Good morning, and happy Friday! I hope you had a good week, and that you’re staying safe and well. I’ve got a new Try-On Haul for you today, and it’s a bit of a mish-mosh, so we’ll just dive right in.

SIZING NOTES: For size reference, I’m 5’5″ and 135 pounds-ish, and I usually take a 6/28 in pants/jeans, a small in tops, and size 8 shoe.

Doublju Lightweight Hoodie Sweatshirt

jeans // sneakers

This hoodie is from Amazon, and I like the grey and pink combo for transitioning to spring. It’s soft inside, and overall fairly lightweight, which also lends itself well to transition season.

I can see wearing this to the ball field (or in my case, the band field) this spring, or it’s just a nice casual piece for running errands and working from home. I like how it fits fairly close to the body, so it doesn’t add much bulk or visual weight, as some sweatshirts tend to do.

This is the size medium, and the color way is Awohol0125_mauve. Also, the fabric is 60% Cotton/40% Polyester.

I don’t think I could size down in this comfortably, plus it might shrink, so the medium is a good fit for me. That means I recommend sizing up, if ordering.

VERDICT: I may keep this; I’m not sure yet. I like it, but I don’t know if I’ll reach for it. Maybe I need to try it on with different jeans…

Urban Look Fleece Lined Hoodie

 jeans // sneakers

This sweatshirt is virtually identical to the one above, and I have no idea why they are two different brands. Amazon is so weird. I’m sorry, but someone had to say it…

Anyway. I like this one as well. Again, I really appreciate the slimmer fit through the body, and the length on this is nice, but I definitely prefer it with the longer jeans for a better overall balance.

I’m wearing the size medium in the color called A1 Solid Navy, and again, the fabric is 60% Cotton/40% Polyester. They have to be the same exact sweatshirt… I’m sure they’re sourced from the same factory.

VERDICT: I don’t know if it’s because I paired this one with a better length of jean, or if I am more drawn to the solid navy, but this one I’m definitely keeping. In fact, I kept it on yesterday after this try-on sesh, and I wore it all evening.

Daily Ritual Drop-Shoulder Short-Sleeve Scoop-Neck Shirt

 jeans // sneakers // cardigan

I’m usually pleased with the quality of Daily Ritual pieces (it’s one of Amazon’s proprietary brands) and this striped tee is no exception.

It has a really nice fit and feel and a great drape. The fabric is 95% Viscose/5% Elastane. My only complaint is the exaggerated curved hemline.

Here’s how it looks untucked — I would never wear it this way unless I wanted to wear it over leggings.

But it front-tucks nicely, and the slightly dropped shoulder with contrasting stripe pattern on the sleeves is a fun detail.

While I like how it looks styled simply with jeans and sneakers, it also makes a nice layering piece.

By the way, this cardigan is also a Daily Ritual piece. It’s very soft, sort of a lightweight sweatshirt material, and I wear it a lot in the springtime. It makes a nice, casual topper for chilly spring days.

For size reference, I have a small in both the t-shirt and the cardigan.

VERDICT: Keeping this tee. I think it will come in very handy this spring.

Levi’s 724 High Rise Straight Crop Jeans

also at Zappo’s and Macy’s // sweatshirt // sneakers

I also ordered these from Amazon. I have a white pair I wore a few times last summer, and I liked them for a straight cropped style, so I thought I would try a blue pair.

This color is called Lapis Sun, and it’s a size 29/8. I paid $34.98, but as is the case with Amazon, different sizes and washes are different prices.

According to the Amazon website, these are 92% Cotton/6% Elastomultiester/2% Elastane, and they have a 26″ inseam.

Also, you might notice the picture has a traditional sewn hem, and these have a raw/chewed hem. I can’t explain that, but I definitely ordered Lapis Sun.

I actually like the fit of these quite a bit, and the wash as well. They are cut fairly straight and sit pretty close to the thigh, and the length is good for pairing with sneakers. Plus, the price is fantastic, so there’s that!

VERDICT: Keeping! I can’t wait to start wearing these as the weather warms up. I’m excited that I’m finding some straight styles that I like. I recommend sizing up one, if ordering.

Madewell Stovepipe Jeans in Leman Wash

sweatshirt // sneakers

I ordered these because I thought they might have a similar fit to the pricier AG Mari style I’m liking right now, but with more of a cropped length. (These have a 27″ inseam and a 10 1/2″ rise; the Mari has a 29″ inseam and 10″ rise, by comparison.)

I actually rather like these jeans, I think because they’re more fitted through the thigh than most cropped skinny styles I’ve tried. The wash isn’t half bad either.

Here’s the fit from the back… sorry, the quality of these rear view shots is always dreadful.

They’re $135.00 $114.50 + 20% off with code WOWIE, so they come down to $91.60 in cart. They also come in petite and tall sizes.

My only concern is that these are very soft (they have some Tencel in them) and they might stretch out. They already look like they have the potential to sag a bit in the nether regions. I think I might need to try a size 27 to be sure.

