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Updated: Nov 1, 2018 181 Comments · by

Splurge Monday’s TPS Report: Hale Double-Layer Blazer

The Personal Shopper (TPS)

This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Our daily TPS reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices. J Brand Hale Double-Layer BlazerOK, this is a slightly boring blazer — but I love the little details, like the double layer crepe front, the hook and eye closures, the lack of a collar, and the slitted (not buttoned) cuffs. It’s the kind of piece that makes a great blazer-as-separate look — simple and versatile, but clearly not a suit. It’s $595 at Bergdorf Goodman. J Brand Ready to Wear Hale Double-Layer Blazer Seen a great piece you’d like to recommend? Please e-mail tps@corporette.com. (L-2)

Workwear sales of note for 12.7.23

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

Comments

  2. hellskitchen

    Out of my price range but I really like this blazer. The v-neck line makes it look like a true separates blazer as opposed to many blazers with traditional collars/lapels that look like they are part of a suit.

  3. Killer Kitten Heels

    Love this blazer so hard.

    Also, is it just me, or is it a bit “Claire Underwood”? I feel like these types of subtle details are very much her bag.

    • Diana Barry

      Yes! It reminds me of the coatdress she is wearing in 2-13.

      I think I would like it better if the hooks and eyes were black rather than silver – it looks like they’re sticking out too much.

      • Killer Kitten Heels

        Yes! Only Alicia would wear it to court, and I would shake my head about it, because seriously Alicia? To court? (I have that moment at least once per episode.)

      • TCFKAG

        I was just about to say the same thing! Except, as KKH would say, she would wear it as a separate with, like, a GORGEOUS purple dress or perfect red pencil skirt to court and I would sigh because she would look beautiful but not court appropriate at all.

        So I can’t decide what makes me sad – that Alicia is never court appropriate or that “court appropriate” is so boring that Alicia doesn’t meet its requirements. Le sigh.

  4. J Crew Schoolboy Blazer -- good alternative?

    LOVE this blazer (not that it’s polyester though and a bit out of budget). I have exactly this hole to fill in my closet though (prior jacket is so old it has become shiny). Would the J Crew Schoolboy Blazer be a good alternative (either version) for wearing with dresses and other pieces (The Skirt, The Dress, etc.)? Can anyone who has it comment on what you wear it with?

    • anne-on

      Just an FYI – they changed the schoolboy blazer this season to have slightly more prominent padding in the shoulders. I have an older version from last season that I love but the new version is a bit too intentionally 80’s retro for me to wear for work. I returned it and the sales person noted that a lot of people don’t care for the new padding either. Here’s hoping they bring the old style back.

    • Wildkitten

      I just got a black one this weekend plan to wear it as a separates jacket. I previously had it in navy from factory, which looked even less I’m wearing half a suit.

    • School Boy Blazer

      I have this blazer in grey from a few years ago. I think it would be difficult to style with dresses because of where it hits on the hip and the bright brass buttons.

      I would love a post on what blazers work with what type of dresses. I have some that are sorta shrunken and some that are longish that both seem yo work, but I can’t put my finger on what the qualities are that make them work. Right now I just have to buy and try them on with dresses.

      • Meg Murry

        Yes! Seconding the request for a “hunt” for blazers for over dresses or that look intentionally like a separates instead of “I grabbed the wrong jacket for this suit today”

        Even better if there are picks that come in plus sizes or for those of us with full busts.

  5. Equity's Darling

    I love this blazer!

    Discussion topic: What is one thing you do everyday that makes your life happier or more efficient?

    • NOLA

      More efficient would be my morning routine. I pretty much do the same things every morning at the same time and it allows me to have a more relaxed morning and get out the door on time.

      Happier would be working out. Even when I’m rage-y about work, if I go to the gym, I feel better. I just put in my earbuds and work up a sweat.

      • preg anon

        I need to work on working out, but the thing I do is meal plan on the weekends. I go to the grocery store every weekend with a very specific list of what I need for each meal, and what day I’m going to eat that meal. And then we don’t vary. We both look at our calendars when we meal plan to see if we have any plans that week (rarely, now, given the baby) so that we don’t have any wasted meals. I also make sure I plan meals with leftovers and think through what days I need lunch. It makes my life both happier and more efficient! And less expensive!

        • Carine

          I’ve been doing this since last summer and it is the single best thing I could recommend to make life easier for working parents. I didn’t have high hopes that I would stick with it, but I have missed maybe three weeks in an eight-month span of doing this, shockingly. It really works for us! I plan every Saturday night after our toddler is in bed, breakfasts and dinners, looking at her daycare menu for the week and our schedules. I use the same notebook, opened to a fresh spread of pages–grocery list on the left, days of the week and meals on the right. Sunday mornings we get up, go out to breakfast, then head to the grocery store with my notebook and do one big shop for the week. We usually have fish right away, more veggie options and things like those chicken sausages that keep well as we get to the end of the week. I like having so many weeks of meals to reference, and we really cut our restaurant/take-out budget substantially. Oh, and while I’m planning my husband usually gets out our budget stuff so that we’re both being productive and it feels somewhat balanced.

          Working out, now…can’t seem to make that happen with any regularity.

        • Anon

          I do this also and it is such a big help. My husband typically starts dinner and so he looks at the calendar and knows what needs to get done. It helps so much with food waste since I plan in uses for leftovers and helps us eat healthier and avoid eating out so often. before doing this we would be tired at the end of the day and just pick up take-out on the way home.

        • ExcelNinja

          We do this too! It’s amazing and really, really works for us. I think I’m going to start using a notebook though, love the ideas of keeping track of previous meals and being able to highlight what we really liked and want to make again.

      • NOLA

        The other things that make me happy are usually something small and silly – I had a bad weekend (my SO may not make it this week – for a good reason but it’s been 8 weeks) but last night I have myself my Mardi Gras manicure. Purple polish with little gold stars. Makes me smile.

        Also, having food in the house that is easy to put together and that I like and I’ll eat is really helpful for my psyche. Right now, that’s blanching green beans and having them plus carrots and grape tomatoes with hummus and I’ll heat up a chicken and apple sausage. I just haven’t been able to get myself to be excited about cooking for just me lately.

    • Monday

      About 6 months ago I became very serious about getting enough sleep. I’m now quite strict about being in bed 8 hours before my alarm will go off, and sometimes it’s earlier. I find I am much happier and more efficient since making this change. It’s not easy, but I could never go back now.

