Ask Belle Roundup Vol. III, No. Eleven

Hi Belle,

Now that the weather is finally pleasant and warm, I’m going to be walking to work much more often. I would love to find a pair of shoes that are supportive and breathable, but not fashion faux-pas (of the white tennis shoe variety). Do you have any suggestions for cute commuting shoes?

Thanks! KH

If breathability is an issue, I would start with the Geox brand.  The soles are rubber, so they absorb shock making them comfortable.  They also are perforated so air will circulate and keep your feet dry and comfortable.  I love these beige ballet flats with a black toe cap, these beige and snakeskin flats and these gray toe cap flats.

I also found these open-toe black flats with a modern bow accent that would be lovely for work.

I’m always looking at women’s shoes on my commute to see what they’re wearing.  I see a number of women in shoes from French Sole, others in Yosi Samra flats and a lot of (mostly Southern) ladies in driving mocs.  I also see TOMS ballet flats quite frequently.

As for myself, I just bought these Corso Como flats.  I’m still breaking them in, but so far, so good.

Hi Belle!

Love the blog! 

I was wondering if you could offer me a little help with graduation dresses. I graduate from The Catholic University of America, here in the District, in May. I am looking for a dress to wear under my cap and gown for graduation Saturday 5/18 and that I can then wear to dinner with my family (I made a reservation at La Tomate).

Suggestions? Thanks. Sarah

First off, I give the same advice to all ladies graduating this year, no.strapless.dresses.  You’ll get hot, remove your cardigan and then you’ll look naked in nearly every photo you take.

Secondly, when possible, buy a natural fabric.  It’s not easy, but it can be done.  And if you’re graduation is outside (it’s so wrong how many D.C. schools hold this event outside), a breathable fabric is critical.  (If it’s not possible, spray your dress with a vodka and water dilution, purchase aerosol deodorant, go sleeveless and carry baby wipes and a mini-deodorant for touch ups.)

For your situation, you can’t do better than a cotton sheath.  Choosing a timeless and classic piece like this will allow you to express your personality through accessories while dressing for the occasion.  I LOVE this white lace sheath with waist detail that comes in regular and petites.  This printed sheath with contrast belt is also fantastic.  I also like this cobalt petite sheath with pleated shoulder.

Frankly, almost anything in the Nordstrom “work dress shop” would be a good choice.  But remember that this is also a party, so wear something that feels celebratory to you.

Hi Belle,

It’s about to be summer (though the weather might currently disagree). Where are good places to buy cute/conservative one pieces besides JCrew? I’m no longer young/skinny enough to pull off a bikini but the JCrew one piece selection is already running out of colors and sizes.

Thanks, Monica

My squishy mid-section will need a one piece this year as well.  Too many Girl Scout cookies, not enough time to work out.  That’s for sure.  And while J.CREW has some lovely options (I like this one and this one), they do sell out somewhat quickly.

Shopbop has a lot of stylish one pieces, though they tend to be on the pricey side.  Zappos also has a lot of athletic and style options.  I can find anything at Nordstrom.  Also, if you want a one-piece with a bit of sex appeal, try PacSun.  I especially like this one with a flouncy top to give me the illusion of cleavage, emphasis on illusion.

Also, don’t forget about the tankini.  They were big in the 90s for their more modest two-piece look, and Victoria’s Secret has some nice choices in this style.

Belle, 

If you could only have three skincare products, which three would you choose?

Cierra

I cannot live without my iS Clinical Active Serum.  It has great anti-aging benefits, and it really helps keep my acne flare ups to a minimum.  It’s my favorite product.

I would also choose my Ole Henriksen Express the Truth moisturizer; it’s nourishing without being too heavy.  And I love, love, love Kiehl’s Creme de Corps body lotion.  I used to have really dry skin, and it gave me the baby softest skin ever.

Oh, and if I could get a skincare tool to go with all of that, it’s the Clarisonic with the acne brush head and the acne soap.  If you have breakouts, even if you don’t buy the machine, buy the soap.  It’s the only acne soap that I’ve ever used that clears skin but doesn’t turn it flaky and dry.