Ask Belle Roundup Vol. III, No. Ten
Apr 1, 2013
Hi Belle,
I’m searching for a new pair of pearl earrings. I can’t afford to spend more than $100, but I want a pair that looks nicer than the price I paid for them. Ideas?
Lana
I wear a pair of pearl studs from J.CREW. They’re $50, a good size and they look pretty.
Belle,
Here is my question: My boyfriend is on the shorter side and I really prefer not to wear heels when we go to events together. We have several weddings coming up this spring/summer and I’m struggling to find nice flat shoes that are dressy enough to wear with wedding attire. Do you have any suggestions for a versatile flat sandal that I can wear with different dresses?
Thanks!! C.
I’d start your search with a metallic flat sandal. I found this toe ring sandal with crushed gold accents, and this gold sandal with crystal stone embellishments. I own these rose gold sandals from Maiden Lane, and they’re pretty–but be aware, they are quite shiny. But I think the real winner is this short silver wedge (under an inch) with a crystal studded bow on the strap.
If you’d prefer something in a tan or beige color, these Loeffler Randall sandals are on the pricey side, but they’re gorgeous. These accented beige sandals have just a short heel. And I also like these patent Prada knockoffs from Dorothy Perkins.
Dear Belle,
Can you recommend a trench coat that costs $200 or less? I’m looking for a traditional khaki coat.
I appreciate the help. SF
Madewell has a very stylish trench in your price range. London Fog and Calvin Klein also make great basic trenches. And this coat from Gap looks like the best option for under-$100. If you’re looking for a different size, I found this petite trench at Target and this plus size trench from Land’s End.
Have a basic khaki trench? Why not buy a colored one? I found this bold pink, this bright red and vibrant yellow.
Hi,
I remember you wrote a post about your favorite mascara. Can you remind me what it was? I’m in dire need of a mascara that doesn’t smudge.
Thank you, Belle!
Parker
I order Max Factor 2000 Calorie Mascara from overseas. It’s a little obsessive, but I love it that much. As for readily available options, my second favorite mascara is CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara.
I just bought that bright yellow Via Spiaga trench a few weeks ago. It runs a tad big, but is a stand-out color. I’ve only worn it twice and have already gotten so many compliments– especially on a grey rainy day, it’s nice to have the bright color!
Good to know.
FYI – I tried on that Madewell trench the other day and it wasn’t what I expected from the photos. Very boxy and baggy. I even tried it on in a size smaller than I usually wear and it was still very loose fitting. The detailing and material were nice, but if you’re aiming for a more traditional trench this isn’t it (at least in my opinion).
I have these pearls from Banana Republic and they are very nice for only $30: https://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=33437&vid=1&pid=370880002
I have these too, as well as the matching necklace. I like them a lot, and BR always runs sales.
FYI on the trench coats: I got one from Zara that’s well-made and under $100 on sale (maybe about $130 now). Sometimes they even have bolder colors like a berry red in the basic style, so keep an eye out.
it may sound weird, but i bought pearl studs off amazon. they were really cheap and definitely look more expensive than they are.
though the word of caution is that maybe they don’t match in shape/size. i’ve ordered 2 pairs and lucked out both times.
https://www.amazon.com/Stainless-Steel-Freshwater-Earrings-Hypoallergenic/dp/B003ILO41O
Shoes for C
C, I don’t know if you’re only wanting flats, but if you’re in the market for a 2″ heel my I suggest two pairs I recently purchased for upcoming weddings and parties. I got these Lillt Pulitzer kitten heels with a great bow on them for a wedding next weekend: https://www.lillypulitzer.com/product/Accessories-Shoes/Shoes/entity/pc/61/c/62/5624.uts?swatchName=Nude
And I just ordered these sandals from Kate Spade: https://www.katespade.com/darcey-sandal/S558606R,en_US,pd.html?dwvar_S558606R_color=786
I found Max Factor on Overstock.com. Works like a charm and FAR less than paying international shipping – https://www.overstock.com/Health-Beauty/MaxFactor-2000-Calorie-Rich-Black-Waterproof-Mascara-Pack-of-4/7707576/product.html
Parker — I wear all waterproof eye makeup (liner and mascara). I like Maybelline’s Full & Soft waterproof if you already have curly lashes. If your lashes have a tough time holding a curl (like me), I prefer Maybelline’s The Falsies (the original one) waterproof. It holds a curl, separates and thickens, and stays put. I love it.
When they come back in stock, I HIGHLY recommend this pearl set. I have a color for everyday and they’re a great size!
https://www.qvc.com/Honora-Cult-Freshwater-Pearl-Set-of-7mm-Sterling-Studs.product.J32635.html