Well, friends! It’s been QUITE a while since my last try-on haul, and I’ve saved up a bunch of pictures, so this one is quite a mish-mosh of styles and clothing items.
Shopping has been interesting lately, and not just because I’m dressing a slightly different body than I was last summer. I’m also not really feeling drawn to the current trends. They either don’t work for my body type or my personal style, or they just look silly and juvenile to me.
It also seems like the variety and quality at some of my favorites stores is lacking, and I’m sure inflation and supply chain issues aren’t helping matters. All that to say, I’m returning more than I’m keeping these days, but for better or for worse, I’m bringing you along for the ride!
Early Summer Try-On Haul
SIZING NOTES: I’m 5’5″ and I usually wear a small in tops, a 28 or 29 in jeans, and a size 8 shoe. My weight has been up and down since my surgery, and more up than down… ahem. I’ll do my best to guide on on sizing, but everything is fitting a bit snug these days.
It takes a good six months after breast reduction surgery to see your final shape and size, but I can already tell a difference in my clothes. It’s not as significant as I thought it might be, though. I think that’s because I wore such a good bra before. If you need a bra that is supportive and gives a nice shape under clothing, I highly recommend this one.
Eileen Fisher Organic Stretch Pima Cotton Tank Dress (XS)
at Nordstrom // at Neimans // slides (8) // earrings // bracelet c/o
I’ve been looking to add another classic, versatile, casual dress to my summer wardrobe so I ordered two Eileen Fisher dresses to try. I already have the one in the berry color that I wear a lot, so I ordered the black.
The fabric is a stretchy pima cotton, so it’s a little thicker than the jersey fabric of the other Eileen Fisher dress I have, but I don’t mind it.
It is such a nice quality and skims the body without being too clingy, and it has a bit of structure through the waist that is flattering. I’ve already worn this dress a few times, and you can see more of it in yesterday’s post.
Eileen Fisher dresses typically run large, so I tried both the small and XS, but I kept the XS. The small looked a bit roomy around the armholes and through the back.
Eileen Fisher V-Neck Stretch Jersey Dress (XS)
dress (XS) // slides (8) // earrings // bracelet c/o
This is the other Eileen Fisher dress that I ordered. It’s a lighter jersey fabric with a really nice drape. I typically prefer a v-neck to the high round neck, and the midi style is more on trend, but I just couldn’t fall in love with this one.
I don’t like how high the v-neck is, and it seems to make my hips look wider than they are. Here’s how it looks with a denim jacket on top.
That helps give it some structure, but it still doesn’t feel like me. If it weren’t so pricey, I might have kept it to have some variety in my wardrobe; but at this price point, I need to love it, so it went back.
All that said, it’s very well made and nice quality, so if you like this style, it’s worth a try.
Lou & Grey Signaturesoft V-Neck Pocket Dress (S)
at LOFT // sandals (8) // necklace
I ordered this for a more casual option. It’s what I would describe as a lightweight sweatshirt material, and I think the styling is really cute with the rolled sleeves and the curved hemline. It’s a tad short for my comfort zone, but otherwise I like it a lot.
If I hadn’t looked at the rear view, I might have kept it, but I don’t really like how it fits over the hips. It might make a good swim coverup, but I can’t see wearing it anywhere else, so I ended up returning it.
That said, I recommend trying it if you like it. It would probably look really cute on someone who isn’t quite so curvy. It’s currently 30% off with code LOVEIT, and it runs true to size.
LOFT Floral Godet Double V Midi Dress (S)
dress // sandals (8) // necklace
This is a nice option for something a little dressier. I can see wearing this to church or out to dinner, and maybe some of you could wear it to work, depending on the dress code.
I feel like it’s relatively flattering, but I wish it fit more closely through the waist. I tried tying it tighter to cinch the waist a bit more, but it didn’t quite do the trick. If it was a solid color, I might have kept it anyway, but I felt like the print was a little bit much for me, so I sent it back.
