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Our daily TPS reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices. This week’s TPS reports come to you from guest poster Staci Zaretsky, who blogs with our friends over at Above the Law.
If you’re looking for another jacket to add to your wardrobe, I've got to recommend this one to you. I love Ann Taylor, and I've been building my suiting from this store for years. I bought this jacket last weekend, and it not only looks great, but it feels great too. It’s made of cotton sateen, so it feels silky smooth to the touch. It comes in two colors, Cobbled Path (tan) and Dark Sky (navy-ish), but I think Cobbled Path would be great if you want this to be a summery suit. I bought it with the matching pencil skirt, and I absolutely love it. It comes in regular, petite, and tall, with sizes ranging from 00 to 18. It's $159 at Ann Taylor. Ann Taylor Cotton Sateen One Button Jacket
Seen a great piece you'd like to recommend? Please e-mail tps@corporette.com.
Cotton Jackets
J crew has a similar jacket- the Thompson. I have been itching to try it. Does anyone have it? Does it wrinkle like crazy because it’s cotton/rayon?
Also, I ordered some BR Sloan pants. They don’t fit that well in the crotch already, I imagine they might stretch out over the course of a day. Anyone have any experiences they would like to share? The alternative is getting J Crew minnie pants- I had a pair in twill I believe that did not stretch out and sag, they are just faded now due to being a few years old. I wonder if minnie’s are work appropriate though.
Diana Barry
I don’t like the Minnie style bc they don’t fit me right, but I do have a couple pairs of the “Eaton boy trouser” from J crew that I wear to work…they are not skin tight and are more work-appropriate IMO. I get the tall so they hit at the ankle bone.
Batgirl
The Sloan pants stretch almost an entire size. Mine went from feeling too tight to almost feeling a bit too loose. It worked well for me because they’re comfortable and fit pretty well (I don’t love tight pants) but I can see this being a problem if you didn’t anticipate it. I was warned so it worked well.
Cotton Jackets
Good to know. Maybe I should exchange for a smaller size.
Batgirl
I think I bought mine in an 8 (I’m normally an 8) and they were comfortable…and then huge. Then I bought them in a 6 and they stretched by the end of the day to what I would normally want to wear.
Erin @ Girl Gone Veggie
I’ve always wanted a pair of J.Crew Minnies. They look so cute.
Orangerie
Depends on where you work. The Minnie pants are very form fitting, so I don’t think they’d be appropriate for business casual in a more conservative field. If your office is truly casual, go for it.
Mpls
This – I would treat the Minnies like leggings and wear longer/tunic tops. The Sloans, I feel, are more pant-like and can function with shorter hems on the top. I did size up on the pair of Sloan I bought recently – mostly because that was the size they had in the sale section and I wasn’t quite ready to go that tight (even knowing they’d stretch). They wore okay – maybe got a little baggy in the butt by the end of the day, but not crazy falling off baggy.
anonymous
I am a huge Sloan fan. When I’m not wearing a suit to work, I’m wearing a Sloan pant. While it’s true that they stretch, I don’t see a massive difference that would prevent me from continuing to wear them. For my body, it’s the most flattering BR style, so I’m sticking to it. (I find that the Martin fit makes me look very boxy).
For me, the problem w/ Sloan is the waist — I find that it is too large, which means that the pants usually look better with a tucked-in shirt, though I often opt not to do that.
Anonattorney
Be very careful how you wash the Sloan pants! I washed on cold and dried on the delicates setting, and they still shrunk a whole size. Definitely air dry.
PolyD
Huh. I got mine dry-cleaned and I am not happy with the results, although I think it’s the cleaner’s fault, not the pants. The fabric almost got warped or something. Maybe I will now try washing these in cold and letting them hang dry.
Clementine
When you have them damp, physically stretch them with your hands a few times- it really does help.
I’ve also heard that soaking them in cold water with some conditioner (regular hair conditioner) will help. Theoretically, it helps relax the fibers.
Spirograph
I like it, but cotton sateen sounds like I would look rumpled by 10am. And then I’d have to iron before I wore it again… which would not happen.
Baconpancakes
Can anyone report on whether this is true? I really need a tan summer suit, but I also simply would not iron it and it would sit in my closet.
anon-oh-no
everything i have that is cotton sateen is actually the opposite. its almost like a non-iron shirt.
tru dat
This has been my experience, too. Cotton sateen is basically wrinkle-resistant.
CKB
It depends on the quality of the fabric. I have three cotton sateen pencil skirts and two of them don’t wrinkle badly at all, but the third does wrinkle more. However, they don’t wrinkle as some cotton button front shirts I have.
VaCatLady
Completely agree. It really depends on the brand and the materials they’re using. I have a cotton sateen suit from Banana Republic and it doesn’t wrinkle much at all. However, the cotton blazer I got from JCrew looks like I’ve slept in it by the end of the day. It’s one of those fabrics you might want to see in person before you buy.
AEK
I bought three of the skirts on sale earlier this season. They wrinkle a bit in the front on the sit-crease, but the whole thing doesn’t turn into a wrinkled mess. I feel presentable throughout the day, anyway. I get multiple wears by spritzing them with diluted alcohol before re-hanging; the wrinkle disappears before the next wear. I will say that I bought mine a size up to accommodate tucking; I could see wrinkling being a bigger problem if you had a close fit.
LT IT
Tried this jacket but sent it back. Too boxy which is easily fixable w alterations but shoulder pads much too big for me. Liked the short length to wear with dresses and over a flowy blouse. Some reviewers complained that it was too short for them tho – I’m esp short-waisted myself so not a factor.
Aggie
Sent it back as well, it was too boxy and far too short. The hem was barely below my elbows. A one button cropped jacket is just not flattering on me. I am hesitant to buy AT’s cotton sateen in dark colors because it fades quickly. But the one benefit of a cotton sateen is five minutes in a hot dryer will solve all wrinkle troubles.
Pro tip – never buy AT full priced, join the mailing list and wait for a 40% off coupon if you have the time.
Dwight
My job title is along the lines of Assistant Regional Manager, and the Regional Manager is constantly referring to me as his assistant, which makes it sound like I am the Assistant to the Regional Manager. I have pointed out to him the confusion that creates, and if anything he now refers to me as his assistant even more often. It is probably relevant that he is terrible at his job and finds me threatening. Do I just have to suck it up and deal or is there a way of correcting him that doesn’t come across as petty?
Michael Scott
Your title is Assistant TO the Regional Manager. Big difference!
Anastasia
hahaha I think you’re on the right track by pointing out the The Office parallels, if he’s cool enough to get it!
It sounds like you have to help yourself out, since you apparently cannot rely on him to convey your correct position. Make sure your e-mail signature block is clear, and when you’re introduced to people, say something like, “hi, I’m Dwight, Regional Manager’s deputy.” Or be even more specific about what tasks you are in charge of so people know what your responsibilities are rather than just associating you with a title that may not be correct.
Amelia Bedelia
can you make sure to always introduce yourself at the beginning of the meeting as the assistant regional manager? that way all parties to the conversation are aware of your real title?
absent that, I’m at a loss for what to do. This would make me crazy, though.
Orangerie
I think announcing her title at the beginning of every meeting would create more problems than it would solve.
Erin @ Girl Gone Veggie
Me too. I would be so annoyed with my boss doing that.
Future Dwight
Dwight, at eight a.m. today, someone poisons the coffee. Do not drink the coffee. More instructions will follow. Cordially, future Dwight.
Anonymous
Which bear is best?!
Orangerie
Identity fraud is not a joke, Jim.
Diana Barry
False. Black bear!
Anonymous
Thats debatable.
Mischief Managed
bears beets Battlestar Galactica
Anon
I tried on this jacket. I thought that the material looked a little cheap and it draped awkwardly across the bust.
tru dat
“I thought that the material looked a little cheap”
I mean, it is Ann Taylor. . . .
Batgirl
Guys, I’m overwhelmed. My wardrobe is abysmal. I need help.
I used to stop by stores on my lunch break or way home from work, but since switching offices and moving, that’s no longer an option. Weekend shopping trips are overwhelming because it’s a trek, and I get tired after a couple (often unproductive) hours. I also used to buy a lot from Banana Republic but its deteriorating quality has left me with all recent purchases quickly falling apart. I’m overwhelmed at the prospect of buying a whole new wardrobe when I have very little free time to shop and not a ton of money to play with.
