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Updated: Nov 1, 2018 201 Comments · by

Frugal Friday’s TPS Report: Sleeveless Belted Scoop-Neck A-Line

The Personal Shopper (TPS)· Under $150

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Our daily TPS reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices. AGB Dress, Sleeveless Belted Scoop-Neck A-LineReader A wrote in to recommend this dress, noting:
It is awesome. It is machine washable, the fabric is thick enough to smooth over any lumps, it is lined, and the neckline is low enough to be flattering but high enough to avoid raising eyebrows. The A-line is also incredibly flattering. The only thing I did was use a scissors to cut off the threads tacking on what looks like a very cheap belt and replaced it with one of my own belts (which instantly upgraded the dress). The sizing isn't perfect (I'm overly busty and had to go up a size, leaving it a little loose in the waist), but with a cardigan and flats it is perfect for a spring day at the office. Quite the steal.
Well well: good to know. The dress is on deep discount right now — originally $60, now marked to $21.99 (through 5/5). (Alas, I couldn't get one of the promo codes to work with the dress, but maybe someone else will have more luck.) It's available in very limited sizes in red, but the black has plenty of sizes in stock. AGB Dress, Sleeveless Belted Scoop-Neck A-Line Seen a great piece you'd like to recommend? Please e-mail tps@corporette.com. (L-2) Psst: Check out more great deals at the Corporette Bargains page!

Sales of note for 9.10.24

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Comments

  1. Ella

    Hive, I am so bummed about job searching. I’m a recent law grad looking for a public interest job in any northeast city. I have had no luck and it’s depressing me. I recently had a prospective employer I was really excited about reject me in a really rude and unprofessional way after making it a few rounds. I feel like giving up and heading to biglaw. Should I do it? Should I stick it out in the public interest market? How do I keep my head up and keep a positive self esteem through this process? I need a drink, ha.

    • Anne Shirley

      In what world is big law a fall back job? I’m not convinced you’ll have any success there, especially since hardly any firm is looking for a first year associate who didn’t summer with them. Unless you already have an offer and you’ve been trying to find options?

      • Anne Shirley

        Sorry, re-reading this and it’s way harsh. But thinking you can just give up and go to biglaw makes me wonder if you’ve really adjusted your strategy for today’s economy. Are you a Jan 13 grad? Or a full year out? Or a last week grad? I think how long you’ve been in the market makes a big difference. If you’re looking for public interest have you been volunteering?

        • LawyrChk

          Harsh but true. Unless you summered in biglaw and have an offer waiting from your summer firm, it’s a tough road (even with great stats). It’s just that most biglaw doesn’t hire entry level except through their summer programs unless they have a dire need (and the number of highly qualified grads wanting those positions far exceeds supply).

      • Ella

        Oh it’s okay. I was trying to not reveal too much but I’m in a circuit clerkship, from a t14 school, had job offers from biglaw firms for 2L summer but decided to go to a nonprofit. I know that it’s in no way for sure that I could get another biglaw offer, but I think that it wouldn’t be wasted time to apply.

        • Ella

          Also, I agree with what Pam says below — I said big law but I guess I mean the corporate world in general.

          • Divaliscious11

            Will be extremely difficult to go in-house if that is what you mean by ‘corporate world’ …..

          • Ella

            No not in house — I know that is generally not an option for new lawyers. I meant firms, big or small.

        • Anne Shirley

          Ha! You’re in a circuit clerkship, and “you’ve had no luck” and the job hunt is depressing?!? Girl you’ve already done really well. Keep looking, remember that public interest jobs don’t often hire months and months in advance, and that some biglaw firms have really excellent pro Bono opportunities.

          • Ella

            Ha yes thank you for that dose of perspective. I’m just getting more and more nervous as August and the end of my clerkship approaches and I still don’t have a job. Plus I’ve been rejected from so many things! I just don’t know when it’s time to throw in the hat on public interest, or if I should wait because of jobs like you mentioned that don’t hire months out. Thank you for your advice, Anne Shirley!

          • A Nonny Moose

            +1. Public interest jobs in my field usually post at most in a month in advance, IME

          • anon

            Some of this might have to do with federal hiring — given the budget problems, federal hiring is way down, so I would imagine many folks who normally would’ve landed at a federal agency are now in competition for the public interest jobs you seek, making the competition that much harder.

          • rosie

            I had that thought about federal hiring, too. Even if you’re not in a field where candidates would also be considering gov’t, I bet there will be people that cannot get into gov’t right now looking very broadly at the public interest market.

          • Batgirl

            Wow, this is so unnecessarily snarky. What some people don’t realize is that certain T14 superstars still DO have Biglaw eating out of their palm.

            @OP–the public interest world is really tough to break into, even with great credentials. If you aren’t having luck, I would consider going to your 2L firm and continue applying from that position. Most public interest orgs I know (including the one I work for) want their lawyers to have had a few years of law firm/other practice experience before hiring them. Good luck!

          • Anonymous

            It wasnt snarky, but true.

            im a partner in biglaw who regularly participates in hiring decisions. youre correct that top people at top schools are still what we are looking for, but OPs entitled, self-important attitude (which came across as much in her original post as it did in her follow up, despite the fact that she was *trying* not to sound entitled) will keep her from getting the jobs she wants, despite her credentials

          • Batgirl

            I don’t think she sounds entitled. I think she sounds like someone who would rather work in public interest than in Biglaw. I think a lot of people in Biglaw have trouble understanding how someone could see it as backup plan without somehow denigrating their own choice to be there, but I’ve seen just as many people in Biglaw talk about how they’ll move into public interest law like those jobs are theirs for the taking.

            In my experience (in both Biglaw and in an impact litigation group at a public interest org), it’s much easier to use Biglaw as a back up than vice versa–simply because there are more jobs in Biglaw than at public interest orgs. Biglaw jobs are competitive, but there are more of them. Public interest jobs (at least of the non-direct service variety) are extremely hard to come by with only a handful becoming available in any given year.

            So I apologize for misinterpreting your initial comment as snark, but I disagree with your point.

        • LM

          I think this is obvious, and you probably have done this, but, have you just asked your judge for help? Legal world is so tight right now that you should take all the help that you can. There is a really good public interest job search listserv from Brown, if you would consider RI,
          http://brown.edu/academics/college/special-programs/public-service/rhode-island-community-jobs
          If you can afford it, volunteering is a great way to go. You would be amazed at what you can volunteer for these days – I am in CA now and you can commit to unpaid years at the US Attny or CA AG or the elder law clinic for city of San Diego. If I had realized how long I would be unemployed, I would have. I made the mistake of thinking my skills qualified me for something different. They don’t.
          Don’t let these obviously overworked big law haters get you down. They are super cranky from big law life and need to attack you to feel better about their lives.

        • anon

          I know people with far lesser credentials who have gotten biglaw jobs without summering places. It’s not common but it definitely happens–even post-2009.

    • Pam

      I agree with the sentiment behind Anne Shirley’s comment if your reference to Big Law is to, well, Big Law. However, if by Big Law you just mean private practice / the corporate world / non-public interest, then I don’t think you should write it off as a possibility. Private practice can be a road to public interest work in the future, particularly if you are working at a firm that works with or for public interest groups. Working on those files gives you an in with the public interest group, you can develop relationships with the client (often in-house counsel) that can lead to your dream job, while getting great experience that will help make you more attractive to those future employers. I’d suggest at least broadening your job search to consider law firms that do that kind of work. Good luck!

      • Em

        Agreed; not all firms are BigLaw firms, and you can get good training at firms that do the kind of work you want to do.