Loveappella V-Neck Jersey Maxi Dress (M)
at Nordstrom // sandals (7.5)
I was really excited to try this dress because it’s something I would not have considered before my surgery. It’s very pretty, but I wish the armholes weren’t cut in so far at the back. I have broad shoulders, so I look better when sleeveless dresses are cut closer to the arms (like the Eileen Fisher dresses).
Other than that, I do think this is very flattering. I like how it features my waist without overemphasizing my hips.
It is quite low-cut in the front, so I’d probably only wear it out with Paul or maybe on vacation, but we don’t have anything planned in the near future that would be an appropriate venue.
I’m also a bit unsure about the length. Maxi dresses aren’t really out of style, per se, but the midi length looks more current to me. I would want to hem this dress to wear with flats to give it a more casual vibe, but since I don’t have an occasion for it, I sent it back.
Not to say that I don’t recommend it if you like it, it just doesn’t really fit my lifestyle at the moment.
Chelsea28 Floral Print Halter Dress (M)
at Nordstrom // sandals (8)
This dress came in my last Trunk Club delivery. It’s a style I wouldn’t have considered before my breast reduction surgery because it’s not regular bra-friendly, and the gathered fabric in the chest area makes me look larger than I am, so I was eager to try it.
While it fits okay, I still don’t like that all that material in the chest area, and the halter style seems to accentuate my broad shoulders. I also feel like the color washes me out. So yeah, I sent it back.
Jeffrey Campbell Rowboat Ankle Strap Sandal (size 8)
These shoes also came in my trunk, and the rattan material is so summery and fun. It’s a little rough against the skin, though, especially the ankle strap. And I also don’t love how high the ankle strap sits on my leg.
I’m afraid they will cause chafing and maybe blisters, so I sent them back; but now that I’m looking at them, I’m wishing I’d given them a chance… Does anyone have these? I’d love to know how they work for you.
Rails Julia Tie Strap Stripe Organic Cotton Blend Dress (M)
at Nordstrom // at Saks // sandals (7.5)
I knew when I pulled this dress out of my trunk, it wasn’t going to work for me. It’s way too froo-froo for my tastes, but it’s also very high quality — I could tell just by the look and feel of the fabric.
I decided to try it on for kicks and giggles, and I actually like it more than I thought I would, but I know I’d never wear it. I sent it back, but if it’s your style, I recommend trying it. It’s a gorgeous dress.
Old Navy Cotton-Poplin Cami Maxi Swing Dress (S)
Okey dokey, another dress! Obviously, I wouldn’t wear this bra with it, but I don’t have a strapless bra yet for my new size.
This one is from Old Navy, and you can really see the difference in quality between this one and the ones above. Not only in the fabric and seaming, but also the way it fits in the chest. It’s definitely not made with curves in mind.
If you’re smaller on top, it might work for you, but it does nothing for me. Needless to say, this went back.
Boden Effie V-Neck Jersey Dress
This dress is from Boden, and these pictures make me laugh. I don’t know why I ordered this print; it is so not me. Maybe 15 years ago, I would have worn it, but these days I’m definitely into more understated patterns. I do like the colors, though.
As for the styling, I’m very disappointed in the way it’s cut through the chest. It’s way too low to wear without a tank underneath, and that ruins the whole effect. (I’m wearing this slip, which obviously looks ridiculous.) Needless to say, this dress also went back.
Kiara V-Neck T-Shirt Short Dress (S)
at Evereve // sandals // earrings // necklace // bracelet
The next few dresses are from Evereve. I thought this style might work for me, and it still might if I size up, but this one is way too small.
It’s a really comfortable knit jersey fabric, and I like the olive color. I also appreciate that it’s regular bra-friendly, and I like the shape of the v-neck and the wide drawstring elastic waistband. I returned it, but I’d love to try the medium.
Zelda Dress (S)
at Evereve // sandals (8) // earrings // necklace // bracelet
This is a very similar style to the one above, but it’s cut a lot more generously. The fabric is a lyocell weave, which I’m assuming is some type of rayon.