Any suggestions for how to tackle the daunting task of building up a new wardrobe? Any Banana Republic replacement stores I should consider? I’ve had good luck at Ann Taylor, but not as much as I’d like to. I’m fairly good on pants/skirts but don’t have a lot of versatile tops (particularly summer tops). I would love to have another one or two-stop shop plan, but I’m at a loss for where to look. I also am a bit constrained budget-wise so while I’d love to buy lots of high quality items, I just need too many things right now to do that across the board. My office is on the casual side of business casual, particularly in the summer.
Thanks for any advice you can give!
Anon
I look for things I like online and read reviews to get a sense for things like quality and fit. Sometimes I just order online and send it back if I have to and other times I make a stop to try things on. I keep a list of stuff I’ve found online that I like, and I find that’s an enormous time saver.
JJ
Nordstrom. Just browse online and order what you think will work. You can always return what doesn’t work, no questions asked. I don’t remember the last time I went clothes shopping in a store (other than Target while I was getting groceries). ALL my clothes shopping is online.
Anon in NYC
+1 to this. Nordstrom’s has become a lifesaver for me. I do not have the patience or time to wander aimlessly through stores. I do almost all of my shopping online, and the free shipping/returns is fantastic.
Sydney Bristow
I shop almost exclusively online. Zappos is another great place with easy free shipping and returns and they have more clothes that you might expect. Their returns process is extremely quick in my experience. I’ve sent something back on a Thursday and had my return processed the next Tuesday.
PolyD
+2. I find the stores in my DC suburb to be messy and poorly stocked. Can’t remember the last time I bought something at an actual store. Oh wait, I bought a couple of t-shirts at H&M.
I think Nordstrom, Ann Taylor, etc. are great recommendations for getting started. My office is very casual, so I can’t recommend much. I actually like Lord and Taylor, but their online shopping sucks. Macy’s isn’t bad. I like White House Black Market, too, although you do have to be a bit selective, they tend to skew sparkly sometimes.
Never feel guilty about ordering a bunch of stuff solely to get free shipping and then bringing most of it back!
AnonLawMom
+1. If Nordstrom doesn’t have it online, I likely don’t own it. I’m way too busy to shop IRL.
Diana Barry
Do you have any outlets near you? If so, you could hit them when they open and it might be less overwhelming.
I would also try Boden for high quality (get a 20% off plus free shipping code, or their clearance section) and Forever 21 for cheaper tops that will be good enough.
Lately I buy almost everything online. I wait for a sale and free shipping for everything. I also try (when possible) to buy and return within the same billing cycle so I don’t get extra charges for the month.
Blonde Lawyer
I have had some luck w/ Jones NY $99 suit sales. They also sometimes have the same suits at the outlet stores. Not all of their suits are stylish but there are some very nice ones.
Anon
I also vote Boden. It has become my go to now because it reliably fits and everything is lined. Great quality – just wait for a sale. I don’t buy anything without free shipping or on clearance.
Spirograph
I buy almost everything online, because shopping with a toddler in tow is not fun or productive. I prefer to buy things where there is a brick-and-mortar store nearby that I can return to, unless return shipping is free. I can’t block off hours to shop, but I can run in with some returns. I routinely buy 10+ things at a time, multiple sizes if I’m not sure how things run, and just plan on returning most of it. It’s my version of taking stuff to the changing room. Time carefully with your credit card billing cycle if necessary!
Aside from AT, I’d check out whatever local department store is comfortable for your budget. I find department stores overwhelming to shop in person, but online I filter by my size and article of clothing I’m looking for, and they’re easy.
Orangerie
I do the same, and I like the changing room analogy.
Burgher
With the added bonus that you can try it on with things you already own!
Lily student
And with the right underpinnings (colour more than anything)
love cardis
Nordstrom! Make an appointment with a personal stylist. It is FREE. You will have a quick phone consult, and then lots of stuff in the fitting room. She can also swap out sizes while there, call alterations, etc – and send you home with all of your purchases and accessories. I do it 2-4 times a year. Yes, you spend a lot up front (only what you are comfortable with), but then have a closet full of clothes you love and look good in. Good luck!
SFAttorney
Yes, yes! This is a big time saver and it is not as tiring as shopping on your own. You can let her know what your budget is. I have also sent photos of myself in advance wearing favorite outfits to a Nordstrom personal stylist. She really got my style and preferences!
DC Association
I’m wondering…if you use a personal stylist at Nordstrom, would they help you buy things that work with what you already own? LIke, bring with you your most favorite closet items, or even bring photos/a list of all your wardrobe items, and they say OK we’ll work with this, or “To be honest, that is not flattering for you?” etc?
I LOVE to shop and wouldn’t give it up, but I need to get myself on more of a quality vs quantity method and think that having an impartial helper (i.e. the Nordstrom stylist) would really help.
DCR
I like Nordstrom, but it can be expensive. Macy’s might be a good option. It’s about the same price as BR and AT, and often has sales.
Anon
Macy’s now does free returns, and shipping is free at $99. I have tons of Macy’s purchases in my business casual wardrobe.
Batgirl
I should have added that I’m in NYC. I live a little far out in Brooklyn (not near many stores) so it’s a trek into Manhattan to shop and I find the stores there so crowded, sloppy, and overwhelming!
Thanks for the tips! I have always hated online shopping because I feel like I’m a hard-to-fit shape, but I will persist!
L
Get a tailor to take your measurements. I had the hardest time figuring out my size and realized my measurements that I took myself were off by several inches. Once you get a feel for a store then you know, but it saves you the hassle of ordering the same thing in 4 sizes.
JJ
Trust me, I’ll bet you can’t find a harder to fit shape than me. Learn your measurements and what styles are reliable for you. It takes a little more effort, but online shopping makes life SO much easier.
Jenny
I think also tailoring is your friend. It’s really made shopping so much less stressful and I now look so much better that I have really embraced getting things tailored. Now I basically have to buy the thing that I want in a shape that I generally flatters me and then take it to my tailor and for $20 or less it makes it look amazing.
Also, I really appreciate that it shifts the whole idea of shopping from feeling bad that my body doesn’t fit the clothes to making the clothes fit me. It’s been revolutionary. I highly recommend
Batgirl
I recently had a shift in thinking, too–from “oh, this looks terrible because I need to lose weight” to “this looks terrible because it isn’t cut for my body, which just isn’t proportioned the same way.” Still frustrating, but less blame! I have yet to find a tailor who would do much for $20, though. Still, onward! Thanks for the suggestions!
VaCatLady
I tend to read reviews online and shop a lot online as well. It seems like more than a few stores (Banana, JCrew, Ann Taylor, etc…) have let their quality go down in recent years.
As others have said, Nordstrom is great. I used to buy a lot at Banana Republic, but not since last year or thereabouts. Lately I’ve also had good luck at Talbots and Boden also has some cute, decently made tops.
Bonnie
I’ve stopped buying from BR as well and primarily shop online at Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, and Macys. Every other month or so, I take the rejects and return to the stores at Tyson’s
Weird Email?
My boss is out of the office for three days. Visiting her 20-something daughter about 2000 miles away. Called the office twice yesterday to talk to our shared assistant.
I sent her two emails: one a heads-up about a legal matter, one an answer to an administrative question she asked recently. We typically email while either of us is out of the office. (And she regularly expects me to handle substantive legal matters via email while I am on vacation, which I do.)
She did not respond to the heads up about the legal matter.
She responded to the one about the adminstrative issue, saying that it would be better if I sent “these emails” while she is not on “vacation,” explaining that it will just get lost in the cracks and asking me to resend later this week.
How do I read this?
anon-oh-no
if its not something that needs her urgent attention, dont send it to her while she is on vacation. the fact that she sends you stuff while you are on vacation is irrelevant.
mascot
+1. It sounds like she really is trying to keep her vacation time sacred and would like to reserve email intrusions for 1) emergencies that she actually needs to deal with or 2) answers to questions she asks while out of the office. I wish more people did this. Also, I wouldn’t read her comment as a anything other than a straight-forward indication of preference.
Anon99
This is insane. You expect all your coworkers to manage your email flow for you while you’re on vacation? Let people do their jobs, and then when you get back from your vacation, do yours by handling the stuff that came in while you were away.
