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Updated: Oct 31, 2018 218 Comments · by

Thursday’s TPS Report: Belt Detail Faux Wrap Skirt

The Personal Shopper (TPS) |

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Halogen Belt Detail Faux Wrap Skirt | CorporetteOur daily TPS reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices. What a fun take on a pencil skirt! I've seen this on a number of different skirts — the sort of aggressive cutout-as-slit — and this one is one of the best I've seen, in part because the high(ish) slit and the below-the-knee length are both kind of difficult to pull off on their own. The skirt also comes in a black-and-white version, but I'm loving the color combo shown here. It's $78 at Nordstrom. Halogen® Belt Detail Faux Wrap Skirt Here are a lower-priced option and plus-size alternative. Seen a great piece you'd like to recommend? Please e-mail tps@corporette.com. (L-4)

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Kat Griffin is the founder, publisher, and editor-in-chief of Corporette. You can read more about her here.

Comments

  1. Capsule jewelry wardrobe

    Let’s assume you’re starting from scratch with jewellery – what would be in your 6-8 item capsule collection? Pieces, metals, brands?

    A few parameters:
    – You wear a wedding / engagement band and a watch on your left hand
    – Bracelets tend to get taken off as you are at the computer all day

    • Veronica Mars

      I love jewelry and have a pretty good collection, here’s what I’d repurchase in a heartbeat if everything burned down in a house fire or something:
      – Amazon Duragold Crossover Hoop earrings (two tone white and yellow gold)– Hands down my favorite purchase. I hemmed and hawed over them for YEARS because of the price, but I kept going back to them and I finally pulled the trigger. These are the most beautiful earrings ever, super comfortable, and go with any outfit. LOVE THEM! They remind me of Cartier.
      – Moissanite studs. Cheaper than diamonds and they’re my default “leave in” studs for when life gets busy
      – Pearls. I got mine from Pearl Paradise (freshadama) and I love them. I’m not sure which piece I’d replace first (maybe my tin cup with a pendant, since it’s the most versatile)
      – Dressy watch. I have one from Michele that I got on Ebay. I’m not sure if I would repurchase this exact watch, but something that’s silver and nice looking. My last watch was Michael Kors and I wore it for 2 years straight.
      – Cross necklace. Not sure what I’d replace my current crosses with, but I’d definitely get one that spoke to me (it’s also one of my “leave in” pieces).
      I think those are my essentials. I have some really nice CZ earrings that I’d probably want to rebuy, but these are the nice pieces that are the core of my collection and that I wear most often.

      • Veronica Mars

        I should also say that I’m looking for, but haven’t found the perfect pair of hoops yet, so if anyone has any suggestions please let me know!

      • K

        I just looked up the crossover hoops. Are you talking about the huggies or the dangling hoops? Both are gorgeous.

        • Veronica Mars

          Oh, I didn’t realize they sold two versions. The ones that I have and love are the thicker, shorter hoops that come in a variety of color options (yellow-yellow, white-white, white-rose, yellow-white) . The product number is: B0000B35GL if that helps (it pops right up if you Google it).

      • Anon in MA

        What about class rings? Do people wear them? I don’t have one. When I meet up with friends from college (I’m now 10 years post-grad from an Ivy), people will wear the ring. But I don’t know if they wear it every day, or just for coffee with me. I like the idea, but I haven’t seen the point in pulling the trigger for a $1-2K class ring.

        • Veronica Mars

          I don’t have one because I thought all the ones my alma matter offered were ugly. I have one from high school that I don’t wear but should because it’s a classy signet ring and very low key (I don’t think at first glance it looks anything like a class ring). I’m currently looking at vintage rings from my alma matter that are less hideous, but it would have to be stunning for me to buy it.

        • Anon for this

          Not to out myself, but I do wear a class ring every day. It’s a signet ring (not a stone) with the school crest on it. It’s white gold and I honestly love it.

        • I won mine!

          In a senior class study break. But I accidently got it a size too small so I don’t wear it. Mine’s also a signet with the school crest. Unfortunately I think the Jostens rings are too bulky for my petite fingers.

        • Wildkitten

          I only see Notre Dame, UVA, and military academy grads wearing class rings.

          • January

            The UVA ones are a nice signet ring! I get compliments on it (when I still wear it, which is not often anymore). I’m also not in DC, so they may be less frequently seen here.

        • Gail the Goldfish

          I had one, but it was stolen when I moved (thanks, movers). I haven’t bothered getting a new one because I realized I just never wore it. If I ever do get a new one, I think I’m going to get one of the signet rings instead of one of the ones with a stone.

        • Anon

          I used to wear mine for a couple years after I graduated, but then I lost it and never replaced it and could not see wearing it now. I don’t know anyone who does. My husband still has his, but he never wears it either.

    • dcdarling

      To piggyback off of your jewelry thread, (which I was also wondering the other day so thanks!) Are there any basic gold bands that are still feminine for around $600? Not a wedding band, but a RHR or a middle finger ring. My mom gave me a beautiful old ring with a loop and chevron, but it is only gold-plated which has started to come off. Ideally, I would wear this everyday. Any suggestions? TIA!

      • Veronica Mars

        Honestly if you like the one you have, you could contact a custom jeweler and see if they could do a wax cast of your mom’s ring and remake it in a better metal. David Klass might be a good bet. It would probably be under $600.

        • dcdarling

          I love all these ideas, but especially this one. I will call them and get a quote, thank you!

      • anne-on

        I’d look at Catbird or Carla Caruso. Catbird has a ton of different delicate options, and Carla Caruso has some gorgeous pieces if you like nature inspired.

      • Wildkitten

        If such a ring exists you could definitely get it in your price range. I think the hurdle is going to be finding rings that don’t look like weddings bands.

      • S in Chicago

        Have you thought about a rolling ring? Still simple and band like but no wedding confusion.

    • moss

      I love amber, it always feels warm and it’s just gorgeous so I’d do an amber pendant. I also like pearls, labradorite, carnelian, and garnet so i’d look for pieces with those stones. My main jewelry is in bracelets so can’t help more specifically than that. :)

    • Chicago Bean Accounter

      My thoughts would be:
      -A nice watch (size/style would depend on your preferences)
      -A pair of nice CZ stud earrings
      -A pair of pearl stud earrings
      -A delicate gold necklace
      -A delicate silver necklace
      -A “fun” or “statement” necklace – possibilities: a long beaded, a bib, a long chain with a large pendant
      -A ring for your right hand – maybe a statement ring, or a more simple one
      -A set of bangles (I don’t wear bracelets at work either, but they are nice on weekends)

      Check out the Gorjana brand (Nordstroms, Shopbop, Zappos) – they have nice delicate pieces at reasonable prices.

