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Tuesday’s TPS Report: Open Weave Buckle-Front Cashmere Cardigan

gray cashmere cardigan with buckle closure

Our daily TPS reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices.

Gray is not my favorite color, but I may have to reassess that with this beautiful buckle-front cashmere cardigan from Neiman Marcus.

It looks great with jeans, as styled, but I also think it would look cozy and professional with a sheath dress, a pencil skirt, a pair of ankle pants, a pair of trouser pants… pretty much anything, in other words. Gorgeous.

It's $295, available in sizes XS-XL. Open Weave Buckle-Front Cashmere Cardigan

Seen a great piece you’d like to recommend? Please e-mail tps@corporette.com.

Update: It appears that the price of the less-expensive alternative has gone up significantly today, but you can use code LCTREAT to get $50 off.

Pssst: Ann Taylor is offering 60% off sale prices today, one of their better sales — lots of inventory.  Happy shopping, ladies!

Sales of note for 12.5

And some of our latest threadjacks here at Corporette (reader questions and commentary) — see more here!

Some of our latest threadjacks include:

184 Comments

  1. So you know how the inside of heels (or any shoes but I think heels especially) starts curling up around the toes? I mean the fabric or leather lining of the shoe. What’s a good way to fix the problem? I find this happens almost immediately with my new heels (probably because when I walk in heels my toes tend to dig in/curl a bit to keep my balance) and it’s really irritating. If it gets bad, little chunks of lining or whatever it is start to fall out of the shoe, and I don’t think it’s great for keeping my shoes smelling good, either, because more humidity seems to get trapped under the lining.

    Help?

    1. I think the shoe liners that curl up are synthetic. A good cobbler can replace them with leather.

      1. FWIW, I’ve had this happen even in high quality (Ferragamo) heels, although for me it takes awhile and is typically the heel cup that starts peeling upward around the edges. So, will be following with interest. My current cobbler removed the peeling linings and replaced them with new.

    2. I find that buying wide shoes helps because there’s less stress around where the lining glues down in the toe.

      1. that makes sense, but my feet are pretty narrow so wide shoes would probably fall off or be uncomfortable.

    3. I’m also having this issue with my nicest pair of heels with leather linings. I’m planning to take them to a cobbler when I get around to it, but can’t really think of any other solutions :/

      They need professional intervention at this point.

  2. Hi all! I’m looking for recommendations for delicious brunch in Chicago (and supper recommendations if you have them too!) I’m staying on the mag. mile and would prefer to be able to walk although I would cab for the right place! Longman & Eagle looks up my alley and I plan on checking that out. I generally like that style of restaurant, or farm-to-table type restaurants, or any ethic food. Thanks!!

    2. FYI, Longman & Eagle is farrrr from magnificent mile. I’d recommend Little Goat in the West Loop!

      1. I’m giggling at this restaurant name… it reminds me of a certain relative that comes around once a month :)

      1. Google tells me there’s one opening in Streeterville, any idea if it is open yet?

    7. I like Gage and Kanela, and really like Farmhouse for brunch, but if L&E is up your alley, you should go to the Publican. Best brunch in the city and closer to where you’re staying than Longman.

  3. I really like this sweater! I love how it shows off a woman’s curves. I just wish is was not so expensive.

    1. I agree, this isbeautiful, but I already bought the Tracy Reese dress from yesterday, so I am going to have to resist at this price.

    2. I actually got something really similar to this (different color, no basket weave, but same super-flattering shape) at TJ Maxx a couple of years ago and it’s a winter workhorse. I’d look around some places other than Neiman Marcus :)

    3. I love everything about this sweater and will be adding it to the Christmas gift/stalking list. The slightly cheaper alternative is nice as well but I wouldn’t wear it to work. It would be perfect though for long flights.

      1. But this price is not extreme for cashmere. And usually the cashmere offerings you see are very basic…this has some style.

      2. Bonnie, if you find that it goes on sale, please post – I really love this one. And I love this color gray — it goes with everything and looks especially lovely with warm honey browns.

          1. Ooh. Yeah I really like this sweater although it is too rich for my blood. Please, stalkers, return to us when you have news!

  4. I have a wrap dress I adore that I bought post-partum. It was such an easy sell: adjustable sizing in case I get larger or smaller (and in the meantime, it fit). Forward a few years: it doesn’t fit any more. I can wrap the bottom tighter, but the top has too much fabric to wrap up tight enough (so the problem isn’t that it’s low cut, it’s that the fabric now is for the shape of someone more hour-glassy. Fashion tape and camisoles help, but what I really need is just a smaller dress (I have acquired a similar dress in my current size and it fits just fine). Has anyone done top-half alterations to a knit wrap dress successfully? I want to take the Extra-Petite modifications to my tailor, but am hesitant that I may ruin the dress (it was a DVF and a splurge for me at the time, but it also fit at the time).

