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Something on your mind? Chat about it here.
(Our suggestion for casual clothing this week are these great boots by Wanted — perfect for wearing with leggings or skinny jeans. We have a pair ourselves, and they're comfortable, and the quality is decent for the price. They're part of the great “Best of Boots” sale that Piperlime is having right now — were $80, now $39.99. Wanted Turbo Boots (They're also on sale at Endless
.)
Emily
I’m really, really looking forward to a long weekend away with my husband this spring to celebrate our 10th anniversary. I’d like to bring something sexy to surprise him with – a daring dress to go to dinner in and some lingerie for “dessert.” Does anyone have any suggestions other than the usual suspects (i.e., Victoria’s Secret) for either of these?
EAC
For lingerie –Agent Provocateur or Kiki De Montparnasse. Might be a little daring and a little pricey, but if this is for your 10th anniversary, why not. Of course these sites are NSFW.
AIMS
I don’t know how much you’re willing to spend, or where you’re located, but agent pravocateur is amazing. They have an amazing store in NYC, and they also have a website I think.
I believe there might even be a sale. If you ask me, it’s a million times better than anything VS has to offer, both in terms of sex appeal & quality. Its expensive, but if you find something on sale, it’s in my opinion quite reasonable for a special occasion & will be well worth it!
Dresses are more of a go out & look kind of thing. I’d get the undergarments first, and then plan a dress around that. Just find a nice department store (Bloomies & L&T both have nice “going out” dresses & also both have great sales around this time of year).
Congrats on making it 10 years!! Here’s to many, many more! :)
AIMS
Just google it.
They do have a website & are having quite the sale, too.
http://www.agentprovocateur.com
EAC
LOL!! The mods held up my reply- I had suggested the same place.
IronB
Me too! Although not 10th, I’m looking for the same sorts of things for a cruise I’m taking with my Hubby (1st cruise ever!) and would like to pick up some lingerie etc…but I am quite curvy (ya, I know, overweight) large busted (mostly DD, sometimes bigger) and have trouble finding stuff I like that actually fits.
Ideas?
Erin M.
Try looking on barenecessities.com or figleaves.com. They carry a wide range of sizes, and also have tips on how to measure yourself so you get the right size bra.
Toni
I’m also “curvy” and my husband has been quite happy with lingerie that I’ve bought at hipsandcurves.com (he actually found the site).
Anonymous
MYLA NY also has a great selection, and a website!
Emily
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone! I’ve checked them all out and found some beautiful and fun things – exactly what I had in mind. Unfortunately we’ve blown the budget on the actual trip, so I can’t justify spending too much on something I hope to wear for only a short time – wink, wink – alas, I’ll have to go with the more moderately priced brands. Definitely keeping the luxury items in mind for the 20th or 25th anniversary, though!
associate
Anybody have tips on conducting an effective interview? I’m an associate interviewing candidates for a clerkship position and will be providing recommendations to the higher-ups.
meg
trust your instincts – is this someone you want working for / with you? if they need specific skills (e.g., word processing or excel) think up a “how do you..” type of question to test if they actually know what is on their resume. If it’s on their resume its fair game – they should be fluent in anything they claim.
divaliscious11
Ughh…I have four interviews to conduct next week… one with a woman who has been practicing 3x as long as I have….
I’ve interviewed candidates, but none who’ve been practicing that much longer than I have …. any guidance from the senior folks?
ps..Boots are cute…may get them!
North Shore
The less you talk, the better. You don’t want to sit there listening to yourself — the goal is to find out about the candidate. Ask questions to elicit past performance rather than thoughts or feelings, so “give me an example of how you have handled a difficult client” rather than “how do you like your clients.”
Erin M.
I interview lawyers with much more experience than I have all the time, because I frequently hire consultants/independent contractors for projects. I actually find experienced attorneys much easier to interview than law students or new attorneys. They’re more focused, tend to know why they want the job, and they aren’t nervous. I’m over-generalizing here, but entry-level candidates tend to really need a job and can be much harder to figure out; more seasoned candidates tend to be looking for a good fit, not just a paycheck.
A major red flag would be if the candidate is condescending or annoyed that she’s being interviewed by someone junior to her. Also, don’t allow yourself to be wowed if she has a really impressive resume. She might be amazing, but senior-level positions tend to be more specialized than entry-level ones, and so make sure she has the right experience to prepare her for the specific position instead of just a lot of fantastic, but not relevant, experience.
divaliscious11
You hit the nail on the head. We are replacing someone who, while she had significantly more years of practice, had the same title that I did, and was actually lower in the hierarchy, and she never missed an opportunity to make snide/snarky comments (her favorite was reminding me she’d graduated from law school before I finished high school – ugh! – I know, but alas, I am training you….) about it and, well, it didn’t go unnoticed….
It IS a more specialized position, but it is a niche of what I did before I was promoted, so I have to participate.
Erin M.
Yeah, when I hire these consultants, they are much more specialized than I am in the particular area of law that they’re going to be working on. However, they’ll report to me and I’ll edit their work. Obviously they’re the experts and I respect that, but they have to be cool with my deciding to rewrite or change their work product. I can’t deal with someone who’s going to be a pain about that.
ARinFL
My favorite (and always last) question when conducting interviews was to ask the candidate to tell me something interesting and non-work related about themselves that I would not know from reading their resume or from our conversation. I got some of the neatest answers – volunteer projects, travel stories, environmental initiatives, things people were passionate about, etc. Plus, it’s a good indication of the person as a whole – what is the first thing they think of, how do they respond to non-work related questions, how do they respond to questions they likely had not planned for, how passionate are they, do they have good extracurricular activities, general non-work communication skills, etc., etc., etc. It also will help weed out the duds. Once, I had a guy respond and say, “Huh. Well, I don’t really know. What exactly do you want know.” I was just like, you have GOT to be kidding! LOL He did not get hired!
Erin M.
Yes. If personality and fitting in is a big issue, you definitely should ask this type of question. You need to get a feel for what the candidate would be like hanging out around the break room at lunch time.
Anonymous
wow i HATE that question. If I wanted to discuss something it’d be on my resume, and really who cares about my non-work interests (plus I guess I’d need to make up some non-work interests that sound normal and fun?) So it’s probably just me, but please, don’t ask that question, it’ll make some of us suffer…
anon
Fredericks has great sales and stuff can be super cheap. If you wanted to go really nice, look at Agent Provacateur or Journelle. If you’re in NYC, I think La Petite Coquette is having sales right now.
Oh, and maybe get a Brazilian for a nice surprise, also…
ARinFL
Okay ladies… I am in need a bit of advice. I have gotten myself an interview in Georgia (woohoo!) – not in a law firm, but in a corporate-type firm. I will be flying up that morning and back that evening, and have been asked to plan to spend the majority of the work day (about 5 hours) interviewing. I have been given no indication of what to expect (except that I will obviously be with them for 5 hours, including lunch). So, I need advice on the following:
1. How to look put together and professional after traveling 4 hours to get to the interview. Any tips, tricks, or advice?
2. I am planning to wear a black skirt suit. But it will likely be cold and maybe snowy. I live in Florida. I don’t really own any cold-weather clothing (and if I get the job, I wouldn’t be moving either). Do I wear, like, gloves and scarfs and all that?? I dont’ how to brave the winter weather and still look professional!! How do you guys handle wearing heels with a skirt when it’s icky and COLD?
3. What kind of bag do I bring? I want to bring my computer to work on plane, etc., but I don’t think I’ll want to lug it around with me all day. Remember, I’ll be flying to get there that morning (and flying home). Should I just bring my purse? Or maybe my tote-purse….?
4. Help, tips, advice re 5-hour interviews! Anyone?
I have read the previous threads and, while some of this is sort of addressed, some of it is not. Particularly the 5-hour interview, after flying all morning part. LOL
Thanks in advance!
Jenny
Take a nice black tote, not a purse. You will need room for supplies -especially comfortable shoes for the airport. You don’t want to start out the big day with blisters!
s-k-s
First, as someone buried in snow right now, I wish I lived somewhere in the country that thought of Georgia as cold and wintry!! I doubt you will have to walk too far – I’m assuming you are cabbing it from the airport – so you kind of just have to suck it up and try to get indoors as soon as possible. If you do buy things, get a nice, work-appropriate winter coat – there are a lot on sale right now.
I was in that situation not too long ago – here’s what I did that worked out pretty well:
(1) Pack a carry-on for your laptop and whatever else you need for the day that is relatively small and looks fairly professional, like a nice lap-top bag, in addition to whatever you want to carry around the interview with you.
(2) At the firm’s offices, ask the receptionist if you can leave the bag with her all day. She will probably also take your coat if you are wearing one.
(3) I packed travel-size cleanser, moisturizer and all my make-up in my carry-on. Once I was through security I had about half an hour before boarding the flight, and I got ready in the airport bathroom. It felt kind of odd putting on full makeup in there, but it really saved me time so I could sleep in a little later, and I felt fresh and confident when I met everyone.
The people I was interviewing with were super-nice and understood I’d been travelling all day, was missing work to come interview with them, etc. They actually offered me an office there if I wanted to keep working after the interview (they knew I had a few hours before I had to be at the airport to fly home). Obviously I didn’t take them up on that offer, but just keep in mind that they understand what you are doing and won’t think its strange if you are carrying a laptop bag or something similar.
J
1. Wrinkle-free clothing. Take a small bag of make-up essentials, and don’t bother putting it on until you get to Georgia.
2. I don’t think it’s cold enough in Georgia for scarf/gloves. I was in ATL about this time last year, and I think a moderate coat was all I needed. Then again, I’m from the North, so I’m used to 30 degrees. I think it’s unlikely you’ll be spending much time outside, anyway — sounds like you’ll be swept up from the airport to a cab to the office and then back, so I don’t think I’d bother going out and buying anything that you don’t already own. Wear pantyhose (I assume you would anyway for an interview), and close-toed heels (again, I assume this is the default for interviewing), and you shouldn’t freeze. I seriously doubt you’ll be trudging blocks and blocks.
