Spring Try-On Catch-Up: Vacation Picks & Everyday Pieces | Jo-Lynne Shane

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.

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.

J.Crew Alpaca-blend oversized sweater T-shirt in Black

at J.Crew (size M) // MOTHER Dazzler Flood Fray (29) // Vionic Klara (8)

DETAILS: This oversized style is crafted in an alpaca-blend yarn that’s woven a bit looser for an airy, subtly sheer finish. Dressed up or down, it’s one of our favorite layering pieces this spring.

• Relaxed fit.
• Body length: 21 1/4″.
• Sleeve length: 17″.
• Hits at hip.
• 50% polyamide/35% alpaca/15% wool.
• Hand wash.

I may have gone a little overboard ordering neutral short-sleeve sweaters… This is another one I picked up while thinking ahead to my England trip (which is now less than a month away!) I liked the idea of a basic black short-sleeve sweater, but this one felt a little too plain, and I don’t care for the longer short sleeves and super relaxed fit. Plus, alpaca content makes it pricier, while also not as soft as some of the others I’ve tried.

VERDICT: I sent this one back.

P.S. These MOTHER jeans are on sale! I love this pair for a mid-wash straight ankle fit. (I’m linking to the same pair, though they look lighter online for some reason.)

Gap Factory Open-Stitch Collared Sweater Tank 

at Gap Factory (M) // High Rise Soft Vintage Slim Jeans (29) // Sam Edelman Bambi (8)

DETAILS:

• Straight, easy fit.
• Hits at the hip.
• Soft cotton knit.
• Spread collar, V-neck.
• Ribbed hem.
• Fabric: 100% Cotton Conventional.
• Care: Machine wash.

This ribbed sweater tank is right on trend with the textured knit, collared neckline, and split detail. It’s a nice way to elevate a basic jeans outfit. It runs a little small—this is a medium, and it just fits.

VERDICT: I decided to keep this one, but I didn’t end up bringing it to Florida, and it’s still pretty chilly here in Philly, so I haven’t had a chance to wear it yet.

ATM School Boy Stripe Tee

at Shopbop (M) // Citizens Palma; also at Nordstrom & Bloomies (29) // P448 Monza (39)

DETAILS: A waist length ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo tee with a relaxed fit, detailed with a chic and classic stripe motif.

• Crew neck and short sleeves
• Striped pattern
• Fabric: Lightweight jersey
• Shell: 100% cotton
• Wash cold

I discovered this tee (and the jeans) during a Shopbop sale. I was on the hunt for some striped layering tees and decided to try this one because I’ve loved some ATM tees in the past. The fabric and construction are excellent, and the boxy shape is very on trend, but it feels a little too masculine on me, especially in the stripes.

VERDICT: I sent this one back.

Frank & Eileen Silvio Untuckable Button-Up Shirt

at Frank & Eileen (S) // Derry Pull-On jeans // Vionic Klara (8)

DETAILS: Silvio fuses modern Italian tailoring with California cool. The unique, fashion-forward detailing—an exaggerated back pleat, oversized envelope pocket, and petite square fit—means all the styling is done for you.

• Curved shirttail hem
• Shaped like a petite square with center back pleat
• Oversized envelope pocket
• Signature bust flattering button placement and long sleeves with button cuffs
• Superluxe, 100% Italian Cotton
• Turn this garment inside out, machine wash on cold, and tumble dry on low. Iron or press to maintain crisp fabric.

Since I’ve been loving the shorter button-ups lately, I ordered this Frank & Eileen version in plain white, thinking it might be a good closet basic. (It definitely needs a good steam, sorry about that!) The quality is great, and I do appreciate Frank & Eileen’s bust-friendly button placement—but I just didn’t love it on me.

VERDICT: This one also went back.

Athleta Endless High Rise Pant

at Athletha (6) // Athleta Essential Tee (S) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS: Refined, subtly textured, and perfectly stretchy pants that are perfect for commuting, work, and travel.

