Winter Tops & Sweaters

Let’s start with tops and sweaters. I’ve been craving a little more color lately, and you’ll see that reflected here. I don’t really need many new tops right now, so I was selective about what I kept—but almost everything I tried is still worth a look.

Pistola Kit V-Neck Sweater

at EVEREVE (S) // MOTHER Lil Kick It (30P) // adidas Spezial (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Crafted from a plush Alpaca blend, the Kit Sweater by Pistola features a deep v-neckline, a slightly cropped silhouette, and is finished in a saturated jewel tone.

• Length: 21 1/2″ from shoulder to hem
• 45% Alpaca, 34% Acrylic, 19% Nylon, 2% Spandex Knit
• Dry clean only

MY THOUGHTS: This sweater is so pretty, and I love this shade of green—it’s really flattering on. I expected to like that plush Alpaca knit, but it felt pretty scratchy when I had it on, and at this price point, that’s a deal breaker for me.

VERDICT: Sadly, this one had to go back. 

Lucky Brand Cable Stitch Boat Neck Cotton Sweater in White Cap Grey

at Lucky Brand, Macy’s & Nordstrom (S) // Frame Pixie Arrow (30P) // La Canadienne boots (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: A boat neckline elegantly tops this chunky cable-stitch pullover knit from warming cotton yarns and destined to be a sweater-weather favorite.

• 100% cotton
• Machine wash, tumble dry

MY THOUGHTS: I saw this sweater at Nordstrom, and I was drawn to the pretty texture and the bright ivory shade—it’s so refreshing this time of year. (I don’t know why they call it grey, it’s definitely ivory!) It pairs beautifully with light and mid wash denim, as well as grey and washed black, and I think it would also be nice with the shades of mauve we’re seeing all of a sudden. It’s also cotton, so nice for those who live in warmer climates. I really like the fit of this one too. 

VERDICT: I decided to hold onto it for now, and see if I reach for it. It’s probably not warm enough for me to start wearing just yet.

Ruth Multi Stripe Cashmere Sweater

at EVEREVE (S) // MOTHER Roller (30) // Dolce Vita boots (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Colorful stripes add a stylish pop to this so-soft cashmere sweater by EVEREVE, featuring a slightly cropped silhouette with a classic crew neckline, raglan sleeves, and ribbed trim at the collar, cuffs, and hem.

• Length: 20 1/2″ from shoulder to hem
• 100% Cashmere Knit
• Dry clean only

MY THOUGHTS: This sweater is 100% cashmere and super soft, although on the thinner side. I really like the classic fit with the raglan sleeves, and I think the colorful stripes are so pretty and a nice change from all my solids. However, it seems to run a bit small (and short), so I would need a larger size.

VERDICT: I sent this back, but I may re-order in the medium.

Roslyn Rugby Stripe Sweater

at EVEREVE (S) // MOTHER Roller (30) // Dolce Vita boots (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Cozy up to this stylish striped rugby sweater by EVEREVE, featuring a relaxed silhouette with a collared button-front neckline, dropped shoulders, and rib knit trim.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 22″
• 60% Nylon, 25% Rayon, 12% Acrylic, 3% Spandex Knit
• Machine wash cold, dry flat.

MY THOUGHTS: This one is a fun concept, with the rugby stripes and collared button-front neckline, and I like the 22″ length and relaxed fit. It’s very soft and has a nice drape, but I could probably size up, and I didn’t care for the drop shoulder. Other than that, it’s a cute sweater to throw on with jeans and boots or sneakers this winter.

VERDICT: I didn’t love this enough to order the medium, but it’s definitely worth a try if you like it.

Madewell Colorblock Raglan Sleeve Merino Wool Sweater

at Madewell and Nordstrom (S) // Frame Pixie Arrow (30P) // La Canadienne Kiki (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Bold colorblock stripes and raglan sleeves give this crewneck sweater a vintage-inspired feel. Knit with merino wool for warmth, it features ribbed trim at the neck, cuffs and hem.

• Body length: 21 1/2″
• 100% merino wool
• Dry clean only.

MY THOUGHTS: I really like the colors in this sweater and the way they ground the bright stripes with black so it still looks grown-up. It has a bit of an après-ski vibe. It’s a nice-quality merino wool, so it’s very warm and has good structure, unlike cashmere, which can be a little more drapey. It’s also on a major sale right now—marked down 20% plus an extra 40% off with code NEWYEAR.

