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Try-On Haul: Denim Shorts, Crop Jeans, Sandals & a Few Cute Tops

Cheers to Friday, friends! We made it through the first week of social distancing. Let’s just not think about how many we have left to go…

This week’s try-on haul is pretty random, but most of what I found is really good!

Try-On Haul: Denim Shorts, Jeans, Sandals, and a Few Cute Tops

Meanwhile, as we all adjust to our new normal, I’m trying to pivot and plan my content around topics that will be most helpful to you all. I’ve been told that some of you need to look nice for teleconferencing, some just want to be comfy and put-together while homebound, and some are still going out of the house to work — but I’m assuming most of you are in healthcare fields, and perhaps you’re wearing scrubs? I don’t know…

I’m getting ready to order some things for next week’s try-on haul, so chime in!

What do you need these days? I want to be the best resource for you that I possibly can.

I do worry about receiving a ton of packages, knowing that COVID-19 can spread that way. But I do have a business to run, and I want to continue to provide value and fresh content during these uncertain times, so I’m going to try to figure out a safe way to handle that.

Okay, let’s get started!

Try-On Haul: Denim Shorts, Jeans, Sandals, and a Few Cute Tops

SIZING NOTES: I’m 5’5″ and 135 pounds-ish, with a slight hourglass shape. I’m wearing a 6/28 in pants/jeans, a small in tops, a 6 in dresses/jumpsuits, and size 8 shoe unless otherwise noted.

All links and descriptions are below the pictures.

Try-Ons: Denim Shorts

I ordered a few pairs of shorts from Gap this week, hoping that by summertime, we may be getting out and about.

GAP SALE: Save 40% off store-wide during the Friends & Family Event with code GAPFRIEND

I was thinking of saving these up for a dedicated shorts review post, similar to the one I did last year, and I still may update that post in a few weeks, but for now I’ll share things as they come in. I can always use these same pictures to update that post once I have enough to make it worthwhile.

Gap 5″ Mid Rise Denim Shorts in Dark Indigo (size 28) // I like the wash on these — it’s a little darker than most, but it still gives off a casual vibe because of the whiskering. The leg opening is slightly wider than I prefer, but overall, I think these are a nice option to have.

They are comfortable and stretchy, and I like the double cuff. Also, the cuff is sewn on the sides, so it will stay in place.

These come in petite and tall sizes too. (Make sure you click on REGULAR if that’s what you want. For some reason, my link is defaulting to the TALL sizes. )

NOTE: The fabric is 94% Cotton, 5% Recycled Cotton, 1% Elastane; plus these jeans are part of Gap’s Washwell™ Program that uses at least 20% less water than conventional wash methods, making them a sustainable pick.

Verdict: Keeping!

also wearing: J.Crew striped boatneck shirt (TTS; wearing a S) with Tory Burch sneakers (LOVE these… super comfy; they’re TTS and on sale!)

Gap 5″ Mid Rise Distressed Denim Shorts (size 28) // I don’t like these as much. They’re almost too big, and the distressing is a little much. I know I wore some very destructed jean shorts last summer, but I think I’m over it.

They’re 99% Cotton, 1% Spandex, so they’re a traditional sturdy denim, with just enough stretch to be comfortable.

Still, these have a nice wash, and I like the raw cuffed hem — it’s also sewn, like the ones above. These come in petite and tall sizes too! (Make sure you click on REGULAR if that’s what you want. For some reason, my link is defaulting to the TALL sizes. )

NOTE: These jeans are part of Gap’s Washwell™ Program that uses at least 20% less water than conventional wash methods, making them a sustainable pick.

VERDICT: returning

also wearing: J.Crew striped boatneck shirt (TTS; wearing a S) with Tory Burch sneakers (LOVE these… super comfy; they’re TTS and on sale!)

Gap 3″ Mid Rise Distressed Denim Shorts (size 28) // These have a shorter inseam, which I like much better for me. I also like this wash a lot, and the raw cuffed hem. Like the ones above, they’re 99% Cotton, 1% Spandex, so they’re a traditional sturdy denim with just enough stretch to be comfortable.

These come in petite and tall sizes too! (Make sure you click on REGULAR if that’s what you want. For some reason, my link is defaulting to the PETITE sizes. )

NOTE: These jeans are part of Gap’s Washwell™ Program that uses at least 20% less water than conventional wash methods, making them a sustainable pick.

Verdict: Keeping!

also wearing: J.Crew striped boatneck shirt (TTS; wearing a S) with Tory Burch sneakers (LOVE these… super comfy; they’re TTS and on sale!)

