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Updated: Oct 31, 2018 78 Comments · by

Coffee Break: Bethe Rope Necklace

Coffee Break |

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noonday Longtime reader/ mid-level associate R wrote in to recommend this necklace a few weeks ago:
The necklace was a Christmas present this year, and promises to become my new favorite opera-length accent piece. (Today I'm wearing it with a cream silk blouse and gold studs.) According to the website, the entire collection is made by artisans in the developing world, and the organization is committed to providing fair wages and safe working environments. Some of the pieces have a more casual/ bohemian feel, but a fair number are entirely work-appropriate for my (business casual) office.
Nice! I always love the versatility of an opera-length necklace, and I like the simplicity of this one. (I'm particularly a fan of the look at top right, layered with a long pendant necklace). The necklace is $40. Bethe Rope Necklace (L-0)

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Comments

  1. Ellen

    Yay! Coffee Break! I love Coffee Break, and am the onley one here, b/c the manageing partner decided to stay out in the Hamton’s all weekend with the baby and Margie. It must be cold out there this time of year, tho. FOOEY! If I want to be cold, I do NOT have to go to the Hamton’s. The manageing partner is planning to have Spring Fling at his place, so I guess he need’s to get the place ready now? Im glad I do NOT have to clean up his place with Margie, tho he hire’s some local illegal’s to do the real dirty-work.

    I saw the Gramy’s last night, and wondered what the big deal is with Kanye West. That guy needs to chill out, am I wrong? At least Madonna’s tuchus is still in good shape and she must be almost 60 year’s old by now, or at least in her 50’s. I told mom about Madonna’s tuchus and she agreed that I should strive to have a tuchus like hers by the time I am her age, but she probably work’s out every day and does NOT have to bill 7300 hour’s a year sitting on her tuchus the way I do. DOUBEL FOOEY!

    My dad met a guy at his club who has a son in Brooklyn who is 30 year’s old and want’s to be a father. That’s good, but he Sound’s like another David, but I told dad I would meet him, so I texted him. He evidentley live’s in Brooklyn Hieght’s and love’s to come into Manahattan to eat. He is comeing to my office tonight and we will WALK uptown so that I can get my step’s in. He seem’s VERY anxius to meet me. I supose that is a GOOD sign. I will let the hive what hapens tomorrow. I hope he work’s out b/c I REALY need to get married and have children NOW! I do NOT want to have a nice tuchus 20 year’s from now, but NOT have children. Even Madonna has had babie’s! YAY!!!!

  3. Blue Moon

    For those of you who have to pay for significant work travel costs up front and then get reimbursed, what systems do you use to manage your money and your budget? I have never had a problem with tracking receipts and being timely in submitting reports, but I find it difficult to have a true picture of my finances when I have several thousand dollars of to-be-reimbursed expenses sitting on my credit card and reimbursements from several weeks ago coming into my checking account. I love racking up all the points – so I don’t mind the personal up-front charges – but I’m wondering if there’s a better way. FWIW, I currently use Mint for financial management.

    • '94

      I think this only partially addresses the concerns you raised, but one thing I did when I was in that situation was categorize every reimbursable expense with the generic label “Work Reimbursable”–so, not “Hotel” or whatever the expense actually was. This way, my actual Hotel expenses for personal travel (and general spending totals) weren’t skewed high by those expenses that were not truly mine. Then, when I got the reimbursement check, I also coded it as “Work Reimbursable.” This way, all expenses should net out to a $0 balance in that category–if it didn’t, I knew I had some receipts to follow up on. I found Mint’s “reimbursable” tag pretty useless, so the above is what I did instead.

      I generally pay my cc balance in full exactly on the due date, but with reimbursements I would direct the check at the applicable card as soon as the deposit cleared. So, there was still time where my cc balance looked artificially high while the reimbursement was being processed, but doing this at least shortened that period.

      A few other things you could try:
      -Add an “other” account and use this to record your outstanding expense reports as an asset (since it’s a receivable). It’s not as great as being able to see the cc balance directly reduced by the amounts you won’t actually owe, but it will at least result in your overall debt and net worth picture being accurate.
      -Get a separate card that you use solely for business expenses. That way, you know when you look at that balance, that you will get reimbursed for all of it, and you don’t have that balance mixed in with your personal expenses that you will actually pay out of pocket on. And you can still use the above tip to get your overall debt/net worth picture back in line.

    • Zelda

      I have a category called “for reimbursement” on mint. When I pay a work expense I debit it against this category and then credit the reimbursements when I receive the money. It has a zero balance when I am fully reimbursed.