      • Anon

        Please, please stop promoting your blog in every post. I can’t believe you haven’t been blocked yet.

        • Scroll Button

          Hi! I’m the scroll button/wheel, and I’d like you to use me more often! I’m very useful when you are considering posting a snarky comment. Please just scroll on and resist the urge :-)

        • Cat

          FYI @ polished, you won’t get comments like Anon’s if you remove your blog link from the bottom of each comment vs. simply keeping the link in your username.

        • Anon

          FYI, this normal commenting protocol on most other fashion/lifestyle blogs. A signature containing your own blog link. Not a big deal.

        • TCFKAG

          Okay, I haven’t been around that much this week, but she is responding in pertinent and on-topic ways and just adding the URL of her blog to the bottom of the post. Is that REALLY that much worse than people who’s name is blue showing they’ve linked a website?

    • Sydney Bristow

      Interesting question! One thing I do every day that makes me happy is to read on my commute. A few years ago I used to watch video podcasts or TV shows I’d put on my phone, but reading during that time makes me happy.

      • Sydney Bristow

        Reading some of the others I realized there are some other things I do daily that make me happy. They are such a regular thing that I didn’t think about it but I’d definitely miss them if they were gone. I cuddle with my cat on the couch every night when I get home. I also have a nice smelling candle burning whenever I’m home. The scent can be really uplifting, as it was when I opened up my windows and burned a spring scent this weekend because the weather was nice for the first time in a long time. Scent has a strong impact on my mood.

    • anon-oh-no

      working out in the morning helps me feel better. I have to get up early to do it, but its really worth it.

      I also used to put my three year old back in her bed every time she crawled into mine, but i realized that i really like snuggling with her — it seriousely makes me happy, so now she gets to stay.

      Both of these happy things though make it so that i get a little less sleep. I already needed to work on my sleep and I’ve been building up towards 7 hrs, but still have a way to go.

    • Frugal doc..

      Daily happiness? Good/tasty/fast morning coffee. That means a Keurig for me. Not the most frugal, but since I only drink one cup a day and don’t waste on Starbucks, it’s definitely worth it.

      Daily efficiency? Organized routine for things that happen every day, and a written checklist for things that are unique.

      More daily happiness? Scribbling something off my checklist!

    • Anon

      This is making me realize I don’t have a daily thing I do or routine that makes my life better… That sounds more depressing than I mean it to be but does anyone else feel like their life is reactive and not really proactive?

      I rarely get my workouts in, I always feel better when I cook myself dinner but I’m often too tired to do so, I watch tv instead of reading because it just seems easier, I feel like I’m always running late and rarely accomplish things at work because there just seems to be a never ending to do list

      • emeralds

        I have felt like that in a lot of points in my life. It’s so hard to dig yourself out of that hole, but for me, if I can identify a few small, easily-manageable things that reliably make me feel happy (e.g., starting my day with good coffee, and ending it with good wine), and make sure I have, at the minimum, those little things…that helps a lot.

        Some of it just comes down to discipline and planning, like with cooking dinners–yeah, you’re tired when you come home, but if you cook extra over the weekend so all you have to do is microwave some, IDK, beef stew, and make a side salad, that’s a lot easier than starting out from zero. Or having a few quick, easy, go-to recipes for those days when you Just Can’t Even: one of mine is broiled salmon (takes seven minutes, requires no prep) with roasted beets and quinoa/couscous/rice/whatever (prep all of that over the weekend). Personally, I know that food is HUGE for my overall energy level and feelings of being right with the world, so it’s something that I know is worth the payoff in hassle and time.

        • PolyD

          To add on to this, learn to cook very quick things that you enjoy, and cook them while listening to music and drinking a glass of wine! Multi-tasking at its best.

          • Anon

            +1. Turning on some music helps me get motivated to cook (also works for cleaning).

            Regarding changing your routine, don’t try to change everything at once; that’s where it gets overwhelming. Pick one thing you want to change, and start with that (e.g. I will cook dinner every Monday/Wednesday/Friday). Once you’ve gotten into a new routine with that thing, add something else. Part of this is feeling like your whole.life. is a disorganized mess and it’s way too overwhelming to change it all.

      • associate

        are you me?

        I’ve been dealing with this for as long as I can remember. I have so much self-loathing and disappointment about it, and yet I can never seem to change.

        • emeralds

          Sending internet hugs to everyone feeling this way. Anon at 11:09 above has great advice.

          But also…be kind to yourself. No one is perfect and no one makes the quote right unquote choices all the time. Not cooking dinner every night (or even some nights)/working out/[insert idealized-self behavior here] is not a character flaw.

      • anon-oh-no

        for me, the working out thing is a big deal. unlike when i was younger, i realized the ONLY way i was going to work out was if i paid for classes (like pay for the individual class and not just a gym membership) and had to sign up in advance. That way, when my alarm goes off at 5:30 or 6 am, i cant just turn it off and skip the class.

        And I like to run in the warmer months, so i joined “gym pact” so that I have $$ on the line for that as well. You have to use the runkeeper app to make running count, which i found has its own very motivating tools.

        If you dont want to pay extra for working out (like option 1 above), gym pact is a good option. So long as you keep your pact, it doesnt cost you anything (you can set your pact for as many days a week as you want and put the $$ amount at whatever you need to be motivating). Plus, you earn a little bit of $$ from the other folks who blow their pact.

      • Anne Shirley

        Some things that make my life better: my office tea cup, a spritz of perfume, nice body wash, putting earrings on. I’m happiest when I focus on all the little things that bring me happiness.

      • Anonymous

        I have struggled with this often myself, and continue to. At one point, I got so frustrated that I sat down and created a list of all of the things I wanted to accomplish on a daily, weekly, monthly, annual, and other basis. It is very detailed, down to “take Vitamin D, fish oil, and Rx,” “Clarisonic face,” “floss,” etc. on a daily basis. Then I created a notebook with a page for each date with a detailed checklist, along with a weekly “to do” page that allows me to make a list of additional items I need to do that particular week. It has schedules for home maintenance, car maintenance, health maintenance, etc. It also includes an ideal daily schedule and incorporates a morning and evening routine into it. I have found it incredibly helpful. There are days I don’t/can’t stick to it, but it has certainly made some things second nature and improved my routine, which was really the goal. And now I know when I should make an oil change appointment, or schedule the termite inspector, or get my teeth cleaned, so I ignore those things far less often than I used to.

