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Updated: Nov 1, 2018 182 Comments · by

Splurge Monday: Everly Peplum Jacket

The Personal Shopper (TPS)

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Our daily TPS reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices. Zoe Everly JacketHappy Monday! I'm digging this black and white tweed peplum jacket from Rachel Zoe — it has so many traditional feminine elements (peplum! tweed!) yet somehow feels fresh and… kind of badass. Very cool. It's $450 at Piperlime. (And here's a fun question, readers: what do you think of the brown leopard clutch styled with the all-black outfit? I normally don't like to style black and brown together, but maybe that's me… the leopard perhaps works better because of the black spots? Hmmn.) Rachel Zoe Everly Peplum Jacket P.S.: here's a less expensive version (also here and here), and a plus-size version. P.P.S.: Interested in more plus-size content from Corporette? Please sign up here. Seen a great piece you’d like to recommend? Please e-mail tps@corporette.com.

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Comments

  1. Anonymous

    After years of my marriage being on the rocks, I finally asked my spouse for a divorce. I’ve read a lot of the traditional self-help books, but for those of you who’ve been through this, what advice do you wish you’d had/followed? TIA.

    • anon

      I wish that I had listened to all those already divorced friends that told me not to try to rush recovering because time would eventually make it all better. Rushing got me nowhere, but 4.5 years down the road, my life is better than ever. No exaggeration.

      Also, even if you have to gag yourself, resist the urge to make war, especially in the courts. The one non-stupid thing I somehow managed to do was stay calm and negotiate the financials. That left me 6 figures ahead of those who preferred to fight to deny their ex the last penny, just for the sake of making a point.

      Best of luck.

      • Anonymous

        A friend of mine recommended the book “The Good Divorce” by Constance Arons. I found it very helpful. I agree with the previous poster — time does help. While you are going through it, your life feels very unsettled. Eventually that will pass and you will settle into a new routine and a hopefully more satisfying life. You will come out the other side better and stronger.

    • Anonymous

      One of my friends suggested writing down your goals for one year from now and pausing before decisions to re-read them. So if your goals are: be divorced, have half the retirement savings, and have a nice home, then you probably need to make decisions that favor quick solutions, prioritize those accounts and let other things go, and giving yourself a budget to redecorate before buying a whole new single lady wardrobe.

    • Anontoo

      Don’t make any big decisions in year one. Don’t change jobs if you can help it, don’t buy a house in a hurry because you’ve sold your matrimonial home, don’t cut off all your hair (I did all three – not my best decision-making). Also, quickly develop strategies to deal with the shock of feeling alone. Write in a journal when you would normally talk about your day with your spouse, develop a mindless hobby (for me it was coloring books – sounds silly, but it filled some of that weird void time), etc…

    • adding machine

      I’m going through this now also so I’ll be following the responses. Which books have you read so far?

    • Senior Attorney

      I have recently been through this and here are my thoughts, in no particular order:

      Get a really, really good lawyer. Ask around to your friends and acquaintances who have been divorced. If you have any connections with your local family law judges, ask them for referrals because they know who the best lawyers are.

      Make sure you have enough cash on hand to finance the divorce and your new household. I can’t emphasize this enough. You will need a war chest to finance things until the divorce is final and everything is distributed. Relatedly, cut way back on your spending. Vacations and new clothes can wait until you see how financially devastating the divorce is going to be.

      Related to finances again, get all your documents together regarding bank accounts, retirement funds, investment accounts, etc. You will need to know what you have before you can divide it up. Also the more organized you are and the more information you have, the less expensive it will be because your lawyer won’t have to figure it out for him- or herself.

      And yes! Do. not. make. war. in. court. Unfortunately Mr. Senior Attorney did not heed that advice, and it ended up costing him gigantic attorney fees and he ended up with a worse settlement than the one I offered before he went to war. My philosophy has always been “I’d rather use my money to buy more stuff than to pay a lawyer to fight with you over the stuff.” On the other hand, don’t be afraid to be tough if your spouse gets all crazy. (See “get a great lawyer,” above.)

      On a personal note, the developmental task on your plate right now is to break the attachment to your husband. To the extent possible, that means no contact. It’s painful as hell but it’s the best way. And you should expect to feel horribly, hellishly bad for months. Then you will feel some bad and some good for months. And then one day you will realize that you feel good. I’m about 1.5 years post-separation and life is better than I could have imagined, but I still have a bad day every now and then. Be gentle with yourself and just keep telling yourself every bad day is another bad day behind you.

      • cbackson

        Seconding all of this. The good ladies of thissite told me that one day I would truly feel better, and that day would come sooner than I expected. And they were right. Almost four years post-divorce, I’ve never been happier or more fulfilled than I am today.

      • adding machine

        Senior Attorney, I wanted to thank you for opening up about your relationship with your narcissist ex-husband over a month ago when another poster was asking for advice. You sharing your story helped me find the courage to file for divorce and end mine.

        • Senior Attorney

          Wow! I’m sorry to hear that you were in such a situation, but happy to have provided some motivation to get out! Wishing you nothing but better times ahead!!

    • DC Association

      Do you have children or no? Asking before I give advice. I’m 1.5 years post divorce withe one child.

      • Anonymous

        OP here. No kids in my case. We are both big law with substantial salaries and assets, which is both a blessing and a curse (since both of us can support ourselves, but there’s more to divide/fight over).

        Also, working on retaining an attorney now. Luckily got some good references from the partners at my firm.

  2. Ponte rant

    I know that this s i t e generally likes ponte (it’s stretchy! it’s often washable!), but I think I’m over it. I’ve got two good ponte dresses. I’ve got two others where the inside seams don’t ever sit flat and it just looks lumpy. The fabric has enough rayon and nylon it it that I’m worried about scorching it with the iron and ruining the dress (so it just sits there, lumpy). I’ve got another one where the body has give but the zipper is rigid, so where it ends around my butt it is has a *very* awkward effect, like a vestigial mini-tail.

    I never had these issues with tropical wool and I think I’ve got to give up on ponte for now. Plus, wool is usually lined, IMO making it easier to wear with tights in cool weather (slips are good, but I have a few dresses now that have slits in the wrong places for my current slip inventory).