    * The bosom area isn’t stretched out or anything. I was flat-chested even when nursing and never nursed in it (which did stretch out some other garmets).

    1. It’s too big all over? So you’d be bringing in every single seam and re shaping it. Prob not going to work. I’d give it to a friend because I’d rather see someone else love it than wind up with a sad looking dress.

      1. It’s really just too much fabric in the chest (so maybe would be OK if I had broader shoulders or were taller). Maybe I talk the man into just sewing it shut up top so it’s a pull-over?

        If the dress weren’t so sentimental to me (or were a lot less expensive), I’d have donated it already. But I can’t JSFAMO (at least without one trip to the alterations place).

        1. Then it will be baggy around the chest though. If you are sentimental, plop it in a bag and save it for a kid.

        2. You can’t really fix this problem unfortunately – maybe a friend would appreciate it?

        3. I would just go to the tailor and see what can be done. Just go to a good one who’s a seamstress. I’ve always been amazed at what can be done and no one who’s responded has seen you or the dress and they’re guessing. It sounds hard to fix but a tailor is the person to ask.

      2. I had a cashmere DVF wrap dress I loved that I was only able to find in a size too large. I had it taken in all over, and it worked well. I feel like it doesnt fit quite as perfectly as it would have if I had purchased the correct size (mostly in how the skirt lays, i dont think that would be an issue with the silk dresses), but it still looks good.

    3. I would think a tailor could take in the side seams on the top only, but I’m not familiar with what the construction is like.

    4. A good tailor will tell you what is and is not possible with alterations. It’s worth looking into it.

      1. +1

        It’s worth asking. If the sleeves fit, there are relatively few and easily accessible seams involved, so they may be able to take it in. Depending on the fabric, they may be able to add darts, etc.

    5. Are you done having kids for sure? If not and you don’t want to pass on the dress for sentimental reasons, could you put it back in the closet for early pregnancy/postpartum #2, and consider altering it after that point?

      Otherwise I’m with everyone else that it seems more likely to be not what you want and disappointing and you would probably be further ahead selling it at a consignment store or ebay and then stalking the same (or similar) pattern on ebay in a smaller size

    6. I am a distinct pear shape — pretty close to flat-chested — and have had two jersey dresses taken in at the top successfully. In both cases my tailor was able to take in the side seams without having to touch the sleeves/shoulders/waist at all or add darts. So I think it’s certainly possible your tailor could help. The big caveat here is that I have relatively broad shoulders — if the dress needs to have the shoulders taken in, I think that means re-setting the sleeves in addition to taking in the side seams — still not impossible for a good tailor, but much more expensive.

      Though come to think of it, I know men’s jackets can usually be taken in at the upper center back seam to adjust somewhat for too-broad shoulders — that might work as an alternative if the dress has a center back seam.

    7. Can you get a super padded bra and just wear it on days when you want a bit of extra vavavoom?

  5. I believe a few posters expressed interest in a Philadelphia meetup, but nothing’s been set up recently, am I right?
    Let’s do it! Email me at philadelphiacorpor3tt3 at outlook dot com — replace the 3s with e’s

    8. Meeee toooooooooooooo! Congrats!!!!!!

      Also, I posted a few times this summer about my anxiety related to this. Thanks to everyone who responded, it helped!

  7. What, not enthusiastic about GRAY? Gray is the best! Looks great with anything in the red, pink, purple family. Looks great with teal, turquoise, bright blue. Always appropriate with black or white. With pastels. Gray screams “Cozy” to me, yet always professional as well. Love it. Best “color” ever.

    3. Somewhere along the way, black stopped looking as good on me as it did in my youth, and grey stepped up to save me. LOVE.

  8. Can anyone recommend comfortable and durable black flats for size 11/12 feet? I have had a pair of TBurch flats for a couple of years and they have never been comfy. I’m somewhat limited because of my gigantic feet. Thanks!

    4. Paul Mayer Attitudes. Way more comfortable than AGLs, but also a bit more casual looking.

      1. wow. I may have to try these because I have never worn a shoe more comfortable than my AGLs

        1. I have AGLs too, but they are much “stiffer” than the Paul Mayers, which helps the AGLs look dressier. The Mayers also have sturdier, comfier soles – rubber with good traction and thicker than the AGLs. Depending on the style, the Mayers can also be roomier. They’re more difficult to find. There’s a boutique in NYC, and then several indie boutiques carry them across the country. I have 4 pairs of them now, and they are my go-to “cute outfit with jeans” shoe. I wore my first pair all the time, including on 2 week-long Europe trips where I walked everywhere. They held up amazingly.