      If you want to physically separate the amounts, you could open a separate credit card and checking account just for reimbursements.

    • k-padi

      I had a similar situation at one time, not exactly work-related but personal business. I had a separate checking account and credit card that I only used for those expenses. It also made reporting my expenses easy because I could just hand off my credit card statement to accounting for things like foreign transaction fees.

      I found a credit union with free checking (and debit card) and got a credit union credit card. It was ridiculously easier than going through statements that had both business and personal expenses.

    • Anon

      I use my credit card with $15K limit. I made sure that I don’t use it for personal expenses (like sight seeing etc) though it was not necessary to do so. When I had to stay 8 weeks abroad, I used to submit by expense report every two weeks, get reimbursed and pay off the credit card.

      • Kate

        Making sure to use one card for reimbursables and not for personal purchases is a great idea that I need to remember. One of my funding sources requires that you show a credit card slip or bank statement AND a receipt.

    • Anonymous

      When I was a consultant, I had 2 checking accounts and had all expenses direct deposited into the 2nd account (while my paycheck went into the first account). I also put all expenses on the corporate amex. That was by far the easiest approach.

    • KinCA

      I just keep a running email for each trip in my Drafts folder, detailing what I’ve paid for upfront, so I know what money needs to go back to my checking or savings account when I’m reimbursed. I also try to keep all of my work expenses on one card to make tracking expenses and payment a little easier. I then delete the draft once each trip has been fully reimbursed.

    • Meara

      I have a separate account/debit card that I use for work-reimbursable expenses. I still have it in mint, but exclude all transactions in that account from my budgeting stuff. So I can see if there’s enough money and look at the transactions to make sure there’s no fraud or whatever, but mint also doesn’t think I’m blowing my restaurant budget by eating meals work will pay for.

    • Gail the Goldfish

      I keep my budget in an excel spreadsheet, so I just keep work expenses in a separate category and make sure the reimbursement column matches the expenses column.

      On that note, does anyone have suggestions for a credit card that gives good cash back rewards for hotels and rental car purchases? Right now all I have is 1% cash back on all purchases. (Flights, sadly, go through the corporate account, so I get the miles but not the credit card points).

    • LilyS

      I use Goodbudget, so it may work differently in Mint.

      What I do is things go, instead of into the ‘travel’, ‘food’, etc categories, into an ‘expenses’ category. This has a budget of 0 assigned to it, so I can always see what I’m owed. (Of course for that to work you need a high enough buffer in your account)

  4. AMB

    That website has lots of cute things – I would love to buy more ethical pieces but it’s true its difficult to find pieces that are office appropriate. Bookmarking!

  5. Baconpancakes

    Shopping TJ:

    Anyone have a favorite brand of ballet flat that comes in a non-magenta pink? I’m looking at something for casual Fridays and weekends, although if I had an extra $500, I certainly wouldn’t say no to that pair of Salvatore Ferragamo work-appropriate Varina flats.

  6. Anonymous

    Hive, my partner relocated to a small town about 2 hours from the large city where we had been living. The plan is for me to join him once I find a job in small town. As part of my job search, I sent resumes to every law firm in the area, and to my surprise, one responded! The partner said that he does not know if the office is able to hire associates at this time (because the budget is run out of the home office in another state), but he is more than happy to meet with me to discuss my background and the legal market in the area.

    For this meeting, what should I wear?? Should I wear a formal suit as if this were a “real” interview, or something a bit more casual, like a sheath dress + jacket? I was thinking maybe a nice pants suit with a fun but not too crazy top? Advice is welcome!

    • Awa

      I’m not a lawyer but I would treat this as the interview before the interview. First impressions last, get it right the first time. I would wear the pants suit with a nice top, elegant but understated. Some people may not agree on the sheath dress, if you choose that route, pick a blazer that coordinates well with it.

    • Anonymous

      Suit. There’s no reason not to. Do not wear a “fun” top. Look as professional as you possibly can.

  7. Mo money

    I was just called unexpectedly by an HR recruiter for a job that is so promising. Yay! But she caught by off guard by asking how much I’m making. I said “I make X but am looking for around Y,” and explained why I’m worth that. She didn’t seem to blink.

    After a little research, I realize that this is not a lateral move but would be a promotion to a new, bigger title. The average for this job is a lot more than the aspirational figure I gave (30k more!). Am I stuck with the lower number? If I get an offer, have I lost all of my negotiating power?

