2017 Reader Survey Results

Greetings, friends! Today I’m excited to reveal the results of my reader survey.

First of all, thanks again to all who took the time to fill out my reader survey! This year there were over 2000 participants. That is crazytown. I’m blown away and humbled. Thank you so much.

I know it was a bit lengthy, but I really do appreciate the input. It will be a big help as I plan my content for the next year and filter through the brand partnerships and opportunities that come through.

I always like to share the results of my reader surveys in case you’re interested, and also to address some of the comments that came up. I truly appreciate everyone keeping their comments kind and constructive. I know it’s crazy that I have to ask that, but trust me, I’ve had some doozies of comments over the years in these surveys, and I find that if I make this request, people really do try to be more helpful than hateful.

Because it’s so long and some of the graphs are hard to see, I’m going to skip over some of the questions, but I’ll try to hit the highlights.

READER SURVEY RESULTS

How long have you been reading my blog?

I’m so pleased to see that almost 70% of you have been hanging around for a few years. That’s quite a compliment.

How did you discover my blog?

The vast majority found me from another blog, which is cool. I’m also excited to see some coming from Pinterest and Google and sticking around.

How do you usually get to my blog?

Email subscribers are definitely the majority on this one! If you aren’t signed up to get my emails, you’re welcome to do that HERE. I have a daily and a weekly option. The daily one is more personal, and I usually write a newsy note along with the link to my latest post.

On what device(s) do you usually read my blog?

I know statistics show people are using mobile devices more and more but this stat still astounds me. I really should pay more attention to how my site looks on mobile! (I still read most blogs on my desktop computer, but I guess I do click over from Facebook on my iPhone sometimes.)

What is your age range?

These results are very similar to last year’s, and if anything, my readership is getting a little older. Well, I guess we all are. Ha! But I do find it fascinating that over 75% of my readers are older than I am. It’s definitely helpful to know this and keep that in mind as I choose clothing and brands to feature.

What is your stage in life?

Clearly most of you are married with kids or grandkids, but certainly not everyone. Also, interesting to me, is that 50% of you work outside the home. Since I share so many casual looks, I’m always a bit surprised by that, but then again, with our average age being around 50 and less than half of us having kids at home, it makes sense that a large majority would work.

Where do you live?

I’m not surprised that the vast majority of you are in the U.S., but I love that so many other countries are represented as well. The internet is pretty cool, isn’t it?

How relevant to you and your shopping habits are the range of price points I offer?

I’m glad to see that the blue section went from 57% in 2016 to 64% in 2017. I will continue to incorporate lower priced pieces and offer similar options, but I also encourage you to consider investing in some higher end pieces because I do believe it’s better to have fewer quality pieces that you love than a bunch of cheaper clothes that aren’t as flattering and don’t feel as good on… but it must always be within the confines of your budget. I would never want to encourage you to spend outside of your means.

This is one reason why I try to share the sales as much as I do, but if those are still too much, don’t rule out local consignment and thrift stores as well as online consignment stores like Tradesy and ThredUp and off-price retailers like TJ Maxx and Saks Off Fifth. Hopefully the information I share about quality brands is helpful as you navigate those retailers.

Where do you shop?

I always find this section interesting. Last year LOFT was #1, and this year Nordstrom is #1, but they’re always in the top two. I do get some people in the results saying I do too much Nordstrom, but others thanked me for introducing them to it and asked to keep it up because it’s so easy to order and return what doesn’t work for them.

I did also have some asking for more LOFT, but honestly, I have a hard time with them. I don’t always love their styles, and they do charge for shipping and returns so it gets costly for me to buy, model, return.

It seems as though a lot of you like shopping for clothes at Target and Kohl’s, and I had some requests for more of that. I really struggle to find clothes I like that fit well at Target and Kohl’s, but I’ll keep trying!

I’m glad to see Bloomingdale’s making an appearance, although it is way down on the list. I did get a few people thanking me for introducing them to it in the comment section of the survey. I have always liked shopping at Bloomies, and while they don’t carry some of the lower priced brands that Nordstrom does, they have a great selection of premium denim and shoes and handbags. I actually think they run better sales than Nordstrom, and their Lloyalist program is better than Nordstrom Rewards. Plus, they have Shoprunner for free 2-day shipping and free returns. All that to say, I’m going to be linking to them more this year and hope to make some more converts.

Which social networks are you most active on?

This one doesn’t surprise me much, as most women ages 45-65 are on Facebook. I really would like to make better use of that platform in 2018. I’m also glad to see that half of you are on Instagram! YAY! Instagram is my favorite. It’s so pretty, and generally drama free. And for those of you who don’t like your friends to see what you’re liking and commenting on with Facebook, you can like and comment on Instagram without the privacy concerns.

If you use Instagram, do you watch Instagram Stories?

Since seeing these results, I’ve been trying to use Instagram Stories more. It really is a fun way to connect, and I love that it doesn’t have to be pretty. I just have a hard time remembering to use it sometimes.

Which of my current topics do you enjoy the most?

I don’t have anything to add to this, but I thought y’all might to see the results. I don’t see myself changing much about my content in the next year. It will be more of the same mish-mosh of all of the above! Maybe some more beauty posts… that is a goal of mine.

Do you enjoy the Fashion Friday Linkup?

I’ve debated laying this to rest for some time, but given these results, I think I’ll keep it for another year. I have had other bloggers thank me for it, and it seems like they find it useful, and it’s a fun way to stay connected with others doing what I’m doing and share the love a bit.

Okay, so now for some of the more long form answers and comments I’d love to address.

I started out trying to respond to all of the comments/questions/suggestions I could, and this post started to get so long that I realized I better cut a bunch out or divide it up into a few posts. I don’t want to beat a dead horse with survey results either, so I think I’m going to share my Instagram and Facebook thoughts and comments and reactions another day this week, and I will use the rest of this post to address those comments related to the blog. It’s still going to be kind of long, but again, I don’t want more than 2 posts of survey results.

So here are some questions I got or general input I’d like to respond to.

General Feedback Comments/Questions

I’m so used to answering every comment that it is really hard for me to pick and choose, but there was so much participation this year that I just have to not answer a lot of them. It pains me, truly. Please know that I read every. single. comment. I also made notes for future post ideas and suggestions I’d like to incorporate, but I just can’t share them all here. This post is long enough!

