Reader NYNY writes in from a mysterious location and asks: Hi TCFKAG! I've been on a quest for some time with no success: I'm looking for red pumps in leather that isn't patent. I don't know why, but all I can find is patent, which always gives me blisters. Add in that I fear red patent tends to look strippery - but that may be my office, where several staff members wear stripper shoes all the time (like these Qupid Neutral Platform Pump). I wear a 7.5 or 8, prefer closed toe for year-round wear, like a 3 inch heel but would go up or down an inch, and want no or minimal platform. I'm willing to spend up to $150ish for the right pair. I frequently wear a lot of black, grey, and navy, and I've long loved wearing red shoes with a fairly neutral outfit. But I just can't find them lately. Can you help?
So - I'm going to start by addressing one issue in your letter - I'm fairly uncomfortable with the declaration that all patent leather shoes are "strippery" (or actually that any shoes are "stripper" shoes unless a woman is wearing them to dance on stage while taking off her clothes - but that's another matter entirely.) But, what I'm not uncomfortable with is saying that certain shoes aren't necessarily work appropriate and are best saved for going out to clubs or bars or wherever else you want to wear them, and I think the platform pumps you linked to fall firmly into that category. Here's why - I think work shoes can have one (or even two) of the following things: high heel, platform, bright color, patent leather, embellishment, or peep toe (know your office) - but if there are more than two of those on a given pair of shoes, you should think long and hard about whether the shoes you are holding are work appropriate. But, moving on, I don't have to agree with you that patent is non-work appropriate by nature to understand that it may not be your style or preference - so I'm happy to help you find a nice, non-patent red pump (and I agree, they can be a real bitch to find.) So let's give it a try, okay? And now for my tradition of a couple of less rule bound options: Tahari Zoe Patent Leather Pointed-Toe Pumps in coral at Lord & Taylor ($59.99 - I *love* the shape on these and thought the color is called coral it looks like its a reddish coral. Even though its called patent leather, it looks like these would be beautiful for the office in the spring and summer.) Frye Regina High Heels in vintage red at Zappos ($188 - I love the shape and color of these - for a high heel these would be amazingly comfortable I bet. Seriously. There's a lower version too.) EDITOR'S NOTE: Have you entered the promotional contest yet? HAVE YOU? And if you have, did you remember to send me the email documenting your entry? Without the email I won't know how many people to enter in the raffle!! So promote away dear readers - and then send me an e-mail at [email protected] with a screenshot or link showing your awesome efforts. :-) You are all awesome. Thumbs up!
Reader SZ asks:I love your recommendations on Corporette. Up to a swimsuit challenge? I'm going on a beach vacation (yay!) which requires swimsuit shopping (boo!) I'm looking for something cute and on-trend but practical enough to play with my kids. I'm tall so I prefer tankinis (no bikinis for me since the kids.) Relevant facts: 5'10" so most 1-pieces are too short (and "long torso" suits usually look like grandma-wear) I'm generally slim but with post-baby pooch and muffin top. Super self-conscious about this. B/C cup I'd normally go for something like this: J-Crew Pintuck Bandeau Tankini, but I need to find something that won't fall down or (maybe even worse) fly/float up to reveal my mid-section when I'm playing and swimming. I also like prints but it seems like the more updatedl prints are all in bikinis - double boo. Price up to $200 - I'm desperate! Thanks!Its still kind of cold, rainy and gross outside here in lovely New England, but the first signs of summer are hitting...in my ask box! So, I have a few favorite places to look for swim suits, Lands End and Athleta. So I'll point you to a few favorites there. I think these particular stores will be good matches for you because they sell more athletic suits, meaning they will be less prone to pulling up or otherwise being a pain in the but to swim in. So let's do this thing. Bombay Bra Cup Twistini Tankini at Athleta ($76 - comes in two colors and two designs, has built in cup in a variety of sizes, and comes in tall size as well.) S ara Bra Cup Halter Tankini at Athleta ($72 - this is quite like the one you like from J-crew, but it comes in a tall size and with a built in cup and with a variety of colors.) Space Dye Kata One Piece at Athleta ($79 - another tall sized one-piece and this one is down right sexy. I like it!) Okay - those are just a smattering of my favorites at Athleta - you should check it out. I love their suits. So these are my favorites at my two favorite swimsuit stores. Some other places to check out are REI, LL Bean, and Target. Speedo, the competitive swim suit brand, also sells some tankinis that are pretty good and would likely not ride up if you want to check those out as well. Hope this helps! Have a great vacation - and hope the swim suit problems fade into the background of an otherwise awesome trip. :-)