DCR
Yes, that would be insane if you expected all your co-workers to do that. But we are not talking about a co-worker here, but her boss.
Burgher
You can set an email to send at a particular date & time. I like to do this when I am working late at night and it is not an important email, especially with those colleagues that I know check their phones day and night and on the beach on vacation.
roses
She’s the boss and can set unfair double standards. It sucks, but there’s nothing you can do. Keep a running document with various things that happen while she’s gone, and set up a meeting to fill her in on everything when she returns.
Aggie
This. I love receiving digest emails when I return from vacation.
tesyaa
She doesn’t want to be bothered with admin stuff when on vacation? I think it’s self-centered to ask you to resend just in order that she doesn’t have to go through her box carefully, but she’s the boss and it’s her prerogative. I wouldn’t read anything more into it than that.
tesyaa
Self-centered isn’t the right word, but what I’m trying to say is that a lot of people wouldn’t stress about this. She apparently does.
Wildkitten
I find it very difficult to flag my emails on my blackberry in such a way that they show up flagged on my computer when I get back (this is user error, I know), so for me it is really helpful to get emails when I’m back at my desk so I can be sure they don’t slip through the cracks.
Ellen
Yay! I love Ann Taylor, but this kind of Sateen is not something I am familear with. I also think it is a littel to short for me and my tuchus, especialy when I have to loose extra pound’s in the tuchus! But for those in the HIVE that are svelte, go for it, and leave the longer blazer’s for peeople like me with larger tuchuses!
As for the OP, your manager must be distracted. Her family must be keepeing her busy. Just hold all e-mails b/c she said so, and then give them to her when she get’s back. If she scream’s, just tell her you were just doeing what she asked.
The manageing partner’s brother asked me if I wanted to meet him for dinner tonite. He said he no longer eat’s at home and his soon to be ex does NOT cook for him any more. He said he know’s of a place on 63rd that is very swankey that we should go to. I have no idea what place is there, but I am to text him later and he will give direction’s to me later when he come’s into the city. Now I am in a quandrey b/c I was hopeing to go to L&T this evening for a special sale. Why does life have to be this dificult for me! FOOEY!
Anon
What your boss is asking is reasonable. She’ll come back to a whole inbox full of emails, and she is saying she’d prefer that you not contribute to it by sending more. When my boss is on vacation, I keep him copied in on threads that he received from someone else, but I don’t send him any emails directly unless they really do require his attention while he’s out. If it can wait, I send it when he’s back. I feel like it’s part of my job to help him do his job well – and that includes prioritizing and helping him to not lose my emails in the shuffle of post-vacation catch-up.
Anonymous
Has anyone gotten lash extensions? Are they worth it? Are they professional?
Woods-comma-Elle
My sister did and she loved them, but ultimately they ended up being too high-maintenance so she stopped, as you have to have them redone really regularly if you want to keep them for the long term.
Legally Brunette
Search this site’s archives. There was a post about lash extensions (I believe the consensus was that it is very pricey and a signficant commitment – you have to get new ones every month, I recall). As long as they are subtle I think they would be professional.
buffybot
I got lash extensions for my wedding and kept them in for about 10 days? They were absolutely worth it for a special occasion. As far as every day is concerned, I’m less convinced. My mother-in-law does them regularly and they look very natural and normal, so as long as they are not a dramatic difference from your normal look, I think they’re as professional as wearing mascara (you have to be careful to go for the shorter lashes, however, for a more natural look). I wouldn’t do it regularly, though, because (1) it is not a short process and (2) I don’t think it’s good for your actual lashes in the long term. Also, expensive.
MNF
I have them and have had them for about 9 months. I get a “fill” every two weeks and it takes about 25 minutes for the appointment. Before having lashes, I used to wear eyeliner and mascara everyday for work (in addition to foundation, blush, and eyebrow gel). Now I only put a swipe of mascara on my bottom lashes and almost never wear eyeliner. It cuts down on my morning routine by 5-7 minutes, so I see the appointment time as worth it. I have to caution that it’s absolutely not worth the cost if you are the type of person who rubs their eyes or if you’re always smudging your mascara, they are relatively fragile and you have to learn to never touch them. Whether they are professional depends on the length you choose – get the length slightly longer than your own lashes. I’ve found that you have to really enforce this with your aesthetician who inevitably wants to give your stripper length lashes.
Anon
I didn’t like this suiting a week or so ago when it was a featured pick (reviews on AT’s website mention wrinkle-factor) and not changing my mind. Is it that hard not to repeat picks?
Sydney Bristow
Last week’s sponsored post was written by Kat and this pick is from a guest blogger. My guess is that they did not coordinate their picks. This is the first time I remember it happening on this blog ever, so I’d let it slide. It is also nice that the guest blogger has actually seen this jacket in person and could comment on that.
AIMS
Ha-I just posted the same thing in different words below. Jinx!
AIMS
Well, technically this is a guest post and the suit of the week is a Kat post. I actually really appreciate the fact this is a recommendation of something Staci tried and owns. I didn’t think much of this jacket from the suit pick because anything can look nice in a website picture, but I might give this a try now (as a jacket alone) based on the personal recommendation.
Staci
You know, I actually saw Kat’s post last week and then I went out and bought it since I’ve been shopping at AT since the dawn of time. I figured everyone would benefit from a personal rec on this item, since there were several reviews with complaints of it being too short. Truth be told, it *is* a little short, but it looks great when it’s matched with the right blouse/pants/skirt combination. I would know… I spent about an hour and a half in the store trying on clothes. As for the wrinkling issue, I had the jacket on in the store for a while, and I didn’t notice very many wrinkles, if any. YMMV though, maybe I was just lucky, and maybe the experience would have been different if I had been wearing it all day long. I still like this jacket a lot!
taz devil
If an employee can smell another employees makeup, then there is probably some sexual harassment/no dating policy that are being violated by both parties!!
Lisa
I think this jacket looks great, at least here on the web!
rook
wasn’t last week’s AT post linen though?
Staci
There was a linen one on top, and a sateen one featured below it. Here’s the full post:
https://corporette.com/2014/06/04/sponsored-ann-taylors-suiting-event-kicks-today/
OttLobbyist
TJ- Are office scent-free policies that include make-up going too far? We just got a reminder of our scent-free policy (scent sensitivity is recognized in legislation as a non-visible disability that must be accommodated in my jurisdiction) and the list included the usual stuff – perfume, hair products, moisturizers, deodorants,laundry detergent, etc…and also recommendations on scent-free make-up products. I kind of feel that this crosses the line a bit. I don’t want folks to get sick, but my goodness, there must be a balance. Thoughts?
Anon
I’m pretty sensitive to fragrances and I can say with confidence that I can’t smell anyone’s makeup (once it is on their face). Does lipstick have a distinctive scent when you open the tube? Sure…but it doesn’t travel. This is a weird policy.
roses
What makeup has scents besides, like, lip gloss for middle-schoolers? I think they were just trying to be thorough in the policy. If you can’t smell it when it’s on your face, it’s highly unlikely that someone else will (and I say this as someone with a severe perfume allergy).
NbyNW
Same here. Terrible perfume allergy and can’t use makeup with fragrances but am not bothered by, for example, my daughter’s makeup fragrance when I’m around her, hug her etc. I can’t imagine many people have rushed out to get new laundry detergent for their whole family based on this. I’ve never reacted to anyone else’s use of Tide, even though if I used Tide, I’d break out in hives and start sneezing within 10 minutes.
If I were you, I would be careful about lotion and hairspray and actual perfume and ignore the rest.
AEK
I feel like I can smell Cover Girl makeup from 5 paces, but I’m a super-smeller. I think this detail in the policy is both silly and unenforceable. If there is a person who actually has the stated disability and requests an accommodation, that is different; but to preemptively restrict any potential irritant isn’t practical or effective, IMO.
