Spring Try-On Haul: Chic Dresses, Stylish Tops & Lightweight Jackets | Jo-Lynne Shane

New Season, New Styles: Spring Fashion for Women Over 40

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.

Diana French Terry Blazer

at Evereve // Pistola Kinsley Flare (29) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS: Look chic from work to weekend in the Diana blazer by Splendid, crafted in comfortable French terry fabric with a double-breasted button closure, patch pockets, and raw edge detailing.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 23 1/2″
• Material: 100% Cotton Terry
• Care: Machine Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low

This blazer is such a fun twist on a classic. The knit fabric has a soft, sweatshirt-like feel, making it the perfect mix of polished and relaxed, and the navy color is incredibly versatile. I styled it here with a split-neck tee, but I think a crewneck or scoop neck would complement the V-neckline better.

VERDICT: Definitely keeping this. In fact, it might be part of my travel outfit tomorrow!

Aiden Crop Shirting

at Evereve (S) (also in Tan/Cream Stripe) // LOFT flares (29) // Kanika Mid Pump (8)

DETAILS: Crafted in striped cotton fabric, this button-down shirt by EVEREVE is perfect for work-to-weekend wear, featuring long sleeves with button tabs, a left chest pocket, and a cropped silhouette for a chic, modern feel.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 22″
• Material: 100% Cotton Woven
• Care: Machine Wash, Tumble Dry Low

I shared this in last week’s Try-On Haul in the Tan/Cream Stripe colorway in the size medium, and this is the Blue. I think it’s so pretty, and I was happily surprised to see how well the size small fits. Now I’m conflicted about which one to keep.

I also have this fun chartreuse cardigan on my rolling rack, so I tried throwing it over my shoulders like they did styled it on the website… it really is a fun way to add interest (and a bit of warmth) to an outfit!

VERDICT: I’m debating this or the tan stripe, but I need to decide soon because I want to pack one for Florida.

KUT from the Kloth Alora Stripe Short Sleeve Henley Sweater

at Nordstrom (M) // Pistola Kinsley Flare (29) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS: Horizontal stripes contrast with vertical ones on the cuffs and hem, giving a lively look to a henley sweater framed by elbow-length sleeves.

• 22 1/2″ length
• Button half placket
• Elbow-length sleeves
• Ribbed cuffs and hem
• 85% viscose, 15% nylon
• Hand wash, dry flat

I love pairing black and white in the spring, and this striped Henley sweater is such a fun take on the classic combo. It has that effortlessly polished vibe that feels current and aligns well with my personal style. My only hesitation is the length—I find it a bit long, and I’m torn on sizing.

And here’s how it looks in the small, styled with my Frank & Eileen Derry Pull On Jeans and black loafers.

VERDICT: I think the medium is the better fit overall, even though it’s slightly longer than I’d prefer, so I’ll probably keep that one.

Fidelity Katie Flare

at Nordstrom (29) // Talbots Chunky Knit Roll Neck Sweater (S) // Reformation Eleonora Slingback (8.5)

DETAILS: Katie is a go to high classic flare leg in our collection. Not to over the top wide but just the perfect balance of a full and fashionable with comfort and ease built right in.

• 32″ inseam; 20″ leg opening; 10″ front rise
• 48% cotton; 45% lyocell; 5% elasterell-p; 2% spandex
• Machine wash, tumble dry low

I’ve been on the hunt for white flare jeans for spring, and this pair from Fidelity Denim is a strong contender. The fabric has a nice weight and isn’t too see-through, and the fit is really flattering—but they’re just a bit too snug in the waistband. I think I need to size up to avoid a muffin-top, but unfortunately, the size 30 won’t arrive before my trip. (This is exactly why I always recommend ordering two sizes!)

I love the sleek, leg-lengthening silhouette, and the raw hem means I can trim them if they’re a little long when the larger size comes in.

VERDICT: I ordered the size 30 to try.

Shayla Pullover

at Evereve (M) // rag & bone Wren (29) // Gola Torpedo (8.5)

DETAILS: Red-and-white stripes elevate this chic crewneck sweater by EVEREVE. The Shayla pullover is crafted in a cotton-blend knit and features a ribbed hem, vertical stitching details, and ribbed cuffs with gold buttons.

• 32″ inseam; 20″ leg opening; 10″ front rise
• 48% cotton; 45% lyocell; 5% elasterell-p; 2% spandex
• Machine wash, tumble dry low

I’m such a sucker for stripes, and they’re everywhere right now! This red-and-white striped sweater makes a statement without feeling too bold for my more understated style. The lightweight fabric is really nice—perfect for layering now and wearing on its own when the weather warms up. I also love the button detail on the sleeves.

VERDICT: Keeping! This is going right in my suitcase.

rag & bone Flexi Wren High Waist Slim Straight Leg Jeans

at Nordstrom (29) // Shayla Pullover (M) // Gola Torpedo (8.5)

DETAILS: Cut from featherweight superstretch denim, these slim-cut, full-length jeans feature a versatile medium wash with vintage-inspired character.