Reader LK de-lurks and inquires:Hi TCFAKG, I lurk in C'rette, sometimes comment. I need help with wedding attire. I am going to a family wedding in late September in NYC. The wedding itself is held in the Botanical Gardens, and I will also be attending the rehearsal dinner and the Sunday morning brunch (both to be held in Scarsdale). I asked my cousin (groom's sister) for pointers and she replied: "As for dress code. My understanding is that for the wedding itself long (but not poufy) and/or black would be fine but black in general is the norm for New York. I am aiming for dark and below the knee but most probably not to the floor (though I went to a wedding in NYC the same formality last week and there was a lot of floor length even in dark colors so that would be fine). . It's definitely more formal than a little black dress though, but I think even one step up is fine with multiple steps also being ok. For the other events: Friday I am going cocktail and probably black - often the bride wears like white with a pattern though [bride] may not but I would avoid that specifically. Sunday brunch I am going to wear a skirt and flats - like business casual but not so worky. If that makes sense. I don't think the weekend will be very warm, so keep that in mind" Do you have any further insight? any shopping options? Mostly for the wedding itself, I can probably manage the rehearsal and look for something for the brunch. I actually live overseas, but can do online shopping. I am usually a small/4 in AT/BR. Incidentally, I am 5'3", and husband is 6'3", so anything that makes me taller would be appreciated. I have no set budget, but I'd like to spend no more than $300. Thanks! LSo, I'm starting to think I should change the name of my blog to "TCFKAG Shops for Wedding Guest Attire." Just kidding (sort of); who doesn't like shopping for pretty dresses. Here is my quick summation of what you need:- Rehearsal dinner: black or dark colored cocktail dress.
- Wedding: Midi-length or tea-length black or dark colored formal dress - perhaps a long gown if something is awesome.
- Sunday brunch: Fun business casual.
- Overall - lighter fabrics because it may be hotter than hell.
Assuming that summary is right, I'll suggest a few options for all three events (I know you said just the wedding but I don't do things half way in these here parts). And since its my site and I'll do what I want to, I might also offer up some fun shoe and/or accessories ideas. Because I'm awesome like that. So here we go. One last note, since you didn't clarify where you live overseas, I'm mostly sticking with American retailers here - but for future submissions and other readers, I can search on country specific websites (at least for some countries) so you can at least tell me where you're coming from. REHEARSAL DINNER Black one-shouldered draped sleeveless cocktail dress from Calvin Klein ($49.99 - I actually just recommended this to a friend for a wedding this summer, she ordered it and likes it a lot. It so classy and sleek but could totally be glitzed up with red shoes or metallic jewelry. I'm a big fan and am thinking about getting it myself, the price is certainly right.) Petite Seamed Detail Sweetheart Body-Conscious Dress from ASOS ($64.49 - lovely classic shape and I assume at your height you can wear petite sizes - only issue is, based on the picture, it looks like you'll need to get a slip under it.) Calvin Klein Strapless Neon-Trim Dress at Dillard's ($59.40 - another fairly simple yet classy number from CK - though the neon pink adds a twist. Its a cotton/spandex blend, meaning it should breath well in the heat, and you could maybe add interest with a pink wrap. Overall pretty cute - though not sure if Dillard's will ship to you - might have to find it elsewhere!) Suzi Chin for Maggy Boutique Ruched Matte Jersey Dress at Nordstroms ($118.00 - the Suzi Chin line has lots of great dresses for this sort of thing but this is one of my favorites. 56 reviews and it has 4 stars and I just think it looks really flowy and flattering - maybe consider one of the non-black colors...I know, scandalous, but the purple is cute!) Nue by Shani pink and navy two tone cocktail dress from eDressMe ($92.00 - so this is kind of a curveball both because its final sale and because its not really what you described but something about it just called to me, plus eDressMe ships world wide so that's a plus. Only available in a size 6, so may run too big, but sometimes these sorts of dresses run kind of small, so it may even out in the end.) Paper Dolls Mirrored Lace Body-Conscious Dress at ASOS ($98.43 - another color option, I love cobalt and black and think its both super on trend right now but also classic. ASOS ships internationally I believe and I think this dress is fabulous.) Corso Como Dover Pump at DSW ($109.95 - I feel like red pumps are a great combo with black dresses and the cut-outs at the back of these give them a little interest. I don't know, they're cool.) Ivanka Trump Ariell High Heel Ankle Strap Pumps at Bloomingdales ($105.00 - metallics are my other favorite with black dresses and I'm super into gold right now, so here you go. I also really like black and gold