VERDICT: I kept this and already wore it once. I think it will be a nice bridge to spring here in the frigid northeast.

NAADAM Signature Cashmere Boxy Turtleneck Sweater in Scarlet Red

c/o NAADAM (M) // MOTHER Doozy Fray (30) // Sam Edelman boots (8.5)

DETAILS: Oversized and unforgettable. The Signature Cashmere Boxy Turtleneck Sweater is knit from midweight 100% signature cashmere with a boxy, oversized fit and a short length. It’s your new go-to for easy layering and all-day comfort.

• Designed to skim the top of the hip bones.
• 12 gg, 1 ply, 100% cashmere; not too thick, not too thin. Goldilocks. 
• Hand wash and lay flat to dry, or dry clean.

MY THOUGHTS: I’ve been a fan of NAADAM cashmere for years, so when they reached out and offered to send me a few pieces, I was happy to accept. (They’re also running a 50% off sale right now!) I chose this turtleneck for the relaxed fit and gorgeous shade of red. It’s incredibly soft and luxurious, and I love the loose, boxy silhouette.

Style tip: I turned the turtleneck under for a more streamlined look.

VERDICT: Keeping! This will be gorgeous (and cozy) to wear here in Philly over the next few weeks while it’s still cold. Also, I recommend sizing up for a bit more length, as it’s quite short. I’m wearing the medium.

NAADAM Luxe Cashmere Oversized Crewneck Sweater in Black

c/o NAADAM (M) // MOTHER Doozy Fray (30) // Sam Edelman boots (8.5)

DESCRIPTION: Effortless and oversized. The Luxe Cashmere Oversized Crewneck is a modern classic with drop shoulders and a slouchy fit that hits just right. Crafted from heavyweight 100% cashmere for structure, warmth, and soft sophistication.

• Designed to sit at the base of the hips or lower. Offers full coverage.
• 7 gg, 2 ply, 100% cashmere; luxuriously thick and soft with a plush, downy feel.
• Hand wash and lay flat to dry, or dry clean,

MY THOUGHTS: I also picked this luxe oversized crewneck in classic black. This one is thicker and feels a bit more substantial than the turtleneck, and it’s currently 50% off. I really like the feel of it, but the longer length isn’t my favorite. It’s made in such a way that you can adjust the hem, though, so I set it at mid-hip and just let it fall naturally.

Fit tip: Because it has a longer, more relaxed fit, I ordered this one in a small, and it feels like the right size.

VERDICT: I’ll happily keep this one, but if I had to choose between the two, I’d go with the turtleneck—it’s just so easy to throw on and go.

Vince Cable Short Sleeve Sweater in Clover

at Vince.com & Nordstrom (M) // similar PAIGE Anessa (29) // similar boots

PRODUCT DETAILS: A short-sleeve sweater that boasts as much practicality as it does polish. Cable knit from a blend featuring wool and cashmere, it’s light, airy and breathable throughout winter-to-spring’s trickiest temperature shifts.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 21.25″
• 68% Wool, 26% cashmere, 5% nylon, 1% spandex.
• Hand wash cold, do not bleach. Reshape and lay flat to dry, or dry clean.

MY THOUGHTS: This sweater is such a gorgeous classic, with a cable-knit pattern and a traditional fit. It’s the perfect length to wear untucked or with a front tuck—about 22″ in the medium. Short-sleeve crewneck sweaters can sometimes skew a little frumpy, but this one doesn’t at all. The sleeve length is really nice, and the set-in shoulder seams hit just right. I love this clover green, but it also comes in navy, a pale heather grey, and amethyst.

VERDICT: Definitely keeping this one, can’t wait to wear it!

TREASURE & BOND Oversize Pointelle V-Neck Sweater 

at Nordstrom (S) // Madewell Jules (30) // Veronica Beard flats (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Sweater weather is so much sweeter in a wool-kissed V-neck knit in an oversize silhouette with pretty pointelle stitching details for a cute and cozy look.

• 68% acrylic, 12% polyester, 11% nylon, 6% wool, 3% spandex
• Hand wash, dry flat

MY THOUGHTS: This sweater is really pretty. The pointelle stitching and subtle lantern sleeves are lovely details, and the light pink color pairs beautifully with light-wash jeans or grey denim. It also feels like a subtle nod to Valentine’s Day without being too literal.

Fit note: I wish I’d sized up for a more relaxed fit, as shown on the model. The website notes say it runs large, but that wasn’t my experience.

VERDICT: I returned this, but I may re-order in a medium.