    At any rate, I give up. Still a fan of the ON Pixie Pant (and the LE ponte pants), but I think I’m getting off the ponte dress train despite really want to drink the kool aid.

    • Clementine

      Have you tried using a pressing cloth? Test an inconspicuous place with the seams; however, I have been able to use an old pillowcase to prevent the scorching/burning factor while helping the seam lay flat.

    • tesyaa

      I am not a ponte fan either. Yes, it’s thicker and more professional that cotton jersey, but other than that I don’t see the appeal. Not only that, it pills heavily, sooner or later.

      • Red Beagle

        I like my Lands End ponte dresses (2) in two different colors, and I have a lined Tahari and a WHBM black drop-waist that are all doing fine so far, but I am definitely open to new fabrics as well. I am just waiting for them to either come out lumpy in the wash or pill, which they will, being polyester.

    • AIMS

      I don’t like ponte either. It pills quickly (sometimes instantly), it’s often too clingy, wool is, on me anyway, much more flattering because it drapes better over any lumps or bumps, and, to my eye, ponte just never looks that dressy/professional. I have a couple of ponte items that are, yes, are very comfortable, but every time I wear them it feels likes “I-give-up Friday.” I finally decided there is just no reason for me to feel like that when I wear something. Some times I read things on this s*te and I think maybe I’m missing something/getting the wrong type/etc., but ultimately I am so much happier with my clothing after having more or less decided that it’s just not for me.

    • roses

      side question – how does one pronounce “ponte?” I always use it in writing but I don’t think I’ve ever had to say it in real life.

        • Equity's Darling

          This is what Tim Gunn said on a Project Runway episode, so it must be right.

      • lucy stone

        I always thought it was pahn-tay, with the ‘pon’ sounding like ponder.

          • HSAL

            That’s how I’ve always said it in my head, but the consensus seems otherwise. The Internet isn’t helpful, with some people also suggesting pawn-tee. Anyone have an authoritative source?

          • A Nonny Moose

            So does the first syllable of “ponder,” unless I’m pronouncing ponder wrong.

          • National_Anthem

            I’ve always said it like “font” as well – it never occurred to me that I wasn’t pronouncing it correctly, but no one has ever corrected me… Hmmm.

      • Unicorn

        I definitely avoid saying it cause I feel like I sound like a jerk when I say it for some reason. #awkwardpeopleproblems

    • Anon

      If your dress is functionally ruined by being lumpy, why not just try ironing it to see if it can be rescued?

      • Ponte rant

        I think that when there are curved seams and the fabric is stiff (like ponte), it is hard to iron the seams flat on the reverse side as they curve. Also, it creates marks on the front side of the dress (like unintentional detailing). It’s just not an A+ look.

        The bigger offenders are darts and seams down the middle of the front / back and waist seams (without further detailing — those with more deliberate decorative waist seaming seem to escape this and look more polished).

        I am now thinking of ponte as the office equivalent of sweatpants. Maybe will demote to travel attire, since that does look better than gym attire and the stretchiness will be a plus.

      • tesyaa

        I think it’s not a wrinkling issue, it’s that the seams or the thread sewing them shrink or bunch in a way that pressing can’t undo.

    • Susie

      I have several Classique Entier ponte dresses and they are pretty much my favorite things in my closet. I always get compliments on them. I am the laziest person and hardly ever iron anything; I’m pretty sure I’ve thrown them in the washer and dryer, hung up, and wore the next day. So guess I’m Team Ponte.

  3. BethC

    Can anyone recommend some postpartum work clothes? I go back part time at 8 weeks post partum. I worked from home after my first, so my wardrobe didn’t matter. I’m 20 lbs above pre-pregnancy weight, so my normal clothes are out. But if I buy the size that fits my waist, it’s huge everywhere else. Ideally need something that works for pumping and nursing. Help!!

    • Ponte rant

      It’s a tough time, fashion-wise.

      My uniform was: pants, some sort of microfiber shell, a jacket or sweater (for ease of with pumping). The pants were all worn into the ground. I think I went 2 sizes up and got the washable tailored synthetic ones from Talbots (they were nice to start with and I had tan and black, but I wore them each about 2x/week for about 9 months after each baby and they didn’t require ironing if you snatched them quickly out of the dryer, for which I will always be grateful to Talbots).

    • Anonymous

      If the only issue with bottoms is your waist, what about a belly band to hold up pants that fit everywhere else? I couldn’t stand to wear one after I’d had the kid so I bought cheap pants a size or two up (went to LOFT on a 40% off day) to tide me over but it might work for you if you can stand it. I also just sized up one size in SML tops. When I found something that was semi-flattering (considering) and machine washable, I bought it in every color and wore it into the ground… then again when I pumped I just removed my top entirely. And I didn’t nurse in work clothes if I could help it. I changed the second before I left the house and the second I returned. If I had to nurse in a work top, I just lifted it up. I never bought nursing friendly tops to wear to work, although I did avoid dresses because sitting naked to pump was a lot worse than sitting topless.

    • Flying Squirrel

      I went back to work a bit later than you, so I wasn’t necessarily looking for work clothes at 8 weeks. But I did continue to wear my maternity jeans until about 12 weeks. Depending on the band you had, maybe some of your second trimester maternity bottoms will still work for you?

      Otherwise, I found I was back in regular dresses much sooner (then again, I tend to wear a-line everything).

      Once I returned to work, I did end up buying two pairs of regular work slacks 2 sizes up relatively cheaply (on sale from WHBM and LOFT). The WHBM actually didn’t need any tailoring (aside from a hem). The LOFT pair did require a bit of adjustment around the waist, but the legs worked for me since in my case I’ve retained a lot more weight in my rear/thighs than just my belly itself. 8 mos PP and still 10 lbs to go!

    • Need to Improve

      No pants at this phase. They just don’t look right (as you note). I would focus on wrap dresses, which are super forgiving and will continue to work on your shrinking body.

      Also, I never hunted for pumping friendly clothing. I figured if I have to close my door and get the whole get-up on, I may as well just take off my top or dress. Once you get past the psychological barrier of being naked in your office, it really makes sense because you do not have to limit your clothing choices. No matter where you pump, it’s going to be somewhere where no one can see you, so no harm if you have to get a little naked.

