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Updated: Nov 1, 2018 176 Comments · by

Wednesday’s TPS Report: Cardigan with Tie Front

The Personal Shopper (TPS) |

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Jones New York Cardigan with Tie Front | CorporetteOur daily TPS reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices. Jones New York has a number of cute cardigans right now, and this long black one with camel accents looks chic yet cozy and wearable. It's hand-washable, and available in regular sizes — and plus sizes! — for $99 and $109, respectively. Jones New York Cardigan with Tie Front Seen a great piece you'd like to recommend? Please e-mail tps@corporette.com.

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Comments

  1. Burgundy leather pump recommendations?

    I’m looking for a wine/burgundy leather (not suede) pump with, ideally, a 2 1/2 inch heel. I think it might be really versatile for work this fall and winter. Definitely not taller than 2 3/4 inches. Pointed or almond toe OK.

  2. AnonCo

    I don’t love the size of the tie (between the width and the color it overwhelms the rest of the jacket), but I’m digging the pockets!

    • Red Beagle

      Reminds me of a karate top complete with belt. Cool outfit for that purpose, for work, not so much.

      • MJ

        Agree. I immediately thought “chic outfit for the dojo.” I am very curvy from waist to hip and this would be all wrong for me–I cannot wear wrap/tie anything, ever, without looking sloppy and misshapen….

      • LT IT

        +1 to the Karate Kid and similar comments. I’ve been busy this AM, just logged on and thought for a sec that I must be on the wrong site when I saw this.

    • hoola hoopa

      I could never in a million years pull this off. I would most certainly look like I was wearing a robe.

      But I have a coworker who could wear this to the office and look completely on point, professional, and so chic.

  3. Denver

    Love this cardigan!

    TJ: My husband and I will be in Denver Saturday and Sunday this weekend. We are staying on 16th Street downtown and we will not have a car so I am looking for recommendations for things to do downtown within walking distance of 16th Street (or anywhere the downtown shuttle goes). We would be willing to take very short cab rides. We aren’t into art, but would be interested in anything food/drinking/experience related and possibly some history stuff. Thanks in advance!

    • NYNY

      If you & your husband like beer, you’ll be in a great neighborhood for it. There are several brewpubs near Coors field, and Wynkoop is my favorite of the bunch. The Brown Palace hotel is beautiful and historic. They do an afternoon tea (polar opposite of the brewpub experience) which is lovely. And Steuben’s is a great fancified comfort food restaurant just a short trip east from where you’ll be.

    • Emm

      Check out the new Union Station (at the end of the 16th Street mall, opposite direction from the capitol building). It was just renovated and reopened over the summer. Lots of new restaurants/bars (I hear there is a place with alcohol-infused ice cream, but I haven’t been there yet). Snooze is great for breakfast food, just had it for lunch yesterday–yum!

    • Anonymous

      I live in Denver and one of my most favorite summer memories was riding B-Cycles (bicycles you rent on the side of the road that are kiosk style) from brewery to brewery. If you check the B-Cycle in at least every 20 minutes it doesn’t cost additional money. We rode to 9 different breweries over the course of an entire day, had a beer (or in my case a sampler) at each and then rode on to the next. There’s an app for B-Cycle so that you can see where the station are in relation to the breweries. We rode about 10 miles that day and it was a fabulous time.

      On another note – how are you getting from the airport to downtown? Unlike most larger cities, the cost of a cab rid from the airport to downtown is pretty ridiculous but you don’t really have a choice. It’s that or a city bus. I just wanted to give you a heads up. I think it would probably be around $60. I’ve never done it because I’ve always had my car so that’s definitely an estimate.

      • Denver

        My friend who lives there has a cab guy who will do one-way between downtown and the airport for $45. Thanks for all the tips!

    • Jordan

      Use uber if you need a ride. It is the cheapest way to get around as of now.

  4. Wildkitten

    This looks like a mix between a bathrobe and a karate jacket that looks like a bathrobe. I think the tie just kills it for me.

    • HSAL

      Yep. I like the idea of the camel accents, and it’s cute on the pockets, but the belt is a no-go.

    • so anon

      I have found similar items to be very tummy-enhancing, especially when viewed from the side.

    • not very bright

      Agree. This is hideous and all I can think is “low end hugh hefner smoking robe”

    • Ellen

      Yay! This was my thought’s exacteley! I think that men ALREADY try to disrobe us mentaly, but with this, they would go right away to loosen the tie, while telling us we are very beautiful.

      This is how Alan wormed his way into my life. The onley differnce there was that I was onley weareing my bathrobe, and did NOT even have anything on underneth, so when he did that, he saw absolutley EVERYTHING, and I was completeley open and vunlenerable to his sexueal advance. FOOEY b/c I should NEVER have let this happen, especialy in my OWN apartement. DOUBEL FOOEY! I still am paying the price of letting that happen. TRIPEL FOOEY!

