This Week’s Try-On Haul: Everyday Pieces for Late Summer & Early Fall | Jo-Lynne Shane

Denim & Pants for the Transition Season

First up: a few new jeans and pants I’ve ordered lately… not that I need any more in my life! But I’m always keeping an eye out for new styles, and these are a few that caught my attention and seemed worth a try.

MOTHER The Insider Flood in Over The Top

at MOTHER (31) // Vince Cowl Neck Top (S) // PAIGE Wren Slingback Pump (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: More is more. This high-rise bootcut jean has a 28.25-inch inseam and a clean hem. Over The Top is a mid-blue wash with whiskering and fading at the knees.

• Measurements: 10″ Rise, 28 1/4″ Inseam, 15 3/4″ Leg Opening
• Material: 49% Cotton, 21% Pre Consumer Rec Cotton, 11% Lyocell, 2% Elastane, 17% Post Cons Rec Poly
• Care: Machine Wash, Tumble Dry

MY THOUGHTS: I’ve been trying to make these jeans happen for weeks now. I really love the wash, the silhouette, and the overall fit, but the sizing is really off. That sometimes happens with MOTHER denim, and I’m guessing it’s part of the reason these have been on sale for so long and are still fully stocked.

This pair has a similar silhouette to the grey MOTHER Outsider Flood from the Nordstrom Sale. It’s an ankle-length slim bootcut, which I really like as a subtle update to my beloved MOTHER Dazzler Ankle Fray. (I haven’t been reaching for those at all lately… which is a telltale sign they’re starting to feel tired.)

The slim bootcut has the same snug fit through the hips and thighs, but the slightly wider leg opening (15 3/4″–16 1/2″) feels a little fresher and leans more bootcut than skinny. (For comparison, the Dazzler has a 13″ leg opening.)

The issue is with the sizing. I started with my usual 29, but it was way too snug, so I re-ordered the 30, and it didn’t look or feel any different. What I’m wearing here is the 31, and even these still feel pretty tight through the waist and thighs. I’m planning to wear them around the house a bit to see if they’ll relax in the right spots before I decide if they’re a keeper.

That said, I really like how they look, and they seem to be pretty versatile as far as shoe pairings go. I started out styling them with the cowl neck top and slingback pumps, and then I tried them with ankle boots and a sweater to see how they’ll transition to fall.

I also tested them with a chunkier Chelsea boot and my favorite cashmere sweater, with my upcoming Iceland/Scotland/London trip in mind. I’ll need jeans that work with a variety of tops and footwear, and I’m hoping these might make the cut.

VERDICT: Keeping the tags on for now, but I’m optimistic. I just need to give them a good wear test to see how they break in. I can’t imagine I’d need the 32, but you never know…

Citizens of Humanity Genova Low Slung Bootcut Jeans in Claro

at Citizens, Bloomingdale’s & EVEREVE (29) // Jenni Kayne Flynn (S) // Bloondo Marcie (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: The Genova is a low-rise bootcut silhouette designed to elongate and flatter. Crafted from Japanese comfort stretch denim with a soft, broken-in hand, it offers structure with subtle flexibility. The Clairo wash—a medium indigo with gentle fading and whiskering—adds a timeless, lived-in finish. The versatile full-length leg pairs effortlessly with any kind of shoe—from boots to sneakers to heels.

• 9 7/8″ Rise, 31 3/4″ Inseam, 18 1/2″ Leg Opening
• 98% Cotton, 2% Polyurethane Denim
• Machine wash cold inside out with like colors. Do not bleach. Tumble dry low.

MY THOUGHTS: I ordered these after spotting them on the EVEREVE website, thinking they might be a good way to ease into the more relaxed straight-leg silhouette. I always struggle with this one—I like it on other women, but it tends to feel a little schlumpy on me.

They have a mid-rise and are too long to wear with sneakers, so I tried them with the Blondo Marcie booties that have a 2″ heel, and even then, they’re still a bit too long. The comfort-stretch fabric is really soft and wearable, and I like the subtly faded light wash for casual looks. I’m just not sure they’re all that flattering on me, and they do a weird thing in the crotch area that I can’t unsee.

