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Winter Try-On Haul + Best Weekend Sale Picks

Well, hello Saturday! Fancy seeing you again so soon!

Today I have my usual Try-On Haul for you, and then I’m hoping to get my Gift Guide for the Women Who Has Everything posted this afternoon. That’s basically Jo-Lynne Shane’s Favorite Things, ha! (I was thinking of doing a Favorite Things theme for my first Facebook Live… would you all like that?)

Yes, I’m bringing Lives back! The first one will be Tuesday, December 3rd, at 1PM EST, and I’m going to do my best to have them every Tuesday at 1PM after that. The holidays may be hit or miss, but I’ll be able to be consistent with them starting in January.

For today, I have a smattering of try-ons from various retailers. I don’t have a ton of things to show you, but enough that I didn’t want to put it off till next week. Then at the end, I’m rounding up some of the best sale items I’m seeing so far this weekend — including the best deal on the highly coveted Dyson hair dryer.

WINTER TRY-ON HAUL + BEST WEEKEND SALE PICKS

Try-On Haul: White House Black Market, Everlane, LOFT, & Gibson

For size reference, I’m 5’5″ and 140#, give or take. I typically wear a small in tops, 6 or 8 (28 or 29) in pants and jeans, and an 8 in dresses. All descriptions are below the pictures.

White House Black Market Try-Ons

First up, an order from White House Black Market. They were running a flash 40% off sale for WHBM Rewards members, so I got a good deal on these pieces because I also got the additional 5% off for being a WHBM Rewards member.

It’s free to join and definitely worth it. You also earn points you can apply to future purchases. Also, WHBM is Shoprunner eligible, so I always get free shipping.

White House Black Market Sequin-Front Tank (size S) // I’m starting with my favorite fashion find from this week — this draped neck tank sequin-front tank is holiday perfection.

I love the fit, it’s lined for comfort and coverage, and the back is a comfortable jersey material. It runs true to size, or size down if in between; I’m in the small.

VERDICT: KEEPING!!! Cannot WAIT to wear this.

WHBM High-Rise Coated Skinny Jeans (size 6) // I really like these pants, way more than I thought I would. They’re thinner than the coated jeans I had in the past (I finally donated those after last season) and stretchy and comfortable.

They have a comfortable 10″ rise; and they come in regular, short, and long lengths (I’m wearing regular with a 30″ inseam.) The website actually says: Designed to hit below ankle, so while these are longer than the jeans I typically wear, this is the right length for these, and I love how they create such a flattering long, lean leg line.

SIZING NOTE: I would say these run a little big. The 6 fits me fine, and if they stretch out at all, they could be too big. I’m currently at the tippy-tip-top end of my comfortable weight range… which is to say I’m not comfortable at all, ha! In the past, I would struggle at WHBM when I’m this weight, and find myself in between 6 and 8. So my point is, if at all in doubt, size down in these. (They’re great pants tho!)

VERDICT: KEEPING!

ALSO WEARING: My leather jacket and pumps are old.

WHBM Metallic-Jacquard Slim Ankle Pants (size 6) // I am pretty sure I ordered these with a specific top in mind… and when they arrived, I couldn’t remember what I wanted to pair them with. I do that a lot. #occupationalhazards

At any rate, I thought they were a nice alternative to the plain black pants so many of us wear with our dressy tops at holiday time. They’re still dark enough and conservative enough to wear to the office or church events, but the metallic-jacquard print gives them a little extra pizzazz, and they allow you to wear them with a black top.

That said, I don’t love the fit. They seem a little matronly — and yes, I know that is a controversial word, but I am not yet a matron, and don’t want to look like one. If you are, these may be gorgeous on you.

And I don’t say that to be insulting at all. I do think these pants would be very nice on those who want something not as snug-fitting or as edgy as the coated jeans above.

SIZING NOTE: These run big, for sure. They are too big on me in the size 6 (see how they sag in the crotch area. #hatethatword) And as I said above, I am not at my thinnest right now, so I would recommend sizing down one in these.

VERDICT: Returning.

ALSO WEARING: My turtleneck and pumps are old.

WHBM Plaid Boot Skirt (size 6; need an 8) // I used to love skirts like this back in the day… when our tops were designed to fit nicely with them. HA! I didn’t have anything quite like I wanted so I put it on with this chunky turtleneck — that does seem to be the style du jour, although I’d prefer a more fitted top.

Anyway. The skirt itself is adorable… but short. I would DEFINITELY wear black tights with this. I just didn’t have time to deal with them the day I was doing these try-ons. I recommend a thick, opaque black tight. My go-to are these Spanx because they double as shapewear.

SIZING NOTE: This skirt runs true to size; it’s a big snug on me in the 6. I would like to try an 8.