        • Portia

          I started doing something like this too as my 2014 new year’s resolution, but I assign a monetary value to each thing on the list (flossing is worth 10 cents, while working out is worth two cents a minute and making that terrible phone call at work I’ve been putting off might be worth $5.00). I make myself earn all of my fun spending money (clothes, jewelry, nail polish, etc.). It’s been a really helpful motivator and has had the unexpected benefit of helping me change my mental focus from stewing about all the things I didn’t get done to recognizing how much I have accomplished.

        • Anonymous

          I did the same thing! I bought the “Routines” app for my phone (It is the one by Coopla- $2 well spent), and it reminds me to turn my mattress, replace my toothbrush, clean the oven etc. All the things that I don’t want on my calendar or reminders, but need a nudge to remember to do every few months. I feel like a real member of society when I remember to do these adult things!

    • emeralds

      Happiness would be taking the time to snuggle my puppy, or drive her to the park instead of just running or walking in my neighborhood (especially now that it’s getting marginally nicer!). Also, good coffee in the morning; packing a healthy and tasty lunch to eat at my desk; and a nice glass of wine when I get home.

      Efficiency would be showering and planning my outfits the night before, instead of struggling with it in the morning.

      • Cb

        Showering the night before is key. I like the clear separation it provides (you’ve showered and put your jammies on, that means no more work) and a bit of non-plugged in time with my partner to talk about our day.

    • KC

      Working out makes me happier as well. I love zoning out for an hour while I run or lift. It’s my zen time.

      More efficient: I brush my teeth while showering and pack my lunch every night before bed (if I’m really being efficient, I’ll pack M-W over the weekend). All non-immediate tasks/things I’m likely to forget about are added to my Google calendar with reminders. Everything from purchasing birthday gifts (2 weeks before the date) to pulling my credit report three times a year is scheduled, often with a recurring event if possible.

    • MJ

      Happier: 1) An amazing cup of tea or a delish hot chocolate to start my day (once I get where I am going). I am currently obsessed with Too Soul Tea Company’s Relaxing Mint which is an herbal blend of lavender, chamomile and a few types of mint. SO GOOD! This is a little routine that makes easing into my day that much nicer. 2) I have started packing nice fruit or crudité for myself for an afternoon snack, and I swear that it’s so much better than whatever I used to eat…it’s a treat to have a lovely bunch of grapes or whatnot in the afternoon to look forward to as well!

      More efficient: I make a mental checklist of morning must-dos the night before, and, if necessary, add post-its to the back of my door or on my laptop so I don’t forget something important the next day. It can be anything from “Take out Trash” to “Make XYZ appt”. I am not a Day-Planner/GoogCal girl because I am not in the habit of checking them, but if I have a post-it, I am good to go.

    • Clementine

      Happier and More Efficient, SIMULTANEOUSLY-

      One of the things I really enjoy is watching the Daily Show. I also have boring, adult things I need to do in the kitchen each day (ie, clear dishwasher, pack lunch, put away dishes, etc.) and have made myself a deal that I ONLY get to watch the Daily Show while doing these kitchen things.

      I suddenly find myself looking forward to doing dishes and washing my countertops. I just put it on my Laptop and watch/listen while doing my other routine things.

      This makes me suddenly remember that I didn’t start the dishwasher this morning (no daily show on weekend- I had to go with listening to a Podcast today).

    • The Extern

      Taking a vitamin D supplement everyday has made me much, much happier. I’m not usually a natural remedy person, but I really recommend this to anyone feeling blue — especially this winter!

      • PolyD

        You know, my gyn wrote me a prescription for weekly vitamin D supplements. I thought it was silly, but figured no harm taking them. I have to say, I have felt in a much better mood this winter than I usually do. There are other things that also could be playing a role, but I am seriously considering looking into OTC supplements to keep taking after the prescription is finished.

    • roses

      One thing I wish I could do every day that makes me happier is to spend at least 20 minutes outside. Not always possible due to weather (I don’t think I’d actually be happier if it was 20 minutes in the rain)/work, but I feel so much better about life when I walk to work or go for a run outside.

    • Famouscait

      Happier: walking my dog, sitting on the floor and rubbing his tummy, scratching behind his ears… really anything related to the doggy. =)

      Efficient: I try to prep all fresh produce at once. So if I’ve bought a head of cauliflower, green beans and zucchini for meals trough out the week, I try to spend one session cleaning, chopping and cutting the vegetables. This makes them easier to use for dinner throughout the week. I also do something similar with salads, which I assemble for lunches, and then just add the toppings (which are pre-chopped) in the morning before I leave the house.

    • CKB

      I try to do some type of workout every day.

      I also took the time to figure out a great breakfast for me to eat at work. It took some trial & error, but overnight oats with frozen berries on top, made the night before & grabbed on my way out the door to eat at work gets me off to a good start.

      This year especially I’ve been trying to figure out what foods I eat (and usually overeat) that make me feel icky, and make a note so I can stay away from them. Feeling healthy makes me happy.

      Besides making breakfast the night before, I’m still working on the efficiency thing, beyond having a morning routine & sticking to it no matter what so I get out the door on time.

    • Miz Swizz

      Happier: Listening to Pandora at work. My current station is a mix of Doris Day, Burt Bacharach, Henry Mancini, Dionne Warwick and Madeleine Peyroux. It’s great for work because it’s gently upbeat and I don’t have to worry about people coming into my office and hearing the music.

      Efficient: Using the same bag everyday for work. I don’t waste time changing purses and inevitably forgetting things in the switch. It’s been a great timesaver.

    • Middle Coast

      My countdown app. It sounds stupid but I enjoy counting down the days till evernts in my life makes me happy – e.g. my birthday is 02:12:40 minutes away! First possible day I can take early retirement: 49:11:40 minutes away!

    • Manhattanite

      Happier… Spending an hour being silly with my toddler.

      More efficient… Having more work to do and having a deadline looming.

    • hoola hoopa

      Efficiency: Streamlining lunch prep. I pack the night before and developed a routine meal.

      Happiness: Every 2-4 weeks I leave work early to pick my oldest up from school and we do some sort of activity just the two of us. I really don’t get one-on-one time with her otherwise, and all our interactions seemed to be when I was stressed out over something else (cooking dinner, managing toddler tantrum, etc). It’s been so wonderful for our relationship!