    • Diana Barry

      I only every wear necklaces bc no pierced ears and bracelets irritate my wrists. I have several of black/grey beads, pearls/silver beads and then a few statement necklaces mostly with glass beads in colors (red, red/black, orange, turquoise, green, pink). The only “real” jewelry I have is my wedding, engagement and anniversary ring (worn 3 together).

    • KT

      -Diamond or good circonia studs
      -Silver Ball studs
      -Gold studs
      -pearl strand
      -long silver necklace (I have a long watch pendant I adore)
      -long gold necklace
      -one ridiculous statement necklace

    • lawsuited

      If I had to pick a capsule out of what I already own:

      – Mikimoto 7mm pearl earrings
      – Tiffany “Elsa Peretti Bean” earrings
      – White gold 0.6 CTW diamond earrings
      – Kate Spade “Secret Garden” earrings
      – Dogeared “Success” pearl pendant
      – Custom-made version of this necklace made with pearls and white topaz instead of aquamarine (https://www.facebook.com/Chrysalet/photos/pb.148108188732351.-2207520000.1444311854./321998204676681/?type=3&theater)
      – Custom-made statement necklace made of red seed beads
      – Tiffany silver bead bracelet
      – Fossil “Georgia Mini” rose gold watch

      I don’t tend to wear a lot of jewellery at once, so having a mish-mash of metals wouldn’t bother me.

    • KittyKat

      – Black diamond studs. Less expensive than white but equally as versatile and more unique.
      – Pearl studs I have many colours and sizes but I’d probably go with large white.
      – Statement necklace for those t shirt under blazer type days. I have a moonstone, labradorite and sterling silver one I love.
      – Minimalist necklace. I can’t decide which of mine I like best, though I will say I do like longer necklaces.
      – Band rings. I have a variety of sterling silver ones cast with different patterns.
      – Stainless steel watch so that is not subject to the plating wearing off like gold is

    • anon

      Jewelry is so personal that I hardly think this question can be answered. For me, if I were selecting 8 pieces out of what I own, that I wear the most, I’d have 4 natural-stone bead necklaces (freshwater pearl, malachite, amethyst, etc.), two pendants to wear on chains (I really like daphneolive.com, but mostly wear heirlooms and gifts), two large cocktail rings, and two dangly pairs of earrings (mine are clip-on — screw-back mostly — and hand me downs from a relative, so I don’t have any brands). For necklaces, a relative makes them, but I would look on Etsy or at your local bead store. I never wear bracelets.

    • heatherskib

      100″ pearl necklace. Yes, 100 inches. I wear it a million different ways, and it always looks good.
      Pearl studs. Mine were a honeymoon gift from my husband
      Brooch that can also be worn as a pendant
      Silver or gold chain to go with brooch
      Hoop earrings
      Diamond or faux studs and pendant set. Mine are a white sapphire set that look retro
      Watch

    • lucy stone

      I also love jewelry. If I had to pick a capsule from mine (ignoring the watch since you already have one), I’d go with:

      1. Moissanite studs
      2. Pearl studs
      3. Single strand pearl necklace
      4. Cape Cod bracelet. I think I’ve taken this off about 5 times since I received it 10 years ago. Not the official Eden Hand Arts one, but I don’t care. (http://www.lestage.com/cape-cod.htm, mine is silver on silver)
      5. One of my Manic Trout (http://www.manictrout.com/) necklaces. I have a ton of the critter ones, as well as an awesome rose quartz one that was a one of a kind piece.
      6. Hammered gold disc earrings (https://www.etsy.com/listing/85149719/gold-disc-earrings-hammered-and-polished?ref=shop_home_active_12&ga_search_query=hammered)
      7. Aquamarine necklace on silver chain
      8. some sort of silver dangly earring, I have loads and this is a huge personal preference

  2. Athleta

    Does anyone have feedback about Athleta’s quality? How frequently do they go on sale – 30-40% off every week or two like BR? I walked into one of their stores last night for the first time and liked a lot of what I saw, but specifically have my eye on a jacket. Thoughts?

    • I'm Just Me ...

      They don’t have the crazy frequent percent off sales that their sister stores seem to run every week, but they do have the occasional 20% off coupon codes. They mark their collections down on a regular schedule, but the good items tend to sell out in the small sizes, and talls, very quickly. If it’s the perfect jacket, you may want to go ahead and buy it.

    • anon

      Athleta sales are rare–once in a while they offer 25% off a specific item type like pants or sports bras, but “entire purchase” discounts happen once a year or less, and are never more than 25%. Quality is pretty good but not amazing. I’ve had some dresses, tunics, and jackets that pilled or faded a little sooner than I hoped for the price. The fit is tricky. I often, but not always, have to go down a size in dresses and tops. I am between sizes on swimsuits, and the pants just don’t fit (too curvy). For true workout gear, I prefer Zella at Nordstrom–better quality and better fit at a better price.

      • anon

        To clarify, the pants are too curvy for me–I’m not too curvy for the pants.

        • Annie

          I agree with this- the clothing is decent quality, but I haven’t ordered much from them in a while because it’s hard to find things that fit right. I had one great pair of pants, but most of them are way too small in the waist when they otherwise fit properly. The main reason I want to buy from them is that they sell active clothing in petite sizes, but mostly in pants, so all of the tops I’ve tried got returned. If their stuff fits you well, though, I’d recommend them.

          • Clementine

            You know, this makes sense. I’m tall and an athletic hourglass and their clothes fit me wonderfully. They are one of the few brands that fits in both the waist and the quads.

            I’ve been really really happy with how all their clothing has held up, even to repeated washing and drying.

      • Anonymous

        I’ve been really happy with their quality. They also have an outstanding guarantee (they will take anything back at any time and provide a refund) which makes me a committed customer. So for the couple of pants that pilled after six months, I just sent them back and tried a different pair/style.

    • Wildkitten

      I think they are pretty good quality. Their cashmere is out of my budget, but the rest of their stuff is worth the price IMHO.

    • Bonnie

      Love Athleta. Great quality and many of their items come in petite and tall. Their sales are infrequent but they do have end of the season sales where you can get good deals. The basics are rarely more than 20% off though.

    • Senior Attorney

      I love their workout capris. I have found the style I love and was able to get several pair on eBay at a good discount. So you might want to try that option.

