Weekend Reading 10.3.26: Fall Finds, Reader Favorites & What’s on My Radar

Last week we headed over to Vancouver Island to visit my brothers…I don’t see and hug them nearly enough. I’m usually fine on a large ferry, but this time, we decided to try the smaller, faster ferry, and it was a bad call for me.

The weather was stormy, and the water had good-sized swells. I hadn’t thought to bring seasickness pills, so I spent the entire 75 minutes white-knuckling the seat back in front of me. Never, ever again. Next time we’ll take the larger, slower ferry or a seaplane. Eric Javits sent me this special little hat, which I wasn’t planning to bring until I looked inside and saw it was water-resistant.

Question of the week

With Prime Big Deal Days happening Tuesday and Wednesday of this coming week, I’m curious about what you actually buy from Amazon. What are your best Amazon purchases? Fashion, beauty, home, travel, or something wonderfully mundane that makes your life easier.

Bestsellers of the week – what readers loved most:

• I mentioned these pull-on corduroys from Talbots in last week’s weekend reading, and they were an instant hit.
• I wasn’t the only one with bouclé ball caps on my radar. This one was a reader favorite this week, and the 30% off price certainly doesn’t hurt. I ordered Nightfall.
• This Bookworm scarf blew out the door!! It’s so fun.
• Royal purple is having a moment this fall, and this scarf is an easy way to work it into your wardrobe.
• It seems many of us are already thinking about colder weather. This packable down jacket was popular this week.
• Animal print is back in a big way, so I wasn’t surprised to see you gravitate toward this cheetah cashmere sweater. Cashmere does make everything more tempting.
• These pull-on kick flare jeans got lots of attention from you this week. Pull-on jeans that don’t actually look like pull-on jeans? I understand the appeal.
• Many of you picked up these wide-leg ponte pants, and I’m never surprised when a comfortable pant that still looks pulled together rises to the top.
• This Haden kettle is perfect for making a cup of tea and cozying up on the couch! If you don’t have one yet, you might like this one while it’s on sale.

On my radar:

• It’s been a while since I’ve tried Johnny Was, but I placed an order to try this Mixed Media Jacket and this Packable and Reversible Puffer. They are a bit boho and full of personality.
• I finally caved and ordered this Belfast trench. I’ve wanted one for a few years, and when I saw it in a true classic navy, I said yes! 
• I’ve been pleased with the Jones Road matte eyeshadows I’ve tried, so I’m tempted by their new Wide Awake Brightening Concealer. It promises hydration and brightening without settling into fine lines.
• We’re getting closer to boot season, and if you’re looking to invest in a good pair this fall, these three stood out to me. These Marc Fisher ankle boots have a classic shape and walkable block heel…these Frye riding boots are a timeless option now that tall boots are back in the mix…and these shearling-lined Vince boots look wonderfully cozy for colder days.
• As the weather gets colder and drier, my sensitive skin tends to get red and cranky. This Tata Harper Calming Crème is designed for sensitive, reactive skin, so I reordered it. My rosacea-prone skin loves it.
• I don’t do a lot of seasonal decorating, but I do enjoy a few subtle nods to fall around the house. This heather and wheat arrangement adds some autumn color without involving a single pumpkin, and I like the texture of these fluted flameless taper candles. These embroidered cotton napkins would be great for a Thanksgiving table and festive without feeling too overdone. I also spotted this slim indoor doormat, which is decidedly less exciting but very practical.

Highlights from the weekend sales:

• Bold earrings are definitely back for fall. I ordered these square ones from Jenny Bird, which I’ve had my eye on for a while. Their Friends & Family sale ends on Sunday, so you might also find pieces for gifting.is also on for only 4 days with up to 25% off sitewide. I also love this sculptural bracelet.
• Chico’s has 40% off 2 or more full-priced sweaters and 25% off everything else. I zeroed in on this sweater poncho because it’s a chic look that not everyone is wearing.
• Talbots is currently 40% off 1 item and 30% off everything else.
  • This black-and-white tweed shirt jacket would be an easy way to dress up jeans without reaching for a blazer. I also like this quilted mockneck jacket in Holiday Purple.
  • If your lounge or travel wardrobe has seen better days, these AirKnit wide-leg pants have a matching V-neck pullover.
  • Holiday parties will be here before we know it, and festive dressing doesn’t have to mean red, green, or sequins. These leopard satin pants would be fun with a simple black sweater, while this black taffeta skirt can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. I’d also put this faux-fur vest in the holiday category.
• I went hunting through the Nordstrom sale section and found a few things worth sharing.
  • These red Rothy’s loafers are similar to a pair I have and would be such a fun shot of color with all the brown and neutrals we’re seeing.
  • This Bernardo quilted puffer is a good-looking option if a winter coat is on your list. Bernardo makes nice quality outerwear, and coats are one of those things I’d much rather buy on sale. This suede jacket is a classic that’s an extra 20% off.
  • I also found these Kork-Ease booties in chocolate suede. Kork-Ease is a brand I look to for comfort, and that rich brown would freshen up jeans this fall.
• Jenni Kane Friends & Family sale is on, with 25% off. She doesn’t run many sales, so I’m taking advantage of this one. Sadly, I bought this sweater a few months ago at full price…but I love it.

In case you missed it this week:

• Utility Jackets for Women Over 50: What to Look For and How to Wear Them
• A Well Loved Edit for September
• 6 Fall Outfit Ideas from Nordstrom: New Styles, Easy Ways to Wear Them
• Monday Musings: So Much Life In Those Stitches

A little help with your fall shopping:

New fall clothes have a way of making everything already in our closets seem less interesting. Before you start adding to your cart, these guides are good ones to revisit.

• How to Read Clothing Labels And Spot Fabrics To Avoid
• Simple Steps to Declutter Your Wardrobe
• How to Shop For Investment Wardrobe Pieces

Have a great weekend!