Greetings and salutations on this last day of January! I’ve got a mid-week try-on haul for you today. I’ve got a bunch of tops and denim, a new pair of sneakers, and some athleisure looks to share with you!
Winter Fashion Try-On Haul: Denim, Tops & Athleisure
SIZING NOTES: I’m 5’5″ and I usually wear a small in tops and dresses, a 29 in jeans, and a size 8 shoe. Gifted items are indicated by c/o; everything else I purchased myself.
Treasure & Bond Oversize Johnny Collar Sweater
at Nordstrom (S) // PAIGE denim (29) // Vince Oasis (8)
I’m a big fan of the collared sweaters, and I thought this one looked cozy, and the price is right, but it is a strange shape. The collar is huge, and then it’s kind of big in the shoulders but too fitted at the waist.
Plus, it’s slightly shorter than ideal for my sweet spot range. It’s 21 1/2″ long and I generally prefer 22″ or 23″
VERDICT: I returned this one.
Vince Stripe V-Neck Cotton Blend Sweater
at Nordstrom (S) // PAIGE denim (29) // Dolce Vita loafers (8)
On the other end of the price spectrum, I had high hopes for this Vince cotton sweater, but the v-neck is oddly short and it’s overall kind of short and tight. In fact, I just realized it’s only 20 1/2″ long. No wonder I don’t care for it!
I could try sizing up for a looser fit, but I also detest that drop shoulder. I’m not sure why I didn’t notice it when I ordered it. Especially with the way the stripes are placed, they sort of extend the line of my shoulders, making them look even wider than they already are.
VERDICT: This one also went back. It’s a really nice quality, though, so if you don’t mind the short v-neck and drop shoulder, it might be worth a try. Or, if you prefer a raglan sleeve, as I do, I recently bought this stripe sweater, and it’s a winner! I just don’t have photos of it yet.
PAIGE Gemma Stretch Skinny Jeans in Sketchbook
at Saks (29) // at Nordstrom (29) // at Bloomies (29) // Vince sweater (S) // Dolce Vita loafers (8)
These jeans are what I would consider a modern version of a skinny jean. They’re more of a traditional style, as opposed to the legging ankle jeans we all wore for many years.
I like the dark wash with the whiskering at the hips and just a hint of sandblasting on the thighs and rear, for a lived-in look. They have a 12″ front rise and a 29″ inseam with a 12 1/2″ leg opening; and the fabric is 93% cotton, 5% polyester, 2% spandex.
I also have these in Black Lotus, which I shortened to wear with sneakers. I felt like I went too short, so I’m trying to leave this pair as-is and see if I like it better, but it really depends on the shoes.
They work well with these loafers, I think, but I’m not as crazy about them with the sneakers in the outfit above. I still like a sliver of ankle to show when I’m wearing slim straight leg jeans (or skinnies, evidently!)
VERDICT: Still deciding on these. I need to try them with some more outfits.
AGOLDE Kye Mid Rise Ankle Straight Leg Jeans in Notion
at Nordstrom (29) // at Bloomies (29) // Vince sweater (S) // Dolce Vita loafers (8)
This is more of a crop straight. They have a 10 1/4″ front rise and a 27″ inseam with a 15″ leg opening; and the fabric is 66% lyocell, 32% organic cotton, 2% recycled elastane.
They are super soft and very comfortable, but I don’t care for how they cut off the line of the leg. For some reason, I prefer a raw hem on crop straight leg jeans. It doesn’t seem to create such a harsh line of demarcation where the pant leg ends.
They look really cute on the Anthro model, with a sloppy cuff and loafers with socks, but I can’t pull that off.
VERDICT: These went back. Well, we aren’t getting very far, are we?!? Stay tuned, I promise, it gets better…
Kerry Tape Trim Hoodie
at Evereve (M) // KUT Reese (8) // P448 Monza (39)
I have this sweatshirt in the cherry red from last year, and shrunk up on me, so I happily gave myself permission to order a new one. I had a hard time deciding between the green and the lavender, but I went with green, and I love it.
I also sized up to a medium this time, in case it shrinks. I like the extra slouch, and it’s so soft and cozy and fun for this dreary time of year.
VERDICT: Keeping!