  5. Employee Stock Purchase

    For those of you who have the option of taking part in an employee stock purchase plan, do you do so? What % discount do you get? Do you also receive stock as part of your overall compensation package, and did that influence your decision to take part in the stock purchase plan (or not take part, if you choose not to)?

    Thanks!

    • layered bob

      Before law school I did have an ESPP. I did not receive stock as part of my compensation and but I still felt like stock in the company was a good investment. I got 15% off so I reasoned that even if the stock price did not increase or decreased somewhat, it was still a better return than most other investments available. I contributed up to the maximum (10% of my salary could be put towards stock), and then held it for a year or so. I would then try to sell some of it at a relatively high point and use the proceeds to diversify.

    • Spirograph

      I’ve been wondering about this as well, since the window for me to enroll in the program is currently open. Stock is not part of my compensation package, and I do not currently participate in the program. Employees purchase stock at 95% of the close price, and the shares are immediately vested.

      I work for a company that is a major player in the industry with a large cap stock that is almost universally ranked “outperform.” It’s currently trading about 10% off its 2 year max price, and other than it being my sole source of income, I don’t have any other exposure to this industry in my portfolio… Not quite sure why I haven’t pulled the trigger yet, now that I think of it.

    • Anon2

      I have an option of participating in ESPP. I contribute the max which is 5% of my salary and I get the shares at a minimum 15% discount. I have got shares for half the market value once. It is always a good deal compared to other investments. Your money that too which is paid every month(not lump sum) increases by minimum 15% at the end of six months. I generally sell when the price if good after 1.5 years of grant date as it counts as long term investment. I also get stocks as part of my compensation. That didn’t influence my decision to participate in ESPP. I sell the stocks that I receive as part of compensation any time after 1 year as long term capital gain taxes apply after one year. Every one I know in my company participate in ESSP though they may choose to sell it right away as it is still a good deal.

      • Sarabeth

        Just to be clear on the tax stuff – my understanding is that the amount of the discount is taxed as income regardless of when you sell. Any increase/decrease after the shares are purchased is taxed as capital gains (and thus differently depending on whether you hold them for more or less than a year). I’d love for someone with better info to clarify, though!

        • Anon2

          My understanding is for ESPP, the discount amount or whatever discount you effectively get if the stock price has gone down from the day it was granted to you and you sold them is reported as part of your wages in W2 if you sell it before 1.5 years from the day stocks were deposited to your account. If you sell later than that, the amount you gain will not be reported in your W2. You have to report it as capital gain. But, since you mentioned it and I am by no means a tax expert, I want to check it once again. The other stock that you get as part of your compensation which vest over time is reported in W2 the year they are vested and tax is deducted as well (say 100 shares vest, I get 40 – 50 shares after tax deduction). So if you sell them immediately or sell it at the same price at any other time, you tax liability will be zero. If there is any gain on those shares and you sell within one year, then it is considered as short term capital gain. If you hold them for more than a year, then sell them, any gain will be long term capital gain.

    • Anonymous

      I do have the option. The company matches purchases up to 1% of your salary, at a rate of 1 share for every 4 shares purchased. I always participate and then cash out yearly, moving the $$ into a more diversified retirement account- it’s basically free money because my company has a very stable share price, why would I say no?

      I also receive shares and options as part of my compensation, though that didn’t impact my choice to particpate in the ESPP.

    • Sarabeth

      This is my husband’s plan, not mine. 15% discount, amount is deducted over the course of 6 months, vests immediately on purchase. We sell as soon as the purchase go through – the company is in good shape, but given that 60% of our household income is already tied to it, we’d rather have our money in a diversified portfolio. Bonuses are also in stock, which does not vest immediately, but which we also sell as soon as it vests.

      My opinion: if the discount is significantly better than expected return on your other investments, take it. It’s free money. Then, separately, decide whether you want to keep the stock or sell it.

      • Employee Stock Purchase

        How do you decide your participation %?

        Our plan provides a 15% discount, and contributions are via % deductions from paychecks. I also receive a stock bonus (in addition to a cash bonus). Once the stock bonus vests, I sell 85% and keep the remaining 15% invested.

        • Sarabeth

          We do as much as they will let us ($5,000 per six month cycle, IIRC). In our case, I can’t think of another investment that would return 15% over six months virtually risk-free. Again, we look at it as free money, so we’ll take as much as they’ll give us!

  6. Anon

    The saks link isn’t working for me – is it working for anyone else? I’m in love with jackets like this so really wanted to see all the options!

  7. Sunshine

    I’ll be in Atlanta W-Th-Fri to recruit at an MBA conference in the Georgia World Congress Center. I’m staying at the Hilton Atlanta.

    Any recommendations for quick bites to eat near the GWCC for breakfast and/or lunch? Also interested in dinner options, preferably steak, Italian, or American (code words for “I’m kind of a picky eater”).

    One more question, how bad will traffic be? I arrive at 5pm Wed and my departure is 7:30pm Fri.

    TIA!

    • LawyrChk

      GWCC is downtown, which candidly doesn’t have the same quality of restaurant options as other parts of town. That said, I’d suggest Alma Cocina (high-end mexican) or Ray’s (seafood and steaks). I’ve also heard great things about White Oak Kitchen (American/Southern gourmet). Those should all be walking distance from your hotel.

      If you have the time, I’d strongly recommend a trip up to Midtown, which isn’t far (by Marta or a cab,which is probably $10 from there). Besides being a great place to walk around and people watch my favorite restaurants there are Lure, the Spence, the Lawrence, Ecco, and Empire State South Atlanta has a ton of great restaurants, but admittedly most of the best ones aren’t near a Marta station.

      Re traffic, I assume you’re coming from the airport. It won’t be bad coming into town on Wednesday, but Friday at 7:30 will likely be a beast. Add an hour for traffic Friday to be on the safe side, or if you’re going to the airport just take Marta.

      • cbackson

        Seconding all of the above. All of the restaurants LawyrChk mentions in Midtown are walkable from MARTA. Ecco is my favorite – I like ESS more for cocktails and appetizers (the jars! get the jars!) than for entrees.