• Semi-fitted, skims easily over the body
• Sits at the natural waist
• Straight leg fits slim through the leg then eases up below the knee
• Inseam: Regular 27 1/2″, Petite 25 1/2″, Tall 30 1/2″
• 86% Recycled Polyester/14% Spandex
• Machine wash and line dry.

If you’re thinking these look familiar—you’re right! I originally ordered the size 8 in these popular travel pants but ended up exchanging them for a 6. The smaller size definitely fits better. They’re a bit snug in the waist, but not uncomfortably so, and I like that they’re less baggy through the legs.

That said, there’s something about the length and silhouette that just doesn’t work for me. I don’t see myself reaching for them unless I’m flying, and if I’m buying black pants for travel, I want them to work for sightseeing too. Bottom line: I just don’t feel like me in these.

VERDICT: As you may already know, I did end up finding the perfect travel pants for me, so I returned these. Keep reading!

Athleta Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pant in Black

at Athleta (6) // Essential Slub Tee (M) // FRANKIE4 Riley (8.5)

DETAILS: Our stretch fabric pants with a rib knit waistband and easy-access pockets are perfect for everything from your workday commute to weekend travels.

• Semi-fitted, skims easily over the body with a mid-rise waistband
• Mid rise, sits below the natural waist
• Fits slim through the leg and eases up below the calf
• Order your usual size for a close-to-body fit, or size up for a slightly relaxed fit
• Inseam: Regular/Plus: 27.5″ Petite: 25.5″ Tall: 30.5″
• 86% Recycled Polyester/14% Elastane
• Machine wash and dry.

This is the other pair of ankle-length travel pants from Athleta I was considering, also in a smaller size. They have a sportier vibe, with the split hem and contrasting side panels, and I do like the slightly lower rise. But once again, I just don’t love the silhouette on me—it’s not the most flattering, and I don’t see myself reaching for them.

VERDICT: These also went back, but a lot of ladies love them, and they’re currently on sale if you’re interested in trying them!

Athleta Brooklyn Heights High Rise Cargo Pant in Aspen Olive

at Athleta (6) // Athleta Getaway Tank (M) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS:

• Relaxed with room to move
• High rise, sits at the natural waist
• Straight leg fits slim through the leg then eases up below the knee
• Inseam: Regular: 30.5″ Petite: 28.5″ Tall: 33.5″ Plus: 29.5″
• 86% Recycled Polyester/14% Spandex
• Machine wash and dry.

When I spotted this full-length version of the Brooklyn pants, it was love at first sight. They’re made from the same amazingly lightweight, breathable fabric—but I feel so much more like me in this pair. The fit is super flattering, and they’re easy to style with both boxy and fitted tees or tanks. Plus, they’re incredibly comfortable.

Fit tip: They do run a bit big, like the others, so you may want to size down if you’re in between. They’re also on sale right now, so I grabbed a second pair in black!

VERDICT: Totally love these! I wore them almost daily in Florida—and they were perfect for the plane too.

Athleta Getaway Linen Blend Muscle Tank

at Athleta (M) // Brooklyn Cargo Pants (6) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS: Breezy linen meets flowy TENCEL™ in this easy-to-live-in blend, this sleeveless cropped top skims easily over the body.

• Body length: 21 5/8”
• 55% Linen/45% TENCEL™ Modal
• Machine wash cold and tumble dry on low.

I ordered several of Athleta’s tees and tanks to pair with whatever travel pants I ended up keeping—and this one is winner winner chicken dinner! I love the short, boxy fit, and the linen/modal fabric is lightweight and breathable—perfect for hot weather. Fit Tip: I sized up to the medium in this one. It also layers easily under my Pranayama Wrap or a denim jacket, which makes it super versatile.

VERDICT: Kept it, wore it!

Athleta Essential Tee in Fog Grey Heather

at Athleta (S) // Endless Pant (6) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS: Perfect for workday commutes and weekend travels, the always-soft SUPIMA® stretch cotton is tee is lightweight and durable with bounce-back resilience.