• 30″ inseam; 15″ leg opening; 12 1/2″ front rise; 15 1/2″ back rise (size 29)
• 75% cotton, 12% polyester, 6% Lycra, 5% recycled cotton, 2% spandex
• Machine wash, line dry

These jeans are a new style I keep hearing about—supposedly the ‘new’ skinny jean silhouette, but I can’t say I’m a fan. The 30″ inseam feels long on me—I don’t love how they break on top of these shoes. Maybe I should have tried them with sandals or ballet flats for a fair shot, but overall, they just felt frumpy. I wasn’t crazy about the wash either.

That said, looking at these pictures, they are fairly flattering from the sides and rear. If I liked the wash more, I might be willing to play around with styling them with different shoes.

VERDICT: I think I’ll return these and look for them in a different wash.

Splendid Dre Cardigan in Chartreuse

at Evereve (S) (also in Hot Pink and Moonstone) // Pistola Kinsley Flare (29) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS: Elevate your wardrobe with this must-have cardigan by Splendid. Finished in a textured cotton-blend knit, this chic sweater features a button-front silhouette with patch pockets and a cropped length—perfect for wearing alone or layered.

• Neckline: Crew Neck
• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 19″
• Material: 60% Cotton, 40% Acrylic Knit
• Care: Dry Clean Only

I thought this chartreuse color was so fun, and I love how they styled it over the Aiden crop shirt (as shown above) so I popped it into my cart. Sadly, it feels a little small. I wish I’d ordered the medium.

VERDICT: I’m hoping to run to the mall today and see if I can exchange this for the medium.

Sanctuary The Perfect Geo Print Cotton Blend Knit Top in Sky Floral

at Nordstrom (M) // LOFT flare (29) // Gola Torpedo (8.5)

DETAILS: Jazz up your laid-back look with a cotton-first top covered in a groovy print.

• 24″ length (size Medium)
• 51% cotton, 49% rayon
• Machine wash, dry flat

I’ve been trying to add more color and print to my wardrobe, and I thought this subtle take might be a good fit—but I just don’t love it. That said, the quality is nice. I like the cotton-rayon blend, and it comes in lots of colors and patterns. I also ordered the Neutral Floral, which I might like better, but it hasn’t arrived yet

VERDICT: Returning this one.

Gap Factory Relaxed Hoodie

at Gap Factory (S) // LOFT flare (29) // Gola Torpedo (8.5)

DETAILS:  Soft comfy fleece jacket relaxed fit that hits right below the hip.

• Long raglan sleeves with banded cuffs.
• Hood, zip front.
• Kanga pockets.
• 77% Cotton Better Cotton, 23% Polyester Recycled
• Care: Machine wash cold. Tumble dry low.

I shared this jacket in last week’s Try-On Haul. I threw it on over the floral tee to see how I liked the pairing—and I think it works… if I liked the shirt more. Either way, I wanted to show how the jacket looks zipped up since I didn’t include that last time.

I really like this one; it has such a nice, easy fit. I think it’s going to come in handy on my Florida trip—I can even wear it with shorts!

VERDICT: Keeping; packing it!

Talbots Finds for Late Winter/Early Spring

I ordered a few things from Talbots, and they’re having a sale right now—25% off pants, tops, and jeans!

Talbots Chunky Knit Roll Neck Sweater Heritage Green

at Talbots (S) // Fidelity Katie Flare (29) // Reformation Eleonora Slingback (8.5)

DETAILS: Chunky, cozy and always effortless. Wrap yourself in the cozy warmth of this roll neck sweater. Crafted in gorgeous chunky knit texture. An elevated cool-weather essential.

• Misses: 23″; Petite: 22″; Plus: 26″; Plus Petite: 24 1/2″
• Material: 100% Cotton
• Machine Wash Cold; Reshape, Lay Flat To Dry

This sweater is more winter than spring, but it’s great for those of us living in cold climates who want to brighten things up without sacrificing warmth. It’s really cozy and comfortable and has a nice fit.

VERDICT: I’m really in spring shopping mode at this point, but this is a nice piece, if you need it. It also comes in blue.

Talbots Fresh Poplin Coat

at Talbots (S) // LOFT flare (29) // Gola Torpedo (8.5)

DETAILS: Versatile. Timeless. Our iconic mac coat in crisp cotton poplin with a sleek back vent seam. Accented with sleek side panels and welt front pockets. The perfect outfit topper for round-the-clock ease.

• Water Resistant; Fully Lined
• Fit: Misses: 38″; Petite: 36″; Plus: 39 1/2″
• 60% Cotton, 40% Biconstituent Fiber; Lining: 90% Polyester, 10% Cotton
• Care: Dry Clean

I ordered a few spring jackets with my trip to England in mind. This is a really nice quality coat, and it has a great fit. The contrast pinstriped lining is a fun detail, and I like this color a lot.

I think I prefer a mac coat to a traditional trench; the way the sleeves and shoulders are designed are way more flattering for my square shoulders, and I always prefer a single-breasted style.

Here’s how it looks buttoned-up. I think it works, but it feels a bit snug through the back and shoulders. I feel like I’d be more comfortable if I sized up to a medium.