3. Can you live without your computer? I would try, if possible. Since you’re not staying over night, there isn’t a hotel where you’ll be able to dump stuff, and I wouldn’t count on there being somewhere easy you could put it while you interview. I’d rather go a day without working than lug all that stuff around. Your flight’s not that long, right?? I’d bring a tote-purse, which I assume is relatively small but will still hold, for example, extra copies of your resume, portfolio, etc.
4. I presume that part of the 5 hours will be spent at lunch, which will still be part of the interview, but won’t be the typical barrage of questions, you’re totally on the spot experience during that time. If you think about it as a 3 hour interview + lunch, that may seem less intimidating. You may meet with multiple people over those several hours, so although you might have the same conversation over and over again, it will all feel very fast. I interviewed for 5 hours at my law firm, and I can tell you it was one of the quickest days of my life.
KLo
Last year was unseasonably warm in the ATL area – I would do gloves and maybe a pashmina if you’re not used to the cold. And then you can use the wrap again in cold AC (remember, ATL is in the north Georgia mountains, and the elevation can make it colder) . According to weather.com, it should be in the upper 40s, lower 50s and rainy – that could be cold. I’ve got nothing for 1, 3 & 4 that others haven’t already said, but a wrap and whatever jacket you own with gloves should be more than plenty. Good luck!
Cat
1. Don’t put on a full face of makeup for the flight – maybe I just always feel sticky, but I like leaving eyeshadow, eyeliner, blush, and a lipstick touch-up for the bathroom upon arrival. I’d wear a blouse or other ok-on-its-own top so that you can take your jacket off for the flight. If you have the space (especially if you’ll bring a second bag, see below) you may be happier wearing nice flats for the traveling. If there’s a risk that any bad weather may impede you getting home, stick in extra undies / hose.
2. How much time do you really estimate being outside? Will you likely be walking to lunch in a city? I’d suggest gloves, but you don’t need to invest in a bunch of other stuff for just a few minutes outside. And I mean this in the nicest way possible, but try not to dwell on how COLD!!! it is — you’re trying to fit in, not remind everyone you’re from out of town.
3. When I was interviewing, I’d often ask the receptionist if there was a place to keep my tote — there’s usually a closet, or at least they’ll stick it behind their desk. Especially understandable because you’re flying! Then you can just carry a lighter weight tote around for the day (hard to keep resumes nice in a purse, plus a tote just feels more businesslike). OR, if you’re worried you’ll be leaving straight from somewhere (stranding your laptop) — remember you won’t be on your feet, laptop on shoulder, THAT much during the day.
4. I’m guessing it won’t be hours-long straight with any one person and that you’ll either be walked around the office or people will change places in the conference room. Remember names (interviewer #4 always likes to ask who else you’ve spoken to!) and don’t worry about telling similar stories twice… more likely than not the group did not compare questions beforehand. Good luck :)
AIMS
1. I would wear something that will then take up almost no space to shove in a bag (leggings & tee? or if you’re wearing a shell/sweater under the suit, wear that on the plane) and take the suit itself w/me in a dry cleaning type bag so that it does not wrinkle. At the airport, change & you will look nice and freshly pressed. Toss the dry cleaning bag (or if you want to take it in one of those suit carrying cases, check the suit carrying case . . . and, now that I think about it, whatever clothes you wore on the plane, into a storage locker for the day). Also, bring mositurizer with you on the plane — planes are very dry & you don’t want to look dehydrated & tired. Personally, I really like to get those moisture sprays for plane trips (sephora has travel sized ones from Avian to rehydrate your skin & look fresh while on the plane).
2. Check the weather. How cold will it be? Can you get away with a trench coat? A warm wrap? Is a winter coat strictly necessary? Can you borrow something appropriate (e.g., a neutral colored trench) from a friend? I would imagine you can get away without a winter coat, esp. if you are driving there and back (or taking a cab) and do not anticipate going outside. Can you find out whether the lunch will be at the corp. or will you be going out somewhere? That will help.
I live in NYC & I only wear hat/gloves on very, very cold days. I would think you’d be fine without them in Georgia. Just make sure you wear classic shoes that will not look summery (i.e., black/brown pumps, not peep toes or sling backs, etc.)
3. If the airport has storage lockers, you can check in your laptop — thus having it on the plane, but not having to lug it around. If you’re renting a car for the day, you can leave everything in the trunk. Both good options. I would recommend not bringing the laptop with you to the actual interview. They will probably give you a walking tour at some point (if it’s 5 hrs.) and you don’t want to carry that around as you meet people, etc.
4. Other tips ?? Don’t order something messy for lunch. Eat before you get there — odds are you will be talking all through lunch and won’t have time to enjoy or even really eat your food. Bring some tic tacs. Do bring a simple bag/tote, but one that won’t get in your way if you have to carry it around & shake hands, etc. Don’t wear too much perfume or bright lipstick that will wear off half way through the meeting (you don’t want to have to keep excusing yourself to re-apply), or really any make up that requires too much upkeep (e.g., eyeshadow that will run, etc). Wear powder even if you normally dont – it will keep everything in place.
Don’t complain about your flight, the weather, etc. Remain positive and energetic. Try not to be too nervous! If they’re flying you out & spending most of the day with you, it probably means they are very serious about you & want to hire you! Just keep telling yourself that, and you will be great!
Good luck!!!!
Anon
No lockers/baggage storage at the Atlanta airport (if that is where you’ll be flying into) so you wouldn’t be able to change at the airport and leave a bag there.
http://www.atlanta-airport.com/forms/passenger/frmPassengerInformation_LockersStorage.aspx
M in CA
I second all of this, especially changing into the suit, or at least part of it, at the airport (I assume AIMS meant the arrival airport, not departure). At the very least, if it were me, I would wear different shirt/shoes for traveling than I would for the interview, and carry the interview shirt and suit coat wrapped in the dry cleaning plastic. Despite my best efforts (clinical-strength anti-perspirant every night, regular anti-perspirant every day) I have a tendency to sweat, especially when traveling, and I know that showing up to an interview in clothes I just traveled in would mess with my confidence.
For travel-sized makeup, Bare Escentuals makes some really nice stuff for traveling. I really like their spray-on moisturizer.
divaliscious11
Not sure why it will take you four hours to fly to Georgia from Florida, but barring abnormal weather, Georgia will only be marginally cooler than Florida, unless you are in south Florida, but again, its your neighboring state. That said, I’d wear a comfortable mid-height heel with my suit. A wrap scarf that is not bulky, and that you can fold and place neatly in your tote, is probably all you’ll need, again barring abnormal weather, otherwise an overcoat should provide you enough protection/warmth etc…
I’d eat something light before the interview, and pace yourself emotionally. (I’d also bring anti-bacterial as you’ll probably be shaking lots of hands and meeting with several people.) Don’t stress out – if you got the interview, then there probably isn’t an issue with whether you have the skill set. So be yourself, thats who they’d like to see….
Delta Sierra
A wrap scarf that can sub as a light coat is a great idea, folds up flat into your tote bag. I’d take a regular handbag and a tote. Also consider, how long will you actually be outdoors? Quick scuttle from airport to cab or whatever, quick scuttle inside. In Georgia? Quite bearable.
SF_girl
I’ll second the advice about pacing yourself emotionally. If you get too stressed out for the first two interviews, you will be exhausted by the time you’re talking to the last set of people. I would bring a granola bar or something else easy that you can eat in a restroom stall, especially if your normal eating schedule is already out of whack from traveling. If you do that, remember to check your teeth in the mirror on the way out (maybe bring floss). And don’t be shy about asking for water from the receptionist when you get there (you might even want to bring your own), because you’ll be talking for a long time.
Erin M.
I would actually call HR ahead of time, let them know that you’re flying in that morning, and ask if there is a place you can store a small bag during the day. Assuming the answer is yes, I’d travel in comfy clothes with your neatly pressed suit and nice shoes in a garment bag, then change at the airport after you land. That way your suit will not be wrinkled or dirty. Store your bag with HR, and then change back when you get back to the airport. Carry a professional tote or just a portfolio to the interviews.
I’ve had similarly scheduled interviews, and every time I’ve been able to leave a small suitcase with HR, no problem.
For the question about your outerwear – is someone from the firm picking you up at the airport, or are you taking a cab or public transit? If the latter, AND if you’re certain you won’t be going out of the building for lunch, just wear whatever jacket you have, and when you arrive at the firm, take it off before you go inside and put it in the bag you’ll leave with HR. If the former, or if you’re going to go out to lunch, then wear a nice-looking coat. Don’t worry about gloves, hat, etc if you don’t own them. You won’t possibly have to be outside for so long that you will be seriously uncomfortable without them.
Also, if you don’t own a nice coat, perhaps you can borrow one from a classmate or friend who hails from the north.
Good luck!
Erin M.
Oh, and make sure to wear pantyhose, and carry an extra pair and a small bottle of clear nail polish in your interview bag, just in case.
ARinFL
Ladies, thank you so much! I have decided to definitely carry my suit with me and change and finish getting ready in the ATL airport…
In answer to some of the questions… The four hour travel time counts from when I leave home to when I get to Atlanta. I live in very southern Florida and the weather is extraordinarily different down here. But, your comments have definitely helped me feel that I won’t look ridiculous if I don’t have gloves or a scarf (I do have a decent looking black coat, thankfully). I am planning to cab it from the airport, so I shouldn’t be outside all that long. There is no way for me to know whether we will walk to lunch or not. But I figure that as long as my shoes are comfy, I shouldn’t worry about the cold too much (thanks Cat!). :)
I am going to see if I can find a good tote that would hold my computer, as well. Recommendations welcomed! I have a small Mac, so it doesn’t take up too much room.
I love the suggestions of spray on moisturizer. I’ll check out Bare Escentuals… Thanks, M. And the suggestions to eat something when I get there. That will certainly help with the lunch part of the interview.
Thanks so much everyone. It’s not until the first week in March, so I’ll let you know how it goes in a month or so!!
