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Early Spring Try-On Haul: Shopbop, Nordstrom, J.Crew, Banana & More

Greetings, friends! Today I’ve got an early spring try-on haul with some fab finds from Shopbop, Nordstrom, J.Crew, Madewell, Talbots, Banana Republic, and more!

I’ve been saving up pictures for a couple of weeks, so this is a bit of a doozie. Grab a cup of coffee, and sit for a bit!

Sizing Notes: I’m 5’5″ and currently right around 135 pounds. I take a small in tops, 28 in jeans, 8 in dresses, and I wear a size 8 shoe.

First up, a few of my Shopbop sale purchases!

Shopbop Try-On Sesh

I placed a Shopbop order… actually several, because they’re having their Spring Event. You can see my full Shopbop sale coverage HERE, but basically, it’s a tiered sale where you can save up to 25% off depending on how much you spend.

I’m planning to hop on their live chat later today to ask them to combine my orders, so I get the max savings. In the past, they’ve always been happy to do that.

This sale ends March 8, 2020 at 11:59pm PST, and it only applies to products labeled “SPRING”.

Mother The Insider Crop Jeans (size 28) // I actually had these last fall, styled them for this post, and returned them because I wasn’t sure I’d get my money’s worth out of them. In a nutshell, I wasn’t QUITE ready to embrace this silhouette.

This spring, however, I’m ready to give them a try again. I really like them with these sandals, actually (also a Shopbop sale purchase.)

AG Farrah Skinny Ankle Jeans in Mastic (size 28) // AG Farrah skinnies are my ride-or-die denim, and I really like the wash on this pair, as well as the slit hem. These have the same fit and feel as my other Farrahs. They have a 9.75″ rise, a 28″ inseam, and a 9.5″ leg opening.

This pair is really nice as well, if you like a lighter wash. I had these in the 29, and I wore them a ton over the past winter until I lost weight.

rag & bone Nina High-Rise Skinny Ankle Jeans in White (size 29) // I’ve been wanting some white skinnies that are a little shorter than the Madewell ones that I have, so I ordered these because I like my other Rag & Bone jeans a lot. These have a 10.5″ rise, 27″ inseam, and 10″ leg opening.

I usually size up in white denim because I don’t like them too tight, so I ordered the 29, but they’re still suuuuuper snug. I would need a 30 in these. Otherwise, I really like the fit, especially the 27″ inseam. They’re not terribly see-through either. I’d like to see how the 30 looks on.

Sam Edelman Tesma Slides (size 8) // I love these snake print wedge slides!!! They are just so fun, and they fit my foot really well… except I need to size down half. I often do in slides, so I’m not sure why I didn’t order the 7.5, but they’re on their way.

These are leather with a padded footbed, and they have a comfortable 2.75″ heel. They’re soft around the edges, and feel smooth against the foot, and they actually stay on when I walk. Score! They also come in black suede and pink croc.

Sam Edelman Stacey Flats (size 8.5) // I don’t know why I only have one picture of these, but I remember trying everything on late in the afternoon, and my lighting wasn’t best. I really like them, though!

Pointy toe flats are on trend this fall, and as I like to say, I’ve never met a snake print I don’t like! I’m trying not to overdo it, but it’s a problem. (Wait till you see the wedge sandals I found…)

These are comfortable, but they run narrow. I recommend sizing up half.

Tory Burch Eddie Ballet Flats in Bright Samba (size 8) // I’ve been wearing the Tory Burch Minnie travel flats for years, and I love them, but I’m kind of over the big medallion on the toe. I’m really liking this more minimalist style for a change.

They still have the Tory Burch comfort, soft leather, padded footbed, etc. This color is definitely bold, but I like it! I’m getting tired of neutrals all the time, and bright colors are on trend this spring.

These shoes do fit a bit snug, so I’ve ordered the 8.5 to try.

Tory Burch Eddie Ballet Flats in Goan Sand (size 8) // I like these a lot, and this color is far more versatile than the Bright Samba above, but the patent leather isn’t as soft and flexible.

As with the ones above, they run narrow and perhaps a bit small as well. I’d consider sizing up or going with the larger of your two “normal” sizes.

rag & bone The Vee Tee (size M) // This tee was part of my massive white t-shirt review, but I wanted to re-order in the medium because the small was pretty snug. The medium is definitely the right fit, and I LOVE this tee.

I love the seam down the back, the subtle slub texture, the great drape, the shape of the v-neck with some trim to elevate it above your boyfriend’s undershirt. And given all that, it’s still not see-through. It really is the unicorn I was looking for.

I know, the price tag is insane, but I was able to get it for 25% off during this sale, so there’s that. If ordering, I definitely recommend sizing up.