VERDICT: I ordered a similar coat from Sézane, and it arrived yesterday, but I haven’t had time to try it on yet. I’ll compare and decide if I want to re-order this in the medium or not.

Talbots Refined Denim Short Trench Coat

at Talbots (S) // LOFT flares (29) // Gola Torpedo (8.5)

DETAILS: Elevate your casual-chic looks with this utilitarian-inspired trench coat. Crafted from a soft, refined denim jacket with button detailing at the storm flap. Features functional button patch pockets and buttons at the cuffs.

• Hits At Hip
• Button front closure
• Button flap front pockets
• Fit: Misses: 24″; Petite: 23″; Plus: 26 1/2″
• 98% Cotton, 2% Spandex; Lining: 70% Polyester, 30% Cotton
• Care: Dry Clean

Denim jackets are taking on new shapes and dimensions this spring, and I thought this short trench would be a fun way to dip my toe into the trend. I’ve always loved denim jackets, but lately, the classic styles in my closet have been feeling a little stale.

I probably should have tried a few more styling options before making up my mind, but this one just misses the mark. The fabric feels a bit stiff, and overall, I don’t find it comfortable.

VERDICT: Returning.

Talbots Twill Short Trench Coat

at Talbots (S) // Frank & Eileen Derry Pull On Jeans (29) // similar loafers

DETAILS: A shorter length brings a striking, modern touch to your favorite trench coat. In looks-good, feels-good twill with an inverted box pleat and storm flaps with buttons.

• Fit: Misses: 25″; Petite: 23 1/2″; Plus: 27 1/2″
• Material: Shell: 71% Cotton 29% Nylon; Lining: 100% Polyester
• Care: Machine Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low, Cool Iron If Needed 

This coat is such a gorgeous green, but it’s also too small for me through the shoulders, and I don’t care for the swing style.

VERDICT: Returning.

Spring Dresses

Finally, I ordered a few dresses with my trip to Florida in mind. I get a lot of requests for spring dresses, so I’m hoping to shoot quite a few while I’m down there.

CIEBON Brynlee Halter Dress

at Nordstrom (M) // Sam Edelman Cressa Slingback (8)

DETAILS: Beautifully print fabric adds to the getaway-ready feel of this gorgeous halter dress with a shoulder-baring neckline and svelte tie belt that adds shape to the waist.

• 80% rayon, 20% nylon
• Hand wash, dry flat

This is really pretty; I love the fabric, but I don’t feel like it looks very good on me. I never do well with tie waist styles when the dress itself doesn’t have a lot of shape.

VERDICT: Returned this one.

Z Supply Cecily Polka Dot Slip Dress

at Evereve (M) // Sam Edelman Cressa Slingback (8)

DETAILS: Polka Dot details add the perfect finishing touch to this easy slip dress from Z Supply, featuring a fully lined design, adjustable straps, and a flattering scoop neckline. 

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 50″
• Material: Shell: 100% Polyester Woven Lining: 100% Polyester
• Care: Hand Wash, Hang To Dry

Polka dots are trending this spring, and this simple slip dress has such a simple but feminine silhouette. I don’t always love how I look with dresses cut on the bias, but this one seems to work.

I like that it’s fully lined; it doesn’t feel so much like a nightgown. I also appreciate the adjustable straps because I need to pull them up quite a bit to get good chest coverage.

I tried a few styling options, since I will definitely want a topper, and I like both of these for different looks.

Dre Cardigan (S) // Rocky Two Pocket Utility (S)

VERDICT: Keeping this one. Packing it for Florida!

Also, I really love these sandals. They’re super comfortable, but also strappy and pretty with dresses. They come in lots of colors, too.

Talbots Refined Denim Dress

at Talbots (8) // Veronica Beard Via Slide Sandal (8)

DETAILS: Our effortlessly polished fit & flare dress. Crafted from soft, refined denim. Expertly tailored with princess seams for a modern, ultra-flattering fit. Sleeveless silhouette layers perfectly from work to weekends.

• Fit & Flare Dress
• Sleeveless
• Hidden back zip closure
• Hits Below Knee
• Misses: 43 3/4″ Long
• Material: 98% Cotton, 2% Spandex
• Care: Dry Clean

Denim dresses are trending, so I thought I’d try this. I sort of like it, but I think it’s too big. I might pack it just so I can shoot it and then order a size 6 for when I get home.

VERDICT: I’m still debating; this isn’t really my style, but I’m curious to see how it would look in the size 6.

Also, these sandals are a splurge, but they’re gorgeous.

Nordstrom Pleated Midi Dress

at Nordstrom (S) // old Tory Burch sandals

DETAILS: Sharp pleats add shape and movement to this charming dolman-sleeve midi punctuated with a flared skirt for a twirl-worthy look and feel.

• 93% viscose, 7% polyester
• Machine wash, line dry

This dress is so not my style, but I was curious to try it, and you know, I actually kind of like it! It needs a good steam, and I couldn’t fasten the back on my own (so it looks too big across the shoulders) but I may try it again when I can have help and see if I think it’s worth taking on my trip.

VERDICT: Still deciding.