Atlanta
I’m in Atlanta. Not sure if that is where you’re going, but if it is:
It’s been cold here (for Georgia) – down to the high 20s/low 30s at night and 40s during the day. Unless you know something I don’t, or are going to the north georgia mountains, you won’t have to worry about snow (or ice). If the company you are interviewing with is located in Downtown or Midtown, you’ll probably be walking to a nearby restaurant for lunch, so keep that in mind when you decide whether you want gloves, etc.
Although it would be great if you could leave your heavier bag with the receptionist, there are no guarantees this will happen. I know you want to work on the plane, but if I were you, I’d streamline to a small professional tote with only the essentials (resumes, notepad, personal items, etc.) and pick up whatever magazine relaxes you the most to read on the plane. That way, if there’s nowhere to stash your bag, you don’t feel awkward carrying it around.
Lawgirl
If I could afford it, I’d fly in the day before and get hotel room. What’s the worst it could be, $100 on Priceline? I HATE going straight from the airport to important meetings. I hate the anxiety and stress of airport security, boarding, rush-rush-rush, walk-walk-walk. I also feel somewhat sick/queasy/ill after flying. I do much better when I sleep in the city where my meeting is, wake up the next day, get a breakfast, settle my nerves, and get there early and ready to roll… Good luck!!
Delta Sierra
Ok, we got boots (very nice, but I can’t do boots: sweaty feet) at the top of the page here, so let me ask, please, as part of my ongoing mission of How Not to Look Frumpy at Fifty-something. What is the word on boot skirts these days? Shaped like this: http://www.orvis.com/store/product.aspx?pf_id=54HC. Fitted at the waist and sits smoothly on the hips, flares out a bit towards the hem. I love the way the fabric flaps around my legs, very graceful. I don’t have to yank the skirt into place when I sit down. Kindly to tummy bulges if it fits properly. (This too is being sold as a boot skirt, but the way it hangs is just awful: http://www.orvis.com/store/product.aspx?pf_id=79X3)
Anonymous
while i love (and wear) long skirts, skirts like that don’t look “au courant” right now.
MelD
I don’t think I’ve seen anyone wear them for several years. I think the only long skirts that are in right now are the more flowy, casual variety that would be more appropriate with flip flops than at work.
divaliscious11
Oh dear…those look like the “cool young nun” skirts, i.e… the ones the younger nuns who taught gym etc…. and wore a skirt, white long sleeve shirts, not a full habit…
sorry!
Cat
Agree that the style looks dated, and it is an instant stumpifier because of where it hits the leg. A skirt that hits JUST below the knee would be more flattering, and still no need to constantly monitor when you sit down.
Lawgirl
I bought a suede “boot skirt” from Coldwater Creek after I had my 2nd baby (2005). Wore it once and got rid of it… I do remember wearing long Outback Red skirts with boots when I was in high school (1987/88). Those were the BOMB. LOL. Now folks wear sweater dresses with tall boots and straight skirts with boots (tall or slouchy), but long skirts, not-so-much.. :-)
Lynette
Oh my!!! Outback Red— I remember that brand at the Limited. Uh oh, I think I’m dating myself.
Delta Sierra
Thanks to you all. We come to Corporette to find out how to dress to put across a certain impression, and I’m glad to know how things look to other people.
divaliscious11
Outback Red!!! We are totally the same age!! LOL I think I may have you by a year or so…
A Different Liz
Outback Red! Wow, that brings back some memories…
Erin M.
Those styles just scream Pentecostalist to me.
I think long skirts are fine, and I have a black one I wear sometimes with a suit, but those particular ones you linked to are not fashionable or work-appropriate.
MelD
It makes me think of Nikki from Big Love or Michelle Duggar. Not really the look I think any of us particularly want to have.
D
I had my ears pierced when I was 10 after begging my parents. Not less than a year later, I stopped wearing earrings and the holes completely closed up. However, I still look like I have pierced ears- two little holes on the lobes. I get earrings for gifts all the time, which annoys me to no end.
I have a couple of questions:
Is it strange not to have pierced ears as a professional woman?
Has anyone ever had their ears re-pierced?
If I do re-pierce, should I get them done in the same place on the lobe? Because I had them done at one of those mall stands, they are slightly crooked. Which is worse: appear to have two holes in one lobe or crooked earrings?
Nina
I had an ear piercing close up after not wearing earrings for a while, and ended up getting it repierced a bit lower (unintentionally) than the original hole. I would have preferred it in the same place, but it also doesn’t look weird as it is. Years later, there’s no apparent “double hole” visible. So, I’d say if you want to reposition the piercing, go for it–you’ll feel better about how your earrings look.
However, I don’t think it’s weird for you to have unpierced ears if that’s what you prefer.
MelD
I had my ears pierced when I was in middle school and no longer wear earrings because I have a metal allergy and the metals I can wear are not in my price range. I don’t really wear any jewelry as a result. I know others who also have metal allergies, so I don’t think it’s that uncommon to have unpierced ears.
Anon
I’m in the same boat–my mom had my ears pierced when I was an infant, and now I rarely ware earrings (formal occasions only). I don’t think it looks too weird to have empty ears if the rest of you is pulled together. Especially if you are a no-frills type of gal anyway, like me.
Erin M.
It’s unusual, but not strange, not to have pierced ears. Better to have straight earrings. I don’t think two holes in one lobe would be visible because the earring would cover up the old hole.
ab68
I’ve never had pierced ears and I get earrings for gifts, too. The only time it ever came up in a somewhat professional setting was when I was working in another country and someone asked whether I was Mormon because I did not have pierced ears. I definitely don’t think it’s strange for a professional woman not to have pierced ears, whether for religious, health, or personal preference reasons.
SA
I had my ears re-pierced after about 10 years of having them closed. I got it in the exact same spot and you’d never be able to tell they were ever closed – I did it at the mall but gave the teenager doing it a very stern demand that she do it in the EXACT same spot. I love wearing earring now and think it does look more professional.
mille
I would go to a tattoo/piercing shop to get them redone. I’ve had my piercings reopened a few times and it is much better with a needle. I had to have my tongue repierced when the hole closed up less than a minute after the ring was taken out to replace it with another. That wasn’t pleasant.
ARinFL
I sort of re-pierced them myself about a year or so ago. My holes were about halfway closed. I bought good piercing earrings and just stuffed them in and cleaned them daily. But I am also sensitive to most metals. I bought a super-nice pair of cuffs and just leave them in all the time now, unless I’m dressing up so something special.
Chicago K
I would second the comment about going to a peircing shop…they will typically do a much better job than going to the mall stand types.
And as side note…the peircings may be slightly crooked because your ears aren’t exactly the same…and making them slightly off makes them hang the same distance. I know mine are like this (I asked about it), so I can’t be the only one.
em
I have a similar question. I got my ears pierced when I was 10 and spent elementary and middle school wearing too-big, heavy earrings that were “in” with the girls at my school at the time. Now I have really stretched-out holes and even if I’m just wearing simple studs, people tell me my earring is about to fall out unless I press the back really tight against my ear, which a) pinches or b) leaves a long sharp piece of metal uncovered by the earring back to poke into my neck. Is there anything I can do about this?
RS
I believe I’ve seen small plastic spacers that act like the washer for a bolt that can be placed on the back of the earring before you clip the back on.
ClerkChic
I need a great white blouse. I’d like it to be conservative but not boring…no belle sleeves or anything pirate-y. It needs to look sharp under a suit and classy with jeans. In a perfect world it would be “stain resistant” and “no iron.” Have any of you wonderful Corporette readers stumbled across such a blouse?
luluaj
I’d try the Brooks Brothers outlet. I have a white non-iron tailored fit shirt from there and I love it. It never wrinkles. Simply wash on delicate, and dry on hanger. Amazing. I have a plan to stock up on one in every color when I have the cash.
A Different Liz
Second the BB no-iron shirt suggestion. I have three and I love them. I wash them on delicate, dry on low heat, and hang immediately after drying with the top button buttoned.
Canadian3L
Brooks Brothers all the way. You can get really good deals at the outlets (we don’t have them in Canada, but I trek to NY for them!). I have bought the non-iron shirts from Banana and have been dissapointed (they gape on me, and with the variety of fits to choose from at Brooks Brothers I don’t have that problem).
Lynette
These aren’t high-end brands, but maybe there is something among their suggestions that you could use?
http://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing/wardrobe-basics/white-shirts-under-sixty-dollars-00000000026698/index.html
Sarah
I’ll 2nd the Brooks Brothers outlet non-iron shirts. They fit really nicely, hold their shape, button all the way up, and are generally awesome. They have them both in french cuffs and regular cuffs, I’m pretty sure. And I can attest, looks great with suit and jeans. :-)
Otherwise, some of my friends swear by Victoria’s Secret. I’ve never tried them, however.
Erin M.
I have some no-wrinkle button fronts from Lands End that fit that description. I spray OxyClean on any spills or stains and it comes right out in the wash.
dr
You might also look at Nordstrom’s ‘foxcroft’ line of button blouses. Many on sale lately as we turn towards spring in the closet.
AH
I am curious as to the direction of Corporette. I am happy to read the articles that have a professional slant, but am a little disappointed to see the “What kind of lingerie should I wear for my anniversary date with my husband?” It’s more Cosmo than Corporette. And there’s a reason I don’t read Cosmo.
I plead with other posters that this not become just another women’s social hour where we ask advice for floral arrangements at our weddings, start arguing about breast feeding, and what kinds of gifts our husbands would like. I can go to literally thousands of other websites for that. This is the only one, however, that consistently delivers great career and career/fashion advice for women. Please don’t water it down.
Anyone agree? Disagree? Let’s start a conversation.
Lynette
You know, we’ve discussed everything from what to wear to a funeral, what makeup brand should be used to replace a discontinued one, to how much we love our slow cookers and I have always enjoyed reading what the other women have to say. As with anything…..take what you need and leave the rest.