      • TCFKAG

        I have to agree with this – public interest law jobs are scarce right now (funding is low) and they just don’t have the funding to pay people who aren’t funded by outside sources (like fellowships or Equal Justice Works and the like). Most big law jobs will have ample pro bono opportunities and if you commit to that and play your cards right, you can make the kinds of connections you need and get the experience you want to parlay it into a good public interest job.

        The key though is to not get attached to the golden handcuffs. Use the money to pay down your loans and add to savings, but don’t change your cost of living dramatically. If you do, then you may never be able to get out without substantial change.

        (Oh – and this may be obvious – but don’t let it be known to everyone in your office that you’re “only there for two years and then leaving” because (a) they will probably roll their eyes and assume you won’t follow through and/or (b) they won’t want to work with you/invest as much time in you if they view you as having one foot out the door. I knew a girl who cost herself a post-graduate offer this way. Plus, I think to a certain extent you should ethically and for mental health focus on the work you do as though its your first priority – though that is my preference and may not be everyone’s.)

    • Ellen

      Yay, I love Fruegal Friday’s! Great Dress, Kat! I also love A-line dresses, but this one is a little to short for me and my leg’s would look to stubby. Again, my sister would look great in this DRESS b/c she is taller then me so I will show Rosa.

      For the poster, you should consider NYC. I work in NYC, but in a SMALLER “Boutique” WC Firm where we also Do alot of personal injury DEFENSE work for insureance companies. Mabye you should also consider NOT the biggest law firms, b/c most lawyers do NOT work at Sherman and Stereling or Craveath or those other places that are alway’s in the NEWSPAPER’s. I worked in the public sector in DC before I greaduated and did NOT like it alot b/c it was NOT NYC and I am a NYC gal at heart. Also, I am MUCH harder working and I did NOT think they would reward me for my effort’s like the manageing partner does. Also, I do NOT think the Public Sector attorney’s get a clotheing allowance to go in to court the way I do so I am VERY lucky! YAY!!!!

      I do NOT know what I am goeing to do with Robert. He texted me a picture of HIM, again by the tractor, but this time he was NOT weareing his park’s department shirt. That is gross. I do NOT care for this and think that he want’s a pic like that from ME? NO WAY HOZE! I am NOT sending ANY PICS at all to him. I am sure that he would post it on the INETERNET. FOOEY on that! I have to tell MYRNA about this b/c she was pusheing me to continue to see him, but now I am not so sure. DOUBEL FOOEY!

    • TBK

      I don’t see any reason not to go to biglaw for a couple of years, if you have the offers. Public interest doesn’t want to shell out the money to train baby lawyers so the competition for entry level jobs (the very, very, very few they have) is fierce. With two years of biglaw practice under your belt, plus your already impressive resume, I think you’ll find getting a public interest job a breeze. Plus, you’ll be able to take your time with it because you won’t have a hard deadline to find a new job the way you do now. If you do go biglaw, though, for the love of pete, please do not bring any “biglaw is a sell-out” attitude with you. I worked with a bunch of other juniors with that approach and, man, were they obnoxious.

      Finally, if you need a self-esteem boost from a few rejections while you’re already in a circuit clearkship, I think you might need to find yourself some thicker skin. This market is absolutely brutal. Almost no one is getting the job they feel they “deserve.” Take it on the jaw, shake it off, and get back out there. You’ll get to where you want to go eventually. It might just take longer than you’d hoped.

      • January

        +1. I had a much less prestigious clerkship than you and can absolutely relate to that feeling of panic as the end of the clerkship approaches. I also got rejected a lot (and I do mean a lot). But if you had biglaw offers your 2L summer, I’d strongly encourage reaching out to those firms to see whether there is any possibility they would take you on. There are just so few public interest positions available. Next to working in public interest, by the way, biglaw firms are going to be your best shot at doing pro bono because the smaller firms often don’t have the resources to support it.

      • Job hunter

        Amen. I’ve been job hunting (while having a job) for two years. You have to get used to rejection and criticism if you are going to be a lawyer (there will be plenty of it no matter what field you go into). At a training I attended once, the trainer said that the most successful attorneys she knew had a common trait of resilience. I think that’s critical.

        A few months of unsuccessful (relatively – getting through multiple rounds is hardly abject failure) job hunting while having other job offers on the table is hardly a resounding defeat.

        • Ella

          Thanks for this and for the same sentiment, TBK. I agree that I need thicker skin.

    • Joanie

      I think in this market you have to apply everywhere. Especially if it is making you nervous to not have a job lined up. I wouldn’t be waiting around for a public interest job. Once you have a permanent position at a firm, then you can look without the hard deadline you have now. Of course, keep applying at any public interest jobs you see, but I wouldn’t pass on other opportunities for something that very well may not pan out at this point.

    • mama of 2

      I have a similar resume (top law school, circuit clerkship) and couldn’t figure out how to make public interest work Biglaw can be a useful place to land for a few years – the clerkship bonus will help you financially, and after a decent period (six months?) you can start applying for public interest jobs again, while you have a job. As long as you don’t stay too long, you can make the switch.

      I will also say that most of my friends who ended up in public interest jobs straight out of law school or clerkships did so with a fellowship. It’s very hard to go straight into these positions. And for whatever it’s worth, many of them with fellowships are now back in BigLaw because they couldn’t work the money out.

      My own experience: I’m in a terrific BigLaw firm, which I love and where I’ve done amazing, high-profile public interest pro bono work. It can be done. Good luck!

    • capnkate

      I’m in a similar position. I’m in a judicial clerkship, and have looked and looked for jobs, both public and private, and nada. After applying to dozens of job postings, I had my first interview last week. Haven’t heard anything yet, but I feel like it’s not gonna happen.

      Would you have the option of staying at your clerkship another year? There’s a lot of talk about more jobs opening up in the future, as the economy seems to be doing better. This is my plan.

      Also, since I’ve not been finding jobs that feel like a good fit for me, I’m thinking once my husband has a steady job w/ health insurance, I’m just going to go solo. Maybe this is an option for you? I’ve found that most places are not interested in training new lawyers, and don’t want to hire someone w/o experience or a book of business. And, the firms that I have found willing to take on a “baby lawyer” pay crap, or do not share my values at all. I’ve talked to a lot of lawyers who went solo after law school, and they’re doing great. In fact, many who left law firm jobs say they are making more money and are happier as a solo. Something to think about. If you’ve got a circuit clerkship, my guess is you are smart and savvy enough to go solo, if you want.

    • Apple

      I work in the public interest and totally disagree with the above posters. I think it can be easier to get a big law job (where there are many) than a public interest job (few). I don’t want to get into a whose job is more competitive debate, but unless you’ve actually done a public interest job search I don’t think you should weigh in on how competitive it is compared to big law since I don’t think that helps anything. As for whether you should stick with it, that really depends on what matters to you. Can you hang in there with internships/etc. in hopes of getting hired? Can you keep yourself plugged into the area you care about? Will you be okay not being able to make it back into that area for 5-10 years? Good luck!

      • Anonymous

        As someone who has done both, its much harder to get a biglaw job at this point in her job search. There are few public interest jobs, but there are zero biglaw jobs for first years that didn’t summer. If she has no attorney experience (not a lateral) and does not have a big law job, the programs don’t work that way. But it looks like she really meant any firm job, which is more likely to be successful. I think it is a good idea for you to expand your search OP, and you might realize you are ok with doing firm work for a while if the fit is right- good people, interesting work even if its not the ideal field, etc.

