Spring Try-On Haul: White Denim, Tops, Jackets, Sandals & More | Jo-Lynne Shane

White Denim: A Classic Spring Staple

I’ve been trying out lots of white jeans lately—both to refresh my own spring denim wardrobe and to give you all some solid options since I’ve been getting so many requests. I still have a few more on my list to try, but here’s what I’ve found so far.

Madewell Kick Out Crop Jeans in Pure White

at Nordstrom // at Zappos // on sale at Madewell (29) // LOFT stripe sweater (S) // Schutz flats (8) // Sam Edelman slides (8)

DETAILS: An updated cut to Madewell’s fan-fave Cali Demi fit, these lean, modern mid-rise cropped jeans have a kicked-out flare leg.

• 27 1/2″ inseam; 16 1/2″ leg opening; 10 1/4″ front rise
• Zip fly with button closure
• Five-pocket style
• 86% cotton, 9% polyester, 5% elastane
• Machine wash, tumble dry

These jeans have a thicker denim feel—nicely stretchy and comfortable but with enough structure to hold their shape. I love the subtle kick crop; it’s not too dramatic but still balances my hips, and the finished hem keeps them looking polished.

The length works really well for me, hitting at just the right spot to pair with these rattan slides. They show just enough ankle to feel intentional without not veering into high-water territory.

Here’s how they look with ballet flats—I think this works just as well. The silver and white create a seamless effect, almost blending together like a single color, which helps elongate the leg line.

Sizing note: The 29 fits, which is rare for me right now, so I’d say these run big. You may want to size down, if ordering.

VERDICT: I’m debating whether I need these since I’m already keeping a straight crop pair, but they’re a strong contender. Also, they’re 25% off at Madewell right now! (You do need to be an Insider to get the discount, but it’s free to join.)

AG Farrah Mid Rise Rise Crop Bootcut Jeans in Gallery White

at Nordstrom (30) // LOFT stripe sweater (S) // Sam Edelman slides (8)

DETAILS: Keep it casual and cool in these mid-rise slim bootcut jeans made from stretch-kissed denim is a bright-white wash.

• 27″ inseam; 17″ leg opening; 10″ front rise
• Zip fly with button closure
• Five-pocket style
• 93% cotton, 5% polyester, 2% elastane
• Machine wash, tumble dry

These jeans are very similar to the Madewell pair, but the denim feels a bit thinner. They were snug in the waist—though, to be fair, almost everything is these days! The flare is slightly more exaggerated, and they’re just a smidge shorter, but overall, they’re quite similar.

VERDICT: Since the Madewell pair is a little more comfortable and the price difference makes it an easy choice, I’m returning these and keeping those.

AG Mari Mid Rise Slim Straight Leg Crop Jeans

at Nordstrom (30) // at Saks (30) // LOFT stripe sweater (S) // Schutz flats (8) // Sam Edelman slides (8)

DETAILS: Made from low-stretch denim, these slim-cut straight-leg jeans are a go-to for everyday casual looks and feature a cropped length.

• 27″ inseam; 14″ leg opening; 10 1/2″ front rise
• Zip fly with button closure
• Five-pocket style
• 98% cotton, 2% elastane
• Machine wash, tumble dry

I really like these as a straighter option. The fabric is incredibly lightweight, stretchy, and comfortable, and the waistband isn’t as snug as some others I’ve tried. They’re almost too thin—there’s a bit of sheerness—but it’s not a deal breaker.

The rear pockets are on the larger side and maybe not quite as flattering as the Madewell pair, but again, not a deal breaker. At this point, finding jeans that are both stylish and comfortable feels like a challenge, so I’m willing to make a few concessions for comfort.

VERDICT: I’m definitely keeping these. While longer styles are trending—and I do like those for dressier occasions—I still think cropped jeans just make sense for spring and summer. They’re easy to style and feel more effortless for warmer weather!

Wit & Wisdom Logan ‘Ab’Solution High Waist Ankle Slim Straight Leg Jeans

at Nordstrom (8) // LOFT stripe sweater (S) // Sam Edelman slides (8)

DETAILS: Casually polished in a bright-white palette, these cleanly styled jeans feature slim-cut straight legs and ‘Ab’solution powermesh panels that mold and hold.

• 27″ inseam
• Zip fly with button closure
• Five-pocket style
• 64% cotton, 35% polyester, 1% spandex
• Machine wash, tumble dry

These have a very similar cut to the AG pair and are almost as comfortable. They’re a little looser in the leg, with a thicker denim fabric that still feels soft and stretchy.