          1. Harry’s on the UWS has Paul Mayer shoes, if you are looking for them in NYC. I think I may have seem some styles on Amazon as well, not sure of other online options.

          2. The actual Paul Mayer store is on the UES, and I highly recommend going there if you’re in NYC. They have all their shoes in every color combo, style, heel height you could imagine – way more than their website even. Also, they go on sale for 50% off at the end of the season.

          3. Ugh, forgot the s-word in moderation:

            The actual Paul Mayer store is on the UES, and I highly recommend going there if you’re in NYC. They have all their shoes in every color combo, style, heel height you could imagine – way more than their webs*te even. Also, they go on sale for 50% off at the end of the season.

  9. Does anyone have any of the Uniqlo merino sweater dresses that could comment on sizing and quality/ The sweaters themselves seem to be universally praised here but I could not find anything about the dresses . . .

  10. Any recommendations for a burgundy carry-all tote? I Have my black LL Bean Town & Field Tote that I adora, but I’m looking for a color version to jazz up winter days.

    Ideally in the under $300 range.

    1. I adora (love that!) my burgundy tote by siamod. It’s functional, has a full top zipper (which is a must for me), and fits my laptop if need be.

      It is their Monterosso Serra Ladies Laptop Tote…and it’s on ebags. link to follow to avoid moderation

  12. Any thoughts on how to rescue a wardrobe from stodginess? I’m a government lawyer in DC, and I think my wardrobe is trending towards the worst associations with that role. I’m 33, so I’d like to dress a little younger and fresher. Recently I’ve noticed that I feel a lot more current in one-button blazers rather than multiple-button blazers. Can you think of any other small tweaks like that? Or any blogs for style inspiration? (Keep in mind that I am somewhat limited by an “apple” body shape, which I think can seem matronly, and problem feet that require wide width shoes, low heels, and no pointy toes.)

    1. I think slim-cut pants look great on apple-shapes and can be worn with looser tops. Also look for statement jewelry that will help you stand out.

      1. I am actually wearing slim pants today, and I was thinking that they are better than my wider cuts. Thanks!

    3. How do your style your hair? I think a great haircut can make a frumpy-ish outfit seem intentional and stylish, retro, whatever.

      Also, jewelry. I have a chunky, long gold chain from Club Monaco that I call my Run DMC necklace and it makes a lot of my more conservative outfits seem fresher and cooler somehow. Something like these small pearl ear cuffs would probably have a similar effect, while still being sedate enough for most offices (or at least they’d be fine in my stodgy workplace).
      http://www.baublebar.com/lunar-pearl-ear-cuff.html?cvosrc=cse.google.Revised_Titles&cvo_crid=48160079272&cvo_cid=Google_Search_PLA_HighPriority&gclid=CJKQ1I3Hz8ECFaIF7AodlC4AmA

      1. Somewhere in between? There aren’t any hard and fast rules, but I like to project some measure of authority, so I generally choose a blazer over a cardigan, for example. No suits required except for court appearances.

        1. bangles – I was opposed due to lots of handwriting and typing, but it seems to have modernized everything…and I wear them on the left. For noise control, I’ll use the Lucite ones by ABittar or flat/laying bracelets…when quiet is essential.

          layering in a colorful or metallic necklace with the traditional pearls

          using brooches more, but singly, despite last year’s clustering trend

          belts, often with layering tops that “show” just underneath the blazer’s edge

          happy remodeling to you!

    5. As afellow gov’t lawyer, you can still play with color ant texture, as well as accessories. Of course, the details depend on your personal style. Belts and patterned bottoms or non-neutral bottoms can bring more ttention to your lower half. Nordstraom’s Rack also has great shoe selectionsfor hard-to-fot feet.

    6. Accessories like necklaces and colorful belts can really amp up your look. H&M, Forever 21, Charming Charlies, Old Navy and Target are great places to get cheap accessories to test the waters.

    7. Also – A cute blazer (I’d say even those with NO buttons) from H&M would be cheap and would modernize your look without requiring a ton of new clothes.

