Cozy Sweaters, Relaxed Layers, and New Denim Styles

SIZING NOTES: I’m 5’5″ and I usually wear a small or medium in tops and dresses, a 29 or 30 in jeans and pants, and a size 8 shoe. Gifted items are indicated by c/o; everything else I purchased myself.

As usual, I will provide measurements and fabric content on each item when I can find it, and I’ll share whether I plan to keep it or not. Just remember, even when I decide not to keep something, it doesn’t mean it isn’t worth checking out. I just may not need it, or it may not work for my body type or lifestyle.

PAIGE Leenah Ankle in Walk Of Fame

at Evereve (29) // on sale at Paige.com // Evereve Baylor Corset Hoodie (S) // similar boots (8)

DETAILS: This sleek wide leg is designed with a high-rise, a flattering bow leg and an easy ankle length inseam that can be paired with any shoe heel height. This must-have pair is crafted from our customer-favorite PAIGE VINTAGE denim in a classic light wash with vintage-inspired details and a raw hem. — PAIGE

• 10 7/8″ Front Rise; 28″ Inseam; 20″ Leg Opening
• 99% Cotton, 1% Elastane
• Machine Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low

I’m already a fan off the PAIGE Leenah 32″ Wide Leg Jeans, so when I saw this ankle-length pair in-store, I grabbed them to try. The Leenah isn’t as wide and billowy as some wide leg styles. The popular KUT from the Kloth Meg, for example, has a 29″ inseam with a 23″ leg opening. The Leenah also has a subtle bow leg shape that I personally find very flattering. In fact, they almost read as a subtle flare.

The medium blue wash has some subtle whiskering at the hips and fading throughout that gives them that vintage, lived-in feel, and because it’s only 1% Elastane, they have a slightly more rigid feel than I’m used to, but they do break in easily.

VERDICT: I bought these, and I’ve already worn them once. They work well with boots or sneakers, which is exactly what I need in my denim wardrobe. I’ve been wanting more denim options to wear with sneakers.

Edison Brushed Pullover in Dark Charcoal

at Evereve (S) // PAIGE Leenah Ankle (29) // similar boots (8)

DETAILS: Made from ultra-soft brushed fabric, this EVEREVE pullover will be your new favorite go-to, featuring a crewneck silhouette, banded hem, and long puff sleeves with paneled dropped shoulders. Add it to your everyday rotation with jeans, joggers, or cargo pants. — EVEREVE

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 23 1/2″
• 90% Polyester, 5% Rayon, 5% Spandex Brushed Knit
• Machine Wash, Tumble Dry Low

I wanted to love this pullover because it’s the softest brushed knit, and I like the charcoal color a lot, but the puff sleeves with paneled dropped shoulders was the deal breaker. I’m also not a huge fan of the banded hem.

A lot of ladies like that feature because it’s easy, and you know what to do with it. (Meaning, you don’t have to wonder if you should tuck it or front tuck it or leave it out… Although, I noticed the model did front tuck it, which I think looks odd, but whatever.) But I never really care for it because it creates a horizontal line right across the mid-section, and then it often bubbles out over top of the band. I prefer tops that hang straight.

VERDICT: That’s a long way of saying, I did not bring this one home with me!

Nation LTD Darlene Envelope Neck Sweatshirt in Graphite

at Evereve (M) // MOTHER Weekender (29) // similar boots (8)

DETAILS: Perfect for dressing up or keeping casual, the Darlene sweatshirt by Nation LTD is crafted in soft fleece fabric and features an envelope neckline, fitted ribbed hem, and roomy long sleeves. — EVEREVE

• Neckline: Boat Neck
• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 21 3/4″
• Material: 100% Cotton Knit
• Machine Wash, Wash Cold, Tumble Dry

I also had high hopes for this pullover, as I really like that shade of blue, and Nation LTD makes really nice quality garments. The 100% cotton knit has a really nice dense feel to it, and I’m looking for more casual non-sweater options both for my own winter closet and to feature for those of you who are also in the market for them. I think some of you will probably like this, but it fell a little flat for me.