AH
I didn’t love the funeral topic either (though was it a coworker?). The others had a distinct tie in with work, even the slow cookers.
I hear you on the “take what you need and leave the rest.” I have been so spoiled with this site that until recently, it seemed like most everything was worth reading and I’m disappointed in the change.
Erin M.
I see the comments, especially on open threads, as a place for smart, professional women of a certain income bracket to discuss issues of common interest. A discussion of lingerie falls into that area of common interest. It’s not like C put up an entire post about it.
EAC
Ruh Roh!! Is there a certain income level one must meet in order to follow this blog? :0) Must I pack up my toys and find another sandbox?
Erin M.
I think it goes without saying that the average reader of this site is in a professional career and has disposable income to spend on the types of items featured on this site (or, perhaps, is a student aspiring to a professional career). Sorry if this offends you, but it seems to be C’s intention.
From the About Corporette page, linked at the top of the page:
After a few years of working near Wall Street, Corporette noticed that young professional women had a few things in common no matter where they lived or who they worked for…
they had plenty of money but no time; they had to deal with extremely onerous demands at the office, and they were generally expected to be on 24/7.
Lynette
Of course not. It’s a free country. Follow which ever blogs speak to you.
L
I think the weekend free-for-all is, well, a free-for-all. C sticks to the professional slant issues, which we love. Through the comments on those issues, I find it’s almost like I’m getting to know the readers. Therefore, if I have a burning question, I’d probably post it in the weekend section. It’s a great place to get advice from an anonymous group of readers that I trust. Similar to other comments, if you want to stick to just professional issues, read C’s posts and not the weekend section.
Amy
Wow.
This is the “weekend open” thread. I thought that meant people could discuss more or less anything they wanted to, especially apparel-related.
I don’t know how your life is, but my life is not all about work. I have a husband, a child, good friends, and family members who are important to me. I have a consulting business that puts me in contact with many different types of people. I have all kinds of different social and business occasions to attend. I travel for both business and pleasure on a regular basis. I very much enjoy the “work-focused” discussions on Corporette, but frankly, work is one part of my life and one part of who I am. I am a fairly conservative person with my dress and so this is a place I trust to get answers from other women who are also conservative dressers about what to wear in a given situation.
Regarding the lingerie topic – those of us who have husbands do sometimes want fresh ideas about what to wear when we’re with them outside the office. Similar to the people who asked about what to wear to their husbands’ holiday parties.
I’m sorry if work is your whole, entire life – really and truly, I am, because that’s a God-awful miserable existence. I have a lot of respect for the women who post here, and think that there are a lot of different people bringing divergent opinions into the mix. Very honestly, I think this is C’s blog, and it’s up to her to decide the topics of conversation. The Internet’s a wide-open market of ideas, so if you don’t like the direction Corporette is going, you can always start your own blog, and be really strict about having ONLY “work-related” discussions on it. I don’t think you’ll end up with much of a reader community, though, because generally people don’t like being told, when they’re participating in a contributer-led discussion space, what they can and can’t talk about. My $.02.
MLB
Plus, if you aren’t interested in reading about lingerie, you can skip that question and the responses — computers have this cool little mouse thing that lets you scroll down . . . you should try it.
ARinFL
LMAO.
E
One thing to add, which I think has been alluded to; I work in a very male dominated field and after an average of 80 hours/week, go home to a wonderful husband and son. I feel victorious if I make it to the gym. I have very little room in my life for the few female friends I have. Not to get all schlocky, but I see corporette as a place where I spend a little bit of female focused me time each day. And as I’ve followed Corporette over the last year or so, I’ve come to realize that I share the same sensibilities with a lot of the women who comment. I don’t know about anyone else, but this community serves a function in my life that I can’t fulfill in the real world. I trust these women to give me fashion advice, and other than my very fashion forward husband, I really don’t have anyone else to do it. I feel like on the weekend open thread anything even remotely work related or fashion related goes.
Rachel
I like all the topics. I’d rather get lingerie recommendations from professional women with a similar price point than from random women who don’t already share a certain taste level. I’d rather hear about slow cooker recipes from other women who live my life than from someone who wants me to cook for 4 hours and stir (no, I need it to be able to cook for roughly 8 to 14 hours). I think the “direction” is really up to C, and people can talk about whatever they want on the weekends.
Liz
I think people like to ask non-work related questions because they trust the judgment of other professional women, even if it’s not about a work-related subject. That doesn’t bother me.
Anon
I agree w/ Liz. You can find out what your everyday woman thinks about things on any other site, but it is interesting to see the professional woman’s view on some not-so-professional comments here. Esp if they keep it confined to the “weekend open thread” discussions. I’d be a little more worried about the site’s direction if C did a post or poll on lingerie or something, but a comment on the weekend thread doesn’t bother me.
Cat
hear, hear
AH
The thought of a lingerie poll made me laugh. And, this IS a great site to see the professional woman’s view on everyday topics — but isn’t there a point when the comments, where you stand the most to gain from the website, ruin the content (ie abovethelaw)? We’re not close to that, but I hate those slippery slopes.
Emily
As the original “lingerie” poster, I was somewhat stung by your post. I’ms a 30-something lawyer and mother of three, and I’m certainly not a Cosmo or Above the Law reader. In fact, upon reflection, the thought of someone mistaking me for someone “like that” makes ME laugh – I’m conservative with a capital “C.” (Not politically speaking, but that’s another can of worms…)
I don’t know why I feel compelled to defend myself to a stranger, but here it is: In the year that I’ve been reading (faithfully) corporette, I’ve come to appreciate and value the advice of the ladies who regularly post here. This is a weekend open thread, which in the past has been host to a wide variety of topics. I am really (really!) excited about the first real vacation I’ve had without kids in over six years and just wanted some advice about lingerie brands, stores – you see, I’m a little out of the loop. (And it’s not like I asked for positions to try in the bedroom!) I’m certainly sorry if I’ve offended you or others, but I don’t really see the harm.
Now I’m off to snuggle with my hubby…if my six-year-old ever falls asleep.
AH
Ahhhh, please don’t be sorry for your post. Even if it were offensive, which of course it was not, there truly is no harm either way. This is a website. You are more than entitled to post whatever you would like. For my own pleasure-reading reasons, I posted that simply because I didn’t care to read it, or others similar to it, and I wondered how others felt about it in this particular forum. Based on the responses, I am in the lonely-world minority, which I can certainly live with.
Enjoy! And Happy Anniversary!
Jenny
I am the only woman at my firm, the women on this site often function my surrogate mentors! I really value the wide rage of opinions here. There isn’t really any danger of the content being ruined- if someone suggests an inappropriate topic it is usually ignored.
cj
I would just add that for us almost-professionals (I’m a 3L, for example), this site is really the best thing since sliced bread because we can hear from such a great range of professional women. Many of us students will be working for many of you more established ladies in the near future – it is so, so valuable to hear what you have to say about pretty much every topic that comes up!
Sarah
^^ Seconded. Even the non-work-clothes advice is duly noted every time. And I appreciate how, especially on the weekend threads, there are topics OTHER than what to wear to work in a given scenario. I have yet to come across a bad piece of advice, for anything at all under the sun, on this site. And I doubt I will.
stargirl
I completely agree. I am a 2L and appreciate all the advice Corporette women have provided, especially regarding interviews and talking to established attorneys. I felt that I was more secure in what I wore to my interviews this year because of advice about pantyhose , suits, skirt lengths, professional makeup, etc. It is also interesting to see how you all think, considering that I do aspire to work for women like you in the near future (cross my fingers).
I did not mind the original “lingerie” comment at all. IMO, the advice provided in Cosmo is far less helpful than anything I’ve gotten here, lingerie related or otherwise :)
Lawgirl
Random: I don’t spend too much on lingerie…. Husband likes it for like 2 seconds and then it’s gone like (snap). LOL. In fact, he buys it or me, I don’t.. Ha!
Violet
I am a 44-year-old government attorney who works in a casual office and I occassionally go to court. I get tired of all the 3L’s worrying about their interviews at Big Law, but this site is for any woman trying to look professional in her career. I wore a second-hand black suit for my first interview and got the job. I LOVE this site because I am at a loss as to what I should wear in order to look chic and sharp, especially given my age and some weight gain. One of the biggest shocks I had was when pantyhose went out the window! Keep it up, C!
SUCL 3L
Sorry that you’re sick of hearing from us students, but some of us (myself included) haven’t had a lot of guidance as to what’s professional/acceptable in the business world. I want to look and be professional in my career (which, hopefully, will also be in government) and am glad I have some where that I can ask for a little advice.
M in CA
Well said, Liz!
S
Does anyone else have trouble with sweaty feet? It’s embarassing, but mine are really bad. It ruins shoes, and the smell makes it hard to change shoes if I need to put on a suit in the middle of the day.
I have a clinical strength anti-perspirant that works great for underarms, but it doesn’t seem to do anything for my feet. They’re better with socks or tights, but still worse than I’d like them to be. Any other thoughts?
Jen
I definitely do. I also haven’t really found anything that works great, but there is this stuff made by Sally Hansen (I found it at Ulta) called All Day Foot Spray. It doesn’t solve the problem, but it lessens it. Over the summer I also got in the habit of spraying odor eaters on my feet in the morning when I left for work and then spraying it in my shoes when I got home. I also wore flip flops to the office in the morning and in the car on the way home so that the shoes were on my feet as little as possible.
I would also love any other suggestions!!
Erin M.
I have the same problem. Putting powders or anti-perspirant on your feet won’t help it. You need to adjust your footwear to wear more breathable shoes and socks.
First, you probably shouldn’t wear shoes without socks or hose. Your feet can’t “breathe” and the sweatiness gets worse. Plus, I end up with awful blisters if I wear shoes without socks, because the sweatiness and clamminess makes the shoes rub. Even if I am wearing socks or hose, I try to find shoes that have a cotton or leather inner lining, too, and that seems to help. If you’re not going to wear socks, definitely wear shoes with a cotton or leather inner lining.
