Dear Belle,

I am headed to the beach with my family for the 4th.  I’m really excited for a few days out of D.C., but I cannot find a swimsuit.  After two kids, my body isn’t really built for a two-piece anymore and the one pieces I tried on were either boring or cut for a Baywatch lifeguard.  Please tell me you’ve seen a few nice ones.  

Thank you, Jenna

Athleta has some great swimsuits this season.  They have a nice selection of tankinis and bikinis.  For one-piece suits, they have a few choices, but their Aqualuxe halter has a classic shape.  For something more modern that bridges the one/two piece gap, this break-tie one-piece is fun.

For something trendy and feminine, this off-the-shoulder Mossimo suit is awesome.  It’s also affordable.  This strapless Tommy Bahama shirred suit is very flattering.  Tommy Bahama also makes a cute suit with a tie front.

Plus-size?  This scalloped black and white suit is cute.  I also like this watermelon print suit.  Petite?  This Anne Klein smocked suit is festive.  ASOS makes this classic halter suit.

Hi Abra,

My husband and I have an anniversary tradition that I need your help with.  I pick a pair of earrings, he buys them, and I wear them to our anniversary dinner.  I usually choose a pair of work appropriate earrings so I can keep wearing them.  This year, I’d like to choose something special.  My budget is less than $150.

Your suggestions are really appreciated.  AL

I love this!  What a nice tradition.  These sculptural Alexis Bittar drops are absolutely gorgeous.  (I’ve had them on my wish list for weeks.)  These unique Rebecca Boulevard wraparound earrings come in emerald/gold and aqua/rhodium.  These pearl and rose gold ear jackets are a modern option.  If you want something playful, these Tory Burch beaded tassel earrings are great.

Hi Belle,

I’m looking for a bag I can carry to and from work. I need one that can fit my laptop without it being too large and bulky. I have a Dagne Dover tote now but it’s a bit large and I’m looking for something new. Any suggestions?

Thanks! Lindsay

This Knomo London slim briefcase in navy and black is very chic.  This Solo Bradford bag is more casual, but quite affordable.  The Lo & Sons TT Tote is also very popular.  While these are all nice choices, the one I would buy for myself is this sale-priced Rebecca Minkoff Always On Regan Tote.

Hello,

My future mother-in-law invited me to the family’s beach cottage, and while I’m looking forward to it, I am nervous about my sleeping attire.  Maybe it’s a weird thing to worry about.  I need two sets of pajamas and a robe.  They need to be family appropriate but not too hot, as there’s no A/C.

Thank you for the help, SA

This is not weird.  It’s good that you’re giving this some thought.  Tight quarters, shared bathrooms, early breakfasts, good pajamas are essential.  I like short sets for summertime.  These Nikrooz short pajamas are feminine and pretty.  I love this pineapple-printed Gap short set.  This PJ  Salvage star-print set is cute.

As for a robe, Nordstrom Rack is a great place to look.  This Natori blossom-print robe is very pretty.  I also own two of these Josie robes; they’re printed, light, and easy to pack.  This Eberjey robe is also really nice.