The quality is certainly there, but I didn’t love how tight that wide banded hem sat at my waist. I was hoping for a little more of a boxy shape. I sized up to the medium, which is what I’m wearing here, but it was still too snug in the waistband for my comfort level. Also, while I like the design of the boatneck in theory, I know I’d be futzing with my bra straps all the time.

VERDICT: I did not purchase this one either.

Baylor Corset Hoodie

at Evereve (M) // PAIGE Leenah Ankle (29) // similar boots (8)

DETAILS: Designed with a seamed corset hem, this stylish EVEREVE sweatshirt features a cropped silhouette with an adjustable drawstring hood and long sleeves. Add it to your fall rotation with jeans or cargo pants. — EVEREVE

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 21″
• 85% Cotton, 15% Polyester Knit
• Machine Wash Cold, Dry Flat

It appears that cropped sweatshirts with banded hems are trending this season! This seamed corset hem, as they call it, is a fun detail, but I tried on both the small and the medium, and both felt too short for my comfort level. I don’t know what’s up with their measurements, but this can be no more than 20″ long.

VERDICT: I did not bring this home, either.

Evereve Kit Sporty Stripe Raglan

at Evereve (M) // MOTHER Weekender Layover (29) // similar boots (8)

DETAILS: Striped raglan seams lend a sporty feel to this long sleeve tee by EVEREVE, crafted in slub knit fabric with a crew neckline, curved hem, and ribbed trim at the collar and cuffs. — EVEREVE

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 24″
• 60% Cotton, 40% Modal Slub Knit
• Machine Wash Cold, Dry Flat

This sporty tee has the raglan sleeves I love with the addition of a fun stripe detail. I also appreciate the generous sleeve length with banded cuffs, but I’ve never really been a fan of the curved hem. I know it’s part of the sporty vibe, but I feel like it draws undue attention to my hips.

NOTE: If you have a straighter body type, it might create flattering curves. A lot of ladies like this hemline.

VERDICT: I don’t hate it; in fact, looking back at these pictures, I’m thinking I should have bought it. But I guess I just wasn’t feeling it at the time. It would be cute with ankle length jeans and sneakers this spring. I might reconsider.

Isabel Hoodie Lady Like

at Evereve (M) // MOTHER Weekender (29) // similar boots (8)

DETAILS: Elevate your sweater collection with the Isabel hoodie by EVEREVE. Topped with navy stripes, this hooded cardigan features a button-front silhouette, cropped length, and long raglan sleeves. — EVEREVE

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 20 1/4″
• 48% Rayon, 31% Polyester, 21% Nylon Knit
• Machine Wash Cold, Dry Flat

Okay, now we’re talking! I love this stripe sweater with the straight, boxy fit with the cropped length. It has just the right amount of slouch, but it still has a polished look to it. (I think they were measuring a smaller size; I’m pretty sure this is at least 21″ long, maybe even 22″?)

I’m also a huge fan of the navy and ivory stripes, and you know how I love a hoodie. Plus, it has raglan sleeves (my favorite!) and a generous sleeve length, and the contrasting buttons add a fun element of interest.

VERDICT: I bought this one! I think it will make a great little transition piece, as we head into spring, and it would also look cute with shorts when I go to Florida next month.

Evereve Thea Crew Pullover in Grey-Pink

at Evereve (S) // Mother Weekender (29) // similar boots (8)

DETAILS: Top off your sweater-weather wardrobe with the Thea pullover by EVEREVE. Perfect for dressing up or down, this stylish striped sweater features a crewneck silhouette, raglan sleeves, and ribbed trim at the collar, cuffs, and hem. — EVEREVE

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 23 1/2″
• 61% Polyester, 26% Nylon, 13% Acrylic Knit
• Hand Wash, Wash Cold, Dry Flat

This sweater has an easy fit with raglan sleeves and wide rib trim cuffs, which are a lot of fun, and I think this grey and pink stripe is a really fun way to freshen up a winter wardrobe. It runs a little big; I’m in the size small here, and it’s plenty roomy.

