July – August Most Loved Finds

I love seeing other bloggers do these monthly round-ups on what readers are loving the most, but I admittedly haven’t done many since it’d look pretty repetitive! Much of the same items appear on the EP top list month after month, and most of them are more simple, neutral basics.

I pulled July reader favorites and sure enough, there’s several familiar “oldies but goodies” along with a few new updated versions of prior year looks. It looks like you guys are leaning in to the wider leg looks, natural fibers like 100% linen and cotton (Quince + Gap have had such good, reasonably-priced options), and comfy shoes that are actually made for walking!

1. A+F Short Sleeve Cardigan

Lady sweater jackets have been the best thing for getting dressed quickly and looking polished. I mentioned in my last post that the original J.Crew Emilie cardigan with a slim fit – an EP top fave – has sadly been discontinued. I ordered the slouchier remake and actually really love it with the sleeves folded up, but it’s a totally different look to me! If you love the slim fit of the original Emilie, then A&F has a pretty similar option in long sleeves too.

I shared the short sleeve A&F version last month and it has a slightly cropped, boxier modern fit that is quite versatile – I’ve worn it with straight leg jeans (see the xxs on me) and it also looks great paired with a black or tweed short skirt, tailored shorts, and longer trouser pants.

2. Quince Crepe Shorts

No surprise these made it to last month’s list! These have become my uniform this summer for their comfort, polished look and versatility. I recently shared 8 ways to style these shorts with sneakers, slingbacks and flats. The elastic back makes them comfy for all day wear and the stretch crepe stays pretty wrinkle-free. They’re also machine washable (I just hang dry afterwards). As an FYI, I did mention I’m getting pilling on my shorts where my handbag rubs, which I hope to tackle with a pilling shaver.

3. Gap split hem Sweater

I have not tried this year’s version yet, but I own last year’s in XS petite and it’s nice quality especially for the sale price. Mine is a classic 100% cotton striped knit with a loose and swingy, oversized fit – I especially love the sides! Based on the reviews for this year, it looks like it still runs big. I fold up the sleeve cuffs once on the petite, and like pairing it with slimmer bottoms like the Ann Taylor Audrey crop (size up) or slim straight jeans, loafers or flats. The side slits give it an effortless feel and also looks cute over leggings and sneakers.

If you’re shopping at Gap, they’re having a big sale so I also want to point out their denim jackets. This womens cropped denim bomber looks super cute, and their kids relaxed fit denim jackets seem like a great alternative to my beloved Levi’s 90s trucker jacket, but in smaller sizing smaller-framed petites! I see several adults reviewing the kids versions, like the Doen x Gap girls jacket. The relaxed fit denim jacket has been a game changer for my “mom on the go” outfits and makes everything feel a little more laid-back chic.

Randomly, the kids also asked me for jeans. After trying a bunch of brands, the winners were these soft wide leg girls jeans for Nori + these loose toddler boys jeans for Rio, both with easy pull-on waists!

4. Good American Jeans

See my try on video. Much of the denim I’ve been sharing this past year is non stretch (ie. Madewell, Levi’s, most A&F) so if you like higher stretch jeans, these are soo flattering and comfortable with some shaping power.

These are supposed to be a cropped style but fit full length on me with flats, and they are wide but not too wide. My usual size 00 did fit (great for a 24” waist) but for my 25” waist I was a little more comfortable in a size up. Size 0 measures 12.25” across the waist, 10” rise, 26” inseam. I can’t wait to show these more styled into Fall!

5. BP $15 Sunnies

These continue to be a huge favorite from 1-2 years ago, and I love them so much I have both black and brown with backups for my car. They’re very lightweight with a designer-inspired shape, and don’t slip down my face. I’ve seen both colors restocked often – check the site in the mornings!

6. Madewell Perfect Vintage Jeans

These have consistently made it to the reader favorites list for what feels like at least half a year now! They’re are in my top 3 most worn jeans and now also come in a full length version (see on me).

The cropped wide leg are great to style with flats, wedges, or a low heel. I take a 24 petite which measures 12.7” across waist, 9.5” rise, 24” inseam. I also have them in the “vintage canvas” ecru color, which has a slightly higher rise in the same size. If you’re like me and love a true high rise, my one complaint about Madewell jeans is that their petite high rise isn’t as high as I’d like. One alternative is to buy the regular sizing for the longer rise, and then cut the hems.

7. Dolce Vita flats

Another piece that’s been on the monthly reader fave list since April! The shape and style still feels modern and chic for me heading into Fall. I’ve worn these with jeans, slip skirts, dresses, shorts – you name it. I’ve shared a couple of similar styles that are lower-priced (Target, Nordstrom) but, if budget allows, I think the DV are worth it. If you’re between half sizes, I would size up.

8. Quince Linen dress

See my try-on video. This was probably the top shopped item by you guys in July, with solid navy, black, and stripes being the top colorways. This is an understated, elegant 100% linen dress that’s a longer midi/maxi length on me (5 ft.). Quince XS is hit or miss for me (half the time being too big), but I found the xs in this dress to be petite-friendly in proportions. The straps are adjustable with a slightly smocked back and it has a full cotton lining. Because it’s double layered, I usually go braless or wear nippies.

9. Kenneth Cole Gentle Souls

Back from last Fall, these were your most bought item from the Nordstrom sale last month! When I find a comfortable shoe that works for Boston sidewalks and keeps my ankles warm in cold weather, I go hard in multiple colors.

Fit wise, I’d size up if between sizes. I’m usually a 5 or 5.5, and went up to 5.5 since the front toe felt a little narrow. These have a cushioned insole, flexible rubber outsole, and a slim stretchy ankle shaft that works perfectly tucked under jeans and pants or with tights. Note: this boot comes out in new iterations each year with a different style name, which is confusing, but I’ve found them to all be extremely similar. My 3 pairs from last year all have a different name (ie. Ella boot) but look, fit and feel nearly the same.

Let me know if you own anything from this top list, or if you have another favorite buy from this year!