Ask the Edit: Vol. V, No. Sixteen

Today, I’m answering some fantastic reader questions.  From a new mom who needs a one-piece swimsuit to a bargain shopper who needs to style her new purple blazer.  Those questions and more await in this week’s Ask the Edit.

Dear Belle,

I’ve lost my beloved trusty denim jacket. I’m in the market for a new one but the search has only turned up pieces that are very boxy and unflattering or VERY edgy/trendy with too much distressing or adornment. I’d like something with a darker wash, with some stretch and a flattering fit that I can wear with casual wear and dresses – something classic with a little twist? Any ideas? thanks, love the blog!

– Lauren

I love a good jean jacket.  Maybe it’s the Montanan in me, but a jean jacket with a turned up sleeve and a sundress is what summer is made of.  So let’s shop!

For a dark jacket, I found this Mavi jacket and this J Brand jacket.  For an edgy classic, the Levi’s trucker jacket in a medium wash is a good choice.  For something under-$50, try this Melrose & Market jacket or this Old Navy jacket (also in plus).

Abra,

Do you have a drugstore hairspray that you like?  I don’t have the money for Drybar, but the D.C. humidity is coming and I need help.  

Lisa

The best inexpensive hairspray on the market is Freeze It.  It’s the number one love of all the big-haired pageant girls out there.  If you can’t find it, Elnett is a close second.

Hi Belle,

I was fortunate enough to be chosen for a prestigious national early career award in my field of work. Recipients of the award will be recognized at an afternoon/early evening ceremony and cocktail reception in June. It’s a somewhat conservative crowd. Do you have any advice on type of dress, shoes, and accessories? And any general advice on what colors to wear and how to do one’s makeup accordingly?

Thanks! -Anonymous

For makeup, you’re looking for subtle glamour.  Something like Lisa Eldridge’s classic makeup look.

The event is in the afternoon, so no cocktail attire.  I would choose a simple dress in a solid color.  I recommend the MM.LaFleur Taylor dress (I own it in three colors, and love all of them.).  Another option would be a wrap dress like this dark green J.Crew or this $35 purple wrap from Macy’s.  I also like this Donna Morgan dress for under-$50.

Plus-size? This City Chic wrap dress has a beautiful deep teal color.  Or try this refined ponte sheath (also in petites).

Hi Belle,

Hoping you can help with what seems to be an impossible request. I’m looking for work pants in black/navy/gray to wear as separates that are skinny and not cropped. I’m a taller gal (5’11”) and I’d like pants that I can wear with flats or heels around 2″, but again, not cropped.I love a ponte pant, but I don’t want to look like I’m wearing leggings with a work blouse. Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance! Anon

The difficulty is that the traditional length for a skinny pant is ankle length.  But ankle is longer than the traditional cropped length which is usually 1-2″ shorter.

You’re best bet would be a ponte pant made specifically for teal women.  The J.Crew Any Day pant comes in a tall length with a 29.5″ inseam.  Ann Taylor’s tall ponte pants come with a 30.5″ inseam.  Chico’s has a ponte pant with a 31″ inseam.  But, the longest inseam on any ponte pant I found was Old Navy, with a 33″ inseam.

Hi Belle –

Last summer I had a baby and couldn’t fit into any of my non-maternity clothes. With this summer coming up, I have some vacations planned where I will be in a bathing suit. All my bathing suits are two pieces, and I don’t feel like they are appropriate given that I’m now a mom, plus they don’t fit the same. What do you recommend? I have a small bust,  a small pooch that hasn’t gone away, and some extra heft in my thighs. 

Thanks, Michelle

If you’re not feeling great about your body, your best choice is a one piece in a bright color.  Something fun and playful that makes you feel happy.

This laser-cut one-piece swimsuit from Merona is wonderful.  Gapfit also has a really fun striped one-piece swimsuit.  This LOFT ruffle-front halter is also fantastic.  And for a little more lift, J.Crew has an under-wire swimsuit in several colors.

Plus-size?  This smooth and slim underwire suit from Old Navy and this coral Charlotte Russe suit both caught my eye.

Hi Belle,

I just picked up this blazer during Banana Republic’s 40% off sale.  How would you style it for work? For church and brunch?

Thanks!  -J

For Work.  Navy pencil skirt + White bow-neck blouse + Navy pumps

For Church. White fit-and-flare dress + Dark purple pump + push-up the sleeve

For Brunch. Ruffle camisole + Distressed boyfriend jean + Silver sneakers

The key to wearing a colored blazer is neutral separates.  Reach into your closet and put on your favorite neutral (beige/grey/black/navy/white) outfit, then add the jacket.  You basically have to play dress-up inside your own wardrobe.

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