VERDICT: Undecided; I just ordered the size 27 to compare. I will report back!

Okay, moving on to sneakers… I sent all the Golden Goose back. I just couldn’t commit, and I wanted them off my card. Instead, I thought I’d try to find a luxe sneaker that’s a little more under the radar, and if nothing quite satisfies, then I may revisit the GGDB (Golden Goose Deluxe Brand).

Axel Arigato Clean 90 Triple Sneakers

These Axel Arigato sneakers kept popping up on my radar, so I thought I’d give them a try. They have that clean design and minimalist aesthetic that I’m drawn to, and I appreciate the small detail of the contrasting blush tab.

Unfortunately, they just aren’t as comfortable as I was expecting for a luxury shoe brand with this reputation… not to mention the price tag.

I also ordered a pair with a snake print tab to compare… I wear a lot of black, so I thought I might like that added detail. and I like how it coordinates with the logo on the tongue of the shoe.

Axel Arigato Clean 90 Triple Animal Sneakers

These are the 38, and the ones with the blush tab are the 39. I need the 39, for sure. Definitely size up, if in between.

I was hoping to like these sneakers more than I do, considering the price point and the description (cushioned footbed and arch support for maximum comfort.) But I’m underwhelmed by how they look on my feet, and disappointed in the comfort level out of the box.

VERDICT: I guess I should have tried styling them with black before making up my mind, but I’m probably returning.

I also keep getting drawn to this style, which is about as sleek and clean as it gets, but I’m hesitant to order because I assume they will feel much the same as these. Maybe they break in to be quite comfortable, I don’t know… I think I’ll do some YouTube research before ruling them out.

P448 John Softy

By contrast, these P448s felt like putting on slippers. They are sososo comfortable right out of the box, and while the original retail price is similar to the Axel Arigato, these are on sale — 40% off at Bloomingdale’s.

You may be wondering why I have two different laces in some of these pictures. That’s because they came with the white iridescent laces, but the grey laces came in the box as an option.

I thought I’d like the contrast of the grey laces better than the white, but I actually like the cleaner look of them with the white laces, even though I’m not crazy about the glitter.

VERDICT: Undecided. These are cute and very fun, but they definitely have a different vibe than the Axel Arigato. I mean, they’re still a gorgeous luxe handmade leather sneaker, and they would be a nice shoe for transition season. I’m just not sure they’re exactly what I’m looking for.

BUT. They’re on sale and supremely comfortable, so I’m having a hard time sending them back, even though I really wanted to change it up with a different brand this time.

Sorel Out N About Plus Lace Sneaker

also at Zappo’s // similar jeans // turtleneck // jacket

While I was really on more of a luxe/elevated fashion sneaker hunt, these popped into my email inbox one day — Sorel’s newest sneaker offerings for Spring 2021. You know what a fan I am of Sorel, so I thought I would get right on it, and I ordered a couple pairs to test out.

Sorry, I didn’t get more pictures for some reason. But I was drawn to this black pair because I don’t have any black sneakers, and there are times I wish I did, although I will say, these don’t exactly scream SPRING to me. But I do feel like they would be a useful shoe to have.

They are incredibly lightweight and comfortable, and I can see these being great sight-seeing shoes… if we ever travel again. Since I’m on a camel and black kick lately, I thought the camel accent was a nice touch as well. (See more of this outfit below!)

VERDICT: Keeping, for now. Sorel has a 60-day return policy, so I’m saving the box and packaging, and I’ll see if I reach for them between now and the end of the return window.

Sorel Kinetic Impact Lace Sneaker

also at Zappo’s

I also ordered this pair, I just thought it was really fun, and I can see wearing these with joggers this spring.

They’re also supremely comfortable, lightweight, supportive, cushiony, all that jazz. I also like how they don’t have quite as high a shaft as the black pair, so there’s more foot/ankle showing, which is more slimming.

But I just cannot get past those crazy laces going under the shoe. And I do have my On Cloud X trainers in white with black accents, and I think these would serve much the same purpose, so I returned them.

VERDICT: As I said, I sent these back. They’re really cute though. I can see these being popular this spring.

GapFit Sherpa Jacket

turtleneck // similar jeans // sneakers

I’ve already shared this in one of my daily emails, my IG Story (saved to Try-Ons Highlight) and my JLS Insiders FB Group… but! If you missed it, grab one NOW because this price is amazing, and this jacket is super cute. It’s also verrrrry warm and cozy.

It’s $118.00 $49.99 + 50% off with code BIGSALE, and it runs true to size. I have the small.

The black has no contrasting trim, but I really like the minimalism, and I think it’s such a fun casual look.

I also ordered the ivory to try, and this one does have a contrasting trim, which is a nice detail.

Here’s how it looks zipped up…

My only complaint is the shoulders are kind of droopy, and the side pockets are placed awkwardly to actually use. But all things considered, for the price, this one is a keeper!

The only question is, do I keep the ivory or the black???