VERDICT: These don’t quite match the look and feel of the AG pair, and I prefer the lighter-weight denim for warmer weather. Plus, based on past experience, I know AG will hold their shape better over time, so I’m sticking with those. That said, if you’re looking for a solid option under $100, these are worth considering!

MOTHER High Waist Flare Jeans in Totally Innocent

at MOTHER // at Nordstrom (30) // LOFT stripe sweater (S) // Donald Pliner sandals (8)

DETAILS: MOTHER’s in the clear. This cult-favorite flare has a mid rise with a 31-inch inseam and a clean hem. Cut from semi-rigid SUPERIOR denim, Totally Innocent is a classic white with tonal hardware.

• 30″ inseam; 19″ leg opening; 9 1/2″ front rise
• Zip fly with button closure
• Five-pocket style
• 98% cotton, 2% elastane
• Hand wash, line dry
• Made in the USA

I love the Weekender—it’s my absolute favorite style of jean—so I thought these would be a slam dunk. But honestly, they’ve been frustrating. I love the fit, but they run snug—even in my “new” size 30. So I ordered the 31, and if anything, they feel even tighter! I have no idea how that happens.

Then this morning, while looking for measurements, I noticed this “warning” on the MOTHER website: These jeans are rigid and take time to break in. MOTHER suggests sizing up one size.

Well, at least it’s not just me! Given that, I decided to order the 32 just for kicks. I really like the cut of these, so if I have to go up two sizes to get the right fit, so be it.

VERDICT: These are gorgeous jeans, but the sizing is tricky. I’d definitely recommend ordering two (or even three?) sizes to compare!

Fidelity Katie High Rise Classic Flare Jeans

at Nordstrom (30) // LOFT stripe sweater (S) // Donald Pliner sandals (8)

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

You may remember these from my last try-on haul. The size 29 was too tight in the waist, so I re-ordered the size 30. These fit better and are comfortable, but the denim is very thin, to the point of almost being see-through, and I don’t feel like they flatter me at all from behind.

VERDICT: I returned these; I’m really hoping I can get one of the MOTHER Weekenders to work.

MOTHER The Tomcat Ankle in Cream Puffs

at MOTHER // at Nordstrom // on sale at Nordstrom Rack ?? (30) // Gia Cowl (S) // Sam Edelman slides (8)

DETAILS: High-rise pants with a straight leg, button fly, ankle-length inseam and a clean hem. Cut from comfortable stretch fabric, Cream Puffs is an off-white wash with tonal hardware.

• 27 1/2″ inseam; 14″ leg opening; 10 3/4″ front rise
• Button fly
• Five-pocket style
• 94% cotton, 4% polyester, 2% elastane
• Machine wash, tumble dry
• Made in Los Angles

First things first: I have no idea why these are fully stocked and on sale at Nordstrom Rack while they’re still full price at Nordstrom and on the MOTHER website. I have to assume they’re the same jeans? Maybe it’s a mistake.

As for the look and fit, I thought I liked them—until I caught the rear view. The back pockets are spaced pretty far apart, and I feel like it throws off the proportions, maybe even making my backside look wider than it is.

Otherwise, there’s a lot to love—the ecru color is beautiful, the denim is thick, soft, and high quality, and the length works well with both flats and heels. They’re a little snug in the waist, but not necessarily a deal breaker.

I love how they pair with both the blue cowl neck top and the beige stripe button-up, and I know I want to add a pair of ecru denim to my wardrobe this season. Maybe I should just ignore the back pocket issue…

VERDICT: I was planning to send these back, but now I’m not so sure.

Tops & Jackets: Polished Staples & Lightweight Layers

I’ve got a mix of sweaters and tops that just came in, plus a couple of lightweight jackets that are perfect for topping off spring outfits.

SPANX® AirEssentials Striped Cardigan

at SPANX (S) // MOTHER Tomcat in Cream Puff (30) // Sam Edelman slides (8)

DETAILS: Designed with faux buttons and a relaxed fit, it’s perfect for everyday layering. It’ll be your new, throw-on-and-go essential sweater—because stripes go with everything, right?

• UPF 50+ Protection
• Shoulder-to-Hem Length: 23″
• 47% Modal, 42% Polyester, 11% Elastane.
• Machine Wash Cold, Gentle Cycle. Tumble Dry Low.

I can’t remember exactly what drew me to this top—I think I saw it on another influencer and liked how it looked on her. I love the boxy fit and V-neck, but I’m not a big fan of the dropped shoulders, and the fabric is a bit odd. It has a slightly shiny, polyester feel rather than the softness of knitwear.

