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February 2020 Try-On Haul: Nordstrom, LOFT & GAP

Happy February 1st, my friends! We made it through the longest month of the year! Well, March is yet to come, but at least we’ve made it through one of the two longest months of the year.

Yesterday I shared Part One of a Two-Part Try-On Haul, and today I’m back with a smattering of items I tried on at the mall on Thursday. I shopped at LOFT, GAP, and Nordstrom.

Side Note: The mirrors in all 3 stores were disgusting. I’m seriously going to have to get some Windex wipes to keep in my car and start bringing them with me into the mall.

In the past, I’ve tried to photoshop out some of the gunk, but that is tedious and time consuming, and this post is going up late enough, so it is what it is.

Try-On Haul: Nordstrom

I usually park and enter the mall through Nordstrom, so I often end up shopping here first.

My purpose for shopping at Nordstrom on Thursday was to try a few new pairs of jeans… my size 29s are getting loose, so I wanted to see how the size 28 fit in my favorite style — the AG Farrah.

I ended up trying some other denim styles too, and of course I got sidetracked by some cute sweaters. What can I say, I’m nothing if not predictable…

AG The Farrah High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans in 10 Years Illustrated (size 28) // If you’ve hung around these parts for very long, you know that AG is my go-to brand when it comes to jeans. My current favorites are the AG Farrah high waist ankle skinnies. Most have around a 10″ rise, which is my sweet spot.

This pair is everything that I love about this brand — great fit, perfect pocket placement, a gorgeous mid-indigo wash, just the right amount of distressing, and nice attention to detail. I love the slightly chewed hems on this particular wash; they add a nice element of interest and keep the jeans ultra casual.

These jeans run TTS, but I’ve recently lost some weight, and the 28 is a better fit for me now. They’re snug, but I expect to continue to see changes in my body due to intermittent fasting, even if I don’t lose any more weight, so I decided to bring them home.

I don’t normally recommend paying full price for premium denim (or anything that goes on sale with any regularity) but I know I’ll get my cost per wear out of these.

These are a true denim — 98% cotton and only 2% polyurethane. This is my favorite fabric composition for jeans. It keeps them nice and stiff and denimy (yes I made that up that word) with just enough stretch to be comfortable and allow them to mold to your body.

also wearing: ALLSAINTS Emelyn Tonic Tee and Veja Esplar sneakers

AG The Prima Ankle Cigarette Jeans in Blue Above (size 28) // You may remember the AG Prima jeans that were so popular during the #NSale last summer… this is the same style but in a dark wash.

I grabbed them just for the heck of it, and I ended up loving them! Even the sales associate was impressed by the fit of these — and she kept remarking how perfect they looked with my Veja sneakers. Funny, I would never have thought to wear them together, but they really do work.

The wash is so dark, it almost looks black, but I like it for a change. And I’m surprised that I like the ankle length in a cigarette style jean, but I do.

My only complaint with these is the lower rise — they’re listed as having a 9 1/2″ front rise, but it felt lower to me. I will have to play around with them and see what outfits they can make before deciding to keep or not.

Also, the material on these is different than the AG Farrah — it’s softer and has more stretch due to the different fabric composition: 91% cotton, 8% polyester, 1% polyurethane.

also wearing: Chelsea28 cowl neck sweater in Pink Shock Combo with Veja Esplar sneakers

AG Mari High Waist Slim Straight Leg Jeans (size 28) // These weren’t my favorites in the store, but I actually kind of like the looks of them in these pictures. They’re also that softer denim, and they feel a little lighter than the Prima, but the fabric is the same 91% cotton, 8% polyester, 1% polyurethane.

These actually felt a little big, although they look okay in these pictures. I’ve never been a size 27 a day in my life, so I’m going to assume the 28 is the right size and they’re supposed to have a slightly looser feel.