      • Janet

        Ellen, I think you need to move on from Alan. Many of us on this site have also been screwed (literally as well as figuratively) by one or more of our ex’s, who either through what we thought were to become meaningful relationships or just one-night stands “wormed their way into our lives” (and hearts). It takes strength and resolve to move on to other men and our next relationships, which hopefully not be one-night stands, all in the hope that the next guy will be one that we can be comfortable with, both intellectually as well as sexually, and that they will not bamboozle us into a false sense of relationship through the use of cheap words like “you are so beautiful” as an excuse to get us to let down our guard (and robes). I am sure you will be successful and soon have a guy you can trust. But please, not the brother!

    • TO Lawyer

      Janet is right, Ellen. Take your own advice: just say FOOEY! and move on.

    • RR

      That was my first thought as well–where does “camel belt” fall in the karate belt hierarchy?

      That said, I don’t hate it.

      • Red Beagle

        Snort. Something about camel belt makes my mind go to camel toe – reads like a wardrobe malfunction.

      • Senior Attorney

        In Marine Corps Martial Arts the lowest belt is “tan.”

        Although they don’t wear traditional karate belts. It’s just your regular uniform belt in the appropriate color .

    • anon2b

      Agreed.

      That said, I’m looking for cute sweater-jacket (jacket alternative) that would be good for fall in a classy/upscale business casual environment (as opposed to a business casual environment where people wear very casual clothes). Any ideas from the hive?

  5. Peach Pye

    Like this look but disappointed that for $100 it is a synthetic fabric.

  7. YouSaucyMinx.com

    Egh. Not loving this. I don’t know if it’s the contrast or the cut, but it’s just very bathrobe.

    White House Black market has some super cute version, similar to this, with shawl collar and tie, that are way more flattering.

  9. houda

    Other than your regular business cards (company-issued), do you have a set of networking cards?
    Also, I have read somewhere that having your picture on a networking card makes you more memorable, would you go for this option?

    • Hildegarde

      I would not put my picture on a business/networking card. The few times I’ve seen people do this, I’ve always thought it makes the card look cheap, and the person look sales-y. Maybe this is because I’ve only seen it on the cards of people in sales-related jobs. In any case, I think it looks silly.

      I do not have any cards other than my business cards; my cell phone number is not on my business card, but if I want someone to have that number too I just write it on the card before I give it to them.

    • Red Beagle

      Unless you are a real estate agent, where photos seem to be de rigueur, I wouldn’t have a photo on the card. It’s a bit much to me to see a photo on a business card, but YMMV.

    • Mo

      I’m not sure advice on this s!te will be all that relevant to your networking b/c it will be US-centric. However, in my experience in the US, it would be unusual for someone who is currently employed in or ajacent to the field he/she is networking in to use a personal networking card. An exception might be someone who is employed but also does freelance projects.

      As for photos, those are really rare on US business cards – as in, I really only see them on real estate agents’ cards. Keep in mind that it is unheard of to submit a photo with a resume/job application in the US, unless you’re applying for a modeling or acting position. I know that’s not the case in much of Asia and parts of Europe – not sure about your country. If it’s expected that you would submit a photo with a resume, I would think it would be less strange to have a photo on your card.

      • houda

        Thanks, you are right. In my region, if you don’t have a picture on your resume, people start to assume you are hiding something.
        The guideline is better have a hideous ill-lit photo than none at all.

        Networking cards are not a thing in my country (networking in general is not) this is why I am specifically seeking US-centric feedback as networking seems to be very normal and part of career planning.

        • Playing DressUP

          I do, from when I was freelancing. I still have the same email and mobile cell phone number, so I use that. It does not have my photo on it. It does not have my home address on it.

    • mascot

      I just use business cards. One feature that my company is testing is a QR code on the card itself that links to the person’s profile on the company website. Early reviews have been positive.

    • Anne Shirley

      I think this depends on location. In the US I would say absolutely not, very strange. If you’re seeing lots of them where you are, then maybe it’s a good idea, but I would wait for real life confirmation instead of a tip written down somewhere.

      • so anon

        I have some plain cards in a business-card size with just my name on them. That way, if I wanted to get in touch with someone, I could jot down the best #s / e-mails to get me on. I didn’t have to give out my card and get non-work stuff at work.

        Now people don’t so much ask for them as they either have you type stuff into their phone or assume they can google you / find you on linked in if they can remember your name (so I have name only so that people can find me, not someone who has a name with a similar phonetic spelling — Smythe for Smith, Catherine-with-a-C, etc.). I find myself using them more for people I meet in purely social settings (and I’ve seen non-working moms who have mom cards, some of which are darling.)