    • Killer Kitten Heels

      They don’t have a “coat” category – everything that isn’t a hoodie or a shirt is a “jacket.”

    • Mpls

      They got it wrong. It’s not a jacket. It is a coat. Maybe the person that named it doesn’t live in a climate with more than 2 seasons? And thinks you need a down coat when it is 50F out (I have met these people by the way).

      I still don’t think it’s really that vague of a term. Used incorrectly, sure – but not vague :) But again, I live in a climate where you have temps that range from chilly to freaking-too cold. And the outerwear you wear when it is freaking-too cold is not called a jacket. If you lived somewhere that just had chilly, I could definitely see where you end up defining all outerwear as a jacket because you don’t ever need an actual coat. Shrug – makes sense in my head.

      Just don’t get me started on Jcrew calling circle infinity scarfs snoods.

    • Anonymous

      For what it’s worth, I grew up MPLS and the words were used interchangeable.

  4. anon

    I just bought a pair of suede kitten heels that I love. They’re all right but a little on the tight side later in the day, but uncomfortably tight in the morning. Last time I bought suede shoes, they were comfortable when I bought them but have stretched to the point that they slip off my feet. Does suede just stretch a lot? I don’t really want to go up a size in these just to have them slip off a lot later.

    • lawsuited

      Yep, suede stretches a lot. If you don’t already wear them, wearing hose with your shoes while you’re breaking them in can reduce the discomfort.

    • Bonnie

      IME not all suede shoes stretch a lot. It really depends on the quality of the leather and how they’re lined. If they’re uncomfortably tight, they’re probably too small.

      • anon

        how do I estimate how much they’ll stretch? They’re only uncomfortably tight in the mornings, that subsides around mid-morning, if not earlier.

        • Shopaholic

          It sounds like they’re probably the right size and will stretch out soon, especially since they’re only too tight in the morning.

  5. Ann Taylor Sale

    For the reader who was recently asking about Ann Taylor sales, I got an email this morning that you can get 40% off new fall styles and an extra 60% off sale style using the code SHOPFALL.

  6. anonymous

    How soon after starting a new job would you begin your next job search? I started a new job 6 months ago, and it just isn’t a good fit. My boss is a micromanager who causes me a lot of anxiety, and the job isn’t giving me the promised work-life balance. DH and I are TTC, and I really want to be in a different job when I have a newborn. I was at my last job for 6 years, so I don’t think I would come off as a job hooper.

    • Wildkitten

      You can look now. You’ll have to stay in your next job for 1+ years, but you can cut this one short and it won’t be a pattern.

      • Ellen

        I agree with Wildkitten! If the job is stink-o, start lookeing right away, and do NOT hesitate to move on, like I did with my first law job serveing supeenies. All I got there was pinched in the tuchus by the big boss and the other guys just spent all day stareing at me. I think my talent’s were being wasted there and was far more then eye candy to a bunch of looser’s. The OP should not hesitate to move on.

        BTW, Kat, this pencil skirt is far to riskee for me to wear at work b/c Frank would be teaseing me about the slit, even if he could not grab at me. FOOEY!

    • Scarlett

      You know yourself and your situation best, but are you sure new boss is really a micromanager? 6 months isn’t that long into a new job and it takes a little while to build trust that you probably had at the job you had for 6 years. I’m not one for staying in a bad situation but you might want to think about getting this one a little more if that’s the only issue. I say this as someone who switched jobs and started working for someone I branded as a micromanager in my first 6 months too who has turned out to be an amazing boss. There’s a learning curve and someone watching over you may just be concerned about you fitting in at the company and succeeding. Anxiety from this approach is natural too, as it is with a new job. Just something to think about.

      • Hollis

        I agree completely. The first 6 months are about proving yourself and learning how things function at your office, and your boss’ reputation is also on the line because your work product is a reflection of his/her judgment in hiring you so he/she is personally invested in making sure that your work is flawless. Also, work life balance gets better once you have figured out what your boss prioritizes and what things nobody cares about, and I’m not sure if you can figure that out until after the 6 month mark as well. Wait 6 months and see if you are still feeling this way.

    • Shayla

      Also, keep in mind many employers have vesting periods for maternity leave (and other benefits). If you’re TTC keep that in mind.

      • Aunt Jamesina

        To piggyback off of this, you aren’t eligible for FMLA leave until one year in, although employers can of course opt to have other leave options available.

        • Hollis

          Also, if you know you are TTC, you can buy short term disability insurance for yourself, but from my experience, you need to wait 10 months before the policy will cover labor and delivery. So, you need to buy the insurance before you actually get pregnant, and I wish I had known that.

  7. Wardrobe Do-Over

    I was the OP from a week or two ago who wanted to basically chuck the whole wardrobe and start over. Well, I managed to snag a new job in that time frame and now definitely need to step up my game! I went through my closet and found a few pieces that would work, but have a lot of shopping to do. Does anyone have any additional recommendations for plus size business clothing? So far I’ve hit Talbots, Macy’s and Lord and Taylor with little luck and have an order in at Nordstrom. Anywhere else?

    • KT

      Kiyonna’s wrap dresses are a godsend.

      Lane Bryant of course. I can occasionally find decent jackets/work dresses at Avenue, but their quality isn’t as good.

    • Anonymous

      Lands End for basics. I find their plain sweaters and t’s integrate well into my fancier wardrobe.

      • Katie

        Depending on just how plus-size you are (I’m sort of in between), Ann Taylor stocks size 16 and 18 online and their outlet stores stock 16s and 18s in store. I have great luck there. Occasionally Brooks Brothers will have 16s.

      • Emma

        +1 I just got a bunch of ponte dresses and cardigans from Lands End and I’m so happy with them. This is the first clothing order in awhile where I won’t be returning most of what I’d bought.

    • lawsuited

      My (size 18/20) work wardrobe is from:

      – Talbots (suiting, dresses, blouses)
      – Lands End (pants, coats, dresses)
      – Jones New York (suiting, dresses)
      – Lord and Taylor (sweaters, blouses)
      – Eloquii (dresses)
      – Gap (pants, sweaters, blouses)
      – Nordstrom (dresses, blouses, pants)

      I also have good luck with the plus size rack at Winners/Marshalls, but you have to visit those kinds of stores frequently.

      I’m surprised to hear that you struck out at Talbots, because around 70% of my work clothing is from there and I would really struggle to come up with a business formal work wardrobe without their coordinating seasonless wool pants, skirts, jackets and dresses. I recommend giving them a second look with an eye to tailoring the fit if you find it too boxy.