    • ExcelNinja

      Happier…I bike to & from work. It’s only a 10-15 minute ride but it makes me so happy to be out in the sunshine and getting exercise. I definitely notice a dip in my mood when I don’t bike.

      More efficient…omelettes for breakfast every morning. I pre-chop all the veggies on Sunday so they’re ready to just sprinkle in.

    • TCFKAG

      Happier – my daily snuggles with one or both of my dogs. Bonus points if the husband is involved and then its family cuddle time and it allows me to just feel really loved.

      Efficient – god right now I don’t feel like I do ANYTHING that helps with my efficiency, but I try to, when I sit at my desk in the morning, everything I’m going to want or need to get through my morning so I’m not getting up and down too much and gather it all at once. I also started using an app called List Master and I like it a lot for keeping track of things that require me to track things like volunteer hours.

  6. Anon

    How do you wear a black jacket (like this one or something similar) with an item like the Skirt? I have the Skirt in black and I think it would look like I thought I was wearing a suit if I were to wear a simple black blazer with it. What do other people wear to avoid this problem?

    • AnonInfinity

      I wouldn’t wear a black jacket with a plain black skirt or pants. You can wear it with a herringbone or a bottom that’s a different color to make sure it doesn’t look like a mismatched suit.

    • Killer Kitten Heels

      I don’t wear same-colored blazers and skirts unless they’re an intentional suit, because I don’t think I’ve ever figured this out/seen it done “well,” so I’m interested to see what folks suggest.

    • J Crew Schoolboy Blazer -- good alternative?

      I was thinking of wearing it with my tan Skirt. I agree that black would not look right. Maybe something black with a very different weave (boucle? sweater jacket?), but not this.

    • Diana Barry

      Ditto, I don’t wear separate blazer-and-skirt in the same color. I would wear a black blazer with just about any other color, though.

      I have a schoolboy blazer in herringbone (camel/brown/navy) tweedy fabric and it is a bit boxy/stiff, but the other fabrics may be less so.

    • ss

      I really dislike the harsh contrast between black and everything else (colours or print) and only really wear it with off-white. Navy is a much more useful neutral.

      • anon-oh-no

        I totally get what you mean — I dont love black with most dark colors or red. I have found, though, that if i mix in a third color, it works — either another neutral or a contrasting color/print. Like tan slacks with a white blouse and a black blazer would work. Or a grey skirt with a coral blouse and a black blazer. i’d probably add a fun neckless or scarf too.

          • Kontraktor

            Ugh, sorry, I pressed report mistakenly instead of reply. Please don’t remove the comment above :-(

            Anyway, was just going to say I LOVE this palette and have been wearing it too much lately

          • Another MZ Wallace Fan

            Throw in a leopard belt and that’s what I’m wearing today. Black blazer, camel pants, white silk blouse and leopard belt.

      • CKB

        I know what you mean. I find I reach for my grey clothes way more often than my black ones. Grey is also not as harsh as black & a great neutral.

      • TBK

        Black + bright color reads very ’90s to me. When I interviewed for my first job out of college in 1999, I wore a black suit with a French blue shirt (collar spread over the jacket collar, of course). That or similar combinations look so dated to me.

      • anonymama

        I sometimes really like the sharp contrast black can give, particularly with brights like cobalt. I think the key is also having a third color in there, like gray or cream. But black can also work with other neutrals, like camel or brown, or even navy, without having the sort of high contrast look you seem to dislike. But I also tend to have black as a go-to because I like my black shoes the best, and have the easiest time coordinating other colors with it.

    • TCFKAG

      I would wear a black blazer like this (which is clearly not a “basic” black blazer) with a black skirt if the skirt has a texture or pattern. Like I have “the skirt” with a kind of leather-ish texture and they go well enough together. I don’t know if I agree with others about mixing black with a bright color – like say the bright green that was so popular this past year, especially as they say if you mix in a third color. I also LOVE black with darker jewel tones, like burgundy or hunter green.

      So after years of only allowing myself to buy navy or other colors as neutrals and really cutting back on black in my wardrobe, I’ve recently bought a bunch of black items I really like. But I still prefer navy overall, no matter what.

  7. Polished Pinstripes

    I really love this blazer. I definitely would not wear it with black pants/skirt – I think it would look much better with a contrasting bottom. The v-neckline is lovely for showing off a necklace. Plus, I think the jacket is interesting enough that you could wear it with jeans and heels on the weekend.

    http://www.polishedpinstripes.com

  8. Paging TCFKAG

    Hello and help! It seems that many of us need you this morning to find budget-friendly alternatives to this that we can wear with skirts (esp. The Skirt) and something like a sheath dress.

    Crossing my fingers . . .

  9. mascot

    Anxiety Threadjack: Suggestions for dealing with days when you feel particularly anxious? Not sure what is going on today, but I feel generally on edge. Any tips for getting past it?
    I already exercise regularly, sleep well, eat clean, limit caffeine, etc. My job is fairly stressful, but I don’t have a ton of deadlines right now. Could it be hormonal?

    • Frugal doc..

      Have you tried relaxation techniques? Do a search for “mindfulness” online… I think Harvard even has an online course/lecture series. Yoga might be a good addition to your exercise routine.

      Limiting caffeine is key. Maybe your morning coffee needs to change to 1/2 decaf.

      5 minute power nap.

      Sure, hormones can exacerbate, but a lot of it is just us – our genetics/development! Some of us are just more anxious then others. That can help us prepare to flee from the tiger about to eat us in the jungle (or perhaps be on the ready for a new problem/issue at work), but it is clearly draining and not healthy in the long term if it is constant.

      • mascot

        Thanks. Maybe a meditation session at lunch will calm it down. And maybe some sunshine.

    • Ellen

      Yay! Splurge Monday’s! I love Splurge Monday’s and this blazer. There is a BERGDORF near me that I can walk to at work, but it is a littel far so I don’t go there except on Weekend’s.

      As for the OP, whenever I get a littel stressed in the morning or at night, I alway’s brew a pot of CHAI or PEPPERMINT TEA. I find that it calm’s me down (and make’s me go to the bathroom, which by the way is also a good thing). Lateley, I am stresseing over my future, and my need to have a baby, b/c Willem is #1 on the list, but I am not sure I want to have to sleep with him. He is a good freind and profesional, but Myrna think’s he is to stiff for me, and would NOT apreaciate my sense of humer.