I sweat much less wearing socks or tights that have a cotton blend. Hue makes pantyhose with a cotton blend – I know the Polished Sheer Control Top pantyhose has 3% cotton and they may make other styles as well. Hue tights also are cotton blend. My feet do fine in both of these products.
Erin M.
Oh, also, the reason your shoes and feet smell isn’t the sweat per se, but bacteria caused by the sweat. If you make sure your shoes dry out completely after each wearing (even slip them off under your desk if possible) and spray them with something that will kill bacteria like Lysol (they make purse sizes), that will help.
MelD
I bought Summer Soles after someone on here recommended them and love them. They have two types- a wool type that is very thick and will absorb a lot of sweat, and a microsuede type that isn’t quite as absorbent.
L.
I’ve had pretty good results with The Greench (a foot powder) from Lush, letting my shoes dry out for at least a day between wearings, and a thin insole. The insoles do get icky after awhile, but if you buy cheap ones in bulk you can toss them and replace with fresh ones.
lawdiva
S,
I have very sweaty feet as well as sweaty palms. The condition is called hyperhydrosis and affects about 1% of the population. Go to a dermatologist who can give you a prescription for it. I forget the name, but it’s a prescription strength liquid that you put on your feet every night before you go to bed, and then you put socks over your feet to keep the liquid contained. It leaves your feet feeling very chalky but my dermatologist swears that it works extremely well. You use it on a daily basis and after some time you get ot the point where you use it once a week or even less. Unfortunately for me, I spilled all of the liquid after about a week of using it and was too lazy to renew my prescription, but I plan on doing that soon.
Your other option is to use botox. I am scared of this option, but my dermatologist said that people who have significant sweating problems can be helped significantly by botox.
Good luck, you’re not alone!
Ms. Basil E. Frankweiler
I think the liquid you may be referring to is called Drysol (generic name: Hypercare). I use it for my underarms and it is MAGIC!
Liz
I don’t think I would ever wear these boots to work, even if they are pretty cute. They just don’t seem very professional. Even for a casual day.
Lynette
Usually when C suggests an item of clothing on the weekend/open thread, I assume she means for out of the office wear–note her additional suggestions of leggings and skinny jeans, which most of her followers probably don’t wear into the office.
Anonymous
For the weekend open thread, C started posting weekend wear – so, the boots are meant for wearing outside the office :)
divaliscious11
I’d wear them with a grey, hitting just below the knee, simple dress! But I think I tend to push the envelope more than many. Also, I have discovered that in Chicago, boots are not the work faux pas they seem to be in other parts of the country, but as we wear them from October to April…..
I think the trick to wearing an edgier piece is to tone down other aspects of the outfit, so I’d wear this with something like this….
http://www1.talbots.com/online/browse/product_details.jsp?id=prdi23196&rootCategory=cat70012&catId=cat120063&sortKey=Default§ion=Regular&conceptIdUnderSale=cat70012
minus the belt, with grey tights…not quite monochromatic but all in the same family
Forty-something mom and attorney
Corporette and others, Do people wear leggings or skinny jeans on the weekend? If so, what is the age group that is wearing this style. I think of this as an extremely young style, and that women over a certain age look silly with extremely tight, skinny pants, even on the weekend. Can anyone suggest actual clothes in this style that work? Does anyone have leggings that they actually like and wear? Thanks.
Jill
I usually wear boot cut jeans, but recently purchased two pairs of skinny jeans. I wanted some jeans that would tuck smoothly into knee-high boots. I’ve found that they are actually very flattering and I’ve also worn them with flats and heeled short booties. But I always wear something long on top to cover the tush, like a long cardigan or sweater coat. Otherwise I’d feel very self-conscious. Haven’t gone the leggings route. I’ve tried on some nice black leggings at the store, but can’t get over the feeling that they are not “real” clothing. I think they could work, though, with tall boots or, in warmer months, with a long tunic and sandals. As to age appropriateness–I don’t know, but I think it depends on how you style your skinnies. I’m in my early 40s, and I think they look very classic and appropriate when paired with nice, covered up pieces. But I could see how skinny jeans might look silly on someone my age if they were worn with stiletto heels or something than shows a lot of skin.
Lynette
The only rule of thumb that comes straight to mind is “leggings are not pants”. I’d take a look at the youlookfab blog, as she has featured quite a few looks around leggings and skinny jeans that might be more appropriate for a more “mature” woman, and some of the outfits are quite cute.
I don’t wear leggings and skinny jeans because I’m well….not skinny.
divaliscious11
If you have the figure for it – why not? I am a mom, over 40, lawyer and I wear them both. I don’t wear them as a teen or even a young woman would, but I don’t wear much else like a teen/twenty-something, either. I have seen very stylish older women who look fabulous, but the aren’t wearing them with cropped shirts etc….
Erin M.
I don’t, but I have an apple shaped body and skinny jeans would just emphasize how narrow my hips are in relation to my tummy. In general, I think skinny pants emphasize the shape of apple and pear-shaped women in a way that is not flattering (although if a woman wants to show off her hips or tummy, more power to her). I don’t think there’s anything wrong with a middle-aged woman wearing skinny jeans if she has a lanky or hourglass body.
I think leggings look fine on everyone so long as they are not worn as pants but with a tunic or under a dress. They’re not my favorite style and I don’t wear them myself, but assuming you do like the style, they’re not going to be unflattering. I would caution short women against wearing leggings that stop mid-calf because it makes you look stumpy.
michelle
I am a size 10 or so and certainly, shall we say, “mature”, and I used to be a boot-cut girl but I found this year that “skinny” jeans are actually very flattering. I have worn them with flats and tucked into boots ( I think you do need to be twenty-something to pull them off with heels ) and a sweater or jacket over a tee. I like Calvin Klein Jeans skinnies(www.calvinkleinjeans.com); for me they have the right amount of stretch (enough to be comfortable and not so much they feel like Lycra). I stay away from cropped skinnies, personally, as well as anything ripped or too tight. As for leggings, they look so great on my 19 year old daughter, I don’t even try.
MelD
There was a recent Oprah that had a segment about styling skinny jeans/leggings for any age. I have one pair of slim jeans now (and a few that no longer fit)- it really isn’t as unflattering a style as I thought it would be. If you want skinnier jeans, go for the ones that have some stretch.
anon - chi
I don’t personally wear either, but my friends who do (all in their mid or late 20s) wear leggings under short dresses/tunics with boots over them – sort of the same way you might wear tights. There is also one (extremely thin) attorney in my office who wears them to work, and I would guess she is in her mid-40s. She also wears them with dresses, but with tall heels instead of boots. I wouldn’t personally recommend taking leggings to work unless you are extremely well established, and I wouldn’t recommend leggings at that age unless you are in very good shape – otherwise it looks too much like you are trying to recapture your youth.
As for skinny jeans – I don’t think there is an age limit, but I think you have to be almost underweight to make them look good. (Just my two cents.) None of my friends wear them.
Lawgirl
Check out this pic of cute skinny jeans .. .scroll down to “a plus sized perspective.” http://youlookfab.com/page/7/
mille
My 50-ish, size 8 boss wears skinny jeans, tall boots, tank tops and long cardigans and looks great. My 32 year old size 20 body wears skinny jeans with boots and tunics and I feel fine in them. Find something that flatters you and is comfortable, and with leggings and skinny jeans, always wear a top that covers your butt.
lawdiva
I’m 30. I don’t wear skinny jeans, not because I think they are young, but because I’m pear shaped and the last thing I want to do is draw attention to my hips/thighs. I think women of all ages look terrific in them, so don’t feel afraid to try them out if you think they work well with your body shape.
As I grow older, I find myself becoming a lot more experimental with my clothes. I used to never wear sleeveless tops, worried that my arms weren’t defined enough. Now I think — if I don’t wear them now, will I really feel all that more comfortable wearing them in 5 years??
Jill
Here’s my question for the weekend: What exactly makes a work outfit frumpy or dowdy?
Here’s why I ask: I’m a 41-year old attorney with a private firm. My work wardrobe has evolved from that of a lawyer right out of school, wearing a skirt suit and hose every day, to that of a more seasoned professional in an increasingly casual workplace. Over the past several years, my clothing spend has gone more toward the casual/funky/weekend and less toward classic suiting.
I’ve recently moved to a larger law firm, where the dress code is a bit more formal. And of course I still have client meetings and court appearances where I need to wear full professional garb.
As a result, I have taken a cold hard look at my professional wardrobe. With the help of a digital camera, I’ve come to realize that some of my old standards now seem downright frumpy. Those pieces will not be going back into my closet.
The irony is that I’m earning more income than ever, but am having a difficult time finding professional pieces that I love. It’s like I’m having trouble figuring out how to dress my middle-aged professional self.
So I ask: What mistakes do professional women commonly make that might be upping our frump factor?
A few of the answers I know: Failing to tailor clothes to fit our bodies, wearing our skirts too long and our pants too short, choosing “tan” hosiery. I also might need to break my addiction to shopping at discount places like Marshalls or TJ Maxx. At this point in my career, it’s probably time to be prepared to shell out the bucks for higher-end pieces.
Any other suggestions? Again, thank you! Jill
Anonymous
Good start on the list (and good idea to take photos!). I’d add – insisting on keeping long hair (even when it’s not the most flattering cut), overly sensible shoes (that _look_ overly sensible), tops with a wider, scoop-y neck (as opposed to jewel / tank / boat / v / turtle — not sure why this strikes me as frumpy, but I’m thinking it’s because it’s not either as tailored, or as intentionally drape-y, as other cuts), a tendency to tuck everything in, and the need to get re-fitted for some good bras.