It’s lightweight and crisp but still substantial and not see-through. I also appreciate the attention to detail — the gathered yoke across the back and the smocked waistband.
I like that there is no drawstring at the waist; it keeps it simple and unfussy. I also tried it with these coral sandals, to show you how it would look with a pop of color. I think it’s fun to wear a colored shoe with a black dress in the summertime.
And I would probably leave the tie neck open, as I did above, but here is how it looks if you sort of half-tie it. I wouldn’t do a bow, but I might do this quick loop to hold it together in the front.
I think I might keep this one. It’s a little boxy and baggy to be flattering, almost as if I could size down, but I highly doubt that would work. I dunno, I’m undecided… what say you???
Roan + Ryan Arabella Mini Dress (S)
at Evereve // sandals // earrings // necklace // bracelet
And this is another Evereve dress. I’m not really sure why I ordered this; it isn’t my style, but it’s really cute.
I can’t think of much to say about this. I can appreciate that it’s flattering, but it’s just not me. If it’s YOU, you should order it. It has a nice fit and feel, and it’s very much on trend right now. I’d say it runs true to size.
Good Vibes Tee
at Evereve (S) // jeans (29) // sandals (8) // earrings
Okay, so now I’m back in my comfort zone! I love this t-shirt, in fact, I already wore it once. It’s just a really cute motif, I like the summery colors on the grey marl background.
It has that casual-cool vibe that is so easy to throw on and go in the summertime. I’m wearing the small, and it just fits. I would probably have needed to size up before my surgery. This one’s definitely a keeper!
Fresh Cut Denim Roll Shorts In Light Indigo Wash (28)
at LOFT // tee (S) // Birks (38)
I picked up these shorts at LOFT when I was shopping in-store a few weeks back I like the super light wash, and they’re surprisingly soft and comfortable for the price point.
These shorts have a 3 1/2″ inseam, and they’re 30% off with code LOVEIT. Somehow I managed to fit into the size 28, even though I’ve put on some weight since my surgery, so I would say they’re true to size, or size down if in between.
Striped Sweater Tank (S)
at LOFT // shorts (6) // sandals (8)
I love a sweater tank, and I was drawn to these bright colors, but the fit on this is a bit weird. It’s almost too tight in the waist or something, and the placement of the stripes is a bit odd. I do like how it is cut around the arms and neckline, though. I’m undecided on this one. What do you think?
LOFT Monroe Chino Shorts (6)
shorts // sweater tank (S) // sandals (8)
And these shorts were a nice surprise. I could never wear their Riviera shorts; they were always too wide in the leg opening, but they seem to have fixed that with this Monroe style. They have a 10 1/4″ rise and a 4″ inseam. I wish they offered a leg opening measurement, but they don’t. They’re true to size, or size down if in between; I’m in the size 8.
Twist Scoop Neck Tank Top (S)
at LOFT // shorts (6) // sandals (8)
I thought this was really cute; it reminds me of the Treasure & Bond twist detail tee that I like so much, but the fabric isn’t nearly as soft. Still, it’s a cute top, and I really like the fit.
LOFT Denim Roll Shorts In Original Mid Indigo Wash
tank (S) // shorts (6) // sandals (8)
These easy roll hem denim shorts are just a good classic pair of shorts, for those who like the shorter lengths. They have a 10 1/2″ rise and a 3 1/2″ inseam. They’re soft and comfortable, and they run true to size, or size down if in between.
Cloth & Stone Shirred Neck Top (S)
at Evereve // jeans (29) // sandals (8) // earrings
Besides the fact that this shirt needs a good steaming, I think it’s really cute! I wasn’t sure how it would fit; in the past, tops like this in this brand were too tight across the chest, but it works for me now.
I like the shirred neck detail and split neckline. I usually just let the ties hang open with tops like this.
It has a pretty exaggerated curved hemline, so I tried it both tucked and front-tucked. I think I like it best with a front tuck.
