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Fall Try-On Haul: Shoes, Tops & Dresses

Greetings and salutations! It’s time for my weekly try-on haul. This one is chock full of fall shoes (mostly snake print) #sorrynotsorry, as well as a smattering of tops and dresses.

FALL TRY-ON HAUL: SHOES, TOPS & DRESSES

The usual disclaimers apply — I’m 5’5″ with a slightly hourglass shape, and I usually wear small tops and a 6 or 8 in pants. My average dress size is an 8, but depending on the brand, I have everything in my closet from 4 to 12. #vanitysizingisreal

Try-On Haul: Fall Tops

Let’s start with tops! Links and descriptions are below the pictures, and I’m also sharing whether I kept or returned each item.

J.Crew Leopard Teddie sweater (size small) // I had last year’s version of this sweater, and I loved it. I wore it a ton — both alone and as a base layer with my leather jacket — and I can see myself doing the same with this one.

Besides the print, I really like the fit and feel of this sweater. It is form-fitting without being clingy, and it’s nice and soft. It’s also a great price!

VERDICT: keeping

(If you’re wondering why I’m keeping this when I have last year’s similar one, it’s because people like it when I can link to the exact item I’m wearing; and I really like this year’s print!)

Lucky Brand Crew Neck Camo Tee (size small) // This tee is wonderfully soft and thin (but not too thin.) I wanted to love it, but the crewneck just doesn’t do anything for me. I know some of you love crewnecks, so if you’re a fan of crewnecks and camo, this one may be for you!

VERDICT: returning

Gibson x Living in Yellow City Safari Scalloped V-Neck Tank (size small) // I liked this top so much when I saw Cyndi style it that I ordered one for myself… along with the halter version below.

Pros: The print is gorgeous, the scalloped v-neck adds interest and is a modest cut, and it pairs nicely with white or black pants (and blue jeans too.)

Cons: The material is a bit stiff. I’d like it more if it had a better drape.

VERDICT: I’m holding onto this one for a while to see if I end up reaching for it; I always keep tags on until I wear things for the first time.

also wearing: BlankNYC moto with black skinnies and Vince Camuto Kaisley peep toe sandals

Gibson x City Safari Tara Gibson Halter Top (size small) // The same pretty print, but it fits really weirdly around the bust and arm openings.

VERDICT: returning

James Perse Women’s Deep V-Neck Tee (size 2) // I’m always on the lookout for a good classic white tee, and they aren’t as easy to find as one might think. After seeing James Perse tees touted as some of the best by several fashion bloggers I follow, I decided to see what all the fuss is about. Happily, I found one on sale at Nordstrom Rack! (It’s also on Amazon.)

In a nutshell: I LOVE THIS TEE. The fabric has that trendy slub texture, and it’s thin but not so thin that it’s see-through. It also has a great drape through the midsection.

The scoopneck is flattering, and while it’s borderline too low, I think it will be okay after the first washing. It has a straight hemline and no boob pocket. Also, the sleeve length is just right. It is perfect for layering or wearing alone. I have it layered under a cardigan here…

VERDICT: keeping! I’ve already worn it twice. Totally on the James Perse bandwagon now. I just hope I don’t end up wishing I’d sized up to a 3 after I wash it. I’ll keep you posted.

also wearing: Madewell Ryder summer cardi with grey AG legging ankle jeans, Jeffrey Campbell Rowlan booties, and Lucky Brand coin collar necklace

Free People Sienna Snap Cuff Cotton Blend Tee (size small) // This top was a discovery from my Facebook Group, and it’s a really nice piece for fall and transition season because it’s so lightweight. I love the details and the wide v-neck.

Typical for Free People, it runs quite large, so you may want to size down if you don’t want this much drape. It also comes in nice shades of blue, green, red, and white. I was undecided between this black, the red, and the army green. I also love it in white, but I fear that would be too sheer.

VERDICT: I’m debating trying the x-small before making a final decision… also debating a different color.

also wearing: Caslon Crop Utility Pants (highly recommend; size down if in between)

Try-On Haul: Fall Dresses & Skirts

Leith Cap Sleeve Floral Midi Dress size M // This dress has potential, but I think they cut corners to keep it in the price range they watch, so the fit is a little off. If they put in a zipper, it could be more fitted, which would make it more flattering.

I actually like it better from the rear than I do from the front. Because it’s not so fitted, it doesn’t make my hips look quite as wide in proportion to my waist, as the more fitted dresses do. (Keep scrolling to see what I mean.)

The pattern is kind of fun, and I like that faux wrap skirt the asymmetrical hem, so it could be a nice piece for someone. I’m wearing the medium, for size reference.