together, like these ones at Piperlime, but they're only available in limited sizes so I went with the Ivankas instead.) THE WEDDING Adrianna Pappell Short Sleeve Sequin Mesh Gown ($278 - SPARKLES - this row is having non-black dresses because I'm stubborn and because of reasons.) Colorblocked Blanche Dress at Kate Spade New York ($249 - a little whimsical but styled right it'd be great.) Dalia MacPhee Strapless Pleated Ruffle Chiffon Gown ($298 - another repeat but that's because I'm in love with it. The color and shape are gorgeous - though reviews say it runs large.) Okay - the shoes here really depend on what you buy - but you could wear either of the shoes from above again with most of these. Now - I know you said you had the brunch on lockdown (and I'm sure you do) but I came across a few casual dresses that would be great for it, so I thought I'd pass them along. THE BRUNCH
Reader LS wrote:I have a deep purpley-pink cardigan that goes so well with everything in my wardrobe I wear it about once a week, and would love to find a blazer in the same color for under $100 or so. This jacket from White House Black Market is the perfect color, but I don't want to go up near the top of my price range for something with peplum and dramatic gap under the button... it's just a little too trendy to be a workwear staple for me. I'd also be open to other shades of pink - especially blush - and even prints incorporating pink, as long as the blazers don't look too Barbie or ladies-who-lunch. I'm a size small, and can't wear blazers with three or more buttons without looking disproportionate. Love your blog! You've already convinced me to buy one Land's End dress, and I'm seriously, seriously tempted by that Free People maxi you posted yesterday (hopefully it goes on sale soon).Okay! This is a fun one since purple and other berry shades are my absolute favorite colors and serve as the backbone of my personal wardrobe. I actually have a terrific blazer in this exact shade from H&M (unfortunately its about four years old) that I wear all the time on weekends and occasionally to work when I'm feeling sassy. I also think a darker blush blazer would be lovely for spring and summer. So lets get started shall we? For those shopping along at home, this is the WHBM blazer that LS likes. While I have to agree that this is a lovely blazer in theory (purple, fitted, would go with lots of things for summer), the construction is all wrong. The button is too high for a single button jacket and the peplum is hitting the model in entirely the wrong place. I think we can do better. I am going to look for purple and pink blazers for you with a fitted shape - and I may even throw in a burgundy or berry one two since its in the same color family and I think you might really like it. So here are some options. Apt. 9 Ponte Knit Blazer in ship red at Kohls ($21 - I think this color reads as a blush pink rather than red and the shape is classic - and who doesn't like a ponte knit blazer for summer. Kohl's quality can be hit or miss, but the price here cannot be beat.) Tailored Blazer in snapdragon from Madewell ($89.99 - in the world of bright pink blazers, I think this is my favorite. It is beautifully constructed keeping it more on the side of Elle Woods, attorney-at-law and less on the Barbie goes to court. A definite option if you want a brighter pink.) One Button Blazer in rose at Anne Klein ($129.00 - a bit above budget but I'm including because I think Anne Klein makes some of the most beautiful looking blazers I see around - and this shade of pink is lovely. They have a two button blazer in red that is in the budget, if you were interested in that instead.) NOTE: As per usual the bottom couple is where I throw a couple of curveballs because I like to keep people on their toes. Floral Vines Print Linen Blazer in mineral red at Ann Taylor Loft ($98 - I know its not what you wrote in looking for but the pattern is remarkably pretty so I thought I'd throw it in there. Paired with pewter gray, tan, black, navy, or even say a dark purple this would be a great way to add interest to an otherwise streamlined outfit.) Draycott Blazer in soft red at Boden ($69.99 - love the cross hatch pattern - also available in navy and ivory.) Romeo & Juliet Couture One-Button Blazer in Burgundy at Neiman Marcus Last Call ($49.50 - I surprisingly like the gold hardware on the pockets and the color is great. The one review says it runs small so order a size up. And I will endeavor not to hold the designer's stupid name against it.) Okay! So those are my best suggestions as of now. As you can probably tell, there are way more blazers in various shade of pink out there right now then there are purple ones, if I had to guess I'd say its because of the season. I would bet there will be more purple blazers in the late summer and fall. But I think some of these pink blazers are lovely if you wanted to get one of those now and then wait and get a purple blazer later (not that the two purple options aren't cute in their own right.) Choices choices choices. But you know what they say, I can lead you into the land of temptation, but I can't make you drink (or something like that.) Happy shopping and may the odds be EvEr in your favor.