Try-Ons: Crop Jeans

I ordered a couple pairs of crop jeans during a Madewell sale last week, but it looks like they are not included in this week’s sale. Keep an eye on them, though, because they’re both really good!

Madewell 10″ High-Rise Skinny Crop Jeans in Hartland Wash (size 28) // Off-black jeans are trending this year, and I think Madewell nailed it with this wash. I also love the crop length and the raw hem. They also have the “magic pockets” that are supposed to help tame the tummy.

The fabric is 71% cotton/28% poly/1% elastane denim from the Candiani mill, and for each pair of jeans made at the Fair Trade Certified™ Saitex factory, Madewell contributes to a Community Development Fund managed by the workers, which is pretty cool.

These also come in petite and tall sizes.

VERDICT: Keeping!

also wearing: Talbots Stripe Cutout Back Top with Everlane The Day Loafer Mules

Madewell 10″ High-Rise Skinny Crop Jeans in Pure White: Button-Front Edition (size 28) // I’ve been wanting a pair of white skinnies that are shorter than the ones I had last year, plus those are too big now. I tried 3 or 4 pairs of white jeans in last week’s Try-On Haul, but they all missed the mark somewhere or another.

These, however, are white denim perfection!!!!

I haven’t been this excited about white jeans since… well, since I found the Madewell 9″ Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans in Pure White last spring. LOL! I guess the moral to this story is: Madewell is the place to go for white jeans.

They just do a REALLY good job with white denim. It’s thick and not at all see-through. (I forgot and wore black underwear to my photoshoot on Monday when I photographed these jeans with The Motherchic top, but it didn’t matter.) They have just enough stretch to be comfortable, but not so much that they highlight every dimple… Yes, my friends. I have dimples.

I also love the rear view on these — this is probably the first time I’ve posted a straight-on rear view picture without cringing inside. The pocket placement is perfect — not too wide or too high or too low or too big. (That is just a subjective observation. I have been asked for more advice on how to judge pocket placement, but everyone is different. You just have to take pictures and compare.)

To top it off, I love the way they fit through the legs — fitted, but not skin-tight. AND they have a 26 1/2″ inseam (the perfect crop length on me) with a really nice leg opening. Even though it measures the typical 10″, they don’t seem to fit as close to the ankle as some, which helps balance my wider hips.

The fabric is 90% cotton/8% poly/2% elastane denim from the Cone® mill, and I love that Madewell partners with the Better Cotton Initiative to improve cotton farming globally.

Oh, they have the magic pockets too!

FYI, these also come in petite and tall sizes.

VERDICT: In case you couldn’t tell, KEEPING!!!

also wearing: Talbots Stripe Cutout Back Top with Talbots Chainlink Loafers

Agolde Toni Slim in Radiate (size 28) // I ordered these because I thought it might be nice to have a pair of straighter white cropped jeans, and because I love my blue Agolde Toni crop jeans (on sale, by the way!!!)

Unfortunately, these fit very differently. For one thing, they are waaaaay too tight in the waist. I know they look loose here because of the straighter fit, but I would have to size up to a 29 if I was going to keep them.

Otherwise, the denim is nice and thick, and I do like the fit. I’m just not sure the 29 would look as good on the legs. Since they’re not on sale, and I found the Madewell pair above, I’m going to hold off on re-ordering in a larger size.

VERDICT: returning

also wearing: Madewell Ridgeton Pullover Sweater (also at Nordstrom; 25% off) with Sam Edelman Tesma Wedge Slide Sandals

Try-Ons: One Random Talbots Sweater

I actually have a few cute finds from Talbots, but you’ll have to wait till Monday’s post for that… Meanwhile, I wanted to share this sweater right away because it’s almost sold out.

Talbots Ombre Stripe Sweater (size S) // I’m sorry that this is only available in XS because it’s soooo cute! Very nice quality, nice dense knit, and such pretty colors. I love the 3/4 length sleeves too. If you’re an XS, RUN!!! It’s also 40% off.

also wearing: Madewell 10″ High-Rise Skinny Crop Jeans with Sam Edelman Tesma Wedge Slide Sandals

Try-Ons: Nordstrom Sale Finds

Nordstrom is running an unprecedented site-wide 25% off sale, and I rounded up a bunch of my Nordstrom Favorites in The Shop.

I also received a few orders this week of random pieces that caught my eye.

Madewell Daisy Daydream Sash Tie Wrap Top (also at Madewell; size S) // I actually ordered this top from Madewell, along with the jeans above, but it’s also at Nordstrom. Both retailers have it 25% off, with free shipping and free returns (at Madewell, for Insiders only.)