        You’d have to cab for this, but for Italian, I love Bocca Lupo, Sotto Sotto, and Fritti, all in Inman Park.

      • AttiredAttorney

        Downtown: Alma Cocina and White Oak Kitchen for “fancy.” For fast/casual lunch spots, check out the Googie Burger stand in Centennial Olympic Park where you can nosh on a yummy burger and watch the musical fountain “show” that happens every 30 minutes in the Olympic Ring fountain. There are also lots of quick/casual spots on Broad Street for lunch- my favorites are Rosa’s Pizza and Naanstop.

        Also second getting into Midtown (Ecco or Empire State South), or into Inman Park (Rathbun’s, Krog Bar, Fritti) for some great dining options . Both areas are Marta accessible, but Uber is also cheap and fast, so I highly recommend downloading the app if you don’t have it already to get to those two areas.

        They’re touristy/cheesey, but since you’re staying downtown, I also recommend getting a drink at either the Sundial or Polaris. Certainly not worth it for a full meal, but definitely worth experiencing since you’re staying in the area.

        This also makes me think we need an Atlanta meet up :)

      • West Coast

        Work the network at the MBA conference. I had cocktail events and dinners every night hosted by prospective companies.

      • mascot

        +1 Atlanta has limited public transportation options as a general rule. However, MARTA to/from the airport to downtown hotels is something that does pretty well. If you want to go into Midtown, the Arts Center station and Midtown station for MARTA are options and there are always cabs.

        • Atl

          Did not realize there is such an ATL contingent here. Meet up, perhaps? Who knows?

    • Toffee

      Googie burger in centennial Olympic park is the best burger in town. CNN has a decent food court. For evening, The Sundial is fun and tasty. I agree with the suggestions above, also. Rays is my favorite. Friday night will be a madhouse for traffic.

      • Toffee

        Oh didn’t see the comment about downtown. Maybe I’m partial since I’ve worked here so long, but I prefer downtown for dining. Everything is easily walking distance and I’ve always liked the upscale dining options more here. Same for quick and easy lunches. More food court options, more quaint local dives, more of a city feel.

        • Sacha

          Despite my comment below, I agree that I enjoyed downtown eating options for lunches when I worked in the core, but GWCC is a bit outside of the food corridors I’m familiar with.

    • Sacha

      Unfortunately I can’t be much help with breakfast/lunch options. Downtown is tough for food options, but hopefully someone else will chime in. For lunch, if you can deal with a sports bar, STATS is nearby. I have heard that White Oak Kitchen is trying, and is nearby, but I haven’t been there.
      As for dinners, are you planning to stay downtown? If so, you’d probably be best sticking to the steakhouse chains given your preferences – BLT, Max Lager’s and Morton’s are all down there. Alma Cocina is the best restaurant downtown in my opinion, far and away, but it has a Latin concept, so may not be to your liking.
      As for traffic, it will be heavy. Think LA. Don’t rush to get out of the airport on Wednesday. Head out of downtown as early as possible on Friday. If you are willing to take public transportation, MARTA is going to be the best way to get back and forth, especially on Friday. Friday rush hour traffic is as bad as it gets. You won’t be very far from the airport, but it gets extremely congested downtown starting around 3:30/4 pm and the highways will be packed.

      • Toffee

        I love White Oak but it is NOT walking distance to the GWCC IMO. Same for the rest of these options. CNN and Googie Burger are and have sufficient options.

    • Sunshine

      Thanks for all the tips! Definitely open to going outside the downtown area for a nice dinner
      Kind of dreading the traffic; will plan to leave plenty early on Friday.

      • Toffee

        I’m dreading it, too, since I’m going to a concert at Phillips. If you’re driving, try to get on the road by 4ish, 5 at the latest. Between 3 and 6 is always bad. With all the concerts this weekend, it’ll be worse than usual. Friends and I hope to be at CNN by 4 for pre concert drinks.

      • Toffee

        Oh, just remembered. If you’re driving, know that Spring Street is under construction near GWCC. Avoid at all costs. It’s a major road and most directions will put you on it.

    • Anonymous

      In my opinion – Rathbun’s Steak is the best steak house in the city, and Rathbun’s (separate restaurant from Rathbun’s Steak) is also great for American food. Almost certain you need a car to get to either though! Also – if you want to experience classic Southern – I’d definitely suggest Mary Mac’s tea room – Atlanta staple.

      • Toffee

        *takes note* I honestly haven’t found a steak I love here. Will have to try Rathbun’s.

        • mascot

          Highland Tap was a favorite when I lived there- solid steak at a good price. Loved Rathbun’s, but through Rathbun’s Steak was over-seasoned. We tended to make steaks at home (sourced meat at Star Provisions when we felt splurgy, Costco’s Prime when not)

      • Sacha

        Second for Rathbun’s and Rathbun’s Steak, especially if you have an expense account and big pants. Was coming back to make the same recommendation if you said you weren’t tied to downtown. You will need a cab or car or Uber to get there. Other recommendations you got are also great. Sotto Sotto is the only pasta I’ll eat.

      • Em

        If you want to try “new” Southern, JCT Kitchen in West Midtown is one of my favs. I took my well-traveled, British boss there and he was very impressed. They’ve really built up the area so there also shops to poke around in and Jeni’s ice cream for dessert!

        Room at 12 is within walking distance to GWCC and is a good mid-level lunch option.

  8. layered bob

    My brother, 25, just broke up with his girlfriend. This was an agonizing decision for him – they were headed towards marriage but after a lot of work on the relationship he decided it wasn’t going to work. She is four years older and was more serious about him than he was about her. I’ve never broken up with anyone before (married the first man I dated) and I don’t have close friends IRL who have had very difficult breakups, so I am at a complete loss about what to do. De-friend her on facebook/untag her in our photos? Do I send my brother something? Not flowers… whiskey?

    • Sundae Funday

      No de-friending, no untagging, no gift. Just let him know you are there if he needs to talk and then actually be that listening ear if he needs it.

      • Brit

        Agreed – it may sound counter intuitive to not un-friend/tag, but it made me feel a little better about breaking up with my ex that his step-sister and parents didn’t automatically un-friend me as soon as they heard about it.