KUT from the Kloth Reese Utility Straight in Character
at Evereve (8) // green hoodie (2) // P448 Monza (39)
I was super excited to try these jeans. I really like the subtle utility details, the medium indigo wash, and the slim straight fit. They’re also remarkably comfortable, considering the price point. KUT from the Kloth has really upped their game in recent years.
These jeans have a 10 1/4″ front rise and a 27″ inseam with a 13 1/2″ leg opening; and the fabric is 69% cotton, 24% polyester, 6% rayon, 1% spandex. They also run a bit small for this brand. I needed the size 8 in these, and I wear 6 in most KUT from the Kloth jeans.
They do have rear flap pockets, although you can’t see the flaps the way the hoodie falls over them.
This is a slightly better view. The flaps are darker than the rest of the jeans, and call more attention to my rear view than I’d like, but it’s not a deal breaker.
Gap Relaxed Utility Jacket (S) // Kork Ease Darby Clogs (8)
VERDICT: Keeping these! I finally have another pair of straight ankle jeans to wear with sneakers!
KUT From The Kloth Jodi High Waist Wide Leg Utility Jeans
at Nordstrom (6) // Z Supply sweatshirt (S) // Kork-Ease clogs (8)
These are the wide leg utility jeans that one of you recommended to me when I was playing around with the AG Gatina pair a few weeks ago, and I finally got them in. This is my favorite pair that I’ve tried so far. Let’s review!
The AG pair is cut rather wide through the thighs, even though the leg opening is only 20″ wide. They’re also very long, so that I would need to hem them, if I want to wear them with flats, but I didn’t want to make that commitment to them yet.
AG Gatina (29) // Rails Cheyenne (S) // Marine Layer Deserae (S) // Marc Fisher Fabina (8)
The Gap Factory pair is a better length, but I feel like they may be even wider than the AG, and I think that’s why they look a little dumpy on me. Also, the flap pockets on the sides of the thighs seem more prominent than the ones on the AG pair.
Gap Factory Wide Leg Cargo Jeans (29) // Steve Madden Leopold (8) // GF Sherpa (S) // GF Crewneck (S)
This KUT from the Kloth pair is a little more fitted through the hips and thigh, but still creates a wide leg silhouette with a 22″ leg opening. (The measurements are 31 1/2″ inseam; 22″ leg opening; 10 1/2″ front rise.)
I also appreciate that there is no flap on the cargo patch pockets. Here’s how they look with an ivory sweater with a subtle high/low hem; I really like this outfit, actually!
KUT from the Kloth Jodi (6) // Treasure & Bond sweater (S) // Kork Ease Darby clogs (8)
I also like them with this polo neck sweater. I did not try them with sneakers, although I probably should, but I think they’ll be too long. They really look good with clogs, though, and I can see them with chunky sandals this summer.
Marine Layer sweater (S) // Kork Ease Darby clogs (8)
VERDICT: I think I’ll keep these, for now, at least. They’re a nice way to dip my toe into the trend, so to speak, without investing in premium denim.
Madewell Rolled-Neck Pullover Sweater in Stripe
at Madewell (S) // KUT Jodi (6) // Kork-Ease clogs (8)
I thought this sweater was cute when I saw it on the website; I like the stripe pattern, and that it isn’t navy with white or camel.
Unfortunately, it’s shorter and boxier than I like. It just sticks out kind of funny, without any drape. I took a chance when I saw that it was 21 3/4″ long, thinking it might work because I can occasionally do 22″ but in this case, I don’t think it’s doing much for me.
VERDICT: Going back. Maybe if you’re a little bit shorter, you’d like it.
FRAME Le Slim Palazzo in Jetty
at Evereve (29) // at Nordstrom (29) // at Saks (29) / / Madewell sweater (S) // Kork-Ease clogs (8)
I found these jeans at Evereve, but they’re also at Saks and Nordstrom (linked above.) The denim is suuuuuper soft, such good quality. I love FRAME denim; it’s right up there with PAIGE and MOTHER.
These jeans have a 10 3/4″ front rise and a 31″ inseam with a 22″ leg opening; and the fabric is 77% cotton, 18% modal, 4% elasterell-p, 1% elastane.
