Ask the Editor: Vol. VI, No. Thirteen

Something unexpected and frightening happened this week. I had gone for a deep tissue massage, and when I woke up the next morning, the room was doing violent barrel rolls. I felt like I was caught in a Tilt-a-Whirl. I could neither sit up nor stand without a wave of crushing nausea. I felt like I might tip over at any moment.

One emergency trip to my provider later, I was diagnosed with BPPV, a form of vertigo, and told to go to the ER if the symptoms didn’t resolve by evening. Apparently, injuries during massage or chiropractic work are shockingly common. My provider detailed how he’s seen patients with injuries to their jugular veins, disc herniation, and nerve damage from neck manipulation. He explained that even when he goes for a massage, he is adamant no one is to touch his neck, ever.

I’m just starting to find my sea legs again this morning, and I am so grateful. But I’ve probably had my last massage. So as I bounce back, let’s dive into the mail bag.

Dear Abra,

What do girls with thicker thighs wear for shorts? The cute ones you posted from Spanx are just too tight on me. Can you help me find a pair that are more modest and less American Gladiators?

~ Lisa

If you’re searching for a looser fitting short, may I recommend an a-line pair? They flare slightly at the bottom, so the fit isn’t as snug. I own a linen pair that I bought two summers ago and just adore because they’re breezier on hot days with improved air flow.

Pistola makes a great denim pair. Madewell also has a denim pair that are worth a look. Banana Republic has a cool linen pair at its flagship, and an its factory store. If you need an athletic pair, Lululemon has the best one. Plus-size? Universal Standard has a great chambray pair.

DM: Are we really wearing lace shorts? I’M 38 FOR GAH SAKES!

Speaking of shorts, I got this DM while I was in Colorado last week. As always, let me reiterate, whether you choose to wear a trendy item is entirely a personal decision. If satin shorts with lace trim don’t fit into your life, they don’t fit into your life. I’ve been looking for a pair a 40+ woman with a questionable workout regimen can wear, and here’s what I’ve found.

This Wit & Wisdom pair are twill and lace. I honestly thought I could wear them this summer as is, and then hem them next summer when the trend dies down. These Broderie trim ones from Nordstrom also give you that breezy lace look in a more approachable package.

If you like the look of satin and lace shorts, I’ve tried approximately 10 pairs. I’ve discovered that a few things look better on me and less “try hard.” First, the lace and the satin must be the same color. Second, they need to have a 4″ inseam. Third, no draw string helps tremendously. Fourth, darker colors look best. All of that being said, there was one pair I thought looked good: this pair from Nordstrom that have a boudoir feel without being too over the top.

Dear Abra,

My niece turns 19 at the end of June and I have her in the family birthday pool. The rules are the gift must be under $250 and cannot be clothes, money or a gift card. She is in college but lives with her parents. She is very girly but hates pink. She also doesn’t need any tech gifts or home items. I am really at a loss for how to proceed since I was never girly and only ever wanted money.

Please help. Kacie

So I polled a few of the late teens in my life, and here is what they came up with. Mason Pearson hairbrushes are in demand, after becoming TikTok famous this spring. Analog gifts are popular — think Polaroid cameras, a CD player with a CD burner, etc. They also suggested a Le Pliage bag or an Alex Mill tote bag.

Hello Abra,

This might be more of an AMA question, but what is the best thing you’ve bought this year so far? I always love hearing about people’s best purchases.

Katie

Boy, this is a tough one. I would say my most used purchase is the Aveda Volumizing Hair Tonic. It gives good volume and isn’t crunchy like mousse.

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