VERDICT: returning

also wearing: Madewell Addie mules

Boden Penny Jersey Dress (size 8) // I know I shared these last week, but I wanted to show you more angles and give a more detailed review of each.

This dress is similar to their summer one that I loved so much — it has that same fit through the waist and skirt, which is very flattering (at least on me!) It comes in another fun pattern as well as two solids, and the material is substantial.

These would make great work wear dresses, although I wouldn’t wear it with the nude pumps. I feel like it needs a bootie or suede round toe pump.

VERDICT: debating one of the other colors; I don’t have the right footwear for this one, although I like the navy and saffron.

Boden Tilly Ottoman Dress (size 8) // I think this dress is soooo super flattering, and I love the extra length and the back zip details. (Mine isn’t quite zipped up so you’re seeing a little of the contrasting lining.)

The material is so thick and gorgeous, really nice quality. Again, I don’t like my shoes with this; I’d rather see a blockier suede pump or some type of bootie.

VERDICT: Probably returning. While I love it, I don’t think it’s as practical for my life as the other two.

Boden Jasmine Ottoman Dress in Conker size 8 // This is my favorite of the three. It fits like it was made for me, and I think the styling is a lot more practical for my purposes. I would mainly wear this to church, or maybe to a show or something like that.

It would make a nice work wear dress, too, for those of you who work in a school or office setting.

VERDICT: Undecided; I ordered the black to try, and I also want to try this rust with my cognac suede booties before I make up my mind.

also wearing: Sam Edelman Hiltin boots

Boden Jasmine Ottoman Dress in Black size 8 // After I got the rust, I decided I might like it better in a classic black. I like this one too, but the rust is definitely fun for fall. Because of the 3/4 sleeves, I’m not sure I’d wear this all winter anyway, so maybe the rust is the better choice.

VERDICT: Undecided… but definitely keeping one of these. Which gets your vote? Rust or black?

also wearing: Halogen Abbi booties (see more below)

Boden Opal Dress size 8 // This is pretty, and it’s a really neat sweater material that is also fully lined. Again, very nice quality. I just don’t feel it flatters me, and I dno’t have the shoes I’d want with it, plus it’s pretty pricey.

As an aside, isn’t it interesting what a difference footwear makes with an outfit? I think the sweater dress above would be gorgeous with blush pumps — like these in the mauve leather.

I actually had them and returned them because I thought they were too spring/summer and I was afraid I wouldn’t wear them. I’m rethinking that now.

VERDICT: returning, but I think it would be nice on someone.

WHBM Stretch-Satin Sheath Dress size 6 // This dress is made of a nice, thick black satin, and it’s stretch so very comfortable. I think the neckline is super pretty too. It’s simple, but if I hadn’t found the Eliza J side drape sheath for the wedding I’m attending in October, I probably would have kept this one.

VERDICT: returning, but only b/c I don’t need it.

also wearing: Stuart Weitzman Nudistsong sandals (60% off)

WHBM Metallic Draped-Neck Shift Dress size 8 // I think this would be perfect for New Year’s Eve, or perhaps for a wedding in Vegas. (I actually have a friend who just wore something almost identical to this to a Vegas wedding.)

It’s a little much for the wedding I’m attending, but it’s super cute on, and it’s nice quality. I appreciate the weighted cowl neck, and it skims the body nicely.

VERDICT: returning, but only b/c I don’t need it.

AQUA Midi Slip Skirt (size medium) // These silky midi slip skirts are trending right now, and this gorgeous leopard print caught my eye. Unfortunately, the medium was snug on me, so I’ll need to try it again in a large.

My biggest challenge is with how to style these skirts. Most girls are tucking in their tops, but that’s not my best look. I tried it with a traditional v-neck cashmere sweater (above) and I don’t love it… but maybe I should try again with shoes.

VERDICT: exchanging for a large

Try-On Haul: Fall Shoes

I’ve been on a bit of a snake print kick lately . . . pardon the pun! One of the girls in my Facebook Group shared some snake print sneakers she purchased, which sent me on a hunt for a pair of my own.

I originally set out to find a less expensive pair, but I ended up at my local Nordstrom last week and spotted this Vince pair, and I couldn’t resist trying them.

Vince Blair 5 Slip-On Sneaker size 8 // These shoes are insanely comfortable, they’re fully leather lined, and just so luxe. I have narrow heels, and they slip a bit, but not so much that I’m walking out of them.

I like the lower vamp (they don’t come up as high on my foot as the other two, which is generally more slimming) but I’m not crazy about the warm neutral tones. I wear a lot of grey and cool colors, and I’d prefer a pair with cooler color tones.