    • Peach Pye

      Back in the day, people used calling cards when they paid a social visit. Along those lines, I had calling cards printed on really nice super heavy weight Crane’s 100% cotton stock. They have only my name and email address and I will handwrite additional info depending on the circumstances. I use them for casual social encounters- think airplanes, random people you meet on the street, etc- that I want to keep in touch with or want info from but don’t want to hand a business card to. I don’t use them a lot but when I do have occasion to use them, I am happy that I have them. If I am networking professionally, I use a photo-free business card.

      • (Former) Clueless Summer

        You sound like an awesome, super organized person. I’m impressed. I don’t even know where my business cards are half the time.

        • Red Beagle

          To that point, I just got some great gifts for about $25 each from a s*te called Leatherology which are business card envelopes. They are very nicely made, lined soft leather and come in various colors and styles, including one that snaps closed like the world’s smallest clutch or an envelope. They hold about 20 standard size business cards and come in a lovely gift box and chamois dust wrap.
          Oh, and their purses and totes are great, too.

      • Maddie Ross

        I have similar calling cards with my name on them only from Crane. I use them for all sorts of random social things – particularly these days on top of dinners I’m sending to friends who have just had babies. Like Peach Pye, I will write info or notes on them as needed.

      • Senior Attorney

        I have personal calling cards with my name, cell number, and email. They have a design on the top half of the card of black dots with one pink dot. I got them from American Stationary.

      • Nonny

        I have always wanted to have an old-fashioned calling card but never knew anyone who actually did it, and worried that if I had one people would just think it was weird.

        Now that I have heard you other awesome women have them, I feel justified and will go ahead and get them. Thank you for the enablement!

      • Houda

        This reminds me of a book: “The age of Innocence” where the gentlemen had calling cards

    • Wildkitten

      I have a personal networking card – it has my personal cell and personal email rather than work. It does not have a picture but has a fun color and logo-type-thing.

    • Misc.

      I have a personal card because my employer does not provide business cards. It has only my name, email, and google voice number. Mostly I give it to the sales clerks at Nordstrom when they ask for my email address (and then they give it back), but I’m glad to have it.

    • Meg Murry

      When I was at a job with business cards that were only one sided, I made up a sheet of address labels with my personal cell phone number and email on them, and kept a couple in the same part of my wallet where I kept my business cards. Then when I wanted to give someone my personal info to have them contact me there instead of my work contact info (like another mom to arrange a playdate, etc) I would just stick the label on the back of my work card. It wasn’t fancy, but it worked, and kept me from having to have 2 sets of cards.

  10. Hollis

    I need some good ideas! I am interviewing for a position that’s opening up because the guy who is in it now decided to leave after only a few months. Fortunately, he hasn’t left yet and I’ll get an opportunity to meet him and ask him some questions. What can I ask him to find out the truth of why he is leaving the position in such a short time? I suspect he’ll say something like “family reasons,” in which case I can’t really drill down on that without being rude. I know he doesn’t owe me anything but I’m worried that the boss is a jerk or the job isn’t as they represented to him (or me) in some significant way. Thanks a lot!

    • houda

      He doesn’t owe you an answer, but if he is leaving he has nothing to lose by telling you the truth.
      Instead of asking him about why he is leaving, ask him the questions you really worry about because they are relevant for you: what is the boss like? working hours, team dynamics, recognition, any things I should know of.
      When I did my handovers, I never held back.

    • L

      Someone posted this the other day, but I like the “tell me what you did yesterday” question. I think you can also ask about workload and ask some leading questions regarding to flexibility/balance/etc.

    • Anon

      I agree. He may not be forthcoming because he has a reputation to uphold. Do not be too pushy and if the job is offered, don’t accept until after you meet the guy again for drinks. At this point get all you can out of him so that you can negotiate your best deal with the company the next day.

      • Hollis

        I’m not sure about meeting the guy for drinks. We’re not personal friends – he is one of the people I am interviewing with (even though we won’t be overlapping) and I don’t currently work for his company. I think it would be weird to meet with him separately from the other folks I’ll be meeting there.

      • Meg Murry

        Yes, I agree – don’t grill him at this point. If possible, get his contact info, and if you get an offer, ask if he’d be willing to meet up with you to answer a few more questions – ask him then. Or work your network if you have one to see if anyone knows the scoop over at the new company. But if you grill him during the interview, you might shoot yourself in the foot on actually getting hired.

    • Playing DressUP

      Ask him how he got this job, and listen for what he’s *not* saying. If he’s saying it was a bait-and-switch, or if he genuinely had different expectations going in to the job. Also, ask him what he’s doing next – if he’s taking time off, what are his long-term plans? If he plans to switch industries/sectors, that might be a clue, or if he plans to get back into the same thing.

      When I was being forced out of a job, many moons ago, and leaving the sector, there were ways that I was honest yet diplomatic, and I did freely admit to co-workers that the timing was not my choice but that I would land on my feet at a place with a better fit.