Vince Cabria Lug Water Resistant Lace-Up Boots

at Nordstrom // at Bloomingdale’s

Okay, so combat boots were totally NOT on my radar, but I was at the mall last week, and I spotted these at Nordstrom. They just struck me as the perfect combat boot for ME.

They’re Vince… hey, now. Don’t roll your eyes! But seriously, when you find a brand that resonates with you, it will call your name at every turn.

These boots have the perfect luxe minimalism, on trend but understated, and I also like how they zip on the inside so you don’t have to always lace and tie them.

The leather is really soft and gorgeous, and they are so so so comfortable. Everything is on point — quality, styling, convenient details… And even though the price is up there, honestly, it’s not terrible for Vince boots.

I did purchase them, with the intent of trying them out with my wardrobe and making a final decision after I see if I think I will really get a good ROI.

That said, I’m not sure how often I will wear them, and while these are actually a little less expensive than the Golden Goose sneakers, it did occur to me that I would surely wear the GGDB a lot more. For one thing, they are 4-season shoes, and for another, they will go with more of my outfits.

And yet, despite the obvious disparity in cost per wear, somehow these boots still seem easier to justify than the sneakers.

VERDICT: Undecided. These weren’t really on my radar, and it’s a hefty price tag for shoes I can only wear half of the year, and only with certain looks. But I do think this trend will be going strong for a few seasons, so they are probably worth purchasing if I can get them on sale.

C by Bloomingdale’s Cashmere Turtleneck

I ordered this when it went down to $36, and now the camel is sold out, but I wanted to compare it to the Halogen one I’ve been featuring in my 5 Ways to Wear a Camel Turtleneck.

I like how this one has a more traditional cut — no dropped shoulder or side slits. It is easy to wear untucked or front-tucked, and the tone is a bit cooler than the Halogen one.

VERDICT: Keeping. I will hold on to the Halogen too, for blog purposes. They will most likely bring it back next year, and it’s a nice option to have for outfit styling. If the blog weren’t a factor, I wouldn’t keep both.

And finally… a few sweaters from LOFT…

I met a friend for lunch yesterday, and then we stopped into LOFT and tried on a few things. (Don’t give me grief about the mask… it’s not a political statement. It’s the store’s requirement, and I respect that.)

LOFT Spacedye Slouchy V-Neck Cardigan

jeans // boots

I love the buttoned-up cardigan trend because it basically reads as a v-neck pullover (my favorite), but with the added interest of the buttons. I also like a spacedye knit — it adds an element of pattern and texture in a softer way than a bold print. I also really like this muted color palette.

This sweater is plenty soft (60% Acrylic, 15% Nylon, 25% Wool) and the cropped style is on trend, but it’s a wee bit short for the 10″ rise I typically prefer. I do have a few pairs of jeans with 11″ rise, and it might be okay with them, but it will definitely limit me as to what I can wear this with.

The droopy shoulders are trendy, but they definitely add visual bulk to an area where I don’t need it. Still, I rather like it, and it is on sale — $69.50 $49.99 + extra 60% off with code LOVEIT.

For size reference, this is a medium. They didn’t have a small in store, and I think I need the medium for length anyway.

VERDICT: I left it there, but now I’m having second thoughts. For the price, it’s a cute, trendy piece that I could enjoy wearing into spring. It would also be cute with white jeans.

LOFT Spacedye Sweater

jeans // boots

This cheerful little number caught my eye the second I walked into the store, and it was the first item I picked up to take into the dressing room with me.

You can wear it front-tucked or untucked, and I visualize this with light wash jeans or white jeans as we head into springtime.

I like the color palette a lot, although it may not be the most flattering on my skin tone. I also like the neckline, the on-shoulder seams, and the loosely woven texture.

This is a small, and I would say it’s true to size. The fabric is 100% Acrylic, and I fear it will “grow” as I wear it. It’s that kind of knit, you know what I mean?

And while I like the neckline, it’s already rather low. In fact, it’s already a big low for my comfort level, and if it stretches out at all… that’s a no bueno. If you like it, it’s 40% off with code LOVEIT.

VERDICT: This sweater has a lot of potential, but I’d prefer a different color and a slightly higher neckline, so it did not come home with me.

Lou & Grey Star Sweater

jeans // boots

How cute is this for a transition piece into spring!?! I love the cut, the body length, the neckline, the raglan sleeves, the textured knit, and the fun star print.

It looks good front-tucked or untucked.

It’s not bad with these jeans, but I would probably wear this with a lighter wash denim, maybe the Levi’s above, or you know, my trusty skinnies… and a lighter weight shoe.

It fits perfectly in the size small, and the fabric is 85% Cotton/15% Nylon. I do expect it would shrink a bit, but I would wash it on delicate and lay flat to dry and hope for the best.

Unfortunately, this one was NOT on sale… naturally! The one I really want is always the one not on sale. By the way, it also comes in petite.

VERDICT: I did purchase this, only because I want to photograph it for the blog. Otherwise, I would totally wait for a sale. I will keep my eye on it, and let you know!

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