Reader ML asks very politely [since she's Canadian get it], Hi! I've been looking for a pleated tea length or knee length skirt that's really flowy, but with a non-elastic and sort of wide waistband. I'd like something in either black or gray, or a summery colour, maybe a mint or coral or lavender? I would consider a patterned one. I've only been able to find ones with elastic waistbands, and they are not flattering on me. I usually wear a size 10 or 12, and I'm in Canada, so hopefully from a store that either ships here, or is located here. I'd pay up to $150 (including shipping and duties!), though preferably at or below $100. Thanks!So, if you follow my Tumblr, which of course you should, you'll know that I had to do a little independent research for this one on which retailers are actually in Canada and which one's ship to Canada (though I'm going to try to avoid that since I hate buying something and paying most of the cost in shipping.) But, I also found Shopstyle Canada, which might be useful for you ML and my other readers in the friendly land to the north. But - enough about process, I know you just come here for results. So here they are! Tradition MD Pleaded Skirt in coral from Sears Canada ($34.99 - I like this one! Exactly what you're looking for I think, right in budget, and it comes in black, coral, and turquoise. I might get all three. Attn other readers - comes in plus sizes as well!) Corey Lynn Calter Desi Blocked Midi skirt in purple, rust, coral at Couture Candy ($129.00 - expensive yes, but more interesting than the other ones - comes in another color pattern as well.) Worthington Accordian Pleated Skirt with contrasting waistband in white at JC Penny ($14 on clearance - so I actually prefer the black version of this, but the picture on the website the details were hard to see, so I used the white one so you could see it better. For my tall readers, this comes in tall as well.) ASOS Sleeveless Midi Dress with Pleated Skirt and Belt in green at ASOS ($54.99 - okay I know this is a dress, but its beautiful and has just the skirt you're looking for, comes in green, orange, and navy, and ASOS ships to Canada for free. I'm actually thinking of buying this green one for myself, that's how much I like it.) ASOS Midi Skirt in Pleated Lace at ASOS ($54.30 - okay, this row is basically just my rebel row - but this is so cute I thought I'd share it - available in both coral and navy.) Lauren by Ralph Lauren Colorblock Pleated Skirt at Hudson's Bay ($50.99 - limited sizes available but yours is one of them Reader ML - I'm not sure how I feel about the pleats not being on the sides of this skirt though. A bit odd.) Okay ML - those are my favorites - hope one of them works for you. Have fun shopping for a lovely pleated confection for all your summer skirt having needs. :-)
Reader Gail the Goldfish solicits:Hi! I'm looking for a basic medium-grey wool or wool-blend suit. Think lawyer interview suit. I've tried the usual suspects of Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, and Talbot's, and everyone's jackets are just too long right now. The leading contender is the J.Crew super 120s 1035 jacket and pencil skirt in heather flannel grey, but it's still on the long side, so before I pull the trigger, maybe you can find something I'm missing. I'd like to keep it under $350 for jacket/skirt, and if it had a pants option as well, that'd be a bonus. I'm a 0/2 on top and 4/6 (usually a 6 lately) on bottom, so separates are a must. Thanks!So first, if I may, a picture of the main contender. (For reasons that escape me - J-Crew doesn't seem to have taken a picture of the 120s pencil skirt on the model in the heather grey....but I'm sure you can envision it in all of its heather grey glory.) So - basic interview suits. They are an essential wardrobe staple for anyone going into a "business"-like or law field (my friends in academia tell me they get buy just fine without them...I can't quite get my mind around that fact.) Now, I think suiting is one of the few places where women could take some sartorial lessons from our X-chromosome deficient brethren; generally as men move up in the world and start buying nicer suits, they also start getting those suits tailored as a matter of course. Yes there *are* men's off-the-rack suits, but even Men's Suits departments at stores like JC Penney have a tailoring department. So while I think the ideal would be for us to find The Suit that fits our body perfectly and makes us look trim and fitted in a comfortable suit, we might be better off finding a really nice suit that comes close and then getting it tailored so that it goes all the way. Does that make sense?
