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Fall Try-On Haul: Amazon, Ann Taylor, J.Crew & Nordstrom

Greetings, friends! I’ve decided to move my weekly try-on hauls to Saturdays.

This Fall Try-On Haul is a random mix of odds and ends I’ve ordered from various retailers. I have a few graphic tees, some sweaters, a couple of tops, a sweater dress, and jeans. #yayfall

Fall Try-On Haul: Amazon, Ann Taylor, J.Crew & Nordstrom

Fall Try-On Haul

As always, descriptions and sizing info is below the pictures. For reference, I’m 5’5″ and 140-ish, and I wear a 6 or 8 (28 or 29) in pants, usually a small in tops, and an 8 in dresses.

J.Crew Turtleneck sweater dress in supersoft yarn (size small) // I’m always on the hunt for good sweater dresses in fall and winter. I love wearing them with tights and boots to church or other events that may crop up.

This one is super soft and very luxe, and it has a nice shape to it without being clingy or body-con at all. It’s a mix of merino wool, alpaca, and stretchy stuff.

I really like the blouson sleeves, that’s a fun detail, but they also add some visual weight right there at the hip area, so it’s a trade-off.

I paired it with sock booties for this try-on, and while that’s a great option that is very on-trend at the moment, I’ll more likely wear it with black tights and tall black boots. It also comes in jade green and a pretty shade of petunia pink.

The length is perfect for me at 5’5″, and it runs TTS. I’m in the small. It’s also 25% off right now with code THATWORKS.

VERDICT: Undecided; I like it, but I feel like I might find another one later on that I like better. Or maybe it’s just too early in the season to get excited about a turtleneck sweater dress.

J.Crew “NYC” T-shirt in slub cotton (size medium) // Also from J.Crew, this NYC tee is a nice slub cotton. I’m finding J.Crew tees to run small; I had to size up to a medium in this one.

It’s thin, but not suuuuper see-through thin, and the material is a trendy slub cotton. The NYC skyline is screen-printed, but the red Manhattan script is embroidered, which is a nice touch.

I like that the crew neckline isn’t as high as some, and the sleeve length is perfect. This is what I’d call a more up-scale graphic tee, and I really like it. This is one I’d pair with a skirt if I wanted to try that trend, and I think it will be cute layered under jackets this fall, but I also just like it worn alone with jeans for casual wear.

VERDICT: Keeping! Already wore it. (This tee is, unfortunately, not included in the J.Crew sale.)

also wearing: Rag & Bone Cate raw hem skinnies and Söfft Tilton booties

R Minkoff O-Ring Buckle Leather Belt (size medium; need a large) // Finally got myself a belt! I thought this O-ring style was fun, and the leather is kind of shiny but very soft. I really like how it makes the look more finished — especially with a very casual tee.

Size-wise, I ordered a small and a medium, but I actually need a large. In this picture, I have the medium on the loosest setting.

VERDICT: Exchanging for a large.

Sub_Urban Riot Indoorsy Graphic Tee (size small) // I ordered this tee around the same time I ordered the Less Mondays More Sundays Graphic Tee from last week’s Try On Haul. I think it’s funny, and it’s very soft and comfortable. The grey is versatile too.

VERDICT: Keeping. Already wore it.

Sub_Urban Riot ‘Good Vibes’ Graphic Tee (size small) // I’ve been on a graphic tee kick lately, can you tell???

This is yet another grey tee that I ordered from Nordstrom. I like this Sub_Urban Riot brand a lot. Their tees are very soft and comfortable, and and they fit perfectly in a small.

While I like the Indoorsy concept better, I prefer the font and the word placement on this one. Alas, I do not need both, and I already wore the Indoorsy one, so this will probably go back.

If you like it, it’s 40% off today!

VERDICT: Returning, probably…

Sub_Urban Riot No Coffee No Talkee Graphic Tee (size small) // It is possible I went overboard with the graphic tees.  🙈

This one is fun too, same brand and size, but I like the black and how it’s more of an off-back than a super dark black.

VERDICT: Undecided; I like it better than the other black graphic tee, but I already wore that one, so probably returning.