If you like this tee, but it’s out of budget, I highly recommend the Banana Republic slub cotton-modal v-neck tee, which I also re-ordered in the medium after publishing my white t-shirt review. See below…

Banana Republic Slub Cotton-Modal V-Neck T-Shirt (size M) // There’s a lot to like about this tee, including the price tag. I actually like the shape and cut of the v-neck better than the Rag & Bone, and it is very similar in every other way — subtle slub texture, seam down the back, trim around the v-neck, nice drape.

It’s also a bit shorter — both in overall length, as well as the arms and v-neck. See the comparison right here. The Rag & Bone is on the left, and the Banana is on the right.

My only issue is, it’s very thin. But if you can get past that, it’s a great tee at a great price. I definitely recommend sizing up one.

It also comes in a scoop neck version…

Banana Republic Slub Cotton-Modal Scoop-Neck T-Shirt (size M) // This is the scoop neck version of the v-neck above. I’m actually keeping this and not the v-neck (since I’m keeping the Rag & Bone v-neck.)

I like a scoop neck best layered under a denim jacket or blazer, and the thinness won’t be as much of an issue if I use it primarily as a layering tee.

J.Crew Slim Perfect Scoopneck T-Shirt in White (size M) // I think a lot of you will like this one! It’s thicker and stretchier than the slub tees, and the elbow-length sleeves are a nice feature.

J.Crew Slim Perfect Scoopneck T-Shirt in Brilliant Sunset (size M) // Same tee in a bold orange. I think this color is so much fun for spring and summer!

Banana Republic Sandwash Modal Cowl-Neck Top (size S) // This top is a winner! I love the washed black color and sandwash fabric, and the cowl neck with short dolman sleeves are perfection.

This can be worn layered or alone, and it also comes in ivory. It’s true to size, and the fabric is 65% modal, 35% polyester. You can wash and dry it too!

also wearing: Madewell layered necklace and Lucky Brand earrings

J.Crew Short-sleeve tee in Re-Imagined Silk (size S) // I’m not quite as excited about this one, but it’s cute too. It would make a good layering piece for the office.

This top comes in other colors too, and it’s silk, which is nice. It’s also a sustainable pick. Bonus, it’s 40% off today!

J.Crew Ribbed bateau neckline T-shirt (size M) // I thought this was a fun piece for transition season. I really like the boat neck and ribbed texture.

And bonus, this top is an extra 40% off today! Definitely size up, though. The medium is a perfect fit.

Talbots Side Zip Stripe Pullover (size S) // I picked this up when I ordered the Talbots t-shirts for my white t-shirt review, and I really like it! Very cute transition top, nice sturdy fabric, and some fun details. The zip on the side is cute, and the navy trim is a nice touch.

This top also comes in petite, plus, and plus petite sizes; and it’s 30% off today!

Everlane The Court Sneaker in White/Mustard (size W8.5) // These are a new sneaker style for Everlane, and I pre-ordered as soon as they were available. When they came in, I thought they looked a little geriatric, but once I got them on, I think I sort of like them. Honestly, I can’t decide.

I will say this, though. They are incredibly comfortable. They feel so good against the foot (I usually wear my sneakers barefoot) and the quality is really solid. They run TTS for sneakers, I typically wear an 8.5 or even 9 in some sneakers.

Pardon my lily-white feet, but I also ordered some sandals to try…

Steve by Steve Madden Hades Strappy Slide Sandals (size 8) // These also come in snake print and a few solid colors, but I thought this rhinestone fabric was nice for when you want a dressy flat sandal to wear with dresses or white jeans and dressier tops. They’re comfortable for the price point, and they fit true to size.

Steve Madden Honey Slide Sandals (size 8) // The two-strap sandals are popular this season, and I love the chunky wood grained heel. These also come in tan and tortoise. They run a bit big; I need to size down to the 7.5.

also wearing: French Connection Sweet Stripe Long Sleeve Sweater Dress (wearing a medium — super cute but very body-con; size up)

Vince Camuto Marybell Platform Wedge Sandals (size 8) // I love, love, LOVE this pair! They’re super comfortable, and the snake print is the perfect neutral. Plus, I love how they designed the jute wedge with layers of fabric.

I know not everyone wears heels, but if you do, these are so good. (They have a 4 1/4″ heel with a 1 1/4″ platform, so that’s a 3″ heel drop.) They’re TTS and also on sale!

Madewell Ridgeton Pullover Sweater (also at Nordstrom) (size S) // I love this sweater for transition season, and it’s 25% off now! I’ve already worn it, and I shared it in my last daily looks post, but I wanted to include it here as well. Great details, flattering, nice length, comfortable… A+ for Madewell!

