Ask the Edit: Vol. V, No. 20

Another Thursday, another Ask the Edit.  Dry cuticles, shoes for summer, short robe suggestions, and more in today’s reader mail.  You ask, I answer.

Good morning Abra,

I recently bought this Brooks Brothers blazer and love it.  However, I am at a loss for what tops to wear under it.  I do not like the look of a collared shirt sticking up past the neckline of the blazer, but feel my v-neck t-shirts look ‘off’.  I would like to incorporate this blazer into both my casual and professional wardrobes!

Love the blog!  Thanks! -MM

For a collarless jacket, I would stick to Mandarin collars or crewnecks.  I found this navy Tara Jarmon blouse or this white Thomas Mason tuxedo blouse.  For a simple crewneck, try this silk, navy Reiss tee or this Cuyana silk tee in white or navy.  Start with these basics and then see where you end up.

Hi Abra,

I love your blog and all your advice! What would you recommend for work shoes this summer? I’m looking for cute pointed toe flats, maybe mules, or some low-mid heels that I can wear all day and stay cool while walking/commuting.

Thanks! – Catherine 

If you are looking to splurge a bit, I think M.Gemi has the cutest shoes I’ve seen anywhere.  These Elba flats have a mesh vamp that gives them a summery vibe.  Their popular Stellato menswear-inspired flat comes in a wide variety of summery hues.  And their Paradiso strappy flat is perfect for summery dresses.

For mules, I still like this feminine BP. mule with a structured bow.  Another option are these Jeffrey Campbell mustard flats with a high-fashion look.

Low heels are tougher.  Some people find them comfortable, some don’t.  For me, the only low-heel to buy if you’re looking for comfort are these Michael Kors Flex kitten heels.  They also come in a fun silver metallic for summer wedding.

Hello,

Can you help me find a short robe?  I’m going to a wedding this spring and sharing a room with some other girls and would like one to wear while getting ready.  Under-$100, please! 

Anya

I love short robes.  I think they’re a great alternative to wearing the hotel robes, which can be too bulky.  And the best place to shop for them is Nordstrom Rack because most of them cost less than $50.

This black and white Room Service robe is so cute.  This Maidenform satin robe is a classic.  And this Natori wrap robe comes in misses and plus sizes.

Hi Abra!

I just found out the SaaS company I work for landed a huge contract with one of the world’s largest cosmetic companies. I’m expected to be onsite for a week long project kick-off event in less than two weeks.

It’s a great career opportunity but I’m stumped on what to pack.  The SaaS world I live in is full of casual dresses and jeans but this clearly calls for me to step up my game. Any suggestions for dresses that will travel easily but still be appropriate for a week in NYC with a mixed group of creatives, techies, and executives? It’s been a few years since I worked in a traditional corporate environment and my wardrobe is lacking.

Cheers, S

If I were in your situation, I’d pack dresses and structured flats/comfortable heels.  I might bring one blazer and one structured cardigan, but I’d mostly be in dresses the whole time.

My go to for these situations is always MM. LaFleur.  I like how some of their dresses mix feminine and corporate elements.  I just bought their Hanna dress and I can’t wait for it to get here.  I also highly recommend the Taylor dress (but if you carry your weight on the bottom, size up).  Need sleeves?  The Ellis dress in ponte fabric is a good option.

The other great thing about MM. dresses is that many of them are machine washable, so you can wash them in a hotel laundry room if need be.

Another option would be wrap dresses.  I think this Maeve polka dot dress would look smashing with a black pump.  And if you’re still stumped, this Black Halo Jackie O dress is a good look for almost any occasion.

Hi Belle,

My nails are so beaten up from winter.  What do you use on your hands?  Body lotion?  Something else?  My cuticles need your help.

KT

I use O’Keefe’s Working Hands when my hands get dry.  I work it into my nails at night before I go to sleep.  If you want to get really serious about it, you can add a pair of moisturizing gloves/socks.

However, if your cuticles are the problem, you might try a cuticle oil.  I like NCLA So Rich cuticle oil.  If you need a kit to help you get your nails in shape, this Deborrah Lippmann cuticle kit has everything you need from the oil to the orange stick.

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