      • jc

        This. Check in on him, whether its a text or call or whatever. Just to see how he is and if he needs to talk, but don’t push him to do so.

      • Em

        I would check in with him about what he prefers. As much as I’m sure you like his ex, your first loyalty should be to your brother and he may want to cut all ties with her, including fb ties.

    • Anonymous

      He broke up with her because he didn’t like her as much as she liked him and didn’t want to be with her anymore. He’s 25. Be sympathetic and listen and that’s it. This isn’t really all that agonizing in the scheme of life experiences and I don’t think it requires special handling.

    • (Former) Clueless Summer

      Just because you haven’t gone through a breakup doesn’t mean you shouldn’t understand the right thing to do on a human level. Doesn’t untagging and de-friending someone on facebook sound juvenile and hurtful to you? If so, there is no reason to do it (on your part). Is your brother the type to appreciate gifts? I never get my friends gifts when they break up with someone, other than help and company, but if you are not in the same city, it may help.

      • Anon

        +1 plus, you never know what happens with them, and the unfriending piece can make relations awkward if they do get back together.

    • Baconpancakes

      Definitely hide her posts on FB, but no need to unfriend. Depending on your brother’s personality, he may need time to be alone and just mourn the relationship, distractions to keep him from wallowing, or a mix of the two. Keep your distance from her, but be polite if she reaches out to you, particularly if you were very close.

      If she was a lot more serious about him than he was about her, (this might not be true and might sound terrible but is often the case), he’ll probably be ok. Encourage him to take time away from dating and not rush into anything with anyone else. And touch base with him occasionally to see how he’s doing. A lot of men don’t feel comfortable talking about feelings with their friends – if that’s the case with him, having you call and available, and be someone he feels he can trust, might let him express feelings he otherwise wouldn’t. You’re clearly on Team Brother, so let him know that without vilifying his ex, and that might be all he needs.

    • Ellen

      Yay! Pricey Monday’s! I love Pricey Monday’s but this peeplum jacket is not my style (and not cheap either, Kat! We can’t all be bad tuchuses, as you say, tho I wish that I could just get a job in Soho doing fashion consulteing! FOOEY!

      As for the OP, hug’s to both of you, tho it is better to have them break up now, while they are UNDER 30 rather then get MARRIED and have to deal once your over 30, particulearly a woman, who’s eggs, like Grandma Trudy Says, “are NOT getting any fresher once she’s over 30.” Grandma Trudy is right b/c she popped out 3 kid’s by the time she was 30, and 2 more later. YAY for her! I am over 33, and still no kid’s! FOOEY b/c I do NOT even have an eligibel guy willing to MARRY me, yet, tho NOAH is my best bet at this point.

      I am takeing it slow with him b/c I do NOT want to LOOSE him by being to pushy but I want him to want me sexueally. Does the HIVE have any tip’s for me to snare an MD into MARRYING me? (not via pregeanancy tho — FOOEY on that). What turn’s an MD into wanteing to marry a JD who’s a partner and a litieagator? Is anyone in the HIVE a JD married to an MD? Or an MD married to a JD? Even my DAD cannot help here. All he say’s is to loose weight in my TUCHUS and the men will come running. It has NOT worked yet, tho I keep useing my FITBIT just in case! YAY!!!!!!

  9. CKB

    So, since I’m now a job seeker, I need to buy a suit for interviews.

    For the Canadians here, what stores do you recommend? I’m in Calgary, so I have access to lots of places to shop. Looking to spend less than $250, need to shop in person. I want a charcoal grey skirt suit if I can find it. I’m thinking Banana, Express, Le Chateau, The Bay. Any I should add or strike from my list? I’ve never bought a suit before! Always got by on blazers, but the positions I’m looking at this go round are much higher, but I seriously doubt I’ll need to suit up on a daily basis after I’m hired.

    • TO Lawyer

      I would stay away from Le Chateau personally, and depending on your body type, Express. Suits from those places tend to look more like tv lawyer suits than real suits in my experience.

      I usually have great luck with Banana suits and they have a grey suit in stock now I believe. The Bay is a good bet too. Jcrew stores usually don’t have suits in store and the sizing is odd so I would stay away (at least in the stores here).

      Is there a Massimo Dutti in Calgary? If so, they may have some nice options. I’m trying to think of other options under $250 but I’m currently blanking.

    • AMB

      I actually got a really nice suit at Le Chateau not long ago – a slightly lighter than charcoal grey skirt suit. I was in there the other day and saw they still had a sale on, which is good as I think their suits are worth $100ish but not much more. I like Banana as well but as I am fairly well endowed don’t find their blazers fit well.

      • anonymous

        I have actually found a couple of great suits at Le Chateau over the years (and I’m in a super conservative non-law industry) but you do have to be willing to hunt a bit and try on lots of options.

        Of all the crazy places, I’ve also gotten 2 suits at Aritzia. Some of the locations have an entire suiting section with lots of blazers, silk blouses, etc. One of my co-workers buys all her suits there. If you can find them, try them on- the fit is amazing and they look much better on than on the rack.

        Personally, banana suits don’t fit me well at all (to make blazers fit, I have to buy petite so the waist fits and then let out the sleeves) but they are probably worth a look and have lots of sales. It’s worth signing up for their mailing list (15% off to use in store or online when you sign up!) and to get the notifications of the sales (40% off occurs frequently, in my areas its 50% off today!) and you can always leave the mailing list once you don’t need it any more.

    • CKB

      Thanks guys – I’ll hit up The Bay & Banana first. What about Zara? Too trendy? I’ll see if I can find a Massimo Dutti

      And as someone who was a teen in the early 90’s – can I just say how weird it is to think about Le Chateau being a place to buy work clothes?

      • Equity's Darling

        Don’t forget about the Banana Factory Store at Cross Iron Mills- when I was a first starting as a summer student I got some great deals there. I also like Mexx for blouses- again, the Cross Iron Mills one is quite discounted. If you’re heading to the regular Banana stores, don’t pay full price- they have sales alll the time.

        • Rural Juror

          +1 for Mexx, it is hit or miss but one of my favorite suits is from there.