Trying to picture where the What Not to Wear team would send you — thinking Talbot’s (good pants, if you avoid the highest rise), J.Crew (twinsets, tees and wool sweaters, if you don’t itch to death in them), Brooks Brothers (for a good suit or two, and their non-iron slim fit shirts), and Bloomingdale’s (great work dress selection). Cole Haan for shoes (or if you’re in the mood to splurge a little more, Ferragamo).
michelle
Ooh, great question. I had a similar experience, and have reluctantly accepted that just because a suit was expensive/still fits me/was only worn a few times, doesn’t mean it’s OK to wear. what I recommend is to go to a high end store like Bloomingdales or Saks, and make an appointment with the personal shopper. They can go through the store much more efficiently than you can, and when they know a bit about you/your body type/your tastes, can really do a great job of editing down an assortment for you to look at. They will bring in things you would never have picked out, and some of those will be great on you and unexpected. It will give you a comfort level with more modern silhouettes and make it easier for you to pick out more trendy flattering looks on your own. And once you’ve formed a relationship, they’ll alert you to sales, or when something new comes in they think will appeal to you. (I still have that Marshalls addiction, btw, just tend to go there more for basics/weekend than for serious work stuff). Good luck!
Erin M.
Ill-fitting clothes, lack of accessories, dated hairstyles, clothing that was trendy when you first bought it, not wearing any color, wearing too much color, wearing skirt lengths or shoes that make your legs look stumpy.
I shop exclusively at discount stores and sales and no one would ever call me frumpy. It’s not where you shop, it’s what you buy and how you put pieces together. Perhaps you fall into the trap of buying things because they are cheap, not because you love them. A bargain isn’t a bargain if it’s ill-fitting. I also never buy any professional attire that could be considered trendy, because it will look dated in a few years (or less). See, e.g., the shoulder-pad suits in my mom’s closet. And I also take photos of every outfit, before I take the tags off usually but also when I put a new outfit together with existing pieces in my closet.
Instead of starting to shop at expensive stores, I think your money would be better spent consulting a stylist, then continuing to shop at discount stores. You might also check out some of the many outfit blogs out there (I’m sure Corporette readers can recommend some). But what specifically bothers you about your old standards? Why do you think they’re frumpy?
MelD
There’s nothing wrong with choosing to shop at discount stores or the sale racks. I get the vast majority of my clothes on sale unless there’s a basic I want that I know probably won’t ever go on sale.
Mistakes I see regularly are tucking shirts into high-rise pants, pants that are too short and too tapered, picking baggier clothes to hide perceived figure flaws, shoes that look too orthopedic (there are plenty of cute flats out there with lots of support), VPL, and wearing bras that don’t fit right.
If you don’t want to shell out a lot of money, you can use a personal shopper at a mid-range store like Nordstrom. I know I see a lot of the brands there show up at TJ Maxx/Marshalls, so it will also give you an idea of what to buy at the discount stores.
Nancy P
Agree w/the recommendation to try a personal shopper. I work with a woman who recently lost 25 pounds or so, and had to get a whole new wardrobe as a result. She’s a high-level staffer in Biglaw, so needs to dress appropriately. She saw a personal shopper and I LOVE what she came back with — interesting but very chic blouses, jackets etc. Even if you’re in a higher-end store, the personal shopper will bring you things in a range of prices. It’s like getting a WNTW makeover without the public humiliation.
Jill
Thanks for the good advice! Never asked about personal shopping services; will give that a try.
I think many of my issues resulted from failing to stay on top of my professional wardrobe over the years. When our office went “business casual,” I pretty much stopped buying suits and formal business wear, and instead spent my money on smart casual pieces. I have a primarily federal court practice, and it’s rare that I actually have to appear in court. Many of our clients have even asked that we conform to their business casual dress code when we visit, to avoid drawing attention to the fact that the outside lawyers were in the house.
So over the years I’ve been mindlessly putting on the suit “uniforms” when necessary. Only recently have I realized that many of those suits had seen their better days. Even the ones that are not showing wear are clearly behind the style curve–e.g., longer boxy jackets, more “man suit” looking. The good news–the more current, fitted suits look fabulous and don’t feel so much like a work uniform!’
Again, thanks for the good advice.
Anonymous
Since you’ve seem to have identified the “problems” with your work wardrobe, you might not even need to use a personal shopper. I think a good strategy might be to buy some good classic, but more modern suits from Nordstrom/Banana/etc. and then shop around at the discount places for more “trend aware” jackets and tops.
E
I really love Nordstroms Classique Entier line for work. It is in no way in the TJ Maxx/Marshall’s budget, but I find the stuff to be very work appopriate and trend-aware if not trendy. I second the idea of a personal shopper or stylist. Invest in that, and once you feel like you understand the “rules” you want to follow, head back to the discount stores with a more experienced eye.
MelD
I’ve been able to find matching suits during the sales, so you can still get them for a fairly decent price. Nordstrom will also order items for other stores, so if there’s something you like that may not be quite in your size, they can have it sent to you.
Erin M.
TJ Maxx or similar stores may have designer or good label suits. I get Tahari suits at Filene’s.
Lobbyist
So with you! I hired a wardrobe consultant. She went through my clothes, we threw out a lot and then went shopping for more. She is trying to teach me how to put items together. For example, I never wore jewelry of any kind or any other accesories before and now I do. I highly recommend it. I know that I am not good at putting outfits together, but I must say I look a lot better than I used to.
Sarah
I just turned 26 today (wahoo!!) and will wear leggings on the weekends, but only to go out and see someone that has already seen me in pajamas. And by “go out” I mean walk the 10 yards from my car to their door.
Skinny Jeans = not a chance. Especially not with the stack of chocolate chip pancakes I just made myself… :-)
Lawgirl
I took the skinny jeans plunge a few months ago, after soliciting advice from dear friends. They all said: Go for it! BTW, I’m a Corporette Everywoman — late 30s, had 2 babies, decently shape but don’t workout fanatically, size 4/6 but hips and thighs that are always hiding 10 lbs more than they should. I wear my black skinny jeans with tall boots and they are cute, stylish, and fun for the weekend. I don’t know why I took so long.
When I was in Chuck E Cheese with my kids a few months ago, almost all the moms had on skinny jeans and boots. The women were all shapes and sizes (ultra petite, regular, plus sized) and the boots ranged from tall/short/slouchy/Uggs, flat/suede to tall/pointy. And they uniformly looked comfy and unself-conscious and CUTE! I think us “Corporettes” need to get out more. Hahaha!
Lynette
Wow. Were the skinnies actually flattering on the plus size wearers that you saw? I guess it’s just been pounded into my head for so long that boot cuts were the most flattering on full figured women that I’ve been sticking to that; and my friends had to clown me into to getting the boot cuts after years of my refusing to even consider jeans.
Hmm, maybe I’ll try them or least strike a happy medium with a straight leg pair.
v
I think they look great on a lot of plus-size women . You can probably find some examples by poking through the photos at the Fatshionista LiveJournal community
Erin M.
I see a lot of plus size women who look great in skinny jeans. Whether or not they’re flattering seems to depend more on the wearer’s shape, not her size. Plus, most larger women look better in more form-fitting clothes, despite the tendency to wear baggy ones. Bagginess just adds bulk without really concealing anything.
Lawgirl
Hi @Lynette – Yes, the plus-sized ladies wore straight leg (rather than “skinny”) jeans tucked into suede boots with nice, flowy tunics on top, which balanced the look. There are great suggestions on you look fab. I like this site alot… Angie is a true stylist, meaning she can translate trends and styles for regular folk like us! http://youlookfab.com/2006/10/26/skinnies-for-curvies/
Lynette
Thanks, ladies.
@ Lawgirl, I occasionally dip over to youlookfab, don’t know how I missed that post on straights for curvies. I went on a mission last night and managed to find this young lady http://frocksandfroufrou.blogspot.com/. I don’t like how she’s styled her leggings but the narrow leg jeans just might work.
MelD
She looks great. I know a few years ago I thought there was no way you could wear them unless you were 100lbs or less. After I tried them myself, I just realized it was more a matter of styling them right.
My main issue with slim jeans is that I’ve yet to find any with a high enough rise. I wear a normal size, but even jeans labeled as having a “mid-rise” fall about 6″ below my waist and create a muffin top. Anyone know of reasonably priced slimmer jeans that have a slightly higher rise?
Lawgirl
Check out this pic of cute skinny jeans .. .scroll down to “a plus sized perspective.” http://youlookfab.com/page/7/
Gemmy
@ MelD
Even though I’m young I like my jeans a little higher too…muffin top, not so nice. I find H&M has nice, cheap, skinny jeans with a higher rise than anything else you see in a similar (50$ish) price range in that style…mine hit high enough to deal with muffin top, but not high enough that you can tell they’re not low rise…
MelD
@Gemmy- Thanks for the tip, but I don’t live near an H&M at the moment. I feel like I’ve tried on many pairs in the past and never found one that was a good fit.
KLo
@MelD – if Lands End still has their Audrey cut slim jean, that’s what I wear. And honestly, the rise is *almost* too high for me. But because they fit so well, feel great, and I’m at least a size down in them, I stuck with ’em! Do note that they stretch a decent amount after you first get them on, so if they’re snug, wear them around for 20 minutes before going out & you’ll feel great – I even get complements in them!
MelD
@KLo-Thanks for the tip. Unfortunately it looks like all the slim jeans in size 2-18 now come in Fit 1 (the lower rise, modern fit). I had no trouble finding jeans about a year ago, but now it seems like everywhere is going with this modern fit that is just way too low on me.
mille
Try the jean leggings from Lee jeans. Fabulous fit, so comfortable and look great with a longer top.
L
Agreed! I recently gained about 15 lbs and was wearing these baggy bootcut jeans that looked terrible on me, until I tried on my sister’s skinny jeans and realized that they were much more flattering. I went out and bought myself a pair and I look sooooo much better now. If you’re a larger size, I think the key is to get a mid-rise and thicker fabric — the thin denim jeans end up hugging my legs too much.
Ms. Basil E. Frankweiler
So, I made it through my first semester (woo-hoo!) and now have property (arugh!). My professor has only been teaching for about a year and this is his first time teaching property at my school. I am wondering if any of you seasoned attorney/students can recommend good property supplements? I went to the professor and he suggested supplements that are bigger than my text! Help! Please!