      Sam, on the other hand apreciate’s me but he has bad dental care in the UK and I do NOT want to have to live there. Why cant I find a USA guy to marry me and live right here in NY or LI? Why do I atract these guy’s from other countrie’s? There must be ladie’s over there for Willem and Sam, so why do they want me instead? I know I must be different for them and that is why, Myrna says, but she seem’s to have mostly USA guys to date, tho she did meet some guy’s doing the triatholon from somewhere else who wanted to have sex with her. FOOEY!

      One of the’se day’s I will find a US Citizen who is decent who I can sleep with and who will MARRY me and suport me and our children. Why is that so dificult? I think I should make a pot of tea now, but I have to prepare for an EBT. FOOEY!

    • IT Chick in MN

      Having an anxiety disorder, I have an entire stable of techniques for days when I’m feeling anxious. :) My current favorite quick one requires a trip to somewhere private, because you are going to look rather silly while doing it. However, I’ve successfully done this in a bathroom stall in a pinch.

      This is to be done sitting down. Inhale fully through your nose. Tighten your feet and lower legs as much as you can without tensing the rest of your body (this took a bit of practice). Breath out as completely as possible while you maintain this tension. Relax and inhale fully.

      Do this again while tensing your legs and behind.
      Do it again while tensing your legs, behind, and torso (but not your arms or head).
      Do it again while tensing all but your face or head.
      Do it one final time while tensing every muscle in your body.

      I have to be careful to make sure I tense only as long as it takes to breath out as completely as possible.

      This leaves me feeling more relaxed yet energized at the same time.

    • Been There

      When I get super anxious and can’t really figure out the cause, I sometimes go back to what the my first therapist told me nearly 10 years ago: close your eyes, breathe in deeply through your nose, hold it for 10 seconds, and just concentrate on one thing. (At the time, the only thing I could reliably concentrate on was the number “1.” I still do that.) I repeat for five minutes until I feel a bit better — even if this means doing it in the bathroom or in my car. Also: taking a walk outside for 5 minutes. Writing everything (everything!) down that’s bothering me and then splitting the stuff into columns of “can fix it” (like getting the laundry done) and “can’t fix it” (like the unrest in the Middle East). Sometimes, simply accepting that I’m anxious and telling my husband that I am helps. He reminds me it’s OK, to give myself a break and that it’ll pass.

    • momentarily anonymous

      I have a specific song I listen to. It’s basically forced meditation. I just shut my office door, put my headphones on, and listen to the song for 3 minutes and focus on the song and on shutting out whatever crazy is happening in my head.

    • anon anxiety sufferer

      I find taking a walk around the block to clear my head helps.

      Also, if it gets really severe, you might consider getting a prescription that you can take if you are having a particularly tough day, such as ativan. I resisted medication for a long time, but then went through a pretty rough patch and got a prescription. I found that I hardly ever took it (less than 10 times in the course of the year), but knowing that it was there if I needed it actually helped tremendously.

  10. Possible dupe

    I love this blazer and it reminds me of one I got from trouvé. The styling is annoying in these photos but the jacket has a very similar sleek shape and hook and eye closure in the front.

    I got the blue which is a great color, dark enough to read navy and conservative but distinct enough from black to be able to mix the two colors with confidence.

    It’s also only $118.

    http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/trouve-structured-jacket/3530837?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=Black&resultback=1541&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_5_D

  11. Ciao, pues

    TJ: Federal Jobs Application

    I am applying for an attorney position with a federal agency via USAJOBS, the federal jobs website. The application only asks for a resume and a writing sample. There is no mention of a cover letter, but there is a section for uploading other documents, with this instruction: USAJOBS allows your application for employment maximum flexibility by giving you the ability to have up to 10 attachments along with your resume such as: DD-214, SF-15, SF-50, OF-306, Transcripts or other types of documents.

    1. Should I include a cover letter as an attachment? My gut says yes, but I know they streamline these things for a reason and perhaps only ask for resume and writing sample because that’s all they want. I would hate to be dinged for not following instructions.
    2. There are no guidelines for the writing sample (length, format, etc.). Suggestions? I’m thinking under ten pages, topical, with a brief cover letter (paragraph) explaining the context.

    thanks!

    • roses

      That’s a tough call, but I think go with your gut and include the cover letter. At worst I think they just wouldn’t look at it – I don’t think they’ll ding you for it, and there’s the chance that they actually expect one and just forgot to put it in the posting. I think your plan for a writing sample sounds great – the more relevant to the agency or the type of work you’ll be doing (i.e., a brief if it’s appellate, a motion if it’s trial work), the better.

    • TBK

      Include the cover letter with the attachments. I also think your instincts on the writing sample are exactly right. General piece of advice for applying through USAJobs — the competition right now is ferocious. Some of the s*xier agencies get 800-1,200 applications per vacancy. Much as we’d all like federal hiring to be free from nepotism, the truth is that knowing someone really helps. If you haven’t already, consider reaching out to your network to see if you know anyone at the agency who can pass along your resume with a recommendation (in addition to applying through the web site, of course). It might be the only way anyone at the agency actually sees your application.

      • A+

        Yep, I just landed a federal job this way. After I submitted my application through USAJobs, my contact talked to the hiring officials, putting in a good word for me. I’m pretty sure they would not have given me a second look without the plug from my contact.

        • rosie

          I get the impression they might not have even given you a first look. It’s not that you aren’t qualified, but with 1000+ applicants, they sort by prior federal experience or something like that, and your application might just not make it in front of a real person ever unless you have someone who can flag it.

    • KLG

      Use words/phrases from the job description in your cover letter/resume. It should help get it through some of the initial machine screening (although like someone said, prior fed experience is more likely to do that).

  12. AnonyRantingPants

    Ladies, I just have to vent about the term “Vanity Sizes.” I’m not quite sure why I dislike the term so much. In the past ten years, I’ve ranged between sizes 10-16. In my experience (and I think others have mentioned this before), “vanity sizing” has not happened at this upper end of the spectrum. JCrew size 14 is no bigger now than it was 5 or 10 years ago (well, that is, when you can find a JCrew size 14 to try on). A few companies do tend to run larger than others (Lands End, being a great example), which means that those of us at the upper end of the spectrum of non-plus size clothes (size 14-18), can fit into their regular clothes. I guess I always thing “Am I vain for wanting to fit into regular clothes? Am I vain for wishing I could wear JCrew clothes?” Plus I think it does a disservice to us all, to think we are so concerned with that number that companies change their sizes just so we can celebrate “yes, I’m a 4 now, not a 6! I must be a success in life!!” I’ll end my rant now. Maybe I’m alone in this? I just wish there was another term we could use.