The rear view isn’t bad, although the pockets sit pretty low. There’s something about them I kind of like, so I kept taking photos from different angles, trying to decide if it’s just a matter of getting used to them or if they’re a total no-go.

VERDICT: I’m on the fence with these. I actually wonder if I should try a size down, but they’d probably be too snug in the waist, and I think they’re supposed to have a slightly slouchy fit like this. I also hate being limited to a 3″ heel, but hemming feels like a big commitment. For now, I’ll try them with a few more outfits and see how I feel.

FIT TIP: I’m wearing the 29, and they’re plenty roomy, so definitely size down if in between.

Joe’s Jeans The Addison Low Rise Cotton Blend Ankle Wide Leg Pants

at Nordstrom (8) // cloth & stone Square Neck Tank (S) // Sam Edelman Bambi Raffia Buckle Slide sandals (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: A tonal tape drawstring highlights the waist of these ankle-grazing trouser-jeans made from a breezy cotton blend.

• Measurements: 27″ inseam; 25″ leg opening; 9 1/2″ front rise
• Material: 70% cotton, 30% rayon
• Care: Machine wash, tumble dry

MY THOUGHTS: I was hoping these pants could be a fun late summer addition to my wardrobe and give me a little pop of color. I also ordered them in white, but I didn’t even try those on because the brown pair were already too tight. I probably should have ordered two sizes to compare, but in my experience, Joe’s tends to run big, so I thought the 29 would be fine.

They’re cute pants, but they definitely have a voluminous fit—especially if I had sized up to the correct size.

VERDICT: I sent these back and didn’t order any other sizes. I think I’m set with pants for summer, but if you need a pair, they’re definitely worth a try!

Early Fall Fashion Finds at Gap Factory

Gap Factory recently dropped some early fall styles, so I ordered a few pieces to try. They’re also running a Summer-to-Fall Sale, with 40–70% off sitewide, so it’s a great time to browse if you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe for the season ahead or need a few more items to get you through the rest of summer.

Gap Factory CashSoft Relaxed Crewneck Sweater in Deep Rouge Heather

at Gap Factory (S) // GF High Rise ’90s Original Straight Jeans (29) // Blondo Cammie (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Plush like cashmere. Easier than anything. With a lightweight layer-able feel & brushed for softness.

• Ribbed crewneck
• Ribbed hem
• Straight, relaxed fit
• Hits below the hip
• 53% Cotton, 47% Nylon
• Machine wash

MY THOUGHTS: I know it’ll be a while before we’re wearing long sleeve sweaters, but this one caught my eye. I love the wide ribbed hem and cuffs, and the crewneck has a really nice shape. It frames the face well and doesn’t sit too high on the neck.

It has a relaxed fit and the length is perfect for leaving untucked. It also comes in four great colors for fall. I especially love this Deep Rouge Heather. The fabric is soft and cozy too. My only caveat is the drop shoulder. It’s a bit distracting to me, and I think it would look so much nicer with a raglan or traditional set-in sleeve.

VERDICT: I like this one, and the price is great. I’m not sure I’ll keep it, since good sweaters are usually plentiful once the weather cools down, and I’ll probably find one that checks all the boxes, but if the drop shoulder doesn’t bother you, it’s definitely worth a try.

FIT TIP: The small fits me perfectly in this sweater, so I’d say it’s true to size, or size down if in between.

Gap Factory Relaxed Boatneck Sweater in Deep Brown

at Gap Factory (S) // GF High Rise Soft Vintage Slim Jeans (29) // Steve Madden Dorothea Bootie (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS:

• Ribbed boatneck
• Ribbed hem
• Straight, relaxed fit
• Hits below the hip
• 55% Cotton, 40% Nylon, 5% Recycled Polyester
• Machine wash

MY THOUGHTS: Now this one checks all the boxes! I also like that it’s lightweight enough to start wearing sooner than the CashSoft Crewneck. I love the boatneck and the boxy fit with the split hem, and the length is just right.