  13. Question inspired by all the comments lately about lifting. I’m a runner, but am looking to add other exercises because while it’s great cardio, I don’t necessarily feel strong or toned. In the past, I’ve tried going to boot camps, etc. that focus on lunges / push-ups / squats and the like, and it seems like my body’s tendency is to bulk up. All my clothes fit worse and tighter. Will lifting weights rather than focusing on exercises using my own body weight help? I know I should probably talk to a trainer, but just wanted to get some anecdotes. Thanks!

      1. I have a barre3 online subscription- it’s easy to throw in 20 minute of barre here and there and WAY cheaper than actual classes.

      2. +1. Barre, ballet beautiful, Pilates, etc are all great. Also, maybe Tracy Anderson videos?

        1. I’d give pilates and yoga a try. YMMV, but I’ve gotten toned and not bulky from pilates and yoga-type workouts paired with running. And I have gotten bulkier, especially in the shoulders and arms, from lifting, which, if you enjoy it and you like the look, great, but it’s not my cup of tea.

    2. I can’t imagine what the difference would be between body weight and lifting weights. Someone else might know better, but they are the same to me.

    3. I do a strength training for runners class, which involves a mix of weights and bodyweight exercises. I do think it’s helpful for my overall fitness. Unfortunately, like you, I am finding that my clothes do not fit as well since I’ve started doing it. Not sure if I am bulking up from the exercise or just eating too much. :-/

    4. Lifting weights and bodyweight exercises will build muscle, and yes, you’ll be “bigger” and your clothes will be tighter. So will quick burst cardio (sprinting/stairs etc). I’m 2 pants sizes bigger than I was when I didn’t lift and just ran long distances and did a lot of yoga, but I think I look waaaaaaay better this way. Google “distance runner vs. sprinter”. I’d rather look like a sprinter and buy bigger pants :)

      ETA: although I prefer how I look now, it’s not just about looks. I feel strong (and I AM strong) and that is empowering.

      1. I recognize that strength is empowering and want to be strong, but also like my current body size and shape and don’t want to have to buy all new clothing…

        1. I’m not sure there is a way to build muscle and not, as a result, end up somewhat bigger. Unless you have a lot of body fat/are extremely overweight to begin with, and lose a lot of that in the process. But otherwise? You’ll end up slightly bigger overall.

          1. Well, one pound of muscle is a lot smaller volume-wise than one pound of fat. so you can gain muscle, gain weight, and lose inches if you also lose fat.

    5. I run, but have been sidelined for awhile now. I have been focusing on core strength (abs, back, hips, butt), and have felt stronger and more toned. Definitely do not bulk up (the ab, back and hip muscles dont really bulk up anyway, they are more endurance-type muscles). It is easier to sit up straight and i like how my midsection looks.

    6. I plugged her last week cause her workouts are freaking awesome – Melissa Bender has a ton of at-home workouts. Most are body weight only, so you don’t need lots of equipment. I’m an injured runner also, and find that I get in a great workout at home while I’m on the mend. w w w . benderfitness . c o m

    7. I’m a fan of the 20 minute a day Ruthless DVDs. They are $20 on Amazon and you get 20 different sessions. It is a 60 day program so you do them all three times over the course of the program.

      1. I totally misread your question. Ignore my suggestion. This will likely have the “bulk up” result. I have the same issue as you but I found that while things got snugger, they stopped at a point. I didn’t need new clothes.

    8. Any resistance training, whether it’s bodyweight or weight-weight, will increase your muscle size. While I have really enjoyed watching my butt lift and round, more muscle isn’t for everyone. The results you’re getting from bodyweight exercise may be enhanced by what you’re eating. Did you find that you ate more when you were doing boot camp? Powerlifters, bodybuilders, and other strength/aesthetics athletes tend to eat for performance, and that includes increased protein, carb cycling, and other strategies. If you aren’t feeding your muscles, they may not grow as fast. There is literally no way that you will accidentally end up looking like Dana Linn Bailey, so don’t be afraid of that please!

      “Feeling strong” is subjective, can you explain more what you mean by that?

    9. I just wanted to chime in to say that I think I get what look you’re going for – the skinny but toned look that a lot of distance runners and yoga instructors have – but that it’s not possible for all women to get that look. Some women have higher testosterone levels that make them prone to building bulkier muscles, or naturally retain a higher body fat composition that preclude the skinny look that shows off toned muscles. It’s ok. Do what makes you feel healthy, and dress for the body that goes with that feeling!

      1. Yup. In high school I took a class called “body sculpting” and one of the things that stuck with me was what we learned about body types: endomorph, ectomorph and mesomorph. How your body responds to different forms of exercise has a lot to do with your fundamental type. Some people can lift a lot without bulking up, some can do a ton of cardio but never look lean.