The released hem is a fun detail, and very much on trend right now, and the wide leg silhouette isn’t too voluminous, but they don’t seem to be cut as close to the thigh as the KUT from the Kloth cargo jeans.
I also tried them with a sporty pullover and suede booties… although I’m not sure why I thought this was a good combo. I feel like this sporty pullover needs a sneaker.
Z Supply sweatshirt (S) // Blondo Sadie (8)
Speaking of which… here’s the same top and jeans with sneakers. Unfortunately, the jeans are too long for me to wear with sneakers, and the released hems don’t really allow for tailoring. But I do think this style of jean would look great with this style of sneaker, if it were the right length.
Z Supply sweatshirt (S) // Vince Oasis (8)
VERDICT: I love how these feel on, and I think the fit is rather nice, so I am holding onto them for now. I want to play around with them some more. I feel like they might look cute with sandals this summer.
Z Supply Off The Court Sweatshirt
at Evereve (S) // KUT from the Kloth Goldie (6) // Vince Oasis (8)
This is more of a top than a sweatshirt, and it is soooo soft. It has a really nice drape, too. I love the collegiate yarn dye stripe accents at the neck and cuffs, for a more sporty look.
The fabric is 97% modal, 3% spandex, and the hem hangs straight, so you can front tuck or just let it hang. It’s only 21″ long, so I’m surprised it does’t feel too short to me, but it seems to work.
VERDICT: Totally keeping this! Love it.
KUT from the Kloth Goldie Wide Leg with Exaggerated Hem
at Evereve (6) // at Nordstrom (6) // at Zappos (6) // stripe pullover (S) // Blondo Sadie (8)
Okay, so these jeans are quite a statement! I like the wash, and the fit is good, but WOW. They are WIDE at the bottom, and that exaggerated trouser hem only emphasizes that aspect of them.
These have a 9 1/2″ front rise and a 31″ inseam with a 28″ leg opening. So yeah, that’s wide. The fabric is 94% cotton, 5% polyester, 1% spandex… very soft and comfy, but I don’t care for how they flap around when I walk. While these are fun, they’re too dramatic for my personal style.
VERDICT: I think I’ll be returning these. They’re a lot of fun, and maybe I’ll revisit them in the spring/summer, but for now, I’ll pass.
Gap Relaxed Utility Jacket
at Gap (S) // Frame Le Mid Rise V-Neck (XS) // KUT Goldie (6) // Hartley Stripe Pullover (S) // Kork-Ease clogs (8)
So y’all know how much I like a good jacket, and I found this one at Gap. I like how it brings the classic utility jacket into 2024.
The boxy, shorter style is a nice complement to higher rise denim styles. It actually looks pretty good with these dramatic wide leg jeans with the exaggerated hem.
I also tried this outfit with KUT From The Kloth Reese Utility Straight, and I like this even better. I feel like the volume in the jacket offsets the slimmer denim silhouette nicely, rather than matching the volume in the wide leg jeans above.
VERDICT: Keeping this jacket, for sure!
Vuori Granite Funnel Neck & High Waist Flare
funnel neck (S) // high waist flare (M) // P448 John (39)
I ordered this set before my Miraval retreat, and I love it. The brushed lining is so soft, and it has a nice elevated look and feel. I’m so annoyed that the funnel neck pullover is selling out.
The flares have the split hem and a nice wide waistband. I went with my usual size medium for Vuori bottoms and a small for the top. I ordered a medium top to compare, but it was way too schlumpy.
VERDICT: Keeping. I’ve worn them both already.
Vuori Granite Jogger
jogger (M) // funnel neck (S) // VEJA Esplar (39)
These joggers are made of the same 87% Recycled Polyester, 13% Elastane DreamKnit™ Warm fabric, and they have the shape of a more traditional jogger. I love the look and feel of these, even more so than the iconic Performance Jogger.
Here’s how they look with the matching funnel neck top. I love this set.
I also tried them with this Gap Oversized Icon Denim Jacket… This is kind of the look du jour. It’s a great way to making a matching sweatsuit look more intentional for running errands and casual everyday life.
VERDICT: Keeping all of the above!
