Weekend Reading 10.24.26

Happy weekend, ladies. I pulled out my new Lands’ End jacket and realized the color isn’t quite as scary as I thought. I layered it over a blue tee, and the colors actually work pretty well together. It’s a great weight for this time of year and packs down to nothing.

Jennifer Connolly wearing a lime-green packable jacket from Lands' End, paired with white barrel-leg sweatpants, a blue tee, and Adidas Tokyo sneaker for Weekend Reading 10.24.26
PACKABLE JACKET – S / BARREL LEG SWEATPANTS – S / ADIDAS TOKYO SNEAKERS / SIMILAR TEE SHIRT

I noticed some of my blogging pals are sending out reader questionnaires. Is there anything you want to tell me? 😂 There’s a Little League game this weekend, and I’m thrilled I won’t be hiding under an umbrella trying to survive blistering hot weather.

Weekend Reading 10.24.26

Question of the week

I’m curious about what you’re buying for yourself these days. Have you treated yourself to anything lately, or is there something you’ve had your eye on but haven’t quite talked yourself into buying? I’d love to hear what’s on your personal wish list.

Bestsellers of the week – what readers loved most:

  • The Talbots Straight Leg Jeans in Presley Wash got lots of attention after my recent post on straight-leg jeans. They’re a classic style that won’t look dated by next season, which is always a plus in my book.

  • This affordable Sequin Skirt was a huge bestseller this week, so I guess more of you ladies have holiday events than I thought! Would you like to see more options?

  • Several of you picked up the Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pants after I included them in my alternatives-to-leggings post. They’re still on sale, so it’s a good time to take another look if you’ve been considering them.

  • I was happy to see these Aerosoles Over Drive Loafers were a hit with you this week. I’m always on the lookout for shoes that are stylish without making my feet miserable, and these caught my eye. They’re a great price at Nordstrom Rack and come in wide widths, too.

  • Apparently, we all appreciate a comfortable pair of pants because the Lands’ End Sport Knit High Rise Pants were another big seller. They’re the kind of easy, everyday pants that earn their keep in a wardrobe.

On my radar:

  • I love my Thigh Society Cooling Shorts under dresses and skirts, and I’ll even wear them under jeans. They prevent chafing and make clothes more comfortable without the squeeze of shapewear. I’m totally smitten with this Calla Lily Brooch. It’s so unique and pretty.

  • Tapestry is very popular this fall, and I’ve been looking for a nice little jacket for weeks. I really liked how this one looked at Talbots, but I’m still looking because I’d like it a bit longer. I haven’t owned anything tapestry for many, many years, and it feels like it’s time. This one is stunning and longer.

  • After the recent Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, I got curious about what they’re selling these days and took a quick look at their website. This sleep bra caught my eye. It’s designed to wear to bed, but I think it would be just as nice for lounging around the house. I also spotted these Ugg slippers that may be mine!

  • I was browsing Anthropologie and came across this Maeve Rue Velvet Blazer. It’s available in a stunning lilac mist and chocolate, which are such fun alternatives to the usual holiday reds and greens.

  • I always enjoy seeing what’s new at Eileen Fisher, and a few pieces from her latest collection stood out.
    • I’m intrigued by this crinkled satin bubble-hem skirt. Bubble hems are making a comeback, and I like Eileen Fisher’s more understated version. I’d pair it with a soft cashmere sweater and simple flats.
    • This silk charmeuse shirt is exactly the sort of piece I gravitate toward for the holidays. I love that it feels special without being overly dressy, and I’d wear it long after the decorations are packed away.
    • I have a weakness for velvet this time of year, so naturally, this velvet band-collar shirt caught my eye. I’d wear it with dark jeans and let the rich texture do all the work.

  • Tommy Bahama isn’t a brand I usually browse once summer is over, but curiosity got the better of me, and I found a few things I really like in their new arrivals.
    • This Darcy Jeweled 3/4-Sleeve Dress caught my eye for the holiday season. I love the jeweled neckline because it eliminates the need to fuss with a necklace. Just add earrings and you’re dressed.
    • I like just a hint of shimmer this time of year, and this Opal Shore Shimmer Crewneck Sweater has just the right amount.
    • I’m always looking for comfortable layers that don’t feel sloppy, and this Aruba Cozy Cord Knit Jacket looks like it fits the bill. I especially like the corded texture, which gives it a little personality.

