Weekend Reading 10.31.26

Happy Weekend. It’s been a short week on the blog, but a full one in real life. My grandson is playing basketball on his school team, and we are thrilled to see him play. He’s also still doing fall Little League, and we are delighted to watch all the games, so it has been busy.

I’ve also been doing some try-ons and shopping for myself. I bought the coolest (for me) brocade jacket, and I’m so excited for it to arrive. Many jackets that are labeled brocade are actually just a print or a knit. This one is the real deal, so I hope I like it when I get it.

Weekend Reading 10.31.26

Question of the week:

Are you already doing some fall and winter shopping, or are you waiting for the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales? It seems like the sales start earlier every year, so I’m curious how everyone is approaching them. Are you shopping mostly online these days, or do you still enjoy going into stores?

Bestsellers of the week – what readers loved most:

• The Talbots Jacquard Lady Jacket in Moonlit Floral was a big hit with readers this week. I love the rich blue floral pattern and the slightly dressy feel of this jacket. It is a real jacquard, so I tried it on twice before deciding I needed it. Then they marked it down 30%, so I ordered it 🙂 These polished ponte pants are fabulous and fit like a dream.

• The Chico’s Juliet Wide Full Length Pants were another best seller. I’m happy to see full-length pants making a comeback because cropped lengths aren’t always the most practical choice when the weather turns chilly. These have a generous wide-leg shape, and I appreciate that Chico’s offers a shorter inseam.
• I shared my Frank & Eileen Bibi Barrel Leg Sweatpants in Camel in Monday Musings, and they’ve been a reader favorite this week. I own them in cream, but that color has sold out, so many of you have been snapping up the camel instead. I love the relaxed barrel leg shape, and the Triple Terry fabric is so comfortable.
• The J.Jill Scarf Sweater was another piece you loved this week. I’m a big believer in the power of a scarf to make a simple outfit more interesting, so I was intrigued by this sweater. Coordinating the scarf in advance is a clever idea.
• My Frank & Eileen Jacket cardigan has been a bestseller for 3 weeks in a row. It comes in lots of fun colors and has a nice fitted shape.

• So many of you loved the chartreuse color of the Lands’ End Wanderweight Packable Down Jacket I shared. Unfortunately, it’s almost sold out, but the tourmaline and aster pink are also available. Both would be such a cheerful pop of color on a dreary winter day.
• I had to laugh when I spotted the Birch Lane Red and Gold Holiday Wreath among your favorites this week. Some of you are already planning your Christmas decorating, while I’m still wondering where October went. I love traditional holiday decorations, and the red and gold ornaments mixed with pine cones give this wreath such a classic look.

On my radar:

• I have this Lo & Sons bag on its way to me, and I’m excited to see how it works out. I have several of their bags already and absolutely love them, especially for travel.
• I’ve been noticing more cozy, shearling-lined shoes lately, and these three caught my eye: the Marlowe Mule, James Loafer, and Birkenstock Boston Shearling Clogs. I tried on a few similar styles at Nordstrom recently, and I could definitely see myself wearing them. My feet are always happy to have a little extra cushioning and warmth.
• Chico’s has some pretty new arrivals that have me thinking about holiday dressing. The Shimmer Sweater Blazer and Shimmer Midi Party Skirt would be perfect for festive occasions, and the High Rise Trouser Jeans caught my eye for a dressier take on denim. I don’t have many occasions that call for getting all dolled up, but I still enjoy looking!
• Animal prints are everywhere in fashion this fall, and now they’re making their way into our homes. I spotted this rug and this one, and I love the idea of adding a little personality to a room this way. I’ve always considered animal print a neutral when done well, so why not put it on the floor?
• A few Quince new arrivals caught my eye. The Cotton Cashmere Crewneck Sweater sounds like the perfect cozy, lightweight layer, and their Ponte Pants, which I already own and love, now come in a wide-leg version. I’m also eyeing the Featherless Quilted Long Puffer Jacket in a festive red.

Highlights from the weekend sales:

• Talbots has added two new colors to their popular pull-on travel jeans, including Crescent Wash and this Ink shade. I know many of you love these jeans for their comfortable pull-on waistband, and it’s nice to have a few more options.
• The Sephora Savings Event has started, with 10–20% off depending on your membership tier using code ALLONSALE. One thing I’m picking up is the Tatcha Rice Wash Cream Cleanser, since Tatcha rarely goes on sale. It’s gentle, hydrating, and exfoliates without stripping moisture from mature skin. I’ve loved everything from this brand. I also bought this Sunday Fridays lip stain in Rosette, and I love it!!
• Lands’ End is offering 45% off your order plus free shipping on $50 or more with code SWEATER45. I’ve owned and loved their clothes for years, and I’ve rounded up my current favorites in my Lands’ End review. Be sure to read the comments, too. So many of you shared your own favorites, and there are some great recommendations in there!
• These Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Ultra Lite Rib Pajamas are on sale at Nordstrom. I’m a sucker for soft pajamas, and these look perfect for lazy mornings.
• I noticed these Vionic Winny Low Top Sneakers are on sale in two colors, and I’m loving the mix of brown shades.

In case you missed it this week:

• Monday Musings: Appreciating Her Style and Trusting Our Own
• My Frank & Eileen Review: Is It Worth the Price?

Little ways to add more style to your everyday outfits

Sometimes it’s the smallest details that make an outfit feel more interesting. A pretty scarf, a favorite piece of jewelry, or a brooch worn in an unexpected way can give even the simplest outfit a little personality. If you’re looking for ways to get more creative with what you already own, here are a few posts to inspire you.

• How to Wear Brooches After 50 and Make Them Look Modern
• How to Stylishly Tie and Wear Scarves
• How to Wear Jewelry Over 50 and Look Current

I’ve done more window shopping and actual shopping in the last week than the last month. Are you shopping for holiday outfits?