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My Least Used Products of 2018

I did a post on my least used products last year, and it was well-received so I thought I’d do one for this year. Plus it ties in nicely to my always popular Best Buys posts.

To be clear, this is not a “worst purchases” list. These are all things I still like and would recommend, but I just didn’t end up wearing or using them all that much. Either they didn’t work for my personal style, for my lifestyle, or with the rest of my wardrobe; but they weren’t bad purchases, so please don’t feel duped if you bought any of these off of my recommendation. They might work great for you; they just didn’t work for me.

This a helpful exercise because I was drawn to each of these items for one reason or another, and hopefully I can learn from these purchases and make better buying decisions going forward.

MY LEAST USED PRODUCTS OF 2018

#1. Eliza J. Sequined Cap Sleeve Sheath 

I absolutely love this dress, but the event I bought it for ended up being held at a not-so-fancy venue, and it is still hanging in my closet unworn except for this freezing-cold photo shoot back in November. I am hoping I get a chance to wear it sometime, but I also have 2 other un-worn cocktail dresses in my closet waiting for the same opportunity, so only time will tell.

I really should stop buying cocktail dresses until I wear the ones I have, but they sure are fun to shop for!

#2. Trouve Knot Front Tee

This is another piece that I really liked and never wore, but for different reasons. I should have had plenty of opportunities to wear it, but for some reason it just hung in my closet and I’m not sure why. It’s a fun elevated t-shirt, and it was flattering, or so I thought. The one time I put it on for church with black jeans and black wedge sandals, and I ended up taking it off because I felt like the look was more date-night than worship service.

I think it was a little too casual for some settings but too body-con for others, and it never seemed quite right for what I needed. That’s the way it goes sometimes, I guess, but I think the lesson here is to only buy something if you know where you will wear it? If I wasn’t a fashion blogger, I would have saved it for this summer and tried to wear it; but I passed it on because I know I’ll opt to wear pieces I can link to and it will just sit in my closet for another season.

#3. Sam Edelman Kinzey Leopard Booties

These are cute but a little fussy for me, and I can never get excited about wearing them when I’m going out. I always opt for leopard pumps instead. I still have them, so hopefully I’ll get a little more wear out of them before spring comes.

Incidentally, they’re 50% off right now, so if you liked them but the price tag was holding you back, now’s the time to grab them!

#4. Lucky Brand Girlfriend Utility Jacket

I don’t know when I’ll learn, I just don’t wear utility jackets. I can’t say why exactly, but I never reach for them when putting outfits together… unless I’m doing a blog post about one, haha!

It’s one of those wardrobe pieces that I feel like I should have because everyone says so, but I just don’t love them. Maybe because they don’t have much structure? I can’t really say, but it’s probably time to pass this on because it just takes up prime real estate in my closet.

#5. Blondo Nicola Waterproof Knee High Boots

These are gorgeous boots, but I for some reason I don’t reach for them very often. I sort of forget about them, actually. I started out the fall season with all my tall boots stored in boxes in my husband’s closet, and as I’ve worn them, I’ve started leaving them out in my closet where I can see what I have. These never got left out, so I rarely think about them. I need to get them out and make an effort to wear them because they’re great boots.

The wood sole gives them a casual vibe, but the black suede makes them seem dressy, making them harder to style than some of my other boots, but with all the casual outfits I wear, I should definitely be getting more use out of them.

#6. J.Crew Factory Lace T-Shirt

I thought I liked this top, and I was sure I’d find a couple of occasions to wear it during holiday season, but I never did. I ended up wearing the LOFT velvet dot tie back shell for the Christmas brunch I hosted, which is where I thought I’d wear it. And after that, I never found another opportunity.

It’s a cute top, but it’s rather sweet, and I just never felt excited to wear it so I ended up passing it on to my niece when I cleaned out my closet after the holidays. I suppose I could have kept it to wear this spring, but I decided to let it go to someone who will enjoy it.

#7. Vince Camuto Thelmin Booties

These boots are gorgeous, but I’ve never worn them. I KNOW! It’s a shame. They’re difficult to wear with skinnies because they have a tall shaft that is very stiff, and I have to wear socks to protect my calves. They’re perfect with bootcut jeans, but I never feel like wearing bootcuts when I’m going out.

I know this is a controversial thing to say (haha!) but as flattering as bootcut jeans are, I don’t feel like they look as current as skinnies, so when I’m going out on the weekends I always end up in my skinny jeans and a different boot. They’re still in my closet, so I guess I need to make more of an effort to wear them.