Anonymous
hate to break it to you, but property is just going to be awful no matter the professor, the text, or whatever supplement you get.
cj
word. haha. it’s a rite of passage we all must go through.
Erin M.
I loved property! I actually got the highest grade in my class (and I was not normally a law school superstar), so I may have been more naturally inclined toward it than most people. But I used this book and liked it, still have it in fact:
http://www.amazon.com/Property-Examples-Explanations-Barlow-Burke/dp/0735570310/ref=pd_sim_b_4
s-k-s
Ditto! The E&E series were my favorites in law school.
Anonymous
I concur. IMO Property is the most God awful subject during 1L year. Personally, I find that when a prof recommends a supplement, it’s usually a good bet. But, other than that, my favorite line of supplements is Examples & Explanations because it provides, well, examples and explanations. Very useful for looking at topics in terms of possible questions/hypos that could be asked on an example.
3L
Gilbert’s is good for Property. Flash cards got me through future interests.
k
Examples and Explanations! I’d forgotten about that, but yes, that line did get me through law school. I highly recommend it, if you are like me and need to write “practice exams” to prepare.
divaliscious11
Property Law just sucks it!!!! I went to a school where the property law teacher had been teaching for centuries!!!! And supplements were a bad idea because em liked it the em taught it! My suggestion would be to get the supplement and then outline it so it makes sense to you. Getting other peoples outline works for some, but, at least for me, the process of outlining it was made the concepts sink home in a way that I could cross apply the rules to multiple fact patterns. Especially for stuff like property which hasn’t significantly changed in 100 years…
divaliscious11
Funny property law story, when I took the NY bar, the very last question was a Rule against Perpetuites question. I knew that was the issue and I new the rule, but explain it? Not a chance…fortunately, I didn’t need more points from that question, but from the chatter after the exam…the outrage was on the fact that it was ON the exam, after being told in bar prep – focus on corporate, no rule against…blah blah…we had NO corporate question (first time in like 15 yrs) and the RAP!
Amber
The only supplement I used for Property was Law-in-a-Flash. The cards have their limitations, but I liked them for getting some of the basics from property.
Congrats on finishing the first semester!!
A
If you’re doing estates and future interests, “Estates in Land and Future Interests: A Step By Step Guide” by Linda Edwards saved my life for Property I last semester. Short, simple, and lots of practice problems.
Lucy
I am not a fan of a lot of supplement books b/c they tend to oversimplify a lot of concepts and property is the kind of class you have to understand to do well, you can’t just memorize things.
I cannot overstate how much I recommend the Singer book on Property. It’s a treatise, not so much a cram book, but it’s amazing. I thought I would fail property, got the book as a last resort, read all the applicable sections a few times, and ended up getting an A & working as a teaching assistant for the property prof. This book is wholly responsible — I thought property would be my first F ever, and the reason I got kicked out of law school! Get Singer. It’s worth the 50 bucks (or get it from the library, most schools will def have it on reserve).
lawdiva
Highly highly recommend Gilberts. Examples & Explanations is good but it’s not an outline, which is what you need for Property. If you’re looking for hypos, then E&E is the better bet but if you’re looking for a simple explanation of key principles, go for Gilberts. Or get both, which is what I did. You’ll need all the help you can get in Property (which I loved by the way, but most people don’t). Good luck!!
ae
Emanuel’s outlines! Used them for all of my tough subjects.
ae
Also with Emanuel’s, they usually have different editions that are keyed to different casebooks so it follows it smoothly and covers the same cases.
Rachel
I would get the book that your prof recommends. I teach at the local law school as an adjunct, and I use the supplement that I recommend (when asked) to my students. I have even been known to pull exam questions from it. Get the recommended supplement.
BitterJD
Hi, Everyone.
I have an interview for an in-house position next week for a company listed by Forbes as being one of the best to work. I was happy that a VP of the legal department (and not simply someone from HR) personally contacted me via email to schedule an interview. When she did, she gave me her HOME phone number and asked me if 8pm was a convenient time. In response, I agreed to the time and told her I would call her at that time. Why else would she give me her home number?
Has anyone been the interviewee and called the interviewer at the interviewer’s home? I find it a bit strange that I am initiating the call and that I’m calling at the person’s home AND that it’s a VP in the legal department. Any experiences to share? I suppose it will be very similar to any telephone interview.
Erin M.
It strikes me as unusual to do an interview from home, but if the only free time she has for an interview is that late in the evening, chances are she has a ridiculously busy schedule and would rather be at home at 8pm even though she still has work to do. As for your calling her instead of her calling you, personally I wouldn’t have given my home phone number to a candidate, but I don’t find it unusual for the interviewee to initiate the call.
VP could mean a lot of things. There might be 12 VPs in the legal department, or there might be one. Try to research it so you know exactly who you’re talking to.
divaliscious11
A little, but at that level, it may have been when she had time to speak with you herself, and not push you off on an admin/HR or other department attys (see my post above – LOL).
She might also like you and want to give you some advice in a non-formal setting.
BitterJD
Thanks, divaliscious11! You’ve given me great insight. At the very least, I’ll see this as an informative interview and will hopefully gain career advice.
E
One idea — I have a very busy career and a 14 month old. I often will split out of work by six, go home, eat dinner with my husband and son, put the little guy to bed and then “go back to work” for a couple of hours. I have an amazingly supportive (though male dominated) office, and everyone knows this is what I do, and as long as I get things done and my work product is good, no complaints. She may be trying to meet a lot of people’s needs, and doing a late evening interview may afford her a precious 45 minutes with someone she loves. No idea if this is the case, but it’s what I thought of when I heard the scenario.
BitterJD
Thank you, E. I think you’re right. When I read up on the attorney’s mini biography on Forbes, she is in her 60s, so she may be in a similar situation in that she may be very busy at the office and still do work at home, or she may be more comfortable interviewing from home when she’s more relaxed. Thank you for the great insights!
Sharon
I’m not in law, but IME it’s not unusual at all for phone interviews to be done in the evening, from home. When else can people be free to talk? I also like having the person call me, because I hate when I call and I feel obligated to say, “Is this a good time, do you need another minute or two.” In the business world, I don’t think this even raises an eyebrow.
Y
I had this kind of an interview for my current in-house position so this is based on that knowledge.
First of all, I’m guessing that this is a very early round interview as well – just to make sure that you are serious about the job, a good fit, etc. On the interviewer’s end, it is a good way to weed out the crazies without having the hassle of people coming in to the office. It may be a very short call – mine took maybe 5 minutes until I was told that I would definitely be getting an invite for the next round of interviews. Nonetheless, be super prepared. Know the business (the field as well as the specific company) inside and out, be enthusiastic, personable, etc. Good luck!
And hey, you don’t need to worry about what to wear for this one! ;)
BitterJD
Thank you for sharing your experience, Y. Much appreciated! I hadn’t expected that it might be a short phone call to gauge my interest, but I think that sounds reasonable-especially since the call is well into the evening. And yes, any break from wearing pantyhose on an interview is always welcome. Thank you, again.
L.
Has anyone tried the jersey dresses from Victoria’s Secret? Or, for that matter, the new ruched convertible dress? Is the texture of the jersey sturdy/thick enough for work?
ARinFL
I have a couple of the older jersey dresses… I don’t have the convertible thought. I purchased all of them during one of their major sales and I don’t think I spent more than $20 on any of them. While I love the dresses for the weekends, I would never wear them to work (and I live in Florida where a cotton jersey dress with a 3/4 sleeve jacket is relatively common). The material is thick enough, but they just have that ‘weekend casual’ look to them, IMO. Also, I wouldn’t pay full price… Mine worked fabulously for about 2 years and now have the little pills all over the underarms. Not so noticeable that I don’t wear them, though. F0r $20, I still love them.
B
I’m looking for opinions on this dress:
http://www3.jcpenney.com/jcp/X6.aspx?DeptID=50434&CatID=64326&GrpTyp=PRD&ItemID=170feb5&attrtype=&attrvalue=&CMID=50434|50444|63883&Fltr=&Srt=&QL=F&IND=23&cmVirtualCat=&CmCatId=50434|50444|63883|64326
I tried it on a few months ago and couldn’t decide whether it looked frumpy or not. It fit very well and was reasonably flattering.
I’m 49yo so try to walk a careful line between too-young and too-matronly.
Thoughts?
Jill
I like it!
cj
Me too!
newassociate
it has frump potential, depending on what else you’re wearing. i love having dresses in my closet because they are so grab-and-go, but with this one, you’d have to be careful in how you wear it. since it’s a great price and it fit very well, i’d order it and try it on at home with a variety of shoes and accessories, maybe taking digital pictures, to decide. i think some wicked shoes (high patent heels, for example) would reduce risk of frump. this dress is not going to work with low shoes.
Cat
I like it — but to second newassociate, be careful with the styling. I think the sleeve style (too long to be called cap) is the risky part, frump-wise. I’d probably wear it with a contrasting color cardigan, and then either simple black ballet flats or high heels.
s-p-s
So glad you posted – I also just bought that dress! I’m 27, and planning on wearing it with a black blazer, which I think will look more professional and polished (and keep me warm!)
lawdiva
I was actually looking at this dress as well! I agree with others that it could look frumpy but it depends on how you accessorize it. You also need to make sure that it fits you relatively snugly — if the dress is baggy at all, it will definitely look frumpy. Also, make sure that the dress hits at the knee or slightly above.
C
Thanks so much, all! I think I will give it a try. I may come back asking for shoe and cardigan feedback. :-)
Thanks again!
Colette
I’m a 1L interviewing for summer jobs right now and I’ve really appreciated all of the interviewing advice on corporette! (esp re suiting and panty hose)
But one area that I’m still unsure of is nail polish. I’m a nail polish person, my nails are *always* painted and I like trying new/different colors (was early on the dark trend a few years ago, loved Chanel jade this fall) but I know that my nails need to be conservative and non-distracting for interviews, but I’m tired of re-painting my nails for interviews every few days and SO tired of looking at boring nude disappearing nails.
