Dear Abra,
I have a lot of really fine hair which becomes a static mess as soon as it gets dry out. Can you recommend any hair products or treatments that would help?
– Megan
There are a few things you can do to minimize hair static. First, you can dry your hair with a
First, you can dry your hair with a blow-dryer that has an ionic setting. I am obsessed with my Harry Josh blow dryer. If you’d like something cheaper, I also like Hot Tools dryer.
Second, try a hydrating styling cream like this one from Moraccanoil. It fights frizz and static by hydrating and nourishing hair.
Lastly, keep a few dryer sheets in your purse or desk. You can rub them on your hair to eliminate frizz. You can also rub them on your hair brush or comb to prevent frizz.Hi, can you recommend any flat shoes to wear to weddings? In the summer/for casual weddings I often wear strappy sandals or even Jack
Hi Abra,
Can you recommend any flat shoes to wear to weddings?
To take it even a step further, my IDEAL shoes would not have a strap around the ankle as those can be SO unflattering for those of us who suffer from wide calves! However, I know beggars can’t be choosers and most shoes these days do have ankle straps, so not the end of the world.
Would love any ideas!! Meaghan
Badgley Mischka makes a pair of satin flats with crystals for formal events. These silver glitter flats from Banana Republic are also an option. These affordable sheer flats with crystals are a lot of fun.
If I had to pick a pair for myself, I would choose these gold flats from BHLDN.
Dear Belle,
I need some advice about inclement weather attire. I live in the PNW and most fall outerwear (like that gorgeous quilted Barbour jacket) comes without a hood. What do you do to stay dry and not wear a plastic poncho all the time? Thanks!
– Sandra
If you must have a hood, this North Face Ancha Parka is a good choice. This Barbour Velum Jacket is the high-test, high style version. For something under-$125, this Land’s End Rain Parka is a good option. This coat also comes in petite and plus-sizes.
Hi Abra,
I’m looking for a gel moisturizer under-$20. I love the Drunk Elephant one, but it’s just too rich for my bank account.
Jo
Gel moisturizers are had to come by in that price point, but there are a few. A number of beauty bloggers recommend this Garnier gel moisturizer in oily/combination or dry skin formula.
Dear Abra,
I’m searching for a faux wrap dress to replace one that I’ve just worn out. Navy or black. Hopefully, under-$175. Have you seen anything?
AS
Wrap dresses and faux wraps are very versatile. You can wear them to work, to dinner, or on the airplane when you need to arrive business ready.
I own this $108 Karen Kane dress, and it’s a wonderful option. Anne Klein also has this $99 navy faux wrap. For something truly affordable, this Charter Club dress comes in a variety of colors for $39.
Plus-size? The Karen Kane dress comes in plus sizes. This red bell sleeve wrap dress is also a stunner. Petite? The Karen Kane dress also comes in petite.
Want to splurge a bit on a wardrobe essential? MM LaFleur’s Casey dress is a must.
Re: gel moisturizer- I really like Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer. Absorbs like a dream!
For the gel moisturizer – not under $20, but for $30, you can get one from either Paula’s Choice or First Aid Beauty. I’ve tried and liked both, and still use the Paula’s Choice one.
https://www.sephora.com/product/skin-rescue-oil-free-mattifying-gel-moisturizer-P394502?skuId=1670124&icid2=products%20grid:p394502
https://www.paulaschoice.com/skin-balancing-invisible-finish-moisture-gel/340-3400.html?CAWELAID=120196850000000309&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=38022810435&CATCI=pla-42887964504&ftlt=branded&utm_medium=cpc_shopping_brand&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=usbrandpla&utm_adgroup=3400&adid=163991193008&addisttype=gpla&gclid=CJHtgpTCqtcCFQGNswodkzwLrg&gclsrc=ds
Had the same issue recently of trying to find a more affordable gel moisturizer. Stumbled upon that Garnier one and so far so good—hasn’t made me break out and is doing a decent job moisturizing for the price point. I’ll definitely need to swap for something heavier once winter hits D.C., but it’s a great option!
Jo, I adore the Neutrogena HydroBoost Moisturizer, which comes in right at your price point! It feels like jumping into a pool every time I use it.
For warm showerproof outwear, UK brands are hard to beat. I like Boden and Joules, and shipping to the US has always been fast. Plus, Boden’s return policy is fantastic.
Another suggestion for moisturizer for oily acne-prone skin is Cerave PM lotion. My dermatologist originally introduced me to it, and I’ve been using it for several years. I use it both in the morning (followed by a separate dedicated sunscreen) and also in the PM. It’s available in most drugstores and is only $8-$10 for 3oz.
Seconding the Cerave PM — it easily replaced my Clinique gel moisturizer (which I never liked much anyways). The texture is fantastic under makeup.
I am also a Megan with fine, staticky hair (not the one who wrote in), and I’ve had good luck with the It’s a 10 products. I use the Miracle Shine Spray, which has noni oil in it and helps tame flyaways as well as static. I also use the Miracle Leave-In product which works as a detangler without leaving gross oiliness on my hair.
What are the benefits of a gel-based moisturizer over a cream one? I’m looking to step up my moisturizer game but my budget is also in the under $20 range.
FYI, you can buy a detachable hood for classic barbour coats, like the Beadnell. https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/barbour-beadnell-hood/3325177?country=US¤cy=USD&cm_mmc=google-_-shopping_ret-_-662927206-_-34014205899_20005ccd-7859-b329-6376-000013f94c30&cm_mmca1=pla-260334080561_54455290&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIh4_LueOq1wIVjpx-Ch1Mzg9AEAQYASABEgIoyfD_BwE
I also have fine hair and use Oribe dry conditioner on the ends/length to tame flyaways. Not cheap, but a little goes a long ways. It’s also a good partner when your roots need dry shampoo but the rest is a static mess.