• Body length: Petite 21 5/8″, Regular 22 5/8″, Tall 23 5/8″, Plus/2X 25 1/4″
• 90% SUPIMA® Cotton/10% Spandex
• Machine wash cold and tumble dry on low.

This is another top I’d heard good things about and ordered to wear with travel pants for super casual days. I like the fit and the seam detail down the back, but I wasn’t a fan of the fabric—it felt a little stiffer than I’d like.

VERDICT: I didn’t keep this one.

Athleta Essential Slub Tee in Bright White Slub

at Athleta (M) // Endless High Rise Pant (6) // FRANKIE4 Riley (8.5)

DETAILS: This everyday essential tee made of lightweight, breathable fabric is perfect for travel, vacation, or exploring your town or city!

• Semi-fitted, skims easily over the body
• High hip, sits at the high hip
• Crew neck
• 100% Cotton
• Machine wash and dry.

This is the same top in a 100% cotton slub fabric, which has more of that linen look I like—but it’s very sheer.

VERDICT: I’m undecided on this one. I also ordered the v-neck, which I did not photograph, but I like that one better, I think.

Z Supply Elin Stripe Rib Tank in Stripe Black

at Z Supply (M) // Brooklyn Cargo Pants (6) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS: Classic with a twist, this fitted rib tank features a timeless yarn-dyed stripe and a flattering scoop neckline. Made from a comfy cotton-modal blend, it’s bra-friendly, versatile, and perfect for layering or wearing solo.

• Cotton Modal Rib: 50% Cotton, 49% Modal, 1% Spandex
• Length from Shoulder: 22 1/2″
• Machine Wash Cold, Gentle Cycle, Hang to Dry

As you probably already know, I love this tank! I wore it traveling to and from Florida with the Brooklyn cargo pants (as pictured here), and also paired it with my favorite white shorts while we were there. It has such a flattering fit, and I really like the shorter length—it looks great without needing to be tucked.

VERDICT: Kept it, love it!

FRANKIE4 Riley in White/Leopard

at FRANKIE4 (8.5) // Athleta Brooklyn (6)

DETAILS: Take your sneaker collection to the next level with Riley in striking White/Leopard. A statement platform sole defines Riley—exaggerated yet sleek design made for high rotation wear. Riley features lightweight construction, an innovative support and cushion system, and laces made from recycled cotton. An elastic gusset enables them to be worn with or without laces. A luxe leather finish and eye-catching accents elevate this essential platform sneaker style.

• Triple layer support & cushion system crafted to help prevent and alleviate common foot pain symptoms.
• Podiatrist-designed dual-density moulded sneaker soles, free of steel shanks and heavy materials.
• Slip-resistant sole that meets and/or exceeds the slip resistance test
• Elastic gusset: wear with or without laces

I first heard about these FRANKIE4 sneakers in a travel group, and when I saw they were podiatrist-designed with adjustable heel, arch, and forefoot support, I had to give them a try! I especially love this colorway—the black and metallic side stripe with the animal print tab on the back is such a fun combo.

Style tip: When I wear black pants or jeans with white sneakers, I like when there are black accents to tie the look together. Plain white sneakers can feel a little stark—especially now, when colorful and detailed sneakers are more current.

Unfortunately, I didn’t love how these felt on. They run large, felt a bit heavy and stiff, and slipped off my heel when walking. That said, I like the concept and the supportive design, so I’ve ordered a few lower-profile styles from FRANKIE4 to try instead.

VERDICT: Returned these, but I’m still hopeful about the brand—stay tuned!

PAIGE Nellie Cropped Jeans in Crisp White

at Bloomingdale’s and Anthro (30) // Sanctuary tee (M) // Veronica Beard slides (8)

DETAILS: Born and raised in Los Angeles, lifestyle brand PAIGE has crafted timeless wardrobe staples since 2004. Meticulously constructed, each wear-tested piece displays a dedication to the smallest details. Designed to be lived in season after season – and kept forever.

