|

|

Try-On Haul: Trunk Club, Nordstrom & AYR Jeans

Happy Monday, friends! I’ve got a Try-On Haul today with a recent Trunk Club box and a smattering of other orders I placed recently. Most are from Nordstrom, but I have a new premium denim brand I’m excited to share with you.

SIZING NOTES: I’m 5’5″ with an hourglass shape, and I usually take a 6/28 in pants/jeans, a small in tops, and size 8 shoe. I linked the sizes I’m wearing beneath the pictures.

Trunk Club Try Ons

Trunk Club tends to be hit or miss ever since they changed their business model and no longer give you a dedicated stylist who gets to know you, but I still think it’s fun to see what they send.

For anyone not aware, Trunk Club is a Nordstrom-owned styling service that sends you a selection of clothing to try on at home. You only pay for what you keep, so you don’t have to deal with waiting for the refund. I requested transition styles, and this is what they sent.

Lilly Pulitzer Avelynn Silk Blend Dress

at Nordstrom // at Zappos // at Saks

This dress reminds me of the LOFT smocked button v-neck dress from last week’s try-on haul, but the quality is much nicer. Of course, so is the price tag! But if I had the right event for it, I think this would be a really nice change from my typical sheath style dress.

I definitely like it with the suede pumps, but I wanted to give the look more of a modern edge, so I tried my Paige booties. They work, I guess, but I still don’t love booties with dresses on me.

I was afraid knee-high boots would overwhelm the dress, but I actually really like it with the Sam Edelma Sulema boots. They balance to the look and offset the volume in the dress. The suede is a little heavy for the silk dress, but it’s also more of a luxe look than leather, so I think it’s okay.

I think the bare skin at the knees is kind of out of place with the black dress and black boots, so I tried it with sheer black tights. I actually like this look a lot!

I’m not familiar with Lily sizing, but a friend told me they can be inconsistent. This dress is a size 8, and it seemed to fit okay, but it may be a little roomy. There’s already a lot of volume so if I could size down comfortably, I think it would probably look better. All that to say, I think it’s pretty true to size.

While I had the tights on, I threw the pumps on again, and I like it this way too. It’s a little more of a conservative look that may work better for certain events.

VERDICT: Unfortunately, this dress is going back because I have nowhere to wear it. I’m not one to buy a special occasion dress just in case… at least, not at this price. But if you need something like this, I would definitely give it a try.


rag & bone Retro Runner Sneaker

sneakers (8) // jeans (28)

These are really fun. I love the retro styling, and the quality is evident in person. They’re soft in the tongue and around the edge of the shoe, and they have good cushion and support.

I also really like the combo of off-white, camel, and black. They look great with neutral looks, and I think they would look good with the natural wash denim that is going to be so hot this spring.

This picture probably looks like I was trying to get the back of the jeans, but I was trying to show the back of the shoes and how they fit with the straight crop jeans. (These have a 27″ inseam.) I’m not sure what the deal is with the tab in the back, but it’s kind of a fun detail.

VERDICT: Unfortunately, the 8 is too small for me, so I’m returning. I didn’t try to exchange because while I’m drawn to this style, I’ve had it before in my closet in a different shoe, and I always felt frumpy when I wore them with jeans. If I’m going to pay this price for sneakers, I’d rather have another pair of P448s.


Vince Mock Neck Elbow Sleeve T-Shirt

tee (S) // sneakers (8) // jeans (28)

This is a really sleek tee, but it’s too small for me in the size small. I also don’t like how tight the crewneck is. It’s generally more flattering to show more skin at the neck, and I have a short neck so that’s especially true for me. Definitely returning.


Blank NYC Long Suede Moto Jacket

jacket (S) // tee (S) // sneakers (8) // jeans (28)

I was actually intrigued by this longer moto jacket when I saw it on the Nordstrom website, so I was glad to see it in my box. I can see how the longer length would complement the bodysuits tucked into high rise jeans that are trending right now.

Unfortunately, they got the sizing wrong again. I always wear a medium in BlankNYC jackets, so this small was too tight through the arms and shoulders, although it almost looks too big in these pictures.

I like the herb color with the silver hardware and double belt buckle side tabs, but something about the shape of this is off, and the lapels look huge.