Caslon Stripe Relaxed Fit Sweater

at Nordstrom (S) // MOTHER Lil Kick It (30P) // VEJA Esplar (39)

PRODUCT DETAILS: The design pairs a relaxed fit with crisp jacquard stripes, creating a look that feels both effortless and elevated.

• 60% recycled polyester, 29% polyester, 8% nylon, 3% spandex
• Machine wash, dry flat

MY THOUGHTS: This is another cute, affordable sweater from Nordstrom, and it comes in two fun colorways. I love the stripe pattern, and the shades of pink feel really fresh and fun for this time of year.

VERDICT: I’m not sure I’ll reach for this often enough to add another sweater to my closet right now, but it’s a really nice option and definitely worth checking out.

Caslon Cozy Rib Cardigan in Grey

at Nordstrom (S) // MOTHER Roller (30) // similar boots // Paige Anessa (30) // silver flats (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Layering up in the plush softness and sumptuous texture of this sweater is easy thanks to its relaxed fit and a simple design that makes it a ready companion to a variety of looks.

• 48% polyester, 32% acrylic, 20% nylon
• Machine wash, dry flat

MY THOUGHTS: This cardigan is a nice, versatile basic. I first tried it with the mauve jeans and silver flats, and I liked that color combo, but the proportions felt a bit off. The sweater is slightly too long for wide-leg cropped jeans, so I went back to my closet and paired it with full-length washed black jeans and a low heel instead. Those vertical proportions feel much more pleasing to my eye.

I also played around with unbuttoning a few buttons at the top and bottom—unbuttoning an extra button at the bottom gives it a bit more shape. Of course, it can also be worn open over a T-shirt or tank, as shown on the website.

VERDICT: I’m not sure I love this one, but it’s a nice option at a moderate price point, if you’re looking for a versatile cardigan. It also comes in navy and light pink.

Denim Try-Ons: MOTHER, J.Crew, Madewell, LOFT & More

And now for the good stuff… 😉 I’ve ordered a bunch of denim lately. I don’t really need new jeans at the moment, but it feels like fresh styles are popping up everywhere, and I was curious to try them and share my thoughts with you.

There’s a range of price points here, so if you’re in the market for denim, hopefully you’ll spot something worth trying. I do have more on the way, but I didn’t want to hold these until next week, so I went ahead and included them here.

MOTHER The Doozy Fray in Heads Or Tails

at motherdenim.com & Nordstrom (30) // Naadam turtleneck (S) // Sam Edelman boots (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: A high-rise flare with a zip fly, long 34-inch inseam and a frayed hem. Made from semi-rigid SUPERIOR denim, Heads Or Tails is a vintage blue with subtle whiskering and fading throughout.
These jeans are semi-rigid and take time to break in. MOTHER says patience is a virtue.

• 34″ inseam; 25″ leg opening; 10″ front rise
• 98% cotton, 2% elastane
• Machine wash, tumble dry
• Made in the USA

MY THOUGHTS: I was curious to try this new style of MOTHER flares, and I really like it. It’s similar to my all-time favorite Weekender but a bit more relaxed, with a wider leg opening and a little extra length. They’re too long for me, even with my highest heels, but since it has a raw hem, I can just cut them. The fit is great, and the wash is spot on—perfectly faded without feeling overdone. I just wish the rise was a bit higher and not quite as snug through the waistband, but maybe that will loosen up with wear.

VERDICT: I am very tempted to keep these. I thought I was over frayed-hem flares for now, but I really like this pair. The denim is slightly more rigid than the stretchier MOTHER styles I’m used to, which actually makes them feel a bit more current.

MOTHER The Mid Rise Lasso Sneak in Get Two Birds Stoned

at motherdenim & Nordstrom (30) // J.Crew sweater (S) // similar boots

PRODUCT DETAILS: Wide-leg pants with a zip fly, mid rise and a 32-inch inseam with a clean hem. Made from semi-rigid SUPERIOR denim, Get Two Birds Stoned is a mid-blue with whiskering and fading at the knees.
These jeans are semi-rigid and take time to break in. MOTHER says patience is a virtue.

• 32″ inseam; 21″ leg opening; 10 1/4″ front rise
• 98% cotton, 2% elastane
• Machine wash, tumble dry
• Made in the USA

MY THOUGHTS: This is another new MOTHER style I wanted to try. They’re labeled as a wide leg, but with a 21″ leg opening, they read more like a relaxed straight to me. They also have a subtle bow shape, which is very on trend right now—and I don’t mind it. My legs are a bit knock-kneed, so a hint of bow shape actually works in my favor.