      • Nonny

        I think we are a similar age. I still can’t bring myself to go into Le Chateau. I feel like I outgrew it in 1995.

        I would say Zara would be too trendy for this….plus I don’t know what your body type is but I find I can’t buy anything remotely tailored at Zara as it seems to be cut for people with no hips (which is not me, but might be you).

        I agree with others that Banana is a good bet. Also, I haven’t been into one recently, but I used to buy suits at Femme de Carriere at about that price point and they were pretty good. It might be worth checking out.

    • KittyKat

      If you need silk shirts check out joe fresh. I’ve had good luck with the bay for suits. Good luck.

    • lawsuited

      For straight sizes, I recommend BR, The Bay, and Tristan. I will also make a plug for Talbots, because they have a lot of fabric/style/size options and because although they don’t carry much suiting in-store, you can order a bunch of stuff online and then return what doesn’t fit in-store in Calgary.

  10. Marilla

    Kat, can you clarify the purpose of the plus-size sign-up link? I’d be interested to see more plus-size content on Corpo—e as part of the regular posts (I think plus sizes should be integrated into mainstream fashion blogging!) but I’m not plus-size myself and don’t want a specialized email newsletter or anything like that. I also generally prefer not to sign up my emails to too many things. Is this intended to be more of a survey/poll type of thing, or are you contemplating a separate newsletter?

    • Kat G

      I’m still fleshing out the concept, and the number of signups will dictate how I proceed — if the demand is there I’ll work to create something. It may just be the occasional Hunt for plus-sizes or special deal-alerts just for plus-size stores — there’s a survey integrated into the newsletter signup (it’s the second email you get) that will hopefully tell me more about the audience interested in this. If you are not a plus-size customer yourself I’d probably skip signing up.

      (This is basically what I should have done as soon as I announced CorporetteMoms back in 2011!!)

      • Marilla

        Thanks for the detailed response! :) I’m not a plus-size customer myself but I have friends and sisters who are, so it would be great to know where to point them for cute stuff when they get down about clothing options. I won’t sign up for the newsletter but any added content on the main site, even on an occasional basis, would be great.

      • Meg Murry

        As a borderline plus -sized woman, I don’t want a “special” Hunt. I want to be included as at least 1 of the 6 items in a regular Hunt. I don’t think its asking too much that at least 1 of the fit and flare skirts out of 6 comes in larger sizes. My best plus-sized clothes are clothes that are just and extension of the regular size line and the same style – lines that are specifically plus-sized rarely work for me.
        I know its not always easy to find plus sized items. And I know that looking for an extra plus sized item every day can be a lot of work – I’m not expecting that. Honestly, I come here to look at the fashion, and stay for the conversation – I rarely come here to buy the fashion. I think if 2 days out of 5 have an item that I could wear, I would be happy. Its when an entire week of TPS reports and The Hunt items don’t contain a single item over a size 12 that I get frustrated and feel ignored. I would suspect petites or people who wear 00 probably feel the same way if an entire week didn’t fit them.
        And I don’t really want more email newsletters – I already don’t read most of the ones I get.

  11. (Former) Clueless Summer

    Express (as much as I love their pants for non suit days) is not somewhere I’d recommend for interview suits. J. Crew could also work but out of your price range, as is banana likely. Le Chateau is another no for interview suits. If you really want to spend less than $250, definitely check out the Bay and even…Sears. You won’t find anything really quality at Sears but it would be more conservative and appropriate than Express or Le Chateau. The Bay might be your best bet. Ann Taylor is a good bet although I find they don’t carry/run out of the basic suiting in my stores.

    • TO Lawyer

      I forgot about Ann Taylor – they had a grey suit the last time I was in (a couple weeks ago) that seemed nice.

  12. Shopping challenge for Splurge Mondays

    I think that this dress would be perfect for my pear-shaped self:

    http://www.michaelajedinak.com/AMELIA-in-Red-by-Michaela-Jedinak.html#

    1. Can any UK-based people confirm?
    2. Does any place in the US stock them?
    3. Any good pear-friendly wool sheaths similar to this to recommend? I cannot for the life of me fit into the JCrew Emmaleigh (recommended as being their only pear-friendly dress) and love that this one has sleeves.

  13. lucy stone

    My awesome paralegal has a child getting married this weekend. She’ll be off most of the week and next week. I’d like to do something to make the celebration special for her. Would it be weird to send flowers or Shari’s Berries to her house? Is there something else more appropriate to do? My H and I can’t make the wedding and we already sent the couple a gift, but I really want to make this special for our paralegal too.

    • Medic Maggie

      Could you send something for sometime next week, after the wedding, when she will undoubtedly be pooped from wedding-events? Send a dinner/have something delivered? Something like “Thought you could use a break, enjoy some Yummy Dinner of Some Sort”

    • ANP

      This is really sweet of you! I’d only send flowers if you know they’re going to be in town for the wedding, since if they’re traveling or staying at a hotel they won’t get to enjoy them. But flowers would be great, especially if she’s going to have family around, in and out of her house, etc. I don’t think you can go wrong with any expression of kindness/excitement, actually.

    • Unicorn

      I think a food basket of some sort would be great – she will likely be so busy helping with last minute wedding prep that she won’t have time to cook breakfast or will need to grab something quick for lunch – maybe a muffin or bagel basket, or a cheese/salami/cracker thing?

  15. Anon

    My aunt recently lost her husband of 40 years. She has asked for book recommendations for novels to read to take her mind off things while she’s grieving. Does anyone have recommendations for a couple of books I can send her? She’s in her 70s and an avid reader so it can’t be anything too “fluffy” but it still needs to be light and not sad. Thanks in advance!

      • anon

        I just read this after getting a lot of good recs, but hated it! So did my husband. I guess we’re outliers? Felt like the story had a lot of potential but the author just didn’t get it all the way there.

        • A Nonny Moose

          I agree with you. Such a disappointment.

          OP what about The Geurnsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society?

    • mascot

      Ok, this may go in the complete opposite direction, but Joan Didion’s The Year of Magical Thinking. I loaned it to my MIL (who is not an avid reader) after my FIL passed away. She said she was really able to relate to the book and that it helped her with some of her feelings.