Okay - moving on. What I am getting from your question is that you are probably short of waist/torso and that you are finding that the popular brand suits, as epitomized by this J-Crew suit, are simply too long these days. Well, you are preaching to the choir sister. I made the mistake of buying one Ann Taylor suit that was too long in the torso and, needless to say, I never wear it because I feel like I'm wearing my mom's suit or something. (And I know I could just see my above rant about tailoring....but I have since acquired nicer suits so...) So - I am going to collect a few of my favorite places to find suits for people with slightly shorter torsos or with a more fitted blazer. One tip - some of these may be over the $350 retail - but they often go on sale - or you should hit up the outlets (the Brooks Brother's outlet brand is actually great and two of my interview suits comes from there.)
I'll start with Brooks Brothers (my favorite suiting - bar none - which has a few items that might work for you.) But - they are making it more than a little difficult for me to do my job - because all their pencil skirts are sold out on-line (bet they have them in-store though. Would be worth a call. Wool Two-Button Jacket at Brooks Brothers ($159.20 - I like that its still a full length jacket - not actively cropped - but it sits high enough on the waist that it won't make a short person look, well, super short. Nice construction as well.) Wool One-Button Jacket from Brooks Brothers ($159.20 - a nice, shorter waisted option. There is also a two-button wool jacket not available in your size on the website - but if you went into the store they might be able to track one down for you.) Lambswool Blazer in navy from Brooks Brothers ($139.20 - not at all what you were looking for - but I own this blazer - or a similar earlier version and it is the BEST purchase I've made in years. It is amazing for work or weekends and I love it so much. I should buy three more.) So as I said above, these options all come from the primary Brooks Brothers brand of suiting. But if you live near a BB outlet, I would go check out their outlet suits, they are made specifically for the outlet and so are cheaper (and I guess lower quality) - but I've never had any issues with them. Definitely at least worth a look see. Another place I would look for suits is Nordstroms, especially the Classiques Entier suits at Nordstroms. I especially like Nordies for this because, if you purchase from them and have (or open) a Nordies debit or credit card, you get a certain amount of tailoring for free. Here are a few of the suits there I like best. Classiques Entier Speckled Weave Jacket and Pencil Skirt at Nordstroms ($160.80 and $94.80 - though this jacket has a slightly different peplum cut, I think its still conservative enough to be considered an "interview" suit and would be quite flattering on someone who was short waisted - especially if you have a bit of an x-shape.) Classiques Entier Platine Weave Jacket and Pencil Skirt at Nordstroms ($160.80 and $94.80 - more traditional suit shape, but I like that its nipped in nicely at the waist and the light gray color would be very flattering for a lot of people.) Halogen Pinstripe Suit Jacket and Skirt in navy at Nordstroms ($70.80 and $41.40 - I'll confess, I know nothing about the Halogen suiting line - but the price is so good on this suit that I thought I'd throw it out there in case you were interested in giving a deal a chance.) Another few options for other places where you might find good fits are: Anne Klein Blazer and Pencil Skirt in gray at Macy's ($150 - Anne Klein has several nice, simple suits at Macy's - not 100% sure about quality but they look like decent interview suits and they come in separates.) Platinum Washable Wool Jacket (2-button) in navy at Jones NY ($229 - see matching skirt here.) Boss Black Juicy 6 Jacket ($356.98 - above budget - but maybe keep an eye on it if it goes on sale at the Annual Sale - because its a lovely suit and seems to really fit your needs.) Okay! That's enough suits for this morning. What do people think? Where do you get your interview suits? I know I've left out some obvious choices (Theory) - but I did it on purpose - those don't work as well for the shorter and stumpier amongst us. But feel free to share what the taller and willowier like too. We clothe everyone around these parts. :-) Happy shopping and may interviewing ever be in your favor.