The fit is a little odd, though. They feel snug through the hips and rear, and the waist hits right at my fleshiest point, creating an unfortunate muffin top. The rear pockets also sit quite low.

I may need a larger size in this more rigid denim, since The Doozy Fray fits me the same way. The wash, however, is really good.

VERDICT: I don’t think I love these enough to keep them, but they’re a style to watch. I think they might grow in popularity, and I might revisit them at a later date.

MOTHER The Lil Kick It in Nighty Night

at motherdenim.com (30) // Madewell sweater (S) // similar boots

PRODUCT DETAILS: A high-rise straight leg jean with a 30-inch inseam and a clean hem. Made from stretch denim, Nighty Night is a true black with tonal hardware.

• 30″ Inseam; 10 1/4″ Rise; 17″ Leg Opening
• 78% cotton, 16% modal, 4% polyester, 2% elastane
• Machine wash, tumble dry

MY THOUGHTS: II love the blue jean version of these, so I thought I’d try the black wash. They seem to run a bit smaller and slightly longer. They fit very tight through the waist—tight enough that I’d likely need to size up, and I just don’t love the inky black wash. It feels a bit too conservative and slightly harsh on me.

VERDICT: I didn’t love the wash on these, and the fit wasn’t quite right either, so I sent them back. If you’re looking for a very classic pair of black straight-leg jeans, these might be worth a try. And if you need a longer length, they also come in a 32″ inseam.

FRAME Le Pixie Arrow in Halo

at FRAME & Nordstrom (30P) // cashmere hoodie (M) // Birkenstock clogs (39) // Lucky Brand sweater (M) // La Canadienne boots (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: The Arrow silhouette, reimagined with petite-friendly proportions and a shorter inseam. This high rise, relaxed bootcut jean is crafted from denim with just a hint of stretch for polished comfort. A medium-stretch denim with the softest handfeel for a comfortable, flattering fit from the first wear.

• 30″ inseam; 20″ leg opening; 11 1/2″ front rise
• 99% cotton, 1% elastane
• Machine Wash Cold

MY THOUGHTS: I forget where I first saw these, but I’m glad I tried them. They have a more modern relaxed fit without being slouchy—they’re called bootcut, but I feel like they read as more of a relaxed straight.

I like the higher rise, and they’re a little rigid, but I can get used to them. It’s a nice wash, too. They actually look like real jeans.

This is the petite version, which has a 30″ inseam—perfect for me to wear with sneakers and low-heeled boots. If you want a longer option, The Arrow has a 33″ inseam.

VERDICT: I decided to keep these! I’ve already worn them a couple times. They’re a nice alternative to the MOTHER Lil Kick It that I wear so much.

J.Crew Denim Trouser Jeans

on sale at J.Crew (29) // Vince sweater (M) // similar boots

PRODUCT DETAILS: The effortless everyday pair you were looking for, with an ultra-high rise that sits right at—or just below—the belly button and a wide-leg that’s fitted around the hips and gradually gets roomier.

• 11 3/4″ Front Rise; 31″ Inseam; 24 1/2″ Leg Opening
• 99% cotton; 1% Lycra® spandex
• Machine wash, tumble dry

MY THOUGHTS: These jeans are remarkably good! I often struggle with J.Crew fits, but I really like this pair. They feel like a cross between a slim wide leg and a relaxed straight.

The wash is a great medium shade, with just enough whiskering and fading to look lived-in without feeling sloppy—and the rear view checks out too. I think they’re a really solid option if you don’t want to spend upwards of $150 on denim. And right now, they’re 50% off, bringing the price down to $79.50.

Fit note: These seem to run big, at least compared to MOTHER and FRAME. I sized down to a 29.

VERDICT: I’m not sure I need these, but I might hold onto them anyway. I really like the fit and feel, and they are just the right length for a low heel.

Madewell The Jules Slim Straight Jean

at Madewell (30) // Winter White Hendrix Henley (M) // Dolce Vita Notice (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: The cut: fitted through the hip and thigh with the holds-you-in feel of our Magic Pockets™ in front, these mid-rise jeans have a slim, straight leg and ankle-length inseam. Wear yours with a cozy sock and loafer combo.