Q: Are you ever worried about putting your family out there? It’s a crazy world we live in.

A: Yes, I do think about that, but I just figure the weirdo at the grocery store can follow me home as easily as the weirdo on the Internet can find me. I also know hundreds or maybe thousands of people who put themselves and their families out on the internet as I do, and I haven’t heard of anything terribly dreadful happening. There have been a few who had to take down their sites due to stalkers or people harassing them, so I know it can happen, but I think the chances are pretty slim compared to all of the other terrible things that could possibly happen to our family.

C: Delete the negative/nasty comments & let them go. Miserable people take the time to comment that way. Maybe don’t let it go instead say a short prayer for them & then let it go 🙂

A: Haha, I appreciate that. I do delete quite a few, but some I let through because it gives me the opportunity to address some things that I know others are thinking but are too polite to say. And truly, they do not get to me. I have learned a lot in 12 years on the internet, and that is probably the best lesson of all.

Design/Usability Comments/Questions

C: You used to have a link to your favorites on your page- I do not see it anymore,I think you replaced it with Nordstrom Faves and Loft Faves. I would love to see that back!

A: It’s still there! If you click on the SHOP tab, it will take you to that page. I can also put a graphic on the sidebar that links to it. I don’t know why that’s not there anymore, actually. Updating my shop pages is on my agenda this week.

C: I access your blog via my Apple iPad or iPhone. At times I will be reading a particular section, when it decides to jump down to another section, so I will have to scroll back up to resume reading. I have no idea why that happens, but it’s very frustrating.

A: Unfortunately I think this is due to my ads. It happens to me too and it’s annoying, I agree. I feel like that didn’t happen on my old design, so maybe it is something about that switch. I am going to ask my ad network.

C: Less ad infringement. I use the iPhone and find some of the ads to be quite distracting.

A: I had some comments about ads, although not a large percentage based on the overall response. I hate them too. I really try not to allow them to take over my content, but they do contribute a chunk of change to the cost of running of this site and paying for my email service and all the other fees that go into this gig.

That said, they should never cover up content, and you should be able to X out of the ad on the footer on both mobile and desktop. If you find that you can’t X out or one is covering something up, please take a screenshot and email it to me so I can bring it to the attention of my ad network. Thank you!

C: The only thing I can think of here is to possibly add a search feature. I am usually reading from a Kindle Fire and haven’t been able to locate this feature.

A: I do have this feature, but it is harder to find on mobile devices than it is on desktop. If you’re on a computer, you can find it at the very top right, in the menu bar, and again on the sidebar. On a mobile device such as smartphone, iPad, or Kindle, you need to scroll down below the blog posts, and then you will see it along with the category and archive dropdown boxes. Hope that helps!

C: Provide easy access to consecutive postings. Sometimes I read a couple days at once or want to access something from earlier in the week — especially the 25 days feature.

A: There is a link to the previous post and the next post at the end of every post. I don’t know if you’ve seen that or not — but it is the easiest way to read a bunch of consecutive posts.

C: The only technical issue I’ve had is that the link to add a comment is below all the comments. If there’s already 100 comments, it can take a while to scroll past them all to add my comment. Not a big issue, just slightly inconvenient.

A: Interesting feedback, thank you. I can probably have that changed. That makes a lot of sense.

Blog Content Comments/Questions

C: It bothered me when you mentioned the possibility of hiring out someone to respond to your comment section. I hope you don’t do that.

A: Oh my goodness, no, I would NEVER do that. I think I mentioned that I know some other bloggers do, but I wasn’t considering that. The conversation in the comments is my favorite part about running this blog, and they are never a burden. There are other aspects I could possibly hire out, but that is not one of them. And I would never have anyone else write my posts. I will always be the voice behind my blog, comments, and social media sites. I may hire someone to help me build content for Facebook, but I will be the one posting and editing the wording so it’s mine, OR they will say who they are… if it came to that, but I don’t think so. In the past, when I’ve had blog contributors, they always wrote under their own name.

C: I would love to read more beauty posts, if you have the desire and time.

A: I’ll be working on that!

C: Sometimes you’re too wordy.

A: This made me giggle. I actually do edit things down and delete full paragraphs at times, but brevity was never my strong suit!

C: I’d like to see more ways to wear a particular piece in one post. Example 3 or 4 ways to wear a new top you have.

A: I’m definitely going to try to do more of these. I like them too.

C: I’d love to see more options for wearing clothes to work.

A: I definitely got some variation of this comment a lot, so let’s talk about that. I have finally come to terms with the fact that I will never be very good with the workwear. When I try workwear looks, I usually feel like they’re a miss for one reason or another, and I usually have someone question whether it is even appropriate for the workplace. I may make it look easy, but fashion doesn’t come easily for me, and it has taken me years to get to the point where I feel like some sort of authority on casual wear and dressy looks. I think that is why I explain so much of the process behind my outfits — I definitely give them a lot of thought. Ha!

I will still incorporate an occasional work-friendly look from time to time, but I’m going to focus mostly on what I do best, which is casual looks and date night and church outfits, as well as the occasional special occasion outfit. I do try to incorporate dresses, even though I personally don’t wear them often. I will continue trying to do better with that because I know jeans can get old. I’m also going to experiment with more different styles of denim and different price points this year.

There are so many great blogs out there that do work wear well, so I’m going to leave those looks to them! It’s amazing how freeing it feels to say that. 🙂

C: It’s okay to show your outfits if some of the items have sold out. I know that’s frustrating but we like to see what your wearing and linking to similar items is very helpful and then we have options.

A: Thank you, I appreciate that! I had to get over that because it was really getting stressful to get dressed, feeling like everything I’m wearing has to be for sale. I’m trying to find a good balance.

C: Things are sold out a lot.

A: Yes, I know, and that’s frustrating for me too. (I make more money when things are in stock, lol!) I do my best, trust me!

C: When you buy some new things maybe could do a flat-lay and save your full on review for later. That way some of us who are really interested in the item won’t miss out.

A: This is a good idea! I really struggle with creating flat-lays, though. I would actually love to hire someone to help with those, but they’d have to be local, and pretty available to stop in and put them together when ever I have something — not very practical, lol!

C: In general, I like to see outfits ON you, not flat-lays (they are eye-catching, but not helpful.)