J.Crew “Mon amour” graphic T-shirt (size medium) // Once again, I take a J.Crew graphic tee in a medium. This one is a nice weight, and again, the crewneck isn’t as high as some, so I feel like it’s fairly flattering. (Finding v-neck graphic tees is like finding a needle in a haystack!)

VERDICT: Returning, only because I don’t need 155 graphic tees, haha!

also wearing: Mother The Insider Cropped Flared Jeans (size 29; 30% off) or AG Prima Ankle Skinny Jeans (size 29; 33% off) and Veja Esplar Leather Sneakers (size 39)

J.Crew 1988 rollneck sweater in cotton (size small) // I had this sweater last year in the mustard yellow, and I liked it so much, I bought it this year in the pale blush. It comes in a slew of other colors, so check them out if you like it.

It fits true to size, and I feel like it’s a very flattering cut. I love the details in the knit, and the on-shoulder seaming, and the high/low hem doesn’t bother me too much because it’s subtle.  These classic styles are often excluded from J.Crew sales, but right now this one is 30% off with code THATWORKS.

STYLE TIPS: I styled this sweater two ways in the photos above — first untucked with the jeans uncuffed over a streamlined suede bootie, and then front-tucked with the jeans cuffed and snake print mules.

WHY? When I cuff the jeans, it makes my legs look shorter, so tucking the sweater also shortens the upper body, to keep a pleasing proportion. See the comparison shots here:

Also, I like the jeans cuffed with the mules, so as to show more of my ankles, which are typically the thinnest part of a woman’s leg. See the difference:

Conversely, with the booties, I kept them uncuffed and let them extend over the bootie so they create a long, lean leg line. Cuffing is okay too, but then I’d want to front-tuck the sweater.

VERDICT: Keeping!

also wearing: AG Prima Ankle Skinny Jeans (size 29; 33% off) and Vince Ridley booties (from last season, but a few sizes left at 50% off) or Splendid Hailee II Snake Embossed Western Mule (30% off)

J.Crew Long-sleeve everyday cashmere mockneck sweater in Burgundy (size small) // This sweater is gorgeous, absolutely gorgeous! And I like the shorter style that isn’t quite cropped — the perfect length for wearing with higher rise jeans. (At least, for me.)

VERDICT: It’s pricey, and not on sale, but I’m very tempted to keep it. For now, keeping tags on.

also wearing: AG Jodi Cropped Jeans (size 29; need a 30) and Club Monaco booties (old)

BP. High/Low Roll Edge Sweater (size small) // I was really impressed with the quality of this sweater when I pulled it out of the box — I don’t usually associate BP. with quality (not that it’s terrible, but it’s Nordstrom’s lowest price point and typically geared to juniors and young adults.) But this sweater feels super soft and silky. It is quite thin, though, so keep that in mind. I think I’d prefer the black.

It has a flattering ballet neckline with rolled edges and exposed seams, and I think it’s a really nice option for a lightweight sweater during this transition season.

In the pictures above, you can see it both front-tucked and untucked, and it works well both ways.

VERDICT: Returning because it’s so thin, but maybe ordering the black.

also wearing: Mother The Insider Cropped Flared Jeans (size 29; 30% off) and Vince Ridley booties (from last season, but a few sizes left at 50% off)

Caslon Dolman Sweater (size small) // This sweater is very similar to the one above, but it’s a little bit thicker. Once again, it has some nice seaming details and a flattering boatneck. I like the ballet neckline on the one above a little better, but this one is a dolman style rather than the drop shoulder, which I prefer. (I’m always a sucker for a dolman sweater!)

It’s typical Caslon quality – nice and soft, not super luxe, but a quality sweater at a good price point. I might prefer a size up for a little more drape, as shown on the Nordstrom website, but I do think it’s TTS. It also comes in black and a few other colors.

VERDICT: Keeping because it’s softer and warmer than the BP. one, and not as see-through.

Mother The Insider Cropped Flared Jeans (size 29) // Yikes, that rear view! But it is necessary. I never keep a pair of jeans without checking out the rear view.