      • Hollis

        That’s the thing – I don’t think he is being forced out because the boss is all stressed-out that he is leaving and also, they are actually arranging this meeting for me to talk with him directly; if they thought he was going to say anything bad, I don’t think they would have put him on my meeting schedule. They made it sound like he was there longer than a few months – I had to google to figure that one out.

    • Anon2

      Most likely, he is not going to tell you that the boss is a jerk even if he is leaving because of his boss. Many people will not give the honest answer. They don’t want to burn bridges. Can you find out if the turnover is high in the team? How many people have left recently and how long did they stay? If the turnover rate is high and people are leaving within an year after they join, I would avoid taking the job (ahem…saying from experience :-).

      • Hollis

        This is a good point. Do you think though that if there’s been a string of people who didn’t stay, then it could be an advantage for me, because management will know that the boss is difficult to work for but I’m getting along with them well? Twice I’ve worked for that person who can’t keep anybody, and people thought more highly of me for sticking with that person for longer than anybody.

        • Anon2

          It totally depends on what you can handle. For me, it was very difficult. People were leaving left and right and I had to pick up what they left behind in addition to my work till a replacement was hired and ramped up (which is like 3 – 6 months from the time a person left). The boss was indeed terrible and there were a couple of others who harassed other people including me. Overall team atmosphere was toxic. Six months after taking up the job, I started looking for another job. But if you are confident that you can manage people, go for it.

        • S in Chicago

          I wouldn’t purposely aim to get into a situation of instability thinking it would be a career advantage. Yes, it can be an opportunity to grow or advance rapidly in position as other folks flee. But it usually means you’re taking on unnecessary risk of not staying yourself, either because it is so miserable you don’t want to stay, you get ousted, or the company isn’t strong enough to sustain in a way that makes staying a reasonable option. Life isn’t fair. You don’t usually get bonus points for doing a good job under miserable people. It just makes it harder to do a good job and have strong, positive professional wins that you can point to later. Folks outside just want to know what you did. They don’t care about the footnote regarding how hard it was to do.

    • lox

      “Culture is an important part of the workplace and I want to get a sense of what it will be like to work at company X. Can you tell me something that would be perceived as a violation of workplace culture?” and listen.*
      * I read this (or something very similar) in a book of good interview questions. I wonder if it would be a good way to draw him out about a possible fit issue he had.

  12. Branching Out

    Talk to me about Jones New York. I need mid-priced suit options, not including my historical go-tos of Banana, AT and JCrew. I’ve heard about JNY’s dresses here on the blog, but what about suits? Any other go-to brands I should consider?

    • Bonnie

      They’re good quality but generally on the conservative side. Their pants all too high waisted for me.

    • In the Pink

      Macys carries a large selection of mid priced suits. I have used their Tahari selections as well as JNY. The Tahari also has a “lux” label on some and I find them to be excellent, although one has to look out for the MOB or wedding guest look at times. There’s always a sale on a macys and coupons if you have their store card.

      I do find that JNY tends to run larger in sizing.

      I have also found some nice Nipon suits at NMarcus’ sale, but sadly, not at Last Call.

      Good luck!

    • Basics

      I think they are well made and the designs are nice (very basic, which I prefer). I do not care at all for their non-natural fiber fabric, but when I can get something in cotton or, less often, wool, I think they are well worth the price.

    • Traveller

      My go-to suit is a Jones NY from their ‘essentials’ line – it’s been a total workhorse…..washable wool with some stretch. Looks great even after being stuffed in a carryon (might need a little steaming, but otherwise good to go)…

      I have a matching skirt, pants & jacket & paid about $400 cdn for the 3pcs on sale.

    • RR

      I like their suits, although I’m on the plus end of the line so my options are more limited. They make some that are washable, which I find to be awesome. I generally like the shapes, and although the fabrics are cheaper than the higher end I find that they look nice and work appropriate.

      I also really like the Nordstrom house brand (for plus it’s Sejour–maybe Halogen for regular?)

  13. Calling all Compliance Directors!

    Hoping there might be a few of you who are Directors of Compliance or some such thing – I am thinking it is a direction my career might go down but wondering…

    What’s your background? Do you like your job? Do you feel alienated from the company at large? Do you feel you have adequate support in doing what you’re doing (or do you constantly feel behind the 8-ball)? How does it compare to doing regulatory legal work at a large firm?

    • LawDawg

      I am in a compliance/legal position for an investment advisory firm. I don’t feel alienated from the company at large at all. In fact, I think compliance is one of those great positions where you get to work with everyone. In my case, I have to understand trading, portfolio management, operations, marketing, etc. I worked in advisory operations & compliance for almost 20 years before deciding on going to law school and then back into the industry. I can’t provide any large firm comparisons, but I can say that I like it, have adequate support and feel like I am a key part of the company.