        If you have slopey shoulders and a flat rear and you start lifting, you may need to have your clothes altered. But if you have big square shoulders and a booty anyway (like I do), the effect of adding weight workouts won’t be very pronounced; you’ll just firm up the shape that’s already there.

        There’s actually a chapter that expands on this idea in the NROLFW book…

    10. I do body pump 3x per week and I have definitely filled out my size 2’s. At first I was very self concious because I used to pay so much attention to the scale. Once I started lifting, I gained weight and it was psyching me out, so I have stopped stepping on the scale. I do worry that I am bulking up, by my dh loves the way I look now vs. when I was just skinny. I also have a great butt for a 44 year old woman. My advice, start lifting and see what happens.

    11. I have heard that doing lower weights with higher reps gives more lean muscle while higher weights at lower reps gives a bulkier muscle but I have no idea if there is any truth to that.

      1. That’s garbage. Muscles can shrink and grow in response to stimulus or lack thereof. They don’t change shape as a result.

        OP – if you don’t eat above maintenance, you won’t get larger overall (thermodynamics!). But you may change shape, which could involve new clothes. :(

  14. I recently moved from a warm weather state to a (moderately) cold weather state (not Alaska – North Central US). I greatly anticipate freezing my a$$ off this winter. I’m seeking advice on what to purchase to stay toasty warm in the cold. What are your must haves? What’s worth the extra money? What are some items that a newbie like myself thinks I need, but can go without? Goose down coat? Flannel sheets? Expensive snow boots? Space heater? Snuggie?!?!

    Any recommendations are appreciated. Thanks!

    1. I live in the northeast, so not as cold as where you’re going, but one thing I love is my polar fleece sheets. I’d had flannel sheets in the past, but these are so much better. Light, warm. When you get in bed you feel like you’re all wrapped up in cotton wool. I got mine from QVC.

      1. I’m going to disagree on fleece sheets – maybe as a blanket, but I wouldn’t want polyester as the layer next to my skin.

        Also, don’t be afraid to wear thick socks to bed, flannel pjs (maybe not with flannel sheets, though, since they won’t slide nicely) or a hat if you are feeling cold.

        1. I always think of A Christmas Carol when I imagine wearing socks and a hat to bed! I’ll have to try it. Thanks MPLs!

        1. +1. And plug it in 10 min before bed. Nothing better than hopping into already warm sheets.

      2. Slight variation – electric mattress pad. Heats up the sheets without the extra bulk of another blanket on the bed.

    3. Must haves: Down comforter and silk long underwear, smart wool socks, and cozy slippers. Also, wear a hat, mittens, scarf outside whenever you feel cold. They make a huge difference.

    4. If you get a space heater, spring for at least mid-level (40-60 bucks). I made the mistake of buying a dinky little one and one day it sparked and fizzled and I was lucky that nothing caught fire. I lived in an old, drafty house, and a space heater + plastic sealed windows (diy, it’s really easy) made it perfectly balmy inside.

    5. Fleece tights, under armour, wool socks, long down coat, and anything cashmere or wool (cashmere sweaters are super warm). Boots to wear in the snow are very helpful, but they don’t need to be expensive. I wouldn’t spring for the expensive snow boots that look like nice riding boots or anything unless you are commuting by foot.

    6. It gets pretty chilly where I live in the winter- we feel -40 or colder for a few weeks every year, and our winter is also neverending- it was -8C this morning on my walk into work and I somehow have convinced myself that -8 is just “brisk”, and it usually snows into late-April. All this is to say that I know cold and winter.

      The best money I ever spent was on my Patagonia Tres Parka. I’ve had frends say the same about their Canada Goose jackets. Basically, the most important thing is a good jacket. I also really love wool socks (smartwool’s ski socks are my “regular” socks in the winter).

      You also need boots that will keep you warm and give you traction in snow and ice. I’m partial to Sorel, but I know there are lots of other good alternatives.

      Otherwise a good hat/scarf/mitten set will help a lot, and possibly a humidifier for inside, if your area is dry.

      Also, a mid-winter vacation to somewhere warm will help immensely.

    7. Random thoughts from a Rocky Mountain native:

      Electric blanket. My brother got me one for Christmas one year and it was an amazing thing on cold nights.
      GOOD socks and slippers. Wool on the first, fleece on the second.
      Maybe not a down coat (depending on where you are), but a good thick wool one. Make sure you can move in it, though.
      Snow chains for your tires. Also, replace your windshield wipers before the snow starts to hit, and replace your wiper fluid with a below-freezing varient.
      A gooooood down comforter. Nothing better than snuggling down into a big pile of cozy-warm fluff. :)
      Gloves, hat and scarf. Even if it’s not OMGFREEZING out, your fingers get cold FAST.