We have analyzed these jeans up one side and down the other in my post on revisiting kick flares, but I figured they deserve their own feature in this Try-On Haul since I didn’t officially review them yet.

I do think these fit well and are fairly flattering for their intended style. I still feel a bit like Urkel wearing them… thanks to reader Heather for putting that image in my head! 🤣 They are verrrrry comfortable, I will give them that. The denim is thick and soft and stretchy but does not bag out.

You can’t go wrong with Mother denim, and they’re currently on sale. If you’ve been on the fence, now is the time to try them.

VERDICT: Undecided. For now I’m keeping the tags on.

Ann Taylor Button Cuff V-Neck Sweater in Cherry Cola (size small) // I ordered this sweater from Ann Taylor during their last sale in both burgundy and black.

The quality is really nice — the material is thick and almost heavy, if that makes sense. I love a dressier sweater like this for wearing to church and out to dinner in the fall and winter, and I also think this would make a nice work wear piece for those who need that.

I feel like the burgundy fits a tad smaller than the black. (See below.) It’s a bit snug, but not really body-con. I’m almost ready to order a medium to compare, but I never wear medium in AT sweaters, and I expect that would make it too long. I think this is how it’s supposed to fit (despite the way it looks on the model.)

The v-neckline is flattering and high enough to be modest, and the button cuff sleeves are a really nice detail. Also, the shoulder seams sit on the shoulder, thankyouverymuch! 

also wearing: Rag & Bone Cate raw hem skinnies (size 28; 30% off) and Söfft Tilton booties (I probably would wear this sweater with dressier shoes, I just happened to have these on already.)

Ann Taylor Button Cuff V-Neck Sweater in Black (size small) // As I said above, I love the quality and the styling of this sweater, I’m just a bit unsure about the fit. I do love a black sweater, and this one fits more comfortable, so…

VERDICT: Undecided; definitely keeping one or the other. I love the “Cherry Cola” color, but I wish it had a bit more wiggle room.

Oh, and FYI, right now Ann Taylor is doing a promotion where you get 40% OFF 3+ , 30% OFF 2, 20% OFF 1 full price styles with code HELLOFALL.

also wearing: Rag & Bone Cate raw hem skinnies (size 28; 30% off) and Steve Madden Flavor Flat Mules (size 8)

Chelsea28 Raw Edge Tank in Red Rumba (size small) // I ordered this tank in black, and I liked it so much I ordered it in this red and also the ivory.

It is rare for me to find a silky tank or cami that I can wear with a regular bra, and this one is PERFECTION. It will be great for layering under cardigans and moto jackets this fall, but I feel like it’s modest enough to wear alone. In fact, I wore it last night!

I rarely buy multiples, as I like each piece in my wardrobe to be unique, but this is such a great base layer for so many different looks that I felt like it was worth buying in several colors.

The price is a bit high for what it is, I will give you that, so I’ll keep the tags on until I wear them in case they go on sale.

also wearing: Rag & Bone Cate raw hem skinnies (size 28; 30% off) and Vince Camuto Kimora Cutout Shield Sandals (size 7.5)

Chelsea28 Raw Edge Tank in Black (size small) // Here you can see how I would style the black one for a date night look.

Fit-wise, the small just fits me, it’s a tad snug across the bust, but I think the medium would be too big under the arms, so I’m keeping the smalls.

VERDICT: Keeping both.

also wearing: AG Angel Bootcut Jeans in 17 Years Ceaseless Destructed (size 28) and Sam Edelman Hazel Pumps (size 8) with Sam Edelman Lambskin Leather Moto Jacket (size small; 33% off)

AG Angel Bootcut Jeans in 17 Years Ceaseless Destructed (size 28) // I bought these last year, featured them in this Try-On Haul, and wore them for one post, but they were too long.

I finally got them hemmed!!! YAY ME! (I took them to Nordstrom, and they retained the original hem, so I don’t lose any of the character.)