That said, it has a good weight to it and feels like a modern update to a classic cardigan. If you like the look, it’s worth a try! It runs slightly big, as the small fits me comfortably.

VERDICT: I decided to send this back; I don’t love it.

Retro Brand Black Label Bonjour Tee

at Evereve (M) // MOTHER Roller (29) // Vince Prema (8)

DETAILS: Update your spring wardrobe with this fun graphic tee by Retro Brand Black Label. This crewneck silhouette is crafted in soft, vintage-feel cotton fabric with a raw edge hem, short sleeves, and “Bonjour” lettering across the front.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 25 1/2″
• Material: 100% Cotton Jersey
• Care: Machine Wash, Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low

I’ve been wanting to add more color to my spring wardrobe, and this graphic tee seemed like a great option for casual looks. Plus, Paris is high on my travel wishlist (we had a trip planned that got canceled due to Covid), so it felt like a fun choice. It also looked soft and comfortable, which is always a plus.

It is soft and comfortable, but I’m not loving the fit. The crewneck is really high, and the cut is so straight and long that even with a front tuck, it feels a little frump-a-dump.

VERDICT: This one’s going back—I think I can do better.

Clare V. Ciao Classic Tee

at Evereve (M) // Ever Wide Leg with Seam Detail (29) // Adidas Handball Spezial (8)

DETAILS: Top off your graphic tee collection with the Ciao Classic Tee by Clare V., featuring soft cotton fabric, short sleeves, and a relaxed, cropped fit.

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

I love this graphic tee. It has a nice weight to it, and the coral color is really pretty—but it runs very small. It just fits, and since it’s 100% cotton, I worry it might shrink in the wash.

As for these jeans… they’re just okay. The fabric feels a little rough—not as soft and comfortable as I’d like—but I do like the vertical seam details and angled front pockets. They’re also a bit too long for me to wear with sneakers, though they work fine with heels.

VERDICT: Both of these went back, but I reordered the tee in a large. It actually came in yesterday, so I snapped a few quick pics…

Charlize Crew Neck Sweatshirt

at Evereve (S) // MOTHER Weekender (29) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS: Perfect for your everyday wardrobe, the Charlize sweatshirt by EVEREVE is crafted in a comfy cotton blend and features a relaxed crewneck silhouette with dropped shoulders, exposed seam details, and ribbed trim at the collar, cuffs, and hem.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 23 1/2
• Material: 69% Cotton, 31% Polyester Knit
• Care: Machine Wash, Tumble Dry Low

I was immediately drawn to this sweatshirt when I saw it online—I just knew I’d love it. It’s a classic style, nothing groundbreaking, but it has all the right details: that perfectly washed fabric, exposed seam accents, a relaxed fit, and just the right length. Even the drop shoulder doesn’t bother me (though a raglan sleeve would make it perfection).

This is exactly how I pictured wearing it—with lighter wash denim and white sneakers—either these or my VEJA Esplars in the Sable. The only issue is it feels a bit small on me, and there’s definitely no room for shrinkage.

VERDICT: I reordered this in a medium for a better fit.

Bailey Stripe Grommet Sweatshirt

at Evereve (S) // MOTHER Weekender (29) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS: Give your spring wardrobe a coastal-inspired feel with the Bailey sweatshirt by EVEREVE. Finished in nautical blue-and-white stripes, this stylish pullover features a relaxed fit, flared long sleeves, and a henley neckline with grommet details.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 22″
• Material: 69% Cotton, 31% Polyester Knit
• Care: Machine Wash, Tumble Dry Low

I think this is such a fun piece—I love the grommet details, and the coastal-inspired style is right on trend. But once again, it’s too small, especially through the middle. Lately, I’ve been needing to size up in almost everything… which is so fun. Ha. (Not.)

VERDICT: I also reordered this one in a medium!

Evereve Sophia Linen Muscle

at Evereve (S) // MOTHER Weekender (29) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

DETAILS: Finished in a breezy linen blend, the Sophia muscle tank is the perfect warm-weather staple. A must-have style from our Newport Linen Collection, this sleeveless silhouette features a relaxed fit, pleated back detail, and bra-friendly gussets at the armholes.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 22 3/4″
• Material: 55% Linen, 45% Rayon Woven
• Care: Machine Wash, Tumble Dry Low

Another cute top, but again, a little small. I do like the gussets at the armholes for a bra-friendly fit, and the breezy linen fabric makes it an easy piece to pair with everything from jeans to skirts.

