Ask Belle Roundup Vol. III, No. Four

Dear Belle,

I am in the market for a great one piece bathing suit. I have quite a few bikinis, but would like something different this season. I had my heart set on this stunning number from Zimmermann’s line last summer. However, I cannot find it anywhere (and am KICKING myself for not buying it last season!). Have you come across anything similar, or have any recommendations for a great one piece bathing suit? 

Jessica

I’m headed to a warm destination soon myself, and I’ve been looking at one piece swimsuits myself.  If you like high neck suits like your example, this crochet number is pretty cool.  I also like this cutout suit with fringe.  And this halter style has a bit of vintage feel.

Looking for color?  This colorblocked suit has a mix of neutrals and brights.  I also love this ruched, yellow strapless suit.  And if you need something under-$50, this Old Navy suit is a good choice.

I’ve also been looking at a few two piece suits.  A girl needs to have options, right?  This berry-colored fringe bikini has a bit of boho chic.  And if you want a teeny-weenie yellow polka dot bikini, this Madewell one is pretty sweet.

Hi Belle,

I’ve been following your blog for a while and noticed that you’ve never included Tory Burch’s Reva flats in any of your posts. What are your thoughts?  Do you dislike them or do you feel the like price point is (justifiably) too high for most readers?

Warmly,
Emily

Despite the fact that Revas are something of a D.C. staple, I’ve never warmed to them.  The first reason is that I don’t like to wear clothing that makes me a walking billboard for a clothing brand, and with that giant medallion, I would feel like an advertisement.  The second is that, with an elastic back and round toe, Revas fall into more of a casual category.  And if I wanted to buy a casual flat, I’d save some money and invest in a pair of Yosi Samra flats or a pair of Block ballet flats.

That being said, some women swear by them.  But I would prefer to wear something with structure, like these patent leather Kate Spades, these Sigerson Morrison’s or these inexpensive leopard print cap-toe flats from Forever 21.

Hi Belle!

I recently paid off my credit card (yay!) after two moves and a wedding. I have been saving 2 years of credit card cash rewards to gift myself a prize once it was paid off in full and now I’m ready to cash them in (around $1000) on something special. I’m thinking it’s time to treat myself to an “investment” handbag but I don’t know which route to go. Do I get a Louis or Goyard, or something more fashion forward and less “label-ey?” I’m looking for something that will last me years, and isn’t something that will go out of style in a season. Would love your input!

Love your blog – I check it daily!

xo, Kate

Lucky girl! But it sounds like you worked hard for that reward.  

The first thing I would recommend is not to choose a handbag with a signature print (Louis, etc.).  The reason is that there are so many fake signature print designer bags out there that its really diluted the appeal.  That said, if you find one that has a more minimal style like this Yves Saint Laurent tote or this Michael Kors, that might be an option.

As for fashion forward brands to check out, what about a Reed Krakoff Boxer bag?  It comes in several combinations, everything from all black to orange neon, so you’ll easily find one that suits you.  You could also look at a Pashli satchel from 3.1 Phillip Lim, or an Alexander Wang tapered tote.

But if it were my selection, I would 100% choose a Mulberry bag.  The Bayswater would be my first choice, so classic. The Alexa, my second.

If you’re really interested in an expensive bag, however, I would keep an eye on Gilt Groupe.  You might be able to save a few bucks.  I would also check Bluefly for discounts.  I like this Tod’s bag and this Miu Miu.

But truth be told, I would probably go for a mid-price tote–something in the $300-$600 range and save the rest of the money.  Some suggestions include the Coach Legacy satchels, the Michael Kors Hamilton satchel or the new Rebecca Minkoff Darcy Satchel designed with the help of the ladies from PurseForum.com.

Belle,

You’ve talked before about how you use a round brush to style your hair.  I bought one recently at the drugstore and it tore up my hair.  What kind do you use?

Thanks, Ellen

I use a Spornette brush.  I use a 3″ brush on my hair, and a 2″ brush on my bangs.  If you prefer boar bristles, CHI also makes a nice brush with a ceramic barrel.  Any brush is going to catch a few hairs, but I find that using a bit of Light Moroccan Oil on my ends helps keep the heat damage at bay.