VERDICT: Returning; I may try an 8 if it goes on sale again.

ALSO WEARING: My boots are old… sensing a pattern here? All of the “also wearing” pieces are closet staples I’ve had for years. #costperwearbaby

Gibson Look Try-Ons

Gibson has rolled out some new pieces for winter and holiday, and the ones I’m most excited about are part of the collab with Gibson and Cyndi Spivey!

Cyndi Spivey Velvet Lace Mix Holiday Top (size M; need a S) // Super excited for Cyndi’s collab with Gibson. She’s been wanting her own clothing line for a long time, and hopefully this is just the beginning! This top is a really pretty mix of velvet and lace.

She designed it to be worn with a regular bra (I wore nude so the straps don’t really show because the lace is busy enough to distract from them — but you could wear black if it has pretty straps, and make it look more intentional.)

It’s on the longer side so I would do a front-tuck, but I also showed it untucked so you can see the length. It has a gathered neckline, a keyhole closure in the back, and a curved hemline.

SIZING NOTE: It runs TTS for Gibson (size down if in between in other brands.) I’m wearing the medium because that’s what they had available, but a small would be a better fit.

VERDICT: Keeping, of course!

ALSO WEARING: LOFT flower drop earrings with WHBM High-Rise Coated Skinny Jeans, old pumps, and R Minkoff Leo clutch

Gibson Look Cozy Fleece Convertible Crossover T-Neck (size S) // This top is supremely soft, has a great drape, so so so comfortable! It comes in a bunch of colors, and it’s on sale.

It’s longer than the tops I typically wear, and because the crossover back I wouldn’t front-tuck it, but it’s fun if you want something cozy and comfortable with a relaxed fit.

ALSO WEARING: Frame Le High Ankle Skinny Jeans with R Minkoff mules (similar)

Gibson Look Fuzzy Teddy Bear Hooded Pullover (size S) // I love, love, love this top. It is so comfortable, not as thick as some of the teddy bear hoodies, so it doesn’t add so much visual weight. Plus it actually has some shaping through the waist.

It also has a really soft lining inside. It’s TTS; the small fits me perfectly.

The moment my 14-year-old laid eyes on it, she starting making a case for it. I wore it on Wednesday, loved it, but then I caved and let her have it. She wore it to school yesterday and loves it.

(I realize that probably makes her sound like a brat, but she is not. I often let her have things I’m done with, since I cycle so many pieces through my closet. I figured she will get more wear out of this than I will, so I went ahead and let her take it.)

VERDICT: Keeping, of course. In fact, I’ve got a good mind to order another one for myself. I’m kinda digging that pink blush…

ALSO WEARING: AG Farrah skinnies (sale option) with UGG Quincey boots (LOVE; size up!)

LOFT Try-Ons (40% off sitewide or 50% off for LOFT cardholders)

Just a couple things from LOFT this week. I shared most of the items from this order in last week’s try-on haul, but a few came in this week.

LOFT Bow Mules (size 8) // These shoes are so fun, and I thought they were really fun with the Cyndi Spivey top and blue jeans. Unfortunately, they are totally un-walkable. I do not recommend for that reason. I wish they made them with backs on them — the toe on them is so cute.

VERDICT: Returning.

ALSO WEARING: Cyndi Spivey velvet & lace top with AG Farrah skinnies (sale option)

LOFT Tie Cuff Sweater (size S) // I think this sweater is adorable. It’s got 3/4 sleeves, so perfect for those of you in warmer climates, and the color is so pretty and unexpected. I paired it with grey jeans, and I like it, but it would also be nice with winter white cords.

It’s soft and comfortable, and runs true to size.

ALSO WEARING: Frame Le High Ankle Skinny Jeans with R Minkoff mules (similar)

Everlane Try-Ons

Everlane sent me two of their pieces to try, and you know what a fan I am of this brand!

Everlane The Cashmere Crew (size S) // This is a gorgeous sweater, such good quality, and I love this loden green.

Crewnecks aren’t my favorite neckline, but they do make a nice layering piece for under leather jackets with scarves. I don’t like to wear a scarf with a turtleneck — too bulky — and they sometimes look weird with a v-neck. Thinner scarves don’t always cover the exposed skin.

SIZING NOTE: This sweater runs true to size, and the small fits nicely but snug to the body. I might prefer to size up for a more relaxed fit.

VERDICT: Keeping!

Everlane Authentic Stretch High-Rise Skinny Button Fly (size 8 ankle) // I’ve tried a lot of Everlane jeans, and I’ve never really cared for a pair of them until now.

These have a really nice fit and feel — they’re very stretchy, like to the point that I thought they were too small, but once I got them buttoned up, I loved how they felt and looked on, and they have away of holding me in in all the right places.