So I’m wondering if a dark red polish would be appropriate for a call back interview, not at a law firm, but for an in-house internship in NYC? I think it looks classic, sophisticated, a color my mom would wear, but any advice on legal interviewing nail polish would be appreciated!
(p.s. what’s the deal with off-black hose? are these better/worse than sheer black hose to wear with a black suit?)
Cat
I’d stick with the “boring” polish. Your hands can get a lot of attention during an interview (initial handshake, offering resumes, holding a glass of water, eating out), and darker polishes could send a high-maintenance message (you prioritize keeping a shows-every-chip color looking perfect).
At my firm (Phila. biglaw) hardly any of the women on my floor wear polish on any sort of regular basis, I’m sure partly because of lack of time to get manis. Even if darker colors were more common, though, I can’t imagine anyone judging you for having pale pink nails as opposed to something trendier!
Not sure what you mean by off-black hose – gray? Eh – I suggest either sheer black or nude for an interview.
Tidy
I love that you keep your nails done all the time– I wish I had that discipline! However, for a call-back, even in the setting you’re describing, the dark red could be a little vampy. I’d go with a nude or paler color, something that doesn’t necessarily draw attention to your hands, but will look manicured and clean (translates to being detail-oriented, etc.). Good luck on the interview! When it goes well, you can treat yourself to a fab dark red manicure :)
ClerkChic
I agree regarding “boring” nails – they’re the only appropriate polish option for an interview. The last thing you’d want is to have someone thinking about your polish when you’re trying to draw attention to your accomplishments!
Re: Off Black Nylons: They’re wonderful because you don’t have to worry about whether your blacks “match.” I’ve got a suit that’s a blue-er black and a suit that’s red-er. I had to wear different hose with each because of the undertone, but with off-black (“barely black” in the brand I like) there’s a bit more contrast, and a hint more skin tone comes through to make the whole look a little more polished.
Erin M.
Maybe a pale pink or mauve would suit you better than a nude? I would avoid anything dark or bright. I never see my attorney colleagues wearing dark or bright polish, and I think it would catch my attention if an interviewee did. I don’t think it would look bad, but it would catch my attention and possibly surprise/distract me.
lawdiva
Do not wear dark red. Everyone will notice and it will make you seem high maintenance. I suggest wearing clear polish, or a very pale pink/taupe. I have never seen female attorneys in my office wearing any sort of polish, to be honest. I wear clear myself when I find time to get my nails done!
Colette
Thanks for all the advice! I’ve already removed the red and replaced with nude (Essie “Sandy Beach” in case anyone cares).
I’m really not that high maintenance, I can’t remember the last time I had a manicure, I just really enjoy painting my nails, it’s somehow relaxing…. and I always figured interesting nail polish was the easiest and most non-committal way to be “fashion forward”. But I guess I’ll have to make the most of nail polish freedom for the duration of law school since it apparently will be ending immediately upon finding a “real” job. sigh.
SUCL 3L
I’m with you that painting my nails can be rather relaxing. Suggestion – get your nail color fix on your toes! I don’t often paint my fingernails (too much maintenance) but always have my toes polished and tend to go for the more daring colors there.
Rachael
Love dark red nail polish. It’s my go-to shade, and I honestly can’t find a neutral I like. I’m a senior associate (oh, the important “senior” to make me feel better about my peon status) at a Biglaw firm in the Midwest. That said, definitely neutral for an interview. You wouldn’t put me off (I’d kind of think you were cool honestly and it would be a common point), but you would put off a lot of potential interviewers. Sounds like you’ve got it figured out!
Erin M.
Once you get your job, wear whatever color of nail polish you want. In an interview, you only have 20 minutes to make an impression and you don’t want your nails to distract people. In your job, your colleagues will get to know you and your work product, and your colorful nails will just be a quirk.
Chicago K
How about a french manicure? I know that the dark metal grays are really trendy right now, and have no idea where a french manicure falls as far as trendy or stylish. But personally I always think that they look clean, classy and professional .
Nails actually can be REALLY distracting. Especially long ones. I attend business school and recently one woman gave a presentation. Noone could remember her name and she has since been knows as “the girl with the really long nails.” They were perfectly manicured but LONG and it was all people could look at.
I think nails make a big statement actually. Certain styles can look very trashy (long, bright, nail art/gemstones), and chipped polish will make you look unfinished. Dark colors can be distracting too (I couldn’t stop looking at a coworkers chocolate brown nails while we chit chatted the other day). Glitter/off colors look too young/unprofessional.
Best to stick with boring…
Erin M.
There was a question about nails on a weekend thread a couple weeks ago and many posters commented very strongly that they thought French nails looked trashy. I absolutely wouldn’t go with a French manicure.
Chicago K
Wow – I’m really suprised so many people think they look trashy…but I guess if your nails are long, I can see this. Interesting!
Wondering!
With wearing dress/work pants: I am looking for an alternative to heels… does anyone rock the loafers look? I have seen some cute ones online- some have a tiny heel, tassels, some are shiny, etc. Is this work-appropriate with pants? Any favorites?
Erin M.
Yes. My current favorites are Clarks (I think the style was called Jes) and a Naturalizer pair with a 2″ stacked heel. I think they look fine with pants so long as they’re well-polished and not scuffed.
Lucy
It’s work appropriate but can look frumpy. I have a friend who pulls this off beautifully but on me it looks dreadfully frumpy.
Cole Haan makes cute loafers. If you’re spending a bit more, Tods is fantastic.
But again, try before you buy. My friend looks fab, I look like I gave up on life.
Anonymous
Yes, I love loafers, and am currently searching for another pair. I tried on Cole Haans recently but many of them had problems — either too masculine/big, too much rubber, etc. Aim for ones that are feminine looking, that’ll help with the frump factor, and also aim for ones that aren’t too casual looking, that’ll keep them professional for the office.
If you see any you like, please post!
Chicago K
I think a lot depends on the pants too. I see women wearing cute flats, but always with very wide legged pants so they just kind of “peek out.” If your pants are at all too short or tapered and too much of the shoe shows I think they will look a lot frumpier.
I guess an exception to this would be the skinny jeans/leggings/ballet flat combo. But with dress pants, it definately applies.
Anonymous
I recently bought a pair of black Ferragamo loafers that are sooo comfy that I wear with suiting pants. To me, loafers seem inherently more masculine looking than ballet flats, but I don’t let this stop me from wearing them.
Emily
I just came across the Naturalizer Jasmine pump on endless. They have a loafer look and low, chunkier heel but still seem to be a little more feminine. I haven’t tried these, but maybe these would work for what you have in mind?
Anonymous
I have a sort of dumb question…. I bought a sweater dress that really needs to be worn with a belt over it, but it doesn’t come with one. While I can find one myself, what about the lack of belt loops? How does the belt stay up comfortably? Obviously everyone else seems to have managed this, as this look is so popular these days, but I’d worry about the belt slipping down — or having to cinch it too tight to make it stay up. Maybe I’m more worried too because I’m pretty straight up and down, no real hips. Should I get belt loops sewn in by a tailor, or just trust that if everyone else can do this than I can too?
ClerkChic
2 things can help:
A real leather belt that has the “textured” part on the untanned side of the leather stays up really well.
A belt that is at least part elastic will stay where you put it much better than a fully leather belt.
Lucy
There are belts that are wider & meant to be worn sans loop. These would probably work well.
Also I have seen wide leather sash belts (check the sale section at Talbots), this would also solve your problem.
Anonymous
Thanks to both of you!
Marla
Anyone in Europe? Need advice on whether I can wear knee high (or slightly below) black leather boots with skirt suits or skirts/other tops for meetings in Europe in early March. I would do it in the US (they’re business or business casual) but I’m not sure if people in Europe are as boot-happy as people in my city are. (BTW: going to several countries in the north, south, and east.)
Sarah
I lived in France for a bit, and I never saw a woman wearing a skirt suit and boots. If I did, I would assume that the woman worked in the fashion industry, which is why she was wearing the special new boots that are the hot item that season. And don’t think the men, because they are men, won’t notice.
Granted, it would be something different if you had to trudge through the snow in your skirt suit. Boots, then, would be appropriate (obvi). :-)
Y
I would say that just like the US, it depends on the crowd, you don’t want to be known as “the American with the boots” if everyone else is in full suits. But my experience in Europe is that people are very into boots there as well.
la peagoise
just moved back from france fairly recently; in the winter time, i don’t know that i saw anyone NOT wearing boots. granted, i was working as a teacher so i wasn’t exactly in the same circles you’ll be in, but given the dreary rainy/snowy/cold weather europe has in winter… plus all the walking? boots are WAY more popular there than they are here (although “here” for me is the deep south, so i might be skewed in my perception).
Marla
Thanks, ladies!
Anne Vohl
Painting nails is “relaxing” because you are breathing in some of the fumes from the nail polish.
Colette
Seeing as how the weekend is most definitely over, I don’t really expect any response, but I posted earlier about nail polish for a call back interview for a summer internship in an in-house legal department. Nail polish issue has been resolved but I was also wondering about a bag to bring. For interviews, I typically bring only my zipper leather portfolio, no bag/purse or anything, but for the call-back I am meeting with the same person I met with at the initial interview, and he has seen my resume, transcript, etc. already. I still plan to bring that stuff with me, but is it ok this time to bring my usual plain black purse? I’m more comfortable with it than with my portfolio alone, and the portfolio fits inside, and it fits nicely over my shoulder. Is this ok/normal?
Erin M.
If your purse looks like a professional bag that you’d carry to work, it’s fine. If it looks like a purse purse, I’d lean against it, although if it’s fairly nondescript it’s unlikely to be a distraction.
Chicago K
I would agree – I think that a purse looks unprofessional. But if it’s a more of a bag/tote than that should be fine. Another option would be a briefcase, but it sounds like you want to either do the purse or just the portfolio. I would say go for the portfolio unless the purse is more of a shoulder bag…