Sanctuary Harmony Balloon Sleeve Floral Top (size S) // This top is really cute, but I wish it wasn’t so long in the back. I like the shorter front length, but it’s almost too short, at 24″. The colors are gorgeous, though, and it pairs beautifully with black, white, or blue jeans.

NYDJ Pleat Back Blouse in Evening Ditsy (size S) // Well, this top easily adds 10 lbs! It’s not terrible when front-tucked, but I still don’t think it does much for me. It may work for someone reading along, though!

also wearing: LOFT Chewed Hem Slim Pocket Skinny Crop Jeans in White (size 28)

BP. Crewneck Tee (size M) // This is actually pretty impressive for a $15 tee! I’m not big on crewnecks, but sometimes I like the way they layer under certain jackets, and this one isn’t as high in the neck as some.

It’s a nice, smooth cotton/modal blend, so it drapes pretty well. It’s on the shorter side, at 24″ but that’s nice for the higher rise styles that are trending right now. They do recommend drying flat, so be aware of that, but otherwise, this is a nice classic wardrobe piece at a great price.

also wearing: P448 leather and suede sneakers (LOVE!)

J.Crew Garment-dyed V-neck hoodie in original cotton terry (size S) // This is another piece I already shared when I wore it, but I’ll keep it in here because I have these pictures from my original try-on sesh.

I actually didn’t wear this navy one because it’s too small, but I love the white one below.

J.Crew Garment-dyed V-neck hoodie in original cotton terry (size M) // The medium fits so much better than the small, and I really like the shorter (23″) length on this one.

These sweatshirts are garment-dyed and distressed for a cool, lived-in look, and I love how they wrapped the drawstring tips with bright threads. I can see wearing this with shorts in the summer too. Definitely a keeper!

Eliza J Floral Print Maxi Dress (size 8) // I have a wedding coming up, so I’ve been on the lookout for a dress to wear. I’m not crazy about this one, though. It’s not too big for me, because I can’t wear it any smaller, but it looks too big. It’s definitely too long throughout (including the bodice.) If you’re tall, this one might be worth a shot!

T Tahari Tonya Pleat-Shoulder Dress (size 8) // And finally, this is kind of random. I actually own this dress and have for a few years, but it’s still available so I thought I’d share it. (If it looks weird in the back, it’s b/c I didn’t have it zipped all the way. It actually fits nicely in the back.) I’ve worn this to several funerals, and it’s a nice dinner out dress too.

This was my go-to LBD until I added the Ann Taylor scoop neck sheath to my closet a few weeks ago. I think they both have a place because sometimes you don’t want to wear sleeveless, but sometimes it’s appropriate.

I tried it on because I was curious to see how it fits since I’ve lost weight. It was on the snug side when I was at my upper weight, but it’s almost too big now. I don’t know if I should rejoice, or be sad because I really like this dress!

Anyway, if you need a classic LBD, this one is definitely worthy of your consideration.

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40 Responses

  1. You could get your LBD altered. It’s a good one! 
    I love the wedge sandals. I’m thinking you kept them. I would but 4” heels. No can do! 
    You must be excited to get your tile installed today. Yea! It frees up your weekend, too.

      1. If you’re like me, I yo-yo. Your LBD is timeless and a classic, so you can wear it regardless of age. 

  2. Lots of great outfits! So glad you are feeling ok after yesterday’s tumble down the stairs. Yay to getting your backsplash installed! Your kitchen reno is coming along nicely.

  3. Wow what a try on haul… My daughter and I went shoe shopping yesterday. Other than wearing a white sneaker( finally wore mine yesterday) what are you seeing in a transitional shoe? When you’re tired of boots but it’s still too cold for the shoes you’ve shown today in your blog. Are you seeing the wedge sneakers like the Steve Madden ones? I’m asking because I tried them on at DSW and they were supper comfortable… just want to make sure I’ll get my cost per wear. Glad to hear your kitchen is coming along:) can’t wait for the final pics.

  4. So very glad your back and hip aren’t worse after that scary trip on the stairs. Yay for the backsplash! Love the LBDs!

  5. I recently bought a pair of those tuxedo striped jeans. Would love a posts on different ways to style them. 

  6. Which jeans are you wearing with the J Crew hoodies and T-shirt’s? I really like the medium wash (But darker than the AG Farrahs you styled above) and they look very flattering. Thanks for doing so much try-on work so we don’t have to! 🙂

  7. I love these posts so much that I “save them” for a work break. Read this during my “coffee break”, You have to be creative when you’re self-employed!
    It’s nice to see some Banana Republic items. I shop BR quite often. It’s the only clothing store credit card I have other than Nordstrom. BR quality is usually good and they have excellent sales. Their customer service is also great. I have the BR cowl neck top in the sleeveless version from last year in both black and dark green and I have worn them a ton alone or under something, depending on the weather and activity. I love the snakeskin sandals. Can a person REALLY have too many pairs of snakeskin shoes? I just bought a pair of Blondo waterproof snakeskin booties that are really more like shoes to give my snakeskin Chelsea boots a break. They are a lighter snakeskin with some white in them and feel Springy even on a cold, rainy March day like today. Now I’m cruising for sandals. I might order both pairs from Shopbop that you featured. Thanks so much for all of your work to put this together, Jo-Lynne!