      • Wardrobe Do-Over

        Maybe I’ll have to go in stores and try some stuff on. I ordered a pair of pants, not their seasonless wool and they looked like a cross between dress pants and dockers. I’ll try again!

        Thanks all for the recs.

        • lawsuited

          IMO, the seasonless wool, crepe and italian flannel pants are their best offerings.

        • 2 Cents

          They definitely have “dressier” work pants available. My favorite pair of grey pants — seasonless crepe? — came from there. If you live by one of the few Talbots Clearance Outlets (not the regular outlet), then you can have some luck sifting through the racks.

          I was just looking for plus-size biz clothes ideas last night, and the selection is sadly limited, in general.

    • Coach Laura

      Pendleton if you have a store near you. Otherwise, their online ordering is easy and they are helpful on the phone. www[dot]Pendleton-usa[dot]com

    • lucy stone

      Try Talbots in the store, like lawsuited probably 70% of my work wardrobe is from there. The seasonless wool and italian flannel is the best, IMO. I just got a great grey Halogen skirt from Nordstrom. I have a number of dresses from Lands’ End that are great, but not the sheath one everyone else loves because my hips are too wide for it. I generally wear a 16 or 18 at Talbots and also fit in an 18US/22UK at Boden in dresses.

  8. Toffee

    Hi, all! Just read the maternity leave discussion from yesterday. Between that, and the lengthy discussion a couple of weeks ago about why should it be paid, I’m hesitant to post, haha. But I really need advice or a pep talk.

    I work for a very small employer (less than 10 employees). It is a California company, so they have an excellent paid leave program. I am not in California. My state does not have any paid sick leave. Most companies here offer STD, but mine does not since the rest of the employees are in California and do not need it. I spent hours on the phone trying to get an STD policy independently, but could not find one. I only have LTD. I love my job, but looks like I’m going to get two weeks paid to recover from a scheduled c-section with my second child in March. My job is not particularly difficult or stressful, but I know my quality of work will suffer from lack of sleep, etc.

    Another issue is that when I was hired in April, I accepted a lower salary with the promise that we’d consider a raise in 6-12 months. We had a review last month, but my boss didn’t mention a raise. My boss constantly raves about my work, calls me a super star, has changed my title from junior associate to just associate on the website/marking materials (without mentioning it to me), and has me on the front page of our marketing materials. Most of my colleagues do not have a law degree (I’m in patent searching), so my law degree is a huge advantage and he touts it often to clients. My work is far above the quality from competitors and right on par with others at our company who have been doing this for several years.

    I cannot afford any unpaid leave. I work from home and have never actually met my boss. We just talk on the phone (and, frankly, have a much better relationship than I’ve ever had with any boss.) How do I tell him I’m pregnant, ask for paid leave (or should I?), and ask for a raise? What order should I do this? Should I just bring it up during one of our random phone calls or send an email to schedule a call to discuss? I am TERRIBLE at these discussions. The thought makes me want to cry from anxiety. Any specific phrasing would be much appreciated! I can’t really threaten to go elsewhere since I love working from home, enjoy the work, and cannot really find comparable work-life balance elsewhere.

    Thank you for your help! And please be gentle. I realize I’ve made some really stupid financial decisions this year (there’s more I won’t get into. I’m feeling pretty guilty over them). I can’t believe I left a firm with six months paid maternity leave and a salary almost double what I have, even though my future there was very limited due to my inability to balance home life with the hours they expected. I didn’t really expect a second child ever, so I can’t regret being pregnant, but the timing is not ideal, obviously.

    • Anonymous

      Why didn’t you ask for a raise during your review?

      Request a scheduled call with him. Say you think you’re off to a great start and you’re loving the job. There are a couple things you want to discuss. A) you were promised a raise, B) you’re pregnant and want the same amount of paid leave as your CA colleagues.

      And so help me God Toffee you better be seeing a therapist and taking meds for your anxiety.

      • Hollis

        How is this an appropriate response? Are we even looking at the same post?

    • MSJ

      Just because you aren’t guaranteed a certain leave by law doesn’t mean an employer can’t give you more. I was not covered FMLA but was able to negotiate a solid leave. At the very least, you should seek to have them match your CA colleagues.
      The review would have been a better time to ask for the raise but you should bring up the fact that you noticed the title change and ask to make that official along with any salary implications that may have per your earlier negotiations.
      Also, can you try to schedule regular (at least annual) visits with head office so that you get some face time in?

    • anon

      I would deal with the raise separately, before mentioning the pregnancy or maternity leave. “Hey, boss, I noticed that on the website my title has changed. Am I correct in assuming that this means I have been promoted in accordance with our understanding at the time of my hiring? Am I also correct in assuming that there has been an adjustment in my salary?” Once the raise is worked out, I’d wait a couple of weeks before announcing the pregnancy.

        • HSAL

          Agreed, don’t do that. And definitely ask for what your CA colleagues receive, at minimum.

          • Toffee

            I don’t think I’m entitled to the same as California employees. There’s a HUGE difference in how they’re paid (by the state) and how you’re saying I should be paid (by my very small employer who would be quite strained by not only losing my productivity for that period but also losing significantly more money by paying me as opposed to California employees). We spent hours discussing sick leave and couldn’t reach a solution when I was hired. He can’t afford to provide these benefits to me.

            Also, I do not think having anxiety over salary discussions warrants medical intervention. You have got to be kidding with that. I don’t need to be drugged to have these discussions, I’ve just never needed to have them. I’ve always worked for extremely large employers with formal reviews and lock-step raises.

            Finally, I didn’t even realize that was my review at the time since we weren’t at six months yet, it wasn’t scheduled or labeled as such until the end, and it wasn’t formal in any way. I was caught off guard and thought it was just the average “how are things going” discussion we normally have.

          • Anonymous

            Girl please. Please. No one thinks you need professional help because of this one conversation. It’s because of your entire posting history. You literally quit your job and now have no maternity leave because of your inability to cope with stress.

            If you don’t want to ask for what they get fine. Figure out what you do want and ask for that.

  9. Wow

    My cheapo rain boots from DSW just died on me. Do you have a calf-length rain boot that you love? My calves are neither narrow nor wide. I know that Hunter is what everyone seems to love but I’m curious for other recommendations. Looking for something stylish in addition to comfortable.

    • Have you ...

      Tried Tretorn? I like them for the reasons people like hunters: quality, comfort, durability. But I find them a little bit less ubiquitous and they tend to be quite a bit cheaper, too.