VERDICT: Undecided. Love the comfort, don’t love the price tag, and the color is holding me back. I’m afraid I won’t get a very good cost per wear out of them.

also wearing: Vince Camuto denim jacket, Splendid Kate tee, and AG black skinnies with Rag & Bone Camden shopper

Steve Madden Gills Platform Slip-On Sneaker in Taupe Snake size 8 // These also have warmer tones, but there’s not quite as much contrast as the Vince pair — which I like. For the price point, they’re comfortable enough.

Unfortunately, I ordered them a half size too small, and when I re-ordered the 8 1/2, I somehow ordered a different color.

also wearing: Paige Mayslie cargo jogger pants and Bobeau side tie tee (40% off) with Everlane The Day Market Tote

Steve Madden Gills in Natural Snake size 8.5 // So in theory, I like this color palette better, but I don’t like the print as much. It looks like two big diamonds on top rather than an all-over print.

And they look kind of clunky on my feet. I guess it’s the platform, but I don’t feel the taupe snake looks quite as clunky, and I like that pattern better.

VERDICT: Undecided, but I think the Maddens are a good purchase if I’m not going to wear snake print sneakers a ton.

also wearing: James Perse tee (60% off!) with AG Prima skinnies

Kate Spade New York Ginger Platform Sneakers size 8 // So these… I love the color palette and the pattern to the snake print, and they have a more luxe look than the Maddens, for sure.

But.

You knew there was a but coming, didn’t you??

These shoes are NOT comfortable — they cut into the sides of my foot — and they also have a really high vamp, which I feel makes them look a bit clunky on my thin, flat feet. I should wear them around the house a bit and see if they loosen up at all, but for this price, I want to really love them, so I’ve just been letting them sit and stare at me.

VERDICT: I think I’m going to return them all and order the Steve Madden in Taupe Snake in the right size. At least that way, if I don’t end up wearing them a ton, I won’t be out a chunk of change.

Steve Madden Feather Loafer Flats size 8 // I also ordered these loafers and the mules below. #snakeobsessed

The quality is what you’d expect from Steve Madden. For a trendy shoe, I think it’s a good value. I recommend sizing up half, though, to accommodate the pointy toe.

VERDICT: exchanging for an 8.5

Steve Madden Flavor Flat Mules size 8 // Same story here — decent quality for the price point, cute shoes, on trend, and fairly walkable. I mean, I wouldn’t wear them to the mall all day or anything, but they stay on my feet.

VERDICT: Returning — only because a girl can only wear many snake print shoes, and I like the subtle colors in the loafers better than the mules. Also, the loafers are more walkable.

also wearing: Rag & Bone Dre ankle boyfriend jeans

Splendid Hailee II Snake Embossed Western Mules size 8 // Okay, last pair of snake print shoes . . . I promise! (Today, anyway. Ha!)

Splendid Hailee II Snake Embossed Western Mule

These mules are surprisingly comfortable, nice quality, very walkable, and I really like the print. The price is high for a shoe you can only wear in the fall, but I’d say it’s on par with the quality.

VERDICT: undecided. I need to try them on with more outfits and figure out how much I’d really wear them.

also wearing: James Perse tee (60% off!) with AG Prima skinnies

Halogen Abbi Block Heel Booties size 8 // Finally, these are the booties I tried on with the black Boden dress above. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly sock bootie that doesn’t have a super skinny shaft, these are a great option.

The 2 3/4″ block heel is very walkable, and they have a flattering shape throughout. The quality isn’t the best, but for sale price, they’re a good value.

VERDICT: I already have sock booties that I love, so I probably won’t keep these for my personal closet, but I wanted to find a pair I can recommend to those looking for this style. I expect they’re going to sell out since they’re on sale, so if you like them, I would grab them now.

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41 Responses

  1. I LOVE the animal print slip skirt and the black cashmere sweater look on you! Pair it with some black boots and your good to go. Very elevated and classic look made current with the print. It’s a keeper…. Especially for a date night.

  2. JSlides Karla snake print are super cute and comfy. They are on sale listed at 69.00. Then an additional 40% with listed code on site. Free shipping.

  3. I like above knee dresses on you best. Love snake print shoes but feel they are limiting. Great post. Ready to put summer away but another month here.

  4. Whew, that’s a lotta trying on!  I think those Boden dresses are made for you. Great choices. Still can’t bring myself to get snake print anything, LOL!  And it’s not like I didn’t grow up in the country by a farm or anything, they just freak me out!  But you’ve shown a lot of great choices for those that do like the print. 

  5. I’m looking for your opinion, I bought loft high waisted jeans and am undecided about them.  I am short waisted and petite. They fit great, but not sure how I feel about the high waisted trend.  Thanks

  6. Great try on haul I might try that white tee and the long sleeve leopard sweater. Cute things! I like the leopard mules with the little heel the best I think. Super cute!