Highlights from the weekend sales:

  • It’s been a while since I’ve shared much from J.Jill. But I saw that they are having their friends and family event with 30% off everything.
    • I love the subtle herringbone pattern, and the soft knit looks much more comfortable than traditional tailored pants.
    • Scarf sweaters are everywhere this fall, and this is a pretty version of the trend. I like the idea of having the scarf already coordinated with the sweater. One less thing to fuss with in the morning.
    • This classic wool-blend coat in charcoal is the sort of winter investment piece I love. It’s timeless, goes with just about everything, and won’t look dated in a few years.

  • Ruggable is having a Hosting Sale with 30% off, so I ordered this holiday doormat. I intend to put it in front of my kitchen sink since it’s washable. I don’t normally do cheesy patterns, but this is cute, and I know my grandsons will get a kick out of it. My husband liked this one, but we just got a new kitchen rug and don’t have a spot for it.

In case you missed it this week:

Have a great weekend!

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45 Comments

  1. I meant to respond yesterday, but the day got away from me! The citrine jacket is great…I think I may have to try that color. I am looking for a charcoal grey cashmere cardigan. It has been harder than I thought because all shades of brown are the popular color this year. I am also planning to try the Margaux Salamanca flat. I have wide ,tricky feet, but keep reading Margaux are comfortable. What is your experience with this brand? Lastly, I would like some guidance on beauty and skin care routines. Would you share your daily routine? I am looking for simple make up tips.

    1. I am due to share my beauty routine, so I’ll start working on that post. Yes, the wides are great in Margaux. I tend to go up a size these days so I can add my arch supports. Charcoal grey is one of my favorite colors.

  2. Katherine says:

    I love seeing you in color!

  3. I’m a sweater gal, so this fall I have hunted for reasonable priced cashmere. I added a black crew neck from Quince and a red crew neck from Macys. I added a cotton cashmere scarf and sweater set from JJILL in French espresso. I also added two pairs of loafers ( one black and one burgundy) to fill out some shoes I sent away. So just looking to fill in basics to what I already have and love to wear. Oh, I did add the cheetah print denim pants from Chicosfor fun. Love these pants and the black and the red sweaters look great with them.

  4. The outfit with the citrine jacket looks so fresh and contemporary! The tee’s color really sets off the citrine. Looks great on you. Love the cool pants. As I like petites also, were those Frank and Eileen pants at the right length out of the box, or did you need to shorten them?

  5. Hi,
    I did treat myself to the LE blazer sweater that you showed. Love it! Got it in the gray color. The other item I have my eye on, is the Talbot’s boot cut velveteen pants in the burgundy color.

  6. Pauline Rohr says:

    Jennifer, I would like your assessment of the Adidas Tokyo sneakers. I like the look, but I wonder about the amount of cushion and their comfort level.

    1. They’re comfy right out of the box, but I added a cushioning insole with arch support to mine, so they’re very comfy.

  7. That green jacket is stunning on you, especially with the blue shirt underneath. I bet you turned heads wearing that outfit! As for myself, I have recently bought several vests and scarves. I am having fun putting together outfits using the new vests & scarves with shirts and pants I already own. Every time I get a compliment I smile because these new outfits cost very little to put together, and I am making use of older items in my closet.

  8. Hello! So, what have I bought lately? I love J Jill. I recently bought a black and off white marled sweater, a quarter zip pullover, check pants….. Hummm, probably more! Yesterday, you wore Quince ponte pants. You wrote that you had a size L. Well…..if you needed a L, I decided I needed XL. They are expected to arrive Monday, so we’ll see if they fit.
    I really need to slow down with buying though. I’m going to retire at the end of June, and won’t need so much.

  9. Lucretia Roletta says:

    The jacket looks chartreuse on my iPad. It’s vibrant and eye-catching! Looks fab on you !

  10. Love the blue tee with the green jacket! I wouldn’t have thought to put those together, but it looks great on you! Really like those barrel leg sweatpants, too. Haven’t seen that style in a sweatpant before. Would need a less expensive style than what you are showing. They are really fun!

  11. My favorite fall purchases so far are my Birkenstock suede clogs and Athleta forever fleece quarter zip.
    Keeping my eye out for some holiday appropriate tops that go with jeans. I enjoy a very casual wardrobe.
    Thanks for continuing to post fashion finds appropriate for women of a certain age.