    8. Pinzon flannel sheets (on Amazon and an absolute steal at around $60 for a set) are made in Portugal, super cozy and very high quality. Versatile layers are useful- I like silk base layers. Cozy socks. A good down coat (I prefer knee-length in a more tailored fit with a belt). Hats, scarves, and LINED gloves/ mittens- unlined does nothing in the bitter cold.

      1. Two more things- a great pair of boots (warm and comfortable with good tread) and slippers- LL Bean’s Wicked Good slippers are amazing, and while they’re a bit pricier at around $70, they’ll replace them for life!

    9. various “weights” of under garments offered by winter silks

      polartec pullover tops from llbean landsend for casual

      flannel lines pants and jeans from the same places

      endorsing the slippers!

      wigwam socks and Varma rabbit angora socks (Icelandic) … marvelous for sleeping and hanging out at the house on the couch

      an oil filled radiator heater that travelled with me to every.single.room.in.the.house

      polartec zip up cuddly thing, like a snuggie but one piece so there’s no drafts … great atop pjs on the couch

      Good luck. While a transition, doing all the wintery activities I read about as a child was great fun. But then, I had to learn that snow is its prettiest when it is someone else’s to shovel instead of mine!

      Enjoy the glimmers of the season.

    10. Central and Southeast Alaska is warmer than the Midwest most of the time…trust me, I show my husband the weather forecasts every day, December – March. I’ve lived in WI or MN my entire life, and I think a good down parka, a nice dressy wool coat with thinsulate, Smartwool or cashmere blend socks, and good pack boots are all definitely worth it. I wear a lot of Polartec in the winter for casual stuff and have an embarrassing amount of grey cashmere sweaters. I like earmuffs a lot until it gets supercold (10F or less) and then I switch to hats. Earmuffs are nice because they don’t mess up your hair quite as much.

    11. I love my Sorel boots – super warm and a classic. If you are a 7.5 or under, try the Youth sizes. I also cannot recommend good gloves strongly enough – spend money on them and make sure they are wind-proof. I prefer earmuffs to hats for lower frizz factor. I have a pair of Ugg earmuffs that are super warm and relatively stylish.

      Non-clothes: humidifier (I’d never lived with the super dry heat produced by gas furnaces), flannel sheets, and a portable jump-starter (you can buy one for around $60 at Target and save yourself 3-4 hours of waiting for AAA on the mornings when everyone’s car won’t start – I keep mine in my front closet).

    12. Wow! What an awesome list! We really covered everything here – clothes, home, auto. You guys rock! I’m gonna look up each of these items and do a lot of online shopping. The only purchase I’m hesitant about are the sleeping socks, as I tend to kick off my left sock every night! Maybe the colder weather will teach left foot a lesson and change that bad habit. :) Please keep the recommendations coming! Thanks everyone!

      1. Sleeping in socks is my own version of hell. When my feet are really cold in the winter, I wrap a fleece throw around them so I can kick it off when I get too hot.

        1. Haha! Left foot agrees, Lucy! I may try to wrap my feet up instead. Thanks for the advice!

    13. I don’t like fleece tights. Somebody last year suggested layering two pairs of tights and it is genius. I now save my slightly worn or snagged pairs to wear as the bottom layer and find this a much better alternative than fleece rights. They don’t stretch or sag and seem to move better on my legs than fleece tights.

      Also, we had a random threadjack on day last winter about how the knee area tends to get cold while commuting when wearing boots, tights and a pencil skirt. Somebody suggested using leg warmers while commuting so I ordered two pair of leg warmers (one chocolate and one black) to keep my toasty on my driving commute to work.

      I also think a warm terry robe is essential.

    14. As a lifelong resident of the frozen tundra, I think you’ve already received some great tips. My advice is to make sure you keep your head, hands and feet warm and dry. There’s nothing worse than being stuck outside in the freezing cold with damp, freezing feet or mittens/gloves that are damp because you forgot to dry them the night before. Also, we buy disposable hand warmers by the box and keep them on hand throughout the winter and throw them in our pockets or boots for extra heat when we’re outside enjoying ‘nature’ in the winter.

      Remote start and heated seats in your vehicle are always a nice feature as well.