VERDICT: In looking back at pictures, I really like the look of this one, but I did not bring it home with me. The fabric isn’t very soft, and I just couldn’t get excited about adding it to my closet, but some of you might like it.

Jessie Off Shoulder Pullover in Fushia

at Evereve (S) // Mother Weekender Layover (29) // similar boots (8)

DETAILS: Designed with an off-shoulder neckline, the Jessie sweater by EVEREVE will add instant style to your seasonal wardrobe. This soft pullover features a relaxed silhouette with dropped shoulders, ribbed trim, and reverse seam detailing. — EVEREVE

• Neckline: Off Shoulder
• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 22 1/2″
• Material: 70% Acrylic, 27% Nylon, 3% Spandex Knit
• Care: Hand Wash, Wash Cold, Hang To Dry

This top is really cute; I probably should have played around with it a bit more, zhuzhed the sleeves, etc. I didn’t realize it’s supposed to be worn off the shoulder, but I probably wouldn’t ever do that, and you don’t have to. It stays on just fine, although I would probably have to futz with my bra strap to keep them from showing, or wear a bra with cute straps… not sure I have one!

Any-who. It’s very bold and bright—too bright, I think, for my understated style sensibilities, but I’m sure it will appeal to someone out there!

VERDICT: I did not purchase this, but it’s really fun. Someone definitely should!

GOLA Torpedo Sneakers in Silver/Off White

at Anthropologie (8.5) // MOTHER Dazzler (29)

DETAILS: Ready…set…GOLA! Born and bred in England, the best-in-game brand leads with vintage designs and timeless flair. From the almond shape of the toe to the integrated gum-toe bumper, these sporty and retro low-profile sneakers are an ode to the ’80s. — Anthropologie

• Leather upper
• Textile insole
• Rubber gum sole with toothed tread

I first saw these silver GOLA Torpedo Sneakers at Evereve, and I decided to try to find them somewhere that doesn’t charge shipping for shoes. This similar pair at Anthro has the off-white gum sole as opposed to the more traditional yellow, and I think I like it better. Silver shoes are trending, so I figured I’d give them a try, and I actually like these a lot. And guess what? They have a high enough profile to work with my bootcut jeans!

VERDICT: Keeping these! I think they’re really fun.

Retro Brand Black Label Paris Sweatshirt

at Evereve (S) // MOTHER Weekender (29) // Gola Torpedo (8.5)

DETAILS: Stay cozy in the Paris Sweatshirt from Retro Brand Black Label, featuring a crew neckline, an oversized fit, and bold letting across the front. Pair with cargo pants and sneakers for a comfortable but trendy look. — EVEREVE

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 27 1/2″
• 100% Cotton Terry
• Machine Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low

This is just me, still trying to find some fun sweatshirts to add to my winter closet! I dunno, this one is fine, but it just doesn’t seem worth the price to me. I’m not crazy about the longer length, although it can be placed where you want it, due to the banded hem.

VERDICT: I’m probably sending this back… I haven’t decided yet.

Retro Brand Black Label New York Reverse Slub Sweatshirt

at Evereve (S) // MOTHER The Dazzler (29) // Gola Torpedo (8.5)

DETAILS: A casual-chic staple, the New York Reverse Slub Sweatshirt by Retro Brand Black Label features a relaxed crewneck silhouette, raglan sleeves, and comfy cotton terry fabric. — EVEREVE

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 27 1/2″
• 100% Cotton Terry Knit
• Machine Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low

And the same with this. It’s cute, but it doesn’t wow me. And neither of these are very soft inside.

