Hey! Long time no see, Ask the Editor.  Since your queries are filling my inbox, it’s time to start digging out.  You asked, I answered.  From swim cover-ups to flats for weddings and dry shampoo, let’s chat.

I had knee surgery recently and cannot wear heels. Can you suggest some cute flats/sandals that I can wear to weddings, etc this summer?

– Lauren 

If you’re headed to a cocktail wedding, these crystal Betsey Johnson flats and these BHLDN gold t-strap flats are geared toward evening.  For something more fun, I love these Badgley Mischka crystal flat sandals.

Need something more casual?  These Sam Edelman d’Orsay flats in metallic would work.  These under-$50 taupe flats from Journee are also a nice option.

Hi Abra,

Congrats on your engagement! I saw in the comments a while back that you had seen some nice moissanite rings on Etsy. I have been wearing my late mother’s wedding set since I got married, but it hasn’t felt right. I haven’t been able to kick the feeling that I’m wearing “her” jewelry, not my own. So my husband and I have been ring shopping several years into marriage. I’m really drawn to moissanite and I’m wondering if you could make some recommendations.

Thanks, Bethany

Moissanite is a silicon carbide that is sometimes used in jewelry instead of diamonds.  Recently, it has grown in popularity because it’s shiny and conflict-free.

East West Gem Co. is one of the more popular Moissanite retailers on Etsy.  This Harlow ring, an octagonal Asscher cut, had initially cut my eye.  I didn’t want anything too big, like I was trying to pretend it was a diamond, but I adored this cut.

If you’re looking for something simpler, the Love Forever shop has classic styles.  This bezel-set ring also caught my eye.

As for what I would have chosen, MinimalVS is my favorite Etsy retailer for engagement rings.  They have all kinds of non-diamond choices in cool shapes.  Her nesting wedding bands are my favorite.

Hey Abra!

I was invited to speak at a conference in a few weeks. I’m a featured speaker and will be on stage for about 20 minutes, standing and giving a talk. What do you recommend for an outfit that looks professional and put together but not too formal? Thanks in advance!

– Beth 

I always like a simple dress in a bold color.  You want to stand out, and a color like red or cobalt will help you do that.

This Black Halo Jackie O dress in cobalt is a wonderful choice.  This Boden Ottoman dress in cobalt is also a nice choice.  Like red?  This Donna Morgan dress and this Calvin Klein flutter sleeve dress are both fabulous.  Need a plus-size selection?  Don’t miss this Maggy London dress.

Hi Belle,

Would you do a post on beach cover ups? Thanks!

– Stephanie B

There are basically four ways you can go with a coverup:

1. The Classic Shirt.  This can be a men’s shirt, or a coverup designed to look like a men’s shirt.  This Tommy Bahama coverup and this Seafolly shirt both fit the bill.
2. The Sarong.  For those who just want to cover their lower half, the sarong is a nice option.  I like this striped and pom-trimmed one from Shopbop.  You can also tie a sarong in different ways with this tutorial.
3. The Caftan.  This Michael Stars coverup has a gauzy, summery feel in a caftan shape.  If you don’t want a maxi style, try a shorter tunic style.  These styles give you a lot of coverage, if that’s what you prefer.
4. The Simple Dress. Tank dresses are a great option.  They’re easy, packable and you can wear them around post-beach.  This Old Navy dress and this Caslon dress would also work.

Choose the one that’s right for you based on coverage needs, personal taste, and what else you plan to do.  I usually choose something that I can wear to lunch or shopping after.

Hi Abra,

You promoted some dry shampoo a few weeks ago, and I can’t find the post.  Which one are you using right now?

Karlie

Drybar’s new Detox Invisible Dry Shampoo is my everything.  It’s the only dry shampoo I’ve ever been able to use for more than two consecutive days without major scalp itching.  It’s a lifesaver.

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