VERDICT: I didn’t love it enough to reorder in a medium, but it’s a great option if it fits what you’re looking for.

Halogen Tipped Johnny Collar Polo Sweater

at Nordstrom (M) // MOTHER Weekender (30) // old Vince wedge sandals

DETAILS: A johnny collar tops a soft and svelte cotton-blend polo-sweater knit with short sleeves and ribbed trim that spices up the sporty look.

• Johnny collar
• Short sleeves
• Ribbed cuffs and hem
• 60% cotton, 20% viscose, 20% modal
• Hand wash, dry flat

This top is really nice—I love black and white for spring, and it pairs effortlessly with white jeans. I bookended the look with black wedge sandals for a cohesive finish.

That said, I’m a bit conflicted. It feels a little buttoned-up and safe, but I also really like the fit, and I can see it being a useful piece in my spring wardrobe. I picture wearing it to church… but beyond that, I’m not sure.

VERDICT: I’m on the fence with this one. I’d love to hear your thoughts!

KUT from the Kloth Amanda Boxy Twill Jacket in Ecru

on sale at Nordstrom (S) // Boden Ella (8) // MOTHER Weekender (29) // adidas Spezial (8)

DETAILS: Super versatile for casual outfits, this military-inspired jacket is made from super soft stretch twill in a slightly boxy fit that’s easy to layer.

• 23 1/2″ length
• Front zip closure with snap storm placket
• Spread collar
• Button cuffs
• Chest button-flap patch pockets; front welt pockets
• 54% cotton, 22% polyester, 14% lyocell, 9% rayon, 1% spandex
• Machine wash, tumble dry

I already have this jacket in the Tree color from last fall and decided to order the Ecru for spring—plus, it just went on sale! It’s a great jacket with a flattering fit, and the fabric is super stretchy and comfortable.

I like the Ecru, but I’m struggling with how to style it. It pairs well with blue jeans, which I wear often, but I’m not sure what top to wear underneath. I tried it over this striped tee last night, and you can kind of see the stripes through the sleeves—which I didn’t love. Overall, I still think I prefer the green (Tree) color.

Sizing note: I have the Tree color in a small from last fall, so I ordered the Ecru in a small as well—but, like most things these days, it’s feeling a bit snug. If I were to reorder, I’d go with a medium to compare. So if you’re between sizes, you may want to consider sizing up.

VERDICT: I may return the Ecru, but the Tree color is staying in my closet. It leans a little more “fall,” but I think I’ll still get plenty of wear out of it this spring. Also, this jacket is currently on sale! If you’re looking for a great spring layering piece, it’s definitely worth checking out—it also comes in Cafe and Powder Blue.

Boden Ella Short Sleeve Breton in Ivory, Black

at Boden (8) // MOTHER Weekender (29) // adidas Spezial (8)

DETAILS: A Breton tee is a classic and the short-sleeve Ella cotton style is no exception. The versatile stripes will go with anything in your wardrobe making it an easy choice when you’re umm-ing and ahh-ing over what to wear.

• Main 100% cotton
• Machine washable
• Slim – Skims over your body’s natural curves
• Designed to fall between the waist and hip

This is the top I’m wearing under the jacket above. I ordered it with my London trip in mind since I’m keeping my capsule to black, white, camel/oatmeal, and denim. It seemed like a great classic piece to add—versatile enough to wear under different jackets—but I’m not loving the fit.

It’s longer than I was hoping, and the 100% cotton fabric feels a bit stiff—not as comfortable as I expected. I’m wearing the 8 here, and while it feels a little snug, the 10 was definitely too big. It does give me some shape, which I appreciate, but it also seems to hug all the wrong spots, making me feel a bit self-conscious.

I do like the shape of the neckline, and black-and-white stripes are surprisingly hard to find (most are navy and white), but I’m on the fence. Maybe I’ll wear it for 20 minutes and see if I get used to it—or if I end up pulling and tugging at it, which is what I suspect will happen.

VERDICT: Not sure… but probably not keeping this one.

Frankie Stretch Linen Shacket

at Evereve (M) // MOTHER Roller (29) // Michael Stars Joni (M) // Vince Prema (8)

DETAILS: The Frankie Shacket by EVEREVE is the perfect layer for spring, crafted in a lightweight linen blend, this shirt jacket features gold snap button closures, two chest patch pockets, and a relaxed boxy fit. 