This one’s a keeper! I need some color in my closet, and I think this will be nice one to have. It’s cute with blue jeans like this, or I can dress it up with white jeans for church.
Hudson Nico Straight Ankle
These jeans are a nice option for summer. I like the straight cut with the rolled hem and the slightly distressed wash. They have a 9 1/4″ front rise, which is lower than most these days, but still a mid-rise (definitely not what I’d consider low rise.)
And they have a 28″ inseam with a 14″ leg opening, so that’s an ankle length on me with a fairly straight leg. I highly recommend getting to know your ideal inseam and leg opening measurements; it makes online shopping so much easier.
I ordered the 28 and 29 to try, expecting the 28 to fit because in the past, I found Hudson denim to run big, but in this case, I definitely needed the 29. The last thing I need in my life is another pair of jeans, but these are different than anything I have, so I think I’m going to keep them.
Frame Oversize Silk T-Shirt
at Nordstrom (S) // at Neiman Marcus (S) // at Nordstrom Rack (S) // jeans (28) // sandals (8)
This top is an indulgence, for sure. One of you dear readers recommended it to me, so when I saw it was on sale, I ordered it to try. I didn’t expect to like it so much, but it’s such a great little top!
It’s made of washable silk, so it’s definitely a quality piece unlike anything I have. I love the dolman cut sleeves with the rolled hem, and the boxy shape with the side vents. The trim around the neck is a nice detail as well.
VERDICT: Since I’m struggling so much to find tops I like, I decided to keep it. I can see having this in my closet for years.
WHBM Matte Jersey Kimono Tee
top (S) // jeans (29) // sandals (7.5) // earrings // necklace // bracelet
So this is my attempt to add some color to my closet. I can’t believe I’m saying it, but I’m getting bored with all the neutrals. I thought this might be cute for a change, and I do like the color, but the kimono style sleeves look like I’m trying to hide something.
Since my arms are the thinnest part of my body, I try not to overwhelm them with tons of fabric like this. That said, if you do like to cover your upper arms, this might be a good choice for you!
I was unsure, so I came down and asked Paul what he thought. I turned in all directions and moved my arms around, and he studied it for a bit, and then he was like, No, you can do better.
I guess I should have known I was trying too hard to like it, but sometimes you just need a second opinion to confirm what you already knew.
WHBM Glamgetter Tee
top (S) // jeans (29) // sandals (7.5) // earrings // necklace // bracelet
This is yet another attempt to add color to my closet, but I just can’t love this shirt, as pretty as the color is. The fabric is a stretchy jersey material, and the v-neckline is pretty, but I don’t care for the curved hemline.
I want to like the flutter sleeves, but there’s something about them that just feels off to me. Once again, I came downstairs to see what Paul thought.
I had barely walked into the room before he was like, No. Just, no. So that was that!
WHBM Matte Jersey Lace-Up Tank
top (S) // jeans (29) // sandals (7.5) // earrings // necklace // bracelet
This is the third top I ordered from White House Black Market. It’s not a color, but it’s a print… so that’s something, right? I would rather have a straight hemline, but I like the lace-up detail and the way it’s cut through the arms and shoulders. I definitely prefer this one front-tucked.
This time when I came downstairs, Paul was like, Yes! That’s the one. Third time’s a charm!
This is the Fossil Bis color way, and the print is in gold, so it’s begging to be paired with gold shoes. I didn’t take the time to change, but I will definitely wear this with my Sam Edelman Kia sandals in the Gold Leaf.
Old Navy High-Waisted O.G. Straight Cut-Off Jean Shorts (size 8)
Okay bringing the price points down a notch, I ordered these shorts from Old Navy when I saw another blogger recommend them. They’re actually pretty impressive for the price point!
The wash is a little funky, especially around the waist there in the front, but if I wear my shirt untucked, it won’t be noticeable, and it’s not quite a deal breaker.
I really like the 7″ inseam. It’s very much on trend, and I think it should be flattering on most women. Plus, you can cuff them if you want them shorter.