        • LH

          There aren’t zero Biglaw jobs. My firm has hired recent law grads who didn’t summer and I know friends who have gotten jobs at other places without summering. I think this is partly due to the layoffs in 09 and the smaller summer classes the last couple years. As things continue to recover, firms don’t have enough new associates in the pipeline from the summer classes . It certainly isn’t easy but with T14/circuit clerkship she has Biglaw credentials.

          • January

            Same – I got into biglaw from my clerkship. I had the appropriate academic credentials and had turned down a summer offer from this firm, which is why I urge the OP to get back in touch with firms that were interested in her previously. It’s outside the norm to be hired this way, but it does happen.

        • anooon

          I think anon at 11:39 is just plain wrong. tons of biglaw firms compete to hire judicial clerks– especially federal circuit clerks. Also note that clerks, while they won’t have firm experience, will not technically be first years when they start (clerkship credit). I know for a fact that a significant number of biglaw firms in NYC have taken/are taking active steps to recruit and hire clerks who did not summer with them for this coming fall. most of this happened earlier in the spring, but I bet plenty of these places would still welcome a good resume.

        • Anonymous

          I posted before I saw that she came back and said she was a clerkship. I was talking about a recent graduate from law school that did not have a clerkship.

          • LH

            A clerkship makes it easier but its definitely not an impossibility for those without. Just in case anyone else is wondering.

          • B

            I didn’t summer and was hired into Biglaw as a first year. No clerkship. It happens.

      • Trolly Troll

        I sense a feeling of kinship with King Kong, here. I’m friendly and hospitable — there’s room for you under this huge bridge, believe it or not.

      • Anonymous

        Oh King Kong — You’re no AVClub’s Cookie Monster (Or even Zodiac Mother******, who is gone, but had a good bit.) But job searching right now sucks. And saying, “I would like a job, for which I am trained, where I will do good work and in return receive a paycheck. I am searching for such a job, but it is morally degrading, both because of the lack available options and because I live in a culture where 1) unemployed people are considered morally inferior 2) we define ourselves almost entirely by our jobs and 3) there is no recourse for excusing student loans, saddling me with supposedly “good debt” forever,” is not entitlement. It’s a reality for many people who did the exact same things as people who are now very successful.

        Get a better shtick or be nicer.

        • Anonymous

          Well that’s not what she said. She actually said “should I just give up and take the 160,000/year job?” which most people would kill for. So I get the sense of entitlement comment.

          Also why should her loans be excused if she is making 160k? you are projecting a lot in this comment.

          • Hulk

            Agreed. Hulk have no problem understanding that job market sucks and student loans suck. Hulk have problem understanding why it is a problem when you have a lucrative fall back option?

            Hulk smell a bit of entitlement and a lot of humblebrag.

          • Godzilla

            AND she currently has a job. I’m with King Kong, Trolly Troll and Hulk on this one.

          • Anonymous

            ack, you’re a chick with a schtick.

            A schtick that amuses no one as much as it does you.

      • anon atty

        this. this is the problem and probably why OP is having a hard time finding a job despite her credintials. she is short sighted — of course she should be looking all over the place. that she thought “i will certainly get the job of my dreams, so it makes no sense to even try anywhere else” says so, so much about her. as a partner on the hiring committee in my biglaw firm, her attitude sends red flags flying. given the relatively small incoming class size, we can fill our summer and first year classes with top folks from top schools who have federal clerkships (of all levels) that are no so entitled.

        • Ella

          I went to law school to do public interest, spent my time at law school doing public interest, and then spent the first 8 months of my clerkship applying for wide-ranging public interest jobs before I considered applying to firm jobs. I don’t think that’s believing “I will get the job of my dreams, so it makes no sense to even try anywhere else.” I think what I did was pretty common for people who want public interest jobs.

          • anon atty

            you may think that, as may your friends. my perspective is the perspective of the people you want to hire you.

            and as i said, its short sighted, for a number of reasonsl. your “time in law school” means nothing once you get out. a “wide range of public interest jobs” is a far cry from a wide range of lawyer jobs, which is what you should be applying to in this market if you dont have a job. Also, how do you know you dont want a biglaw job until you try it? I went to law school to do public interest. thats what i did all through law school. then i clerked for a bunch of years. then, in an also “down” market, i took a job in a big firm, not sure if i would like it or not. I’m a partner there now. i love it. and i do a lot of pro bono work as well.

          • Ella

            Thanks for your response anon atty. You are certainly right that I might have a job now had I cast a wider net.

            I also agree that I can’t know whether I like biglaw until I do it, and your experience is actually really reassuring to me as I consider applying to firms (even though in general you’re saying I won’t get into biglaw).

    • Ella

      Thanks to everyone who responded. It was really helpful to hear from all of you. I appreciated hearing from those of you in similar situations. I am also thankful for the comments about entitlement — I do have a problematic view about big law, including that I feel that I’m competitive and that jobs would be available when those things aren’t true.

      • Batgirl

        Ella, I’m just writing this to say that I feel you. I worked in Biglaw post law school because I knew that I wasn’t comfortable relying on the availability of a public interest job. I hated it and couldn’t wait to return to public interest work, which is where I am now. There’s no rule that you should automatically be happier with a higher paying job (esp where that job typically comes with a ridiculous schedule and often unfulfilling work of the doc review variety). No amount of money could have kept me there.

        I don’t think you sound entitled at all–you just have your sights set on something that might be hard to get and have a great plan b that you’re not sure you want to pull the trigger on. Know that going into corporate law/Biglaw can be a means to an end and isn’t “giving up.” I’d work both angles until you find yourself at the point where you need to make a decision and then make your decision based on the information you have available at that time. Best of luck! Haters gonna hate. :)

        • Ella

          Thank you for this, Batgirl! You’re right on point about how I view my job search. I also appreciate the reassurance about going forward with both biglaw and public interest from someone in public interest now.

        • Anonymous

          I don’t see why you should apply to a job you don’t want. If you get it, you’d have a job, but it’d be one you don’t want, so you’d still be in the market, just with a track record for not sticking around.

      • Alanna of Trebond

        I know that my fancy biglaw firm is definitely looking for juniors right now, so there are definitely options open for clerks. And it is a splendid place to work!

        But I would rather work at my biglaw firm than clerk and am sad about leaving to clerk this fall, so I may just be strange.

  2. NOLA

    Love this dress. I think I’ll run by Macy’s tomorrow and see if they have it in stock at the store. I’m busty as well so I’ll have to see how it works on me. But great pick!

    • a.

      OMG I want it in red (well, orange according to the reviews) so, so bad. But I’m afraid a 0 might be too tight through the hips!

      • a.

        Welp, caved and bought it. Insane that I’ll be home soon enough (23 days!) to conceivably online shop again. And I have been looking for a few more summery, work-appropriate dresses for my internship.

        • Cb

          Are you headed back stateside? I was home for a visit and had multiple packages awaiting me. My dad questioned whether or not they sell shoes in Scotland. Oh cheap clothes, how I miss you!

          • a.

            Yup. My contract’s over at the end of June, and my grad program (in Americaland) starts in early June, so I’m dipping out a week early to get over my jet lag before I start having to be a real person again. I’ll miss this side of the pond, but overall I’m happy to be headed back to a part of the world with barbecue, craft beers, and folk music.

    • Leslie's Closet

      That is an adorable dress and a fantastic price. Another option, if the Macy’s one doesn’t work, is the Coach Tour dress from Modcloth – it’s really cute and has some fun details. BUT, it’s a bit short for anyone over 5’4 (for work, at least). I wore mine yesterday with a Chanel-style bouclé blazer and loved the combination.

    • hellskitchen

      I might have to check this out too. I picked up a $20 AGB black shift dress from Marshalls in a moment of shopping ennui and it has become one of my most worn pieces.