• Snap Closure
• Neckline: Point Collar
• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 21 1/4″
• Material: 53% Linen, 44% Lyocell, 3% Spandex Woven
• Care: Machine Wash, Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low

This shirt jacket is another great outfit-topper for spring, and I love the versatile shade of beige. The linen blend makes it very lightweight, and the cropped styling feels like a fresh update to the longer, oversized shackets from past seasons.

Sizing note: I ordered both the small and the medium, and the medium is definitely the better fit. It gives me a little extra length, so it doesn’t feel too skimpy, and some much-needed wiggle room around the upper back and shoulders.

VERDICT: Keeping this, for sure!

Michael Stars Joni Stripe Crew Neck Top

at Evereve (M) // MOTHER Roller (29) // Vince Prema (8)

DETAILS: A versatile wardrobe staple, the Joni striped top by Michael Stars is cut from soft rib knit fabric and features a slim-fit silhouette with a slightly cropped length, strong shoulder design, and ruched sides for a flattering touch—perfect for day-to-night wear.

• Length from Shoulder to Hem: 21″
• Material: 47% Rayon, 38% EcoVero Rayon, 10% Recycled Rayon, 5% Spandex Knit
• Care: Machine Wash, Tumble Dry Low

This is the top I’m wearing underneath the beige shacket, above. I’ve been on the hunt for a beige striped tee for my spring wardrobe—I love how versatile it is and how it feels a little more subdued than a higher-contrast navy or black-and-white stripe. But finding the right one has been a challenge!

This one has an odd fit. I knew with the ribbed fabric that I’d need to size up, so I ordered the medium—but I wish I’d also grabbed a large. It still feels very tight in the midsection, and the sleeves do a weird thing over the bust. (Also, I’m wearing waist-defining shapewear here, which I had on from earlier in the day. Without that, it would be far worse.) Overall, I just don’t find this top very flattering.

VERDICT: Returned this one.

Sandals: Comfortable, Stylish Picks for Warmer Days

Okay, finally—some spring footwear! These are the sandals I’ve been wearing throughout this post, plus a few flats I just ordered… once again, with London in mind. I have more on the way, but here’s what I’ve tried so far.

Donald Pliner Vlora Slingback Sandal

at Nordstrom (8)

DETAILS: A slightly flared block heel underscores the sophisticated, modern style of a slingback sandal complete with comfort-enhancing memory foam cushioning.

• 2 1/2″ heel
• Adjustable slingback strap with buckle closure
• Memory foam cushioning
• Leather upper/synthetic lining and sole

I’ve been looking for a higher-heeled sandal that’s comfortable enough for walking—something I can wear when we park and walk a few blocks to dinner, that kind of thing. I also have two pairs of jeans (the PAIGE Leenah and MOTHER Roller) that require at least a 3″ heel, and I’d rather not hem either of them.

These are just okay. I like the styling, but they’re not as comfortable as I’d hoped, and they’re not quite high enough anyway. (I also think I could size down half.)

VERDICT: I think I’ll be returning these and continuing the search for something similar.

Vince Prema Ankle Strap Wedge Sandal

at Nordstrom (8) // MOTHER Tomcat Cream Puff (30)

DETAILS: A thick, quilted vamp strap adds textural intrigue to a minimalist leather sandal set on a sculptural wedge heel for a dose of stylish height.

• 3″ heel
• Adjustable ankle strap with buckle closure
• Leather upper, lining and sole

These are slightly higher and a bit more delicate than what I had in mind. I feel like a block heel would be better for longer walks, but they’re pretty comfortable, and I usually have good luck with Vince shoes. My only hesitation—aside from the heel shape—is the color. I wish they were a cooler beige or leaned more toward cognac… right now, they just look kind of puke-colored to me. Haha!

VERDICT: I’m on the fence with these. Thoughts??

Sam Edelman Waylon Slide Sandal in Modern Ivory

at Nordstrom // at Amazon // at Zappos (8)

DETAILS: An iconic logo accent punctuates the bridge of a breezy slide sandal balanced by a square toe and flared block heel.

• 2″ heel; (size 8.5)
• Leather and textile upper/synthetic lining/rubber sole

I had these in black last summer and liked them well enough, so I decided to try them in New Ivory this year. The color pairs well with ecru jeans but is neutral enough to work with lots of other outfits. I also love the rattan heel and footbed—it adds just a hint of texture to a summer look.

VERDICT: Keeping these.

That wraps up this week’s try-on haul! I have a few more pieces on the way, so stay tuned for future updates. In the meantime, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Which pieces were your favorites? And if you’ve found any great spring wardrobe staples lately, let me know in the comments!

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