They’re designed to be a straight fit that ends right above the ankle, but they’re a little longer than that on my 5’5″ frame. For some reason, there are no inseam or rise measurements listed on the site, but the rise is definitely higher than the Prima.

also wearing: Reformation Cashmere Blend Sweater in Camel (size M) with Veja Esplar sneakers

Good American Good Curve High Waist Ripped Crop Skinny Jeans (size 6) // I think this is the right link to these jeans, I had a hard time finding them online. I try to take pictures of the tags of everything I try on when I’m in the dressing room, but invariably I forget one or two… and these are one of those that I forgot!

I have some longer Good American jeans that I like, so when I saw these, I grabbed them to try. They’re just okay for me. I don’t love or hate them, and honestly, I can’t remember much about them. I should have taken notes. At any rate, I didn’t bring them home with me.

For anyone comparing, their measurements are 27″ regular inseam, 11″ leg opening, 12″ front rise; and the fabric is 98% cotton, 2% elastane.

Oh, wait… It is coming back to me! I did not like the 12″ rise — it’s too high and sits above my belly pooch, making it pooch out even more when I sit down or bend over. Otherwise, the fit is pretty good.

also wearing: Chelsea28 cowl neck sweater in Pink Shock Combo (size S) with Veja Esplar sneakers

ALLSAINTS Emelyn Tonic Tee in Grey Marl (size S and M) // I happened to notice this tee hanging on a rack in the denim department, so I grabbed it to try. I’m always on the lookout for a good v-neck tee.

This one is the perfect weight — not too thick, not too thin, and I love the shape of the v-neckline. Again, not too deep, not too short, and the raw edge is a fun detail.

It’s 100% cotton, and it’s a little thicker than most of my tees, so it doesn’t have a great drape, but I think it will be nice for layering under denim jackets.

I tried the small and the medium to compare — I’m wearing the small on the left and the medium on the right.

I went with the small, but I’m second guessing myself. It fits perfectly now, but if it shrinks, I may wish I had the medium.

also wearing: AG The Prima Ankle Cigarette Jeans with Veja Esplar sneakers

Treasure & Bond Plaid Boyfriend Shirt in Grey Brigid Plaid (size S) // I rarely wear button-down shirts, but this one was so soft, I had to try it. I’m really impressed. It feels a lot like the pricier Rails plaids.

It’s 85% rayon, 15% acrylic for those who are paying attention to fabric content, and it can be washed and dried.

I like the relaxed, slightly oversized fit, although I wish it wasn’t longer in the back than it is in the front. It’s definitely TTS or runs a little big — the small fits me with plenty of room, and I usually wear M in Rails.

also wearing: AG The Farrah High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans with Veja Esplar sneakers

Reformation Cashmere Blend Sweater in Ali Stripe (size L) // This sweater also caught my eye, but they only had sizes L and XL left, so I tried the large, and I took some other Reformation sweaters to the dressing room for size comparison.

I’ve heard a lot about the Reformation brand lately, but this is the first piece I’ve tried. They’re a brand that is committed to sustainability, and they also pride themselves on excellent fit.

I was surprised that I actually like how this sweater fit in the large — even the sales associate helping me was amazed. It’s designed to be a bit cropped (21″ length) and to fit closer to the body, but I like the relaxed fit of the large. That said, it’s kind of big in the shoulders. I’d like to try the medium, but it’s sold out online.

These colors are really nice for heading into spring, and the sweater is very lightweight, so it would make a nice transition piece for those of us living in colder climates. It also comes in a bunch of solids, if you’re interested.

FYI, fabric content is 70% recycled cashmere, 25% cashmere, 5% wool.

also wearing: AG The Farrah High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans with Veja Esplar sneakers

Reformation Finn Sweater in Camel (size S) // This is one of the Reformation sweaters I brought back to try for size comparison. I don’t love the high crewneck or the close fit, but it has nice attention to detail in the knit, and it’s cozy and warm. (The fabric is 89% alpaca, 11% polyamide.)