    1. I just bought a new pair of those Birkenstock suede clogs. They’re what I reach for when my feet are complaining. I like the fur-lined ones.

  12. I love that lime green. It’s actually in the winter palette. I love it with royal blue, navy, and white, as well as other brights. The Seattle NFL team has some pretty cool uniform combos with lime! And I find a lightweight puffer indespensible, from 50 degrees to upper 30s and as a liner under other coats when it’s colder. One comes on every trip from September to May. Mine are older versions from Uniglo but the lime is tempting. When I walk my dog, esp when it’s dark in the mornings, I want to be seen!

  13. Love the green jacket, love the whole outfit. I’ve been eyeing Frank & Eileen set like your navy and DERRY Jean. Have my heart set on a denim dress. While cost per wear may be great, big upfront expense just for one piece so I’m still mulling. 🙂
    I’ve also been looking at that same quince cotton boxy sweater. Please let us know about fit.
    BTW….barrel shape may not be your fav but they look great.
    Enjoy your weekend!

  14. I bought this coat on your recommendation and love the color and weight of it! I plan to wear it to a Seahawk game this fall. The color is perfect!

  15. I just bought the same packable jacket in two colors in petite. I live in that type of jacket! I also got a similar one at Uniglo. I usually buy three styles, jacket, vest, and coat, and I layer them when I travel. Washing/ drying/ packing, is a breeze!

    1. Uniqlo makes great ones! I have one I love to leave in my car in case I guess the weather wrong for a Little League Game.

  16. The citrine jacket looks awesome 👏

  17. Love the jacket!! I know you prefer neutrals, but that green looks amazing on you. Enjoy your weekend!

      1. I bought it last year in lavender and I love it! So light weight but warm. I splurged on another no iron shirt from Landsend in a very holiday plaid of red, a little blue and white. I love these very soft no iron shirts.

  18. I think your green jacket is adorable, fun, and cheerful!

  19. Daneen Hirbe says:

    Once again when I click on a certain item to purchase, I only get pictures of your week in review. I don’t get the item I want. Don’t know if it is my iPad or your program. I was looking for the aero sole driving loafers this time. 🤔

  20. I’ve been thinking about buying a poncho this year. I’ve never owned one but I’m seeing them everywhere and they are perfect for fall. Do you have any suggestions for fabric or style that is age appropriate?

  21. Happy Weekend! I’m currently shopping for a chocolate brown sweater, preferably all cotton, but I might consider cashmere too. I ordered the boxy cotton crewneck from Quince, and the color was exactly what I wanted. Unfortunately, it was too big & now it seems that color is gone. Their exchange policy is easy, so I’m waiting for the lighter brown color in a small. Maybe it will work! Still going to keep hunting for a chocolate brown one though. Thanks for mentioning the Talbots sale going on now. I really love their T by Talbots line, especially the AirKnit stretch pieces. The fabric is magically soft, washes & dries perfectly without the weird stains that some soft fabrics get, the pants have pockets, and I find that the indigo & black colors tend to always match when new pieces come out. So, I’m looking at that this weekend too.

  22. Good Morning Jennifer: Love the green jacket and with the t-shirt. I’ve had my eye on several jean jackets and just can’t find the time nor gumption to figure it out. My current jacket is simply too stiff and I feel like I can’t move in it. I was at Nordstrom a couple days ago and didn’t feel like walking clear across the mall to try the Tommy Bahama. What are your suggestions for a wearable jean jacket?

  23. I actually love your new jacket with the blue T-shirt! I wouldn’t wear it with the white pants, but I think blue jeans would be a natural.

    What I’m looking for lately: I will be at a large conference the first week of December. People tend to dress casually in the evenings with a little bit of glitter as an ode to the holidays, but not traditional “Christmas sweaters!” I am by far the oldest person in our group and so I’m looking for things that fit the vibe but don’t look like I’m stuck in my 80s sweaters. I love starting out this early looking so that I can find the just the right thing.

  24. I like to keep my eyes on pants and jeans, because those take the most wear. I’ve bought nothing and likely won’t. Why have some retailers eliminated 30″ inseams?

  25. That jacket is a great color! I can see it with grey and black, as well as blue. Statement piece to brighten the dreary months!