Unfortunately, they may still be a little too long. OOPS! I thought I brought these shoes with me, but maybe I brought a pair with a heel that’s 1/2″ higher. Anyway, I will be wearing them mostly with boots, but I do like a good bootcut and pump combo. Maybe I’ll put them through the dryer one time and see if that does the trick. (I normally do not dry my jeans.)

Vince Camuto Rumpled Satin Blouse in Dark Willow (size small) // I thought this would be another nice piece for wearing alone or layering under a moto jacket. I don’t think it’s as flattering as the Chelsea28 tank, but it’s a nice option to have. I love this dark willow color, but it comes in at least 10 other great colors, and it is true to size.

I showed it above both front-tucked and untucked, and also with the brown jacket as an option for a layering piece.

VERDICT: Keeping.

also wearing: Rag & Bone Cate raw hem skinnies (size 28; 30% off) and Louise et Cie Karas Pointy Toe Mule Pumps (size 8.5) with Sam Edelman Lambskin Leather Moto Jacket (size small; 33% off)

Daily Ritual 100% Cotton Chunky Long-Sleeve Crew Sweater in Olive (size small) // This sweater seems like nice quality for the price point; it’s thick and heavy and has a nice feel to it. I like the side slits and chunky knit ribbing at the cuffs and hem, but it’s just not very flattering on me. It’s bulky and adds visual weight.

It comes in a ton of colors, so if you like it, be sure to take a look! It’s very good quality for $29. While I’d say it runs true to size, you may want to size up for a slouchier fit.

VERDICT: Returning; I can do better, but I think it would be nice for a different body type.

also wearing: Rag & Bone Cate raw hem skinnies (size 28; 30% off) and Steve Madden Flavor Flat Mules (size 8)

Daily Ritual Women’s 100% Cotton Mock-Neck Sweater in Lilac (size small) // Now, this I like a lot better. It’s a thinner knit, and it has a really nice feel to it. It’s lightweight so perfect for wearing right now (for those of us experiencing fall.) It still has some nice details, but it’s not as bulky.

It also comes in tons of colors, and for $29, I think it’s a great value.

VERDICT: Undecided; I like it, but don’t really need it.

also wearing: Rag & Bone Cate raw hem skinnies (size 28; 30% off) and Steve Madden Flavor Flat Mules (size 8)

Daily Ritual Women’s Lightweight Tie-Front Cardigan in Burgundy (size small) // This sweater is fun and different… remember when this style was all the rage??? It’s lightweight and has a nice slub texture to it — great for those in warmer climates. And this color is really pretty.

I’m undecided about the style, though, as it was very trendy at one point and now isn’t really something you see at all. Unless some of you are seeing it where you are? Is it coming back?

It’s true to size and a decent value for $34.

VERDICT: Returning; I can’t get excited about this style right yet.

also wearing: J.Crew NYC T-shirt with Mother Looker Looker Ankle Fray Skinny Jeans (size 29) and Steve Madden Flavor Flat Mules (size 8)

Caslon Open Front Pocket Cardigan in Beige Oatmeal (size small) // And we’re back to Caslon again! This is a cozy open-front cardigan with some nice ribbed details at the cuffs and hem. The pockets are placed well, and I like this shorter length for wearing under coats all winter long

It’s not exactly voluminous, but it’s not terribly flattering either. I think it’s due to the drop shoulder. This cardigan runs true to size and comes in some nice color choices.

VERDICT: Returning — the drop shoulders seal the deal. Maybe if the seams were on the shoulder, it would be more flattering overall.

also wearing: J.Crew NYC T-shirt with Mother Looker Looker Ankle Fray Skinny Jeans (size 29) and Steve Madden Flavor Flat Mules (size 8)

R Minkoff Kate Soft Tote // This is a random add-on here at the end, but this bag just came yesterday and I was dying to try it out. I’ve had my eye on this bag, and then R Minkoff started a Buy More, Save More Sale so I snagged it.

I really like the super soft leather and how it stands on its own. It’s leather lined on the inside too, and has a pocket on the side that can hold a water bottle or your cell phone. The strap drop is perfect for throwing over your shoulder and accessing the contents with one strap still on the shoulder.