    • Rain boots

      Le Chameau

      I have the Country Lady (in their olive green color as well as black). They are awesome. Apparently the Duchess of Cambridge agrees.

    • Anonymous

      I’ve had Dav cowboy rainboots for several years. Just bought some cool moto rainboots at DSW, but more for the style than my others wearing out.

    • Anon Worker Bee

      FYI if your longer post above went into moderation, it could be because you used the word webs!te.

  11. anon

    It’s admittedly early for this, but do you have a real or artificial christmas tree, and why? I’d prefer an artificial one so as to not cut down trees, but we don’t have a ton of space, so storing it the other 11 months of the year would be unpleasant. Thoughts?

    • AIMS

      Real. Because no matter how pretty your artificial tree may be it doesn’t smell like a real pine tree. We actually smell all the trees when we pick ours out. I deal with my tree cutting guilt by recycling the tree for mulch at the end of the season (easy to do in NYC).

    • Cream Tea

      Never too early. For me, nothing beats a real tree. The look, smell, excitement. Plus, I am of the view that a real tree is better for the environment, as it will compost and recycle into the environment, as opposed to the fake tree sitting in a landfill for all eternity after its 5 years of service.

    • green

      Real is more environmentally friendly. The real tree would never be planted in the first place unless it was going to be cut down, and before it is cut it spends a few years soaking up CO2. Then it gets recycled into mulch after Christmas.

      Family members who have artificial trees report that they shed needles and are not really any less messy than real trees, and are a pain to set up. And a nice artificial tree won’t last long enough to be more economical than real trees in the long run.

      • CHJ

        +1. Most Christmas trees are grown on a farm, like crops. You’re not cutting down an old growth forest for your Christmas tree. If you have concerns about where your tree is coming from, you can research local Christmas tree farms and go pick one up directly from the producer.

        • Diana Barry

          +100. I use this same argument with my husband. :) Plus, they smell awesome!

          • AR

            I never win this argument with my husband. He always wants fake because of effort/clean up. So I get a yankee candle and burn it all the time so that the whole house smells like Christmas Tree. Maybe one day…

      • Blonde Lawyer

        Yeah, a colleague that was a former farmer totally laughed at my concern over cutting down Christmas trees. He explained how they are there own industry and the trees wouldn’t be there at all but for us using them as Christmas trees.

      • Anonymous

        I disagree that a nice artificial tree isn’t more economical. We’ve been using the same tree for the past6 years, and I expect we will get at least another 4-5 out of it. I’m sure we would have spent more than $200 on real trees during that time.

      • Deep Thought

        My parents have had the same artificial tree for nearly 25 years. So they can be very economical!

    • Bonnie

      Artificial. It’s not a traditional tree but a pre-lit white tree with mod flair. Since we don’t use ornaments, the tree does not take much storage room.

    • Anonymous

      Artificial, because I’m allergic to all the things. I have a 4′ prelit one that doesn’t take up too much room to store.

      • Maddie Ross

        This. Artificial, because otherwise no one in our house can breathe between Thanksgiving and New Years.

    • Duchess

      I like artificial. It means I can put it up at Thanksgiving and take it down at the Epiphany, and not have to worry about setting my house on fire in the meantime. Plus, we always had artificial growing up because some members of my family were (are) crazy allergic to the real ones, so it’s just what feels normal to me now.

      • HSAL

        Same, I like real trees but I also like being able to have it up an entire month looking just as good as the day I put it up.

        • Anonattorney

          Hmm, you can water the real tree (put tree stump in bucket, screw tree stand into the trunk above the bucket, just keep bucket 3/4 full of water). We get ours shortly after Thanksgiving and keep it up past New Year’s. It doesn’t get brown until early January.

    • Brit

      I have an artificial one and that’s what we had growing up because the smell of pine is a trigger for my mom’s migraines (and can trigger really bad headaches for me). I store mine at my dad’s house, but I’ll probably put a smaller, table top one that my roommate has out this year because a) space and b) we have a new kitten that has no fear of heights and likes to climb anything she can.

      • Meg March

        FYI, cats hate citrus smell. I sprayed a orange cleaner on our (artificial little 2-foot) tree and our kitty quit climbing it.

    • CKB

      Artificial for our whole married life (20+years). I don’t mind the lack of scent. We watch for good sales and buy quality trees that last a long time. I love the convenience and low maintenance aspects. Pre lit trees are awesome. With kids I also like that they are lighter than real, in case the tree ever gets pulled over. But we’ve always had a place to store our tree. If space was an issue I might switch to real.

    • Snickety

      Christmas trees are grown on tree farms for exactly that purpose. In my area, they’re often small family farms. We’ve cut our own tree at the same local farm for years.

      • Anonattorney

        Yes – I’m now going to the same family farm that my parents went to when I was little. I’m in the PNW, so real trees are inexpensive. My husband is from the midwest, where real trees weren’t quite as common. He grew up with an artificial tree. We tried artificial for a few years when we were in a small apartment, but once we moved into our house I wanted the real thing. IT’S SO MUCH BETTER! I love all the pomp and circumstance of getting the real tree – going to the U-Cut farm, having cinnamon mini-donuts and hot apple cider at said farm, picking out some poinsettias and a wreath, having the guys shake and wrap the tree and get it on the car, getting the tree home and putting it on the stand, picking the best angle, then stringing all my lights (many many many strands of lights) on the tree. The only maintenance is giving it water every couple of days.

        • Snickety

          Me too! Tree cutting day is my favorite day of the holiday season. It’s almost always snowing and so pretty. I’m in the upper midwest and almost everyone I know gets a real tree these days, although we had a fake one when I was growing up. I hated it because I wanted a real Charlie Brown Christmas tree, not a phony crass commercial holiday tree.

    • Anonymous

      Fake, because I put it up the day after Thanksgiving and leave it up for nearly two months. Also, I’m a single woman who does not want to wrangle a real tree into a stand by herself.

      • Anonymous

        I get mine delivered. It is magic. They set it up in the stand and come back in January to remove it for $15.

    • SC

      Real because DH can’t imagine a tree without the smell of pine. And a local store will deliver a Christmas tree with the lights already on and a stand the weekend after Thanksgiving. It is amazing.

        • Vintage Lawyer

          I’m in Houston and I’ve had a real tree, already in a stand with the lights affixed, delivered for the past several years. It’s expensive, but it’s so worth it.