A: LOL! I just share this because it’s funny to me how many conflicting opinions there are out there, and even if I wanted to, I could never please everyone 100% of the time.

C: Less trends, more basics and closet staples.

C: I’d love to see you step out of your comfort zone a bit more, try some trendier items like kimonos and things. A lot of your outfits look the same.

A: I rest my case! HAHA!

Q: Could you do a post on dressing your teen?

A: I’d be happy to, although my girls are not willing participants. I could do a roundup post though. Ironically my older daughter (the 15 y/o) dresses mostly like me. Seriously, pullovers and jeans and booties. Every. Day. Or pajamas, because she does cyber school. We even joke she’s a 40-year-old woman in a 15-year-old body. The 12 y/o is still in kid sizes for the most part. All that to say, I’m not sure how helpful my teen fashion posts would be.

Q: How about some “Don’t Do This” thoughts?

A: I’d like to, but I struggle whenever I try to do that because to find a picture of a good Fashion Don’t, I am usually insulting someone. LOL!!

Q: I would like to see some more outfits for church.

A: I do share all my church outfits in my Instagram Roundups, but I realize our church is very casual compared to some. I hear ya, though. I can work on that. I should probably ramp up my church style a bit anyway. I’ve always been one to dress to go to church no matter what anyone else wears. I feel it’s a matter of reverence and respect, but it’s easy to get lazy and resort to jeans when you know no one cares, lol!

C: I’d love to see you try on a larger variety of trends, not that you need to buy them, but perhaps try some on in a store. I don’t have shopping around me really so if I can see something on a real person it helps me determine if it’s worth ordering or not.

A: I would actually like to do more of this, maybe even a weekly feature. The reason I don’t do them more is, to be honest, I find them incredibly exhausting. I know, I sound like a lazy-butt, but really. Shopping takes it out of me. Ha! That said, it makes so much sense to do that b/c I don’t have to deal with returns and I don’t have to buy stuff I don’t want to keep. So I am going to TRY!!!

C: Perhaps compare 2 outfits and detailing what makes one outfit look less frumpy.

A: I like this idea. It has been suggested before, and I always think, “Oh yeah, I’ll do that!” And then I forget, lol. That might be a good thing to share on Insta Stories.

C: If you ever have suggestions on ways to modify outfits for other body types, like subbing boot cut jeans for skinnies, that would be helpful.

A: I had quite a few people suggest this, and I will try to do more with that. I’m not always confident what does work well on other body types, so that is the main reason I don’t go into that, plus my posts are long enough. Haha! But it is good feedback, and I’ll keep it in mind.

C: I enjoy your posts very much. Recently it seems you’ve used a filter on some of your photos which distorts you somewhat. Maybe that’s only how it shows on my computer, but I don’t think you need any filter like that. You’re beautiful enough on your own. 🙂

A: Bless your heart! Alison definitely goes a little filter crazy on her photos, and I’ve recently experimented some with Lightroom filters because I think some of the effects are cool, notsomuch because I’m trying to hide anything. But I will keep that in mind. I definitely don’t want my pictures to become too heavily edited. That said, I do smooth out some wrinkles and things because, well, I’m kind of  vain. And getting older isn’t for sissies! Ha!

Q: One fashion trend I don’t understand and can’t master is the half or partial tuck. Could you educate us on that trend and continue to discuss fashion trends?

A: I can’t wait for that trend to die a fast and furious death. Ha! Until then, maybe this post will help: How to Front Tuck Your Shirt. Sorry it’s so old, I should update with newer pictures.

Q: Could you do a post on how to tie different kinds of scarves? Thanks!!

A: Start with these posts: 3 Ways to Tie a Blanket Scarf and Another Way To Tie an Oversized Blanket Scarf. I will be doing one soon on tying the typical oblong scarves.

Q: Could you do a post on what to let go of in your closet? When is a style retired? I try to be somewhat in style but sometimes I wonder if something is still stylish? Like the big shoes from several years ago! Or bootcut jeans!

A: I like this idea a lot but not sure how I can implement it in a practical way because the answer to most of those questions is, “It depends…” on so many factors. Like, bootcut jeans aren’t out of style necessarily, but some of them look dated and some don’t, and I’m not sure how to differentiate without seeing the pair in question.

I guess that’s sort of what I try to do in the Fight the Frump posts… definitely something I’ll keep in mind.

Q: Share more plus sizes please. 

A: I would really love to do this, and I know from friends how hard it can be to find stylish, quality plus size clothing. It’s just hard for me to even know what a good recommendation is when I don’t shop in that department, and I feel like it’s a whole other ballgame to shop for plus sizes (same for petites.) But I will try to keep that in mind!

C: Less Nordstrom sale hype – don’t know if I can take another anniversary sale deluge from all of blog land!

A: Haha, I hear ya. I had to answer this because I’ve heard this a couple of times. I really didn’t think I overdid the #NSale this year. Beyond the huge Guide to #NSale post and the followup post with the dressing room pictures, things sold out so fast that I didn’t style a single outfit post with #NSale pieces in the remaining weeks of the sale. It was so ridiculously hot during that time that I remember thinking, “Forget it, no one wants to see fall outfits.” I probably did a post with things that were left towards the end, but it’s a 3 or 4 week sale.

Anyway, I felt the need to put that out there because I felt like I really didn’t push it much this year, but maybe because so many bloggers push it as well, it just is a lot no matter what, and you may not notice one particular blogger backing off. I can’t say I won’t post about it again, that post always does really well for me and is well received by the majority, but I will definitely try to remember how overwhelming it can be and try to balance it with other content. 🙂

C: Not really sure how you get paid for the blog but wonder if you make more according to replies or comments. I am more of a stalker but would be happy to comment if it would be beneficial to you.

A: That is sweet, I appreciate that. Comments and replies don’t really affect my income, although I guess when you post a comment, it refreshes the page, which gives me another page view, which eventually add up, and that helps ad revenue. I hadn’t really thought about that before. (I promise, that is NOT why I reply to so many of your comments!)

The times a comment would really help is when a post is sponsored. Sponsors like to see comments and engagement about their product. But I just like comments anytime! It’s the comments and the feedback from you guys that keeps me going. I would have never stuck with blogging this long if it was just a job. It’s the community and the conversations with you all that I love. So please, comment anytime! (But feel free to lurk if that is more comfortable for you. I don’t mind that either.)