Orangerie
Agreed. What I don’t get about this type of accommodation is why can’t the person who has an issue move to a different location in the office? Perfume is one thing, since the scent can linger after the wearer leaves, but if someone really has an issue with the smell of makeup, it seems more reasonable for them to sit elsewhere rather than force the wearer to buy entirely new products.
mascot
I think it’s a bit odd, but maybe that information was included as a suggestion for the people who have sensitivities? Unscented cleaning products are generally pretty well labeled as such. For cosmetics, I think it is a bit harder to find truly scent free vs no artificial perfumes. I’ll give the policy the benefit of the doubt and assume that this was a mashup of actual policy and helpful (?) information.
taz devil
Sorry, responded to an earlier thread by accident!
If an employee can smell another employees makeup, then there is probably some sexual harassment/no dating policy that are being violated by both parties!!
NWanalyst
Wow, that does sound a little overboard. I’m highly, highly sensitive to all fragrances (natural and artificial) and my office doesn’t have a scent policy (HR actually scoffed when I asked). I actually use the restroom on a different floor because the combination of our air freshener and people’s perfume is too much for me in an enclosed space. That said, I only feel upset when someone is wearing “too much” scent… i.e. if I can’t smell it when I’m standing a professional distance from them, I’ll forgive a little sillage from time to time. Mostly, I just really appreciate it when people make an effort to avoid the heavily scented bath products and deodorants… those are the worst (I think they contain a lot of fragrance fixatives.)
Unless you’re in the habit of exchanging full-body hugs with all your coworkers, I can’t imagine that your workplace would even be able to know whether your makeup contains perfume. What are they going to do, sniff you?
treadmill upstairs?
I need some perspective on the incident that happened this morning…
I live in an apartment complex and have a treadmill. I bought it last November but started using it regularly only from last week. I use it around 6:30 to 7:30 in the morning. I searched for a treadmill that would make less noise when I bought it.
This morning, when I started walking on it, the downstairs neighbor came and asked me to stop using the treadmill because it is noisy for him downstairs. He further suggested that I can use it between 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (when I should be work). I didn’t know what to say and just told him that I was unaware that it is so noisy for him and I would make sure that he wouldn’t be disturbed again. I didn’t get on the treadmill after that.
I am very upset due to this incident. I got into a routine and now I got this complaint. I want to know what my options are. I think he is unreasonable by asking me to workout between 9:00 AM to 5:00PM when he knows that I work during that time. I have a rubber mat and I am willing to buy another one if it helps. My lease will expire in 6 months and I will look for a ground floor apartment at that time. What can I do in the meantime? Is it part of the apartment living and just stop using the treadmill? Is there something I can do so that I can workout at home?
Orangerie
It’s part of apartment living, but that goes both ways. Upstairs residents should be considerate of those below them (within reason), and downstairs neighbors should expect some noise. You can’t float, after all.
Personally I think 6:30 am is pretty early to be making noise like that, but I don’t think you should feel bad about using it in the evening after work. 5pm-9pm are perfectly reasonable hours to work out that wouldn’t disturb most people’s sleep.
Anon
Agreed. I think 8/9am to 9pm is pretty reasonable for “noisy” things in apartment settings (treadmills, vacuuming, etc).
Senior Attorney
I agree with this. I this 6:30 a.m. is too early, but evening until 9 or so is perfectly fine.
Anonymous
Agreed. Unfortunately, if your treadmill is waking him up at 6:30 every day I think that’s telling you the treadmill is too loud. Jumping bothers my downstairs neighbors so I just can’t do P90x. And you having been doing this a week so I’d let go of the idea that he’s disturbing your routine.
long time lurker
Adding another chorus to those who think 630 is too early. I am a downstairs neighbor. My current upstairs neighbors are pretty respectful – when they first moved in we brought them a bottle of wine and casually mentioned how the floors are really thin and you can hear everything although rugs help. To give an example – I can sometimes hear their cat when it runs and jumps (which I don’t mind at all). A treadmill at 6:30 would definitely wake me up and be something I would raise.
(former) preg 3L
If you had kids who were noisy, your downstairs neighbor would have to learn to live with it. Since you’re not doing your workout at 2am, I think your downstairs neighbor should get over it. Alternatively, you could put a carpet under the treadmill to cut down on the noise (as long as the treadmill will still function properly on top of carpet).
Anon
Disagree. Crying babies/children in the middle of the night or early morning hours fall into the category of things you have minimal control over. Hopping on a treadmill at 630am is something you have complete control over (and I’m a morning person, up long before 630am – but the only exercise I would do at my home at that hour is yoga).
Orangerie
+1. And after they are past the crying babies stage, parents shouldn’t let their kids run wild and make a ton of noise in an apartment setting just because they are kids. It’s rude.
treadmill upstairs?
The only reason I started working out at 6:30AM is that is the only time when I could work out. If I don’t work out at that time, I have to work out at 8:00PM. I really don’t have any control over my schedule from 8:30 AM to 7:30PM. I am not even a morning person and I started waking up early just so that I could squeeze in some work out before the day starts where I really don’t have much control on my schedule.
Anonymous
Then you need to run or walk outside. You just can’t be waking him up like this every day.
Anon
Right…but that doesn’t change the fact that you live in an apartment and are being inconsiderate to your downstairs neighbor by making noise, routinely, early in the morning.
Can you run outside instead? Join a gym? Do yoga/pilates?
treadmill upstairs?
I understand if I am waking him up every morning, so is it reasonable to walk on the treadmill at 8:00PM?
Orangerie
Agree with those above me. Either exercise in the morning outside or at a gym, or use your treadmill when you get home in the evening. 8pm is not that late.
Mpls
8pm is totally reasonable. 8 am to 10 pm would be totally reasonable hours to expect noise like that.
I’m guessing he’s saying 9 to 5, because that’s when HE’s not home?
anonness
8pm to 10pm can be unreasonable … think about us folks who go to bed early/wake up early. I go to bed from 8:30 to 9PM for reasonable amount of sleep. Not an issue at my apartment though as it’s quiet time 24/7.
AEK
Totally disagree. You can’t “get over” being awakened by noise early every morning, and communal living of this sort demands some concessions. Frankly, unless it’s a supermodern, noise insulated apartment, I think a treadmill is pretty un-doable. I’m thinking back to our vintage Chicago condo with wood floors and our very noisy upstairs neighbors with a very lonely dog who would bang his crate on the floor constantly. It made me miserable. So I really feel for the neighbor.
I would go back to the neighbor and ask him to agree to a compromise that works better for you than 9-5. And consider moving the treadmill and adding a rug and rug pad below your rubber mat if you don’t already have those things.
(former) preg 3L
Ok, you all made very good points. Sorry for my non-neighborly suggestion!!
HSAL
I don’t know if you can make it quieter, but would it be possible to move it to a different room? He doesn’t get to dictate when you can use it, but if it’s above his bedroom right now and you move it so it’s above his living room (just an example), that might lessen his disturbance. I’d probably be annoyed if your treadmill woke me up, but that’s just apartment life. You could also tell him that you won’t be using it during the day, but give him a few “time slots” in the morning and evening that work for you and let him weigh in, assuming you want to avoid him complaining to management.
AIMS
This is a good idea. Try to work with him on a plan that suits both of you. I think putting a rug under (not a rubber mat) could also diffuse some of the noise and maybe a different room would work. Or ask when he wakes up. Maybe he is up at 7 and won’t mind if you start your workout at that time.
Living in an apartment means having to deal with neighbors. It has its plusses and minuses. Just try to work out an arrangement that suits you both.
Wildkitten
Agreed – I would try putting other things under the treadmill or putting the treadmill in a different place to see if those fix the problem.
tesyaa
It sounds like he at least asked politely, unlike our former neighbors (long ago) who expressed their displeasure by banging loudly on the ceiling with a broom handle.
Treadmill Twins
I live on a second floor apt and never use my treadmill partly because of this very concern. His complaint doesn’t sound unreasonable to me, but I think there’s room for compromise. Can you run after work? If so, talk to him again. Let him know what you’ve told us about being at work 9 to 5 and that you are mindful of the situation. Propose you’ll limit your use from e.g. 5:30p.m. to 6:00p.m. and ask him to try this out for 1 week and you’ll check back with him then to see if the problem’s solved.