    • lucy stone

      Artificial because we travel over the holidays and a real one always involves about four more hours at the tree farm than I want, but we buy small pine boughs and small trees to still get the smell.

    • an

      Fake, because we’re not Christians bye my kids like to look at the tree. Very pretty , all lit up. And we live in the tropics, no pines!

  12. Rose

    I had my “final” interview for a position last Friday. HR gave me a timeline for hearing back which has passed. I haven’t followed up yet because it’s not even a week.

    Can I follow up on Friday, or should I wait till next week?

    • DCR

      When did HR say you would hear back? How accurate with timing have the been for the rest of the process?

      I would wait until at least one week after the day they said. If they were often late, I would wait until two weeks after

      • Rose

        By Monday (this past – ie the first business day after the interview). They’ve been spot on up to this point but given the compressed time line on this one, I can see them taking a bit longer.

  13. Anon for This.

    How long do you need to be a job before you determine it’s not for you? I can’t figure out if I hate working at a firm, or if I just hate working for my firm. I’ve been here 2 years. Apparently everything is going fine. But I don’t like the working styles of the people I have to deal with the most (for example, giving me revisions for page 1 of a document of 10 pages. So I get called in to sr. atty’s office to go over page 1, then I go back to my office while he reviews page 2, and so on. It’s frustrating and so inefficient; Another example – doing six revisions of a cover letter (one page) where she revises her last revision and it takes 2 hours to do a cover letter (and by the way I used a previous cover letter from a similar situation done by the same atty so that I could mimic the tone/preferred language)). I don’t have any allies or anyone I could trust to discuss these issues at the firm.

    • Ems

      try another firm! I hated my old one but I love my new one! the people and working style/speed really make a difference.

    • Anonymous

      It sounds at though this is your first job after college? At two years, it’s long enough that you can start looking for something else – I would try another firm first before assuming its the career path.

    • MJ

      In my experience (at a lot of different jobs) people have different work styles. So you can enjoy the subject matter of your work but really not enjoy working the way that you have to work due to your co-workers. Also, just know that many, many people are not efficient workers (and if you are, and you have to work with them, it can be really frustrating). However, IME, you can’t really vet people’s work styles very well in interviews. So even if you leave, you are gambling unless you know someone on the inside who can help you out with understanding that.

      I also think that many lawyer-types are just crazy micromanagers who like to heavily edit even their own work. You will do much better if you don’t think of how efficient it could be or whether it makes sense, but rather think, “This is not how I would do this if I were in charge/I value my own time more highly. But I am not the boss.”

  14. Moisturizer

    What’s everyone’s favorite moisturizer (drug store strongly preferred)? In the summer I’m good to go with Tarte BB cream under my makeup but with Fall weather starting it is just not cutting it anymore.

    • AnonForThis

      I know I’m going to get hate for this but… Make your own or buy from a local artisan. The alcohols in store moisturizers dry the life out of your skin and give the illusion that the lotion is absorbing when it’s really just evaporating. Where as the mineral oils and silicones don’t absorb which means they are just creating a barrier and suffocating your skin. This is how wrinkles are created. Things like plant oils and glycerine can actually be absorbed and used by your skin.

      • Moisturizer

        I’m intrigued. Do you have any preferred recipes? If it is easy to find stuff and not a lot of work I might be game for this.

        • AnonForThis

          I use bees wax, aloe, eucalyptus essential oil, coconut oil, almond oil and glycerine in mine. Long term it’s much cheaper but buying the ingredients up front is a bit pricy about $50 but that’s enough for years

      • Anonymous

        Do you have a source that says that wrinkles are caused by mineral oils creating a barrier and suffocating your skin? That seems incorrect.

        • AnonForThis

          Wrinkles are caused by the skin’s inability to rejuvenate at the same rate as in youth and structural damage (like from sun). A key component to skin cell turnover is access to adequate air (as well as moisturizing, and exfoliation). By suffocating the skin you are slowing down cell turnover and inhibiting the body’s availability to heal itself. If you have access to academic data bases I can send you some reference numbers, but obviously those aren’t available on google.

    • CPA Lady

      Kiss My Face Olive & Aloe unscented. I get it at Whole Food for like $8 for a huge bottle that lasts months. I have very sensitive rosacea-prone skin in the winter, and I love this lotion.

      • CKB

        Me too. I switched last December and my skin has never looked better. I’ve also has fewer breakouts. Love the line.

    • Brunette Elle Woods

      I’ve been using Neutrogena or Olay for years. I would like to switch to something organic, but I need at least sfp 25 for everyday and around $20. Any suggestions?

      • Katie

        How heavy do you need it to be? DeVita fits the bill for you, but the version I tried is a little light. Maybe there’s a more moisturizing version in their line. I find it at natural foods grocery stores.

    • Terry

      The best thing I did for my dry skin was starting to wash with Ponds Cold Cream (thanks to a commentator here). It’s helped my skin more than any moisturizer ever has. I was worried I’d have severe breakouts with it (since it’s basically mineral oil) but that has not happened (in fact, my skin is better since it’s not flaking, etc, from dryness). I follow it with Aveeno moisturizer.

  15. Bonnie

    I’m intrigued by this skirt but think it would be difficult to pear with tights.

  16. (Former) Clueless Summer

    Are duffel coats professional enough to stand in as my one “dress” winter coat? (I have a super warm down puffer for the coldest days when cold > professionalism.) By dress, I mean, nice enough to be worn on a business trip where clients and colleagues would see, and nice enough to be seen in it during work lunches or after work events by partners, etc.

    Right now I have something similar to a Lady Day coat (but belted) but it is not quite as warm as I’d like. LL Bean has what looks to be a lovely duffel coat that is also Thinsulate lined but I’m not sure it will be professional enough to be worn on days when I anticipate seeing clients or partners in the coat.

    Keep in mind I’m in a cold climate, so I’d expect to be wearing the coat all winter.

    • NYNY

      I think the toggle closures on duffel coats read too casual for it to be a dress coat, but that may vary by region. I’d go with the LL Bean 3/4 polo coat with the same thinsulate lining for a sleeker look.

    • Anonymous

      A duffle coat is too casual for what you need. If you like that cut, check out cocoon coats, which are more on trend (and warmer) than the close fitting lady day style.

    • Anonymous

      I disagree and I just actually bought that coat for that exact purpose.