  7. Great try-on haul post!  It’s a good thing I am doing the no clothes buying September challenge that Brenda put out because there are a few things I would be spending money on.  I think the rust color dress would be a nice change for you, and you look very nice in that color.  I’m with you on how some of the snake print shoes look more like diamonds on top.  I don’t need that much of a reminder of the diamond back rattle snakes.  I have found that if my shoes slide the least little bit on my heels, I will end up with blisters very quickly, so I am adding some mules to my closet.  Have a fabulous day!

  8. Lots of great looks! The leopard print midi skirt looks great on you and love the black Boden dress as well, but the rust color is so pretty too. Good luck deciding!! They are such a great fit too!

  9. I love the rust color dress on you over the black plus I think it’s just a fun color for fall. I was hoping to see what cognac wedge booties you were thinking of pairing it with but the link provided directs to the tall black boots.

  10. So many cute things! Most of which I would never have a chance to wear in Southern CA, so it’s fun to live vicariously through your try-ons. I was on the fence about snakeskin print, but eventually bought a pair of Mark Jacobs sandals, and I love them and wear them all the time! So much so, that I bought snakeskin sneaks, too. For those that want to really save a penny but want to try the trend, I got the Topshop Cola sneaker – it’s a lace up, and only $32 at Nordstroms.

  11. Lots of ssssss-nake shoe choices.  Ha.  Not a look that’s for me but love them on you and others.   

    As far as the Boden dress – definitely keep the rust!   But I agree needs different color boots.  

    Have a blessed day!  

  12. Love the try on sessions . I think I’m being sold more and more on a snake print sneaker.. lol . I do like the leopard print skirt with the black sweater… the dress in rust is nice but I always seem to lean towards black and you would be able to wear much longer in the season…
    Have a good one

  13. Thanks for this. I like the Boden Jasmine Ottoman dress, might buy it myself. I need a black dress, but I do find black dresses difficult. Black looks harsh on me. But the same dress in navy, at least online, looks like a very light navy, which I don’t find dressy enough for the evening. 
    You MUST get that animal print skirt and wear it with the black V neck sweater. It looks fantastic, so so classy. I know what you mean about skirts though – I used to like them, but now with three little kids, I find them too fussy, I am forever adjusting my top, and I prefer dresses if I want to dress up a little. But it looks so lovely on you, and you could definitely wear it out in the evening too, with some killer heels. GET IT!!!!

      1. Lol, I don’t mean to come across bossy. I just love that look on you. I live in the UK, near London, and lots of ladies are wearing this style. I wish I could, but as I said, with little kids it’s not practical. 

  14. My vote is for the rust dress. I really like the color and I don’t see it often. Are the Steve Madden platform sneakers heavy? Also how is the comfort? I was thinking about getting a pair in black. Thanks.

  15. I would suggest trying the brand Naturalizer if you are looking for a lighter colored snake print sneaker. Their print is in the white/gray/black tones and they have several styles available. I purchased the “Macayla” style and I love them!!

  16. Definitely think you should get the rust dress. The color is trending and it looked amazing on you. Great post today! 

  17. LOOOOOVE the leopard skirt! I just got back from Europe, and all the fashionable ladies there were wearing similar skirts with graphic tees, often knotted in front or to the side, with sandals or white sneaks. So cute! I’m not big on snake print, but shoes are a great place to slip in a trend so I just ordered a pair by MIA from Nordstrom Rack and can’t wait to try them. OH, and I ordered your FP top from Macy’s this morning on sale for about $46– they were fully stocked at that time. Thanks for the great post! Hauls are my fave 🙂

  18. I think the light grey slip on snake tennis shoes look too summery. I think it is a good idea to order the color you like the most in those in the correct size.

    I love the midi skirt on you! I want to see you style it! It is my favorite thing on this post.

    Thanks for all your hard work!

  19. I vote for keeping the RUST colored Boden dress! It’s color is so unique and the contrast with your dark hair is great!
    I also like the black & white animal print skirt.  I think the black top you have on with it that is not tucked in looks absolutely fine .

  20. Love the Boden dresses – both black and rust look terrific…. But the rust is less expected, more seasonal, leaning towards that one. That leopard skirt is a keeper! Love your try on sessions!! That was a fun post! Warming up sssslowly to snakeskin print 😂
    Shoes are a great option to lean into slowly.

  21. Hi – the black over the rust dress.
    Btw the silky slip skirt looked perfect with the black cashmere. The top was  the perfect length – a useful and comfy outfit to have especially with long boots or ankle boots! 👍 all the best Jane

  22. So many cute things! Go for the rust!! It looks awesome on you! I love the striped dress. I think it’s a bit long for you though and if the hem stopped at the navy (or is it black) line at the bottom it would be awesome for you, in my non-fashionista humble opinion. LOL.

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