Ask the Editor: Vol. III, No. 16

Maternity evening wear, navy blazers that don’t look like suit jackets, and shorts for an ‘old Mom’ are on offer today.  Let’s go to the mail bag for this edition of Ask the Editor.

A-

Can you help me find a pair of denim shorts that won’t make me look like an ‘old Mom’ trying to wear shorts?  

Thank you. Lee

First off, I won’t have that disparaging talk here.  ‘Old’ is in the eye of the beholder.  Don’t let society’s mistaken belief that only women in their 20s are vital and sexy take down your self esteem.  Women of any age can wear shorts, and there are lots of styles that flatter a myriad of body types.

My first suggestion would be to choose a longer inseam.  5″ is my ideal length.  I would also recommend choosing fun styles.  It’s summer, getting dresses should be a joy.

For denim shorts, Old Navy always has a wide selection of styles that are well-made for the price point.  I like these 5″ cut-offs in a light wash.  These white shorts are still available in plus-size.  And these $12 rolled front shorts are a great option.

If you don’t find something at Old Navy, Gap always has good choices.  Including these maternity options.

If you prefer chino shorts, J.Crew and J.Crew Factory are my go-tos, no exceptions.  J.Crew offers their 5″ short (also in plus) in more muted hues.  Factory is bringing the bright colors.

Belle/Abra:

Do you have a drugstore dupe for your Hourglass eyebrow pencil?  I bought it and loved it, but it’s too expensive to become a regular thing.  Thanks for the great recommendation.

Casey

I do love that Hourglass pencil, but she is not cheap.  To get a wider selection of hair colors, I think the Morphe Micro-Pencil is the best option.  Same thin pencil, spoolie at the end, long-wear formula.

Abra,

On behalf of pregnant women everywhere, thanks for incorporating tips on maternity wear. I’m only a few weeks behind you with my first – also an IVF baby – and due in late August, which brings me to my question: My cousin is getting married in late October and the dress code is black tie optional (which I always take as a chance to dress up – my husband will be in a tux).

I’ll be about two months postpartum and have no idea where to begin in planning for body shape, size, nursing or not, etc. Most maternity clothes I wear to work now are from I & I or Seraphine, but still have that extra soft, pregnancy-comfort texture (jersey, cotton, etc). Any recommendations you might have for black tie wear during the fourth trimester would be much appreciated – and, if not, we’ll navigate it somehow!

Thanks so much, K

My thought here is to buy a dress that you think you will feel comfortable in, so that you know you have something, and then try on a few more styles closer to the day.  That way, you’re not left stuck, but you also can change your plan, to fit your body or your mood, when you know how your body will look and feel.

I really like the neckline on this Seraphine navy gown.  The dress doesn’t read “maternity,” so it’s a good choice for post-partum.  And I’ve seen this style on Poshmark gently used, so the price tag doesn’t have to be a deal breaker.  In the same vein, I like this Grecian, one shoulder gown from Tiffany Rose.

Another option would be to size up in a gown with a wrap-dress style.  You can do a lot with a maxi-wrap, including adding statement jewelry and cool shoes.  And since the dress is adjustable, you can usually avoid shape wear if you don’t want to wear it. I adore this split sleeve wrap in deep green from Mac Duggal.  This Ralph Lauren Knot Front Gown also has a flattering style that would work well.

Hello Abra,

I found your blog from the New York Times article, and it’s what I always needed.  Can you help me find a relaxed navy blazer?  I have suit jackets, I need a blazer that is not a suit jacket.  I also want to spend $250 at most.

Can’t wait to hear back! Kaylee

This is an interesting question.  My first thought is a gold button, double breasted blazer like this one from Lioness.  I also like this one from Bar III with a puffed sleeve.

My beloved Cinq a Sept blazer is finally on sale, so it’s under $250 right now.  It comes in many colors, but the pushed up sleeve makes it look relaxed and cool.  I have the mid-slate-blue, but I would own them all.

And for one last option, I like this belted navy blazer from Ralph Lauren.  It’s a nice alternative to a regular jacket.  It looks very cool, thanks the the wider, substantial tie.

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