  17. Opportunity

    A job has become available for which I might like to apply. I am trying to decide whether to throw my hat in the ring. My biggest hesitation is that I actually love my current job– I am a government attorney, I get to go to court very often, I get to do work that I really care about, I am good at it and know what to do. I have been with this agency for three years and could easily see spending ten years or even my entire career here. Since it’s government, I have a fair amount of work/life balance, flexibility, etc., which is especially nice while my children are small (now and for the next decade at least).

    The job that is available is an in-house position at an organization that is very special to me. It is a more senior position than what I have now. It would be very different than the work I do now– little to no court appearances, more contract work (meh for me), negotiations (I think I would like these), and advising the leaders of the organization on a wide variety of legal issues (premises liability, safety on their properties, HR issues, compliance, etc). I would LOVE working for this organization and am not sure how I would feel about the nuts and bolts of the work. I also don’t know if it would be as flexible as my current job (Can I leave for an hour if my kid gets sick at daycare? How big of a deal is it to go to the school play in the middle of the afternoon? That sort of thing). It would also require my family to move, but it’s a short move to a city we like and wouldn’t be a problem for DH’s job.

    There will be a lot of very qualified applicants, some certainly more qualified than I am, so there’s no guarantee I’d get the position– but I don’t want to apply unless I know I would accept it. It seems the decision is whether to leave the safety of a known quantity (with work I love doing) to go work for an organization (that I also love) and not be sure what I’d be doing. Any thoughts on a move like that? Are there other things I should consider? Thank you for any advice you can give!

    • NYC tech

      “I don’t want to apply unless I know I would accept it.” Why? The interview process is intended for both sides to figure out if the job is a good fit. You can’t, in fact, know if you would accept it without doing the interview. What if the atmosphere is tense and hostile? What if the benefits, salary, and perks are WAY better than you ever imagined? What if your current job announces layoffs tomorrow?

      From the sounds of it, you can in 100% good faith say that you are genuinely interested in the job, and under the right conditions would possibly accept it. So APPLY! It’s not an obligation :) Don’t take yourself out of the running for what could be a great opportunity.

      • Opportunity

        Very good point– the reason I don’t want to apply unless I know I would accept it is because of personal relationships. I am on great terms with people at the organization, and in this particular situation, expressing interest to them and then deciding not to accept it might be hurtful to them (and damaging to me for the future).

        I think what you suggested is absolutely right in most situations, but in this circumstance I think it could damage my relationships with that org if I applied and didn’t accept. Although– maybe I will do it anyway :)

        • Anonymous

          If youve got an existing relationship can you frame it to your contact there as wanting to come in and learn more about the opportunity and how you might be able to help? That way it is less “I want this job” and more “I am interested and want to know more”? Also, if youre most excited about being affiliated woth the org, rather than the specific job, are there other ways you could strengthen the relationship? Opportunities to partner? Take on an advisory or board role? Create your own role there? Work on a publication or other field building project together? Obviously depends on the nature of the industry, but it could be that the job is wrong for you, but there is still another opportunity you could create for your self. But agree, you wont know until you have some more conversations!

        • WestCoast Lawyer

          If you have close contacts within the organization can you reach out to them to help answer some of your questions? They may be able to tell you, or example, if a lot of people have kids and seem to be comfortable with the inevitable schedule disruptions or whether everyone is at their desks from 9-5 (or 8-7 or whatever).

        • Clementine

          If you have a good relationship with people there, would it be possible to reach out to one of them with your potential concerns and/or to figure out if it’s a good fit before you apply?

          Could you have a cup of coffee or send an email that just says that you’re really interested in this position, you think the organization is amazing, blah blah blah; however, you want to make sure that this job is a good fit on both sides. Part of that is a small amount of day to day flexibility.

          Maybe frame it as a ‘this is what I want to do long term, but I want to make sure the timing is also going to work for both of us.’

          (If it were me, I would apply. 140%)

      • mascot

        Agree that you should apply. I think your personal relationships are blurring the lines in your head. This is a business decision. Even if you find out the fit isn’t right, there are ways you can gracefully turn down an offer.

    • SSJD

      I had the same reaction at NYC Tech. The interview process should provide a lot of details that will help you decide whether or not you actually want the job. Some specifics I can think of include personality of your manager, culture of the department you would be joining, organizational changes on the horizon, etc. Apply and then make a decision later when you know more.

    • just apply

      This was my outlook recently for some job apps and even interviews, (“I don’t want to do it unless I’d accept). I now realize I was getting ahead of myself. Even though I think I was a great fit for some of the positions, most of them I didn’t even hear back yes or no as to whether I received an interview. Therefore, if you are interested in the position, you might as well apply.

  18. DisenchantedinDC

    Just accepted a job offer! There’s a process that goes with it so it will be a hot second until I can leave my current job, but what a relief. And, a 16% pay increase!

    I’m flushed and shaking a bit at work. When can I get out of here and pop the bubbly!?

  19. Static Cling problem

    I just got a Halogen shirt dress in my Trunk Club box that I like, but it creates major static cling. It’s 100% polyester. Are there easy ways to reliably prevent static cling, or should I return it? I don’t have a dryer, so I line dry all of my clothes.

    • Aunt Jamesina

      Either rubbing a dryer sheet on it, or moisturizing your hands and then running them over the shirt seems to work for me.

    • KinCA

      In a pinch, a little hairspray (sprayed from a distance, obviously) can help with static cling issues.

  20. Help for fish-hater

    Hive, I have decided to start eating fish for health reasons. I am vegetarian, recently diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder and the Autoimmune Protocol calls for a paleo-type (even more restrictive) diet.
    I think I manage to eat fish. But I’ve never really liked it. I’ve googled “fish recipes for people who hate fish” and have come up with some ideas.

    I’d like some quick I-get-home-from-work-at-6 pm- and-need-to-get-dinner- on- the- table- fairly- quickly suggestions.

    Thank you!

    • 2 Cents

      I’m not a big seafood-eating person, but I happen to like salmon (no skin on the bottom). Add some citrus spice blend on the top, put the fillet in the toaster oven, 400 degrees for like 15 minutes = dinner.

    • Anonymous

      Fish tacos? You could add a lot of veggies and use corn tortillas, if your diet allows.

    • Bonnie

      Start off with less fishy fish like mahi mahi or tilapia. We buy these individually frozen, drop them into a bowl of cold water right when we get home and they’re thawed by the time we change. I usually sprinkle the filets with whatever spices I’m feeling (italian, curry, old bay, cajun) and a little salt then LIGHTLY dredge the filets in flour. I then throw them into a non-stick pan with a little olive oil and they cook in a few minutes per side. If you have a toaster oven, you can also broil filets quickly. Broiling saves a lot of time especially if you first roast potatoes and vegetables and then add the fish on top.