VERDICT: Returning; it’s too small and not flattering enough to exchange.


Theory Karenia V-Neck Cashmere Sweater

sweater (S) // jeans (6) // booties (8.5)

Well, this was another odd fit! I don’t know what is going on. I expected more from Theory. I guess this is too small, for one thing, but I don’t love the shorter front/longer back situation, and the v-neck is really short. I do like the color though.

VERDICT: Returning.


Citizens Of Humanity Emerson Ankle Slim Boyfriend Jeans

jeans (29) // sweater (S)  // mules (7.5)

Um, yeah. Another fail. These are the size 29, and I might need a 27. I had a pair of the Citizens Emerson a few years ago, and I remember needing to size down in those. They have a good wash, though.

VERDICT: Returning, but all is not lost…


Rails Bea Half Zip Pullover

pullover (S) // jeans (28) // sneakers (39)

When I saw a Rails sweatshirt in this box, I knew I was in trouble. I have the Simon Henley that I like a lot, but it’s more of a spring sweatshirt.

This Bea, on the other hand is really plush and soft and warm, and it has such a good relaxed style for my casual life. That said, I wouldn’t pay the full retail price. I just don’t think a sweatshirt is worth that, but I have some Trunk Club credits, and I didn’t love anything else in this box so I’m tempted to keep it.

VERDICT: Deciding… If I didn’t have Trunk Club credits, I’d send it back and watch for a sale, but it’s tempting!


Nordstrom Try Ons

Next up, some random items I ordered from Nordstrom.

Halogen Raw Edge Tank

tank (S) // jeans (29)  // sandals c/o (7.5)

I love this tank. I already have it in solid black and ivory, and in a black and white print, so when I saw this fun pink and black ink stroke print, I jumped on it. The double v-neck is a fun detail, and I appreciate that I can wear it with a regular bra.

This makes a great stand alone date night top for warmer weather, but you can also layer it under a blazer, denim jacket, cardigan, or leather moto for work or church or whatever dressy-casual events you might have this spring.

VERDICT: Keeping! Love this. My only concern is it will sell out before I start wearing it, and I won’t be able to link it. That will be annoying!


Mother The Hustler Ankle Frayed Jeans in Fairest Of Them All (29)

at Nordstrom // also at Saks // at Shopbop // sweater (S) // booties (8)

I have and love these jeans in the grey (which have been full restocked, by the way!!!) I’ve had my eye on this white pair ever since I styled a winter look with the white Mother Insiders and wished I had a similar style in a longer length.

These have a 27″ inseam with a 17″ leg opening and a 11″ front rise. I highly recommend learning your ideal inseam and rise, and getting familiar with those numbers. It makes online shopping so much more efficient. I can automatically rule out a lot of items by comparing measurements.

Mother Denim’s Fairest Of Them All is a white denim wash is a nice thick white denim with just a hint of texture. There isn’t much show-through, and they’re a nice crisp shade of white without being a glow-in-the-dark white like KUT from the Kloth’s Optic White (see below).

The fabric is 94% cotton, 4% polyester, 2% elastane; they have enough stretch to be comfortable without ever bagging out.

I love the fit and cut of these, but I’m sort of in between sizes at the moment, and since they said to size up, I ordered both the 28 and 29 to try. This is the 29. They feel pretty good, but they look a little loose in the thighs.


Mother The Hustler Ankle Frayed Jeans in Fairest Of Them All (size 28)

at Nordstrom // also at Saks // at Shopbop // green turtleneck (S) // clogs (7.5)

This is the smaller size. They’re definitely snug in the waist and tummy area, but I think they look better in the legs. I’m definitely up in the weight range at the moment, so I think they’re true to size.

Because of the 11″ rise, I don’t love the front tuck, but it was necessary with this sweater. I typically wear my shirts untucked with this rise, or I add a belt becasue that shortens the look of the rise just enough.

I also really like this 27″ inseam with the clogs. They aren’t long enough to get caught under my foot as I walk, but they’re not so short as to show an awkward amount of ankle.

VERDICT: I’m probably keeping one of these, but not sure which size yet.