• 9 3/4″ rise, 14″ leg opening, 27 1/2″ inseam.
• 98% Regenagri® certified cotton/2% elastane.
• Machine wash in cold water with like colors

MY THOUGHTS: Just after I said Madewell jeans never fit me quite right (in this post), I have to eat my words! I really like these. They feel like a more modern take on a straight ankle jean, and they also have just a hint of a bow shape, which I think works especially well in an ankle-length style. The faded wash has a nice, casual vibe, and the denim feels soft and comfortable.

Fit note: Like the J.Crew pair, the size 30 is pretty roomy on me. I am waiting for the size 29 to arrive to try. J.Crew and Madewell are owned by the same company (fun fact!), and it seems their denim runs a big larger than the premium denim brands.

VERDICT: I’m holding onto these, but I expect the 29 will be a better fit.

LOFT Rivete Denim Reviews

LOFT just launched a new denim line called Rivete, so I wanted to give it a try. I ordered several pairs, mostly in a size 30, which seems to be what I need these days, but they do appear to run a bit large. I’ll share my initial thoughts below, and I have more pairs coming in a 29 so I can give more accurate fit notes once those arrive. Also, they’re 30% off right now!

LOFT Rivete Fresh Cut High Rise Wide Leg Jeans in Noir Wash

at LOFT (30) // LOFT Striped Wedge Tee (S) // Sam Edelman Saige Bootie (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: There’s a new jean in town. And there’s nothing cooler than being the first to make them your own. We believe the best jeans make the outfit. These are the ones. Effortlessly cool. Uniquely versatile. And totally worthy of that “I told you so” attitude. We knew you’d know a good thing.

• Full length, 30 1/2″ inseam
• Sits at high waist, 12″ rise
• 78% Cotton 18% Lyocell 3% Elasterell-P 1% Spandex
• Machine washable

MY THOUGHTS: I really like this pair! I love the wide-leg fit and the wash, too. They’re a nice alternative to the MOTHER Hustler Roller Sneak. These are the size 30, and while I think the 29 will fit better, I can already tell this style is going to be a winner.

VERDICT: I’m waiting for the 29. I may cut them to wear with flats, since I had my MOTHER Rollers hemmed for heels.

LOFT Rivete High Rise Straight Jeans in Vintage Mid Wash

at LOFT (30) // LOFT Striped Wedge Tee (S) // Veronica Beard Bancroft Pointed Toe Flat (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Vintage-inspired, with a waist-flattering high rise and comfort stretch.

• Sits at high waist, 12 1/2″ rise
• Ankle length, 28″ inseam
• 100% Cotton
• Machine washable

MY THOUGHTS: I’m not as crazy about this pair. The wash looks a bit cheap, and the fit feels off. I do need to try the 29, so it’s hard to say for sure, but overall they don’t read as quality denim to me. They also are 100% cotton, so quite rigid and not as comfortable as I like.

VERDICT: These are going back.

LOFT Rivete High Rise Slim Flare Jeans in Muse Wash

at LOFT (30) // LOFT Striped Wedge Tee (S)

PRODUCT DETAILS: A modern classic, with a waist-flattering high rise in perfectly stretchy denim.

• 32″ inseam, 12 1/2″ rise
• 84% Cotton 15% Tencel 1% Spandex
• Machine washable

MY THOUGHTS: This pair fits fairly well in the size 30, though they’re a bit snug through the hips. I expect they’d stretch out some with wear. They have more stretch than the pairs above and fit more like a ’90s-era bootcut—even the dark wash has that vibe. While they’re flattering, I don’t really get a modern feel from these, and I don’t think I’d reach for them.

VERDICT: These are also going back.

LOFT Rivete Mid Rise Relaxed Straight Jeans in Vintage Mid Wash

at LOFT (29) // LOFT Striped Wedge Tee (S) // Veronica Beard Bancroft (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Relaxed and easy, with a classic mid rise.

• 31″ inseam, 11″ rise
• 76% Cotton 23% Lyocell 1% Elastane
• Machine washable

MY THOUGHTS: Now this pair I like quite a bit. I ordered the 29, which is definitely the right size for me in this style. They’re labeled a relaxed straight, and they’re actually a pretty good alternative to the MOTHER Lil Kick It. The wash has a nice fade, although the whiskering at the hips is a bit heavy—but not a deal breaker. They’re also comfortable, with a decent amount of stretch.

VERDICT: I think I’ll keep these and try them with a few different top and shoe combinations.

And that’s a wrap! I hope you found a few pieces here, and if you have any questions, I’m happy to answer in the comments.

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