I think it’s probably too small for me. The sales associate helping me said that Reformation sweaters run small, so I think my size in this brand is probably a medium.

also wearing: AG The Farrah High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans with Veja Esplar sneakers

Reformation Cashmere Blend Sweater in Oatmeal (size S or M?) // Now, this sweater I really like… I didn’t take a picture of the tag, but I’m guessing by the fit that it’s a medium.

I much prefer this longer length (23″) and more relaxed fit, and I love the rolled hem and the extra long arms. It’s the same fabric as the striped one above — 70% recycled cashmere, 25% cashmere, 5% wool.

While I really like this color, I realize it’s not the best for my complexion. I’m wondering about the black or heather grey — neither were in my store, but I might order. (I did not bring this one home with me.)

also wearing: AG The Farrah High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans with Veja Esplar sneakers

Try-On Haul: LOFT

LOFT is running one of their 40% off sales this weekend; the code is OHYES. I had some requests for spring sweaters, and I found a few good ones.

LOFT Spacedye Double V Sweater (size S) // This sweater is a thicker knit, so you could start wearing it now, but it definitely has spring vibes. The material is 70% acrylic, 30% polyester, so make of that what you will.

I like the spacedye knit and various colors, and I also like the double V neckline. I’m not a fan of the drop shoulder, but the length is okay. 25″ is about as long as I can go, but it’s a pretty versatile length. It would look better on me with longer pants.

also wearing: AGOLDE Toni Straight Leg Jeans with Veja Esplar sneakers

LOFT Floral V-Neck Mixed Media Shell (size S) // I think this top is SO cute. I really love the color palette, and I was so happy to put it on and find the armholes not too long (so many seem to show my bra) and the V-neck a flattering shape.

It’s very modest, so if you need work wear, this would be a great piece for spring. This top is just begging to be layered under a white denim jacket! It’s TTS, and I don’t even mind the longer length because it front-tucks very nicely.

Yes, this most definitely came home with me! If you like the shape but not the colors, it also comes in a really pretty navy floral print as well as a solid black and azure blue.

also wearing: AGOLDE Toni Straight Leg Jeans with Veja Esplar sneakers

LOFT Garden Split Neck Mixed Media Shell (size S) // This top serves a similar purpose as the one above, but it has the split neck instead of the v-neck. I also found it cut nice and high under the arms, and while it’s kind of long and boxy, it front tucks nicely as well.

I don’t mind that these tops are rayon/polyester. They’re made fairly well, and I have found them to hold up for a few seasons. When they’re on sale, they’re a great price, and they make nice layering pieces that you can dress up or down all spring and summer long.

also wearing: AGOLDE Toni Straight Leg Jeans with Veja Esplar sneakers

LOFT Striped Pocket Cowl Neck Sweater (size XS) // Finally, one more sweater… they didn’t have this in my store in a small so I tried on the XS, and it actually fits pretty well. It’s one of those really soft, stretchy knits, so while the small is probably my true size, I can get away with the XS. (It’s 55% cotton, 24% polyester, 19% acrylic, 2% spandex.)

I really like how it fits really close to the arms, and I love a raglan sleeve — so much more flattering on those of us with square shoulders. It has just a small cowl neck, and the kangaroo pocket doesn’t create a pooch when you move around. The different stripe patterns is a fun detail.

All in all, this is a great sweater for this transition season! It’s cozy enough to wear now, but the navy and white stripe has a nautical vibe that gives a nod to spring. I brought it home with me.

also wearing: AGOLDE Toni Straight Leg Jeans with Veja Esplar sneakers

Shop these and more LOFT finds (40% off with code OHYES):

Try-On Haul: GAP

Finally, someone asked me to try on some clothes at GAP, and I also had a few requests for straight-leg jeans under $100, so I was able to honor both of those requests!

GAP is running a BOGO 50% off sale, and you can mix and match across all departments sitewide.

Gap Slouchy Hoodie Sweatshirt (size S) // I can’t seem to find this sweatshirt online in the lavender, but it is online in the grey. It’s listed as a new release, so I have to assume this color will be online eventually.