This is an example of when you need to style an outfit around the shoe. I tend to start with my tops and then pick out the best pair of pants to pair with it, and then choose shoes last. It’s easy to get stuck in a rut this way, so maybe I’ll try it next time we go out and style an outfit around these boots. Same goes for the leopard booties.

#8. Brahmin Nadia Croc Embossed Leather Satchel

This bag is a conundrum. When I got it, it seemed to go with everything, and now I feel like it goes with nothing. I’m not getting rid of it because I think it’s a nice addition to my handbag collection, but I’m going to have to be more intentional about carrying it. I guess I don’t regret the purchase, but it’s definitely my least used handbag purchase of the year.

#9. Caslon Twill Utility Skirt

I bought this during the #NSale and never wore it. Something about the fit was a little off — it’s too wide or something. I expect a good tailor could have fixed it right up, as I liked the styling and the color and all, but I never bothered. This is partially due to my job and the fact that it sold out, so it didn’t seem worth it to me, since I couldn’t continue to link it.

Looking at it these pictures, though, I’m thinking I should have had it altered because it’s cute, and I could definitely use a utility skirt in my summer wardrobe. Oh, well. Live and learn!

10. WHBM Floral-Print Crochet-Trim Off-the-Shoulder Blouse

I am officially banned from buying off-the-shoulder tops. In last year’s least worn items post, I included two off-the-shoulder tops. They’re cute, and I love the look, but I always feel ridiculous wearing them, and to be honest, they’re a pain. This one is really pretty, though, and I wish I’d forced myself to wear it at least once. I actually think I saved it, so maybe I’ll wear it one time this summer before I donate it, haha!

11. 7 For All Mankind Agave Skinny Jeans

These are great jeans, and I have them in 2 other colors, but unfortunately I bought them a size too small. I had the 29 in my first pair, but they always felt a little big in the waist and I found myself pulling them up, so when I got this color, I went down a size. They were comfortable so I took the tags off and kept them, but because they’re light colored and thin, they seemed to show ev-er-y-thing. I also put on a few pounds after I purchased them, as I tend to do in spring and summer.

All that to say, I rarely wore them because I felt self-conscious. They’re such a good price right now at Off Fifth ($80.99!!!) that I have half a mind to order my size 29. They really are a great color, and I love the released hem. Incidentally, the pink color that I have is also on sale.

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106 Responses

  1. Great post, thank you.  I bought the Caslon skirt for late summer, early fall. I sized down and I love the fit, but was  never sure what top to wear with it.   I would love to see a “worst purchase” post.

    1. I think skirts are hard b/c tops are so long these days. I wore more skirts when tees and tops were shorter and more fitted/structured. The front tuck with a skirt looks weird from the back, in my opinion… even weirder than with pants, lol.

      1. It’s funny you say that because it seems like every top I’ve bought online lately is shorter and boxy looking. Alas I’ve had to return most. I’d love a happy medium – not too long and not too short that it shows my belly when I raise up my arms! 

  2. Great post! I’m getting better about editing my purchases but I have a few of these items that I never seem to wear. Converse sneakers (I feel ridiculous in them), ballet flats that look adorable (on other people) but aren’t supportive enough for wearing all day, and the aforementioned utility jacket (honestly, I’m an indoor-sy girl and in the spring it’s usually a denim jacket that I reach for) I tend to buy things on a whim thinking I’ll wear them on a date night with my husband or a girls-night-out and those things happen less frequently than my closet would lead you to believe. Cocktail dresses are hard because I go to the same events year after year and don’t want to wear the same dress twice (who am I, Madonna? Is anyone remembering what I wore last year other than me?!?) so I tend to buy a new one each year.

    Incidentally, we saw the Carole King musical last year at the Kennedy Center and it is excellent! Even my teens liked it, although my son wanted to know how everyone in the audience already knew all the songs (there was a fair amount of singing along going on) and I had to remind his 17 year old self that Carole King songs are famous 😉 Enjoy!

    1. Glad to know you liked it. I know my 16 y/o daughter will love it. She’s a total music junkie. And LOL about the cocktail dress. I wouldn’t repeat it at the same event either. Have you ever done Rent the Runway? I was debating trying that this year.

  3. Love this post! Very interesting and it helps me with my wardrobe! There are always a few items I buy a year That I end up not wearing. Need to make an effort to plan an outfit around them or donate ☺

  4. Another good post! I think all of us have things we thought were going to be a “winner” and then just can’t seem to find the right mix to wear it with or the right venue, etc. Nice to know we aren’t alone! Great comments about why you feel the way you do about them too. These posts are nice this time of year in reflection and when so many of us are trying to watch what we spend after the holidays. When posting a new outfit every day, we start to be tempted with new purchases too. I like the recycling of your photos as well. You forget quickly what are pieces you styled together and so they are good reminders. Thanks for the variety.