Q: I would appreciate a refresher on how my purchasing can help you make money… I buy from Nordstrom and Old Navy online. If I access by clicking thru a link on your blog but buy something else, (not your featured item), do you make $? I’d like to help you as much as possible but I don’t know how this works. Maybe another little post about how the business side of your blog works?

A: Again, I appreciate that very much. I know that some people are kind of cranky about fashion bloggers making money through affiliate links, so when I hear you guys trying to support my business in this way, it means so much to me. Basically, anytime you make a purchase through one of my links, I get a small commission (usually somewhere between 5 — 10%) on your purchase. This is on whatever you purchase, whether you buy the actual product or not.

For more on how I make money doing this blog as a job, I wrote a post once that answers this question: How Do You Make Money On Your Blog? I haven’t updated it in a while, but it should still be accurate and relevant.

C: You are ALWAYS grammatically correct and clearly put a lot of effort into it. 🙂

A: Bless you, and thank you. I’m a bit of a grammar snob, I will confess. I enjoy that part of the writing process — the editing, etc. You wouldn’t believe how much time I spend editing posts, or maybe you would… ha! You know what’s annoying? My kids will NOT let me edit their school papers. They really should!

C: I finally bought some of the AG jeans you go on about. I’m throwing out all my others! You were absolutely right!!

A: Haha, that made my day! I love it when I made a premium denim convert. And I did get other comments similar to this about jeans, shoes, specific retailers, etc. I’m not out to make everyone go into credit card debt on expensive clothes (lo) but it does make me happy to see people finding the value in better quality products, and hopefully building a wardrobe of pieces they really love that last and look great and work together.

C: I would love to know what might be valuable to you from the feedback/comments.

A: Why, thank you. That’s a thoughtful thing to ask. Honestly, I just enjoy the interaction — whatever it is that you’re thinking about what I shared, etc. is fun to hear.

Okay, I realize this post is ridiculously long, but I hope you find it interesting or at least got some of your questions/comments answered. Before I announce the giveaway winner, I’ll finish with this sweet comment.

C: Thank you for your blog and sharing your life! I am dealing with some big challenges in my life, and some days your blog is really needed to provide me with a much-needed glimpse of happiness and normalcy and family love. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

A: I had a couple comments like this one, and I just want to say that I am beyond humbled to think my silly ramblings can bring anyone happiness, but I’m so glad they do! You are so very welcome. xo

IN CONCLUSION

Tap. Tap. Is this thing on?

Is anyone still here?

I mean, really. You deserve a cupcake . . . gluten-free, of course!

Honestly, I cannot thank you enough for sticking with me to the end . . . all three of you! Ha!

This was fun for me, and hopefully interesting to you too. I am ALWAYS open to questions and ideas constructive comments, so email me anytime or drop a comment on a blog post.

Thank you ALL for being here. It truly means so much.

xo

Join The Conversation

144 Responses

  1. I like that you are ‘wordy’.  I don’t like when I visit a fashion blog and there’s 3-4 pictures, a sentence or two and the shop the post links; makes me feel like the blogger I just wants me to click and shop.

      1. Agree! I enjoy your funny, genuine, helpful conversational tone ( of course being southern I guess I appreciate wordiness) HA! Congrats on your survey results! Pretty sure your stats on survey return has to be much higher than norm! Thanks for asking for input. Julie L 

    1. Thank you! I did get that comment quite a few times, so I will keep it that way.

      That said, I do try not to be redundant. Sometimes I read back and realize I can shorten things or eliminate things, and I do. So I try to find a balance, but my writing style is wordy. 🙂

      1. I love how you dissect your outfits, why they do or don’t work. It teaches me how to choose outfits for myself. It shows how much effort you put into your blog. 

      2. Love your “wordiness”! That is how we get to know you and I love hearing how you put outfits together. I also love how you talk about whats not working in an outfit you are modeling. You come across as “one of us”; some bloggers seem to live charmed lives.

    2. I completely agree, Melissa! It is the “conversation”  me coming back every bit as much as the fashion! Thanks for putting it so well for all of us who agree.

      1. Same!  I don’t think of you as wordy.  More like “chatty”.  It’s part of what makes the blog real and also enjoyable.

      2. Totally agree! Love the conversation – you are definitely not too wordy. That’s why you are one of my favorite bloggers! You make us feel like we are sitting in your kitchen having a cup of coffee with you! 🙂

    3. I agree with Melissa about other blogs having only a sentence or two with all these pictures. It shows a lack of effort in my opinion.
      Thank you Jo-lynne for being transparent, detailed and dedicated. It is apparent that you are in this blogging thing for more than the money. It’s your desire to want to help women feel and look their best.

  2. LOL – I can’t imagine how difficult it is to try to gear your blog content to please the majority of your readers — especially after reading your recap of the survey responses!

    1. There are so many conflicting comments that I WANTED to reply to, or just share because they’re funny (and well intended, all of them… no one was nasty, but it’s still overwhelming to take it all in.) The post is long enough so I just couldn’t share them all and my desired reply, but now I’m wishing I’d saved some for a Facebook Live. That could be entertaining.

  3. Thank you for sharing your survey results!  I find it interesting to see my fellow blog readers’ opinions.  Have a wonderful day!

  4. I’m a teacher who gets to school about 7 (we have to be here by 8, and the kids come at 8:20). Usually the first thing I do after I get here is read your blog. For some reason, it makes such a nice start to my day. 😉 Even though I work outside my home, I love the mix of outfits that you show. I’m pretty casual at school (even though we can only wear jeans on Friday), so it’s more the idea of some of the tops and how they’ll go with the pants/leggings I already have. Plus accessories. I am so not good with putting an outfit together with accessories, but even with only a few months of reading your blog, I feel a little more confident about adding a few. I’ve always been mostly a Gap shopper, but I’ve definitely branched out, and have incorporated some things from Nordstrom, WHBM, and LuckyBrand. I’ve started reading one or two other blogs, but honestly, I feel like, even though you’re over a decade younger than me, your style is more of what I like to wear than some of the blogs geared towards my age. (Maybe I’m dressing younger than I should be. Ha!) 😀 😀 But thanks for all the work you put into your blog!