    • MegB

      I’m director of compliance at a financial services firm. I’m a lawyer and started as a compliance analyst working for a broker/dealer and then a major bank. I’ve not worked at a traditional firm ever. I love it. If the firm is serious about compliance (and the good ones are) you’ll have the support you need. I love it, it allows me to use the things I like about the law such as critical thinking and yet isn’t traditional firm based work. If you want to talk more, I’d be happy to send you an email or phone number.
      Thanks!

    • es

      I’m a director of compliance at a large bank. I have a dual MBA/JD, and I originally worked in Public Finance before making the jump. For me, it was something I’d always been interested in. There are also very few people who have high level compliance experience, so it’s very in-demand. The hours are a lot better too without much of a cut in pay (for me at least).

      Since I made the jump, I’ve worked a few places. One provided very little support for compliance, and just focused on supporting the revenue generating positions, to the point that we just couldn’t possibly do our jobs well (to the point where audits surfaced some issues). My current bank, though, provides significant support for their compliance people, and it’s a much better environment.

      I don’t think your concerns are unfounded, but there are places where you’d getting the support, but be aware that there are also places that don’t support their compliance people at all.

  15. JJ

    After my run this morning, I meant to post this. Thanks to Kat and to all the ladies here for recommending the Sweaty Bands. They really are the only bands that actually stay still and hold my hair in place. I’m sold.

  16. AIMS

    Question about sunless spray tans. I never had one, but going to the beach for the weekend and thought it’d be nice to get one. But reading the FAQs and all the restrictions on lotion and etc., and thinking my plan of getting manicure/pedicure and spray tan all in one day might not work (this would all be this afternoon, no time tomorrow).
    So for those who do this regularly, 1) is this doable? 2) What’s better airbrush or just the booth? 3) Recommendations for a streak free, idiot proof sunless tanner to use at home?

    • L

      No idea, but I am also interested in one and am concerned if it will streak onto clothing after a few days. If you get it, can you report back?

      For #3, I’ve used the St. Tropez foaming tanner with the mitt with much success

      • mascot

        The key for spray tans is good skin prep (exfoliate, shave, clean skin). I get better, more natural color using the St. Tropez mousse at home than with spray tans booths.

        Ulta sells the mousse and the applicator mitt.

    • LT IT

      Have not done myself but a friend does it regularly. Swears by Versa and I believe she has tried all of them. Per her instructions to me (I keep thinking I will do it but never quite get there) you need to do mani/pedi first as tan takes several hours to completely dry and any scrubbing off your hands/feet will rub color off. It can streak onto clothing at first – she always wears sweats and has had it streak onto sheets if she’s done it later at night. But won’t streak after a few days and the streaks on sheets were washable.

      • packing advice

        Mani/pedi first, then go do the Versa spray tan. I have had better luck with Versa than with the airbrush stuff they spray on you. Go to bed, then shower in the morning. It needs about 8 hours to soak in. Or – mani/pedi in the afternoon, then spray tan first thing the next morning, go on trip – shower when you get there. it needs time to develop.

        I am super pale and do the medium versa tan.

        • TXLawyer

          This right here. But I have had better experiences with airbrush as there’s some room for user error with the machines. Definitely do the mani/pedi first. Wear an outfit you can go commando in and flows loosely. Let it “soak” for 8-12 hours before showering. I wouldn’t do it more than 2-3 days out from your trip as it will fade.

          • Cream Tea

            “There’s some room for user error with the machines” – Reminds me of Ross. “Did you count mississippily???”

      • Toffee

        Channeling Ellen, I LOVE Versa. I agree with LT IT, except mine never streaked or got on my clothes. I always spent 10 minutes in front of a fan drying before putting on clothes.

    • hoola hoopa

      Related question: Does spray tan offer any sunburn protection similar to a ‘real’ tan? I burn easily when stark white, but once I slowly build up a base tan, I’m fairly resistant. I’ve been curious about using a spray tan at the beginning of summer or winter vacations to sunny locations.

      • Woah

        OMG, I just died at the stupidity of this question.

        Please, think before you speak.

        • Scully

          Way harsh, Tai. No reason to miss an excuse to educate.

          Sunless tanner is a chemical that makes your skin change color (that’s why it’s kinda orangey sometimes), but it does not work in the same way regular tanning does (cells reacting to damage from UV radiation). It will not provide a protective “base tan”.

          However, base tanning in general is a myth. It doesn’t protect you from a future sunburn; what you are experiencing is psychological. Check out skincancer.org for more info and be safe in the sun!

          • hoola hoopa

            Thanks for actually answering my question. That was my assumption.

            FWIW, while a tan doesn’t protect from long term sun damage, it does protect *me* from immediately painful sunburns. There’s a very stark difference for my skin. Not psychological for me anyway, but maybe this is probably a YMMV thing.