It comes in several solid colors, but I’m especially drawn to the stripe options. The Breton-style stripes with the wider solid band across the top, cuffs, and hem give it a polished look without being fussy. I chose the brown because, well, you all know how much I’m loving brown right now, and this is such a great shade. Plus, you really can’t beat the price.

VERDICT: Definitely a keeper! For fit reference, this is the small, so it is also true to size, or size down if in between.

Gap Factory Relaxed Canvas Barn Jacket in New Riverbed Brown

at Gap Factory (S) // GF Relaxed Boatneck Sweater (S) // GF High Rise Soft Vintage Slim Jeans (29) // Steve Madden Dorothea Bootie (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS:

• Smooth canvas weave with corduroy collar
• Snap at spread collar, zip front
• Utility pockets at front
• Straight, relaxed fit
• Hits below the hip
• 100% Cotton
• Machine wash

MY THOUGHTS: Barn jackets are trending again this season, and I never found one I loved last year, so I was eager to try this one, and I’m super impressed! It has that perfect classic fit, and I really like this warm shade of brown with the contrasting chocolate corduroy collar.

The fit is easy and comfortable, great for throwing on over a sweater, and you just can’t beat the price. It’s unlined, but that doesn’t bother me, and I’m sure it helps keep the cost down. Overall, it’s a great lightweight layer for the upcoming fall season.

VERDICT: Keeping this one for sure. Fit-wise, the small is plenty roomy, so definitely size down if in between.

Gap Factory Stripe Jersey Mini Dress in Brown Stripe

at Gap Factory (M) // Kaanas sandals (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS:

• Straight silhouette with an easy fit
• Hits above the knee
• 100% Cotton
• Machine wash

MY THOUGHTS: Moving back to more seasonal pieces, I have this sleeveless stripe jersey mini dress in the Pink/Red Stripe and like it a lot, so I thought I’d try the Brown Stripe for the transition season. It often stays hot here in Philly well into September (and sometimes beyond), and while I might not wear the Pink/Red at that point, I’d definitely wear the Brown Stripe. I was also inspired by how they styled it with the chocolate brown sweater draped over the shoulders.

I went searching for a chocolate brown pullover or button-up cardigan to wear with it, but I didn’t find one at Gap Factory, so I tried it with the striped boatneck sweater instead. I actually like the mixed-stripe combo. It works because the base of the dress is white, and the base of the sweater is brown, so it feels intentional rather than clashing.

VERDICT: Definitely keeping this dress. I think it’ll come in handy over the next few weeks (and maybe months, depending on how our weather goes).

Gap Factory Relaxed Shaker-Stitch Open-Front Cardigan in Dark Brown

at Gap Factory (S) // GF Favorite V-Neck T-Shirt (S) // GF High Rise Soft Vintage Slim Jeans (29) // Steve Madden Dorothea Bootie (8.5)

PRODUCT DETAILS:

• Long sleeves with ribbed cuffs
• Patch pockets at open front
• Ribbed hem
• Straight, relaxed fit
• Hits below the hip
• 55% Cotton, 40% Nylon, 5% Recycled Polyester
• Machine wash

MY THOUGHTS: Mid-length open cardigans like this aren’t exactly on-trend at the moment, but this one appealed to me because of the lightweight ribbed texture and the drapey patch pockets. It has a nice, easy fit, and the brown color gives it a subtle update, so I figured it was worth a try.

I first styled it with a white tee, light wash straight-leg jeans, and brown boots for a simple fall look. It’s fine, but just okay to me. I think I’d like it better layered over a striped tee or maybe even an animal print for more visual interest.

Then it occurred to me that the color works really well with the striped dress I just tried, so I pulled that back on and added the cardigan over top.

The outfit doesn’t necessarily feel current, but it does look good together. I actually kind of like it. If you work in a more conservative office, or you’re a teacher, this could be a really easy, pulled-together outfit for early fall. (Once we get into September, I’d probably swap the gold sandals for a brown suede sneaker.)

VERDICT: I wasn’t planning to keep this cardigan, but it might be a nice piece to have as a travel companion this fall. I’m going to think on that before deciding whether to return it.