Reader EM writes:
Hi TCFKAG, I love the blog and was hoping you could help me with a jewelry problem. I'm looking for a floral necklace that has delicate-but-realisticish blossoms. (This is really inspired by someone I saw years ago, didn't have the money to buy, but have never seen else.) The closest I've seen lately was actually in a Hart of Dixie episode. It's the necklace Lemon wore here: http://wornontv.net/1174/. But ideally, I'd be looking for something a tiny bit subtler. I'm open on color and style. Thank you! Em
Okay - this ask is SO well timed because I *just* saw a necklace like this the other day and thought it was lovely. Of course - I didn't bookmark it or anything so now I can't find it ANYWHERE, but now I'm going to work really hard to find alternatives. Also I'll offer up some other options as well! (And can we all agree that this is one of the best looks Lemon has ever rocked on the show? Its lovely AND modern - she so often looks like a total throwback but this is just wonderful.) Now a couple of randoms that are less related to what you like and are more just pretty. Bloom necklace with ruby briolette at SMV Designs on Etsy ($40 - I love the gold and ruby together.) Anne Klein Burst and Bloom Frontal Necklace at Nordstroms ($44 - not really floral - but the colors are just lovely.) Minimal Chic Polymer Clay Flower Necklace at Eri on Etsy (item actually sold - but check out her similar work - I love the different, modern take on the floral necklace.) Okay Reader EM! Hope these ideas help. I think lots of them are lovely and would be wonderful for the spring and the summer. I especially love how they could be dressed up for a cocktail look (ala Lemon) but could also be dressed down for work - for example with a black or navy sheath dress and a brightly colored cardigan in the summer. They'd also be a fun way to add a pop of interest to a jeans and blouse look on the weekends. Altogether an excellent look. Two thumbs up EM. Let me know if you choose any of them! :-)
Reader MJ submitted to my Tumblr and asked:
Hey--MJ from Corporette. I am looking for a white denim jean/pencil skirt which is on the longer side (e.g. not a miniskirt or short pencil skirt). Need size 14. Go! Love the new blog!
First, may I salute your brevity in question asking MJ. Short, sweet, and to the point. I'm assuming you probably mean something with an a-line cut or at least a not to tight pencil skirt (I find tight pencil skirt jean skirts to be wildly uncomfortable.) I may also throw in a couple options in other casual fabrics (maybe a linen or cotton) just in case there are some great options in non-denim jeans. All that being said - lets get to work! (Oh - and thanks for reading the blog and the tumblr - I love all my readers!) Essential Eyelet Skirt from Forever 21 ($19.80 - posting this because the pencil skirt looks more relaxed, no white skirt post is complete without an eyelet option, and the price is totally right ... especially if you think this is going to be a "sometimes wear" item.) Stretch-Cotton Zipper Pencil Skirt at Lord & Taylor ($79 - I like the shape since its a more structured a-line and cotton is a great fabric for summer. Might beat out denim in my book.) Calvin Klein Tweed Pencil Skirt at Lord & Taylor ($89.50 - this is probably not ideal for you Reader MJ - but I'm posting it for my readers who might want a more business casual or networking appropriate pencil skirt. I don't even mind the exposed zipper! Tips for those of you looking for these items, Ann Taylor, the Limited, and WHBM have a bunch of other beautiful white pencil skirts right now if you want to add that item to your work wardrobe.) Okay MJ....I hope these help. Perhaps you'll think outside the denim box? Though I think these denim options are kind of great. I personally cannot purchase any of these because they would have coffee, tomato sauce, or some other destructive material on them by the end of the day. So I salute you in your ability to wear white. Go forth and shop dear reader.