    • Em

      No, you’re not the only one. I think the term “vanity sizing” basically serves as a way to mock and discredit women for thinking they might possibly be “good enough,” ever. “Don’t forget, fatty! Just because you fit into a size 6 doesn’t mean you’re thin! VANITY SIZING! Also you’re vain and shallow for caring at all!!!”

      • Anonymous

        Yes this bugs me. I’m on the lower end of the spectrum and range from a 2 to a 6 depending on the store. It’s annoying when you have been working out and feel good about yourself and buy something in a lower size and then have someone tell you VANITY SIZING! You’re actually fatter than you think!

    • AnonInfinity

      ITA. Someone posted a link on here long ago that was an article written by someone purportedly from the fashion industry in which the author explained why sizes change from season to season. It’s not that some places are engaging in a conspiracy to make women think they are smaller than they are. Instead, the manufacturers use a number as the average size of the garments they sold the previous season and assign numbers to smaller and larger sizes from there.

      • Former retail

        That’s interesting, but my experience was that inconsistency in sizing was nothing more than brands using multiple factories, and those factories not following the requested measurements.

      • hoola hoopa

        This. Both of them.

        The article was probably by Fashion Incubator. She works in fashion manufacturing and had a great article about it.

    • Anne Shirley

      I chose to interpret the vanity at the other end of the scale. We aren’t making size 14 bigger to accommodate the vanity of size 16 ladies, we’re making size 2 bigger so those ladies can be happily size 0.

      I understand it’s a problem to be too small to buy clothes in a regular retail store, which is why people complain, but I’m never quite sure why that complaint is more valid than people who are happy sizes have gotten big enough that they can.

      • Monday

        It’s valid for anyone to be annoyed at not being able to find clothes that fit, for any reason! I think the OP’s complaint is about the term “vanity” being applied to delusions of being smaller at any point on the size spectrum, though–equally applicable to those who find themselves in a 0 as to those wearing a 14. The constant is the premise that thinner is better.

    • Diana Barry

      I think the problem is INCONSISTENT sizing over time, which has mostly been toward making the number on the garment smaller rather than larger…and because media/culture is all about SMALLER IS BETTER, then of course it would be called “vanity” sizing rather than “inconsistent” sizing. Sigh.

    • Mpls

      Can we call it clothing size adjustment? For women, size numbers are completely arbitrary any way, and only there to give a point of reference as to whether a garment is bigger or smaller than another one. It’s not like a size 10 has been the same set of measurement for all time in all places.

      Actually, it’s kind of interesting to look at the measurements on sewing patterns – those are more consistent (at least for the big companies) – the measurements for each size are the same as they were 40 years ago (comparing today’s patterns to my mom’s old ones). And that’s the one place I’ve maybe seen size adjustment on the larger end. So that a 36″ bustline is a size 14 on the pattern, and maybe a 10 or 12 in ready to wear. But even there, the body measurements that line up with each size are only standard for the Big 4 pattern companies. Smaller, independent pattern producers play with those dimensions as their demographic demands.

    • snowy

      I wish sizes were accurate in terms of waist size – then there would be no vanity about it, you could have a size 24 waist for tiny people, and size 33 waist for the not so tiny, and just use your actual measurement to find something that fit you without feeling all “omg! I’m a 0! I’m so tiny!”

      Sadly, even this I find not to be accurate (at least in jeans). If I want something to fit and not fall off my hips after two hours I have to buy 2-3 inches smaller than my measured waist size, which seems like another sneaky form of “vanity” sizing.

      • NOLA

        I just don’t think that works – especially for jeans! I do not have a very well-defined waist but I have narrow hips and thighs (basically straight up and down, but a bit more waist definition than that implies). What works at my waist size for a pear-shape would absolutely not work for me. I tried on several pairs of jeans last Saturday and left totally defeated. Everything that fit in the waist was totally baggy on my thighs. I have found exactly one style of jeans that fit me.

        • TBK

          Yep. I’m that pear with a relatively tiny waist and big old hips (backside) and thighs. I have to get jeans that are about 3″ bigger than my actual waist size to even get them on. I realize I should just take my jeans to a tailor to have that giant gap in the back waist taken in, but I still tend think that jeans = casual = inexpensive. Even though I know jeans have evolved way past that.

      • Diana Barry

        The best solution would be to have 3 measurements – waist, hip, inseam – that way pants could be sized like men’s except with the added hip measurement, and it would be SO MUCH EASIER and easier to standardize!

        • L

          I’ll go one further, if they could include the length of measurement from where the garment sits on your natural waist to your hips. Then you can go hey, this will work on my since I’m short, but have a long torso versus short, but have long legs. GAH.

          A girl can dream

          • TCFKAG

            I’m not sure this would be possible since everyone’s natural waist hits at a different point. They might be able to give a guesstimate based on the average natural waist to hips measurement of short waisted women, medium waisted women, and long waisted women.

            But yeah – this is so individualized that I don’t see how its possible – Unless I’m misunderstanding what you’re describing.

      • Ellie

        Yes, true … but that reminds me, it’s also more a problem how reliable those sizes are. Even in jeans with sizes that shall give a proper measurement, I have found some fit larger, some smaller although they all have the same size label. So a jeans size of W 25 or whatever doesn’t mean that much as well. I think, some of that could be said of regular clothing sizes as well.

    • Susedna

      My own term for the inconsistency in sizing is: “floating exchange rate.” Also, acknowledging that it’s a shared collective delusion, like fiat money. So, “fiat sizing.”

      • Silvercurls

        LOL, especially because your term also describes my own private personal experience with “inconsistency in sizing.” (Nicely sidesteps judgement underlying language such as “weight loss/weight gain.”)

    • Anonymous

      Well “Vanity Sizing” irritates me because I used to be a size 0/2 at places like J Crew. And now I can’t shop there because everything is too big on me and they don’t make smaller sizes. The obvious solution to this is just make bigger sizes on the higher end, without changing the number labeling. Instead of making everything bigger, just add size 16, 18, 20, etc. That way people like me aren’t squeezed out of the size range by trend towards more people being overweight.

      • Anonymous

        That’s the OP’s point is that a size 12, 14 hasn’t gotten measureably bigger… the vanity sizing is the middle of the range. So they’re shifting a 4 to a 2, and squeezing out the original 2 or 0 by doing so, but they didn’t enlarge the 14 to allow bigger people to wear standard sizes.