Vuori Long Sleeve Halo Ruched Tee
at Vuori (L) // Vuori Granite Jogger (M) // VEJA Esplar (39)
I thought this could be a cute top for casual athleisure looks or maybe even pilates, although I usually like a sleeveless top for that because I get hot even if I don’t work up a sweat. Anyway! It’s cute, and the color is really pretty, but it’s very body-con, even in the size large. I’m not sure it does much for me. I’d rather wear a looser tee.
VERDICT: Returning this one.
Spanx AirEssentials Half Zip Sweatshirt and Wide Leg Pant
sweatshirt (S) // wide leg pants (M) // VEJA Esplar (39)
I also ordered this Spanx set, but the top didn’t arrive before I left for my trip, so I didn’t bring it with me. But I really love it, now that I’ve got the right sizes.
The top is a small, and the bottoms are a medium, and it’s such a nice way to look elevated yet casual for travel and casual errands. They feel so comfortable on, and they have a bit of a cooling effect, but they aren’t super thin, either.
VERDICT: Definitely keeping both of these. I’ve already worn this set a couple times around the house.
Sorel Women’s Kinetic Impact II Wonder Sneakers
at Bloomies // Spanx sweatshirt // Spanx wide leg pants
Finally, these Sorel sneakers are a great way to be casual and comfortable and still on trend. I think they work especially well with this athleisure look, but I ordered them to wear with jeans, so I really should have tried them that way too.
VERDICT: Deciding. I want to play around with them a bit more. They run a little small, so I returned this pair in the size 8 and re-ordered the 8 1/2.
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0 Responses
I am like everyone else, I love the try-on hauls you post. Thank you. I was in my local Nordstrom trying on jeans and the sales associate brought me the same Frame Palazzo jeans – they are amazing. It looks like the same wash but the jeans I tried didn’t have the same hemline. I wear them mostly with my platform Ugg shorties. I am not sure what i’ll do when the weather warms up and I want to wear tennis shoes with them (the pants are too long for that). I don’t wear clogs or anything with a heel, but I’ll figure that out in a couple months ☺️
Interesting, it looks like they come in a bunch of different washes! I might try one of the ones with the raw hem so I can cut them. They also have a shorter pair in the Jetty wash. I’ll try those first.
I was just at our local Nordstroms and purchased the Frame Slim Palazzo in the Lupine wash which has a raw hem. I LOVE THEM! The description says they are 31″ in length and for me they are just a tad shorter than I would like (I’m 5″6″) and I was able to go down a size which was nice. I will probably wear them with sneakers and flatter sandals in the Summer. I’m a 27 in all of my Mother jeans but purchased the Frames in a 26. I am thinking about getting another pair in the Jetty wash too. I loved that one on you, Jo-Lynne! Also, I am the one that told you about the KUT Jodi jeans. I’m so glad you like them and I think they look great on you. Like you said, it’s a nice way to try the trend without going all the way in! I hope you decide to keep them. Thank you for your posts!!!!
Do you ever model Chicos clothes? Their jeans have been a wonderful find for me. I tend to go with their solids not the flowery or bolder patterns.
No, I’m not a big Chicos shopper. 🙂
I know these posts take a lot of work but they’re my favorite and are so engaging. Thank you for doing these try ons! I work to be patient in between them😊
LOL! I need to figure out a way to make them more efficient. Amy helps a lot, with links and photo editing, but I still end up spending a lot of time organizing the pictures and formatting the post, then there is the writing, of course!
I can see how this type of post would take hours to create. Thank you for doing it for us, Jo-Lynne.
Love the Kut wide-leg utlity jeans. In my cart! Zappos also has them but I didn’t like the wash as much.
Why are so many sweaters designed with drop shoulders? With my wide shoulders and ample girls, I don’t care for them. I’m trying to make a new rule for myself–no drop shoulders except maybe in sweatshirts– because I find that those are the sweaters I own that I wear far less.
The Gap jacket is adorable. I think I have a similar old one from Gap. I might need a refresh!
I like the idea of the matching athleisure pieces and want to get used to the idea of wearing them to do errands. It’s a perfect solution to trying to transition to wearing sneakers more often. I bought the matching green Lou & Grey pieces and love them, but so far, I’ve only worn them around the house on Sundays. Maybe I’d be more comfortable in a matching black set.