    • Terry

      Two ideas:
      1) Smoked Salmon (fatty, but so tasty and not fishy)
      2) Tuna fish tacos. I think I got the recipe off the bumblebee website, but essentially you mix canned tuna with beans, cabbage and a few other things. The tuna flavor is diluted by everything else (and I believe it’s paleo-compliant).

      • Fish OP

        Ooohh, I did like lox before I became vegetarian, that might work too!

        Ate a small can of tuna (with lemon and pepper) today at lunch, yay!

    • marinara covered

      I try to eat fish at least 1x/week. I’m not a huge fan but don’t hate it. My favorite recipe is either cod or halibut with marinara over it. Usually I will do 2 fillets in a glass pan, with a little olive oil at the bottom of the pan. I put the filet in the pan and the cover both with marinara (maybe 1/2 or 1 cup total?) Cook uncovered at 350 for 25 mins.

      Similar to this: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/84425/haddock-marinara/

      A good side would be green beans or a salad. I also do GF ravioli on the side sometimes, but that isn’t paleo.

    • Help for fish-hater

      Thank you everyone. Should have mentioned that I am celiac, so no wheat.

      Eventually I am (as per the Autoimmune Protocol) going to give up corn as well, but perhaps the tacos will provide a good entry into eating fish in the short term!

      • (Former) Clueless Summer

        You can make paleo tortillas out of plantains, cauliflower, cassava flour – a whole bunch of stuff. It’s a PITA, but its delicious with cabbage, avocado and tilapia dredged in almond flour and spices and panfried.

    • Senior Attorney

      Gentleman Friend made some awesome swordfish for me last night: he cut it in one-inch squares and marinated it for about half an hour in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, curry powder, cumin, and olive oil, then grilled it on skewers for a total of eight minutes, turning once. Served it with couscous, to which he added chopped apple and halved grapes. It was ridic delish and pretty quick.

    • Killer Kitten Heels

      Easiest fish recipe ever – take a white fish filet, top it with salsa (or lemon and garlic butter), wrap the whole thing in a foil pouch, and cook for 10-15 minutes. It steams through and is delicious, and requires almost no prep time or thinking.

    • Beth

      I have to follow FODMAP for my autoimmune disease and was forced back into eating meat also – I find dried anchovies from Japan cook up nicely very fast and make excellent stock and are relatively eco-friendly/sustainable minus the importing, of course. The rest of my meat is individually packaged portions of raw wild pacific salmon that my local butcher orders and preps for me. I just thaw it in water and then do whatever sort of sauce I can stomach that day – I’d recommend keeping your prep easy for autoimmune protocols especially during the elimination phase so you can more easily document your symptoms. I typically use Tamari (gluten free soy sauce, if you can still have soy) plus Sriracha or wasabi or dill mustard. Sometimes maple plus Tamari also. I find the freshness of the wild salmon doesn’t taste fishy at all. I was raised on fish though before going veggie so I might have a different pallet. I also eat a fair amount of local eggs from a farm I trust, pickled or hard boiled for food at the office and in frittatas with potatoes/spinach for dinner.

  21. biotin and going off birth control

    Two questions:

    1. Has anyone tried biotin for thinning hair and seen positive results?

    2. I’ve been on birth control pills for years. I’m ready to go off of them. Any anecdata about what you went through when going off of it? Hormonal or hair weirdness? Acne? Weight gain or loss? Just bracing myself for what’s to come.

    • Maddie Ross

      Purely anecdotal, but I was on for about 10 years and really had no issues when I went off. I was super irregular before starting at about 20 and was surprised to find out when I went off that it only took about 2 cycles to establish myself at 30 days, like clockwork. I didn’t notice any weight change at all. The only real thing I noticed was that my deep, cystic acne came back with a vengeance.

      • NYtoCO

        I had the exact same experience as Maddie Ross. I was on BC for about 8 years (pill for 3, and nuva ring for the last 5). I was expecting my body to go crazy, but it was actually great. My period had been really weird for the last 6 months of my BC regimen and it became normal immediately (and slightly lighter. Nothing weird happened to my skin or hair. On top of all of that, because I’m tracking my temperatures (Natural Family Planning) I’ve realized I may have some sort of hormone deficiency that I probably wouldn’t have noticed for a long time.

    • Wildkitten

      I’ve heard some people break out from biotin so I wouldn’t do both at the same time (that way you’ll know which one is causing you to break out, if that happens.)

    • Thin hair

      I tried it for hair loss and I can’t say that I saw much improvement, but it didn’t make the situation worse so no harm in trying. I think I did see some improvement after using the GNS hair, skin and nails vitamins.

      I also tried accupuncture, that didn’t work at all (although it was relaxing!). :)

      For hair loss, the only thing that worked for me was using the Aveda Invati products. I am amazed at how much better/fuller my hair looks now.

      You can also try Rogaine, assuming that you’re not preggers/nursing.

    • First Year Anon

      I was really worried when i went off BC but it was fine. The first month or two I went through an adjustment then everything was normal!

    • Anonymous

      I was on BC for about 9 years when I went off it a few years ago, and the adjustment was awful–horrible cramps, terribly irregular cycle, acne that I still have scars from 5 years later, etc. I went back on it and was on it until 3 or 4 months ago, and the adjustment has been much better this time. My cycle is regular, albeit a little short (24-25 days so still “normal”), cramps are no worse than they were while on the pill, and my migraines that I get when on the pill have disappeared. The cystic acne is back with a vengeance though. Thank goodness for retin-A.

  22. JP

    Skip the couscous on this one and it’s pretty fast (can do spice rub ahead of time): http://www.cookinglight.com/m/food/quick-healthy/fish-shellfish-recipes/grilled-salmon-brown-butter-couscous-reci

    I don’t know that this fits your criteria -not sure if dressing fits dietary restrictions? Probably too time intensive for week nights? – but had to include as it’s one of my favorites and also very veggie heavy:
    http://www.dinneralovestory.com/dinner-a-morning-show-story/

  23. Stopping Auto Play Ads

    I’m not sure if people are still having problems with auto play ads on this s!te but Ask a Manager is having issues with them as well and Alison just posted this link on how to disable them on any browser. I haven’t tried it yet but wanted to pass it along. Interestingly, she actually suggested her readers install ad blocking software as a last resort if they can’t find other ways around the ads and it is truly annoying for them.

    Link to follow

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