  15. I saw the recent comments and article about DVF wrap dresses. I’ve wanted one for a long time and was very excited to see several at my local N-strom Rack (pentagon city, FYI for dc readers!) However when I tried them on, they were all waaaay too tight on me! I went up two sizes from my usual and the dress still hugged every little lump I didn’t even realize I had. Is this a dvf thing? Is this why these dresses are at Rack? Any insight appreciated– I still really want one, but was pretty disappointed.

      1. Either $120 or $170– big spread, I know, but the store had a lot of Very Nice Clothes in and I went a little nuts in the dressing room.

        Thanks for the replies, maybe I’ll go try on again but with a slip. I tried both wrap style and a ruched sheath style (looks like the Bentley online). Both were way too tight to wear to work.

    2. It could be an undergarmet thing. If there are lumpy-squishies before you put on the dress (and any elastic separating them into unrestrained lumpy-squishies and free-range lumpy-squishies), the dress will just show what’s there.

      I find that I can wear her dresses with no-line UW on (that that includes any elastic that cuts across the tummy) (I like the ones from Soma with the silicone grippies on them) and a Shemie slip (also solves my camisole / unwrapping in wind issues). The sheaths can be cut awfully straight and the wraps seem to be more forgiving; the Reina dresses are more of a shift cut and pretty tummy and butt friendly.

      But silk jersey or the Gemma fabric (the BR wrap version) is just less forgiving than worsted wool overall.

      And the prints seem to be more forgiving than the solids due to the camoflauge (lordy — I am not sure how to spell that) effect of patterns.

    3. Were they too tight ( shoulders too narrow, not enough fabric to wrap) or just revealing? If they’re showing lumps and bumps (which silk jersey will do) a slip solves that.

    4. You don’t need to go up a size or two, they fit true to size. They are supposed to be slightly sexy, not loose.

      1. There was nothing sexy about the way these fit! But I see what you mean. Maybe they are mislabeled which is why they ended up at the Rack. Off to try with a slip.

      2. I’ve always gone up a size in dVf – they fit me the same way ANM. I’m busty and I think the line is cut for someone who isn’t. For me,they are date dresses not work.

        1. I am a 4 in BR and 8 sheaths in DVF are very body-conscious (but an 8 wrap works). I never got the Bentley to fit right on me.

          Once you know your size, ebay may be an option. I don’t have a DVF store near me and have done sales / returns from the DVF website. They have some good sales (if returns will be a factor). On e-bay, you can pay around $100 once you know which styles / sizes work for you (my dress I discuss above was a full-retail purchase at Saks and my first one).

        2. I’ve always gone up 2 sizes in DVF as well; most of my clothing is 8s or 10s but my DVF dresses are 12s. I’ve never had luck with the solid dresses but the prints hide lumps and bumps well for me. This one is 60% off at Nordstroms now: http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/diane-von-furstenberg-new-jeanne-two-print-silk-wrap-dress/3799923?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=480&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_2_A

    5. I have a DVF Julian (I think?) wrap dress, and I wear my normal size in it. I’ve been meaning to list it on eBay forever.

  16. Soda Stream question: for those that have one, how did you decide which one to get? There are a few different models and I am thinking of getting the most basic one but is there something I am not taking into consideration besides aesthetics?

    1. Some of them hold bigger carbonation cartridges, but if you’re an adult and will be using it for yourself I don’t think changing the cartridge is too burdensome. (If you had lots of kids using it you might want the bigger carbonation cartridge).

      We got the one that was in stock at the store. The Jet. It works.

    2. We got the cheapest one because it was all that was in stock at the time at BBB. We’re obsessed and I can’t imagine paying a heck of a lot more for another model because this one gets the job done just fine.

    3. We bought one on clearance at our local dept. store. It’s a basic model and it works just fine for what we want. I did buy a few extra bottles last year because my husband and I like different flavors. I’ve ordered syrups from Pittsburgh Soda and been happy with those, they are much better than the stock flavors.

    4. Some of them are taller than others – we were sure to get one that fit on our countertop/below the upper cabinets, but also held the 33oz canister (the Genesis). Have had it for almost a year and happy with it. FWIW, I wouldn’t suggest buying more than two of the bottles unless you drink a LOT of soda water or want lots of flavor options – they go flat faster than store-bought soda.

    5. I got the penguin, but solely because I liked how it looks on the counter and I like the glass container better than the plastic. there is now a second option that comes with the glass container.

      1. I love my penguin. He’s my little kitchen sentry! But it’s really not necessary to pay the premium. I do prefer the glass bottles though.

    6. I would get the cheapest model. I bought one about five years ago as a gift, and the company’s policy to to replace anything that breaks, so I would not worry about if one lasts longer than another. We have had both the bottles and the system replaced for free.