Anon
This happened to my sister when I lived with her except our downstairs neighbor filed a noise complaint with the complex rather than telling us. These were the same neighbors who regularly held all-night rowdy parties. Our complex told us they were treating it like any other noise complaint in that if we did not stop, we would be evicted. This is one of the reasons I refuse to ever live in an apartment again. I do currently live in a town home that is part of an apartment complex and we love it – I have never heard our neighbors and, to my knowledge, they have never heard us.
snowy
I wonder how loud it is for him downstairs? I only live in a downstairs apartment once, but they had a huge dog that would go nuts over anything, run around, bark and howl (it was a hound of some kind). I didn’t really think there was any kind of recourse, since they obviously couldn’t stop the dog from moving and barking. But, it wasn’t something that’d wake me up- just really, really annoying during the day if I happened to be home.
I guess my point is if it’s just “annoying” that’s one thing; if it’s “wakes you up out of sound sleep” that’s another.
treadmill upstairs?
Thank you ladies for chiming in. I get from all your comments that 6:30 AM is too early. I will use my office gym or look for cheap gym membership for time being as 6:30 AM is the time when I can spend an hour working out. This will cause me to wake up 30 mins early which is difficult for me but I will accept it as the part of apartment living. But on the days I miss the gym for any reason, I will have to use my treadmill between 8:00PM to 9:00PM with an extra rug under it. I will start looking for a town house or a ground floor apartment 3 months from now so that I have enough time to find one.
Anonymous
Or walk outside. I think you’re overly dramatizing this.
treadmill upstairs?
Anonymous at 1:57pm.
Feel free to think whatever you like.
late sleeper
You asked for perspective.
treadmill upstairs?
I asked for perspective on whether it was reasonable to use a treadmill in a second floor apartment . I never asked if I was dramatizing something or not. By the way I didn’t object to what she said…I said she was free to think whatever she likes. I
Nina
It’s not like walking on a treadmill is a good workout, anyway.
Dulcinea
Maybe you could try an elliptical or stationary bike; might be less noisy?
Anonymous
I live in an apartment with people both above and below me, and I am having a really hard time imagining a treadmill that would ever be appropriate in an apartment. Most models that are not gym-quality (in the $5000+ range) are going to be EXTREMELY noisy and no amount of extra rug is going to fix that. The apartment above me is carpeted and padded, and I can hear very loudly when their cell phone is on the floor and vibrates–it comes through louder than when my own phone vibrates. A treadmill would sound like an avalanche upstairs, and for 30 minutes, that’s unacceptable. Sorry, I think this is a no-go until you are on a ground floor.
DU
I agree. I had a treadmill I got rid of due to complaints from downstairs neighbors. Also, whoever said 10pm is reasonable to run a treadmill is insane. They are incredibly noisy, and the poor downstairs neighbor wouldnt be able to even hear a tv show, let alone sleep.
I can’t imagine how you all think 8pm is ok either. Basically, you cant make excessive noise. Treadmills are excessively noisy to the person below you. If I lived below you and asked you nicely not to and you continued to do so, I wouldnt be so nice next time. I’d just start calling the cops or apartment manager on you.
And lady, just run outside. You sound like a peice of work.
treadmill upstairs?
@DU
You can state your opinion on whether it is okay to use the treadmill or not and possible alternatives as I asked for opinion/suggestions. However you don’t get to judge me.
Seattle Freeze
Ohhh, you were doing so well till this point. Look, it’s a pool of anonymous online commenters – everyone’s judging everyone else here, just like they do in real life. As others have said many times before, take the advice that works for you, disregard the advice that doesn’t, and move on. Say “Fooey!” if you like.
Lily student
I think you just need to consult to find the best time for both of you – sounds like 8pm could be it.
For me, I wouldn’t mind someone above me on their treadmill at 6.30, because I’m always up and awake by then, but would prefer for them not to be on it after about 9.30pm because I like to wind down to sleep then – so it totally depends on your neighbours.
Lost
I am going to a conference that some co-workers are attending. I just found out that they are all staying at one hotel near the conference (I am staying at the conference hotel). They didn’t mention this to me and no one else is staying at my hotel.
This is typical for them but I am getting tired of the disfunction. Say something (if so, what?)? Just let mean girls be mean girls?
I feel like I am in third grade sometimes.
OttLobbyist
I would be asking yourself if you actually want to be at the same hotel as them. Conferences are opportunities to talk to new people, and/or do a bit of your own thing. Let them be mean girls, and focus on getting the most out of the conference for you. Alternatively, you can mention it by asking if they all got a better rate than at the conference hotel, and ask if they think it is worth switching to help manage costs.
snowy
That’s weird, but maybe they have their reasons. Like I have Hilton Honors, so I always pick a Hilton even if the conference is at a Marriott.
Your comment makes it sound like this is an ongoing issue though (them not including you) in which case, be as cordial as you can and make an effort to socialize to the extent that is necessary for your job. I had coworkers like this at another company and I would do something like, go to happy hour fora short time (where I knew they’d all be hanging out and clique-y and I’d be miserable), show my face, then leave and spend time with my actual friends.
NWanalyst
Whenever I’m in a large place with lots of new people to meet (like a conference), I actually try to take it as an opportunity to network. As an introvert, I find that if I don’t constantly open conversations with people, I get nervous and bad at it. So I think of these things as a great practice opportunity.
If you got along with your coworkers, I imagine you might be trying to get closer to them while avoiding letting them monopolize you. Since it sounds like your coworkers are actively avoiding you, I’d think you’re free of any obligation to spend a lot of time with them. If I were you, I’d fill my schedule with things I want to do, and then be strategically unavailable to the extent that it doesn’t undermine you in some way. If you’re required to check in with them first thing in the morning, you might be able to escape shortly thereafter. Making new contacts is a great way to escape an interaction that’s not going well… you can always wave at the nice lady you met yesterday and excuse yourself to go say good morning. Better yet, if possible, you can have a list of people you’re trying to connect with, so that you always have the excuse of “I just glimpsed Lisa so-and-so, and I need to talk with her”. Things like that. (Make sure you take plenty of business cards!)
As for their behavior? You’re above this sort of childishness, right? I’d just act like an adult and mentally chant, “bless her heart, bless her heart, bless her heart.” If someone does something directly rude, you can excuse yourself to the restroom, or for “some air.” Or, if pushed, call out the behavior calmly, and tell them that it’s unacceptable. But hopefully you won’t need to go that far…
anoni
I worked in an environment like this once. Hardest part was really letting go and accepting that it wasn’t me. It was really a ‘mean girls’ issue. I just worked hard to get out and I did. It was miserable and I hope I never cross paths with any of those people again. Do the same and you will be happier.
Anon
Serious question, and I don’t mean to sound snarky, but when stuff like this happens, how do you know it’s not something you’re doing that alienates people? Not that this would excuse mean girl behavior or change the situation much for the OP, but sometimes people do avoid others because they’re unbearable, and said person probably wouldn’t be the wiser.
Anon
Because others in and out of the office tolerate you just fine.
Having been the victim of cliquey co-worker behavior (and it’s not just limited to other women, there are “mean boys” as well), I think it’s inevitable in offices and there’s nothing you can do about it. People form their core group of friends at work and sometimes that’s really hard to break into. You can also get pegged as an outside for completely random reasons. It could be because you’re the newest person there – if so, eventually someone newer will come along and you will likely no longer be the outsider. Someone in the clique could be threatened by you and could be poisoning everyone else against you. You could have said something unintentionally offensive to someone who passed it on to the rest of the group.
In the long run, people who are rude or exclusive usually do it out of their own insecurities. My motto is just to rise above, be kind, and work hard. Try not to let your feelings get hurt and remember that you have a life outside of work.
anoni
^this
If it’s a problem across the board, than I agree, it’s probably time for some self-reflection. But when one has had no problems generally “fitting in” in other personal or professional settings, and perhaps more importantly within other groups apart from the insular “mean” group at the current setting, then it’s not the individual but the mean group.
IME, the mean group is small and lacks power but feels that it gains some by excluding one. There’s also the bonding over gossip about the one excluded. Anon is also correct that there is usually someone threatened by the excluded one (and that threat might be real or imagined). It’s a difficult situation and one where the recipient is largely alone to deal with it.
Hope
I’d like to make a major career change and I’m exploring a career as a patent attorney. My background isn’t technical (education or professional experience), what would I need to do to make this possible? Should I consider a second bachelor’s or a master’s to meet the technical requirement? Would I even have a shot at a master’s program without having a technical undergrad? Is it a problem that my professional experience is in a non tech field? Thanks everyone!