These run true to size, or size up if in between. I ordered the 6 and 8, and I’m keeping the 8.
CeCe Smock Trim Tee
tee (S) // shorts (6) // sandals (8)
This tee came in my Trunk Club, and it’s okay, but those puff sleeves and the high neck just look really juvenile to me. Plus, it’s just not very flattering with my wide shoulders and larger chest. Even with my reduction, I still have enough that I look best in more open necklines.
Ganni Floral Print Plissé Smocked Georgette Top
And this one is simply for your comic relief. WHAT. ON. EARTH. (It came from Trunk Club, in case you’re wondering!)
Bobeau Print Tie Neck Top
blouse (S) // pants (8) // sandals (7.5)
Another blouse from the Trunk Club. This one is marginally better than the others, at least it has that split neck with the ties that I like, but the sleeves are way too big and puffy and long. And the print… yeah, I’m just not feeling it.
Spanx On-the-Go Ankle Slim Straight Pant with Silver Lining Technology
Okay, so I ordered these after someone asked about them in my Facebook Group. I love my Spanx shorts, so I thought maybe these would be a hit as well.
I guess if you need white pants for work, these might be worthy of your consideration, but they remind me too much of a nurse’s uniform or something. Which I don’t even know why they make me think of that b/c nurses usually wear scrubs. Maybe a chef’s uniform? I dunno but I just can’t get into the white pants.
If you do like white pants, these fit nicely, and they are not see-through in the slightest. That silver lining technology is magical. They’re true to size for Spanx; I’m in the M (6-8).
Vince Camuto Ruffle Neck Sleeveless Georgette Blouse
blouse (S) // jeans (29) // sandals (7.5)
I ordered this blouse from Nordstrom ages ago, and it’s been on my rolling rack waiting to be tried on. I finally threw it on the other day with these white jeans, and while I didn’t like it at the time, I do like it in these pictures. Hmmm…. maybe I should reconsider it. I think it’s still sitting in my returns pile.
It comes in a bunch of colors, and it’s machine washable. Maybe I’ll try it in a color, since I’m sick of neutrals. It’s true to size; I’m in the small.
And that’s a wrap! I know, it was a lot, and I was rushing there at the end to get this up before I have to leave for an appointment. Have a wonderful and relaxing weekend, my friends!
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46 Responses
I’m glad I’m not the only one struggling with the current trends! I find clothing quality not what it once was and the trends juvenile and very overwhelming for my petite frame. I will be glad when the next fashion trends come along! I love your blog and recommendations!
I am having the hardest time with what is currently in the stores. Between the prairie dresses, the crazy sleeves, the weird cutouts and the wonky fits it’s getting harder and harder to find the good stuff. Thanks for taking one for the team and showing so many hits & misses, it really does help. Either I’m just old and cranky or I should just stay in my (neutrals) lane!
I’m glad I’m not the only one struggling to find dresses this year. I agree with your assessment of each item. My husband is like Paul in that he is good at providing honest feedback when I’m unsure. Thanks for sharing your hits and your misses!
I agree that so many of the new styles are juvenile – at least for the young 20 somethings. I really like them on the young and wish I could wear them, but I can’t – they look silly and like I’m trying too hard to look younger! I do like the striped sweater from Loft – you definitely should keep it. I do like the fossil top from WHBM and the last black top from Nordstrom – you should definitely keep it or order in a bright color. I also love the green, silk too recommended by a viewer. The dresses – I feel about them the same way you do about most of them. The prints are often just gaudy – kind of clownish.
Jo-Lynne,
Thanks so much for the try-on haul! And especially for the Spanx! I thought they looked great on you but I understand your feelings about white pants, as opposed to jeans. Now I’m afraid they’ll make me think of my mother if I buy them, as she was a fan of pull-on polyester white pants but with a much baggier leg! Not a bad thing to think of her but the pants weren’t stylish or flattering! 😉
I agree with many others about the current styles being too young and fluffy! Thank you for at least giving us an idea of how they look on a real shapely woman, and not just a young stick. I’ve been trying to find some dresses for attending the theater or a symphony and lucked out with one from CeCe (1 out of 3 tried). I can’t buy anything too fitting as I have saddlebags but no waist either so it’s a struggle!?