    • Hildegarde

      Definitely not stuck! Just explain that after more research about the job you would be looking to move for a salary more in line with $X. I’d still be prepared to explain to the company why (because of responsibilities Y and Z), but no way is your throwing out a salary number, on the spot, before you’ve done any research on the job or even interviewed (where presumably you would learn more about job responsibilities), a commitment to accept that salary.

    • Zelda

      I would call her back right away and state that you are actually looking for X amount based on your market research for the position, responsibilities, etc. It’s definitely not ideal, but it’s much better than waiting until the end of the process. In the future, you should a. give a range instead of a specific number; b. try to avoid giving your current salary (ask a manager has great advice on this); and/or c. state that you make x but are looking for a market rate for the position and that you’ll get back to her with a specific number.

      Waiting until you’ve received the offer to ask for more after you’ve already given a specific number generally makes candidates look like they were negotiating in bad faith. It’s essentially a form of bait and switch. Would you want to work for a company that advertises a job at a specific salary and then lists a lower amount in the actual job offer?

  8. Gibbler

    Completely frivolous TJ, but hopefully someone can help. I saw a gorgeous pair of high heeled pumps on an ad on here. I thought they were Jimmy Choo at Neiman Marcus, but now I can’t find them. They were $625, closed toe pumps. They were a kind of swirled black/grayish silver/white swirl (think of dropping food coloring into milk and how it would swirl), patent leather. Sound familiar to anyone. I’ve checked both NM and JC website (among others) and can’t find them anywhere. I think I’m going crazy.

  9. Anonymous

    If I submit my resume to legal recruiters and no one contacts me- do you think the problem is my experience or my resume? I paid a lot of money to get some resume help, I have pretty good experience (3+ years at a fed agency) and I just can. not. get an interview in the Boston area (currently in VA/DC area). I am willing to look at almost any type of attorney job (state, federal, non profit, firm). Can anyone give me advice on job searching? I look for positions through my law school, a friends law school, indeed, craigslist. Are there other places I should be looking? thank you!

    • Wanderlust

      Can you target some firms in Boston that have practice groups with your specific area of expertise and just blindly send your resume in? Some firms don’t like to use recruiters because of their high fees.

      • Hollis

        Agree with this advice completely. Recruiters are usually brought in to bring a specific type of background the firm thinks it needs, but it cannot seem to find without having to pay a recruiter to hunt for that background (usually because someone with the desired background and experience is already doing that work at a competitor). In your case, reaching out directly to alums (college and law), friends of friends, etc. will increase your chances. Try sending a letter directly to partners at those places who went to the same school or are members of the same organizations and express your interest. There are plenty of openings that are never poster publicly because someone refers someone they know who is great for the position. Also, can you try and transfer to the Boston office of your agency? I like all of the places you are looking, and would maybe add job search boards at any local bar associations (and join the bar associations, too), but I think craigslist is going to be a waste of time. Good luck!

        • Boston (OP)

          Thanks- this is helpful perspective! The Bar association is a great idea that I hadn’t thought of yet. Unfortunately my Boston network is very small right now, but I will start by trying to find some alums and expland my network.

    • Must be Tuesday

      Are you already admitted to the MA bar? Do you give a good reason for why you intend to relocate to Boston?

      • Boston (OP)

        Yes and yes (well I think its a good reason- its my home state. I mention in my cover letter that its my home state.) I don’t specifically mention that its to be closer to family because I thought that was too personal.

        And I don’t just send to recruiters- but I did submit it to a couple on a whim and the lack of response is a real downer. Like not only can I not get actual jobs to want to interview me, but not recruiters either. Its not like I aiming for biglaw either- my experience is in house with a federal agency so I try to look for similar state jobs but am getting zero bites.

        • CountC

          State agencies/government agencies do not usually use recruiters, as an FYI. Legal recruiters generally are trying to place people in big law or in very specialized areas. IMO working in both arenas, you are going to need to know someone to get even a whiff at an interview for a state/local gov’t job. They get tons of applicants and are on a hiring freeze, etc., most of the time.

          Definitely reach out to the Bar Association, alumni, friends of friends even if they aren’t lawyers, because they may know lawyers, etc.

    • rosie

      Are you admitted in MA? I sort of got the impression based on my own searches (for summer employment and post-grad) that the Boston market is hard to get into from out-of-town. I would really focus on networking and who you know. Does your agency have a Boston location? Can you get introductions there and apply to any openings there? Who do you know that can introduce you to someone in your field in Boston to give you the lay of the land, so to speak? If you went to school in Boston, reach out to alums for information interviews.