    7. I got the one that uses the glass bottles because they can be thrown in the dishwasher. I am pretty sure that the plastic bottles are hand wash only. I also just prefer glass and the looks of that machine over the other ones.

    8. Ours is probably 4 years old, so I don’t know the exact model. I only use it to make sparkling water. I found that the Coke and Diet Coke flavorings were terrible. I actually ended up throwing all of the flavors away, because they just did not taste good.

  18. Does anyone have experience purchasing from the Pure Collection catalogue? I am interested in some of their skirts and sweaters but am unsure about the sizing and quality. How is the sizing–typical U.S. vanity sizing (J. Crew, Ann Taylor, etc.) or closer to Boden’s U.S. sizing? And how does their cashmere hold up over time?

    1. I like it! I’d say they are not particularly “vanity sized” (I kinda hate that term but don’t know another shorthand expression for it); I have never sized down from my normal. The stuff is not form-fitting though. The few pieces I have, including one cashmere sweater, have been of good quality and have held up well (although I’d guess I had it for only 2 winters now). The cashmere quality is definitely better than the usual suspects in terms of tightness of the weave / not pilling. If I had endless funds, I would spring for the cashmere lounge pants…

    2. Late but I have one Pure Collection dress and love it. Great quality, great materials, really flattering fit. I’d say it’s pretty normally-sized? Can’t speak to the cashmere, though.

    3. Definitely more like Boden sizing. I think they might be part of the same company.

  19. I’m looking for recommendations for a watch to wear to work. I’m eyeing the new Tory Burch watches, but they are expensive. I’d like something that looks classic and understated. I have a preference for a rectangular face. Any suggestions?

    1. I love my skagen watches with mesh bands/straps. They are typically of a round face, but I did find this one with a rectangular dial. This is the link for a mixed metal with stainless steel strap and there’s another one that is rose gold. I believe they are also sold at department stores like macy.

      http://www.amazon.com/Skagen-Womens-SKW2218-Strand-Stainless/dp/B00KYSY4Z0/ref=sr_1_31?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1414512303&sr=1-31&keywords=women%27s+watches

      I feel that they wear well on daily use and have no problem just “blending in” rather than “standing out.” Not to be confused with all the recent jabber about women leaning in (grin).

        1. Me three. Love my Skagen. (Purchased a different model at Bloomingdales for $100, FWIW)

      2. I have ridiculously small wrists (as in – I can wear a children’s bracelet and it’s a little tight but adult ones fall off my wrists)… I recently had my 5 year anniversary at my company (YAY!) and I am picking through a catalog for a gift and I found a Skagen mesh band watch I really like but doesn’t that mean I can’t take links out? If I can’t make it smaller, it’s not an option for me. :(

        1. You sound like me! I have a mesh-band watch from Skagen and the store I bought it from adjusted it for me. You adjust it so that the mesh band doubles up a bit (on the inside of your wrist), but it looks just fine and feels fine as well.

    2. There were a lot of people at my work this summer with Skagen watches, and I can see why. They’re lovely.

      (I went for one of the Fossil ‘boyfriend’ watches since I’ve another two years of college and I thought it would look better with jeans)

  20. Does anyone use box color on their hair regularly? Which brand do you like? I’m looking for a good chocolate brown without too much red in it to take my hair into a more winter shade. Any recommendations?

    1. I hate red in my brown hair and my hairdresser puts a toner in to knock out any red. I don’t know if you can do that in the box version, but might be worth adding another step if you can.

        1. I googled red hair toner box or something and there are all kinds of DIY instructions.

    2. It’s more involved than box color, but I go to a beauty supply store (like Sally) and buy mixable colors in ash tones to counteract the red tint of my hair. I use Wella Color Charm and mix medium ash brown and dark ash brown to match my natural hair color (not exactly half for half, the dark is really dark). It’s harder than just buying a box (you have to buy developer, color, and then the supplies) but I find it looks better. Also, much easier to touch up my roots when necessary.

      Disclaimer: I’m pretty comfortable with dyeing my hair (thank you, high school punk phase).

      1. There’s a Sally’s near my place… Ill check it out. Thanks Annelin!

    3. I use Garnier Belle Color – I don’t know if you can get it where you are? Shade 6 is my favourite light brown but there are lots of darker browns too. It’s great and leaves my hair feeling soft and smelling lovely.

      1. I think Garnier is doing something right. A lot of the box color review websites give that brand high marks but its good to ask non-biased sources. Thanks LilyStudent!

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