I tried on some new things this week…here’s my report
Yesterday was my birthday 🎂 so now I know that it’s all good “when I’m 64…” 🎵 😉 We had a quiet day, and enjoyed some takeout sushi from our favorite local spot.
I’m looking forward to shopping in person again eventually, but for the present am still more comfortable ordering online and trying things on at home. I don’t miss small, badly-lit dressing rooms, but do miss being able to grab another size or color to try on the spot.
I received a few deliveries this week, so decided to share my try-on session with you.
Classic blazer look
earrings (similar) | sweater blazer | necklace | top | jeans
First, I wanted to try this “Camille” sweater blazer from J.Crew because a navy blazer is such a classic wardrobe perennial. The knit fabric is lighter weight (comparable to the Sophie, though with a smoother texture) but substantial enough to have some structure. There is some wool in the blend. It does have inset pockets.
It’s definitely a more fitted piece. I’m wearing the Small here, and if I’d wanted to be able to wear it over another sweater I would have sized up. It’s offered in four colors, size XX-Small to 3X.
This would be a great piece for a casual office (or Zoom meetings) or if you want a less tailored version of classic blazer. Ultimately I decided it was more classic than what I need currently, so it’s going back.
Both this sweater blazer and the Sophie are currently 50% off with code GOSPRING !
A unique cotton cardigan
earrings (similar) | cardigan | necklace | top | jeans
I was really smitten with this pineapple print cardigan when I saw it online. It’s 100% cotton, and while the fabric isn’t bulky, it IS nice and warm. Especially with that shawl collar.
I’m wearing size Small. (I also ordered the XS but haven’t received it yet. I don’t think I’d want to size down on this one anyway.) It’s available in sizes XS-XL.
I went back and forth on this cardigan. While I love that print, something about the shape just isn’t working for me, so I’m returning. But if your style is softer or more Bohemian, it might be perfect for you.
Faux suede topper
earrings (similar) | jacket | necklace | tee | bracelet | jeans | sneakers (c/o)
Now we’re getting somewhere…
I ordered this faux suede topper, thinking it might be a workable trench coat alternative. In our climate, I really don’t need it to be waterproof, but I wanted the look and styling options of a trench without the belt, flaps and double-breasted cut.
I love the color and shape. It’s unlined and lightweight enough to wear through Spring. It has raw edges (clean, not frayed), so is a more casual piece. And it’s machine washable!
I’m wearing size 0 (4-6) and would say it runs true-to-size. It’s also available in a light sage color, sizes 00 (0/2) to 4 (20/22).
Chico’s is having a Three Ways to Save Event. For a limited time, get 40% off 3 or more styles, 30% off 2 styles, and 25% off 1 style.
This Sezane polka dot tee is a lightweight linen, which will be nice in the warmer months. It’s available in some other prints too, sizes XS-XXL. I’m wearing size Small, and think it runs large. I wish I’d ordered the XS.
I’ve been on the hunt for a lighter wash pair of mid-rise, slim straight-leg jeans, without obvious distressing. These fit the bill nicely. Sizes 24-32.
And yes, sneakers
I’m a longtime fan of Paul Green shoes, and was offered a pair from their latest collection to try. I loved the look of these “Felicity” high-tops with a zip opening. They’re sleek, soft and lightweight. And very comfortable, of course!
The sole is lightly padded, with good arch support. The inside has a soft terry lining. They’re offered in 3 colors. This sneaker runs about 1/2 size larger than my other PG sneakers.
Paul Green is offering my readers 15% off their first purchase this month with code FEMME15 ! And if sneakers aren’t your thing, there are lots of other great styles to choose from.
I’m Zooming again…
I’ll be going LIVE on Zoom again tomorrow with Brian of Brian + MW. He’ll be showing us some simple makeup techniques to help our skin look its best. And I’ll be trying and learning the techniques right along with you!
The session starts at 3pm ET/12pm PT, and should run for about 30-45 minutes. Space is limited, but if you’re interested in attending, you can register HERE (and submit any questions to Brian too).
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Hi, and Happy birthday ! I bought the JCrew blazer as well. When ordering it I was worried it was too cropped I received it yesterday and it’s very nice. This time of the year I want to think spring but it’s still chilly in Virginia, so this blazer fits the bill. Now looking for another trench coat. The one you chose is lovely but very close in color to what I all ready have.