  3. momentsofabsurdity

    Thanks to all who provided running tips last week – I ended up making it out to buy shoes this week and bought those weird Vibram Five Finger shoes. The salesperson chitchatted with me for a while, I tried on a bunch of more “supportive” shoes, but in general I’m a pretty barefoot person (I live in either flat boots with a hard sole, or flip flops, and my shoes are pretty much the first thing off as soon as I walk in the door – and lots of times I ditch my shoes on walks in the park), so the whole “feel” of them sort of jibed with who I am.

    They are super weird looking and make my feel look like King Kong’s. But, I do think the philosophy is pretty cool, so I think they’re worth a shot? I got the Komodo Sport LS and they’re a bit snug, but the sales guy told me they tend to stretch/mold/conform to your feet. I figured since I’m trying to slowwwwwly build up my running anyway, it might also be a good time to start barefoot running (since I guess you need to build that up very slowly as well).

    Has anyone ever run on these on a treadmill? I live in the city so there’s not a lot of non paved surfaces to run on, but he advised to start on something lower impact and suggested a treadmill as a good first step. I’d also be interested in any tips in general about running in these shoes.

    Also – are you supposed to wear socks with these?

    • Anonymous

      I love my Vibrams! You’re not supposed to wear socks with them, but you can buy toe socks to use with them- in that case, you’d probably want to go back to the store and buy a size up in order to accommodate the socks. One of my friends uses socks with hers, and she says it helps keep the smell manageable (they do get a little funky).

      I’ve run on the treadmill a lot on mine and it’s been fine, but I bought my Vibrams because I wanted to run on paved surfaces. I get wicked bad shin splints when I run in regular shoes on paved surfaces, but the Vibrams have been great for that.

    • Anon in NYC

      My husband used to wear socks with his Vibrams (you don’t have to, but he would get blisters) – you can find 5-toed socks on Amazon or the like. My husband actually just switched over to a similar barefoot shoe but it doesn’t have the 5-fingers and I think it’s slightly more supportive.

    • SunnyD

      My brother wears Vibrams and loves them. He has completely flat feet and used to complain about the “arches” in regular running shoes. Since he started wearing them, he hasn’t had any injuries (we run about 25 miles a week all on paved city streets).

      He does not wear socks with them and after awhile they start to smell pretty bad. But that’s usually about the time the soles start wearing through and he has to ditch them for a new pair anyway. But I do think he tries to air them out after each run to reduce the stink factor.

      Happy running!

    • TheoSTL

      I also have Fivefingers. I periodically throw them in the washing machine with towels, and that deals with all funky smells well.

      As for tips on running in them, definitely start slow and work up to your normal distance. I normally walk around barefooted at home, and I was sore at first.

    • Sutemi

      I run in them with socks for long runs, not for short runs. Socks keep them from getting funkyso they can go longer between washes, but I find that putting them in with the laundry works fine. I am a slow runner but when I wear minimalist shoes I don’t have any joint pain. My husband wears them and never wears socks, so different people do different things.

    • Lola

      Limit how much you are running in Vibrams at first. For example, half a mile in Vibrams, and the rest of your run in regular sneakers; then a mile with the rest in regular sneakers; then 1.5 miles, etc. If you go all Vibram right at the start, you’ll likely injure yourself. Even though it seems you’re a fairly barefoot person, you still need to build up the muscles in your foot. Read Born to Run if you haven’t yet!

    • momentsofabsurdity

      Thanks so much everyone! I’ll take it slow, no socks, at first and see how I feel about that after a couple of weeks. I imagine I will be pretty sore but I’ll try to power though that. If I’m sore because I’m using muscles that have atrophied, I can deal with it. When I’m in *pain* (like after my 5K a couple of weekends ago) and my joints feel like they’re about to pop out of their sockets, less so. So here’s hoping the Vibrams will give me the former, not the latter.

    • wintergreen126

      I was wondering how the beginning of your running adventure was going! I hope the Vibrams work for you–have fun!

    • Anonymous

      I love my Vibrams! The socks are pricey ($12/pair!) but worth it for the spring/fall. I actually find it easier to put the shoes on with the socks. The running store you got the shoes at should have them, but so will REI/other camping supply stores (hikers wear them as liners).

      I wear mine to walk in (not a runner — messed up knees). They are not warm or waterproof. But super comfy. My lower back pain is basically gone because of them! Enjoy!

    • Samantha

      I *just* finished reading Born to Run (on the recommendation of you smart ladies here) and loved it! And as a yoga and generally barefoot person (with a ballet past) I was seriously considering buying the Vibram or the equivalent Nike shoe (named in the book, I forget). Thanks for all the info!

  4. hellskitchen

    What percentage of your work wardrobe is neutrals v/s colors and prints? I used to have mostly black and greys in my closet up until a couple of years ago when I decided to embrace my love for colors and prints. And now I feel like they have taken over my closet. I still love them but it is harder to put together outfits in new ways, especially with prints – I don’t want to be known as the woman who wears a yellow shirt & purple skirt on one day and a green sweater and pink skirt the next and so on and so forth. I can never seem to strike the right balance so am wondering what others do, especially if you too are fond of bold colors and prints like me. What’s the ideal ratio of neutrals to colors?

    • Two Cents

      I would like to wear more prints, but I always always gravitate toward solid, saturated colors. I feel that many prints are totally overwhelming on me, even though I’m not a small person – about 5’5, on the thinner side. I read some article somewhere saying that some people can’t get away with wearing prints except those that are a very small variety.

      Also, did you notice that Joan Holloway almost never wears prints? Just bold, saturated solids and they look fantastic on her. I tend to gravitate toward the same look (but I definitely don’t have her figure!).

      • TheoSTL

        I never realized that, but it makes me feel a lot better of my wardrobe. I usually wear solid colors, and I’m nervous sometimes that it looks too bland.

      • hellskitchen

        I do wear a lot of solid colors but they are usually separates so there’s always some bright color blocking going on. I don’t watch Mad Men, but I am busty on top like Joan (that’s Christina Henderson, right?) – is she usually in solid color dresses or separates? Like Cb below, most of my dresses are prints but perhaps I need to get dresses in saturated bright colors.

      • CrimsonClover

        I don’t know if I agree about this… Joan has worn a few printed dresses over the years, and as a similarly figured person myself I find prints can be realllllly forgiving in wonderful ways, plus they sometimes require a “bigger canvas” to be displayed properly and not overwhlem the person.

        I have a good 25 or so printed dresses and they all look so much better than solids on me.

      • TCFKAG

        I did a post on print blouses a while back and I like them as a way to add patterns to my wardrobe, especially with a solid toned blazer and skirt – that way I don’t feel overwhelmed by the print, but I still add a pop of color. The post is here. http://tcfkag.weebly.com/7/post/2013/04/blouses-blouses-everywhere.html

        I also think there are prints that read more as neutrals – like polka dots or some stripes – which are a nice way to ease into adding more prints to your wardrobe (or mixing prints if that ever suits your fancy.) Though be careful or you’ll end up with so many polka dots your DH will suggest (declare, whatever) that its really time you went on a polka dot hiatus just for the sake of wardrobe variety. And he’ll be right. :-P

      • j

        I wear a lot of prints, both tops and skirts. I think I prefer having a printed skirt and a solid top (today I’m wearing a large-scale paisley silk skirt and a cream/tan lightweight v-neck sweater). I am very tall and very very hourglassy. Like what CrimsonClover said, larger prints are a lot more forgiving on me and almost camoflauge in a weird way. I sometimes feel like a pin-up in skirts/pants that aren’t black or another dark neutral. I also love mixing prints, but not really at work unless it’s a more “neutral” print like tiny polka dots.