I got the ankle length, which is a 26.5″ inseam, and I really like them. They also look good with ankle boots, although I didn’t get pictures wearing them that way. I did some live try-ons over on my Insta Story, and they’re saved to highlights, if you want to check that out.

This off-black color is trending right now, and I really like it for a casual-cool vibe.

ALSO WEARING: R Minkoff mules (similar)

VERDICT: Keeping!

Weekend Sale Picks

Before I let you go, I wanted to round up some of the best sale items I’m seeing so far this weekend. These are specific items that I think are a really good deal and might sell out, so I don’t want you to miss them.

20% off Dyson Hair Dryer + Stand {Gift Set}

The first and most notable is the highly coveted Dyson hair dryer. I borrowed Cyndi’s when I was in Nashville, and I was blown away (see what I did there???) by the difference in how fast it dried my hair and how smooth and manageable my hair was.

The most impressive part was that it lasted through an entire day of air travel, and looked just as good when I got home as it did that morning.

I had never considered this hair dryer before, I’ve been perfectly happy with my T3, but the difference was so noticeable that I decided to see if I could find a deal on it.

Lo and behold, I found the Dyson hair dryer on Amazon with 20% off for Prime members, AND it’s a holiday gift edition that comes with the stand! (Usually the stand is sold separately.) I do like to keep my hair dryer on my bathroom counter, so this was a huge bonus. It holds all the attachments too.

I decided it was too good to pass up — even if there are better deals over Black Friday weekend, I hear it sold out last year, so I figured I’m better safe than sorry.

And here’s the craziest thing. I ordered it at 9AM on Thursday morning, and it was on my doorstep that night before I went to bed. Not that anyone needs same day shipping, but I thought that was nuts!!!

So anyway… I share all this because I’m sure this hair dryer is on a lot of holiday wish lists, and this is an excellent opportunity to get the gift set with stand (a $435 value) for $320.

And please… if you are reading this and are tempted to vent about the insanity of a $400 hair dryer, there is no need to comment and say so. I am well aware that there are people who think it’s ridonkulous. I did too before I tried it, but when I saw other bloggers reviewing it, I didn’t tell them so. I just kept scrolling. #pleaseandthankyou

Winter Boots on Sale

Okay, moving on to boots!

Bloomingdale’s has TONS of boots on sale, plus they’re running a $25 every $150 you spend promo. There are some pretty sweet deals on Stuart Weitzman boots and shoes, including these Ledyland OTK boots.

I also found these Marc Fisher LTD. Idella Shearling Hiker Boots for 30% off PLUS an additional 25% off that.

I really love his styling, but the retail price tag is pretty hefty. This is the first time I’ve seen them on sale. In fact, there are several Marc Fisher styles on sale at Bloomingdale’s.

And at Nordstrom, the Aquatalia ankle boots from the #NSale are on 40% off and fully stocked in the black suede. (They also come in navy, grey, and burgundy.) I don’t remember what price they were during the sale, but I’m sure they weren’t less than that.

These boots are waterproof suede, and they’re known for their comfort and durability. They’re perfect for those of us in messy climates.

I’ve seen other reviews and the shaft is very soft and comfortable, and it fits close to the leg so you can wear them under all styles of jeans — skinnies, straight, boot, all of them!

And because time is running out, I’ll add a shopping widget below with these and the rest of my top picks of the weekend!

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24 Responses

  1. I received the Dyson blowdryer as a gift a while back. I thought it was absurd to spend that on a hair dryer. Was I wrong. I love it SO MUCH. I won’t go anywhere without it, and I went on about it so much my sister and sister-in-law both got one. They love it. It is worth it!!

  2. I love so many of the things you posted. The WHBM stuff is just gorgeous! The Cyndi Spivey in black velvet is perfection.My eyes’s on that teddy pullover as a gift for one of my daughters. So many fun things. I think I’m going to hold off till Black Friday for that Dyson(May be a huge mistake1). I’d very much look forward to a Live on You Favorite Things. Have a Wonderful Thanksgiving!

  3. Thank you for posting a picture of the back of Cyndi’s top. Haven’t seen the back of it anywhere. Love the coated denim and Ugg boots ! Also you have me curious about the blow dryer. 

  4. Great pieces! I used to love those little skirts too back in the day, but can’t even find tops to wear with them now. Too long, too big, or too tight ;-( I can’t get the proportions right!

  5. I loved the haul try on! I wasn’t sure about the WHBM tank but, now that I see it on with the black coated pants, I love it! 🥰 Not sure on the Gibson, it’s beautiful but I am concerned on the sleeves being itchy and neck area, with eczema it’s challenging for me!
    My son bought me the Dyson for Christmas, that will arrive today, but I have to wait… I am so excited after reading all the positive reviews!!