  5. This is a great post! I think it is helpful to hear even fashion bloggers make mistakes with clothing purchases. I understand the utility jacket dilemma. EVERY blogger raves about them. I even thought I needed one but they don’t suit my style, too casual and unstructured. I do love you in that off the shoulder top, that was one of my favorite outfits of yours!

  6. Well it’s nice to know JoLynne is more like me than I ever would have thought. LOL You do relate. That’s why we all love you! I remember all these purchases and that cocktail dress, who would blame you for keeping it. You look adorable! Just dropping in to say thanks for the blessing you are to the blogging world. My day is complete once I read JoLynne’s blog. Thanks, Sharon

  7. I have a utility jacket from Lucky I never wear and have thought about getting rid of. It’s even more unstructured than the one your wearing. Also not crazy about those types of skirts. A little frumpy. Thanks for posting. Wonder what my top unused purchases would be! Lol

  8. Good Morning! Perfect post – I fall into what I call “my traps” for thinking I need to be on trend all of the time. I am getting better with experience … i.e. age!

  9. A really fun post to read. I think you should keep the utiliy jacket, it looks great on your. Otherwise, how much would you sell it for? I’m between XS and S so I think it would fit me and I’d love to have it 🙂
    Love the off the shoulder top, but I too never wear them. I’ve seen bloggers just wearing them on the shoulders. Wonder if that would work with this one and you could wear it that way?

  10. I’m glad you did this post again.  I can relate… especially to the utility coat one and the agave jeans.  For me the deal with utility coats is that they’re usually short waisted and the drawstring placement doesn’t flatter.  Once I started finding lower waisted styles, they–and similar waisted utility vests–became a staple in my closet.   

    As for the light colored jeans, they’re rarely a yes for me.  Love them, but they hate my thighs and the pinker colors make me look I forgot something…ie, to wear pants. LOL

    Looking forward to your house pics!

    1. Em…..you are right. I think you figured out why I don’t where my utility jacket.  Its the short waisted thing. I think it just looks weird.  You are right the drawstring waist is too high.  

  11. I still LOVE that cocktail dress even though I didn’t order it (we just don’t go to many places where I could use it either).  But it’s so pretty!  Hopefully you’ll get a chance to wear it.  😊

    I hear ya on the utility jackets!  I’ve purchased a few and end up donating them.  I love how they look on others but they just don’t seem to look right on “me”.  Like you said … live and learn.  

    Great post!  

    Have fun tonight at the musical!  

  12. Great post.  It’s nice to know you are also swayed by what bloggers are recommending.  I’ve been tempted so many times to buy a utility jacket but couldn’t ever figure out when I would wear it.  You helped me recognize that I’m easily persuaded by blogger recommendations but I need to purchase according to my style and comfort.  You continue to be my favorite for your honesty and in-depth posts.   

  13. I love this post!  It is a marvelous idea to pause and understand the reasons our items didn’t work out for us.  You have some fabulous pieces shown, and make great points as to why you aren’t wearing them.  I too have some great shoes that I just don’t pull out of the closet.  I have more dressy items than I need and no special occasions to wear them. And I have sized down and then regretted it.  I do find pieces that I need to give a second chance and because I might actually wear them with the right combination.  I think those knee boots are worth a shot!  They are beautiful!

    1. P.S.  Just read the comments, and it seems I am in the minority on utility jackets!  I put off getting one because I was afraid I wouldn’t wear it.  After buying my first one, I bought another in a different color and I wear them often.  However, my lifestyle is very casual and the jacket colors are neutrals so they go with a lot in my closet.  But, I can completely see how this trend isn’t for everyone.  

      1. I’m with you Gina!  I love my utility jacket.  I only wear it in the spring & fall as an outside layer, and I don’t work so live a casual lifestyle, but I wear it running errands, etc. all the time 🙂

        1. I’m with you ladies – love all of my utility jackets !! (yes, plural – one is greyish, another beigish, some lighter weight, some lined for cooler temps, some short, some mid thigh….. Its an addiction!) My husband calls them “Rambo” jackets 😉. They suit my casual lifestyle and short waisted figure.

          Love this post – helps figure out what I got wrong. Love the sparkly cocktail dress but would never have an occasion to wear it either so it would collect dust in my closet. Too bad about the Touve front knot top – that was a fav of mine.

          Have fun at the musical!

  14. This is a truly fantastic post. Very helpful. I feel exactly the same about utility jackets. I have owned two and never wore them. I love the look, but like you said, I just never reached for them. I’d rather wear a leather or suede jacket.