This is called a sweatshirt, but it feels like a sweater to me. In fact, it took me forever to find it on the website because I was looking for under sweaters.

I really like the details — I took so many pictures because I was trying to capture the contrast stitching on the sides, and hem, and the way it’s designed around the neckline. VERY cute top, love the casual vibe, and it’s 100% cotton.

also wearing: Gap High Rise Distressed Cigarette Jeans with Veja Esplar sneakers

Gap True Soft Boatneck Sweater in Pastel Multi Stripe (size S) // This is another fun, springy sweater. This is a thinner ribbed knit, and it’s nice and soft against the skin. The fabric is 55% nylon, 30% merino wool, 15% acrylic — so, kind of a mix of high and low materials.

I appreciate the generous sleeve length, but the boatneck and drop shoulder combo makes my shoulders look even wider than they are, so it’s probably not the best cut for me. Still, I think a lot of you will like it.

I also tried this sweater on in the milk white, and it comes in a few other solids as well…

Gap True Soft Boatneck Sweater in Milk White (size S) // As you can see, this sweater is on the thinner side, and it’s slightly see-through in the white. It also comes in a solid aqua blue, olive green, and pink coral.

Gap High Rise Distressed Cigarette Jeans with Secret Smoothing Pockets (size 28 Regular) // These jeans are very snug in the waist, but they fit well everywhere else. I’m sure the 29 would be more comfortable, but I don’t think it would look as good.

I can’t say how they wear over time — maybe they would stretch out some and become more comfortable. All I know is, I could barely get them buttoned, but once I did, I like how they look. These have the hidden smoothing panels at the front pockets, and they definitely have a slimming effect.

As far as styling goes, they’re not bad. These remind me a lot of vintage Levi’s. I like the lighter wash, and the distressing is not as sophisticated as some, but it looks pretty good.

They’re 98% cotton, 2% spandex, but stiffer than the AG jeans in the same fabric composition, and they have a 27″ inseam. There is no rise measurement, but they’re high-waisted (I’m guessing 11″ rise?)

And for those looking for more sustainable options, these are part of Gap’s water-saving Washwell™ program. One of the biggest issues with denim is how much water it uses, which takes a toll on the environment, so some brands are trying to find creative ways to conserve water in their denim manufacturing process, and Gap is one of those.

also wearing: Chelsea28 cowl neck sweater in Pink Shock Combo with Veja Esplar sneakers

Gap High Rise Cigarette Jeans with Secret Smoothing Pockets in Medium Indigo (size 6) // I am not positive I have the right link to these jeans… once again, I forgot to take a picture of the tags. But they were on the same table as the ones above, and I think they’re the same, just a different wash. I am guessing at the medium indigo I linked to.

This is a nice wash for those who don’t like all the distressing in the pair above.

Shop these and more GAP finds:

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28 Responses

  1. i love reading your try-ons. we have almost identical body measurements and skin-tone, therefore your outfits relate easily to me. thank you for always posting!

    love from washington! 

  2. My goodness your weight loss and loss of inches really shows!  You’ve always looked great, so this is just different.  I’ve been doing IF since lastOctober and have lost 16 pounds.  Might lose more, I’ll just trust that my body will level off where it should be.  Great post!

  3. Love the Try On Hauls. I love all the sweaters and tops, the jeans ,,( I Love Skinnies) and the Vejas. I wear Addidas a lot. I’m really having a hard time with the Fasting. I just don’t hsve the will power I once had. I have also developed a lower back problem which has put me on the side lines with respect to exercise. I’m trying really hard. I turned 70 last October and I’m really having a hard time with doing as much as I used to do. I will eventually get there. Thanks for reading my sob story. Hope you have a great weekend. Love your Blog. 🌹😊

  4. Just wondering your thoughts on the ripped and distressed jeans….are they gradually fading out of style.  I see you still are showing some but I’m not sure about buying the newer cut jeans with rips etc. Would love to hear your comments.
    Also, I appreciate the detail you put in your descriptions.  It’s all very useful!
    Thanks,
    Maureen

  5. Thank you for this great post.  I love the details you give on the fit, fabric, rise.  Everything looks so good on you. Good picks!

