Ask the Editor: Vol. IV, No. 25

Do I feel better? After six days of antibiotics, innumerable puffs of my inhaler, and more “immunity shots” than I can count, I would have to. I’m stuck in that weird limbo where you feel better, but better than half dead is still not great. So let’s set aside my need to think creatively and reach into the reader mail bag to answer your burning questions.

Hello,

My hair is looking and feeling so dry now that winter is here.  Do you have any recommendations for a deep or leave in conditioner?  Something under-$15 would be best.

Emily

For a leave-in product, I buy this detangling conditioner for my daughter but end up using it myself more than I’d like to admit.  The formulation is very moisturizing without weighing hair down.  It’s designed for curly hair, but it seems to work on any texture.

For a deep conditioner, I use Briogeo Don’t Despair Repair, and I buy it in the smaller size because 1) I hate reaching into a tub of conditioner, and 2) I this 2 oz. tube actually lasts me 2-3 months with weekly use.  For many years, I used the Davines Spotlight Circle conditioner (and this post has me thinking maybe I need to buy a tube).  If you want a true drugstore option, I still like Aussie 3-Minute Miracle. 

Where can I find a pair of chocolate brown, suede, high heeled tall boots for under-$125?

Literally the only pair I found are at Ann Taylor.  $95, selling fast, and worth every penny.

Ask the Editor Q:

Well, it happened to me. I am facing a layoff and a job hunt. I’ve been working remotely since 2020 and did my latest job hunt virtually, but I’ll be looking at in-person opportunities as well.

I haven’t worn a suit (or really, business attire at all) since two kids (and two c sections) ago. Would love a suit that I could dress up and down, since some opportunities may be more casual. Though I’m getting a severance, would love to put that toward daycare bills and not my wardrobe, so under $300 please!

Thanks, K

First off, I am sorry for this bad turn.  I hope you find something quickly.  As for a suit, let’s talk about some options.

Under-$300 is a tough price point, but let’s see what we can find.  Dillard’s is the best place to search for a suit in this price point.  For a simple black suit in this price point, I like this Antonio Milani pant suit.  If you don’t like black, this burgundy suit from Anne Klein is a nice option.  

Macy’s is another great place to shop for affordable suits.  Donna Karan has this cool, dramatic belted suit.  It’s a little bit of glamour.  This Anne Klein suit with gold buttons comes in several colors and has a modern look to it.  Plus-size?  This is the place to shop for suits.

If any other readers are looking for a suit with a more casual jacket, I own this Cinq-a-Sept Khloe Crepe Blazer with the straight leg pants.  It’s a more relaxed suit.  The pushed up sleeves on the jacket give it a cool vibe, and the pants go with anything else you have in your wardrobe.

Can you help me find a housewarming gift for my Mother In Law?  She demands everyone bring a gift to Thanksgiving.  Actually requires it because it’s “good manners.”  My partner suggests $100 as a budget and she prefers the goods be for the actual house.

Okay, household items that make nice gifts for $100 or so.  This cheese cloche/cake plate from Crate & Barrel.  If she drinks wine, this wine aerator comes highly recommended by a close friend.  Quince has these incredible bamboo sheets that are also just under-$100.  

The other option is a nice holiday wreath.  I own this dried citrus and evergreen wreath from Terrain and it’s lovely.

Abra,

I need a gift for my niece and I think you’re the perfect person to ask.  She’s three and I’m told needs winter clothes.  No Carter’s, no Target.  Thoughts?

Hannah

Nordstrom always has cute things.  This Fair Isle sweater from Tucker + Tate is pretty cute.  I also like Maisonette, which is a bit fancier for kids clothes and toys.  I’m told this quilted jacket is quite warm and their Colored Organics line has pretty, easy basics.

Can you help me find the link to that Amazon cardigan that was the Sezane dupe?

The Sezane Betty Cardigan is a cool girl favorite.  Many retailers have good dupes for it.  Quince makes one.  So does Loft (also in petite).  But for my money, the Amazon jacket is still the best.  The most colors and the easiest to wear.

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