      • Boston (OP)

        Thanks. I guess that’s good news and bad news you know- good if its not just me, bad because I really, really, want to move this year. I’m sure plenty of people here are familiar with the feeling, its just hard feeling like I have so much to offer and not getting the chance to even talk to someone about what I might be able to offer ya know.

        • Wanderlust

          “its just hard feeling like I have so much to offer and not getting the chance to even talk to someone about what I might be able to offer ya know.”

          yes, this +1000. I’m 5 years out of law school and still waiting for this.

      • Lola

        I… have heard otherwise. Have you tried Ropes? I hear they are desperate for associates.

  10. anon

    Any recommendations for a long weekend getaway from DC in late March/early April? Would be going with my DH. I would love to go somewhere where I could see the ocean. I want to relax but have the option to do something other than just sit on the beach all day. Miami seems to be an easy option but I’ve never been so…thoughts? Others suggestions welcome!

    • Anonymous

      Puerto Rico – there are much better beaches in the Caribbean (Turks and Caicos and St. Lucia are some favorites) but if you want a combo of beach + non-beach activities I think PR is your best bet. I like Miami but I don’t think of it as a place with a whole lot to do except nightlife.

    • kc

      Charleston, SC? But I’d probably go to Puerto Rico and do hikes/bio bay/etc….Just because I’d want somewhere really warm.

  12. rosie

    I like this necklace a lot and have been looking for something this length. Opinions on wearing this necklace with silver jewelry?

  13. Contracts

    I bought that necklace in December, too, at a neighbor’s adoption fundraiser. It’s a great piece. I also bought the mint paper beads necklace, but I gave it for a Christmas present. I wish I would have purchased two.

  14. Lorelai Gilmore

    Any suggestions for a fun getaway with young children? I’m in CA and am looking for recommendations for a family-friendly, easy vacation with my 5 and 1 year old. An all-inclusive would be really great. A beach or a swimming pool would be great. No long flights (which may rule out Hawaii). Any ideas?

    • ace

      International OK and when? There are some nice all inclusives in the Riviera Maya region of Mexico that will be easy and convenient with kids, but I’d avoid during summer.

    • MJ

      I would look into San Diego. Hotel Coronado, Wild Animal Park/Zoo, fun museums…that’d be great. Sunset Magazine’s website will also have articles on child-friendly getaways.

  15. Lorelai Gilmore

    Shoot, I just realized that international doesn’t work because the baby doesn’t yet have a passport and I’m hoping to do this ASAP – unexpectedly had a week in March open up and am hoping to take advantage.

    • KinCA

      Maybe San Diego/Carlsbad-area? There’s the Wild Animal Park and Legoland (lots to keep kids busy!). Also, not sure what your budget is, but I have great memories of family vacations at La Costa Resort in Carlsbad when I was a kid. It’s not all-inclusive, but there’s lots of activities onsite and there used to be an awesome kids club.

    • RDC

      If you request (and pay for) expedited processing for the passports, you’d likely have them by the end of February. We just did this and got it back in two weeks. Also note that now you have to schedule an appointment ahead of time to apply for the passport rather than just walking in. Just thought I’d mention that it’s probably feasible if you really wanted to do an international trip.

    • anonsg

      I know you’re in CA – but if you are planning on traveling by land (e.g., maybe fly to Seattle, day or weekend trip up to Canada), baby doesn’t need a passport – just birth certificate (i think!). Not sure you’ll find a decent beach in Seattle in March though lolol

      Florida? Walt Disney World?? Socal – Disneyland?

      • cbackson

        Kids can enter Canada with only a birth certificate…but Seattle in March will be 42 degrees and raining. No swimming without wetsuits.

  16. Kate

    Thanks for this great recommendation! Does anyone have other fair trade / providing good quality jobs to impoverished people (whatever you want to call it) fashion resources to recommend?

    • KittyKat

      Gap pay their retail employees well above minimum wage which I think is really awesome. I’m sure you know Everlane is an ethical company, but its something I tend to forget. I love how they talk about their factories, fabrics, and wholesale costs, PLUS their stateside employees get paid fair wages, a miracle in this economy.

    • LawyerinChicago

      Fair Indigo is a Fair Trade clothing company. It’s mostly casual stuff, but I’ve been happy with my purchases.

  17. Anon

    Following up on yesterday’s cashmere thread… I browsed the Brora website and some of the sweaters look lovely, but I couldn’t spend that much without trying one on. Any stores in the LA area that carry the brand?

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