White Denim Style Tip: Wear a light control shaping short in your skin color underneath for a smoother silhouette. I just picked up the Wacoal Body Base Shortie, and they are perfect. They have a clean cut finish on leg openings to prevent rolling, and you can’t see where they end.

They’re very comfortable and don’t feel at all like shapewear. They just keep everything looking smooth and provide extra coverage under light colored pants and denim.

The only issue is, sizes are very limited at the moment. I looked everywhere, and I can only find them in L and XL right now, but the Wacoal website says they’ll be back in stock in March. (I have the M.)


KUT From The Kloth Stella High Waist Raw Hem Flare Jeans

jeans (6) // green turtleneck (S) // purple hoodie (S) // booties (8.5) // clogs (7.5)

I ordered these to have a lower priced pair of white denim to share, and really like the fit. They have a 31″ inseam with a 20″ flared leg opening and a 10 1/4″ front rise, so they’re a couple inches longer than the Mother Hustler.

I like them with the booties, but I also wanted to try them with clogs. Both have about a 3 1/2″ heel, and I think this is a nice pairing with the 31″ inseam on the jeans.

The biggest issue with the clogs is the jeans get caught under my foot as I walk.

My other issue with these jeans is the white wash is almost blindingly white. I like a crisp white denim, but these are a little much. Not a deal breaker, but something I wanted to note. It’s also a little thinner than the Mother Denim, but still not super see-through. With those Wacoal shaping shorts, they’re fine.

VERDICT: I’m holding onto these for a while, with tags on. I would like to style them for the blog at least. They run true to size, or you may want to size down if in between. The 6 is very comfortable on me.


Nordstrom Signature Cashmere V-Neck Sweater

sweater (S) // jeans (28) // mules (7.5)

This sweater caught my eye when I was shopping at Nordstrom last weekend. The color is absolutely gorgeous, and it’s such a luxe knit.

I’ve been saying for years that Nordstrom Signature gives you the best bang for your buck in luxury cashmere. The quality is along the lines of Vince and Theory, but the prices are a tad lower because you aren’t paying for the label.

This one does not disappoint in the quality department. It feels so good on, and this color is just gorgeous. It has a very relaxed fit, almost too relaxed, but the 24″ length allows me to wear it tucked or front-tucked, and it’s such a refreshing color for this drab time of year.

VERDICT: Keeping. I know I should wait for a sale, but I’m dying for some color in my life, and this one is whispering sweet nothings into my ear. It also comes in some gorgeous neutrals, if you prefer. I would say it’s TTS, or size down if in between.

These jeans are sold out, by the way. I picked them up on sale, but I don’t like the fading on the rear, so I’m sending them back.


Caslon Ribbed Sweater Hoodie

sweater (S) // jeans (29) // booties (8)

Here’s a less expensive option, if you are also drawn to the purple and lavender hues right now. They are going to be huge this spring, just telling you now.

You know how I love a sweater hoodie, and this one is a thick and soft and stretchy knit. The fabric is 50% viscose, 28% polyester, 22% nylon; so there’s no wool.

The fit is a little boxy, but not in a bad way. It has a cozy, relaxed vibe that I like, and the rib trim on the shoulders is a nice touch. . It’s true to size, or size down if in between.

VERDICT: I’m going to hold onto this and see if I reach for it. I just wish it were an inch shorter because the fabric is a little too thick to front tuck, and I don’t think the proportions are going to look right with ankle-length jeans.


Caslon Cozy Relaxed Fit Turtleneck Sweater

green turtleneck (S) // jeans (6) // clogs (7.5)

This is another Caslon sweater that makes a nice transition piece for late winter/early spring. It comes in other colors, but I was drawn to this kelly green. It’s lightweight and has a really nice drape. The fabric is 40% viscose, 30% nylon, 25% polyester, 5% wool.

VERDICT: I’m definitely holding onto this one.


Caslon Long Sleeve Knit Polo

shirt (S) // jeans (29) // clogs (7.5)

Okay, one more Caslon top. They’ve got a lot of good ones right now! This knit polo is buttery soft with a really nice drape. I thought it would be too low cut, but it really isn’t too bad.

I think the collared look is nice for a change, and this marled grey is pretty, but I’m kind of tired of grey and black, so I think I need a different color.

VERDICT: I may return and try another color. I just don’t love the other choices that much. Maybe the olive?


