Maybe it’s the longer days. Maybe it’s the coming spring. Maybe it’s that it’s Friday, and I’m headed home to see Sloane. But today, the world feels just a little less bleak.
Yes, the political landscape looks like Thanos just landed. Yes, the revelations in the Epstein files have me searching for a cabin in the woods in Lincoln, MT to hide away in. And yes, the peer pressure to eat enough protein continues to torture every woman over 30. But I left work at 5:30PM yesterday and briefly saw a glimmer of sun on my walk to the parking garage, so let me have this.
My brain is still healing from working past 9:00PM five out of six nights, and then tossing in an all day Saturday session for good measure. So let’s take a mental break and answer some questions from the mail bag.
Hello! I love CHS, and have been a reader for years and years. Do you have recommendations for similar creators who make content for people in warmer climates? Your Montana and Washington looks make me jealous, but I need ideas for 80-degree February days.
Thanks! Rebekah
Fair. The Docket Blog and CRG Law both live in Texas, they both offer suggestions for warmer climates. If readers have other suggestions, please leave them in the comments. I’m always looking for more inspiration for getting dressed in the morning.
Abra:
Is there any way to restyle a hoarde of colorful J.Crew pencil skirts from the 2010s to make them fashionable (or at least not dated) when worn today? Or should i pack them back up for another decade? the colors i apparently saved are all relatively classic (camel, burgundy, tweed) but the cut calls out for a bubble necklace.
Anon
Pencil skirts are a classic. Let’s find a few tops to zhush them up.
This look shows a simple pencil with a boxy, oversized turtleneck sweater. The fuller sweater is a modern take on a timeless look. This chocolate brown turtleneck from ASTR would work with camel and burgundy. This boxy black turtleneck from Maeve is also a good option.
Another option is to look with a top with texture or sheer elements. Really balance the simplicity of the pencil with something interesting up top. This sheer top from Reformation is so chic, like a modern Rachel Zane look. For something more affordable, ASOS is always a solid choice.
For a bit of texture, this Veronica Beard blouse has a very dramatic ruffle. I also like this short-sleeve sweater with a crewneck detail. Sezane also has a lot of simple blouse styles with wonderful lace and textured appliqués.
Abra,
I need something to wear on a 12-hour flight to Germany that allows me to walk off the flight looking casual but pulled together since the first person I will see is my MIL.
With grace, Amy
Here’s what I would do. Rag & Bone track pants. (Wears like a sweatpant, looks like a jean.) Super comfortable jersey/sweatshirt-fabric button down. Super cool metallic sneakers. Then, carry a great cardigan, and throw it on when you step off the plane.
Not feeling the button down? How about a thick, luxe long sleeve tee in a great stripe.
Abra,
Can you recommend a cream blush that doesn’t fade? I like the Merit but it doesn’t last all day.
Casey
I have had this issue with Merit as well. I add a rosy highlighter to it to try to hold it in place, but even that isn’t always enough. I keep a Victoria Beckham Cream Blush Stick in Fame for days when I really need that cheek color to wake me up.
hi Belle!
Long time reader here- love that you’re still able to keep this up even with your many other responsibilities!
I need some help finding a wedding guest dress. I’m 18 months post partum and still trying to figure out how to dress this new body. Dress code is semi-formal at a vineyard in CA in April.
Thank you!!
First, I would rent a dress, I wouldn’t buy one. So let’s jump to Rent the Runway and see what we find.
This flutter sleeve dress from Hutch has a playfulness to it, but is a very wearable look for most body types. If the v-neck is a little too deep for you, try this Sachin + Babi gown with a flat shoe and relaxed jewelry or this floral print dress, also from Hutch, for a semi-casual option.
Also on my list, this sunny, yellow embroidered dress from Sea NY. It’s such a fun look. I also like this preppy floral dress from Cara Cara. Or really go for the bold, statement print with this dress.
When I don’t feel like my body is ready for primetime, I try to focus on hair and makeup. A cool comb or pin can really liven up a hairstyle. Then, I do my very best work on my glam — get my nails done, snag a lipstick I like, grab a spray tan, etc. The goal is to look completely put together.
DM: What do I do with my engagement ring post-divorce? My ex told me I should sell it and we should split the money.
First off, I cannot give you legal advice, but I can refer you to a lesson that I learned in my 1L contracts class that you can learn via Google: an engagement ring is a conditional gift. If you follow through on the condition (getting married), you get to keep the gift. Even in a common law state, like Washington, the ring is considered separate property. So whatever your ex may think, you followed through and got married, therefore, it’s likely that the ring is yours free and clear and unless you signed some other agreement. Ask your lawyer for his/her thoughts.
Beyond that, I recommend a divorce ring. They’re very popular right now. Just have the stone reset into something more appropriate for your right hand. Or have it turned into a necklace. Or sell the damn thing and take your kids or friends on a trip.
DM: I need a gift for a 12-year-old girl. No hobbies. Doesn’t read. Plays field hockey.
Hmm, I’m made to understand kids sports are very spendy. So you might ask her Mom/Dad if there is a nice piece of equipment she might like or a cool shoe, etc. Or maybe you can contribute to her tournament or club fees.
Beyond that, I bought the teen girls on our Christmas list Swedish gummy candy from Bon Bon NYC and the bag charm kit from Baublebar. Both were very popular.
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