  8. i completely thought your everlane tennis shoes were golden goose. i love them on you! they look very modern.. i gave finicky feet and it’s so nice that brands are finally making pretty shoes that are good for our feet & pretty to wear out of the house!

    love your post! thank you!

  9. Great post Jo-Lynne! I really loved the Talbots striped sweater! Wanted you to know I just received the LIVE WELL T from Boden! I did go down a size as recommended by many of the reviews (got the medium), but stayed with the Large in their white V-neck slub t-shirt. Usually the reviews (on the Boden site and YOURS) are spot on, as they were this time. Thanks!!

    1. Funny, I was sipping a glass of wine when your comment came through. 🙂 It definitely takes time to do these posts, but I think they’re as helpful to me as they are to you all!

  10. Hope you are feeling OK after your fall. I have done the same thing, not good. Love the looks and I like BR, Talbots, and Boden, as well. I ordered the stripped Talbots top in petite after seeing it on your post. Thank you for sharing your style with us! Can’t wait to see your kitchen update!

  11. Love these posts! Thank you for all your hard work! I loving the snakeskin wedges you’re wearing with the Banana Republic modal cowl neck top. What brand and style are they?

  12. As another reader mentioned, I was also glad to see Talbots in your try-on sesh! I shop there quite a bit since they carry petite sizes which I have to have. I think I’m going to order the striped top also! Thanks for all your hard work!

  13. Great finds!  I love that cowl top from Banana Republic and I ordered  it right away!  Those snakeskin sandals!!!  Love ❤️  ❤️ ❤️

  14. Great post Jo-Lynn! I ordered the BR cowl neck asap. Its beautiful. Looking forward to seeing your kitchen in all it’s new glory.

    FYI, I just picked up Carrie Underwood’s new book, The Path, yesterday at Target. She has a great healthy fitness lifestyle. The Target version has an extra chapter about preparing veggies, something of importance for me right now.
    Have a great weekend!

    1. Hi, correction: the book is called Find Your Path- honor tour body, fuel your soul, and get strong with the FIT52 Life.

  15. You definitely tried on a lot of nice things for Spring!  With the change of seasons it’s so exciting to see what’s new, and it’s so tempting to spend, spend, spend, until I think about our budget.  Ha!  Dang it, I sure with we had real transitional weather because I love the striped top from Talbots!  Some of the shoes you shared are so pretty!  I am still deciding what type of shoes I need to add to my closet, so that I will make a smart choice.  I hope that your weather today (Saturday) is as nice as ours!  It’s cold, but the sun is out for a 2nd day, so we’re excited!  Have a fabulous weekend!

  16. Thank you for this Try On Haul. You are a hard working Lady. I wasn’t sure where to even start shopping for Early Spring clothes. This is really helpful I have to be a little conservative with my shopping so I can carry it into the warmer Spring days. I’m getting older so i have to have some good pieces. I usually shop at Loft, Talbots, J crew, and sometimes Belks. Can you tell me what Retail Stores carry the AG Farrah jeans and if they go on sale. I rarely order online because I like to see the product. I haven’t had any Luck with Amazon. Awful! So sorry for your fall. Hold on to that rail. We have stairs and I have fallen quite a few times. Hope you feel better. Love your Blog!!
    ….Linda W. 🌷

    1. Hey Linda, the Farrah jeans do go on sale at times. All higher end dept stores carry them – Bloomies, Nordstrom, Neimans, etc. Not sure about Macy’s and L+T. Also Verishop, Shopbop, Revolve, and stores like that. Bloomies is probably your best bet at finding a sale. They do denim sales fairly often.

  17. Jolynne can you recommend a Jean that is l little less skinny. I have gained some weight and my calves and thighs are a little snugg in the skinnies I have. Sorry to bother you again but I’m kind of in a turmoil trying to get my jeans to fit. I would love something High Rise. Thank you so much!!🌺

  18. Great post. Thank you. At the risk of sounding unsupportive, I think you’ve lost too much weight. Based on the pictures, if I were your real life friend, I’d want to talk to you about that. I hope you’re okay.

    1. Hi Ann. I am 5’5″ and weigh 135. I assure you, I am a very healthy weight. In fact, to further put your mind at ease, I saw my doctor this week, and she didn’t even mention it.

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