  13. Skeet Shooting

    I’m going skeet shooting at a conference next weekend. Has anyone done this? What does one wear while skeet shooting? I was thinking of just skinny jeans, boots, and a sweater. I just want to make sure I won’t look like a weirdo in that outfit. And do I need to be concerned about getting dirty?

    • Susedna

      Definitely amp aying attention to this thread… as I’m a very non-outdoorsy person and would so love to go skeet shooting one day, but would also like to not look like/act like Billy Crystal’s character in “City Slickers.”

    • Senior Attorney

      I have nothing to add, but OMG now I totally want to go skeet shooting!!

      • AnonInfinity

        I know! I’ve always wanted to, so I’m quite excited. Just in case it becomes my new passion (which obviously it will), I’ve already found some clubs in my area where I could go every weekend if I wanted.

    • Anonymous

      I’ve been! Your outfit sounds fine, if sweater’s arms are somewhat close fitting. If it’s going to be at all cold (we did it in February), you’ll want thin gloves to try to stay warm.

    • lhh

      That outfit is fine, especially since you will be at a confrence. I’d make sure your boots are flat because shotguns do have a kick to them.

      Have fun!

    • Anonattorney

      That sounds great! Wear a sleek sweater – not too bulky and nothing flowing. Also, make sure your hair is pulled off your face.

    • trap gal

      I think that’s fine. Definitely wear shoes that you can stand firmly in. You might get dirty if the ground is muddy, but not really otherwise. They should have eye and ear protection for you. I don’t think it’s such an active activity, so dress warmly enough if the weather is chilly (dress like you’ll be doing a lot of standing around).

    • IT Chick in MN

      IMPORTANT tip! Wear a sports bra!

      To avoid fantastically painful and colorful bruising, do NOT wear a bra with a buckle/adjuster in the front.

      This lesson learned the painful way. :)

    • Skeet Shooting

      Thanks so much for the good advice! I’m absurdly excited about this activity.

      • Anonattorney

        I love shooting hunting rifles and shotguns. Not so much pistols and assault rifles–that whole “instrument of human death” thing kind of ruins it for me.

    • wow

      I am surprised by the number of people here interested in shooting. And even more surprised that this activity would be offered at a conference.

      • Anon

        Also wondering why you are surprised. I really enjoy it (and enjoy what anonattorney doesn’t).

      • anonymama

        I don’t think there are really any ethical qualms about target shooting, and it seems like an activity that would have enough novelty to interest people, while also not requiring vast amounts of physical activity or specialized equipment. The only time I have been skeet shooting was actually within that bastion of liberal values, the city of San Francisco.

        • TCFKAG

          OOPS, I reported your post anonymama – so sorry.

          But I agree with you – I think the reason that skeet shooting *specifically* is so fascinating to people is the reason people like paint ball and laser tag – its a way to “play” with guns without any ethical concerns whatsoever. Its a way people can use a gun or play war games without having to, you know, kill anything or anyone.

          And skeet shooting – as opposed to the other two – uses a real gun and sort of closely imitates hunting without any ethical qualms whatsoever (which whether right or wrong – some people have). So I don’t know, its a cool sounding activity that’s outside the “normal” daily life of most people. I think its pretty perfect for a conference activity.

          My favorite work trip activity ever was called WhirlyBall and is exclusive to Chicago I think. It is too difficult to describe, but you should google it. Basically, I got to hit people at high speeds with bumper cars while scoring basketball shots but with whiffle balls in a jai lai like scoop. So um – yeah – think outside the box for conference activities! It doesn’t always have to be wine tasting.

    • JBB

      My dad’s a competitive clay shooter, and I’ve been dozens of times. I typically wear jeans, running shoes, and a shooting shirt (which is a button-down with a pad in the shoulder). I’ve never been to a range that hasn’t been kind of “out-in-the-country”, so not sure if this applies or not to you, but if you wear make-up, nails, skinnies, fashion boots, etc. you will probably be the only one. Oh, and I use a shooting belt, not a vest (just preference). But you’ll need one or the other to hold shells.

    • TCFKAG

      I would just try to dress like when Mary Crawley and the other ladies accompanied the men hunting. Plaid, skinny jeans, boots of some kind (I think maybe mid sized instead of knee high…if you have them), A cape.

      I’m sort of kidding, I think your outfit looks great, but seriously – Mary Crawley always looked amazing during the outdoorsy activity/hunting scenes.

    • AttiredAttorney

      Don’t forget a pair of sunglasses so you can avoid the gross goggles most places will make you rent if you don’t bring your own eye protection. Also, if you have a pair of earplugs, bring them, or be prepared to buy there.

  14. anon

    Has anyone every gone through a business/personal bankruptcy? I think my husband’s business may be heading for bankruptcy. How do I prepare for this? Other than the impact of the business, our finances are otherwise in order, e.g., we aren’t behind on credit card payments (usually carry a zero balance) or the like. Feel like screaming but I guess I have to keep it together for the kids.

    • Mpls

      Definitely talk to an experienced bankruptcy lawyer. Business (or non-consumer debt) bankruptcies probably aren’t as disruptive as a personal bankruptcy with lots of consumer (credit card/car loan/mortgage) type debt. But because there are certain deadlines and lookback periods involved with the financial snapshot you have to include (the means test), you’ll want to consult with someone familiar with those about 2 to 4 months prior to actually filing.

    • Silvercurls

      YUCK. I would feel like screaming also. Hugs and the usual general advice: take care of yourself and “if you’re going through Hell, keep going.” (Winston Churchill.) My grandfather used to say it’s only money, meaning it’s not a medical crisis or worse. He didn’t face bankruptcy but he knew about tight finances.
      Obviously I don’t know all the details so YMMV, but if you can be supportive to your husband…I was going to say he will appreciate it; I’ll amend it to say that I hope he will appreciate it. Sometimes sh!t just happens.
      This site is here for venting. I recommend adding a venting person not in cyberspace (and maybe not yr husband).

  15. Lekue

    Has anyone tried the Lekue microwave dishes for “cooking” lunches at work? I get bombarded with SLT e-mails on them, and I’m getting a little bored with my current lunch staple of leftover pasta (because it reheats easily), so I’m curious if anyone has found these dishes to work well for say, steam-microwaving a chicken breast at lunch.