Levi’s High-Rise Cropped Jeans (size 29)

at Nordstrom //  at Saks // shirt (S) // clogs (7.5)

These jeans are too short for me, but if you’re petite, you may like them. The denim is very soft and stretchy, they have a 10.25″ rise and a 26″ inseam with a 13.5″ leg opening.

The distressed hem and busted out knee gives them some texture and keeps them from looking super dressy, despite the inky black wash. The Levi’s brand hasn’t been as aggressive with the vanity sizing, so I always need to “size up” in their jeans. These are the 29, and they fit perfectly.

VERDICT: Returning because of the length.


AYR (All Year Round) Denim

This is a new brand to me. Someone in my Facebook Group asked about them, so I thought I’d give them a try. This is straight off the About page: “AYR stands for All Year Round. We imagined AYR as an alternative to fast fashion. Our mission is to create confidence through clothing. We believe the best design is ageless, timeless, and effortless. Sometimes, less is more.”

Their jeans are made in LA, and I found the quality to be up there with Fidelity Denim, Mother, and those of a similar price point.

AYR The Pop in Bomba

jeans (28) // stripe sweater (S) // boots (8) // pink sweater (S) // pumps (8)


This pair is called The Pop, and they’re a straight ankle jean, but they offer three inseam lengths (25″, 27″, and 29″). I get a lot of comments from petite women who are frustrated that most premium denim doesn’t offer short sizes. Well, here you go!

I ordered the 27″, and they have a 16″ leg opening with a 10 3/8″ front rise. They fit pretty snug in the thighs, so while they call them straight leg jeans, they read as a slight flare to me.

The denim feels very thick and soft, and the wash looks really good too. It’s 95% Cotton/ 3% Polyester/ 2% Elastane. My only complaint with these is that frayed hem. It looks too manufactured to me; I prefer a straight cut raw hem or something more distressed looking.

VERDICT: I’ll return these because I don’t care for that frayed hem.


AYR The Pop in Laid Back

jeans (28) // sweater (S) // sneakers (39) // booties (8.5)

This is the AYR The Pop in the Laid Back wash, and these have a traditional hem and a lower (9 7/8″) rise. The wash is a little darker and not quite so faded on the thighs, and I really like this color.

I just wish the leg opening wasn’t quite so wide, or maybe I need to try the 29″ inseam. I know they’re intended to be ankle length, but they don’t look quite right to me, and I’m not sure why because I have lots of jeans that are this length that I like.

I just feel like they need to be longer, especially with booties. They do come down a bit over the shaft of the boot, but they interfere a bit when moving around.

Here they are with clogs, and I would definitely prefer a longer length with these as well.

As an aside, this sweater is kind of cute, but the sleeves are too puffy for me. If you’re smaller on top, you might like it. I’m in the medium, for reference.

VERDICT: I do really like the fit of these jeans and the wash, so I think I may try the 29″ inseam.


Okay, that’s all I’ve got for today! I just got in an order from Express, but I’ll have to include those in next week’s try-ons. It’s work wear, so that will make some of you happy!

Also, if you missed it yesterday, I posted the Reader Survey Results. Have a marvelous Monday!

Stay In Touch

If you liked this post, be sure you’re signed up for my email newsletter. In addition to my most recent blog posts, you’ll receive exclusive newsletter content like special sales, my newest favorite finds, and an occasional peek behind the scenes — all delivered right to your inbox.

I would also love for you to join my JLS Fashion Insiders Facebook Group! This is a friendly place to discuss all matters of fashion and style with other women, share your outfits, and get advice, and stay up to date on all the happenings in this community.

This post contains affiliate links. When you shop through my links, it helps support my business (at no additional cost to you) so thank you!

Join The Conversation

22 Responses

  1. Some nice finds! I immediately ordered the Caslon hoodie (in olive) and the Caslon polo (in pink). I think I’m just getting bored with the sweaters I have. 😀

    Thank you, I love the try-on hauls!

  2. I just got the AYR jeans in the POP style. I’m impressed with the quality & fit. They are definitely more fitted in the thigh area but perfect for my narrow hips & skinny legs. I’m keeping mine, I loved the color.