  15. Thanks JoLynne!  I enjoyed seeing this list. 

    What is the monogrammed clutch you’re holding in the off-the-shoulder pic?  I need one. 

  16. Great post!  I can’t imagine how difficult it must be for you to decide what to keep and what to just use for a shoot and then return.  I have never bought a utility jacket.   I would not wear it.
    I too, feel ridiculous in off the shoulder tops as well as the cold shoulders. All those boots are gorgeous, so many shoes…so little time! LOL

  17. I think I am the only reader that bought a utility jacket and loved it! LOL! I got mine at Old Navy and it has a cinched waist (I am pear shaped), so I wear it a lot in the spring and fall. That being said, I must have tried on a ton of moto jackets, and they just don’t look good on me. I love that cocktail dress but understand if you don’t have anywhere to wear it why it isn’t a good purchase. I was just going through my closet and had a few of those moments where I was like – why did I buy this again? Lesson learned. 🙂

  18. I love this type of post, it:
    1. Helps me to know I’m not the only one that makes fashion mistakes
    2. Helps me determine why I do, and adjust. Off the shoulder tops and leopard boots are too fussy for me too!

  19. Great post. I think we all have a situation like yours, we buy the item and then for whatever reason it doesn’t get worn as much as we thought we would. What athletic shoe do you run in?

  20. Thank you for this post! It’s nice to know I’m not alone in making purchases that don’t quite work out. Your blog and online shopping have helped significantly – my purchases are much more strategic and thoughtful than the days when I occasionally trudged to the mall and just bought whatever fit or was on sale!
    I’m laughing about the Trouve tie-front. That was my only purchase last year that I barely wore. Note to self: don’t buy anything body-con if you don’t want to wear a smoothing undergarment with it!! Lesson learned 😀

  21. I love this type of post, it:
    1. Helps me to know I’m not the only one that makes fashion mistakes, a even a professional does occasionally. 🙂
    2. Helps me determine why I do, and adjust. Off the shoulder tops and leopard boots are too fussy for me too!

  22. Love this post! Makes me feel so much better about some things hanging in my closet that still have the tags on them. Also makes me realize maybe I should just let them go onto someone who would use and enjoy them and just count them as “lessons learned”. I appreciate how open and honest you are about all the things you discuss in your blog.

  23. I bought that tie blouse and wore it a few times with a pattern skirt I had but it never looked “great” with it; also probably going to let it go. The off the shoulder top looks great on you – maybe give it another try!

  24. Another top notch post, Jo-Lynne! Your explanations as to why something didn’t work and why you originally thought the piece would be useful are so helpful. I also appreciate the helpful input from other readers. It seems like I remember you found more uses for the Brahmin bag during early spring- maybe it’s just light colored and shiny for this time of year? Interesting that a lot of readers (including me!) find utility jackets a bit “sloppy” or something. 
    I’d love a post like this for each season! I agree with other readers- my day is always better once I have read your post. Enjoy the concert- love her music! 

  25. Such a great post!  I have a similar satchel that I haven’t used ONCE!  And lovely shoes that I just don’t wear (I choose footwear first, then pants, then top because of weather/walking).  I feel absolved of my shopping “sins” after reading your  post–hahaha.  The cocktail dress is so gorgeous–you will find places to wear that for sure in the next ten years–it’s timeless.  Thanks for your honesty!!

  26. This was a very interesting post.  I’m glad I’m not the only one  buying things that don’t end up working out.  I try to be intentional about my purchases, but sometimes something just catches my eye and I think I neeeed it.  And I find out I really didn’t. Ha. Like scarves…how many do I really need, but the different colors/patterns call to me!   I do think I’m in the minorty about the utility jackets, though.  I have several and I wear them all the time.  Spring and Fall for sure, and I even wear them over a sweater on a milder winter day.  They are one of my favorite things in my closet.  But, I live in a very casual area and I live a casual lifestyle, so they work well for me.  Thanks for sharing with us.  It was very insightful!

    1. I’m glad they work for you. I think they’re cute. What area do you live in? LIke what type of climate? Here I feel it’s always too hot for one or too cold for it. Maybe it makes more sense for people with milder winters?

      1. I’m in Southwest Washington.   I can wear my utility jackets almost all of Spring and Fall for sure because we have so many of those “light jacket” days.  In fact, I can wear a utility jacket up until June at times!  

  27. Thank you for doing this post! I now know I’m in good company purchasing clothes ?I never or rarely wear. My husband looked at my donate pile yesterday and commented “ Did you ever use that purse”. I carried it once. Should never have bought it.
    You might carry your Brahmin purse more in the spring when you wear more light colours. I purchased the light one and put it away for the winter. I hope to carry it more come spring. 
    I never bought into the off the shoulder trend. It just seemed like trying too hard and I hate fiddling with my clothes. If I had, I’m sure they would be in my donate bin, too.
    Live and Learn? I doubt it! 