You are such a tremendous help!
I think the white pants could work if styled well, but I just don’t wear pants that often, and I love white jeans in the summer. I would be more likely to keep the Spanx pants in a darker color.
I”m not much of a dress person no matter the length BUT with the high v neck dress – the 2nd one I’m wondering if it was worn with a higher wedge heel if it would have worked? I’m with you I would have preferred a lower v neckline but if it had pockets I’d def consider with wedges
I think that’s a good point. Worth a try!
Its sooooo good to hear I’m not the only one frustrated with the styles and doing so many returns. I have a bunch to return right now. I need casual dresses, but the styles are just not good for me this season. I think they look best on the 20 somethings. As for the Eileen Fisher v-neck stretch Jersey dress in midi, I think it needs a heel. I find the midi’s look the best with the right sandal and heel height. I think the Kiara v-neck short dress would be cute if you’d size up. The Zelda dress I think maybe you could size down, but you may be in between. I just ordered the Zella Gwen Ponte tank dress in Navy Nightfall the other day, as I love the jumpsuit you have in it. I ordered the XS and it fits, but I think I might like a little more room and maybe the Small would be a tad longer. So, I’m waiting on it to arrive to decide, but I think you’d like it and you could get a different color. They had like 4 other colors I believe. The fabric is so soft and comfy. I love the LOFT light indigo denim shorts and also saw them in the store but I’m not trying on the 3 1/2″, as way too short for me. I’m just doing the 5″ this Summer and hoping I’ll feel confident enough to wear them. I think I’ve been wearing my shorts too long with the 7″ and feel frumpy and never have liked shorts. I too wanted to order the Old Navy denim shorts to try, but read the reviews and everyone says they unravel terrible, but at 7″ this could be a good thing. I didn’t realize they were 7″, if they are the same ones Cyndi styled. For the price if you like them I might order. Great post. It was a 2 coffee post. LOL Have a great weekend. PS Thanks for also sharing so many misses on the items. I agree with all the ones you didn’t like. I had to laugh at a few items.
I agree, a heel would definitely help that Eileen Fisher midi dress. I wanted it more for casual looks, but it’s worth a try before I return it. I could wear it to church with a low wedge heel, or out to dinner. But I also don’t care for that shallow v-neck.
Some great options here, thank you for sharing and linking. Black and white always looks great! I very much appreciate the “comic relief” blouse; I needed that comic relief today! 🙂
Just wondering where the navy tee is from you are wearing with the Old Navy Shorts. Love when you include the lower price point options and also available to you followers in Canada!
Thanks so much!
It’s this one, unfortunately no longer available – https://shopstyle.it/l/bHLoo
I’m so glad to hear I’m not the only one having trouble with the new trends this summer. I was starting to blame it on myself and getting older. Thanks Jolynne for being so honest. I often go to my husband to ask his opinion on something I’m wearing.
Getting older doesn’t help, but yeah, the current trends are tricky no matter what your age.
Hi Jo-Lynne, could you please let me know what is the black top you are wearing with the Old Navy shorts? I love the cap sleeve and neckline. Thank you also for trying on that Boden dress. I had been considering ordering it but now I won’t with that neckline! I’m bustier than you and a tiny bit shorter so it would be ridiculous. It’s too bad because I love that Boden jersey fabric – I have one black midi jersey sundress from a few years ago – and I have been looking for a nice but not too dressy dress to add to my closet, something that could be dressed up or down. I’m not even a dress person but I’d love to have a couple go-to’s in my closet. I wish Eileen Fisher would bring back your v neck dress that you have in the raspberry color. I regret not grabbing that style when it was available. Finally since you asked I think the Zelda dress is cute but kind of boxy as you say. Your Rails dress which is also short with the elastic waist is more flattering for example.