      • Wildkitten

        I hear good things about reading this in her situation. Totally legit if she wants to read The Hunger Games first though.

    • Anonymous

      I really enjoy everything by Sharon Kay Penman. If she’s at all into historical fiction I’d send her one of those, and then if she likes it there are several more. Mysteries can also be really good. The first of the Lynley series by Elizabeth George perhaps? Does she have a local bookstore? If you ordered from there she’d be able to go in and exchange anything she’s already read.

    • CPA Lady

      I’ve been reading Bill Bryson’s travel books lately– they are both funny and interesting, and don’t go down the rabbit hole of the human condition or anything dark or sad. I’m currently on his book about Australia, “In a Sunburned Country”. I also really liked his book “A Short History of Nearly Everything”, which is not a travel book, but about the history of science.

      • 2 Cents

        +1 to Bill Bryson. Funny reads that I find are really relaxing. I also liked Notes from a Small Island (about his years in England) and A Walk in the Woods (about his attempt to hike part of the Appalachian Trail).

        If she’s into silly humor, Dave Barry, a former columnist for the Miami Herald, is one of the funniest writers I know. He’s got a bunch of books that range from collections of his old columns to nonfiction to fiction (I don’t personally care for his fiction). But warning, they are “silly” and not high-minded humor.

        • Gail the Goldfish

          +2 to Bill Bryson. I think his travel books are laugh-out-loud funny. In a Sunburned Country was probably my favorite, but they’re all entertaining (his non-travel stuff is still good, but not as funny to me).

          I also agree with the Deborah Harkness vampire trilogy if she doesn’t mind fantasy.

    • anne-on

      If she doesn’t mind fantasy, I was pleasantly surprised by how well written and detailed the Deborah Harkness vampire trilogy was, lots of discussion of historical events and art. Plus, they’re quite long, so lots to read.
      The books are older, but new to me, I really enjoyed the ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ series, very sweet and life-affirming. Along that same slant, the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society and Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand were very good.

    • Lorelai Gilmore

      I’ve really enjoyed all the books by Liane Moriarty. I would describe them as light, funny, but well-written women’s fiction. Other recent light reads: Crazy Rich Asians, both of the memoirs by Molly Wizenberg, The Actress by Amy Sohn, The Prime Minister’s Secretary (this is one of a series of books about spy capers and mysteries in WW2 England. They’re all fun!), and The Secret History of the Pink Carnation and it’s billions of sequels.

      • Lorelai Gilmore

        Oh, she might also like non-fiction – I love cooking memoirs, and some I’ve enjoyed have been Cooking for Mr. Latte by Amanda Hesser, Blood, Bones, and Butter by Gabrielle Hamilton, Heat (can’t remember the author, but it’s excellent), and the first book by Michael Ruhlman, which is about his time at the Culinary Institute of America. All fun reads.

    • Avril

      Another pick: The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker, this book is part historical fiction/part fantasy/part romance. I found it to be a good escapist read, she might like it. Look at the reviews on Amazon or GoodReads as well.

    • Nancy P

      Gary Shteyngart’s books. His memoir just came out and I found it very amusing; his novels are also amusing (although have some substantive themes behind them).

  16. Anonymous

    What gift have you given your mother/MIL that she really loved? Looking for last minute ideas. TIA!

    • Anon

      Not cheap, but the Clarisonic pedi was a hit. For good measure, I got it at Macys with a gift receipt for Mom-friendly returns.

    • Cat

      Kindle
      Magazine subscriptions
      Pound of good coffee + muffin delivery from harry & david or similar

      • Medic Maggie

        +1 to Kindle. the siblings/+my aunt & uncle got a Kindle Fire for mom last year. She still reads books from the library, but she reads a lot on the fire. She also uses it for general browsing, when she doesn’t want to fire up her dinosaur of a computer. She hasn’t gotten on FB because she’s scared that my sister and I won’t friend her. But, should she ever take that leap, the fire will be an easy way for her to stay connected to us via FB.

        If she has grandkids (either yours or others), Snapfish/shutterfly giftcards are always a hit. Or a photobook or something. Digital photo frame…

      • Burgher

        My MIL also loved her Kindle. We got her the paperwhite since she doesn’t really do the internet & uses it for reading only.

        Up for this next Christmas is a fancy kettle that she eyed up in the store. Tea and accessories are nice if she isn’t in to coffee.

      • Meg Murry

        +1 to Kindle, plus bonus points if you help her set it up to be able to check out books from the local public library (requires a login to the library ebook system + the password to the linked Amazon account). My mother likes her Kindle, but the initial setup to checkout ebooks from Overdrive is not all that straightforward and needs some hand holding if she isn’t super computer literate. We typed up instructions with screenshots and passwords to put next to her computer for how to do it.

    • Clementine

      A new kitchen under the cabinet radio with a CD player and MP3 input. She and FIL had a radio and because ‘it still worked’, they refused to get a new one. She loves being able to play CD’s in there now.

    • January

      Flowers. My mom is impossible to shop for, but flowers delivered on her birthday made her really happy.

    • Moon Moon

      A cast iron dutch oven. She uses it nearly every week. It’s the gift that keeps on giving (and, often, to me by way of delicious soups and chilis)

  17. Bonnie

    I don’t really get this jacket. It just has too many trends going on at once for me. I do love the linked Elie Tahari jacket though.

  18. Brooks Brothers Blazer

    I’m in moderation b/c of (I assume) a link.

    Reporting back on the teal Brooks Brothers Blazer from the September 9 post. It arrived and it is beautiful! I also purchased the three-button blazer in the bright blue color, equally stunning. Oh, and despite the photos of the teal, it is a 3 button blazer (not 2).

    • Bonnie

      The special lines usually sell out pretty fast in the stores. I did order a couple things online (free shipping with $50 purchase).

  20. OttLobbyist

    TJ – how much on average do you pay for blouses, tops or shirts to go under a suit jacket? It has been suggested (nicely, by a trusted friend) that I should look at slightly higher-end blouses and shells and I am having a hard time getting over my usual Target price point.