• High rise: 10.75″
• Cropped inseam: 26.5″
• Leg opening: 19.5″
• 92% cotton/6% elastomultiester/2% elastane
• Machine wash

This pair of jeans isn’t new to me, but my old size 29s were starting to feel snug, so I grabbed the 30 when they went on sale at Bloomingdale’s. (They’re currently part of Bloomies’ TAKE UP TO 30% OFF promo.) I like the fabric composition—these almost read more like pants than jeans, which gives them a more elevated look and feel. The crop wide-leg fit isn’t too voluminous, and I think they’re fairly flattering for this style.

The 30 is definitely more comfortable than my 29s, so I’m tempted to keep them—but I’m holding off for now and keeping the tags on. Bloomies has a generous 6-month return policy, so I have some time to decide.

VERDICT: On the fence, but leaning toward keep. We’ll see if I reach for them!

Sanctuary Perfect Remix Tee in Black

at Bloomingdale’s, Amazon & Sanctuary (M) // PAIGE Nellie (30) // Veronica Beard Via (8)

DETAILS: Give your everyday T-shirt style a boost in the cozy Sanctuary™ Perfect Tee Remix.

• Front Length: 24″
• Short sleeves with rolled cuffs
• 51% Cotton 49% Rayon
• Jersey Slub Knit
• Machine Wash Cold, Lay Flat to Dry

Sanctuary has so many great “beyond basic” tees this season. By that I mean, classic styles with a few thoughtful details that make them feel a little more special. (I have the West Side Tee in white.)

This one is another great option, and it comes in lots of colors. It’s also included in Bloomies’ TAKE UP TO 30% OFF promo right now. I really like the cotton/rayon fabric, the rolled cuffs, and the shape of the sleeves.

Style Tip: Sleeves with an angled cut like this tend to be more flattering—they visually slim the arm, especially when they hit right at the bust line, like this one does.

VERDICT: All that said, I have a lot of black tops right now, and I didn’t love this one enough to keep it.

Splendid Lousia Crewneck Tank in Lilac Rose

at Bloomies and Nordstrom (M) // PAIGE Nellie (30) // Veronica Beard Via (8)

DETAILS: The abbreviated length of this all-cotton tank enhances its fun, boxy silhouette and gives your casual looks a clean, relaxed attitude.

• 21″ length
• Crewneck
• 100% cotton
• Machine wash, tumble dry

Splendid is another brand I love for high-quality tees and tanks, and this crewneck tank caught my eye—mainly for the gorgeous color, but also for the slub texture and flattering fit it seemed to have on the Nordstrom website. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite translate in person. The 21″ length feels longer than expected, and the armholes are cut in quite a bit, so it takes some finagling to avoid bra show-through.

VERDICT: I sent this one back. I just didn’t love it.

LOFT Striped Harbor Tank Top

at LOFT (M) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // Reformation sandals (8)

DETAILS: In heavier-weight 100% cotton slub: the tank top just got an all-year-round upgrade. Crew neck. Sleeveless.

• 24″ long
• 100% Cotton
• Machine Washable

So many striped tops, so little time… I had it in my head that I wanted a beige and white stripe tee or tank to wear under my beige jackets with white jeans for a light monochrome look—but this one missed the mark by quite a bit. It’s thick, too long, too high in the neck, and the fit around the armholes is off.

VERDICT: Needless to say, it went back.

White + Warren Cashmere Striped Crewneck in Natural/Saddle Brown

at White + Warren (M) // MOTHER Dazzler (29) //  Margaux The Demi in Saddle (39)

DETAILS: We reimagined our classic cashmere crewneck with a slightly relaxed fit that’s light, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish. Hitting at the hip, this versatile sweater pairs easily with everything from jeans to skirts. The timeless two-tone striped pattern adds an extra touch of classic charm.

• Relaxed fit. Long sleeve.
• Length in size small is 21 1/2″.
• 100% Cashmere.
• Dry clean only.

I was influenced by Meghan to order this sweater. It’s definitely a splurge, but I’ve only ever heard good things about this brand, and I used her code to get a discount. I really love this light neutral colorway—it’s a classic I know I’ll have for years. The quality is incredible (as it should be at this price point), and the fit is practically perfect in every way.