Sure, it’s from LOFT last year, so no longer available. https://shopstyle.it/l/bHLoo
I love it, it’s just a simple linen tee but the cut on it is perfection.
I think you have dresses that compliment you more than the dark Evereve one. I like the Vince ruffle top on you. I agree with Paul on the tops, and I like how you get his opinion. I do that with Larry and I’m glad we can trust their judgment. Thanks for the giggles with a few of the pieces you tried on for us 😉. Like you, I prefer midi length dresses. And I really like the striped sweater and shorts from Loft. You look very nice in the oufit.
Yeah, I think you’re right. The Zelda dress is okay, but I can do better. I guess I was wanting something a little different. Maybe I’ll try the XS before deciding for sure. Or maybe the medium in the olive one will work.
YES to the difficulties in the stores with finding garments that I like, which are appropriate and – especially – that FIT! I may try on clothes for an hour, only to find one top or dress that works. I appreciate your honesty and LOVE your blog. I read it every day. So glad you are recovering well after your surgery.
Thanks, Pam!
In regards to many of the “frilly and froo froo” dress styles out there, I think they look really cute on the 35 and younger girls. I know some people get upset about that and don’t want to put fashion in age categories anymore, but all the young ladies at my work wear those voluminous floral dresses and the shorter tiered puff sleeve dresses (like the white Evereve dress in your try-on haul) and they look adorable! But the same dress on a 55+ woman and it’s not the same; leans toward too juvenile. I’ve bought a few floral dresses lately and returned all of them (either the print was too much, sleeves too puffy, too many ruffles, etc….I just didn’t feel my most confident self. I bought 2 Biden dresses and they were awful as far as loud prints go. Looked so different online). I have to say that I really like that Loveappella maxi dress on you. I know maxis aren’t usually your thing but it’s very flattering. You could wear it for backyard summer parties, outdoor casual dining with chunky jewelry….. It’s very So CA style. I have one similar to it that I bought a couple years ago from Splendid that I still wear a lot.
I agree, while I like to say it’s more to personal style than age, I think it’s also fair to say that some styles tend to look best on the younger set.
Unfortunately, that Loveappella dress would be ridiculous at one of my backyard parties. We are very casual over here. 🙂
You really look cute in all the outfits – well maybe except for that one top. YIKES! I have all of a sudden become very disenchanted with the style trends. It’s like we are back in the 80s.
I have actually gone overboard on color this year with clothes, ;shoes, and accessories – and know I will regret it.
The Ganni comic relief top is a cute top but you are right…..not for you! Ha
I love how you know your style and what truly looks good on you. In the past you’ve said that bohemian tops were not “you” and I always thought I’d love to see you in them to see if we agreed .
You were right ha. But truly, you look good in 99% of everything you model! Love your blog! Tina
Totally agree the dress and top styles are nuts right now and shopping is so hard! I live in Dallas and we have tons of retail, but stores have less merch than online so it is return, return, return for me too! We have an Evereve store now, so that will be fun. Thanks for giving it a shot with this try-on haul. PS I thought the striped Loft top looked good on you.
I agree with the trends now, not quite my style and at around 5’2 have to be particular with the length too, can’t do anything with too much volume. I really like the Eileen FIsher dress even with the crew neck, found the same one at Zappos in a watermelon color that is gorgeous but can’t quite do that price point now. I just love a good simple tailored shift or sheath dress. I actually like the Vince Camuto blouse on you with that ruffle detail doing a sort of front tuck, looks very comfortable too. Thanks for all your posts!
Jo-Lynne – maybe this is something for a Saturday q&a but it would be really helpful to have a visual of jeans with where all of these measurements are that we are supposed to know about ourselves drawn on it, as well as yours for a reference…like you mentioned a 14” leg opening, and maybe I’m being dense…but I can’t visualize where/what you mean by that? That sounds way too wide for the bottom of the jeans??
Sure! I can do that at some point. But the leg opening measurement is the circumference of the hem of the jeans, not the width of the leg when laid flat. So when I lay those Hudson jeans down flat and measure the width of the ankle, it is 7″ wide.
