Opinion Page: Product Follow-ups, Vol. XVIII

From time-to-time, I like to re-review that products that I’ve featured on this blog. It’s important to me that I don’t write glowing reviews about a product in a first post and then hide it if my opinion changed later. Also, it’s easy to love a product in month-one, if you still love it in month-twelve and re-buy it when it’s empty, that’s real recommendation.

So here are some product follow-ups.

I featured this Varley zip-up a few weeks ago, and then again on Instagram, when I wore it on a recent trip.  I love it more today than I did when I bought it.  The fabric is so soft.  I don’t even have an adjective for how soft.  It’s like wearing a hug.  

Also, the marl-oatmeal color is sublime.  Gorgeous in person; pairs well with any neutral or color.  The double-zip lets you style it in different ways.  And the pockets are large enough to be functional.

My only note is that it, like all Varley pieces, runs a little big.  Size guide said I was firmly in a medium. It feels roomy on, and I would have been happier in a small.  Otherwise I f**king love this thing.

As my Varley obsession continues (truly, the brand is sublime; just what we need post-pandemic, cool loungewear that feels sophisticated), I’m thinking about buying this oak-brown quarter zip.  I’m just obsessed with color and can’t stop thinking about it.

Looking for the Varley look at a lower price?  Amazon has some options.  I recommend sizing down in them unless you like the really oversized look.  Again, the site suggested a M.  I’m in an extra small.  The small was just too big, but probably wouldn’t have been if I were bustier.

I’ve been talking about this Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil, Moisturizing Sheer Lip Gloss since my MOH told me I needed to buy it.  I love it.  Finally, a gloss that doesn’t feel sticky and hydrates.  I wear soft mauve, but I will probably buy rosewood next.

Also, another friend was raving about Summer Fridays Lip Butter in Cherry looking just like Bonne Bell Dr. Pepper Lipsmackers, so I am literally headed to Sephora this afternoon to get it.  

The Natori Bliss bra was my #1 choice for three (?) years.  It was comfortable, pretty enough for a t-shirt bra, and easy to wear.  Then, I noticed that over time the jersey material on the cups crinkles.  Not badly, but in a way that may the bra look worn out before its time.  Recently, I switched to Natori’s Jacquard Underwire and it fixed the cup issue, while still giving me a comfortable fit and easy look.

Also, as the Instagram meme says: Moms before you buy your child another toy/outfit, remember that you need a new bra. 👀  Don’t forget to take care of your basic wardrobe needs, while taking care of kiddos.  Oh, and did I mention the bra is <$30?  Hot.  

Also, while we’re on the topic of underwear.  Post-pregnancy and stress weight gain (Ever eat your way through your problems?  Happened to me?), I needed a little smoothing action but I did not want to wear Spanx and be sucked in to kingdom come.  I bought these Knix CoreLove undies while pregnant, and they have been the best for lightly shaping to keep clothes flattering while I work my way through this growth period. Bonus, they’re also leak proof.

I bought this NYDJ Sculpt Her Blazer during the legislative session in 2023.  I needed a blazer that could go all day.  That could twist and move with me.  That didn’t restrict my ability to sit and type for hours, or run up stairs in a rush.  And this blazer was perfect for that.

Recently, I needed to wear a jacket on a day when I also needed to take Sloane somewhere, and this blazer kept me comfortable all day.  Pair it with any of their SculptHer pants for a comfortable suiting option.  Do note, however, the suit is ponte.  No one where I work ever noticed, but if you work in a white shoe firm or you have a really big day, you might elect to wear wool or another traditional material instead.

Have you bought something from the site recently?  Did you love it?  Not love it?  Leave your own reviews in the comments.

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