          • Blonde Lawyer

            Me too hoola hoopa. Not to go all Elizabeth Warren here but I’m 16% Native American (great-grandfather 100% and in a tribe) and the rest of me is Irish. My brother got the Irish skin. He is pale and red-headed and burns very easy. I burn the first or second time out in the season but it doesn’t peel and turns into a dark tan. No matter how much sunscreen I wear, I still get dark in the summer. I always get amazed comments that I’m a blonde Irish girl (super pale in the winter) that tans. I really think it is that little bit of Native American in me but I don’t actually know. I don’t think I have ever burned beyond May.

    • Anonymous

      Get the mani pedi first but just tell them to wash off the lotion they use during the massage (my place always asks if I want it wiped off, so this is not that weird)–or bring some baby wipes and do it yourself before you go to the tanning place. Some tanning places also have exfoliating wipes for $5 that could prep your skin.

      The airbrush tan works *way* better than the booths, but make sure you wear old clothing and that covers where you come in contact with car seats (if you’re driving). The solution they use has a lot of cosmetic bronzer in it so the tech can see what they’re doing, and that cosmetic bronzer will rub off on to your clothes and car seats after you get dressed and leave. They dry you off well enough so that the actual tan is set when you walk out the door, but the bronzer can leave a mess even hours later, so just cover yourself in old clothes and don’t sit with your skin directly touching any furniture/bedding.

    • Jordan

      I always get a mani pedi the day after the spray tan because I can never get the hands and feet to look right. I have had it done professionally and in the booth. They say to wait but it’s never looked bad. I don’t soak my legs though.

      The bronzer will get on everything the day of (and highlight a lot of little hairs you didn’t know you had).

  17. packing advice

    Need advice – heading with my husband to a partner conference in a few weeks. I am traveling for the “spouse program” and am one of the few working spouses. What am I supposed to wear? I have a feeling all the other wives will look cute – and I will look like a total dud in my “business casual” attire I wear most days. Just trying to blend in – but do want to look put together (and not in a sweater set or suit). Any ideas on where to buy some casual outfits? Oh, and it will still be HOT.

    • Anon

      So, without knowing any more about the location or the specified attire for the “spouse program”, I’d say you can very rarely go wrong with cute skinny ankle pants, ballet flats, a casual button down shirt or crisp tunic, and either a cardigan or a knit blazer to throw on if the A/C is high.

    • JJ

      If it’s going to be extremely hot, I’d go with something like a ponte sheath dress or something similar that you can dress up with a cardigan (if necessary), a statement necklace/earrings, and cute sandals/heels. For more casual stuff, I’d second the recommendation for ankle pants and a cute top.

      • packing advice

        Thanks! I think I accidentally reported your comment – meant to click reply. Sorry about that!

        Will head to J. Crew this weekend. I would also like my spouse to give me more details about the attire, but that’s not going to happen…..we are heading to Las Vegas. It will still be in the high 90s/100 the week we are there. Ouch!

        I am also sure I have stuff in my closet I could take – but kind of want something new.

        • NYNY

          Las Vegas is hot outdoors, but really air-conditioned indoors. Make sure you always have a wrap or cardigan in your bag.

    • Blonde Lawyer

      Unless you work in the same industry or your husband’s coworkers are potential clients/business, why not just be “off duty” and dress as a spouse? Is the issue that you don’t own the off-duty clothes or that you don’t want to look like a non-working spouse? I’m just trying to gather what you are seeking.

      ETA: are the spouses all women? Curious if there will be husbands in the spouse program too.

      • packing advice

        I don’t have the off duty clothes! I go from working mom to weekend mom – my weekend clothes won’t fly at this thing (think shorts and a t-shirt).

        Majority of the spouses are women.

        I guess I am just feeling like my non-work clothing wardrobe is in a rut, and I need to re-vamp it….and I don’t want to buy cute summery outfits when I am in a fall clothing mindset.

        • anon

          If you have time, I’d just pick up a few cute dresses from Asos – they have a lot of cheap/on trend things that work great in the heat.

  18. Tunic

    Hi, does anyone have a recommendation for a long tunic-like sweater to wear with skinny jeans or leggings? Need it to be long enough to cover bum, but I don’t want it to hug my bum like a sweater dress if that makes sense. Just to wear for errands on weekends or long car trips. Thanks!

    • packing advice

      I saw one today on the J.Crew outlet site – had cute leather looking pockets. Nordstrom also has some on sale right now.

    • Wordy

      Boden’s fall catalog has some longer sweaters — check around for a coupon code/free shipping at the very least!

    • AnonCo

      I have something like this from Old Navy (Women’s Scoop-Neck Tunic Sweater).