      1. I first thought a great FALL bag.  Do keep it.  You just wear so many COOL colors in Winter is why I think you aren’t using it.  

  28. Marvellous post, thank you!  The twill skirt I bought loved it wore it twice.  Not my best purchase either.   I found a different brand and bought a utility vest, it is more fitted I have wore it to death but the utility jacket I bought at the same time is gathering dust. It is all about the shape.  Thanks for giving us permission to critique our own purchases. 

  29. Loved today’s post and your blog, 
    Thanks for sharing your thoughts on those particular items and how they didn’t work in your life.  Your comments made a lot of sense to me. 

  30. This is a really helpful post, as others have said. It’s nice to see various items and hear you say “why” they might not have worked. That skirt–it’s the type of item I want for summer b/c I think it is better for me (at my age!) than wearing shorts everywhere but would be cooler (as in temperature) than wearing pants or jeans sometimes. Yet, those types of skirts have a tendency to look dowdy; something about where the hem falls. Too short and it looks inappropriate, but too long and it looks matronly?? Hard to find that perfect fit. Utility jackets are tricky as well. Tons of bloggers style them and they look so cute–but are they really wearing them ALL day?? I tend to need and want a jacket that is flattering and matches what I’m wearing, but I know I won’t need it on when I’m indoors. I’ve gotten 2 of the army green type jackets; one from the GAP that was just unflattering and too sloppy-looking. Then I found one at J Crew Factory that was a bit more structured and have used it frequently.

    1. Yes, I think that is part of the issue for me too. I style them as part of the outfit, but they aren’t practical to wear inside, but when I take it off, it’s too plain underneath? Or something.

      I do like the idea of wearing a casual skirt as a shorts alternative in summer. I’m going to try to find more options this year.

  31. Great post. This helps a lot. I am still working on buying pieces that work with my lifestyle so that I get the most use out of them. Thanks for the input on the utility jacket. I have debated for over a year whether or not to buy one, and you just saved me from a unnecessary purchase. I totally understand what you are saying about thinking you should buy one because everyone says so, and I also like more structure to my jackets. So, now I know. Have a great Thursday!

  32. Oh my goodness – after reading this post and the comments I feel so much better about not having a utility jacket in my closet! It seems like they’ve been everywhere for a few years now but i could never make one work on my short waited hourglass figure. Moto jackets on the other hand – thanks to you I own 3 of them! I look for any excuse to wear one! Wish I had an excuse to wear that sequined dress though – it’s gorgeous on you!

    Really appreciate you taking time to write this post. In fact, I’ve really enjoyed the 5 different ways to wear posts as well. Good to get ideas of why something doesn’t work as well as ways to get more use out of the items that do!

    1. LOL, I am also short-waisted hourglass, so I guess we’ve finally landed in the problem. They look cute on a straighter figure, and maybe for pears??? I dunno, the pears will need to chime in. They definitely work for some people. I also had a few other revelations after reading through these comments. I don’t usually wear spring jackets, and I can never decide if they’re part of the outfit or not. By the time it is nice enough for a utility jacket, I’m ready to go sans coat. Also, the olive color doesn’t work with of my wardrobe as much as, say, grey. I do have a grey utility jacket that I love and have worn, but it’s lightweight and maybe even has some linen in it, and also has more shape to it, and it’s more comfortable to keep on as a part of the outfit. ANYWHO. Thanks for commenting!

    1. Very interesting! I love the look of a low-rise bootcut but I just don’t find them very practical. For me, they’re a going-out look b/c I will only wear them with heels. I actually hope they do get popular again, but I want skinnies to stick around too.

  33. I love everything about this post!  You help give voice to what I face in my closet.  I’m getting  better (thanks to you) at identifying what works and what doesn’t—-and WHY.  I love that WHBM off the shoulder top, too, but I wouldn’t be comfortable wearing it either.  Fantastic post!

  34. GREAT post JoLynne! Honestly this is so much work and great content you give us and so very helpful! Thanks for being so transparent and sharing with us what works for you and what doesn’t. Makes me feel not so bad for buying things sometime that don’t work when I learn that my fave fashion blogger makes the same mistakes sometimes too! I love the utility jacket on you, maybe give it another try. The utility skirt is frumpy, needs to be a tad shorter and would be perfect. I agree with the leopard boots too, they look fussy (and anything leopard is always a go-to for me!) I would not wear them either. I love the off the shoulder blouse, so pretty on you! If you sell it, I want it! I think it would be SO cute for a fun date night. What size? Let me know if you let it go! I remember when you first posted it how much I loved it. Thanks again for empowering women with great fashion posts, keep doing what you’re doing!! Have fun tonight!