    Thanks again for all you do! Looking back through years of photos, I really had no way of knowing how to dress until I stumbled upon bloggers.. that’s really been a informative change for me in my life!!! I feel better,and look better, I really appreciate you 🥰.. have a blessed day!!

  6. I am just wondering if getting hair dry is a tough problem for most people? I have had short hair my whole adult life and didn’t realize that it took so long to dry hair with a regular dryer?  Or I guess I am just wondering honestly what the big difference is in the higher price one?

    1. So for me, the drying time isn’t a big draw b/c my hair is thin and dries quickly, but my friends with longer, thicker hair say it makes a big difference in their overall get-ready time.

      What was compelling to me was how well my hair styled with it – less frizz, more manageable, nicer texture, and it stayed all day. Then there are other perks – it’s quieter and smaller than most, and I love the stand, but I wouldn’t necessarily pay more for those features; I see them as an added bonus.

    2. Its a fair question…. For hair longer than shoulder length, hair can go frizzy or flat (no volume) when it naturally dries. Blowing drying it with the right hair styling products (mousse, smoothing oil, curling brush) smooths the frizz out so I don’t look like a Q-tip. Also gives nice shape and body so that my hair does just hang in a frizzy mess. But, the heat from blow dryers can be damaging hence some blow dryers are better than others. Would love to try the Dyson!! Its a luxury, not a necessity. #firstworldproblems!
      😉

  7. I love the Cyndi Spivey top with denim & cranberry colored shoes! I am considering ordering it for my work holiday party and asked a slew of questions about it on your JLS FB group yesterday (don’t know if you saw it). I’m sensitive to fabrics and have a hard time with itchy fabrics (ever since menopause- so weird) so that was my number one concern with the lace. Also, is it available at Nordstrom? I have several gift cards from my birthday to spend. 

    Oh the hair dryer, JoLynne…..🤦‍♀️🙈🙉🙊 I will keep my big mouth shut because I adore you. ❤️ And if it makes people happy well then go for it.  I started using Oribe hair products which really make my hair shiny and smooth. Have you tried them? I subscribe to Birchbox and got a lot of samples from them in my monthly boxes and now I’m hooked. 😊

      1. Yes- thank you for all the answers! I posted this comment before I’d checked FB. You are awesome and I appreciate how you connect with all of your followers. ❤️
        Check out Oribe! If you get an affiliate link I’ll buy through you. (I usually buy my products from Sephora.) 

  8. Last year as one of my Christmas gifts I got the t3 curling iron and it’s worth every penny… I’m really starting to think the dyson blow dryer would be a nice addition as well… my hair is thick and below my shoulders and I’m getting tired of a sore arm from blowing it dry. I think especially as we age investing in quality pieces that will last is wort the price tag. We may not need as much but invest in the little we need😀.
    Loved your holiday pieces and Cyndi’s blouse is a real winner. 

  9. You are 100% correct about the Dyson. I am a hairdresser of 31 years, and just FINALLY caved in the spring once I found out there’s a special Dyson for stylists. I have had clients order it while sitting in my chair. It is most definitely a luxury item, but your personal business if you want to take the splurge-and I appreciate your comment about it. You do so much to make fashion much more accessible to all of your followers, and I would be disappointed if anyone would leave you negative feed back. Thank you for all that you do!

    1. The positive comments far outweigh the negative, but the negative ones have a way of sticking in your craw… lol!

      Thanks for the professional recommendation. My daughter (who has very thick, wavy, difficult to manage hair… and has tried all the things she can afford) tried my Dyson last night, and she was duly impressed. I can’t wait to use it for the first time this morning!

  10. I have long, thick wavy hair and I almost never dry it with a hairdryer because it makes it too frizzy. But I have noticed that as I get older, I’m losing a lot of the waves letting it air dry. Now I’m wondering if a Dyson hairdryer would be the answer. I might just have to treat myself one of these days.

    I have the WHBM coated jeans in black and gray and I love them! I’m loving the high-waist trend because I never have to hike them up! These jeans will be my go-to holiday pants for all the casual parties and events I’ll be going to. They are so easy to dress up but also look great with a T or a sweater for a fun, edgy vibe. I was in between sizes and I went with the smaller as they do loosen up a little.

  11. Thanks JoLynne! I just ordered the Dyson hairdryer on Amazon and will pay 6 equal payments with no interest. This will be my Christmas present from hubby (he doesn’t know this yet, lol). My thin, frizzy hair is looking forward to this fabulous device! Question: what type and size of brush do you use?

    I tried the link for the Everlane jeans, but I had to create an account and I didn’t want to. What’s the price and can I get them at Nordstroms?

    Thanks again for all you do! Happy Thanksgiving.

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