Reader KG writes:Hi TCFKAG! I'm attending an outdoor wedding next month that will be filled with a ton of my old high school friends. I've been searching for the perfect dress for a little while, and could use some help. I'm really looking for a 20s/Gatsby inspired dress. I found this one: Floating on Air Dress - hopefully no one buys the one medium they have left before you get a chance to answer!
My first question is whether it's appropriate for the wedding? I'm particularly worried about the color - is it too light/close to white? If it's appropriate, how would you style it? In particular, what about shoes?
While we at it (or if it's not right for a wedding), any suggestions for similar dresses? I'm normally size small/2 and very light colored/pale. For this dress, the $50 range is really my budget because I don't think I'd wear it very much.Before I get started with answering - here's the dress in question. I'll answer your first question first - I think its probably fine for a wedding. On the website it is described as "sky-blue" and it looks fairly blue here, so I think on the color you're probably safe. In terms of appropriateness otherwise, I think its lovely - though its maybe hinging a tiny bit on the dowdy side (I wish there was another color there.) I would definitely want to punch it up with some fun accessories and shoes to add a little bit of color and maybe even sparkle to it - but overall I think its a nice look. So first, let me offer up some shoe possibilities and a couple of jewelry options - then I will move on to a few other similar scallop dresses for your consideration. Enzo Aglioni Maiven Shoes at Macy's ($49.99 - I like the idea of a textured metallic - gives a little shine to the outfit while still being classic and not too crazy.) Pour La Victoire Case Mary-Jane Pump in Teal ($39.99-$249.99 - I think a mary-jane or a t-strap pump would be a great way to reference the era of the dress without being too literal.) Vince Camuto Lexis Pump at Designs by Stephene ($49.99 - these might be a little too high for you - and I'm not sure how you feel about the studded look - but I love the idea of a bright cobalt or navy shoe - I think a second shade of blue with this look would be awesome.) (If you like any of these specifically but want a different, similar recommendation, let me know.) Inlaid Hexagon Cuff at Lori's of Chicago ($36.95 - I like the idea of adding some color in a bracelet - either coordinated with the shoes or in a contrasting but still friendly color - purple would be another nice option.) Tortoise Box Bead Necklace from Forever 21 ($9.80 - check out all their options - they have amazing sales now.) Lacquered Twist Necklace in green and gold from Forever 21 ($6.80) As far sa other dresses - I didn't see much that I thought was particularly good in your aesthetic and in your price range. Readers, have you seen any similar dresses that you particularly like? And KG if you decide not to go with this dress, come on back and I'm sure I can find you something else. Hope these ideas help - and have fun at the wedding!
Blond Lawyer queries: Hi TCFKAG! Blonde Lawyer here. I'm at my wits end and figured you could help. I am looking for a "Boston Strong" or "I run for Boston" shirt in a sweat wicking material! I already have one Boston Strong shirt that I absolutely love, but it is cotton. Boston Strong Cotton The link says men's tee but it is actually the ladies' tee. I have a medium in this and it is quite snug. I want one I can wear to run 5k's in which is why the sweat wicking material is so important to me. I have only found one but I've been afraid it isn't going to be right on my body. I Run For Boston Wicking I think even in the small, the sleeves would be too long and it would be overall too big. I'm a 34DD but otherwise slender. In Champion running tank tops I wear a large. In target t-shirts I wear a medium. In Jones NY and Van Huessen I'm an extra small. Hope that helps. What can you find me!! Other bonuses: - I would love my purchase money to go to charity, at least in part. - Blue and yellow is my preference but I'm open to others - a running tank would be fine too - $40 or less preferablyThis is of course something I'm happy to help with. BL - I know you were pretty close to the finish line the day of the bombings so, I hope you're doing okay coping in the aftermath. I know everyone deals differently and it hasn't always been easy for me (let along my friends who were really close to the finish line as well.) I like that you're keeping running and remembering. It'll be good for the region and for you. But on to the shopping! I'll try to stick with blue and gold/yellow and ones that benefit charities. I'll also try to look for ladies cut shirts or at least men's cuts that don't look too....uncomfortable. :-) So lets see what we find.
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