    1. Judging by the average age of my blog readers, I am probably dressing older than my age. Haha! (Just kidding…) but I think a lot of the things I wear appeal to a broad range of ages. At least, that’s what I’m told. 🙂 It works out well for me!

      1. I don’t think you are dressing older but you are helping us to not dress old or frumpy. At 50 and beyond, wearing what’s current ( with some adjustments depending on trend) prevents one from looking old and frumpy. I strongly believe that dressing nicely, updating your hairstyle and makeup keeps us looking and feeling the best we can be. You’re my go to fashion advisor!

  5. Oh my goodness!!!!! I can not believe I won the gift card!! Thank you!!!!

    I really enjoyed reading these results but had to giggle a bit at some of the conflicting responses. I think you do what you do well and I have been exposed to so many more stores and fashion options. I love Nordstrom now and will look into Bloomies as you feature it. I recently signed up for Shoprunner and using more stores with that feature will be good! 

    I am glad you will continue to feature an assortment of high and low end items. Not everything needs to be top of the line but honestly the nicer clothes I am buying hold up so much better than stuff from Kohl’s. I was strictly a Kohl’s shopper before discovering Loft/Nordstrom and some of the Factory type Outlet stores. I still wait for a sale for buying most items (which most retailers have a coupon or sale of the day), but I think I can finally shop a little less now that items are lasting longer. 

  6. Congrats on your gift card “smiley”!!!! That will be so much fun to spend.
    Thanks for sharing the results of the survey. I really enjoyed this post.

  7. I love your blog, and I love that you write a lot in it. It’s very evident that you put a lot of work into it every day and that’s what keeps me coming back. I always like to support women in their businesses so the fact that you help me with outfits is even better. 🙂

    1. Cassie (Hi Sugarplum) does work wear looks often, and she’s more of a pear shape, which some of you might like: https://hisugarplum.com/

      Cyndi does more work wear than I do: https://www.cyndispivey.com/

      Lindsey has a work wear section, although she does a lot of jeans too: https://themotherchic.com/category/fashion/workwear/

      Deborah is a great resource for all types of looks, and she’s a little bit older than I am: https://www.fabulousafter40.com/

      I am sure there are more… if I come across some, I’ll try to add them.

      1. Cori at Dress Corilyn is petite, and I really like her style: https://dresscorilynn.com/

        Alyson Haley is petite as well, and she’s younger, but I get a lot of inspiration from her outfit combinations – https://sequinsandthings.com/

        I’m sure I know of others… Oh, Extra Petite is another one: https://www.extrapetite.com/

        I’m not sure who to recommend for plus size bloggers, but if anyone reading along has one they like, feel free to chime in!

  8. I too like your “wordy-ness” it helps me in analyzing my own outfits to figure out what works and what could be better. For me it’s more about the process, esp. since I don’t wear jeans everyday like SOME people! 🙂
    Some blogs I don’t click through to if I don’t like the outfit b/c I know that is all there is there. But with yours, I often do click through anyway to hear your process or what the kids are up to etc. Keep being wordy is what I’m trying to say!

  9. I enjoy your blog so much and I’m really excited to read everything you shared above! Analytics are great, aren’t they? LOL. I have a random question and I wasn’t sure where to post it, so hopefully, it is ok to put here:

    I was in Nordstrom Rack yesterday and I saw some bags by Lodis. Do you know anything about this brand? I don’t think I’ve seen it featured on your blog but I do consider you a handbag expert so I wondered if you can weigh in on the quality for the price, style (fight the frump) etc.

    Thanks!

  10. Thank you for sharing these results! And thank you again for allowing us the opportunity to give you feedback.
    Have a great day!

  11. As per Melissa’s comment, I enjoy reading the news and information in your emails and blog content. I’ve never considered you to be wordy at all. I find your specific, candid comments about fit, fabric, size, etc. to be very helpful. It helps me to make purchasing decisions.

    I also don’t consider the advertising on your blog site to be excessive. I’ve visited other blogger sites that are soooo disrupted by loading advertisements and pop-ups, that I decided to stop following them. Yours seems like a reasonable mix to me.

    I also don’t mind the repeating jeans/sweater formulas, because that’s my game. LOL.

  12. Hi Jo-Lynne, I just started reading your blog a couple of months ago. I must have missed the survey (I was on vacation during that time), but I really enjoy this site and think you do a great job. I don’t buy a lot from Nordstrom so I can’t say that I am on that bandwagon yet, but I do agree with you about Kohl’s I don’t find a lot there either in the way of women’s clothing (now home/bathroom décor etc…that’s different!). But almost all the other stores you reference are right up my alley. I’m also a Tory Burch lover, but only when I can visit the outlet or find a good sale online! I just love the honest opinion you give about outfits regarding what works and what does not. I’ve used your advice several times since I started reading. Thanks!!

  13. Thank you for sharing the results of your survey. I enjoy reading your blog every day. You do a wonderful job of keeping us in current trends. I also enjoy your features about Nordstrom, especially their anniversary sale. You are certainly right that you can’t please everyone, but I like your blog just the way it is. My goal for 2018…lose 20 pounds and invest in a pair of AG jeans!!! ????

  14. I agree with Melissa, I enjoy your wordiness about fashion, beauty and just your everyday life.  Blogs that mostly show photos of themselves modeling fashion and shopping links are boring. And I can find that kind of content on most store’s websites without a Bligger directing me to it. I really enjoyed reading the survey results, it was fun! That was a lot to respond to for you! I think you deserve 2 gluten-free cupcakes! ???? Blessings!

    1. PS: This is just a random question but would you share how tall you are? That would be helpful in determining where the length of an outfit might generally fall. I wear about the same size as you but am 5’ 2”.

  15. This was so interesting and it shows that you care and want to know what your readers like. I learned a few things from this as well. One is that Instagram doesn’t share your comments and keeps things more private so I may start using it more. I really hate that about Facebook. I also learned that I’m not the only “older person” following your blog lol. I love fashion and it really helps to have a partner in crime ????
    Thank you for all you do and I am always so thrilled when you reply to my comments. You are truly dedicated to your work and although I do follow 2 other fashion bloggers, I just don’t get the same since of commitment or enthusiasm as I do from you.  One of them even makes it seem like she doesn’t have time to send a post or is always apologizing for posting late…almost like her blog it secondary?  My motto has always been; if your going to do something, do it at ???? percent and be passionate about it and the rest will come. I think your a perfect example of this! 