  6. I love the Loft floral shell, definitely ordering that. I have a few of their summer shells, and I love them. You look great! I am on Day 13 of IF. I am still quite hungry during my fasting window, but I am sticking to it. I have lost 3.5 pounds, but I am looking more to lose the extra post-menopausal middle, gain extra energy, and just all round feel healthier. Thanks for this post, with some lower priced items.

  7. Love the first three pairs of jeans you tried on. They look great on you. 

    Appreciate all the time you spend for these try on sessions. 

  8. I’m so ready for some transitional pieces.. not going to get all the snow that was forecast for today so yah!! Nice to see the spring colors in your try on.. I really liked the plaid blouse, camel sweater, and reformation sweater at Nordstrom plus the stripe sweater and tank (red one) from Loft and the striped sweater from the Gap.. great haul for sure.

  9. Love your try on sessions….and the mirrors don’t seem dirty at all. Was pleasantly surprised by the Gap sweaters: so cute! I forget about the Gap as an option to shop at at my age ie no longer a teenager!😂 The AG jeans look terrific! Big shout out to you that you have lost inches for sure. IF seems to agree with you. Reminds me of how important nutrition is……. We can’t out exercise a bad diet. Will return to healthy eating after Superbowl festivities.

  10. I love that lavender “sweatshirt “. Gorgeous for spring!! And also the bright sleeveless top. That is coming to my closet! Great for work!

  11. Thank you for doing all my shopping again! I truly do not enjoy searching and trying on things at the store. You found a great mix of items to be thinking about right now, so I’m now inspired to clean out my closet and take inventory of potential needs (wants?!), a good project for a dreary weekend. 

  12. Fun try on session!  I especially loved that lavender sweatshirt!  I need to keep an eye out for that color to be online.   And really all the sweaters from Loft and Gap were fun.  I wear lightweight sweaters here, almost into June sometimes.

  13. Great post!! Love to hear your thought process as you determine if an item is a hit or miss!
    BTW- do you think frayed hems will be in for a while?
    Happy Saturday!

  14. You really tried on some pretty sweaters and tops!  If I needed to add any to my closet there are several I would check out, but since I don’t, I am not going to tempt myself by checking them out on the various websites.  At 63, I definitely don’t need to get hooked on high $$ denim.  I do wish I could find some pretty floral sleeveless tops, for layering, like the ones you tried on at Loft, that are made out of fabric with plenty of give and movability.  This post wasn’t late for me since I spent the morning baking two batches of lemon squares.  I hope you’ve had a sunny Saturday, unlike ours.

  15. I love, love, love the AG Farrah jeans on you! You honestly look great in everything you tried on. Your weight loss is very apparent. You’ve always looked gorgeous, but you look gorgeouser…. I just made that word up… 😉
    Thank you for the try ons… love all the pretty sweaters! 

  16. The AG Prima Ankle Cigarette Jeans look GORGEOUS on you. I’m inspired to get some myself!  And what a nice break for the eyes to see springy colors….of the 31 days in January, I think northeast Ohio saw two sunny days. So ready for some sunshine. 

  17. So many cute options here!  I love that floral shell from Loft, and the Gap striped sweater.  You look amazing!  I’m glad you’re feeling good.  By the way, I’m still chuckling about your description of not wanting to reach your “oh hell no” weight.  😂

  18. Love the post! Your IF is paying off. Great selection of transItional pieces. Thank you for your try on sessions, since shopping just isn’t what it use to be. I know it’s time consuming, but I really appreciate what you do!

  19. Really like your nod to Spring. SO ready!! Your procrastination comment reminded me of a store’s sign I saw yesterday. I laughed out loud…’Procrastinators unite meeting tomorrow’. 

  20. I just came across your website and I really enjoyed reading it. You have some great tips about how to wear your clothes.
    Thanks 
    Toni

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