In our Private Facebook Group, I asked you what retailers you wanted to see in our What to Buy at series, and Talbots was at the top of the list.
In this series, I shop our reader’s favorite retailers’ new arrivals and round up the best options to help build out your wardrobe.
Talbots is tricky. It has a particular look, so the same advice you hear from me applies here: avoid mannequin shopping.
Why is mannequin shopping such a no-no?
Stores like Talbot’s, Ann Taylor, LOFT, J.Crew, etc., all adhere to a certain look. It’s what makes them popular and reliable. But you run the risk of looking like the BRAND and not YOURSELF when you wear them head-to-toe.
Since our goal is to help you create a chic and modern wardrobe on a regular person budget, these posts are designed to highlight the best options that will add value to your closet.
Basically, it’s what I would put in your fitting room if we were shopping together.
Style
Scatter throughout Talbot’s inventory are some real head-scratchers. Maybe we could all get together and agree that no one over the age of four needs a sweatshirt covered in birds or a butterfly embroidered tee shirt?
Many of their prints and color selections lack sophistication, so avoid them. Also, some of their cuts are a bit dated.
That said, they offer a solid selection of basics, like bottoms, dresses, or button-downs. And, as you’ll see below, a few gems that will elevate your style.
Below are my top picks of Talbot’s new arrivals, a combination of classic pieces with a little bit of a twist.
Sizing and Fit
Where Talbots doesn’t get credit is in their long-standing commitment to size inclusiveness. They have been offering a full-size range for years. So almost every item is available in missy, petite, plus, and plus-petite.
Regarding fit, they run full depending on where you typically shop. For example, if you wear an 8 in J.Crew, you are probably a 6 in Talbots.
What to Buy a Talbots
Right now, everything is an additional 25% at checkout. All most all items featured are available in Regular, Petite, Plus and Plus-Petite. Sizes run full.
Knit Blazer
Knit Blazer, $159
We love a knit blazer around here. It gives you the polish of a structured layer and the comfort of a cardigan.
Available in Missy, Petite, Plus, and Plus Petite in four colors.
Tweed Grosgrain Jacket
Tweed Grosgain Jacket, $189
I ordered this grosgrain jacket to pair with dark jeans and heels for spring. It has a very Tory Burch feel at a better price and more inclusive sizes.
Available in Missy, Petite and Plus from a 00 – 24.
Button Shoulder Tee
Cotton Button Shoulder Tee, $60
We all know I love a stripe, AND I’m always looking for simple yet chic tops you can pair with black bottoms. Between the boldness of the stripe and the buttons on the shoulder, this tee is a winner that will take you anywhere. Especially as offices reopen and embrace more casual dress, wear this with black ankle pants and flats for the perfect business casual look for spring.
Available in Missy, Petite, Plus and Plus-Petite
Faux Wrap Crepe Blouse
And speaking of winners, this faux wrap blouse is gorgeous. Throw this on with dark jeans, black pants or even your faux leather leggings for drinks with friends or a grown-up date night out. You can dress it up or down with accessories and wear it at least three seasons.
Available in Missy, Petite, Plus and Petite-Plus.
Cotton Bateau Neck Tee
Bateau Neck Tee, $45
This classic went right in my cart. It’s a lovely option if the Boden Brenton doesn’t work for you.
Available in Missy, Petite, Plus and Plus-Petite.
Embroidered Tunic
Embroidered Tunic, $109
Every summer I struggle to find cute swim coverups that I can wear to our pool. I need something that is practical, but feels finished so when the kids settle we can grab lunch and attempt to socialize. This tunic is ideal for a weekend poolside.
Talbots partnered with Cabana Life and offers a fun selection of cover-ups that combine style with sun protection.
Limited sizes from XS – XL.
* Note – Cabana Life sizing is different from traditional Talbots sizing. I ordered a large in this.
Jersey Tie Front Sheath Dress
Jersey Tie Front Sheath Dress, $119
I can’t NOT mention a side-tie jersey dress. It’s just a workhorse in your wardrobe this time of year. From springtime holidays, to warmer weather events, shower, even for the office. I’m featuring it in the blue (above) and it’s also available in black.
With the additional 25% off, this dress is under $100.
This will be long on many of you, but don’t let that prevent you from giving it a try. A simple hem to the top of or above your knee (depending on where you are comfortable) is all you’ll need.
Available in Missy, Petite, Plus and Petite-Plus.
Crinkle Cotton Beach Coverup
Crinkle Cotton Beach Coverup, $90
I bought this too. I know, but coverups that feel like an outfit are hard to find!
This preppy gingham option looks like a sweet dress you would find from a place like Draper James, but, again, at a better price.
Available in Missy only, from XS – XL.
Double V-Neck Terry Dress
Double V-Neck Terry Dress, $90
When you’re sick of jeans, don’t want to wear shorts and you’ve retired your capris, simple and soft dresses become a go-to in the warmer weather. This terry dress is lovely for every day wear, with a pair of casual sandals, sneakers or ballet flats.
Available in Missy and Petite up to an XL.
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Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.
Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail.
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