  16. Wow!  This was so interesting to read.  I really appreciate you taking the time to compile the results so that we can have a glimpse of the responses you received.  My momma always stressed with me that if I can’t say something nice, then don’t say anything, so even offering constructive criticism doesn’t come easy for me.  Your blog is definitely my favorite for so many reasons!  I honestly feel like we personally know one another.  After the 14 day Adore Your Wardrobe free course, I may look into buying one pair of premium jeans, since I am not super happy with any of the jeans hanging in my closet right now.  Hope y’all are staying warm up there!  We were not in the teens or 20’s this morning, for a change.  Even though my favorite college team is GA Tech, I have to say, GO DAWGS!

      1. I think she’s talking about the From Frustrating to Functional Closet Challenge. It’s not really a condensed Adore Your Wardrobe, but more of a way to prepare you for the AYW course. Kelly describes it as the psychology behind our wardrobes and our clothing choices that reveals the mistakes we make and provides tools to fix the problems long term. This is the link: https://bit.ly/frustfunc 🙂

  17. Thank you you for this post. Ha! I did stick around to the end. I was curious to see the results and what everyone had to say. I enjoy reading your blog.

  18. I love your blog and I’ve enjoyed reading through your survey results.  I have to admit that I’m a little surprised to learn that at age 66 I’m significantly older than most of your readers.  Perhaps I’m even the oldest!  Although I’m retired and no longer need business attire I still like to look at least somewhat fashionable, as do most of my friends.  I love the fact that most of your styles lean toward an updated classic traditional look, rather than overly trendy.  Thank you for helping me maintain a sense of fashion and style!

  19. I didn’t put many comments. I can never think of good info to add when I do stuff like that — which probably means in the scheme of things I’m pretty happy. You are the one blog I consistently stick with and that’s been for some time. I’m not opposed to Bloomies, I just don’t shop there much anymore. Used to all the time, but now I get overwhelmed and don’t look. Although I’ve bought a couple (okay maybe more, but who’s counting) of cashmere sweaters from there the last couple of years and really like them. I wish I had thought to comment on the Nordstrom sale posts. Sometimes it feels like bloggers are ramming it down our throats, honestly I think it’s overrated. Normally when I buy stuff during the sale it’s because I’ve succumbed to pressure from blogland and I don’t typically end up being happy with what I bought. I really try to just ignore the posts surrounding it anymore. And that’s not directed solely at you, I’m thinking of all of the fashion bloggers I visit.

    1. I hear ya. It gets overwhelming even for me. (I follow a lot of fashion blogs too.) I have gotten some amazing deals on great pieces tho. My camel coat is from the NSale 2016, and the AG jeans and cashmere cardigan from this past year are staples for me. Oh, my Sam Edelman boots and the Jeffrey Campbell booties… and my Stuart Weitzman OTK boots. So yeah, it’s a lot of hype, but if you know what you want, and you shop early (or stalk their site for returns) you can do really well there, I think. That said, you can get good deals at other times and at other stores too. 🙂

  20. So interesting. I read to the end. And that says a lot because I get bored easily. Ha Don’t ever stop blogging. You make my day. And I’m a bargain hunter but I may have to try the AG jeans this year!

  21. Thank you for sharing the details on the reader survey.  I, too, laugh at the conflicting comments.  It seems that you really are on the right track.  I like your “wordiness “!  Your superior writing style is one of the things that separates you from the herd.

  22. Interesting results!  Thanks for all you do – I love reading your blog, and have definitely learned from it (you’ve convinced me to size down – I think my constant tendency to size up was making stuff frumpy), and tried some new brands (I barely take off my 7FAMK jeans…which I bought thanks to you, and in a smaller size than I used to even try on…heh).  The one thing that disappoints me a little is that (I guess) no one else mentioned shopping at places like TJ Maxx or Nordstrom Rack or Off Fifth (my faves).  It’s not the I don’t appreciate seeing the pricey stuff, because I do.  In fact, I mostly buy high-end stuff, I just hate paying full price (or even close to it, especially when you’re talking $200+ for a pair of jeans).  It would be interesting to me to see you tackle a discount store.  It’s obviously more random (just cuz it’s in your local store doesn’t mean it’s in mine), but I would love to see how you approach those places.  Just a thought.  I get that not everyone has the time or patience for that.  Keep up the good work!

    1. Yes, I did actually mention TJ and Saks Off Fifth when I shared the pie chart of my price points. 🙂 I do encourage people to shop there from time to time, and that is where I get a lot of my higher quality sweaters. I find the denim selections at those stores to be rather hit or miss, but I like to search for Vince and Joie sweaters and shoes. 🙂 I hate going in person and pawing thru all of the racks to find the hidden treasures, but now that they offer online shopping, I use them more.

  23. I had no idea you would get paid on any purchase I made at Nordstrom, I thought it would be only items you featured. My 2017 purchases could have made a nice contribution to your son’s college tuition! From now on I will link through your blog before I shop. Sadly though, I’ve resolved to cut back on my shopping in 2018. We’ll see how long that lasts…

  24. Love to hear the responses! I’m on the younger side of your readers but I love your style and feel like it is ageless. Not too trendy and never frumpy. I do feel like I have to defend my beloved half tuck! 🙂 My friends and I were discussing this very thing and we decided that those of us who are less well endowed in the chest area love the half tuck because otherwise shirts just billow on us too much and make the whole waist area look bigger than it is. Those who have more up top dislike it because it has the opposite effect on them. But, like all trends, you can just choose to skip it if it doesn’t work for your body type! Thanks for your hard work!

    1. Yes, you are precisely right. It’s not flattering on me b/c of the boobage (ha!) but sometimes it is the only way to wear a certain top so I do it anyway. But sweaters I cannot front tuck. I look ridiculous. 🙂 It’s good to know what trends work for your and which ones to pass on.

  25. I check your blog every morning and have for many years. When I need a new clothing item I always check to see if you have input on it which helps me make a good decision on my purchase. I really like that your posts are thorough and appreciate that you are wordy! Since I’ve been with you for so long I am interested in your family updates and your life in general. I would miss not knowing what’s going on. Ha!

    Fight the Frump is helpful. Also like when you show options of similar items at different price points for comparisons. And the one when you broke down coats/jackets for different climates was appreciated because I live in a milder climate.

