Nordstrom (S) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Veronica Beard Lada // Pistola Utility Jacket
DETAILS: Perfect for layering, this sleeveless sweater has a mid-weight ribbed texture that brings extra stretch to the look.
- 23″ length
- 51% Lenzing™ EcoVero™ viscose, 27% polyester, 22% nylon
- Machine wash, tumble dry
This sweater is similar to the one above, but it’s a much softer knit, which I like, and I really like that v-neckline. They’re hard to find right now, so I grab any that I can find.
I like the ivory for wearing this time of year; it’s not as stark as white, and I tend to wear warmer colors for fall. Here’s how it looks under that Pistola Utility Shacket, which is on a good sale, by the way!
VERDICT: Keeping! This is a nice find. I might get another color while it’s on sale.
J.Crew Quilted Barn Vest
at J.Crew (S) // cashmere crewneck – 25% off (S) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Veronica Beard Lada
DETAILS: We love this versatile layer for fall and winter, featuring the same heritage-inspired details you know and love: a cord collar and polished gold hardware. Bonus points for being water-repellent and filled with PrimaLoft®, a down alternative that both keeps you warm and keeps plastic bottles out of oceans and landfills.
- 100% recycled polyester.
- Point collar.
- Button closure with hidden zip.
- Flap welt pockets.
- Machine wash.
This is a nice modern update to the J.Crew Excursion Vest that has been around for so many years. I like how they took inspiration from the Barn Jackets that are having a moment this season. The corduroy collar, diamond quilting, and gold hardware elevate the look and make it a little more polished than the puffy Excursion Jacket.
VERDICT: Keeping! I love vests in the fall, and this one isn’t as sporty as the Cooper Quilted Vest, which is the other one I have in my closet.
LOFT Faux Leather Pocket Shift Dress
on sale at LOFT (8) // old Sam Edelman boots
DETAILS: In luxe faux leather with plenty of pockets and metallic button trim, this shift dress wraps up your look with sleek and chic modern edge. Point collar. Short sleeves. Button flap chest pockets. Button front. Welt pockets.
- Fit: Shift – fits straight and relaxed length
- 34 1/8″ from center back neck to hem, measured from a size 8/M
- Shell: Imitation Leather, Coating: Polyurethane, Back: 100% Polyester, Lining: 100% Polyester
- Machine Washable
Okay! A big LOFT order came in last week… this faux leather dress is a lot more flattering on than I expected, and more comfortable too, although I’m not a huge fan of the puff sleeve. It’s a nice length, and I like how the chocolate brown dress pairs with these lighter brown boots.
I have chocolate brown boots too, and I believe I even have chocolate brown tights… I need to check. That would make a nice monochromatic look. If you dress up for Thanksgiving, this would be a nice option.
VERDICT: Verdict; keeping this. I hope I get an opportunity to wear it. By the way, this dress is marked down to $43.20 from $99.95.
LOFT Plaid Barn Jacket
on sale at LOFT (S) // Halogen Sleeveless Sweater (S) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Veronica Beard Lada (8.5)
DETAILS: From the touchably textured corduroy collar to the contrast lining and shimmery snaps, our structured woven cotton barn jacket is all about the rustic details. Point collar. Long sleeves. Snap and zip front. Snap patch pockets. Back yoke.
- Fit: Relaxed
- 31″ long
- Body: 100% Cotton, Collar: 78% Cotton 20% Modal 2% Spandex
- Machine Washable
This longline plaid barn jacket is a really nice option for those looking to add more variety to their outerwear wardrobe.
VERDICT: I decided to return this, even though I like it in theory. I didn’t feel like it was terribly flattering.
LOFT Seamed Ponte Mock Neck Dress
at LOFT (M) // Steve Madden Dagne Knee High Boot (8)
DETAILS: In super soft and stretchy ponte, this mod-chic mock neck dress is impeccably seamed for a tailored touch. Sleeveless. Back zip.
- Fit: Shift – fits straight and relaxed length
- 35 1/4″ from center back neck to hem, measured from a size 8/M
- 66% Rayon 29% Nylon 5% Spandex
- Machine Washable
This dress has such good 60s vibes. “Mod-chic” describes it perfectly. I just wish it fit better. You can see what I mean, I think, in the rear view.