    • Woods-comma-Elle

      I’m probably in the same boat as you here as somehow to me paying more than about $40 for a top just seems excessive and most of mine are from H&M or (the ‘pricier’ ones) Express.

    • Anonymous

      Between $30 (Ann Taylor on sale) and $150 (beautiful silk blouse). I think your friend is right. As a lobbyist I’d think you probably have some important FaceTime obligations? Target has some decent stuff but as a general wardrobe staple I think you need to upgrade at least to the level of mall stores.

    • Cat

      do you prefer long or short/sleeveless?

      for long sleeves, $50-100 (ranges from JCrew or Brooks Bros. pieces on sale to pricier lines like Equipment or Theory on sale).

      For short sleeves or sleeveless, $30-50 (again, JCrew or Brooks Bros on sale; Talbots also has a lot of sleeveless silky tops at this price point, and they usually make it to a good markdown. Like they’ll start at $65 for a shell, but wait two months and it will be $39 + some percent off.)

    • Missk

      I’ve been spending $50-100 on my nicer silk blouses and they’ve been lasting longer/better than my poly $50 and under polyestor ones. I agree, it’s difficult when you can find a nice tropical wool dress on sale for less than $100.

    • anne-on

      Between $30-$90, all generally silk or natural fibers, all on steep sale at JCrew, Brooks Brothers, Banana Republic or the like. I find ‘classic’ silk blouses or shells are easy to pick up at a steal during the end of season sales. I tend to stock up then.
      Related – does anyone have any experience with the ‘Pure’ brand? I believe its British – I received a catalog and the cashmere looks yummy but concerned about it holding up.

    • tesyaa

      Maybe this is a weird answer, but it depends how often you take your jacket off. If you have the jacket off for a significant portion of the day, the shell should be roughly the equivalent quality of the jacket. If the shell is really there just to fill the neckline, I would still be OK with the Target shells.

    • Away Game

      Depends. For button front shirts, I love the Old Navy stretch poplin – they fit me perfectly; better than far more expensive brands – usually about $29 but sometimes go on sale. I have a few silk or nice patterned blouses from JCrew, one of which was full price at around 90 dollars. My go-to “I feel like wearing a t-shirt today” under-suit tops are Jones New York Platinum Silk Knit Shells (jewel neck, short sleeves, washable, tons of colors changing every season). Usually about $45, but often on sale (like now – $19). I wash them on delicate and lay flat to dry.

      • Fishie

        Do you purchase the Jones NY tops directly from the brand’s website or from a department store?

      • tesyaa

        I took a look at the JNY shell and I noticed that the sleeve length looks much longer on the black and red versions, compared to the other colors. Are they even the same top?

    • lucy stone

      Between $20 (Talbots or Loft on sale) and $60 (same stores, not on sale but I can’t resist it!). LOFT has a lot of great shells that are a step up. If you’re a straight size, Vera Wang at Kohl’s also appears to have some pretty cute things. A lot of my shells are silks from Talbots on sale.

    • KittyKat

      Go to joe fresh in St Laurent. I generally spend 15-30, all silk, cotton, linen, wool, ect. No synthetics. It requires some hunting, but it’s worth it.

    • anonsg

      Under $20. I only buy when it’s on sale, on clearance, or the clearance is on sale lolol.

    • Fishie

      I just started upgrading myself. I found nice silky tops at the Limited (around $30 but there’s usually a coupon), Nordstrom (Pleione tops $58) and via my Stitch Fix (around $50). I also found some decent Ts at The Limited. Good luck!

  21. Work advice needed

    I need some advice about whether to speak up or let something go at work . I’ve been a matrix-type project lead for 5 years in addition to my line management role (biotech) and by all accts have done a nice job . A junior coworker just got put in a similar role for a different, new project. He’s a little less seasoned than I, and I think some of his line management is concerned he will not do as good of a good job as a I have been doing. They are focused on helping him- and so am I , I like him and we work well together , but this concern for him failing in a role that I do well has morphed into basically downplaying the job I did – saying I got help that I did not get, inventing reasons why his role will be harder, making up actually inaccurate reasons why the job I did was easier. Should I just feel sorry that these folks are so scared and lame and let this all go, or should I stick up for myself? I’ve heard these almost denigrating comments first second and third hand now for a few days and it’s making my blood boil ! So disappointed we can’t just provide assistance and anticipate him doing well- instead we have to downplay and rewrite history of the job I’ve been doing !

    • Anne

      My thoughts: Check in with your manager to ensure that he/she has the true story. Also, not in front of the hire, speak to the ones that are spreading the comments and say what you’re saying here – in a reasonable voice with documented arguments.

      The hire has nothing directly to do with your points – he’s not the one saying them. It would probably be better for your relationship with him to avoid saying anything where he can hear it.

  22. so very anon

    I am a midlevel associate who wants to lateral from one Big Law firm to another. I’m getting a little freaked out because I’ve applied to close to 10 firms – through a recruiter – and I haven’t even gotten an interview. My resume seems pretty strong. I have good grades and journal experience from a top 25 law school. I’ve been at my current firm for several years now and have gotten great experience here. I know there are things that would make my resume even stronger, but I don’t seem to be missing anything crucial and I’ve heard the market is very hot right now in my geographic area. Is applying to this many firms without an interview normal? Anything I can do besides wait and apply to as many firms as possible?

    • Bee

      No, that’s weird. Based on what you’ve said, you should be getting more interviews. I’m inclined to think it’s a recruiter problem. What does the recruiter say?

    • Anon

      It totally depends on your practice area and honestly, your recruiter. They may not have good relationships with the firms.

  23. cbackson

    I have one week in Greece this fall. Suggestions? The parties involved have disparate interests (I’m all, history! and my friend is all, beach!).

    • LH

      I’d vote for dividing your time between Athens (history) and Santorini (beach). A week isn’t that long, and although the other islands are nice, Santorini is by far the best. We only had 1 full day in Athens and I felt like it was enough, but I’m not that big into history. I’d also recommend doing a daytrip to Delphi from Athens – we did that and it was really cool.

    • AN

      I was the history type so we spent 3-4 days in Athens and did trips to areas in the Peleponnese. You can do that plus spend 2-3 days in Santorini…..

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