Weekend Reading 10.17.26

I never tire of travel, so we’ve begun planning where to go for our upcoming 49th anniversary. Our trip to Singapore and Bali last year convinced me that checking a bag for longer holidays can work, so long as I have a decent-sized carry-on in case my luggage goes on a holiday of its own.

This Bric’s Expandable Checked Bag came home with me from Vancouver at the end of the summer. I don’t need it there, so I loaded it with linen and cotton to bring back to California. Just as we were thinking it’s too pretty to get beat up on luggage carousels and tossed into the underbelly of a plane…we discovered it came with a heavy-duty plastic cover that’s easy to Velcro on and off. It wheels like a dream and looks beautiful, so I’m anxious to take it on its maiden voyage.

We’ve been tossing around ideas, and the Amazon is appealing, as is a cruise around Japan. Of course, a safari is near the top of our wish list. The trouble is, every time we discuss it, the list gets longer. Have you taken a trip you’d happily do all over again? I’d love to hear where.

Weekend Reading 10.17.26

Question of the week

I know it seems early, but holiday shopping will be here before we know it! Who’s on your gift list this year? Grandchildren, husbands, friends, or someone who’s impossible to shop for? Would you like me to share some gift ideas? Tell me in the comments who you’re shopping for and who’s giving you the most trouble

Weekend Bonus: Chico’s Try On

I stopped into Chico’s recently to see what was new and couldn’t resist taking a few things into the dressing room. They’re also having a sale right now, with $20 off $125 or more, or $50 off $200 or more, so the timing is good if you spot something you like.

I’ve always been fond of sweater blazers, so I was happy to see this double-breasted version at Chico’s. The olive green is a wonderful neutral for fall, and I like how it looks with these gray jeans instead of my usual blue denim. I added a simple V-neck pullover underneath and wore my own platform sneakers.

I’m always drawn to a crisp white shirt, and this no-iron stretch version is right up my alley. I love the look of a freshly pressed shirt, but I’d rather not spend my afternoon ironing one. I paired it with the black Juliet wide-leg pants for a classic black-and-white combination. The fuller leg gives the outfit a modern feel.

I love mixing shades of navy, and this combination has some nice details. The Passport Blue no-iron stretch shirt is a great layering piece, and I wore it open over a foiled microfiber tank. The tank has a subtle sheen and soft, stretchy fabric that makes it comfortable under a shirt or jacket. I paired them with these refined pull-on wide-leg jeans, which are made from soft-stretch twill denim with a faux fly and angled front pockets.

I liked the olive double-breasted sweater blazer so much that I tried it in black, too. I layered it over the Travelers rhinestone tank for a little sparkle and added the faux leather Juliet slim pants. They have a comfortable pull-on waistband and built-in So Slimming technology. I could see wearing this to a casual holiday party with different shoes.

Bestsellers of the week – what readers loved most:

• My recent Lands’ End post was so popular, and I loved reading all of your suggestions in the comments! There are clearly some longtime Lands’ End fans among us. The pieces you shopped most were the Drifter Ribbed Collared Blazer Sweater, Oversized No Iron Tunic with Statement Collar, and Sport Knit High Rise Pants.
• This portable charcuterie board with a lid was another reader favorite this week. It’s such a practical idea for taking cheese, crackers, and other nibbles to a gathering without worrying about everything sliding around in the car.
• So many of you gravitated toward the Frank & Eileen Jackie in White Triple Terry this week. I’m a longtime fan of their soft, comfortable fabrics.
• These flats were one of your favorites this week. I love how fun and comfortable they are, but the lining makes them a bit snug so make sure to order one size up.
• These Talbots Stretch Corduroy Pull-On Pants have been on the bestseller list for most of October. I love the soft texture of corduroy for fall and the pull-on waistband. They’re currently 30% off so now’s the time to order and try them.
• I was happy to see the Open Diamond Wrap Ring from Ring Concierge among this week’s bestsellers. I’ve always loved jewelry that’s a little different from the usual, and this ring’s open design really appeals to me. It’s delicate enough for everyday wear but still has plenty of sparkle.

On my radar:

• Nordstrom has opened its Holiday Gift Shop, and I have to say they’ve done a wonderful job with it this year. They’ve made it easy to browse gift ideas for everyone on your list, with plenty of options at different price points.
• I just spotted these 21″ Thigh Society Cooling “shorts” that will be fabulous under pants this winter. They also come in 17″, 12″, 9″, 7″, and 5″. I’m partial to my 7s, but under jeans, the 21 might feel great. I also noticed they just launched underwear!
• The evolvetogether Havana Restorative Lotion would make a lovely holiday or hostess gift. A good hand and body lotion is always welcome when the weather turns cooler, and the simple, elegant packaging makes it pretty enough to leave out on the counter. You can use code AWSL15 for 15% off.
• I love the idea of giving someone a little pampering, and this five-minute facial treatment would make the perfect gift or stocking stuffer under $40. Who couldn’t use five minutes to themselves and a little extra TLC for their skin?
• Wayfair has opened its holiday shop with everything you need to get ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving this year, they have a whole section of turkey prep essentials like this carving set and meat thermometer.
• Chappywrap released their new Holiday collection! They also released their seasonal shawls that look super cozy and sell out every year.

Highlights from the weekend sales:

• Athleta had a new fall collection out, and quite a few of their best-selling bottoms, along with some of their tops, are included in a sale they’re running.
  • I discovered Athleta’s Brooklyn pants many years ago and they’re on constant rotation in my wardrobe as much as the Endless. They’re great for working out, traveling, and everyday life. 
  • I also love their Move with Ease top. It comes in 13 colors and is available in regular, tall, and petite sizes.
• Anthropologie has 30% off clothing and accessories, which rarely happens. Take a look at their jeans and accessories!
• Talbots is having its Friends & Family Sale with 30% off, and I noticed a lot of their holiday and special occasion pieces are including:
  • Embellished Crewneck Sweater: This reminds me of the gray sparkle sweater that was a recent bestseller with readers. Just enough embellishment to make it special without going overboard.
  • Velvet Wide-Leg Pull-On Pants: I love the idea of comfortable velvet pants for dinners out and special occasions.
  • Burnout Velvet Skirt in Prosperous Florals: This is the sort of skirt you could keep in your closet for years and dress up with sweaters and tops you already own.
  • Faux-Fur Collar Puffer Vest: This vest is always a hit with readers, and it’s back this year in new colors. I like that the faux-fur collar is removable, so you get two different looks from one piece.
• Ruggable Deck The Floors For Less Sale is on, with up to 25% off. This one is so, so pretty.
• Rothy’s has its clogs on sale for up to 25% off through October 19, and they’re worth a look if you love an easy slip-on shoe. I could see wearing them as house shoes!

In case you missed it this week:

• Fall Shoe Trends for Women Over 50: What I’d Wear and Skip in 2026
• Lands’ End Review: My Take on Their Quality, Fit, and Value
• Monday Musing: Enjoying Where We Are

Have a great weekend!