It’s a medium, so I don’t think sizing up is the answer. I think it’s just cheaply made, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t look good on someone else. I just don’t feel like it fits my body very well.
VERDICT: I sent this back. If you’re built straighter through the hips, it may be a good fit for you.
LOFT Ponte Straight Pants in Plaid
at LOFT (S) // Halogen Sleeveless Sweater (S) // Vince Bianca (8.5)
DETAILS: With an elasticized waist, these pants are endlessly comfortable – and versatile.
- 11 1/4″ rise
- 28″ inseam
- straight leg with a stitched center seam
- 70% Polyester 14% Nylon 14% Rayon 2% Spandex
- Machine Washable
A few of you have requested more pants, so I ordered these. I think they would make a nice work wear option for those who need that.
VERDICT: I returned these, although I may regret that. They could be nice to have for church. I may re-order in the medium; I feel like I could use a little more room in the waist and hips.
LOFT Multicolored Stitchy Sweater
at LOFT (S) // jeans (29) // flats (8.5)
Details: A luxe touch of wool and irresistibly multicolored knit punctuates this stitchy sweater with just the right pop of cozy cool. Crew neck. Long sleeves.
- Relaxed sweater
- 23″ long, hits at hip
- Material: 75% Acrylic 25% Wool
- Machine Washable
This sweater is a great example of how important fabric and design can be. I love a good pullover sweater, but this one is terribly unfortunate. It hugs all the wrong places and adds at least 5 pounds of visual weight. I couldn’t rip it off fast enough.
VERDICT: Buh-bye!
Gap Factory CashSoft Cable-Knit Crewneck Sweater
at Gap Factory (M) // ribbed tee (M) // flares (30) // Blondo boots (8.5)
Details: Plush like cashmere. Easier than anything. With a lightweight layer-able feel & brushed for softness.
- Soft cotton-blend knit.
- Long sleeves with ribbed cuffs.
- Ribbed crewneck and hem.
- 53% Cotton Conventional, 47% Nylon Conventional.
- Machine wash cold.
On the contrary, this cable knit pullover has nice clean lines and a fine gauge knit that skims the body in a much more flattering way. This sweater isn’t any more expensive than the LOFT sweater; it’s just a nicer fit and fabric. Size-wise, the small fit okay, but I sized up to the medium for a little more breathing room.
VERDICT: Keeping! This sweater is also a good one for wearing over your shoulders.
Steve Madden Dagne Knee High Boot
at Nordstrom (size 8)
DETAILS: A slender square toe and blade heel balance a versatile boot shaped in a knee-high silhouette for timeless sophistication.
- 2″ heel (size 8.5)
- 15″ shaft; 16 1/4″ calf circumference (wide calf)
- Pull-on style
- Leather upper/synthetic and textile lining/synthetic sole
I need to update my black knee boots, so I ordered two pairs to try. I like the design of these, with the 2″ heel, but they don’t fit very well around the ankle, and they’re rather wide at the top of the calf.
VERDICT: They went back.
Sam Edelman Sylvia Knee High Boot
at Nordstrom (size 8)
DETAILS: Soft leather brings timeless style to a knee-high boot designed with a squared toe and sleek heel.
- 2 3/4″ heel (size 8.5)
- 16 1/2″ shaft; 14 1/2″ regular calf circumference
- 16 1/2″ shaft; 16″ wide calf circumference
- Leather upper/synthetic lining/rubber sole
This pair looks and feels like a better quality leather, and it may fit a little better through the ankle area. It definitely fits better through the calf, which makes sense when you compare the calf circumference measurements of both boots. (The calf circumference on these is 14 1/2″, compared to 16 1/4″ on the Steve Madden pair.) But these also have a much taller shaft — 16 1/2″, compared to 15″ on the Steve Madden pair.
This is why it is so important to compare measurements when shopping online. I know I need a small calf circumference, so if I’d taken the time to compare measurements, I could have saved myself the trouble of trying the Steve Madden boots.
VERDICT: I wish this Sam Edelman pair had the 15″ shaft height. They’re just a little too tall for me, and I don’t care for how they rub up against my knees when I walk, so I sent the back. The hunt continues! But now I know what measurements I need to look for.