Anonymous
Why? What makes you, a non- lawyer with no technical background , want to do this? I think the answer changes the advice.
Scully
Whether you want to prosecute or litigate also changes the advice.
DU
All are problems. A graduate degree in technical field will not allow you to just satisfy the patent bar technical issue, you’d have to show the course work options. No work in the technical field is also a problem. Getting into grad school for a free ride after law school and a non-technical field for free is also a problem.
Look elsewhere.
Also, Google exists to find these answers.
Anon
Again, why are you so angry? Please learn to read – there is nothing in the original post about getting free education or going to graduate school after law school. You seem very angry and clearly have some other issues going on.
Anon
You must have either a qualifying bachelor’s degree or the requisite number of hours in a qualifying subject. Then you can take the patent bar. Depending on if you are already an attorney, you would then be qualified as a patent agent or a patent attorney. (The exam is the same.) Now, as for experience in a non-tech field, that may make it harder to get work.
Legally Brunette
I work with a lot of patent attorneys (who do patent prosecution, which I assume is what you’re thinking of doing). Most/all have a graduate science degree. And THEN they went to law school. So you’re potentially looking at 5 years of schooling. It’s a long, long road ahead so make sure that you truly research that you want to do this.
Toffee
Seriously? Well… It took me five years go get a bachelor, three years working, three years in law school, a year long federal clerkship, and two years as a lawyer to finally get to be a patent attorney. Maybe you can cut down on some work experience, but you’re talking an investment of many years and lots of money. Why do you want to do this?
Toffee
Also, I have the most in demand background with good grades from a top twenty law school. Getting a job at a good law firm still wasn’t easy.
Anon
What is “the most in demand background” these days? Not snark – pure curiosity.
Toffee
Computer/electrical/software. Lots going on there. And I suspect there will only be more after the Supreme Court’s decision in Alice.
Fiona
Engineering disciplines – electrical and chemical along the straight chemistry.
-(former) Patent Attorney
RR
You can look on the USPTO website I think for the requirements to take the patent bar. You’d need either a hard science/engineering type degree or a significant number of credit hours in hard science/engineering. So you’d have to do at least 2-3 years more school before you could even start law school. The most competitive backgrounds for patent attorneys right now seem to be mechanical and electrical engineering. So, ideally, you’d have a mechanical or electrical engineering degree, which is at probably an entire 4+ years. Then law school. Then pass the bar and the patent bar. The fact that your professional experience thus far isn’t technical is irrelevant.
You can be a patent litigator without being a patent attorney, if that holds any interest. But I’d be seriously asking yourself why this seems interesting. I’m a patent litigator, and it’s not for the faint of heart.
Hope
I was under the impression that if you didn’t have a qualifying bachelor’s degree but you had a qualifying master’s (that met the credit hour requirement) you would be eligible to sit for the patent bar. Is this incorrect? My concern is lack of technical experience in a professional capacity as there’s not a lot I can do about that at this point.
I don’t have a problem with 5 years of education to make this change. My current situation doesn’t allow me to work for 3 years so it’s an ideal time to make a switch.
DU
That is incorrect. If you do not have a qualifying bachelor’s you must do the credit hours. . . regardless of you getting a masters or phd. It’s on the PTO website. Obviously you are not that serious, as you cannot even bother to read the recommendations. Also, you read a lot as a patent attorney. AS you cannot bother to read the PTO website, I think you should look elsewhere.
Anon
Do you feel better now?
Toffee
You can, but just because you’re patent barred, it doesn’t mean you’ll get work. Even with degrees, she needs experience to get work. I had the goal of being a patent attorney as a senior in high school. Most colleagues planned on being scientists or engineers and then later decided to invest three years in law school.
snowy
But it sounds like you already are an attorney? I would think that is the hardest part (going to law school).
As another poster mentioned, going to grad school in a field you don’t have an undergrad degree in is not impossible- you just have to have had the pre-req classes (I’ve looked into this, as I have an undergrad degree in one kind of engineering, but now work in another and have looked into getting a masters). If you took no technical classes at all in undergrad, you’d have to take at least 3 semesters probably of classes to meet the pre-req (so, not a full degree of course, but significant time). If you took standard physics, biology, chemistry, calculus, etc but not a full degree you might be looking at less time.
It does seem weird to want to go into patent law from a non-technical field. Even if you’d worked in, say, product design, that sort of thing might be easier to swing because then you could look at some joint MS degrees that you could get into based off of work experience (in industrial design or mech E) without all the undergrad courses. But your point that you have no technical work experience makes me doubt this possibility.
anonymama
The minimum standards and course requirements for the master’s degree program are:
Prerequisite. B.S. degree in engineering or a related field.
So you can’t really just skip the bachelor’s degree and go straight to the master’s.
New to Washington D.C., help!
Hi all! I’ve done a search through previous threads relating to finding a place to live in Washington D.C., but couldn’t find something totally on point! Really hopeful someone has some thoughts they wouldn’t mind sharing…
I’m moving from Texas (eek, cost of living sticker shock!) to D.C. this August, and as I don’t really know people there I’d love to live in a reasonably good social area. I’m 30, single, work for the fed govt, and am possibly having to find a place remotely if I can’t make it up to D.C. before my new job starts. Any thoughts on:
– What are good areas that aren’t too remote/isolated when someone is wanting to be close to a bar/restaurant scene and also the Metro? I don’t mind being in more up and coming places either!
– Is a budget of $1,700/mo totally laughable for the areas I’m thinking about?
– With that budget, would I be better off trying to get a roommate in terms of more apartment options?
Thank you SOOO much for any advice!! Please feel free to e-mail me at wistful(dot)wry(at)gmail(dot)com if that’s easier!
TBK
I haven’t lived in the District for several years so my information might be a little out of date (H St was not even a thing when I lived there). I lived in Capitol Hill and in upper North West along Connecticut and liked both areas. Capitol Hill has lots of old townhouses divided up into apartments. Mine was one whole floor of an old house with beautiful woodwork and stained glass. Gorgeous! I was also a quick walk to Eastern Market (farmer’s market/flea market/artisanal butchers etc. every weekend) and the Metro. Capitol Hill can feel slightly remote, but is also sort of its own world/neighborhood in a fun way. As for Connecticut and areas along the Red Line, Dupont Circle is packed with bars, shops, restaurants, etc. but is also very expensive and has zero parking (if you have a car, which, coming from Texas, I’m guessing you have). I found that for each stop further up the Red Line I went, I could get another 100 sq ft for about $100 less per month. I’m not sure what $1700 would buy you these days. Five years ago, I paid $1800 a month for a 750 sq ft one bedroom near Van Ness Metro. It was definitely spacious but a little far out. Not sure what you could get today, or whether you’d be interested in getting a studio apartment as a way to live alone. Also consider whether you’d be okay with an English Basement apartment. It could expand your options in some older neighborhoods and some of them can be nice.
Anon
Hey you! How are you/the babies?
TBK
Hey, good! Babies will be three months soon — I can’t believe it! They smile all the time (except when they’re screaming) and we might really be down to one feeding a night. Their personalities are also starting to emerge. One is my little snuggle bug who loves to be held all the time and is happiest burrowing into my shoulder (or daddy’s shoulder). The other is a crazy little monkey who seriously smiles non-stop when he’s in a good mood and loves to be held where he can see things, or can bounce on his feet, but also gets frustrated and screamy very easily.
Lady Tetra
You can get a studio at that price in a lot of fun/trendy areas, but for a 1br you’ll have to sacrifice either fun, safety, or convenience. Like TBK, my first apartment in DC was $1750 1br in the Tenley/Van Ness area. It was nice and safe, but too quiet, and the red line is very slow on the weekends so it was hard to get around.
You might also look at Arlington or Silver Spring, apartments there can be cheaper and there are a lot of fun bars/restaurants there too. Good luck!
locomotive
I’m returning to DC next year post grad school and would look in Mt. Pleasant, Shaw, or U St for that price range/type of living. Avoid Adams Morgan (so …fratty… so… young…) and Dupont (really nice, but very expensive. you’d definitely need a roommate).
roses
You can’t live on U St. for $1700 anymore without a roommate unless you live in a very small studio, or a basement apt. in some of the residential streets more towards Columbia Heights. Mt. Pleasant is nice but not close to a metro.
