Ask the Editor: Vol. IV, No Twenty-Three

This week, we have a wedding dress search coming up empty, cell phone slings that don’t suck, sunscreen tips for kids, and more. Let’s take a peek in the reader mail bag.

Hi Abra,

My fiancé and I are eloping in September.  We planned a big trip to the South of France and we are marrying in the hotel’s garden with just our parents and two friends in attendance.  I have searched everywhere for a dress.  My MOH thinks I’ve tried on 100+.  

I want something elegant but memorable.  Not a gown.  Preferably without sequins or lace.  I’d like to be able to rewear it on our anniversary so not so formal it can’t come out of the bag.  Budget is $2,500.  Is this asking too much?

Hope you had fun in D.C. ~ Elise

Best wishes on your marriage.  When I first read your question, the first dress that popped into my head is this one from Erdem.  It has a lovely vintage, Casablanca vibe to it.  This Emilia Wickstead is an absolute classic with clean lines.  If you want something more playful, I recommend this Self-Portrait dress, which is under-$750.  

Those are the shorter dresses.  Now, I know you said no gowns, but I am going to make two gown suggestions that could easily be shortened.  Why?  Because I have seen these two dresses in person, and they feel like the vibe you’ve described.  Have a look at this pearl and sheer gown and this crystal embellished gown with a halter neck. 

From the DMs: How did you grow your eyebrows back in?  Serum? 

In 2012, I got serious about bringing back my brows.  It’s been a process.  This GrandeLash serum helped me tremendously.  I don’t use it as often as I should, but if I use it for just a week straight, I see some growth.  But what really made a difference was learning to sleep on my back, since sleeping on my stomach and side pulled out small amounts of hair.

Hello,

You mentioned something about a brush to apply sunscreen to Sloane.  What?  Help me.  My toddler won’t hold still for SPF.  

Lauren

Those handled makeup brushes are the easiest way to apply sunscreen to your child.  We call it her Magic Brush and tell her it protects her from the sun.  We bought this set, so she “helps” with the smaller one and we use the bigger one.  It also helps if they see Mom and Dad applying it with the brush too.

Abra,

Can you suggest an intern gift under-$50?  We need a gender neutral gift.

Thanks, Benni

My preferred intern gifts are useful.  I still have the bookends I received as my gift in 2005.  Agate, marble and stoneware are all good choices.  Another great option is a padfolio in junior or full size.   Lastly, one of my best friends is giving his interns Owala bottles.  He bought them for his spring interns and they were obsessed.

From the DMs:  Have you tried any of the SPF serums or SPF drops?  I see them everywhere.

I ordered several brands in the spring.  Most of them were a big thumbs down; I either ended up with a pale death mask or they felt sticky all day.  But one brand — UltraViolette — did live up to the hype.  I liked the Illuminating drops because they made me look alive even after the long night.  

Hi Abra,

I need a phone sling that won’t make me, judge me.  Something not hideous.  Thank you in advance.

FG

Bandolier makes the nicest ones.  They are also customizable with different straps and accessories, like small wallets and AirPod slings.  For an under-$25 choice, this one from Amazon is perfect because it comes with a built in wallet that snaps closed.

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