        • hellskitchen

          “I sometimes feel like a pin-up in skirts/pants that aren’t black or another dark neutral” I think you just nailed my problem. Most of my skirts/pants are also bright saturated colors and not neutral. Like you and anon suggest, I think I need more bottoms that are neutral

          • j

            Totally…one of my favorite pencil skirts is this gorgeous vermillion/tomato red. It’s knee length and not too fitted in the rear, but I can only wear it to work if I wear a blazer or long sweater. Otherwise I feel like one of those giant blinking flourescent arrows is pointing at my lower half.

    • Cb

      I’m wearing more and more prints but they only form about 20% of my wardrobe and tend to be dresses (easier to match). I am currently wearing a heart print silky skirt, I look like a 6 year old but it’s a dreary day and I’m camped out in the library. I’m making a concerted effort to buy more color as well but maybe it makes sense to buy neutral bottoms and colorful tops (or vice versa)?

      • a.

        I love color and print, but I do what Cb said and roll with neutral (mostly navy and black) bottoms with a bright color and/or print on top. I also have some printed dresses. But I don’t care if I’m known as “the girl with the brightly-colored, printed shirts”–they’re all work-appropriate, aren’t tight, show no cleavage, have no exposed zippers, etc. I really don’t think it’s a bad thing to have a signature look.

        • Anon

          Commented just below you and apparently we have the same style. I like being the girl in bright printed shirts! I also work for a woman who wears very bright clothes so don’t feel as though I’m being less conservative than my superior.

      • NatalieR

        I do the same mix, but reverse tops and bottoms, usually. I have a ton of black and navy tops, with more brightly colored or patterned skirts. I think that’s because I am ample of chest and with thinner legs, so I like (like to think that I am?) to downplay my top and highlight my legs.

    • Anon

      I’d say my wardrobe is about 25% prints and all of those are silk tops. I wear the same style of pants nearly every day and switch it up with saturated knits or printed silk tops so I have a “uniform” or signature look that looks less like a uniform, if you know what I mean. Makes it relatively easy to dress in the morning too. My pants are all Gap Modern Boot in navy, gray, black, or pin stripes in those colors.

      • hellskitchen

        Yep, a “uniform” work look is exactly what I want to go for. I have amassed a very eclectic wardrobe – I’d say almost 80% prints and bright colors – and want to rein it in a little bit. There are days when I feel I am dressed like a 50’s housewife (bright floral dress anyone?) and days when I look more urban in all black. If were a a fashion blogger and getting paid for it, it would be fun to switch up looks every day but I am looking to simplify my wardrobe and have a more consistent professional image. The black pants/ color top combo doesn’t work for me unless I add in a black jacket and throw in some black jewelry to make it all look intentional but perhaps I can try this with neutral bottoms in navy or gray. Thanks for these ideas!

      • erika

        where do you get your print silk tops? i am trying to incorporate more prints into my work wardrobe, but it’s tough to find tops that are work appropriate and don’t cost a ridiculous amount!

    • Snarkster

      I think you are overthinking this. Wear color if you want! You should have a few neutral suits for court, interviews etc but those don’t have to comprise your wardrobe.

  5. Yellow

    Can I just say that as much as I love Scandal, I’m getting so sick of the relationship dynamic between Olivia Pope and the Pres? Over and over again it’s like if you ignore a woman when she says no and refuse to acknowledge her wishes, eventually you will get what you want. I don’t normally get worked up over things on TV, but it makes me so sad to think of the younger girls and guys who see things like that and think its normal.

    • anon32

      I have hated their dynamic since season 1. She is a strong woman who is not afraid to take on anyone but becomes putty in his hands. Not to say love can’t make you do crazy things but you are the right, the fact that it happens over and over again is annoying at the very least

    • Kanye East

      It’s getting really hard to watch. Every scene with them, I’m just yelling at my teevee “OLIVIA YOU IN TROUBLE GIRL! RUN! YOU CAN DO BETTER! YOU DESERVE BETTER!”

    • j

      The whole relationship with Fitz annoys the hell out of me. However, Olivia’s secrecy re: relationships and her vulnerability towards men are her only significant flaws as a character, and therefore vital for the show to remain interesting.

  6. a.

    I don’t know if this is a request for advice, or just me venting for a second. I’ve been with my current boyfriend since the beginning of February, and in a lot of ways it’s the best relationship I’ve ever had. But I’m leaving Europe at the end of May, and I *still* don’t know if we’re staying together or breaking up. I still don’t know if I *want* to stay together or break up.

    We’ve talked about it, obviously inconclusively, but those conversations have brought up my one big, big, big issue with my otherwise lovely, kind, considerate, and affectionate boyfriend: that in difficult moments, or when dealing with difficult topics, he tends to shut down. Just go completely silent. When pressed he’ll go for “I don’t know,” or “I’m not good at talking about feelings.” Well, I don’t know either, and I’m not good at talking about feelings either, but how can we have any kind of future together if we can’t deal with the hard stuff? Almost every time we have any kind of decision-making talk (even about more minor stuff, like the day trip we’re taking tomorrow, which is prompting this post) my internal barometer swings towards “break up.” But then the other 95% of the time we’re together, everything’s great, and back it swings towards “give it a chance.”

    I just don’t know what to do, or what to want to do, about this. And I hate that my hard end-of-May deadline is forcing the issue, instead of giving us more time to work stuff like this out more organically.

    • ohc

      This is not supremely helpful, but I have been in your situation, and it helps to remember that there are a lot of practicalities that must line up alongside the more romantic elements in order to make a relationship work. It’s the “world enough and time” theory of romantic partners–given those things, there are probably loads of people with whom you could have fulfilling romantic relationships.

      It sounds as though you’re taking your own uncertainty as a red flag–and that’s reasonable, given that I know you know how much work goes into maintaining a LDR. But if you’ve got another month together, why not make the most of the month? Let the hard issues simmer on the back burner; the deadline might force his hand or might bring you some more clarity. In the meantime, don’t stress yourself (and him) out–just keep doing the fun parts and let the hard parts sort themselves out.

      • a.

        Hit the nail on the head with seeing my uncertainty as a red flag! I just feel like I should *know* whether I want to take on the difficulties of an LDR with this dude. But I just don’t. I doubt I’d even be considering breaking up with him if it weren’t for the LDR aspect, so I guess in a way that’s clarifying. Kind of.

        • ohc

          It is totally okay to realize that your feelings about the romance might be different in these particular circumstances than they would be in other, more forgiving circumstances. That is not non-romantic or non-organic or whatever–you are just in a situation with a lot of opportunity (what with your imminent change of continents) and therefore have a lot more chances to make choices.

          Basically, you are Spiderman (great power and great responsibility and etc.), but probably with cuter clothes.

    • Hmmm

      Have you ever discussed this pattern with your boyfriend in a neutral, “I’ve noticed that whenever we have to discuss some sort of decision, you kind of shut down and don’t communicate. Obviously, these aren’t fun topics, but they have to get resolved — is there something I can do to help make these things easier?”

      It can be telling what they say or don’t say.

      I do think that if you want a long-term relationship with this guy, this issue needs to be resolved and he needs to take more initiative in dealing with the issue. It’d definitely not be acceptable for him to address it with the attitude that he’s doing you some graaaaand favor.

      Life is full of difficult decisions and making them with someone who either avoids and shuts down is de facto making hard decisions alone. The older, cynical part of me says that the right answer isn’t necessarily to break up with someone like this, but keep them at the appropriate distance. (If one wants marriage, children, then dump this one. People like this can really suck when the crap hits the fan, which often happens). If you don’t want those things, then he can keep being your fun summer fling.