Is that the correct link for the Treasure & Bond sweater? The sweater you’re wearing is long-sleeved and the one in the link appears to be elbow-length.
I’m the same, I wore the Lou & Grey set at home but it seems a little “loud” for wearing out. I feel better in the all black.
You are correct, that was the wrong sweater link. The one I’m wearing is this one.
One more question, Jo-Lynne. What weight is the hoodie from Evereve? It’s already sold out in green in my size but I thinking about ordering the lavender one. It would be a fun piece for spring when it’s still cold. I have lots of hoodies but most are heavy and I only wear them outside.
It’s a little thicker than average, nice for chilly spring weather. Actually, it’s not super thick, just very fleecy and soft inside. The hood is kind of thick b/c it’s doubled over.
So grateful for you taking all that work out for us by trying on all these new trends! I think it’s brave and bold as we head into our “mid-life” to try new things! I also really appreciate the range of price points – sometimes for a trend – I just don’t want to spend big $$$ so it’s great to have options from Gap/Ann Taylor Loft/etc. Also, Z Supply is killing it these days – one of my surprise favorite brands! I’ll be grabbing that v-neck for sure! xoxo
ooh also meant to post that I am so happy with ALL my Vuori pieces! I jump into them immediately when I get home from work and often end up sleeping in my performance joggers which now seem too light to wear out and about ! I’ll be grabbing that new set for sure too!
These posts, along with the What I Wore Lately, are my absolute favorite. And call me crazy, but I love that Madewell sweater on you. Also really like the ultra wide Kut jeans – I wonder how they would be with the Madewell sweater.
Yeah, not sure. The rise on the Goldie is lower than some, that Madewell sweater needs a high rise.
Thank you for all the work you put into these Try On Hauls. I was looking at those Kut Reese jeans and was hoping you would style them. I know you said the size 6 was small and you needed to size up. Were they really tight? I usually am a size 6 too. I saw someone posted on the review they were a little tight but stretched out a little after wearing for a bit. I know I can order both sizes but try to avoid returns if possible.
I definitely couldn’t get by with the 6. I wore the 8 for a good half a day and they didn’t bag out, but they did stretch in a comfortable way.
Thanks so much for the try on hauls. I appreciate them ! I am going to try the new Vuori joggers! I think I would wear them more in a thicker fabric. I’m loving the new Kut jeans too !
Thanks for all that you do.
Let me know how you like them. They aren’t a lot thicker, not like a typical sweatpant, but they have a nice brushed interior and feel warmer than the Performance joggers.
I wish the Kut straight utility jeans didn’t have the flap pockets on the back. I didn’t know that and now glad I didn’t order them. I love the look, but just not on my behind. LOL I really need another casual straight jean that is ankle length to wear with sneakers. Could you feature more? I just don’t think the wide leg jeans work for my height. i just received the Wit n’ Wisdom ones with the lighter hemmed cuff look that Cyndi styled and I love the look but not sure on me. I too want to hold onto them, as I might like them best with sandals. Could you feature more Wit n’ Wisdom jeans? They just fit so great and for the price point good quality. I love the athleisure you are featuring here. I wish they came in “shorts.” Great informative post.
It’s funny because the Reese jeans were too short on me. I was hoping for talls. Good thing Jolynne shows all brands. Good luck in your search for straights. That’s my hardest thing to find too !
Thank you for the post!
Actually, I really like the Kut Goldie Wide Legs jeans! I do think they need a heel, though, and they would on my 5’4″ body. I have the same clogs you showed with them, and I recently picked them up in black on “extreme clearance” at Dillards. They’re the most comfy and stable clogs I’ve ever had.
I looooooove the Kut Reese utility jeans! I may have to grab those. And the Kut Jodi!!! What to do??? Darn it, Jo-Lynne! I’m so tempted by so many things in this particular try-on haul. And like others have said, I really enjoy the hauls. Thanks for helping me update my look!
How do you measure the length of a top or sweater?
From the shoulder to the hem. Most websites offer those measurements, which is where I’m quoting from.