    1. I will have to see if I still have it, lol!!! I can’t remember if I saved it or not… but I feel like I did.

      And yeah, I had a shorter olive utility skirt in a slightly lighter weight fabric that I wore ALL THE TIME for several summers, and I was so sad when I had to let it go — it was faded and had a rip in the pocket, haha! I think I was hoping this would replace it, but it wasn’t quite the right cut/length for me.

  35. I’m in my 50s and have 5 utility jackets along with jackets in other styles. My favorite jackets are the trucker and more fitted styles, though. I am VERY fair-skinned and sensitive to sunscreen so I ALWAYS wear long-sleeves if I am outdoors from sunrise to sunset. Even on rainy days, 80% of the suns rays are reaching the ground. I’ve been sunburned just going to the mailbox ! So, for health reasons, I decided that sunscreen wasn’t something I wanted to wear on a regular basis and it was ruining my clothing and everything it touched!

    Because of menopause, I focus on wearing light layers to help regulate my body temperature. I no longer need a heavy coat for winter in my area. I have found that a down vest worn with either a cardigan and/or a utility jacket, with scarves and gloves, keeps me sufficiently warm. In the summer, I pair the lighter weight ones with a sleeveless top which works very well.

  36. I too have a utility jacket that I never wear. It’s super cute! I think it’s about to go to the consignment store. And yes, off-the-shoulder is a pain. I got rid of all of mine, too.

    But keep that gorgeous cocktail dress! I think you’ll have an event sometime for it!

    Re: the black boots – I think the sole doesn’t go with the top of the boot, and that’s why you don’t wear them. They can’t decide whether they’re dressy or casual.

    1. Heehee… that is funny. And I see your point, but I did like them when I styled them: https://jolynneshane.com/3-fall-looks-from-the-nordstrom-anniversary-sale.html and here: https://jolynneshane.com/evergreen.html

      Ironically, I did black jeans and a green sweater both times. I think the leopard bag helps pull the sole of the boot into the look. And in the cardigan look, the lighter top pulls in the lighter sole maybe? Both looks are a cross between dressy and casual that I think works with the boot.

      I am totally analyzing this now, LOL. I also pulled the boots out of their box and stood them up in my closet this morning so I’ll see them when I’m putting outfits together.

      1. I absolutely love mine! Bought them because of your Nordstrom Anniversary post!  It’s the uniqueness of them that I was drawn to. They have not disappointed. So comfy to walk in and a good grip on the bottom. I vote keep them! 

  37. Great post – really interesting.  I can see how some of that stuff doesn’t quite work (not that it’s bad, it’s just not as good as some other stuff).  Its worth forcing yourself outside your comfort zone here or there, but sometimes it’s okay to accept that however good something looks on the hanger (or on someone else), it’s not for you.  I feel that way about utility jackets and off the shoulder (both too young to me), and bootcut jeans (they don’t flatter my body like skinnies do), but I forced myself to wear the converses the first time, and still have to force myself to wear the jean jacket (both purchased because of how good they look on you – thankyouverymuch!), and I like them both.  Unfortunately, you can’t always tell in advance how a purchase will fare.  I guess that’s part of why I mostly bargain shop!  Btw, I love that skirt, but think it’s too big on you (too long).  Not sure if it’s worth it, but I’d consider getting it shortened.

    1. I think it is so true that you can’t always tell in advance how a purchase will fare. With some things, you just have to give it a go, and sometimes you are surprised by how much you love it, and other times it sits in your closet glaring at you.

      That’s why I tell people to try a new trend in a cheap version, and if they love it, they can always buy a better quality one. I do that sometimes. If you’re good at thrifting and bargain shopping, it’s definitely the way to go.

      I’m glad you ended up liking the Converse and the denim jacket. I’ve loved a denim jacket as long as I can remember, but I did have to talk myself into trying the Converse. Once I finally did, I loved them.

  38. I really enjoyed this post. It helped as I could easily see your problem or issues with each item. I have made similar purchases in the past. Reading your analysis I believe will help me think through future purchases better. Thanks 

  39. This has to be the most identifiable post I’ve ever read!! After reading your post on purging your closet earlier this month, I stared at 2 leather moto jackets telling them they just don’t belong with me (and I felt relieved to pass them on). Thanks for sharing! 