      • Monday

        +1 to both the response you can use when someone is dodging and to the decision on your hands if they continue to do so.

      • a.

        No, I haven’t discussed it with him, but you’re right that I need to. I will probably steal your phrasing verbatim.

    • Anon in NYC

      Is he staying in Europe? Is he going to be moving back to the U.S. with you? Is his U.S. location the same as yours? Would he have to move to your location? Those are big questions, and not something that I think can be rushed. Maybe he doesn’t have the answer to your questions yet because he doesn’t know what he wants to do. My advice: leave Europe without a plan, and just continue talking about it. Once you’re back in the U.S., you’ll have a better sense of whether this relationship is one that you want to pursue long-term. Right now there’s a risk that you’ll stay together because it feels like graduation and you feel nostalgic.

      And just to commiserate, I hate it when a SO just shuts down and refuses to make a decision or participate in a discussion. Fortunately my DH is a talker, but sometimes he talks as a means of avoiding making a decision, which also drives me nuts.

      • a.

        He’s European, which is my biggest fear about an LDR: it wouldn’t be something where our being on two continents was temporary, with an easy endpoint. Actually being together would require one of us to make a big, big leap. I think we both would, in the abstract, consider moving to each others’ respective home countries, but like–visas. Jobs. How.

    • mama of 2

      Relationships are built around joint decisions: “What are we doing today?” “Where should we go for dinner?” “Should we move to this city or that city?” “Should we have kids?” Even if you love hanging out with this guy and being with him, the fact is that if you can’t make decisions together, you shouldn’t be tied together for the long term. If I were you, I’d enjoy the waning days of this program and then let it go.

    • Calico

      I was with a guy exactly like this for five years. We got along so well and in many ways it was the best relationship I had ever been in. I would try to talk to him about our future or problems that arose and he would always tell me that he was “bad at that stuff.” I wished I believed him the first time. There was so much good that I hung on for far too long. I read the book recommended on here, Too Good to Leave, Too Bad to Stay. I think it helped clarify for me his lack of communication wasn’t going to change. It was so painful to end it (he had nothing to say, btw) but I’m so much better off. Good luck to you!

      • Anon

        I filed for divorce last week, after 16 years, with this same kind of guy. I think he was/is genuinely bad at all things emotional, which turns out not to work for me in a partner.

    • TCFKAG

      My DH is like that…to an extent. He’s not a huge talker and he really doesn’t love talking about feeling. And when it came time for me to leave town to go to law school there were definitely some tense, avoidance conversations before it came to a head. Here’s the thing – you say you don’t know what YOU want. Conversations you’ve had before have been inconclusive. He’s probably feeling really confused and unsure of what he wants. When he says “I don’t know” when prompted – he’s not just avoiding, he’s also being truthful. There are some real, surmountable (but difficult) problems with a trans-continental relationship.

      So, I think you need to sit down and organize your feelings about the issue. Make a list. Come up with at least a proposed strategy. Decide what you want at least in theory. Then talk to him. You may have to prompt him to comment on specifics. You may need to let him walk away and come back. And no matter what, he may never talk about it in the same way as you do (he may focus on different issues than you do, you may have different priorities, try for that to be okay). I know this can be frustrating, but understanding differences in how people communicate in relationships is a vital step in taking a few month relationship into new territory (if you decide that’s what you want to do). Its not necessarily a deal breaker – but you have to accept that its an area you have to meet on the middle for and there’s not necessarily a “right” way and a “wrong” way – there are different ways.

        • SFBayA

          My DH might say that I’m the uncommunicative beast in our relationship. Let’s just say that thanks to major family baggage and an evil ex, I have a very difficult time talking about feelings and future plans and other Important Things. I am extremely risk averse and have control issues and am deeply afraid of uncertainty, so long term future discussions about Important Things are usually very anxiety-inducing for me. And I hate saying “yes” to things I am not 1000000000% sure about because I’m afraid of being wrong or disappointing DH by later changing my mind, so a lot of the time, my answer to an Important Question is “I don’t know.” I really don’t know, because the only way I know something is if am absolutely positively without a shred of doubt sure, and it’s hard for me (or anyone) to be THAT sure about anything. I also don’t process emotional conversations quickly, so when I get put on the spot with an Important Question, my answer is almost guaranteed to be “I don’t know” because I haven’t had a chance to (over)analyze it yet. You can all guess how frustrating this is for DH. I swear I have redeeming qualities.

          The best way to deal with me is to bring up a topic, state your piece, and not expect all the feedback right away. I want to go think about what you said and how you feel about it quietly by myself and then I can talk about it some more. Fact-probing, open-ended questions are legit and manageable for me, but yes/no questions and their inherent requirement that I absolutely commit one way or the other will make me anxious and retreat. You can also use questions to get me to narrow to boundaries – instead of “Do you want to have kids next year? When should we start?” which will get an I don’t knowwwww because I’m not ready to have kids now and I’m not for sure going to want kids next year, ask questions that result in me saying that I am sure that I want kids, and I am sure I want to have them before age X, probably before age X-N. Not the answer DH is looking for (“next year? y/n”), but it’s more information than he had before. And as I get used to the idea, the “N” has been increasing. And yes, sometimes, too bad, so sad, I need to suck it up and talk about the Important Thing even through all the anxiety, but it really helps to not be put on the spot every time and it’s more productive when we work within my issues.

          We Beasts are sorry. We have damage that we have a hard time dealing with, and one of the ways we deal with it is by being extremely emotionally guarded on Important Things.

    • Lynnet

      My husband does this. I (clearly) don’t think it’s a dealbreaker. I think the most helpful thing for me was realizing that he doesn’t talk through decisions, he thinks through them and comes to a conclusion. To me, it feels like nothing is happening on a problem because I can’t see any of the progress being made, while to him it feels like I’m pressuring him to make a decision before he’s thought it through. While I won’t say it’s not still a problem from time to time (we’ve been together 10 years), now when we have to make a big decision I’ll talk it through with him, since that’s what I need, and then he’ll think it through, and then we’ll decide.

      We also quantify things a lot and talk through decisions analytically, which he finds easier than discussing things emotionally, and which is good for me, since it forces me to look at things from a different perspective.

  7. Dry shampoo

    Reposting in the hope of more recs – thanks to the three who responded.

    Any recs on a dry shampoo for very fine, black, curly hair? I’m looking for something that does not leave a white residue, is not toxic, and has a reasonable or no smell. I have a small baby, so the importance of something with no harsh chemicals/nasty smell is a priority. I’m willing to pay more for a good product.

    • darjeeling

      I have lighter hair but use a Redken spray that seems to be colorless, I think it’s the Redken Refresh. It does have a smell but it’s pleasant (to me- smells like fancy salon product).

    • Anon in NYC

      I have dark brown wavy hair. I use blow Pro Faux Dry Shampoo with Pure Protein Blend (you can find it on Amazon). It’s a powder, which took some getting used to (it can come out quickly), but after getting the hang of it, I love it. I feel like it really works for second day hair.

    • Hollis

      Maybe I’m just getting old and clueless, but what’s the purpose of dry shampoo? What do you do with it? Do you want it to sit there, or do you comb it out?

      • hoola hoopa

        It’s buys you a day of looking groomed without a shower, for those “I should have showered yesterday” days. You spray it on and brush, brush, brush until it absorbs the oil and sort of disappears. It’s ideal for moms of babies or those who pull all-nighters or late nights at the office.