ANYWHO. I love the colors and the print, I think it’s so fresh and pretty, but the fit is a little weird. I would need a few additional snaps or fashion tape to hold it together. It could be the boobs, or maybe it’s just made that way, I’m not sure. Anyway. Someone else might like it, but I decided to return.

VERDICT: returning

also wearing: Madewell 10″ High-Rise Skinny Crop Jeans with Marc Fisher Fianna Sandals

Marc Fisher Fianna Sandals (size 8) // These are so fun for summer, such a great casual look. The leather straps are very soft against the foot, and the footbed is too.

The studs are a hot trend for spring, and these come in other colors too. They’re currently 25% off at Nordstrom!

VERDICT: Keeping!

Sam Edelman Tesma Wedge Slide Sandals (size 7.5) // I’ve shared these already, but I wanted to call your attention to them in this post because I finally got the right size, and I love them. Plus, they’re 25% off at Nordstrom!

I like the snake print (Truffle) so much, I decided to order this Toasted Almond color as well. I love the croc embossed leather, the sleek styling, and the squared-off toe. They’re surprisingly easy to walk in too!

VERDICT: Keeping!

also wearing: Madewell 10″ High-Rise Skinny Crop Jeans

Tory Burch Howell Lace-Up Sneakers (size 8) // FOUND: Fashion sneakers for grown-ups!

I’ll be sharing my updated Fashion Sneaker Review tomorrow, but since I’m wearing these with the Gap shorts, I’ll say a few words about them here.

These sneakers have that retro court style that is very on trend, but there’s something about them that’s also classy, leaning a little bit preppy. I love the navy trim at the back with the gold medallion.

I will say, though, they are verrry white — almost a stark white. Sometimes too white for certain outfits, but I love the styling, and they are suuuper comfortable. I wore them all over the grocery store and for most of the day last Friday, and they were comfortable all day and required no breaking in.

VERDICT: Keeping!

Bobeau Ribbed Knit Long Cardigan (size S) // I shared in this week’s What I Wore post that I realized I could use a versatile black cardigan or blazer in my wardrobe to wear when I need a layering piece for dressier events. (Basically, times when a leather jacket or denim jacket isn’t appropriate.)

I thought this long knit cardigan might be a good option, and I really do like it, but it might be too dramatic for church or funerals… which is kind of what I need it for.

Still, I like it a lot as a completer piece to more fun, edgy outfits, and the price is fantastic.

VERDICT: Keeping!

also wearing: leopard blouse (old; similar here) with red jeans (also at Anthro; 25% off) and strappy sandals

Gibson x The Motherchic Isle Button-Down Tank (size S; need an XS) // I styled this top for yesterday’s post, but I also have these pictures, so I thought I’d show you how it looks front-tucked and from the back.

This is such a great little piece to dress up or down this summer. I should have also shown you how cute it is with shorts and flat sandals… maybe next week, if it’s still available.

I do recommend sizing down, though. I think I would like the fit better in an XS.

VERDICT: Keeping!

also wearing: Madewell 10″ High-Rise Skinny Crop Jeans in Pure White: Button-Front Edition with Sam Edelman Tesma Wedge Slide Sandals

Try-Ons: LOFT Jumpsuit

LOFT V-Back Tie Waist Jumpsuit (size 4) // I shared this last week, but it was too big for me in the 6, and it just came in the 4.

I think this is really cute and flattering! It definitely runs big, so you may need to size down, but otherwise, it fits nicely, and I love the v-back and the tie in the front. The fabric is very light and has a nice drape. I mentioned last week, the quality isn’t superb, but for the sale price, it’s a really cute piece to have for events this spring and summer.

VERDICT: Keeping!

also wearing: Vince Camuto denim jacket (size S; 25% off!!!) with Vince Camuto Marybell Platform Wedge Sandals (25% off; LOVE!!!)

And that’s a wrap!

Despite my attempt to take Saturdays off, I plan on posting my updated Fashion Sneaker Review tomorrow. I’ve had the pictures for a couple of weeks, and I haven’t been able to find a day to share them, and next week is pretty much spoken for already, SO! I will be posting tomorrow.

I hope you guys are all hanging in there. I know the news is scary, but try to keep the faith. We will get through this, and we will be stronger for it.

Love you all!

xo

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37 Responses

  1. Thanks for continuing to post in the midst of all this. I definitely need the distraction from the news and being cooped up inside.
    I love your blog and follow you on Instagram. I’ve ordered many of your suggestions. I’m about 5 inches shorter than you but we have a similar body type and I’ve learned if it fits you well I can just order a petite and I’m good to go! Have a great day and you’re right…we will all get through this!  