    Honestly I like everything you do here which is why I return daily. You have helped me have stylish wardrobe pieces, sort through the many items at Nordstrom anniversary sale, grab handbags, etc. throughout the year at great sales prices, provide me with many delicious recipes from your archive and guide me in gift giving. I’d call that having a pretty successful blog! You rock!

  26. I found the results very interesting! You are definitely NOT too wordy!! You have a fabulous writing style, and you teach us about fashion, instead of just wearing items, with a few lines about the items you’re wearing. 
    I also love to hear about your life, and your family. You truly are relatable, and I do feel like I know you. 
    Your blog is truly a treat every day! 

  27. I didn’t participate in the survey (I forgot about it), but I wanted to let you know I love your blog, and I read it every day (as well as Instagram.  I’m not on Facebook every day).   

    I especially love the Coffee Talk.  I grab a cup of coffee, and I feel like I have visited with a friend.  I just need to comment more.  

    Have you ever considered looking at JCPenny?  They have beautiful good quality clothes, jewelry,  and shoes at a great price point.  A person can find trendy as well as classic items there, and they have great sales and coupons.  It’s just an idea, or maybe you didn’t know about them.  

    God bless you.  You do a great service for women of all ages.  

    1. Thanks, Amanda, I do recognize your email from years back. Thank you for your faithful readership! I have not shopped much at JCP, but I know they’ve tried to up their style game lately, and I should probably take another look.

  28. I did read the whole article. No complaints here – however, I love the fashion part the most. I love the Nordstrom and Loft posts. I really like the the Nordstrom and Loft sale posts.  I don’t wish for you to change your blog too much – I look forward to it everyday!! 

    1. Thanks, Paulette. I have no intention to change it much. I feel like the survey overall confirmed that I should keep doing what I’m doing, with perhaps a tweak here or there – but more of the same, just hopefully better. 🙂

  29. I also thought the results to your survey were interesting.
    I like the N sale, and didn’t think your coverage was too much.
    Also, I would like to put in a good word for Bloomingdale’s. I had never shopped there until this past year. But when I found Tory Burch Minnie ballet flats for $171 (regular price 228, discount of 25%), I started paying attention. They also have had the Tory Burch McGraw Slouchy Leather Shoulder Bag in black discounted 25 %. I have talked to their customer service people twice, and they could not have been nicer or more helpful. Once was when the item I was wanting (on sale) was showing sold out online. Their customer service helped me find the item at a store, and had it sent to me. Finally, they give you an extended amount of time to make returns. I do love Nordstrom, but Bloomingdale’s is another source to consider.
    I don’t have any affiliation with them, or know anyone who does 🙂
    I am a shopper who likes to have fewer, nicer things. But I watch until I see a sale. It seems like the smart thing to do!! So I appreciate you letting us know what sales are going on.

  30. I’ll take a chocolate cupcake (and it can even have gluten) LOL. Great job summarizing all the info Jo-Lynne. That must have really taken quite a bit of time. I have loved getting to know you and having dialogue with you and look forward to that continuing. Happy Monday!

  31. I have rarely commented, but I read your blog along with a couple others every day. I enjoy your blog and love how real you seem to be. I enjoy hearing your thought process out loud when you evaluate your outfits. Keep it up! Even though I live outside of Phoenix, AZ and some of the posts don’t apply, I can always learn something from them. Stay warm!

  32. I’m appreciative of your efforts and all you bring to the table – you are super relatable and your ‘wordiness’ is probably what I like best. I feel like you’re my friend :). Helping me to present my best self with my clothing choices. I don’t typically comment but wanted to encourage you and thank you!!  You obviously care about your blog, etc. — bless you!!  

  33. Jo-Lynne,

    I really enjoy reading your blog and get so much inspiration from it, and not just regarding fashion. Sometimes, just to do better, or put myself together with more thought. Thank you! And as far as work wear goes, I feel like the corporate culture has really relaxed in the last few years. At least here in Austin, TX. It may be regional, but I find many of your daily suggestions will work fine for me and for most of my friends and family who work outside the home. Keep on, keeping on! 🙂

  34. You are officially my favorite fashion blogger, and I have never shopped at Nordstrom or LOFT and do not intend to. I am much happier shopping at JCP and Goodwill, but it’s the outfit ideas I like and then go find something similar in my comfort zone. When I find a nice quality article of clothing while thrifting that I don’t recognize the brand, a lot of times I will google it and see that it is a brand carried by Nordstrom. And I have lots of thrifted LOFT items. I strictly enjoy women’s fashion posts and that is usually what I get here. When it’s something else, I will just come back the next day and see what you have to share then! And I love that you post almost every day.

  35. Thanks for all your hard work, JoLynne! I really enjoy your wordiness – your positive outlook, keeping it real and doable. Thanks for being a bright light in cyber-land.

  36. Such a fun read! for a data wonk (me).   I look forward to more Bloomingdale mentions to explore.  Not a fan of The Loft due to inconsistent sizing and quality.  Always a Nordstrom fan.  Please don’t feel compelled to be everything to everybody.  Other blogs can compliment needs that are outside your bailiwick.  Happy New Year!

    1. Thank you, I appreciate that. And I know I’ll never be everything to everybody. It’s still helpful and interesting to know what y’all are thinking, tho. 🙂 Happy New Year to you too!

  37. You totally do not need any filters! You are beautiful. I think it is good to see people grow old gracefully. (This is good for me to write, because I am your age and know exactly what you mean with aging.) Anyway, I love seeing people are age and older in the fashion blogging world. It is good for us!

  38. Jo-Lynne, thanks for sharing the survey results as it was a very interesting read. Based on the readers’ comments about the results, I believe that almost all of us LOVE your “wordiness.” For me, the fact that you expound on outfits and life in general makes you very relatable and a great teacher of fashion. I have learned so much about fashion, trends, and what to wear or not wear from you and your “wordiness” is what brings me back each day.

    1. LOL, thank you. I don’t think the comment was meant in any way to be unkind. I know I’m wordy. I don’t want the person who wrote that to think I took it the wrong way. 🙂

  39. Just sitting here waiting for my cupcake to arrive!! 😉 Read all the way through. I’ve got to agree with my other Jo-Lynne groupie sisters that your “voice” makes your blog! Keep your wordiness, sister! It’s just right!