  3. I love so many pieces in this try on hail. While they look great on you, I am not a fan of the raw hem. It would be nice to see white pants with a finished hem, if possible. Thanks!

  4. I’m looking for a pair of spring clogs to transition from cold to warmer weather. I’m having a hard time finding a pair that is comfortable and easy to walk in. I don’t think I remember seeing the Steve Madden clogs. How is the fit? They are available in a light-colored suede that might be fun. I’m looking for a casual day style rather than higher “dressier” ones. Love the white Mother jeans. Happy Monday!

    1. Yes, I am looking for the same thing. Clogs are hard though and I’m afraid I’m going to turn my heel even on the lower heeled ones. The black ones do come in a tan suede and I ordered that color as well. They are not as comfortable as the higher heeled ones in this post though. The higher heeled ones have a softer edge around the foot.

          1. Kim….Thank you. These clogs from Sweden are the REAL deal for sure. I love how they have different heel heights in same color. I have no idea what size though, in their EU sizing. Do you? Have you bought from them? How is the comfort level? I am a size 7 US

          2. Kathy I am a US 6 and I wear a 37 so you might be a 38. They have someone who is available to help you decide. The clogs are really comfortable for me. I have nerve problems and the hard wood makes them easy to wear all day.

  5. Ever since the clogs started getting attention (last spring, I belive), I’ve purchased several styles of clogs by UGG including a few pairs of boots and sandals. The quality is amazing and they are are extremely comfortable. Veronica Beard also has some clogs in her collection that I’d like to try next but of course, the price point is much higher.

    1. I do have that one pair of UGG Judi clogs and I agree that the quality is fantastic. They’re still a bit high for me and I don’t wear them much. I think because it’s winter and they seem cold. I’m hoping to wear more this spring.

  6. Wow…..again a lot of work. Thank you. I actually like the shorter hem and frayed hem jean that you didn’t care for. I think the 25 would be good for me. I like 25-26. I liked the bigger fray. 🙂 I agreed with everything you said as you were styling, so won’t go into any of that. I’m like you, I’m so tired of the dark colors and the other day I was in our local area at a small business and decided to shop with them and found a sweater with pinks and beige and another really pretty lavender…..perfect lavender with blue tone…… top for hanging out. I bought both, even though they were over priced and I had to pay tax because if was out of state. We live on the border and can be in the other state in 15 min. So, because of wanting something new and brighter color, I spent more. LOL I call it retail therapy. I wore both this weekend and was a happy camper.

    1. One of my friends told me she likes that bigger fray too. I’m sure a lot of people do, since they sell it and it’s one of their most popular styles. It’s just one of those funny things that bug me, lol. YAY for finding some cute tops! It’s good to support a local biz.

  7. Wow, thank you, great haul!👏 I love so many of your finds and always pour over each detail you point out. You’ve helped me become much more decerning about style, fit and quality. Definately want the Body Base Shortie! Such a great idea for smoothing under white denim. Just wear em like undies! Will order multiple when back in stock.

  8. The green sweater is my favorite of the bunch. Followed by the lavender hoodie. Always fun to see what you keep vs send back.

  9. I’m wondering about the white Mother jeans for me; they look great on you. I recently ordered some Madewell ones with a lower price point, but will try those next. It is just so hard to find thick white jeans that do not accentuate the thrills of an aging body. I currently have one Talbots pair from several years ago which is perfect, but have tried tons that are not as good for me. And, I like your idea about the shapewear, but with the “heat” that comes with aging, I’d probably melt.

  10. I love the green sweater, it looks great with your coloring! You mentioned it as late winter/early spring, but I think it’d be perfect for Christmas if you paired it with red jewelry! Also with the right tan/brown type accessories it could work in fall around Thanksgiving

  11. Thanks for trying the AYR jeans. I’ve got my eye on another style, The Yes Yes Yes in Bye Bye Bye (that’s a lot to type) 🙂 Those are supposed to be stocked in March. Here’s another brand I wonder if you’ve tried, G-Raw? I like their jeans too.

    Thanks again – Katie, Spokane

    1. Those look interesting – a slightly narrower leg opening would be nice but I’m not crazy about an 11″ rise. I do have some like that, but I have to be more careful with which tops I can wear with them.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Search
Close this search box.