  2. Jo-Lynne, thank you for trying to stay positive in this stressful time. I know you feel awkward about posting on fashion when the world is spinning out of control BUT you have a job to do the same as everyone else. You too have adjusted the best you can to stay informed and still carry on your work. As a General Manager at a chain hotel I can tell you first hand things are scary. I follow you and Cyndi Spivey each day and you have been a true inspiration to me, both fashion and faith. Your short prayer for the day resonated with me on the fact we still need to keep our faith. I have had to lay off 90% of my staff and the rest are on part time duties. For some reason I quickly checked your blog this morning (usually see it in the evening) and your pray reached out to me. Thank You from the bottom of my heart. Keep doing everything you are doing. You are doing a great job of adding a little sunshine into our dreary days.

    1. Oh, Rhonda. That’s rough. This is definitely a trial, but I know we will all come together and get through it somehow. Thanks for your encouragement. Yes, we all have a job to do… I hope I can help bring some levity into these trying times.

  3. I was already on a purchase moratorium for March before stuff really hit the fan, so I’m not ordering clothes right now. However, I’ve ordered a few household items I didn’t want to go to the store for. When my packages arrive, I bring them in, put them in the corner, go wash my hands, and then don’t touch the packages again for 3 days.

  4. A big THANK YOU Jo-Lynne!! In the midst of the storm I am thankful that you are still sharing!! It takes my mind off of the current situation!! I know God is in control and you are correct, we will be stronger for it!! I should be receiving some orders from Sax 5th Ave any day now.. I don’t know, shopping has always been a soothing thing for me until, I get the bill! Lol 😂 all jokes aside I pray 🙏🏻 for you and your family 👪. God bless you!!
    Much love
    Cindy xo

      1. I love most of the outfits you post.  Keep up the good work in these trying times!  I actually like the Agolde Toni Slim white jeans on you better than the Madewell ones….. less wrinkles across hips and knees.  Guess I just like the slim fit better than the tight, skinny fit.

  5. Hi Jo-Lynne,

    If your church isn’t having services on line, please watch mine!  My husband is the pastor at Asbury United Methodist in Allentown.  We will have a live service at 10 am at Asburylv.org.

    Thanks for all you do to keep us fashionable!

    Tammy Yeakel 

  6. Hi Jolynne. I always enjoy your blog and now that I’m working from home, it’s something I really look forward to. I live in Utah and as if the Coronavirus wasn’t enough, we had an earthquake this week! So your positivity is a refreshing change every morning. For me, I would love to see you style comfy clothes that I can wear while working from home. I am usually with my laptop in my sunroom, livingroom, craftroom or kitchen (change of scenery keeps me from getting too bored!) So I like stretchy or comfy clothes that I can work in or take a quick walk break – something I am comfy in but still feel dressed (if I stay in jammies I just want to snuggle down with a good movie or book!). Thanks for staying positive in our crazy world!

    1. I heard about the earthquakes. Crazytown. As it if couldn’t get any worse… of course, as we know, it always can. Thanks for filling me in on what you’re looking for!

  7. Thanks for continuing to post as usual.  At least that gives us some semblance of normalcy during such an odd and unpleasant time.

    I have to ask, am I the only one that hates high rise denim?  Don’t get me wrong, I am not a fan of super low rise either, but I find anything more than a 9″ rise is sooooo unflattering if you have any tummy bulge, as is so common for a lot of women.  To me, it seems like extreme rises – whether high or low – are both unflattering.  Anyway, even though high rise is trending now, I just can’t do it personally.  It looks terrible, at least on me 🙁 

    Thanks again for keeping your blog up and running and adding some fun to this challenging time 🙂

    1. I agree! I’m quite short waisted, and anything high rise gives me a pooch. The mid rise is so much more comfortable for me, and it hits right at my waist.

    2. I think this is a situation where you have to wear what looks best on you, but you can make small adjustments to keep them looking modern. For example, a 11″ rise might look great on one person, but a 9″ rise may still look just as high on another person. The key to keeping skinny jeans modern is to ditch the super low rise styles that were so popular a few years back.

      I didn’t like rises this high at first, but I’m slowly adjusting, and I like them more now than I did, say, a year ago.

      It helps that many tops are out now that work well without having to front-tuck them. I like higher rises best on me when they’re paired with tops that flow over the top, not tucked in. The jeans smooth out the fluff, and the tops over top don’t accentuate how high they come on my torso.