The only jeans I like are the Kut from the Kloth utility straight and wide leg. I think the last one with the really wide legs and slit looks comical. The eye goes down to the ankles and that’s all you see. I like wide leg styles but some are over the top. Only teens can get away with those crazy styles in my opinion. I like the sweaters and athletic wear. Those short sweaters would work for me.
I actually think they look terrific the way they are styled on the Evereve site with a blouse and low-heel sandals. I typically think very wide pants/jeans look best with sandals. It seems like somehow they just need the elegance of slimmer footwear to make them less comical.
That’s a good point. I also found the wide leg styles easier last summer than I did this winter.
I really like that black and white v neck sweatshirt by Z Supply but it’s only available in XL now which would be too big. Not familiar with Z Supply brand and have never ordered from Evereve, is that brand exclusive to Evereve? Or is there another place to order it from. Those jeans that are really wide at hem are hilarious. Reminds me of longer version of gaucho pants!
Z Supply is sold in a lot of boutiques and sometimes at department stores like Nordstrom. You can also order directly from Z Supply, but this top seems to be sold out there, as well. You may be able to google and find it elsewhere.
Thank you! I went ahead and provided my email address in case it comes back in stock.
Hi Paula – the Z Supply top is back in stock in S and M.
What size did you order in the Gap Jean jacket? I may have missed it in your post but I really like it!
On another note, I am happy that wide legs are “in.” For the moment as I have been in a leg cast for the last 2 months! lol! Can’t wait till it’s off to get back to my straight legs and flares!
Wow, I bet wide leg jeans are definitely a life saver right now. The Gap jean jacket is a small.
I’m glad you are featuring slim straight jeans. I’m dipping my toe into the wide leg trend, but only in a very mild way like trouser cut with heels. I’m too short for the baggy ones with flats and don’t love that look for myself anyway. I’ve found the slim straights to be my favorite silhouette for wearing with casual outfits and flats/ tennis shoes. So glad to see a couple recommendations!
I am currently participating in adore your wardrobe and have identified that I’m a short waisted pear. Could you please share what boy type you are? Thanks
According to AYW, I’m currently a short-waisted pear. However, I don’t find that traditional pear body type rules apply to me because I have wide shoulders. Before my breast reduction, I was a short waisted curvy, and I still find those body type rules to work best for me. I know Kelly doesn’t believe in using shoulder measurements, but some other body type experts do, so… I just go with looks best to my eye. 🙂
Thank you.
Fun post! I also like these try-on hauls. I’m about an inch shorter than you but very similar build. When I see it on you I think maaaybee it will work on me too☺️ I’m starting to come around to some of the new jean styles. I’ve always liked boot and straight. When skinny’s were in I wore more of a cigarette style until I got used to them. Now we have the super wide leg jeans. I was surprised how much I like the Jodi. They looked great with so many of the tops you styled them with. Somehow they manage to look slim even with the wider leg. I’m going to have to try those and see how they look on me.
Yep, I’ll jump on the “I love try on hauls’ bandwagon. Can we get more shoes, especially heels? I don’t see much of that lately and although my lifestyle is casual, I still love wearing them when I go out.
I pretty much agree with all your assessments. I just got the Kerry hoodie in lavender and knowing that it shrinks, I’ll be careful when washing, as I bought my usual XS. I also have the Reese utility pants and those are so unique. I’ve been really tired of same old same old jeans lately and these are fresh. I did size down and found the 2 to be a little snug but it loosened up just enough as I wore it around. Kut does seem to be doing a really good job lately.
The wideleg jeans are all over Instagram and websites, but I’m not seeing anyone wearing them in my area. And I live about 40 miles from DC so not exactly the sticks, but everyone is still wearing skinnies. Occasionally I see some good fashion but rare. Maybe widelegs will be around more in the summer. I have one wide leg pair from Kut, and I’m not going to buy more unless I can find more ways to wear them.
One question about Vuori (which I love): Did you try the Granite hoodie? Thinking about getting that with the pants.
No, I didn’t notice it. But anything from that collection would be great!
That Spanx set looks absolutely adorable on you!
Quick question about the Vuori granite joggers…are they warmer than the Performance joggers?
Maybe a little bit. They don’t have that same cooling feeling, b/c of the cozy fleece lining. It’s a thin fleece, tho.