    • Meg Murry

      My hair is brown, not dark dark black, but I’ve had as much luck with a mix of cornstarch and baking soda as any commercial product – especially if I apply at night with moderate brushing, then do the thorough brushing in the morning. I do about 2 parts cornstarch to 1 part baking soda and sprinkle only on the roots, then let it spread to the rest of the hair with combing or brushing. There is also a recipe here that suggests adding cocoa powder if you have dark hair, but I’ve never tried that before. http://wellnessmama.com/5047/diy-dry-shampoo/

  8. Ms. Basil E. Frankweiler

    If anyone is looking for a little laugh this morning, check out this video I found last night (link to follow). It’s only a minute.

    I love it because the guy is so earnest. I want to drive to Burbank just to give him my business.

  9. womp womp

    You guys, I am bummed. I volunteered to run several huge fundraising projects at my church, and although I got tons of compliments on how well they went, the bottom lines haven’t met the (admittedly *very* ambitious) goals. I know this is a much bigger problem and that in that kind of concentrated population, I can’t *force* people to give more money–but I can’t help feeling like a failure.

    Any words of wisdom?

    • SW

      I don’t know if these are words of wisdom, exactly, but it is not due to any failure on your part. I assist with fundraising for several nonprofits in my community. In my experience, there has been a sharp decline in donations even compared to just a few years ago. I recently had multiple companies tell me they have stopped charitable giving entirely because the last year was so bad for them. Individual sponsorships have dropped off as well.

      It sounds like your events were well-planned and executed, and you should be very proud of yourself for even agreeing to take on such big projects. Most people are very intimidated by the thought of chairing even small fundraisers, and it is a wonderful thing you did for your church.

      • ohc

        This. Stepping up to run those fundraisers was a huge gift to your church community, regardless of how they did. You raised some money, right? (I’m assuming yes.) And that’s money that wouldn’t have gone into the coffers had your events not been so well-organized and well-executed, so you are coming out ahead regardless of how you compare to your ambitious goals.

    • Houston Attny

      I’ve helped plan a couple of silent/regular auctions, and here’s something I’ve noticed. Most of the time, people want a deal. The $100 gift card for $50? Yes! But the $100 gift card for $100 or even for $150 because, after all, it’s a fundraiser? Absolutely not. Only one auction I was a part of had some very rich people attending, and give they did. 2 tickets to a college football game that are $100 face value? Sure, I’ll pay $300. That kind of thing. It was really about raising money and thinking of the auction item they won almost as an afterthought.

      But that’s the mentality of the people attending, not the planner. I’m sure you’ve done great.

      I’ve done this sort of thing for church, and I know the unrealistic expectations people have. And sometimes, they must think of it in terms of the leaves on the trees and not just the whole big forest: “what you are expecting to raise requires each person attending to give $150” or whatever. “Do you think they will do that? Will you give $150? Will your husband and your two kids?” No, probably not. Please keep doing what you’re doing. Your church needs you!

    • Fundraising Consultant

      This is a big problem a lot of organizations run into. They set goals too quickly and solely based on wants/needs without actually looking at the potential of reaching that benchmark. Then no one feels successful, including donors.

      Is there a council or committee that creates the budget? Perhaps you could speak to your pastor about having a voice at the very front end of these types of decisions. You’ll have the experience and data to back up your suggestion for reducing the goals in future years. That could be a win-win – the church isn’t counting on revenue that will never be realized, and you, your volunteers and your donors have the opportunity to achieve success.

      • Meg Murry

        Yes, I’d recommend this as its common in both the corporate world and non-profits. “Well, last year’s goal was x, so this year we should aim for x+10%” – without looking at whether previous years goals were actually met, or if there was some kind of extenuating circumstance (like someone writing a big check after the fact) to meet the goal. I’ve found in the corporate world it tended to be more about timelines than $ goals, but its the same idea – trying to do better than previous years’ goals, without first seeing if those goals were actually met.

        If I were you, I’d also make a big deal about publicly thanking your committee and church members in general for how well you DID do – otherwise, next year people might think “I contributed all I could last year and all I heard was that it wasn’t enough – I’m not going to bother this year.”

        • womp womp

          Thank you all for this feedback! SW and ohc, I appreciate your kind words, and Houston Attny, Fundraising Consultant, and Meg Murry, I’m glad to have some strategies from other people in the trenches. I have already been in touch with the board and the minister to explain why I thought the goals for this year (and proposed for next year) were out of line, and my team got a lot of public acclaim at church last week. I will hold my head high in the weeks to come.

  10. Salary Requirements?

    So I’m applying to a job posting that asks for Resume, Cover Letter, and Salary Requirements. (unfortunately the name of the firm is confidential, so it makes it tough to figure out if my salary will fit with them.) I’ve never applied to anything that asked me to list salary requirements before, so where do I put them? In the cover letter? In a separate page? Do I just straight up say I require X? Or say something like X, but negotiable?

    Thanks!

    • A Nonny Moose

      I’ve always put it in the conclusion of my cover letter. I give a 10k range and say depending on available benefits.

  11. Legally Brunette

    I finally got an iPhone, and was wondering if anyone can recommend a good app for recording how much I walk around every day. I’m looking for an app that can tell when I’m walking vs. when I’m stationary – does this exist? Thanks!

    • momentsofabsurdity

      You could use something like Run Keeper for this, I use it to track walks sometimes.

      But in general, if you keep the GPS on all day long (which I think you’d have to, if it was constantly tracking whether you were moving or sedentary) I think you might run down the battery fairly quickly? Others can probably chime in on that.

      • A Nonny Moose

        +1 on everything here. I use runkeeper to track walks with my dog as well as my jogs and bike rides, but it eats up the battery. You may be better off with a fitbit or something similar.

      • Alanna of Trebond

        Honestly, the Moves app drains battery like that is its job. I had to turn it off because I had to keep my phone charging all day.

    • FedTaxAtty

      Get a fitbit. The new zip is economical ($50ish?). It syncs with an app on your iPhone if you have a 4S or higher. The app updates whenever you set it to.

  12. In House Counsel

    Shopping PSA — I have two different unique codes for 25% off at Coach thru May 12th.

    I won’t be using them so wanted to offer them up here in case anyone has need for it.

    DX947005

    DU889414

  13. men's fashion blogs?

    My husband wants me to help him update his wardrobe–he just lost some weight (yay!) and needs new everything. While I pay attention to women’s fashion trends, I haven’t been paying attention at all to what is fashionable in menswear. He mostly needs casual clothes, or something for the occasional wedding or nice dinner or something. I looked on Pinterest, but a lot of the images were of men who looked kinda… well, not very masculine. I showed him some of the pictures I liked, and he vetoed anything involving a man wearing a scarf or carrying a handbag. So, I’m wondering, can anyone recommend a good men’s fashion blog or website for inspiration?

  14. Mpls

    I don’t understand – what is this white stuff falling from the sky? #westerosproblems

    • NOLA

      No snow here but it’s been raining for over a week with tornados and flash flooding. I think it was in the low 80s yesterday and it’ll be in the 50s by this evening. We just want it to stop raining. It’s so depressing!

      • Mpls

        We’d probably be right there with you, if it was just a little bit warmer. 9 inches of heavy wet snow (15 in some places) translates into some serious water. I too would like to see some blue sky again.

  15. Equity's Darling

    I’m doing some American securities legislation research, and obviously I need to take a US Legal Research Class because your stuff is a) hard to find; and b) hard to read.

      • goldribbons

        +1. I can’t even figure out how to fill out the “how much taxes should we withhold” new employment forms.

    • Nonny

      Oh my friend, commiseration from this end. Every time I have to do American securities research I basically have to reserve an entire day just to get my head around it. Avoidance is key.