From the contrast ribbed details at the neck, cuffs, and hem to the perfect 22″ length, the subtle shoulder seaming, and the relaxed (but not too boxy) fit—it’s all just so well done. And it feels amazing on.

VERDICT: Keeping. I’ve already worn it once, and I plan to bring it to London next month—assuming the weather stays as chilly as it’s been!

Caslon Stripe Pima Cotton Sweater in Tan-Ivory Emily Stripe

on sale at Nordstrom (S) // Risen jeans (29) // Gola Torpedo (8.5)

DETAILS: Add some cheer to sweater season in a chunky-stitch option turned out in happy stripe and crafted from premium pima cotton.

• 100% pima cotton
• Machine wash, dry flat

This is a really good alternative to the White + Warren cashmere stripe crewneck. It’s made from 100% pima cotton, so it’s lighter and will carry you further into spring—and it’s way more affordable. I really like this one too! In fact, if it had arrived before I wore the White + Warren, I may have just kept this instead.

I love how the contrast stitching at the neck, cuffs, and hem is done in beige, and you know how much I love a raglan sleeve! The fit is great—not boxy or overly relaxed, but not too fitted either.

VERDICT: I’m not sure I need both, but this is a solid option if you want the look for less.

Risen High Rise Step Hem Jeans in Dark Wash

at Social Threads (29) // Caslon striped sweater (S) // Gola Torpedo (8.5)

DETAILS: High rise relaxed straight leg jeans with distressed step hem. 

• Inseam: 28 in.
• Rise: 10.5 in.
• 73% Cotton 25% Polyester 2% Spandex
• Turn inside out, machine wash cold.

In an attempt to feature more denim under $100, I ordered this pair from the popular Risen brand. So many women I know love them, but they never seem to work quite right on me.

The back view isn’t bad, but I didn’t love how they looked from the front, and the raw hemline is a little too distressed for my personal style. The denim is also fairly heavy and not as comfortable as I had anticipated.

VERDICT: These weren’t a win for me, but they’re fully stocked if you want to give them a try! (Inventory at Social Threads tends to go quickly, so if you like this style, don’t wait around.)

AllSaints Anna Crewneck Cotton T-Shirt in Chalk

at AllSaints, Nordstrom & Bloomingdale’s (M) // MOTHER Insider (29) // Gola Viper (7.5)

DETAILS: An easy piece, this is the Anna T-Shirt. Crafted from soft organic cotton, it’s shaped to a regular silhouette. Featuring turned-up cuffs and our AllSaints signature on the back of the neck. We keep this staple on rotation all year round – make it part of your collection.

• Crewneck
• Short sleeves
• 100% cotton
• Dry clean
• Made in Portugal

I ordered this AllSaints tee in the name of blog research… I definitely don’t need another plain white tee, but I’ve been asked to update my white T-shirt review post for the season, and this one seemed worth a try. I love the abbreviated cuff sleeves, and the length is just right with an on-trend boxy fit.

My only complaint is the neckline—it’s a very high crewneck. It’s also quite sheer, but that’s part of the look. Just a heads-up, since I know a lot of ladies prefer more coverage.

VERDICT: I’m undecided on this one. I also ordered the V-neck version to compare…

Anna V Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt

at AllSaints, Nordstrom & Bloomingdale’s (M) // MOTHER Insider (29) // Gola Viper (7.5)

DETAILS: An easy piece – this is the Anna T-Shirt. Crafted from soft organic cotton, it’s shaped to a classic silhouette, featuring turned-up cuffs and our AllSaints signature on the back of the neck. We keep this staple on rotation all year round – make it part of your collection.

• 24″ length (size Medium)
• V-neck
• Cap sleeves
• 100% cotton
• Machine wash, line dry
• Made in Portugal

This is the V-neck version, and it’s somehow even more sheer! As you can see, I’m wearing a black bra—which is kind of “a look” these days—but I probably wouldn’t wear it out that way. I need to try it with a tan bra and see if I like it better.