  40. GREAT POST! Like others have commented, it’s nice to know even those in the business can misstep a bit with purchases. Over the last year, I’ve purchased and returned three different off-the-shoulder tops. Like you, I think they’re cute but feel ridiculous when I put them on! I love the look of utility jackets and have an inexpensive one from Old Navy that I hold onto, mostly to remind myself I already have one I don’t wear when I see a blogger feature one I just HAVE TO have, lol! I don’t wear it because if it’s cold, it’s not a warm enough layer, and if it’s warm, I think a jacket looks overdone. I think the utility skirt would be cute if it were cut more like your AG denim skirt (which I purchased because of you, thank you very much!) but is too long and wide as is to be flattering. Lastly, WHYYYYYY are you not wearing those gorgeous Blondo boots??? They are gorgeous 🙂

    1. YES THIS: if it’s cold, it’s not a warm enough layer, and if it’s warm, I think a jacket looks overdone.

      For some reason, that does not apply to moto jackets. In fact, I just ordered another one b/c I decided I wear the 2 I have enough to justify a 3rd. I think I like them b/c they’re slightly warmer than a utility jacket, and the edgy vibe appeals to me more than the outdoorsy vibe. Plus structure.

      I agree that I need a cargo skirt that fits like the AG denim skirt. And I just put the boots front and center in my closet. I think they’ll get some use now. 🙂

  41. I love that blue dress so much. Maybe you can wear it to a wedding.

    To be honest, my issue is buying too many sweaters. I get sucked in by how pretty they are. We do get cold temperatures, but our winters are fairly short. And caring for sweaters is a hassle (hand wash, find a place to spread them out to dry, etc.). I find I get more wear from my long sleeve tees and tops, and feminine-style sweatshirts. A few pretty sweaters would be plenty. I need to be more disciplined in my shopping.

  42. Great post, agree with so many of your comments. #3 – I failed at leopard boots, could never get comfortable with how busy my feet looked; #4 utility jacket – I wear my hunter green one sporadically, the cinched waist makes me rethink wearing it every time but as long as I keep it loose it works; #5 knee high boots – any black boots I buy need to have a black heel; #8 satchel – my go to handbag style, but I am so particular in my must haves…one or more outside slip/zipper pocket(s), top zipper closure, footed bottom and a handle drop that I could carry on my shoulder when needed; can’t wait for your house photos!

  43. My daughter really LOVED that cocktail dress when she was looking over my shoulder. I really like the twill skirt. I need some summer skirts or I just wear my jean cut-offs all the time. I’ve been making a point to wear my pretty shoes b/c I’m about to have to wear flats for a couple of months….though, now that I think about it, I haven’t worn my Vince Camuto velvet pumps since the Christmas Eve service. Shame on me!

  44. I bought the Eliza J sequin dress base on your review and just wore it for new years Eve. It was so comfortable and just enough bling to make it special . Dont give up on it!!

  45. Okay……Please don’t get rid of the off the shoulder blouse.  That is one of my favorite pictures and outfits on you.  You look gorgeous in that blouse and it looks so great with the white jeans and sandals and your coloring.  You should definitely keep it and wear it this Spring.  Love it.  Also wear the black boots with the wood heel more.  They are great and I don’t think you should worry about the casual/dressiness of them. They’d be great with so many of your jeans and tops.  I’m the same way as you. I just thought I needed a utility jacket.  I don’t look good in the army green and have a trench in beige, so I opted for a muted red utility from GAP that I bought in the Fall two years ago. I think I’ve worn it twice and still can’t figure out why.  Partly the color, as I feel it needs neutral underneath, but I just don’t tend to grab the style either.  Crazy huh?  As for the army green utility skirt, I think you made the right decision. I think it looks dumpy for some reason and doesn’t show off your figure like it is.  If you keep, altar.  🙂  I won’t go on and on but you are right, its not they aren’t great items, if they don’t work for your lifestyle or nowhere to where them, they just take up space.  I have too much of that right now.  Enjoyed listening to your LIVE this morning.  🙂  Loved the lavender sweater on you. Thanks for answering my question.  It was the first one. 🙂 LOL  I plan to keep my tunics for skinny jeans.  I sure hope skinny jeans don’t go out.  I love them.  Do not like the wide crop at all on my 5’3″ frame.  

  46. Jo-Lynne, You know what I really like and appreciate about this post?  You have shown that even fashion bloggers make mistake purchases, for whatever reason.  Thank you!!  I know that I’ve learned so much from you over the years, and this post is so helpful.  I hope you had an awesome day, and have a blast tonight.  🍷😉

  47. Jo-Lynne – This is such a great and oh, so helpful post! I have been preparing myself to purge my closet but have hesitated because “I just might need that” for some unknown occassion?? You have helped me realize that if I don’t wear or love an item, someone else might! Thank you for such an informative post! Enjoy the concert!