      Of course, at this point in my life, that’s what articling students are for. :-)

    • j

      Securities was by far my favorite class in law school, and I still think researching/reading it is terrible. It’s like untangling a gigantic knot and every time you think you’ve finally gotten it, it just tightens itself back up. Urg.

    • TO Lawyer

      I’m responding a little late but I feel you. I think I need an American securities law primer in order to get my head around what’s going on. Basically, every time I need to do research that requires US law, I end up confused and in need of a very large glass of wine.

      • Equity's Darling

        Down with US Securities laws! The foreign junior lawyers are revolting! We demand more organized laws/regs/rules/policies!

        I think I’m heading back to TO for the Canada Day long weekend, probably Thursday to Tuesday? I’m formally requesting a drinks night with you where we plan our SEC coup (or …you know..talk about clothes, boys and realize that we likely have a dozen mutual friends in common, because…well, the legal community is small). I feel like you have my email address? cdn[this site] at google mail, or my personal one, if you do have it.

    • NOLA

      A big bottle of champagne and a demonstration video of the “I can’t be fired” dance.

    • TCFKAG

      If you don’t want to alcohol and are familiar with their tastes/style – maybe a poster or picture for their office? Every professor I know had tons of fun, quirky stuff displayed in their offices.

      • NOLA

        Yeah, you know I do, too. People have bought me silly things like Austin Powers figurines or Derek Jeter batting or a stuffed Boeuf Gras.

    • hoola hoopa

      Perfect suggestions, thank you!

      NOLA, I very much hope (and expect!) that they are doing the “I can’t be fired” dance right now!!!

      • saacnmama

        I agree on the quirky stuff. It’s best if it ties into their research/teaching somehow, but that’s easier for some fields than others.

  17. chattyesq

    TJ – looking for a romantic May weekend anniversary getaway w/in a 2-3 hour drive from NYC. Any suggestions?

    • LeChouette

      North Fork of LI? wineries, views, and fewer crowds as it’s pre summer?
      Newport, RI, especially if you like boats
      If you are splurge ready you could do the Mayflower Inn in Washington CT. Pretty quiet up there but if that’s what you like it’s easy to get to.

      • rosie

        I have heard wonderful things about the Mayflower Inn. If that’s where you end up, have dinner at the Good News Cafe, which is pretty close. It is amazing and lovely.

    • LH

      Newport, Rhode Island? I went there for a weekend & loved it. Lots of cute B&Bs you could stay in, good restaurants to eat at, cliff walk is very pretty.

    • AFT

      Hanson is playing the Wilmington Flower Market on Sat. May 11. Just sayin. Longwood Gardens is about a 20 minute drive from there, which is a really lovely and relaxing way to spend an afternoon/early evening.

    • Francie Nolan

      Waters Edge Inn and Spa in WestBrook CT. They do a nice couples massage and have dinner and dancing. You can also go walk around Essex, CT or go to Mystic, CT . There are tons of cute little shops and the coastline is lovely.

  18. wintergreen126

    I know moisturizers have been discussed before, but for those of you who have skin that reacts badly to SPF, what moisturizer do you use on your face? Or have you found something with SPF that doesn’t bother you too badly? I prefer to use something with SPF, especially now, but the redness and irritation isn’t worth it.

    • hoola hoopa

      I use a non-SPF moisturizer and use cosmetics to provide the physical blocker. And wear a hat that my husband mocks mercilessly but makes me feel like Audrey Hepburn ;)

    • tesyaa

      Look for a moisturizer with titanium dioxide ONLY as the active SPF ingredient. This is a physical block (not an irritating chemical block). Try Neutrogena, but I think there are others. This is as non-irritating as you can get.

        • wintergreen126

          Unless my Google-fu is failing me, I think this has been replaced by Prevention+ line. But I will look into this, for sure.

          Thank you!

          • Kanye East

            I think they just reformulated it, but I didn’t realize they changed the name. Amazon sells it if you can’t find it through a local aesthetician.

      • jcb

        Doubly agreed. Physical sunblockers only, no chemicals (though there are other physical blockers, I think – like zinc oxide). I have tried just about everything out there, drugstore brands to fancy brands, and finally settled on Skinceuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense (SPF 50). Works great, doesn’t feel heavy or greasy once it dries, and isn’t shiny.

        • wintergreen126

          Do you layer this over moisturizer? I don’t wear makeup, other than maybe lipgloss, which is why I hoping to find a non-irritating moisturizer with sunscreen.

          • ohc

            I’ve been using the Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer (SPF 40), which came highly recommended by other folks here, and I like it A LOT. I don’t wear makeup either, so this works beautifully.

    • anon

      I have a lot of skin allergies and I use one from the Body Shop’s sensitive skin line – they have 2 day creams and one has SPF, that’s the one I use. I’m allergic to a lot of sunscreens and I don’t react to it. I actually just bought more yesterday and they’re having a buy 2 things get 1 free promotion right now.

    • Barbie

      My big issue with SPF was that it made my eyes sting and water all day. My derm recently recommended EltaMD, which you can get with a really high SPF (45-50). It is thick, but I have found that it goes on clear, not greasy, and not runny (i.e., I have gone running and biking, and it hasn’t melted or bothered my eyes). The truth is that it isn’t even so expensive — it is about the same cost as, say, Clinique moisturizer, but the package is a bit larger. You can buy online or get through a derm — if you have one, you may want to ask for samples to make sure you like it before you commit.

      • gre

        I bought the EltaMD recently, and it does go on great. However, it just doesn’t layer well with makeup.

    • wintergreen126

      Thank you for the suggestions! I’ll definitely look into these–especially those without chemical sunscreens.

    • Bonnie

      Thank you for the suggestions! I’ll definitely look into these–especially those without chemical sunscreens.

  19. hoola hoopa

    Has anyone ordered from Cottonwork? I was looking at their custom shirts thinking that they’d do custom measurements, but it looks more like custom design only. Can anyone verify?

  20. KinCA

    Any suggestions for a nice yet easy to travel with hostess gift?

    A good friend recently moved out of state, and I’ll be visiting over Memorial Day weekend for 3 nights. I’m looking for something that’s nice but is still able to put into a carry-on and make it through airport security/not take up a ton of space. I would like to keep it under $75. I was thinking of a nice candle (maybe from Anthro/Jonathon Adler) but am open to other ideas!

    • petitesq

      Is there a favorite baked good or treat from a local spot that she won’t be able to get in her new location? That could be fun. A beautiful summer time accessory might also be nice. In the candle realm, something like bathsalts or special soaps could work as well.

      • Meg Murry

        Yes, if she recently moved, can you casually ask her what she misses about where she used to live and then get her something along that theme? Or a tshirt or print from somewhere in her previous town? For good, cheap pictures, I’ve found framing postcards to be a nice way to display pictures of my favorite places. You could even bring the postcards with you and then order the frame online to arrive while you’re there or once you’re gone.
        Or you could just bring a recipe and make breakfast/brunch/another meal while you are there – anything special the 2 of you like to eat?

    • Plan B

      I’d love to hear hostess gift recommendations, as I’m visiting a friend over Memorial Day as well! I’ve been trying to think of what to get my friend, and if I come up with any good ideas, I’ll post those as well.

    • hoola hoopa

      A friend who recently visited brought me a t-shirt from a local-to-her trend landmark. It’s not the typical hostess gift, but I loved it and it was easy for her to pack. When I wear it, I think of her. Other fabric goods (table linens?) would work as well.

  21. momentsofabsurdity

    Sigh, gr, argh. Just got my lottery information for grad housing (limited housing availability, determined by lottery) and my number sucks.

    Sigh, gr, argh. Hopefully it’ll all work out in the end.

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