That said, I love everything else about this tee—the cut, the fit, the sleeves, the V-neck, the length. Gah, I just wish it weren’t quite so sheer. I also snapped a pic of the back to show the subtle AllSaints logo print—just a fun little detail that makes it feel more elevated than your basic tee.

VERDICT: TBD… it’s almost perfect, but the sheerness might be a dealbreaker.

Talbots Fresh Poplin Jacket in Corn Silk

at Talbots (size 8) // AllSaints Anna Crewneck (M) // MOTHER Insider (29) // Gola Viper 7.5

DETAILS: Channel utility-inspired style with our crisp cotton poplin jacket. Detailed with crest buttons. Crafted with button flap front pockets for your everyday essentials.

• Length: Misses: 21″; Petite: 20 1/2″; Plus: 23 1/2″
• 96% Cotton, 4% Spandex; Lining: 100% Cotton
• Care: Machine Wash Cold; Line Dry

This jacket needs more elevated styling—I wouldn’t wear it with these jeans—but it’s a nice option if you’re looking for workwear. Butter yellow is trending in a big way this spring, and this piece definitely taps into that.

I found the fabric a little stiff, and the silver buttons are very shiny, but it fits well in the size 8. I think it could be a great choice for women who need polished pieces for the office.

VERDICT: Not for me, but a solid workwear option if this color’s on your radar.

GIBSON LOOK The Favorite Luxe V-Neck T-Shirt in Heather Grey

at Nordstrom (S) // MOTHER Insider (29) // Gola Viper (7.5)

DETAILS: Relaxed weekend style is the name of the game with this closet-staple T-shirt featuring a classic V-neck and cap sleeves.

• 23 1/2″ length
• V-neck
• Cap sleeves
• Side slits
• 92% rayon, 8% spandex
• Hand wash, dry flat

This tee is made from a really soft rayon/spandex blend, and it has such a nice drape. The split hem is slightly longer in the back, which feels a little dated to me—but also kind of a nice detail, so… take that for what it’s worth! I really like the cap sleeves, too—they’re flattering and add just a little something extra.

VERDICT: I’m a bit undecided on this one. I have the FRAME Le Mid Rise V-neck in a very similar shade of grey, and I feel like I’d always reach for that instead—but this is a great alternative for less.

Z Supply Ines Striped Crochet Sweater Top in Sea Salt

at Z Supply (size M) // MOTHER Insider (29) // Gola Viper (7.5)

DETAILS: Breezy and effortless, this sleeveless crochet knit top features an airy open weave and yarn-dyed stripes for a vintage-inspired feel. A must-have layering piece, it pairs perfectly with everything from high-rise denim to flowy skirts.

• Sweater Knit: 80% Cotton 20% Nylon
• Hand Wash Cold, Reshape and Lay Flat To Dry

I’m just a girl, standing in front of a striped tee, wishing it looked better on me… Name that movie! 😄

This crochet knit top has a great texture and an easy, relaxed fit. I really wanted to love it, but something about the way it falls just doesn’t quite flatter my middle. Maybe it’s the cut, maybe it’s the drape—but it’s not quite working for me.

VERDICT: Still on the fence, but probably going back.

Sanctuary The Perfect Tee in Pumice Stone/Black Stripe

at Zappos (M) // MOTHER Insider (29) // Gola Viper (7.5)

DETAILS: Ideal for everyday wear, the Sanctuary® Perfect T-Shirt is crafted from a soft knit fabrication with an edgy-cool print. 

• 55% cotton, 45% rayon.
• Machine wash cold and lay flat to dry.

Yes, another striped tee… I might have a problem. 😅 This one caught my eye because of the finer stripe pattern and the contrasting trim at the neckline. The cotton/rayon fabric is lovely—thin but not sheer, with a nice drape. That said, I just didn’t love it on me. The neckline is quite high, and I think I would’ve liked it better with more of a scoop or ballet neck.

VERDICT: Sent it back. Close, but not quite right for me—and let’s be honest, I’m definitely not lacking in stripe tops!