      It probably also helps that I’ve lost some weight and gone down a size. I still have a pooch, but it’s not as bad as it was before IF. I think you’re right to be mindful of that.

      All that to say, just because they’re trending, doesn’t mean you have to wear them. I think you can find a happy medium that looks good on you and also looks modern.

      1. just to clarify – I think they look great on you!  In general I like the way they look, except the super high rise (who wants the waist of their jeans to be at their belly button??  lol)  I know all you say is true – I don’t -have- to wear them.  Wish I COULD though 🙁

        Oh well, c’est la vie.  Cheers!

        1. Thank you, and I didn’t read it like you were saying they didn’t look good on me (although some may think that, lol!)

          I can’t do the suuuper high rise either. These are as high as I can go, I think. They say they’re 10″ but they are way higher on me than the AG Farrah that also says they are 10″. I need to take out my tape measure and figure out where the discrepancy lies. In my perfect world, the waist would be right at my belly button. These are a tiny big higher than that, and the Farrah is a little lower than that.

  8. Hi Jolynn,

    Great post.

    I really like your first look. This is an always comfy and chic style to pair denim shorts with sneakers. I own a pair of those sneakers and can say that are really comfy. I always wear mine without socks and doesn’t cause any blisters.

    Also, the jumpsuit really fits you. Try and pair the jump suit with the same pair of white sneakers. Definitely will go together, especially if you show a lil bit of ankle if you go sockless.

    Keep it up.

    Kim

  9. Thanks for sharing this try on sesh! I’m on the hunt for some cute shorts and now I know where to look. 
    Love the outfits you shared.
    Have a great “stay 6 feet away from each other kind of weekend”! 😊
    This too shall pass.

  10. Love those TB white sneakers because I actually found some Kate Spade sneakers very similar (Aaron), of all places Ross Dress for Less. I use to shop there years ago but the quality just kept getting worse and less designs pieces available but I was certain told that on Tuesday’s  they give seniors a 10% discount (I’m a young senior at 58) so I popped in a few weeks ago to get a door mat  and walked passed the shoes and saw these cute sneakers in my size for $39.00 and knew they were the real thing. They are worth $100 but found them online for $75-$80 on sale so I got a lucky deal. And I’ve been trying to look for ways to style them so this post was perfect. I have denim shorts just need that cute stripped top to go with them. 

  11. I bought those Marc Fisher sandals in cream when I saw them on your “Nordstrom list” a couple of days ago. So excited to receive them. Your blog helps to keep our spirits up; it’s nice to think about beautiful fashion & dream of better days to come. I also signed up for SheReads this morning. Just keep doing what you do, Jo-Lynne. We’ll all get through this & come back better than ever!

  12. I always love your try on sessions. Thanks for bringing some sunshine into our lives right now with clothes we can hopefully look forward to wearing:) I found a pair of white jeans when I went through my spring and summer stuff the other day. ( getting things ready at least for when the weather changes) they are Anna from JC Penney they checked all the boxes you’ve been talking about and if I roll them a bit they hit just right above my ankle..I’m loving the studded sandals this year. They’re are on my radar but not shopping anymore right now until we see where this whole virus situation goes as we are self employed… I’ve had my eye on a jumpsuit similar to the one from The Loft only it’s a Jersey material with a tie belt from old navy seemed to be a nice quality and  was super comfy..  keep your posts coming❤️

  13. While you shared a lot of cute things, I think my favorite from Talbots is my favorite.  I love bright yellow and grey together.  As a matter of fact, our kitchen is white, grey walls, and yellow accent on all of the cabinet and closet doors.  Enjoy the rest of your day!

  14. Hi!  Great post today – so many fab combinations and you look extra slim! I know it wasn’t the main reason for your IF but it’s nice to know?!
    Thank you too for sharing your prayer – it means a lot. – hope you all stay well 🙏😘

  15. Great post. Are you doing Tuesday Lives yet? Miss those. I watch on Wed. With so many home they might love you doing them again. 

  16. Thank you for your positive outlook and your continued fashion posts.  We all need a little distraction right now and you have definitely provided that. Here in the Midwest we also had a crazy weather day yesterday. We had blizzard warnings out west in Nebraska, we had hail in the middle of the state and here in our little neck of the woods it was 70° and later tornado warnings. Makes for a definite wardrobe challenge each day.Having to close the schools in a little town has been hard on a lot of the children. Especially those who rely on School for support emotionally and physically. May we all continue to pray that the Lord will bless our land with a quick healing. 

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