    1. Glad it’s helpful! Also, try the “maybe” bin if you’re unsure about letting something go. Then it’s not cluttering your closet, but you can retrieve it if you want it. I go thru that bin a couple times a year, and often I’ve forgotten about it all and didn’t miss any of it, but I do go and retrieve things from time to time.

  48. Great post!  I empathize about buying things that are other people’s must haves…Breton shirts, crisp white blouse, plain white tee, ballet flats…I own them and never wear them.  I would not make a good French girl.  Although I do sport a beret occasionally…

  49. Great post. Love my utility jacket-s. Here’s the funny thing, I wear them like crazy up at the lake where life is lazy but I still like to look put together….with little effort. The ones I keep at home in the Chi-town burbs don’t get much use. Perhaps I should haul them all up north.  I first subscribed to your blog in late summer so I’ve missed some of these. When I first saw the pic of the WHBM off shoulder top I loved it. (It looks FAB on you.) Now I’m thinking I dodged a bullet because I feel silly in off the shoulder tops like I’m trying too hard at 58. Those I have I wear up but that black band of lace looks like it might not work. Not a fan of the utility skirt, it’s a tad bit dowdy. Not crazy about those light jeans.  I stay away from anything that may look naked from 50 ft off. I figure it’s not necessary to scare people. LOL. Love the cocktail dress, you’ll find the perfect occasion. Love your blog, you help me so much & I truly appreciate it. 

  50. I LOVE my utility jackets – I have several (olive green, gray, & a cute coral I bought at old navy last summer) and I wear them a lot. But I’m in So CA and those types of jackets are a cute extra layer when it’s a little chilly out but you don’t need a coat or long sleeves. 😊

  51. This was a cool post and glad to know even Fashion bloggers have a few misses. I think I’m going to start adopting the Marie Kondo question and start asking myself if something gives me “JOY” before I buy it or get rid of it. I also wondered about the Vince Camuto sandal/booties that every blogged styled. Do you still like and wear them? Of course I know its probably a bit too chilly for open toe booties in your area. Anyway, I did buy them but returned them because I felt the 4 inch heel was too steep and the ankle strap was a bit wide around my ankles. But now they are on sale and I’m considering trying them again because I really loved them 🤔

    1. Hey Gloria, I do love them! I kept them, hoping they carry them again this spring so I can wear them and link to them. I found them very comfortable, even with that heel, and stable, and the grey color seems to go with so much. I actually left them in my closet all winter, and I was just looking at them, thinking I wish we had a mild day so I could wear them, haha! Then I saw this sale. The sale does make me fear they won’t be back this spring, tho. 🙁

  52. I feel exactly the same about utility jackets. I had 2 (just got rid of 1) and a vest. I just don’t reach for them either. I prefer a sweater…so much more comfortable. I also feel vindicated knowing the Brahmin bag has been all you thought it would be. I bought it, loaded it, and just knew I wasn’t going to love it, so I took it back. Sometimes I think I’m getting better about being more discriminate, but other times #epicfail. LOL

  53. Totally get it. I purchased that Brahmin purse in black. LOVED IT! Sexiest ever. It sat on display since August. I returned it last week. I had no occasion to wear it. I purchased that Mango bag instead…..wear it every day (almost).

  54. I love this post so much! I bought the hobo style Brahmin in the black from the Anniversary sale and I’ve been carrying all winter! I debated on the lighter color but I’m glad I picked the darker one! I hope you keep it and try in the Spring it’s such a pretty bag! My handbag obsession is similar to yours lol! And I’ve got so many cocktail dresses hanging in my closet too for who knows what! It’s just in case we get a fancy spur of the moment invite right haha! Love your blog! Happy 2019! 

  55. I was laughing at the dress and dressy top! I always seem to want to buy dressier pieces that I never really wear.  It helped when I did the Adore your Wardrobe lifestyle inventory — then I realized I wear mostly business casual clothes so it has helped stop me from buying fancy stuff!  Love your posts! ALL of them!  Thank you!

  56. Love, love, love the red boots, but I can also see the issue with styling them. Maybe straight leg or cropped style jeans? Look forward to seeing what you do with them. 

  57. Love this post!! I have many things in my closet that when I pull them out to wear, I feel like I have a little bubble saying “what was I thinking when I bought this”, LOL.
    Thanks for posing this I’m sure many of us feel the pain!

  58. Ha! I bought the 7 for All Mankind agave jeans BECAUSE of your post, and I love them and wear them all the time. I might have to go check out the pink color now.

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