  19. Nonny

    OK guys. I just discovered that my perfect, amazing, wonderful workwear source, Hobbs, now has a US website.

    Hobbs is a UK brand and I am completely in love with them. As a fairly short pear, I feel like I must have been the fit model for their UK size 10. Their quality is fantastic, styling is completely office appropriate, they use lots of natural fibres, everything is properly lined and finished, and they also have a casual line that incorporates a lot of fun details. Most of my workwear is from there. Unfortunately, since they don’t have any stores in North America, I have to either stock up on trips to London, or order online. Equally unfortunately, their delivery agent for Canadian online orders charges an arm and a leg. I’d rather just get a plane ticket.

    However, I just discovered that they now have a US website, for deliveries to the US, and charge $5 for standard delivery. Their US prices are more than Banana or AT, maybe the same as Theory, but in my experience Theory really doesn’t fit those with hips. So for those of you who haven’t discovered Hobbs yet, I am offering up this PSA and hope you love Hobbs as much as I do.

    FYI I am not affiliated (sadly – do they need an in-house lawyer?), just in love.

    • LH

      Beautiful! Very Alicia Florrick. Do they ever run sales or do you have to pay full price? And do you know if the outlet is the same quality as regular?

      • Nonny

        They do move things to sale, but at the end of the season. I believe the “Outlet” items are simply regular items that have been moved to sale, but am not 100% positive.

      • Nonny

        Oh, so do I. That is the problem with finding a retailer that totally matches your body type. I know I can walk into their store and anything there will look great on me. It’s actually probably a good thing that (until now) I’ve had to pay a fortune for getting things shipped to Canada. Now that I can get things sent to a US PO box, I’d better start saving my pennies.

        • Flying Squirrel

          I should have added that I’m very much a short pear as well, and not knowing the actual fit (though your recommendation is appealing) I will say their cuts are all in line with what I look for.

          Of course, now I’m in very casual California, so I probably don’t have much occasion to wear many of their items anyway. My wallet will be happy ;)

    • cbackson

      Okay, so I’m finding a LOT of polyester. There’s polyester and there’s polyester (and I’m not intrinsically opposed to it if it’s the solid, good-quality kind) – do you have an opinion on the quality of theirs?

      • Nonny

        I’m trying to think whether I have anything of theirs that is polyester. I don’t think I do. But let’s put it this way – in my experience they don’t do things on the cheap, so if they are selling polyester, it is likely to be the good kind.

  20. Batgirl

    If anyone is up for an afternoon vicarious shopping challenge, I’m looking for a fun, white reception dress to (possibly) change into during my wedding. Not sure yet if I’ll actually change out of my wedding dress, but I’d like a fun option in case I’m too hot in my dress to dance or in case I want to wear something else to our after party. Ideally, it would cost under $250 since I’ve already spent a lot on my actual wedding dress. Thanks, all!

  21. Scent-sensitive people

    Can someone who is scent-sensitive please give me some perspective?

    My live-in SO is being increasingly…difficult…about scents. I don’t wear perfume or scented lotion, etc., and I don’t use products with added fragrance. However, he’s becoming increasingly vocal about the fact that some product I use (shampoo? leave-in conditioner? who knows) is irritating to him. As is pretty much anything if he has a sore throat (including dishsoap, toothpaste, etc).

    I am not at all sensitive to smells (meaning I have a great sense of smell, but no known irritants, unless it is someone wearing half a bottle of perfume). So I’m trying to figure out how much of this is him being a jerk, and how much is legitimate.

    • Anonymous

      If you even have to ask if he’s being a jerk, he is. Douse yourself in perfume and dumb that jerk in a blaze of scented glory.

    • Anonymous

      Hahahahaha. Also does he expect you not to use toothpaste? If so are you okay with a lifetime without it? He might be a jerk. He might be mentally ill. Not your problem to solve

    • Baconpancakes

      If toothpaste and dishsoap is irritating him, he should see a doctor.

      How much are you willing to put up with for him? He needs to start being nicer, asap, but having a headache all the time will make anyone grouchy. If you ARE willing to go scent-free, have him smell your products and see which ones actually give him a headache. Then you’ll have to buy all new shampoo, conditioner, or whatever it is, specifically for people with sensitivities, and do a clean sweep of your house for scented products. They do make unscented dish and laundry detergents, and vinegar based cleaning products are non-irritating once the air circulates for an hour or so.

      The real question is whether he’s actually allergic to all of these things, or whether he’s just not crazy about the scents and wants to be a controlling jerk. I can’t help you on that one.