  40. Your blog is the only one I follow. I love your casual style and your wordy posts. I have two little boys and one of my favorite times of day is their nap time so I can sit down & read my daily email from you. Its a weird one-sided friendship =P but the way you “talk” is so encouraging & down-to-earth that I feel like you are one of my “real-life” friends =). Keep up the great work!

    1. Thank you, Donna. Your comment means a lot. I know it seems one sided, but hearing that, and knowing so many of you are out there feeing that way makes it feel pretty mutual to me. 🙂

  41. Fun post–love the Q&A. I somehow missed the survey (probably got lost in the millions of emails I didn’t read over winter break 😉 )  I’ve been following you for quite a few years now and really enjoy your blog and what you have to share. Happy New Year.

  42. I feel like my comments should have LIKE buttons. Wouldn’t that be cool? I hate to inundate your inboxes with thank you emails, but I do like to acknowledge your comments. 🙂 You are all so awesome, thanks for being here. xoxo

  43. oh man, I have some of the very same comments as you posted from the survey–so glad to see the results. But probably the one survey comment that spoke to me the most: take an outfit and make it frumpy so we can see the difference. Frankly, unless my sister is with me–and we live cross country from each other–I go into frump land way too often.  So it would help to see what makes the difference. I guess I need to take the time to go try on a bunch of AG jeans.  I have not had time to shop but think maybe this would be worth it. I have a Bloomies and a Nordstrom in the same location so it might be fruitful. And don’t worry about doing more work outfits–you can’t be everything to everybody–do what you do best.  I work either from home in a pair of shorts and a top, or I am in “court” clothes for which I just roll into Nordstrom.  The range of work clothes is pretty broad so anyone looking for that should seek a blogger that works in a particular work environment. oh, I will echo a survey comment: will you please move the new comment section to the top of the comments?

    1. Hey Peggy! I will see about moving the comment section. 🙂

      Try on AG but also try on DL161, Paige, 7 For All Mankind, Citizens, and Joe’s. There are so many good ones, and some fit some body types better than others. Also try on some different rises and inseam lengths to find what works best for you. 🙂 Good luck!

  44. Thank you for sharing the results of the survey! I always learn at least one thing from your posts. I learned from this post that I should try Bloomingdales. I have bought a sweater you had linked from there once before. Just forgot about Bloomies. I’m an avid Nordstrom shopper! But will give Bloomiies a try. As far as your wordiness goes, it comes across as a conversation. Therefore, it feels more personalized. I follow a few of the other bloggers you mentioned. You’re still my favorite. I follow Summerwind and she has many work outfits. They tend to be on he high end side but you should be able to find an alternative to copy her outfits. I’m glad you don’t live in Richmond, VA because you might see me walking around with one of the outfits I copied from your Instagram????

  45. I didn’t participate in the survey this year either but reading all the comments made me wish I had. I must agree with most of them that your blog makes me feel like I am getting fashion advice from a friend and the Coffee Talks catch me up on the rest of your life every Sunday. I follow several fashion blogs but I find that the others I eliminate after a couple of years or don’t read them everyday. Being a southern girl (grandmother) myself, I like your chattiness and explanations for what works and what doesn’t. Your classic style preferences are appealing across a wide age range. I’d like to see more a mix and match of the same pieces. When I have similar pieces in my closet you give me ideas about different looks which stretches my wardrobe and my comfort zone. Thanks for a truly excellent blog!

  46. As a “wordy” and “chatty” girl myself, I love your posts, especially the detailed stream-of-consciousness ones!
    Sometimes after I’ve left comments on your posts I look back and think, oh my gosh, I’ve just typed a novel! 🙂 Hopefully it’s not a bother!

    Thanks for everything you do!

  47. I personally like the #NSale coverage because I just recently started shopping there and love the ease of free shipping/free returns. I don’t think you over-covered it and would like to see you continue/keep covering it. Maybe even include Nordstrom Rack since there are some great finds there. Fun results, keep up the great work.

  48. I have no idea how long I’ve followed your blog or even how I found you but I’m so glad I did. I really don’t have anything else to add as the others that commented said my thoughts so well and much more eloquently than I probably would have. I do like the term “Jolynne groupie” 🙂

  49. I read the whole post and all of the comments!  ???? I love the fact that you take such pride in your blog and it definitely shows!  I don’t always have the time to read daily but I do read all of your emails and posts at some point during the week.  I have been following your blog for several years and have always enjoyed your writing style. Although I work outside the home, I do really like your style and since my workplace leans toward a more casual environment, I can easily swap “blue jeans” for colored denim.  Or if I like a sweater or top that you style, it’s usually easy to just pair with slacks, if denim isn’t appropriate.  In the past few years, I have begun to invest in a few better quality staples…..not that I never did want to, but now my budget allows……..and it’s easy to see why some things are just worth the cost.   Some things maybe not so much but everyone has to choose what works for them.  And I’m thinking more about the purchases I make.  I’m trying to steer clear of impulse buys and I want classic items that look and feel good.   I will say I am ordering some from Nordstrom, which is new. I love the free shipping and the customer service!  Living in a rural area, I order most things and I. Love. Free. Shipping! Lol. And I agree with you…..not a fan of Loft.  I tried them for a while, especially for workwear, but I just didn’t feel the quality was there.  Your blog is full of information for all your fashionista followers and we certainly appreciate the hard work, effort, and shopping that you do for us! ????

  50. I opened this email on Monday and somehow never got around to reading the post. I have to say I laughed out loud a couple times (good thing I’m home alone). But what made me laugh the most is there are 2 typos in the answer to the question right after the one about you grammar 😉 and they’re stil there 2 days later.

  51. First time commenting…I am one of those “lurkers”, but wanted to tell you that I have been reading for a couple of years. Your blog is one of my favorites. Your personality really comes through in your writing, and I’m thinking that if we lived in the same city we could be great friends! 😉 Many of the things you say are the same things going through my mind.

    Keep up the good work!

  52. I don’t know how I missed this post originally. I am just seeing it for the first time today (1/12). I always love to see (and participate in …) the poll results. Thank you for all you do and creating this community of wonderful women. Reading though the results are always interesting.  Keep on keeping on. 
    Blessings to us all in 2018!
    Sharrye Miles-Holder 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Search
Close this search box.