Gap Factory Crewneck T-shirt Dress in Carbuerator Navy

at Gap Factory (S) // Birkenstock Madrid (39)

PRODUCT DETAILS:

• Straight silhouette with an easy fit
• Slub jersey knit
• Cap sleeves
• 100% Cotton
• Machine wash

MY THOUGHTS: This is the muscle tee dress I ordered to compare with my EVEREVE Nora Muscle Dress. It’s a cute dress, but unfortunately, it’s not nearly as flattering as the Nora.

That said, I do like the slub jersey knit, and I appreciate that it’s 100% cotton. The fit is straighter than I prefer, and the sleeve design adds more volume in the shoulder area than I’d like.

VERDICT: I’ll be returning this one, but if you have narrower shoulders or don’t need as much structure through the middle, it could be a nice option for you.

EVEREVE Emma Denim Dress

at EVEREVE (M) // Loeffler Randall Dana Strappy Jelly Sandals (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Finished in a medium blue wash, this stylish denim shift dress by EVEREVE features a sleeveless silhouette with a round neckline, front button closures, and two front pockets.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 35″
• Material: 99% Cotton, 1% Spandex Denim
• Care: Machine Wash, Wash Cold, Dry Flat

MY THOUGHTS: I had high hopes for this denim dress. I really like the sleeveless style, the classic cut, and the just-above-the-knee length. The wash is nice, and the brushed gold buttons add a polished touch.

But it’s a shift dress silhouette, which is just too straight for my shape, and the buttons were pulling across the bust, which is always a dealbreaker. It also felt a little stiff, and I wasn’t comfortable in it.

VERDICT: This one is going back. If you decide to try it, I recommend sizing up. The medium just barely fit.

cloth and stone Flap Pocket Zipper Shacket

at EVEREVE (S) // Z Supply Long Weekends tank (M) // Schutz Arissa Woven Ballet flats (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Crafted in a woven chambray, this easy shacket by Cloth & Stone features oversized chest pockets, a front zipper closure, and a slightly cropped silhouette.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 21 1/2″
• Material: 100% Lyocell Chambray
• Care: Machine Wash,Wash Cold,Tumble Dry Low,Do Not Bleach

MY THOUGHTS: I was super excited to see this jacket pop up on the EVEREVE website because I’ve been wanting to add an updated denim jacket to my closet, and this one is perfect!

For one thing, the fabric is actually chambray, not denim, so it’s incredibly soft and drapes beautifully. The deep blue wash is super versatile, and the zipper front gives it a modern twist without losing the classic silhouette. It doesn’t have that traditional trucker jacket look that’s starting to feel a little tired, but it still has the same flattering, easy-to-style shape. I also think it has a slightly more polished vibe overall.

VERDICT: Keeping this one, for sure!

Varley Atrium High Rise Short

at EVEREVE (S) // Varley Shea Crop Tank (S) // Loeffler Randall sandals (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Stay comfortable all weekend long in the Atrium Short from Varley, featuring a high-rise fit, an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring, and two side seam pockets. 

• Measurements: 13″ Front Rise, 4 1/2″ Inseam, 13 3/4″ Leg Opening
• Material: 72% Viscose, 23% Polyester, 5% Elastane Jersey
• Care: Machine Wash, Wash Cold, Dry Flat

MY THOUGHTS: Everyone’s always raving about Varley, so I decided to try a few pieces while I was in the store yesterday. The athleisure vibe isn’t one that usually draws me in, although I think it looks great on other women, so I thought this set might be fun to have for travel or casual work-from-home days, but it just falls a little flat for me.

I can’t quite pinpoint why, because it is cute, and the fabric and details definitely feel elevated—but I always feel kind of dumpy in sweat shorts. And unfortunately, the rear view sealed the deal… in the worst way. Let’s just say I won’t be posting a photo. I do not need that visual living on the internet forever.

At the risk of oversharing, I feel the need to tell you that I was wearing the full-coverage underwear I usually wear under leggings for NVP (no visible panty lines), but for some reason, they looked awful with these shorts. You could see every little imperfection. Maybe a darker color would be more forgiving, but I think I have a bit of fashion PTSD from this experience, and I doubt I’ll be trying them again.

