Dear Belle,

I’m looking for a neutral clutch to carry this summer. I don’t want a metallic because I’m not flashy, but I don’t want it to be boring.  Do you have some suggestions?

Thanks for everything, Di

Metallics are a great neutral, but they’re not for everybody.  If you’re looking for something with less sparkle, I own this J.CREW cork clutch.  It’s very versatile, and I get a lot of compliments on it.

If you want something with more structure, I like this Mango woven clutch and this Urban Expressions one with stone clasp.  Foldover clutches are also really hot right now.  I found this taupe one with tassel detail and this croc-embossed one from Rachel Roy’s Macy’s line.

And, as always, whenever I want a new clutch, I always start at ASOS. I found this edgy two-tone clutch with gold plate for under-$50.  And I love this large flap clutch in tan snakeskin for under-$50 as well.

Hi Belle!

So, I’m a bridesmaid in a wedding in VA this summer — I totally remember your giving great summer make up tips (to avoid everything sweating off) but can’t seem to find it!  Or maybe if this doesn’t exist, I’m wondering: what are your best tips for keeping make up looking fresh during the DC summer?

Thanks so much, S

I believe this is the post you wanted. But if you want the Cliff’s Notes version, humidity-proof primer on face and eyes with a light application of setting powder re-applied throughout the day.

I like NARS Pro Prime in oil free, but a lot of readers have expressed their adoration for Makeup Forever HD MicroPerfecting Primer. As for eye primer, again, I’m on the NARS bandwagon but commenters on several posts have promoted Urban Decay.

As for powder, I use Laura Mercier translucent powder by applying it to a large puff that I can stick in my clutch so I get an airbrushed finish.  Just blot off any sweat, and then lightly press the pouf into the skin.

Hey,

I bought this emmaleigh dress in super 120 at Jcrew.  I’m trying to figure out a good jacket option. The Jcrew jackets available don’t seem to go really well with a dress. Thoughts?

Thanks! I enjoy reading the blog and being inspired.

The Emmaleigh dress is a great basic sheath, but when women pair the dress with the “matching” suit jacket, it goes from feminine to dated and matronly fast.  If I were trying to pair the dress with a blazer, I would look at draped neck jackets first and then, maybe  peplum or longline blazer.

If you have a bit of money to invest, I would look at the Becky jacket from Rebecca Minkoff or this ivory number from Haute Hippie. And if you’re looking to save, I found this blazer at Nordstrom and this fuchsia one on sale, both under-$100.

As for peplums, I like this black Rebecca Taylor jacket, and if you’re feeling extravagant, this Burberry one.  If you’re looking for something under-$100, try this cobalt jacket from Piperlime or this peplum-back jacket from Victoria’s Secret.  A longline blazer could give the dress a more relaxed feel.  Try this white one from Forever 21 or this blush one from Dorothy Perkins.