Anonymous
I live in DC and agree that you could probably get a studio in most areas for that amount, but will definitely need a roommate if you want a separate bedroom. With that being said, the best areas for someone young (I’m 27 myself) looking for a night life etc. would probably be Dupont Circle (most expensive option), U Street (may be too young a crowd, but definitely vibrant), H Street (new trendy neighborhood but no metro), or Columbia Heights (also new trendy neighborhood). Alternately, the Clarendon neighborhood in Virginia is an option. Its definitely got a night life and would probably be the cheapest option, but most people I know that live in VA rarely make it into the city on weekends, etc., so if you’re looking for the city experience, I’d suggest one of the neighborhood above. And though you didn’t ask, in terms of apartment searches – almost everyone advertises on Craigs list (including realtors and apartment complexes) so I’d look there.
Gail the Goldfish
I lived in Columbia Heights and really enjoyed it. That was about 4 or 5 years ago, and it was still a little sketchy around the edges at the time, but it was definitely on the way up and I assume has only gotten better. At that time, there weren’t a whole lot of apartment buildings in the area; it was mainly townhouses people split with roommates, but they had started building several buildings when I left, so I assume there is now a lot around there.I have no idea what the prices are like these days. If you aren’t set on being in the District, you might also look at places like Arlington on a metro line. My brother lives near the Crystal City stop and seems to really like it. I, however, lived at a place in Arlington not walking distance to the metro. Don’t do that (it was super cheap, though, and as long as the buses cooperated, it wasn’t horrible…).
Baconpancakes
Yep, it’s way nicer in Columbia Heights now, particularly near the metro. However, prices have definitely gone up. $1700 is doable, but on the lower end for a 1bed.
CDA
To chime in, possibly a little late – I’m basically future you (although I am leaving DC soon), and you can live anywhere in the city (including Dupont, etc) on that budget in a studio. One bedroom would require compromise.
PolyD
I have never lived in DC proper, but have many friends who do. The advice about neighborhoods is good, but along with Metro, also consider bus lines. I have a friend who lives in the Glover Park area and she really likes it. Despite there being no metro, I guess the bus service is pretty decent there.
I really can’t give firsthand advice about the buses, but I thought I should mention it. I know buses can get stuck in traffic, but it seems the Red Line has had issues of its own recently.
Baconpancakes
I started writing an email, but figured this will allow faster replies, and I can leave some of my answers as replies to other people’s comments. I live in DC, and pay about $1800 for a 2 bedroom in a not-optimal but ok apartment in a sketchy neighborhood that’s very convenient to pretty much everything, has 2 metros within a 15 minute walk, and three convenient bus lines within five blocks.
So it’s doable, yes. But there are compromises. I feel perfectly safe in my neighborhood, but packages on my doorstep and unlocked cars aren’t safe in front of my house. I live in Shaw, btw.
If you want to live in a lively neighborhood and a newer building with amenities, but actually being in the city isn’t important, Arlington (Courthouse/Clarendon/Ballston area) is a good place, with good food and a very homogeneous population. If you want to live in a neighborhood with the best ramen in the city and a bar that serves a frozen peach whiskey concoction called The Awesomeness and can either take the X2 or stay in the 1st – 6th St NE range, H Street is fun, if still “emerging.” If you don’t mind small, roommates, and/or can bump up your price a bit, and want fast access to downtown and a 10-15 minute walk to some of the best bars and restaurants in the city, look at Logan Circle. Looking for an elegant converted townhouse and access to a great mussel bar, or working on the hill -look at Capitol Hill and Eastern Market. If you want great pupusas, access to the city’s only Target, and roommates, there’s lots of places in Columbia Heights for way less than $1700. Shaw/Bloomingdale is still cheap, but with the aforementioned caveats. Silver Spring has some very affordable, nice apartment complexes, but there’s a small downtown area surrounded by a lot of very residential neighborhoods, and it’s a very long metro ride to downtown.
I honestly wouldn’t look further west than those neighborhoods, unless you’re very concerned with safety and having a permanent parking place, and willing to look at a lot of roommates. Most of Cleveland Park, Dupont, Georgetown, Tenleytown, etc, is either students or single-family houses. If you have any specific questions, let me know. Also, check out Prince of Petworth’s blog for general neighborhood flavor.
Lady Tetra
Wait, where is this frozen peach whiskey thing? Sounds appropriately named.
Baconpancakes
Little Miss Whiskey’s. It used to be a lesbian goth dance club, but now it’s just a quirky, slightly gothic, all-cash bar with a crazy patio (tables made out of bathtubs, a huge fountain, sometimes they have hot dogs grilling out back). House music upstairs on weekends.
New to Washington D.C., help!
Thank you all so, so much for the thorough and helpful replies! Definitely will be using these as a starting frame of reference and go from there!
L in DC
I currently live in the GW University neighborhood and pay $1900 for a one bedroom apartment that I found on Craigslist (renting from an owner). I’ve also lived in the Dupont/14th St/U Street area, which was loads of fun and which I would absolutely recommend. You can easily find a studio for $1700 and you will be able to walk everywhere, probably including to work. I would go with a studio for your first year in DC and you can always move after your first year. You’ll ideally be spending most of your time meeting new people, exploring the city, etc. Especially for your first year, I think location is much more important than how nice your place is. Also, you didn’t mention whether or not you’re planning on having a car but you definitely don’t need one if you live in the city (you’ll be able to walk everywhere and the Capitol Bikeshare bikes are easy to use), and it can actually be quite expensive to pay for parking, etc. Good luck and welcome!
Jenny
I’d say Columbia Heights, Petworth, or the whole area around Howard is where you would get the most value for your money and also great proximity to interesting nightlife.
Have fun!
Bonnie
You’ve received great advice. I’m chiming in to add the 14th St corridor (Columbia Heights and down) to your list. It has lots of new fun restaurants, bars and shops.
Anonforthis
A lawsuit I have been in for over three years finally settled, and everything should finish up this week. I would like to send flowers or something similar to the attorney that handled the case, as she was wonderful to work with, and was very sensitive in dealing with my family (it was a wrongful death case). Is this frowned on in law offices? I don’t want to do anything that would make for an awkward situation in her office. She really was great to work with, and I just want to do something to say thank you.
anon
she would probably appreciate it. I am a family law attorney and a client has sent me flowers before. It made my month. also a heartfelt thank you note means a lot and goes a long way.
AIMS
I think flowers are fine but maybe a plant or, better yet, a basket of fruit or some other edible would be even more appreciated. That way she can put it out for others to share and you’d be thanking both her support staff and communicating her awesomeness to her boss & co-workers (which I’m sure she would appreciate, too).
abogada
Candy or pastries are what I most appreciate receiving from clients, because I can share with others in the office who also contributed to the case (plus, I like to eat chocolate more than I like to look at flowers). But any gesture is appreciated (and none is needed).
Blonde Lawyer
I have received chocolates and edible arrangements from clients. The bonus is when you leave them out to share, word spreads quickly that your client was so happy they sent a gift. It is easier than saying “hey boss, did you see this gift I got?” I still have the card from the first client gift I received. They are not expected but very much appreciated.
Dulcinea
+1, I was giong to say something exactly like this. We have a bulletin board where everyone posts the cards they receive. Sadly so far my clients, even the ones who are effusive with thnks on the phone, have not sent me any cards. It’s definitely not expected; I am paid to do my job after all. It just would be a subtle way to brag to the boss.
jjjeanette
I think it sounds lovely and, in my experience as a plaintiff’s attorney, is fairly common. Something to share is nice too.
AnonLawMom
I will second the “something to share” advice. Your case likely involved a lot of behind the scenes effort by support staff or junior attorneys, so a group gift will be appreciated and appropriate.
Chicago!
I’m heading out to Chicago for an interview next Friday and staying for the weekend. I’m going to stay with a friend for the weekend but in a hotel Thursday night (to be well-rested before the interview and not impose on my friend during the week). What neighborhood should I stay in? Any particular hotel recommendations? My interview is near Grant Park, although it’s not until the afternoon so proximity is less important. Also, I haven’t been to Chicago since I was 10 and really want to explore the city (since I may be moving there!). Does anyone have any recommendations for where to go/what to see/where to eat/etc.? Thanks in advance :)
Moonstone
Think about River North area for the hotel. You’ll be close enough to the interview but in an area with tons to do and and eat. I don’t have time to post more now, but will try later.