VERDICT: Needless to say, I did not bring these home!

Varley Shea Crop Tank

at EVEREVE (S) // Varley Atrium Shorts (M)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Finished with side zipper details and pointelle knit trim, the Shea tank top by Varley features a cropped silhouette in their signature DoubleSoft® knit fabric—making it a summer staple that’s as comfortable as it is chic.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 19.7″
• Material: 81% Viscose, 15% Polyester, 4% Elastane Knit
• Care: Machine Wash, Dry Flat, Do Not Tumble Dry

MY THOUGHTS: This top is the better of the two I tried, but without the matching shorts, I don’t see myself wearing it. That said, I do really like the details and the boxy, cropped fit.

VERDICT: I did not buy this one either.

Varley Otis Sleeveless Sweat

at EVEREVE (S) // Varley Atrium Shorts (M)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Elevate your laidback look with the Otis Sleeveless Sweatshirt by Varley. Crafted in their signature DoubleSoft® knit fabric, this comfy-chic sweatshirt features a relaxed crewneck silhouette, pleated shoulder detail, and adjustable drawstring hem.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 23 1/2″
• Material: 72% Viscose, 23% Polyester, 5% Elastane Knit
• Care: Machine Wash, Dry Flat, Do Not Tumble Dry

MY THOUGHTS: This top is a little longer and didn’t really work with the shorts until I gave it a front tuck. It’s a cute top, though. I just don’t see myself wearing it with jeans, and as we’ve already confirmed, I don’t usually wear sweatpants as streetwear.

VERDICT: This one stayed at the store, as well.

STYLING NOTE: This may be obvious, but if not… These were the shoes I wore to the store, but I would wear sneakers or a more casual flip flop with these Varley looks.

Z Supply Prado Stripe Sweater

at EVEREVE (S) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Loeffler Randall sandals (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Look chic this season in the Prado Stripe Sweater by Z Supply. Finished in a semi-sheer rayon knit, this easy-to-love pullover features a relaxed, cropped silhouette with dropped shoulders and rolled edges at the collar, cuffs, and hem.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 19 1/2″
• Material: 100% Rayon Knit
• Care: Hand Wash, Dry Flat

MY THOUGHTS: The sales associate I was working with pulled this for me, and I thought it was such a fun lightweight sweater for late summer—and it’s on sale! It has a really pretty pattern and color combo, and I like the rolled edges for a relaxed vibe.

That said, I just can’t get past the drop shoulder. On a stripe pattern, it feels even more exaggerated and creates some odd lines. It’s a shame, because if the seams were placed on the shoulders, I definitely would’ve brought this one home with me.

VERDICT: I did not bring this home with me.

MOTHER Patch Pocket Weekender in Wacky Khaki

at EVEREVE (30) // Z Supply Prado Stripe Sweater (S) // Loeffler Randall sandals (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: This cult-favorite flare has a mid rise, patch pockets, a 31-inch inseam and a clean hem. Cut from stretch cotton, Wacky Khaki is a sandy off-white with tonal hardware.

• 9 3/4″ Rise; 31″ Inseam; 20″ Leg Opening
• 94% Cotton 4% Polyester 2% Elastane
• Made in the USA

MY THOUGHTS: When I spotted my favorite jeans in this modern khaki color with patch pockets, I had to try them. I grabbed the size 30, knowing I often need to size up in lighter colors, but they’re still verrrry snug through the thighs. They also have a more dramatic flare than I expected, even though the 20″ leg opening that’s listed is the same as all of the Weekenders.

And for some reason, this light khaki shade was way less forgiving on me than the white pair I already own and love. I could’ve tried the 31, but honestly, I didn’t like them enough to bother.

VERDICT: I left these in the store as well, but I still like them in theory, so I wanted to share in case they appeal to one of you.

And that’s a wrap for this week’s Try-On Haul! I hope you found a few new ideas—whether for styling pieces you already have in your closet or maybe even a new piece or two to add to your transition wardrobe.