But in looking at these pictures, it is verrrrry large. Which I like for practical use, but does it look too big? I mean, I like big bags… #icannotlie

So, yeah… I’m still a bit undecided on this one. See all my R Minkoff Sale Favorites.

also wearing: J.Crew NYC T-shirt with Mother Looker Looker Ankle Fray Skinny Jeans (size 29) and Vince Blair Snake-Print Sneakers (size 7.5)

Anthro Sale!

Also, Anthropologie is running a 20% off sale for all Anthroperks members (it is free to join.)

A few items from last week’s Try-On Haul are included…

Anthropologie Ethan Camo Sweater (size small) // This is a gorgeous sweater, very soft and comfortable, and I love the color palette. I’ve tried it with a few other denim options this week, and I’ve decided to keep it — although I might reach out about a price adjustment.

also wearing: AG legging ankle jeans with similar espadrilles

T.La Vicky Thermal Waffle Tunic (size small) // I really like this waffle tunic for the in-between weather we’re experiencing right now. I kept the terra cotta, and I’ve already worn it once this week.

I’m also sorely tempted by this Oui Tee — did I tell you that Paul and I are planning a trip to Paris for our 25th wedding anniversary next year?!? #mustresist #graphicteeoverload

Also, the Anthro sale includes premium denim brands like Mother, AG, Paige, Citizens, and more.

Whew! And that’s a wrap.

I hope you all enjoy the rest of your weekend. It’s a gorgeous one here.

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32 Responses

  1. Wow! Lots to think about (although I am trying not to buy too much right now, but I am thinking about a few sale items.) I love a big bag, but I think that one looks too big. I tried to go with a small bag for awhile, but I just didn’t have enough room for what I need to carry every day. Looks like we are getting a bonus week here in New Hampshire with warm, sunny weather. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

  2. I love your try on hauls, not only for the pieces you choose, but for the learning that occurs as you evaluate each item. I still don’t pause and critique everything as I should. Thank you for the reminder. 

    1. Agree with Deb. Love the critiquing of details of each item. Gives me more to think about when I’m buying. I’m doing so much better in my purchases because of it.

  3. I’ve had my eye on that Chelsea28 tank for a while now. Thanks for the sizing info-Now I feel more confident ordering a small. Just waiting for it to go on sale!

  4. You look like a million bucks in those rag and bone ankle skinnies! Really, amazing!

    Also, I bought the Kut cigarette jeans you recommended and love them! But how are we going to style/be able to wear these shorter hems with true winter weather? I can’t have any skin showing whatsoever where I live! Skinnies are easy bc you just have your tall winter boot over the leg. I’d love to know your thoughts on this. 

    Also, can you point me to the post where you have the perfect pair of dark bootcut jeans? I don’t even remember the brand you loved, but I’d like one pair of super nice bootcuts for heels. 
    Thank you!

    1. You can wear socks with booties and those Kut cigarette jeans as long as the color blends into the bootie or the jeans. It’s ok if a little bit shows – you will want to cuff the jeans to just hit the top of the bootie. I’ll play with it and try to show some examples, but that is basically what I did with skinny jeans and ankle boots the past few years.

      For a dark wash bootcut, this Wit & Wisdom pair is good – https://shopstyle.it/l/8fYS

      And this Paige pair is 40% off – https://shopstyle.it/l/8fWW

      This is the AG pair I’m wearing in this post in a darker wash – https://shopstyle.it/l/8fY2

  5. Another great post! I especially appreciate the side-by-side photos of jeans and shoes. I really am learning a lot from you.

  6. I love all of your fall shoe choices and have a question. If you had to stand on your feet all day what pair would you choose?  I work part time at a trendy little gift shop and am looking for stylish comfort. 

  7. Wow another great try on haul.. seems like sizing theses days is all over the place.. I did buy two of the same silky tank tops at banana republic as they were perfect alone or as layering pieces .. I’ve been on a real cardigan and tank kick lately. Probably because I’ve been able to find cardigans with no wool( as I can’t wear wool) and last year that’s all I seemed to find. Now this weekend we are back to fight 70’s low 80’s… beautiful here. Off to the market in search of mums and maybe a pumpkin 🎃 
    Happy weekend 

  8. Loved everything except the black turtleneck dress. Wish I could find bootcut jeans that are that long for me. Always have problems in the jeans department.