AEK
I’m a fan of Kimpton hotels, and all 4 Chicago ones are either downtown or in River North, so reasonably close to lots of parks, museums, shopping, etc., as well as your interview. The Burnham is probably closest to your interview; the Monaco is right on the river, and the Palomar has the best bar (Sable). Allegro is the middle of the Loop, so probably less interesting although easily accessible.
I’m a sucker for the Art Institute, which I know is a pretty obvious recommendation for passing some time, but with good reason. Depending on the weather and your time / interest, the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s river cruise (better than Wendela and the others IMO) is a great way to get an overview.
Pink
My friends and I enjoyed the architecture tour this past weekend and the food and drinks at Sable Bar which is in the Palomar hotel.
jc
I have to agree that River North is definitely the area stay in (and where most hotels are located). I also highly recommend the architecture tour.
You could also check out the Field Museum or the Shedd if you have the time. I also think that the Blues Fest is this weekend in Grant Park – it’s a really good time and the weather is supposed to be nice!
Jeurbxksidbe
What are your tips for transitioning from college to a full time job or internship? The hours seem so long and uninterrupted! Of course I have a lot of work and studying in college, but the way/schedule I do it is completely different. I am not the greaser at concentrating
Jeurbxksidbe
Greatest*
Orangerie
Take a lunch break if you can (meaning get away from your desk, even if that just means a quick 15 minute walk). Eat healthy… sitting at a desk for 9 hours a day is murder on your metabolism. Develop a workout routine and try to stick to it even when you’re tired after work – you’ll feel better in the long run. Make fun plans for the weekend and enjoy not having to study or write a paper in your free time.
Anon
I would +1 getting out of your office. We have an unofficial rule at my office that we don’t take lunch (fun, right?) and the few times I do go to lunch with friends the day goes so much faster
IP question
Hi everyone, looknig for opinions on a friend’s situation. My friend is a fine craftsman and works on restoring fine art pieces, which are all one-of-a-kind. He has accidentally damaged one of these pieces in a way that is reparable but still greatly diminshes the value. He has offered to buy it from the client for the full price which is very steep for him (but not quite steep enough to make it worthwhile to make an insurance claim). He has a friend that is interested in the piece despite the damage and is willing to buy it from him for a fraction of the price, helping him somewhat mitigate the loss. However, both the artist and the client are unhappy with this solution. Instead, they want my friend to reimburse the client for the full cost of the piece AND return it to the artist so the artist can destroy it.
Questions:
(1) I don’t think there is any legal basis on which they can demand this, looking for IP folks to weigh in if I am wrong.
(2) For the sake of good customer relations, should he do this anyway and take a big financial hit?
Anon
I think the artists request is ridiculous but the fact that s/he would even suggest something like this makes me think twice about getting on their bad side. But in the interest of good customer service and growing the business, accept the arrangement with the artist. Consider it an expensive life lesson and move on. It will be more expensive to have a tarnished reputation.
IP question
Thanks, I am leaning that way now myself after my initial reaction of “H3ll no, WTF?!”
Also I think it’s just sad that the artist would deny someone who really loves his work (but could never afford it at normal price) the chance to have a piece she would cherish.
AnonLawMom
In the future, your friend should have all clients sign a contract that deals with these types of situations and possible caps his liability. He should hire an attorney to draw up a template for him.
Alanna of Trebond
I think if there was any moral rights of the artist in the piece, the artist could request it to be destroyed. But the United States doesn’t have moral rights.
VARA
I would suggest reviewing the Federal Visual Artists Rights Act for guidance.
B
I’ve recently realized that a lot of my current job stress is related to a couple of really dysfunctional coworkers. One is on a team that I lead, but he vastly outranks me and is also the VP’s favorite. He’s so difficult towards other team members that I am constantly playing mediator instead of leading the team. The other guy leads a team I’m on, but we’re about equal. He asks the team for input, goes and does what he wants on his own, and then presents final (and inferior) results as a team product. I’ve confronted him directly, and each time thought that we had made progress, but over time I’ve realized he is just oily.
Other than these two guys, I love my job – problems and all. I can and do handle interpersonal conflict on a daily basis. But these two are eating my lunch. When I can, I ignore them, but most of the time I find myself going to my boss, theirs, or both to resolve conflict, and I worry about how that reflects on me.
Any thoughts? either general advice or resources to read/learn more would be appreciated.
AnonLawMom
I’ve been in similar situations and this is never easy. The only thing that has worked for me was transitioning my work to reduce my exposure to this type of person. Any effort to change behavior or make supervisors aware of it always backfired. I’d love to read advice from others on this situation.
B
That’s my experience with dealing with highly dysfunctional (often personality disordered) people in my personal life, for sure. You can’t change them, and you’ll drive yourself crazy trying to ‘fix’ yourself so you can work with them.
Thank goodness, these teams are both just assignments and not my whole workday, but still looking for some survival tips. Even if ‘surviving’ just means taking care of my stress levels.
NWanalyst
Do you have anyone in the company that you know thinks well of you, and that you feel you can trust? I’d perhaps try and have lunch with someone like that, and/or just catch them in their office and ask if you can set up a meeting to discuss this. They might have some good insights or advice for you. If you approach the issue rationally, as you seem to be doing, you can frame it as not “I’m stressed about this” but “what can I do to mitigate these patterns?” and “Can you help me discover whether I’m overreacting?” As your coworker/mentor/sponsor will know, there will always be difficult people that we can’t do anything about, and I think it sends a good message if you come across as trying to learn skills that will help you get along. You might find that your colleague has some good information for you about why this could be happening, or that they at least are aware of the issue and can tell you whether your responses reflect badly on you. (And if you can have a very diplomatic version of this conversation with the boss you mention going to, that might get you some insight as well.)
In summary, I’d try to get some outside feedback on how much you’re really losing because of these punks. If you find that you’re being made to *actually* look foolish, or that no one feels empowered to push back, then I’d be questioning how “lovable” your job really is, and exploring other options. If you find that these guys are being obvious bullies, everyone’s getting tired of it, and they all think you’re a saint for putting up with it… then it might be worth sticking it out.
Escalate everything
A little late but I’m looking for coworker advice.
I have a coworker at my same level and we both report into the same boss. I manage a team and he doesn’t. I’m new to the company and he’s been here for a few years, but recently after I joined he (lets call him Adam) has gotten promoted to the same level.
There are a couple of recurring themes in our interactions. (1) He is constantly giving me suggestions about things relating to my team and/or team’s work. These are often in emails so it would seem like he is thinking about things that are not very relevant to him. E.g. recently sent a suggestion that I should hold off hiring a replacement for x team member who left, until y event happens. I don’t think there’s any reason to hold off, so I’m not. (I didn’t reply). Sometimes I’ve replied making my case for what I’m doing or why I won’t do what he’s suggesting. He isn’t my boss and it affects him in no way whatsoever, so why should I?
(2) Adam frequently copies our super-busy, very senior boss on his relatively mundane emails. It may be a way of either making himself look good, or making me look bad. E.g. recently sent an email saying, “About this new project requiring work from both our areas. You need to have alerted me to it earlier since I need a lot of setup time to do my part of the work.” and copied my superior. However, the catch is that I myself wasn’t aware of this project so it was news to me. If I’d known, I surely would have included him. I replied all saying that – and yet again copying my supervisor on an unnecessary bit of correspondence.
But I really think the issue could have been resolved by Adam coming over to my office and just asking (just two doors down the corridor).
Is there a good way for me to tell him on (2) not to copy our busy supervisor on silly things?
leaving for competitor
Has anyone ever left a firm to go work for a competitor? I’m fairly young so this would be my first job switch. I’m excited about the new opportunity, pay, etc but I’m also afraid of burning bridges. I know that companies aren’t looking out for the employees so we must do what’s best for ourselves but is it normal to feel somewhat guilty?
Also, how do I tell my boss? At my firm, if we are going to a competitor, we have to leave the same day.
nora
Love your blog! Do you have a Bib + Tuck account? Would love to be able to shop your closet on their site! You can also now make money on their site! Your style is on point for the working woman.