VERDICT: Probably will send this back, too.

MOTHER The Mid Rise Dazzler Flood in Not Today Satan

at Nordstrom (29) // at Mother.com (29) // Vince Donegal Cashmere Cardigan (S) // similar loafers

DETAILS: Maybe tomorrow. A mid-rise straight leg with a 28.25-inch inseam and a clean hem. Cut from stretch denim, Not Today Satan is a washed black with whiskering, fading and tonal hardware. — MOTHER Denim

• 9 3/4″ Rise; 28 1/4″ Inseam; 13″ Leg Opening
• 78% Cotton 16% Modal 4% Polyester 2% Elastane
• Machine wash, tumble dry
• Made in Los Angeles

When I saw my favorite MOTHER Dazzler in this faded black wash, I knew I had to try them. It is such a good wash, and of course, I love the fit because they’re The Dazzler. Sadly, they run small, so I will need to send these back and get the size 30 to try.

The only thing is, I’m not sure I really need them, since I have a very similar wash and style in the AG Mari… I threw those on to compare, and they’re just a smidge longer. I also prefer the higher rise of the Mari. (I don’t care what the website measurements say, the rise is higher than 9 3/4″.)

MOTHER The Mid Rise Dazzler Flood (29) // AG Mari Slim Straight Ankle Jeans in City View (29) (similar here)

VERDICT: I’m undecided. If I get the size 30, they will probably be a smidge longer, and thus, too similar to the AG Mari to warrant keeping them.

Gap Factory Mid Rise Baby Boot Jeans

at Gap Factory (29) // Gap Factory Roll Neck Sweater (S) // Jeffrey Campbell Ichabod (8.5)

DETAILS:

• Inseam: 32″
• 87% Cotton, 6% Polyester, 5% Cotton, 2% Elastane.
• Machine wash cold. Tumble dry low.

If you’re looking for a modest bootcut jean, these are very flattering. They almost read as a straight leg to me. They do run small; this is the 29, and I had to re-order in the size 30.

VERDICT: I’m actually shooting a look with these today!

Gap Factory High Rise Universal Legging Jeans in Dark Wash

at Gap Factory (29) // Schutz Arissa (8) // fair isle sweater (this color way sold out)

DETAILS:

• High waisted.
• Super skinny through the hip and thigh.
• Super skinny leg opening.
• Inseam: 28″
• 86% Cotton Conventional, 7% Polyester Conventional, 5% Cotton Recycled, 2% Elastane.
• Machine wash cold. Tumble dry low.

These are the jeans that caused all the ruckus! Yes, I ordered a pair of super skinny legging ankle jeans to try. I noticed them in the New Arrivals section at Gap Factory, and that piqued my curiosity… How would I feel about this style after all this time? I used to adore my AG Legging Ankle Jeans with the heat of a thousand suns.

Let’s just say…I’m not feeling it. It doesn’t help that I’ve gained about 10 pounds since I last wore this style (and stopped running), but even beyond fit, they just feel super dated to me. Maybe they’d look fresh styled with knee boots and a long wool coat, but I’m not ready to give them another chance just yet.

VERDICT: Going back!

Also, just because I saw these jeans in the New Arrivals section doesn’t mean they’re suddenly trending again. Gap Factory tends to stock a mix of styles to cater to a wide audience, including pieces that aren’t necessarily “on the cutting edge” of current trends. That said, they do carry plenty of modern styles alongside older ones—it’s just not a store I rely on to gauge what’s trending for everyday women in mainstream fashion.

When I’m looking to get a sense of what’s current for us, I tend to look at stores like Evereve, J.Crew, Anthro, and even LOFT. These retailers tend to reflect what’s of-the-moment for modern, everyday fashion without venturing too far into ultra-trendy territory.

Okay, that’s all I’ve got for today. I need to get a move on here. I’ve got a ton of outfits I want to shoot with Alison this morning. I hope you have a great day!