It’s seems unanimous that none is us like nap dresses , little house on the prairie styles. Who are the stores catering to?
It’s all the younger girls wearing the prairie dresses. At least in my area. The younger teachers I work with wear them with the popular clogs and they are darling.
Millennials. 🙂
I AM CONSTANTLY TRYING TO FIND CLOTHES TO FIT ME. I’M 5’2″ AND WEIGH 113. WHAT IS WITH ALL THE UNUSUAL SLEEVES. I HAVE BEEN LOOKING AT NORDSTROMS WESITE FOR WEEKS NOW AND CANNOT FIND ANY PETITE TOPS THAT DON’T HAVE SOME KIND OF FLUFFY OR ENORMOUS SLEEVE! OR ANY CUTE MIDI DRESSES OR SKIRTS. I DID FIND A FEW FROM BODEN THAT FIT AND ARE CUTE, BUT STILL NO TOPS. WOW.
BY THE WAY JO-LYNNE, YOU LOOK SO GREAT AND I KNOW YOU WAITED A LONG TIME FOR THE SURGERY. 🙂
Thanks, Jo! 🙂
I agree with your assessment of the dresses. I’ve seen you look absolutely smashing in some dresses, but none of these did you justice. That said, I’m not a dress person AT ALL. As for the tops, I’m still strongly attracted to floral/printed tops and with the exception of that really large one, I thought they all looked great on you (what’s Paul thinking???). I did, though think the bright blue dolman sleeve and the magenta one with flutter sleeves look like a past trend style. Like, been there done that.
Thanks so much for all you do to bring us style inspiration!
Yeah, I think maybe that is what was bothering me about the kimono style top. It looks dated and sort of cheap – not to offend Kohl’s shoppers, but that’s all I could think of. It looks like something I’d find at Kohl’s. As for the magenta one, those flutter sleeves were the deal breaker on that one.
Such a great post. I always learn so much from your commentary. Thank you!
I’m not much for dresses, either, and always think I look like a clown when I wear one. I’m on the short and chunky side, so my confidence in a dress is always super low. Ugh. And, I’m with you on the curved hemline trend on tops. It needs to go! If you have even a tiny tummy, it just accentuates it. Again, not a style I can pull off very well. Clothing shopping is horrible right now. 🙁
I’m with you in wanting more color in my closet, Jo-Lynne. I’m also struggling to find things I like but with some color. Banana Republic was always one of my go-to’s and their palettes have been very neutral except for the occasional red. Quality seems to really be an issue on top of the problem with current styles not working for my shape. I was tempted to order the green Frame shirt. Luckily they were out of my size!
Ha! Yes, that would be an amazing color on you.
My husband and four year old are my wardrobe experts. Our daughter helps dress me, her father, and two brothers. Finding clothing that work, you need trusted opinions! You’re doing awesome Jolynne! Buying for a new body is super hard and mentally exhausting!
It’s a shame the pink ON dress didn’t work out because that color is amazing on you! I’m much more of a jeans & tee kinda girl, but I might be the only person here who loves many of the current dress trends. I don’t do mini, but I love a good midi. Of course I have to be more particular than someone younger might need to be, but I found this one that I feel is super flattering on me, and it’s not a brand I would normally have considered– I’d love to hear what you think! https://www.nordstrom.com/s/billabong-swept-away-ruched-midi-dress/6453703
That is super cute! I do like some of the fuller styles, they just don’t do much for me.
I have that Lovapella dress in a couple of colors and consider it standard for my cruises. I can throw it on with a hat and flip flops for day time or heels and a fancy necklace for dinner. The fabric looks nice and it comes in petite.
Yeah if I had a cruise planned, I would definitely keep it.
I’ve just not let myself sit down and read this one! Wow! I love how open and honest you are! I really like the striped Loft tank on you. And the Kiara dress. I, too, depend on my husband’s eye when I am unsure. So glad to see you doing so well!