Joe’s Jeans The Mia High-Rise Stretch Cropped Flare Jeans in Black Cat
at Saks (29) // Evereve Stevie Pullover (S) // Franco Sarto Emma (8) // Matisse McCarthy Mule (8.5)
DETAILS: The Mia jeans from Joe’s Jeans are tailored in a high-rise wide-leg silhouette. A classic five-pocket styling and silvertone hardware complete the look.
- 11.5″ Rise; 30″ Inseam; 21″ Leg Opening
- 92% cotton/6% elastomultiester/2% elastane
- Machine wash
I purchased these during the last Saks sale, as I’ve been wanting wide leg jeans in a black wash. They’re okay, very stretchy and soft, but I didn’t love the rear view. The pockets sit too high on my bum. They definitely look better with the Matisse McCarthy Mule than they do with the flats, and a black bootie might look even better because there wouldn’t be that break of skin showing.
VERDICT: I decided to return the Joe’s Mia since I have the FRAME Le Slim Palazzo, which I like better. FYI, these qualify for a $50 gift card at Bloomingdale’s and Saks (use code GETGIFTSF at Saks).
Rails Geneva Cardigan (S) – get a $50 Saks Gift Card w/ code GETGIFTSF // FRAME Le Slim Palazzo (29) – get $50 gift card at Bloomingdale’s and Saks (use code GETGIFTSF at Saks) // rag & bone Walker Chelsea Boot (39)
MOTHER Dazzler in Chip On My Shoulder
at Saks, Nordstrom & Mother Denim (30) // Stevie Pullover S // Schutz Arissa (8) // Clare V. Mid Sac
DETAILS: Our most popular mid-rise straight leg hits at the ankle with a clean hem. Cut from denim with a touch of stretch, Chip On My Shoulder is a dark blue wash with super subtle fading and whiskering. — Mother Denim
- 27 1/2″ inseam; 13″ leg opening; 10″ front rise; 14″ back rise (size 29)
- 94% Cotton, 5% Polyester, 1% Elastane
- Made In Los Angeles.
I ordered these because I love my light wash, raw hem MOTHER Dazzlers so much. I thought I might enjoy having a darker wash pair. I sized up to the 30 because menopause. Also, here’s an insider tip for you: darker washes tend to run smaller than lighter washes because dark dyes shrinks fabric.
At any rate. I love these, but I do have the MOTHER Rider from the #NSale, that is quite similar. In fact, I tried on those to compare. (I was actually headed out to an appointment, which is why I have a purse on my shoulder.)
VERDICT: I sort of like the slimmer fit better, but I decided to just wear The Rider, since I own them. I sent The Dazzler back, and now I’m on the lookout for The Dazzler in a medium indigo wash.
Italian Leather Box Shoulder Bag (Black)
at Quince // flats (8.5) // jeans (29) // sweater (S) // tee (M)
Details: Our Italian Leather Box Shoulder Bag gives you those high-end luxury feels but at a friendly and approachable price. Made from high quality Italian leather, this chic structured bag is the perfect size for essentials and is decked out with sleek interior compartments that will please type-A organizers. Bonus: the convertible strap lets you switch back and forth between shoulder or crossbody.
- 22″ strap drop when fully extended; 11″ drop when worn as a shoulder bag
- Dimensions: 6.4″ H X 9.3″ W X 2.8″ D
- Weight: 1.59lbs
Finally, I wanted to report back on that Quince box bag, after I reviewed the Sézane version a few weeks ago. Here’s a photo of both, by way of comparison:
Quince Box Bag // Sézane Milo
They definitely have different shapes, although according to their respective websites, the Sézane Milo measures 6.7″ H X 9.4″ X 1.8″ D, and the Quince Box Bag measures 6.4″ H X 9.3″ W X 2.8″ D. In looking at them both, I don’t see how that is possible, but I no longer have the Sézane to compare.
Both are made of smooth, shiny leather, and both are rather stiff and structured, which makes them awkward to get stuff in and out of. Both are made of Italian leather, but the Sézane is made in Italy, while the Quince is made in China. Both sites offer free shipping and free returns.
VERDICT: I prefer the way the strap on the Sézane is attached on the inside, rather than on top of the bag, but for the difference in price, I feel like the Quince is a much better value, so I’ve decided to keep it.