  9. Thanks again for another great try on haul. This is my fav kind of post.  I’m liking the Urkel (sorry, not sorry) jeans better with this outfit. The booties work better, at least to my eye. Still not running out to try them but this look wasn’t bugging me as much as the striped sweater/slides combo.  Since you’re asking, the bag looks like lovely leather and there’s so much of it.😉  I thought it was big before I read your comment. Of course, if it fits your needs & wishes, pay me no never mind. I love the JCrew sweater. I’m trying to be good this month, I mean is only 30 days, we shall see. I don’t need another cute sweater. Also like the Anthro camo sweater. It’s the color-combo with black jeans that I dig. It’s a bit pricey even on sale for what use I’d probably get out of it. Definitely nicest camo I’ve seen. Ahhh, so many fun things. Have a wonderful weekend. BTW, thanks for always encouraging and being receptive to your readers input. It is one of the things I value most in your posts and sets you above the others, in my humble opinion. 

  10. These posts are so much fun to read & helpful as well. You do a nice job of explaining what you like & don’t like about each piece. I  actually have the Amazon cardigan that ties at the waist (you were wearing the burgundy one). I purchased it in the olive color after seeing it on another blog. It works well in hot climates (we’ve still been hitting upper 90’s + in Arkansas) because it’s thin but provides a little coverage in freezing cold buildings.  I am not completely used to the style & how it looks on me, so I’ve only worn it a few times with t-shirts underneath. It’s cute though & functional for where I live. 

  11. I love the Chelsea red tank outfit and the AG bootcut flared hem outfit combo. You look gorgeous and chic in both. I remember you trying those bootcut on before and I don’t know why I didn’t order a pair to try. I’m definitely going to now as I love the look of a bootcut (especially with a little bit of flare at the hem) 

    Urkle….🤣😂 …… Seriously though, those AG cropped flares fit you well in front and from the rear view too, but they just don’t seem like your style. I just can’t see past the “waiting for a flood” look. 😬 Sorry…..it’s just my opinion though and I really believe that we should wear what makes us feel good. 

    The outfits I DID like when you wore cropped flares were: the white cropped flares and the cropped flares with sandals and a tee. 💜

  12. WOW!! Your try on hauls go on forever. But I Love It!! I would seriously go broke if I got every thing I wanted!! Haha!😂 Everything is Gorgeous!! Love your Blog!! Always look forward to it!! Thank You!! Have a Great Weekend!!

  13. Wow! Both the burgundy Ann Taylor sweater and the burgundy cashmere look amazing on you. I think that just might be your color!!!

  14. You are a bad influence. Lol. Since we are almost identical height and weight if I see something I like on you I jump all over it. You “ sold” me the graphic NYC tee, the belt ( Thaks for the tip about the large) and the leather jacket! 

  15. I always enjoy your try-ons!
    I have the Mon Amour navy J Crew tee. It’s my new favorite top. It’s perfect for fall in Texas. I agree that J Crew tees often run small; I sized up to a Medium in that one.

    The NYC tee is really special. It looks great with jeans, and under a cardigan or jacket. I’m really tempted!

  16. I like all the clothes shown today, of course more some than others. The graphic tees are right up my alley here in S Texas where at 94 today with equal humidity it disgusting and no where close to sweater weather. I love the shoe choices but I just can’t wear those mules. At a size 9 1/2 they look like boats on me and not flattering. I’ve never been to Paris but so fun to start thinking now about what you will be wearing. i can’t wait for that post.

  17. What an amazing post! Your side-by-side pictures with commentary are so informative and helpful. You don’t normally wear belts and I think you should. I can’t get over how much the belt added to your outfit! Thank you and I hope that you have a wonderful weekend.

  18. House Hunters is my all time favorite too.  I record them all the time.  At work on my break everyone knew they could find me watching House Hunters in our break room. Love love HGTV. Carla

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