It come in a light sage green too, FWIW.
Yes, the green was very nice but unfortunately it’s not my best color and I find when buy basics with color I tend to not wear them.
Happy Birthday! Hoping this next year is a happy and joyous one for you!
And its funny how differently each of us see things, when i saw the picture of the shawl collar pineapple cardi, i thought, i love the shape on that, but not the print, then i read your reaction and it was the exact opposite. I do love the suede jacket and the sneakers.
Happy Birthday, Susan! I think by now we’ve all had at least one “Covid” style birthday. Mine is in May and hoping things will be a tad different than last year. I ordered the J Crew blazer last week and just didn’t like the look of it on my short, waistless body. I’ll be sticking to the Juliette longer style sweater. Love that coat from Chicos on you. Was thinking of ordering that or going with the J Crew Icon trench in a similar beige color.
On another note was finally able to receive my first dosage of Pfizer vaccine and it was a wonderful feeling of relief. Hoping an end is in sight so we can all resume a somewhat normal existence that includes some travel this year. Eager to visit my daughters in Rome! In the meantime I can recommend Stanley Tucci’s show on CNN Searching for Italy.
We’ve been watching that too…it’s a delight!
Happy Birthday!
Quick question. I notice you have the sleeves of that coat pushed up. Are the sleeves a bit long or were they normal length for a petite?
Hi Lisa, I mostly push them up because I like the look. 😉 They’re probably a skosh long on me, but not so much that I couldn’t wear them full length. They’d be quite simple to shorten I think.
Thank you!
Happy Birthday! Love the third look on you–the trench and the polka dot t-shirt! Fabulous!
Happy birthday Susan! I like the look of those jeans. Do you like the PG Felicity high tops better than the low tops with platform soles?
Hi Sally, thanks! I like both styles, it just depends on the look I’m going for. The high tops are a sleeker style, and the low-top platforms are chunkier. If you’re someone who needs a lot of padding in the insole, I’d go with the platforms.
Happy Belated Birthday to you. We certainly have adopted a different way of celebrating this past year. I turned 65 and it was pretty much like any other day, so a lot to make up for when we are able. I saw that sweater and thought even though it is not my colours or style it is so great on you. I guess it is good that we all have different tastes and ideas of what we like, or it would be a very boring world. I like the zippers on the side of the shoes and am always looking for an easier way to get them off and on now that my fingers are not so cooperative with the laces.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! You look fabulous and thanks for all you do to make us all look and feel better.
Happy Birthday Susan. Thank you for modeling the Pineapple sweater. I’m 5’3″ so it helps me to see it on you rather than a tall model. The soft look is my style so I just ordered it in my regular size medium. I’m a tonal warm so I straddle spring & fall but only in the warmer colors. These colors look perfect. Its hard for me to find my colors this time of year so I’m excited about this sweater. Thank you again.
Susan, I love, LOVE, that pineapple cardigan on you: the colors are perfect, the cut skims beautifully, and the print is just a bit cheeky. Ah, well, if you don’t love it on you then nothing else matters but I’m glad I saw it on you; what a day-brightener!
I loved it on her too!
Hi Susan
Happy Birthday! I have a question about the polka tee, which I’ve had my eye on. Are you going to keep it? I would want to wear it to work and am wondering how casual it seems. Sometimes linen can look worn even when it’s new. I do love polka dots! Many thanks
Hi Anne, Thanks! Regarding the tee, I guess it depends on how formal your workplace is. I think it could absolutely work for a business casual office, layered under a cardigan or jacket.
Happy Birthday Susan! You are beautiful, and your radiance truly shines from within. Thank you for your wonderful columns which have brought comfort and happiness especially during the pandemic. Wishing you a wonderful year ahead!
Happy Birthday:).
I like the faux suede trench a lot. To my eye (which is of course subjective) you might want a more closely fitted top with it so that the lines stay sharp. As you say, the one you’re wearing you might try the next size down?
Happy Birthday, Susan! I love everything about that pineapple cardigan on you, but if it’s not to your taste, so be it. I’m so glad you tried that Chico’s topper as I’ve had my eye on it for all the reasons you list. Sounds like a winner to me! (I was going to recommend the Stanley Tucci show, but I knew you’d be all over it already! I recently finished the last season of “Call My Agent” and want to thank you for recommending it. I LOVED it and have passed along the recommendation to many people.)