    • IT Chick in MN

      We have the rectangular steamer at home, and it works fabulously. I’ve only used it for veggies, but I think it would be worth trying a chicken breast. They clean up nicely and work really well.

  16. TBK - HoC fashion

    Does anyone know where to find that fantastic dress of Jackie Sharp’s – the one with the sort of soft fold across the neckline, belt, small slit on the front/side, and just slightly lower neckline in the back. It’s beautiful! I’m sure it’s designer something out of my price range but very curious about it.

  17. Halogen Suiting

    Does anyone wear Halogen’s suiting (e.g. Ela Suit Jacket and related pieces)? I am beyond frustrated with trying to find a replacement for a wool suit and even though this is not wool, I could see getting it just because Halogen stuff usually fits and it is so hard to even find decent wool suits any more (especially with lined pants). I’m just worried that it will look cheap or young or something else. But I’m starting to run out of options (struck out at JCrew, Banana, Talbots).

    • KT

      So I bought a halogen skirt suit during the anniversary sale this past summer. I have clothes that range from size 0-6, and in this suit I was a regular 2 in the jacket and a regular 2 in the skirt. The sleeves werre about a half inch too long but otherwise it fits near perfectly. For reference I am a 34a and I am 5’5″. I have 38 inch hips though and the size 2 on bottom surprised me… Maybe the skirt runs a little big. I hope this helps!

    • Maudie Atkinson

      I bought the Halogen diamond stitch suiting (jacket, skirt, pants) in December, and I’ve been very happy with the set. The pants (Taylor) aren’t lined, alas, but everything fits and hangs nicely, and I didn’t need alterations except to have the pants hemmed. I found that it fit TTS for me. I’ve grown especially fond of the pants.
      The jacket I bought had a slight peplum to the bottom, which might make it read a little young (or dated), but it’s a pretty subtle silhouette. And nothing else about the suiting would make it read young or cheap, I don’t think. In fact, my husband, whose taste and style are generally more exacting than my own, remarked that looked great.

    • Bonnie

      I have 2 Halogen suits and they have held up really well; just as well as ones from more expensive lines.

  18. Anon

    Any recommendations for a laser hair removal place near Baltimore? Also, what’s the going price for bikini area and underarms? I’ve decided that I am just done with shaving.

    • LilyB

      I’d look out for a groupon. I’ve gotten a pack of 6 sessions (you’ll need about 10 to get 100% hair removal though) for around $300 using groupon.

      Also, before you shell out the $, make sure you’re a good candidate- good skin to hair color ratio. Light(er) skin and dark(er) hair work best… I have an african american friend for whom it was a waste, as well as a light-skinned, red-haired friend who also didn’t get great results.

      • LilyB

        should have mentioned, the $300 price was for full brazilian. you can get 6 sessions for $100-200 for underarms/non-brazilian bikini.

        • Anon

          Great, thanks! I’m a perfect candidate – brunette with pale skin- so I am hopeful that it’ll work.

          • Anon Calif atty

            Be sure to very carefully check the creditentials of the person doing the work – here in Calif. there have been horrific injuries inflicted in very delicate places by non-certified, non-medically trained personnel using lasers for hair removal. You should check the license of the medical professional, esp. to look for any reported problems.

  19. Moving

    I need to move a few items of large furniture from DC to SC, back to my parents’ house. Is there a way to have them added to someone else’s (large) moving truck, for a fee? Anyone ever tried something like this before? I have no idea where to start.

    • rosie

      I think this is the kind of thing U-Pack does. You fill however much of a truck you need, and then they put other stuff (might be commercial goods, not other residential move stuff) in the rest. I have not used it personally, but know others who liked using it. We didn’t use it because IIRC they do not give exact dates for pick up and delivery until you’re pretty close to the move–we needed more certainty further in advance, but if you have a little flexibility, that shouldn’t be a problem.

      • Moving

        I also need help loading and unloading on both ends. Seems like there’s got to be a company that does this?

        • TBK

          We used PODS for a long distance move and hired movers through U-haul’s website to load and unload. We were really happy with the movers we got — extremely hard-working, professional, and considerate guys.

        • rosie

          I think some moving companies will offer this service, or you can look on the U-Haul site as TBK suggests.

    • AEK

      I used MiniMoves for my post law-school cross-country move way back when. They do exactly what you propose— fitting your stuff into a non-full truck. The one thing I will say is do not use them if you have a strict deadline. They can’t (or at least back then they couldn’t) give you a precise date when your stuff will show up.
      I checked to see if they still exist, and it appears they have a “move furniture” option:
      http://www.minimoves.com/services/Moving-Furniture.html

    • Traveling with babies?

      Oh, this is a pain — we had to do it with a nice leather couch that my parents gifted us. It was about $800 to get it from NC to DC. We used Allied and since it was such a small job they subcontracted it out. I would definitely call an established moving company. You could probably get it done cheaper by a smaller company but it was worth it to us to have the peace of mind that the couch would be OK (it’s something of a family heirloom), the company wouldn’t pull any shenanigans with the billing, and the couch would arrive more or less when they said it would.

    • Anon

      Yes, your furniture can piggyback on another person’a larger shipment. Start by calling a mover that handles longer distance moves. Your delivery date may get pushed out further because they are waiting for a truck headed that way. I just did a cross country move this way. My stuff was 1/4 of the truck and it took 30 days.

  20. Spanish for Business?

    Hive: any recommendations for programs (extra points for online and low-cost) to learn basic Spanish for business? I support our company’s operations in parts of the Spanish-speaking world. I don’t need to know Spanish to do my job, but it would be helpful when I’m traveling and interacting with the business teams that do business mostly in that language. I studied French, so I’m not totally starting from scratch…but pretty close. TIA.

    • IT Chick in MN

      I’m currently enjoying using Duolingo for Spanish. I like that they have a website and an app. It also combines reading and spoken well.

      Important tip for the app- make sure you have downloaded a Spanish keyboard for your phone and know how to make the switch. You will switch often between typing in English and in Spanish.

      • rosie

        That’s a good tip on the keyboard. I am using Duolingo for French, and I think I’ve totally confused my autocorrect.

      • LH

        Thanks for the suggestion. I just downloaded DuoLingo to brush up on my very, very rusty high school French.

    • MommyMonster

      I like the podcast “Coffee Break Spanish” too. Between it and Duolingo I know more Spanish today than ever before, and I’ve stuck to the lessons.

  22. www.youtube.com

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