    • Meg Murry

      Does he get migraines? When I have a migraine, every scented product, including ones I usually love or even ones with no added scent make my migraine 100 times worse and sometimes even make me vomit. Certain scents like the freesia scented body spray my sister loved in high school seem to be migraine triggers for me (or at least push me over the edge into full misery migraine from slight headache). He probably should see a doctor about it if scents are bothering him that much, especially if it is often.
      Also, there is a difference between fragrance-free and unscented, plus even items that don’t have scent added can just have a natural smell that bothers some people. In addition to your lotions, shampoo etc your makeup may also have fragrance or scent added – or may just be irritating to him, especially things that tend to poof up in the air like face powders.

      If it is bothering him that much, you should try to be accommodating. Is it only bothering him if he goes in the room after you apply products? Or does he complain after you come home from work, hours after you’ve applied anything. But also push for him to go see a doctor, especially if he can’t handle everyday things like toothpaste (unless he has a brand that works for him but its yours he can’t stand, in which case – try his).

      The difference between fragrance-free and unscented: http://www.youbeauty.com/skin/columns/beauty-informer/fragrance-free-unscented-skincare

      • Scent-sensitive people

        He doesn’t get migraines. He’s only irritated by the products immediately after they are used – hours later, nada. Also, the products don’t bother him if he is the one using them (ex: he uses Head & Shoulders, which I think has a pretty heavy scent, esp. in contrast to my very low fragrance shampoo from trader joes). Same toothpaste.

        • Anna

          Is he a jerk otherwise? It’s perfectly possible that shampoo or conditioner could bother him- I’ve had to give up on several conditioners that smelled good but made me cough and my nose run. If that’s the kind of problem he has and nothing else, going to the doctor is certainly not necessary. All they’ll tell you is to avoid as many irritants as you can and if it’s still bad, try over the counter allergy drugs. There’s really not a lot that can be done.

    • Anonish

      Is this new or newly enhanced sensitivity? Not to overly ring alarm bells, but when my father became more sensitive to smells than a normal person, it turned out to be a brain tumor.

  22. Baconpancakes

    A friend of mine is joining the working world in the DC metro area after an extended period of time in school, and is going to be looking for a flexible position while she works on an additional degree – she mentioned applying as an admin or receptionist, which she has part-time experience in. However, her previous experience is either in foreign countries or on a college campus, so the dress code will be different in DC. She’s asked me for advice on a few pieces and disagreed strongly when I rejected the pieces as inappropriate for an office environment and better for a cocktail party or garden wedding. I do dress more on the business side of biz caz, so that’s what I know.

    Anybody have suggestions for resources for professional dressing for admins/receptionists?

  23. London Recs

    I’m taking my first trip to London soon and am looking for recommendations on where to stay. Specific hotel recommendations welcome, but also general advice on what areas are good to stay in. It is myself and my husband traveling for pleasure (I’m 28). We’re only there for 5 days and will probably want to do some touristy things, shopping, and eating.

    • Nonny

      I can recommend a good hotel in the Covent Garden area, called the Strand Palace Hotel. Within easy walking distance of good shopping, good eating, and the theatre district, on the Tube line, and prices are fair for London. It is clean and was recently renovated.

      If not there, then in general Covent Garden and Bloomsbury are the best areas for walkability and access to things. I would stay away from King’s Cross as the area is a bit dodgy. Shoreditch is fun and edgy and on the Tube, but not very central for tourist purposes (and again, can be dodgy at night if you don’t know the area well). Kensington and Knightsbridge are great but the prices are likely to be quite a bit higher there.

      Hope that helps!

    • Min Donner

      I have this in two of the other color combos, and love it! It’s very flattering for my pear figure, very comfortable, and at 5’7″ I feel it’s borderline on the length for work with bare legs, but perfectly acceptable with dark tights and boots as fall/winter roll around in my neck of the woods. And for what it’s worth, you’re not missing anything with the belt – the belts that came with the dresses where pretty cheap looking and I removed them from both of mine and have been switching out different neutral and colorful belts.

      • Parfait

        Thanks for the validation! It hits just at the top of the knee on me (5’10”) and that’s dandy. I was considering ordering it in another color at full price. Pockets!!

  25. Hollis

    I know we’ve probably discussed this here, but does anyone have a nylon work bag that carries a lot and is not a Longchamp LePliage? I would like to be able to hold a redweld in it, but not make it ridiculously heavy (hence, nylon rather than leather). I’m considering a tumi bag or even a nylon suitcase because I’m not having any luck. I have a LePliage but I need at least 1 decently-sized pocket inside to hold my phone, keys, and wallet.

  26. men's suiting options?

    Hey all,

    I may repost in Coffee Break to get more ideas, but just in case anyone is still reading here:

    My non-suit-wearing guy is looking to invest in a nice suit, preferably for less than $1000. What are good stores or brands to try? He’s fairly slight but has very muscular thighs.

    • LLBMBA

      SuitSupply. My husband (who wears a suit every day to work) loves that he can get something moder-fitting for less than $700 (and we’re in Canada so prices are likely cheaper in the US). Highly recommend.

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