That pineapple cardigan looks great on you! But I get it when something doesn’t feel exactly right. However….it’s on it’s way to me!!!
Hi Susan,
I’ve had my eye on that camel Sezan polka dot tee and wondered how long it is? Do you think it would look good untucked?
Hi Stephanie, I think it would look fine untucked. It’s cut a bit full, so if you prefer a more fitted look, I’d advise sizing down. On me, the Small hits at my low hip.
Happy March Birthday wishes, Susan! Thank you for caring & sharing your lifestyle journey here. Your time’s valuable, & I appreciate it! Love connecting with you year-round. Celebrate all weekend!
Great items. They all suit you so well.
Greetje
Happy Belated Birthday, Susan!
Loved both the “pineapple” and “trench” looks on you – you just shined. However, I understand if the “pineapple” sweater didn’t hit all the buttons for you. I did not like the navy blazer on you – too dark and “formal.” Not your style or coloring since you’ve had your Red Leopard experience. Ever since RL, you have shine! Hoping the polka dot top comes back in stock in a medium; I LOVE it (even if it’s not really my color). Sometimes you’ve just got to have it! Keep celebrating!
Happy 64th, Susan. And thanks for the honest reviews – you ended up keeping the items I liked best, too (I keep reading reviews that J. Crew’s newest versions of the sweater blazers pill horribly as they’re no longer all wool- Sophie, Juliette and maybe this one you showed). Anyway, love your blog and your choices and reviews. Many happy returns – sometimes low-key birthdays are the best!
I forgot to respond yesterday, Happy Birthday!! Mine is the 15th; us March babies are SO special LOL! I love all of these outfits, looking good in them doesn’t hurt, you look fabulous!
Happy Birthday! Wishing you a great year ahead !!
Well, thanks a lot!!! I became so obsessed with the pineapple cardigan I drove to the nearest Anthropologie and bought it! (Curbside pickup, of course.) I am so excited!
Happy Belated Birthday, Susan! Thank you for all that you do. I really like the topper on you.
Susan ~
Happy belated birthday! I have been following your site for over a year now…..and you are truly an inspiration!! You have helped me not only to re-find my Spring palette, but to refine my style!
Thanks so much, Mick!
I like that pineapple sweater too, but the wide light colored band at the top of the thigh is not good for me.
With WFH I have more flexibility about when I can go out and I have been into a few shops mid-weekday, ones on my path to the grocery store. I’ve felt safe enough, everyone is following distancing guidelines -in my area people are pretty sheep-like in their conformity- but the dressing rooms are closed so if I buy something I’d have to return it, and I’m not going out THAT much. I have been sticking to my tried and true retailers whose sizing is reliable.
What I have on my list for this weekend is going through my closet to get my early Spring stuff back out. If I don’t find an ivory sweater that J Crew sweater is on my list. That shorter high-hip length is flattering to me.
I loved the pineapple sweater.,Do you know if Anthropologie has any promo codes. I’d like to order the sweater.
Hi Susan, I’m not seeing any current codes or discounts on this sweater. If it does get marked down, I’ll be sure to mention.
Happy birthday!
I just love the faux suede topper and linen t-shirt outfit. Your color journey is truly inspirational! Do you have any tips for how to move away from black? Do you think your color scheme would be different if you were working in an office? My office is business casual but in NYC and the thought of wearing yellows and corals to the office is outside my comfort zone. I haven’t had my colors done but I think that autumn colors suit me best.
Thanks, Kat! I think for office wear, it’s still important to build around a neutral foundation, but your best neutrals might be brown, navy, or gray instead of black.
Happy birthday! I love the cut of the Pineapple sweater but it’s not my color. Love the long jacket. I wanted to check out your makeup tutorial, but I’m still recovering from an accident I had (faceplanted into a chair, chin first, about six weeks ago after tripping on a bunched up rug) and I’ll wait till my wounds heal (just met with a plastic surgeon yesterday and already feeling more hopeful).
Happy birthday! I turn the same age later this year. The cardi is special.
Susan, Thanks again for modeling the pineapple sweater. It came today and its perfect. My husband agreed too.