Ask the Editor: Vol. III, No. Eleven

I have the bar exam next week.  I’m working full-time.  And keeping this blog up is going to be a little tough.  But let’s answer some reader questions to keep the content flowing.

Hi there,

I am starting a new job and will be rebuilding my professional wardrobe after a few years of working fully remotely. In the new role I will be traveling regularly, so I am looking for clothing that works for both travel and in person business meetings. The hard part is finding outfits that are nursing friendly. Do you have any suggestions? Also, do you think suits are still the expectation for business travel or has that changed post-COVID?

Thank you for your time and recommendations.

Much appreciated, KL

In a post-COVID world, the suit rules are relaxing.  A dress and jacket, or a dress and gorgeous cardigan, is a nice option.  I would also recommend a wide leg trouser with a wrap top and blazer or cardigan.

Seraphine has many nursing and maternity items that are professional and stylish.  This dress comes in a wonderful dark green, and you’d never know it was a nursing dress.  For a top to wear under a blazer, this wrap tank from Ingrid & Isabel is nice.  And, of course, there is always a wrap dress.

Hi there – 

I wonder if you’d do a post on Mom of the Bride dresses? My mom is having a hard time finding a dress that isn’t super matronly but that also isn’t tight at the waist. It just seems like there isn’t a lot out there right now. 

Thanks! Whitney

A loose-fitting waist is probably going to yield a more relaxed silhouette, which is going to look a bit matronly.  So let’s see if we can’t find something that threads the needle between tight and merely fitted.  Also, she may want to consider buying a fitted dress one size up and tailoring to fit so it’s not too tight in the wise.

My favorite brand for cocktail and evening wear is Badgley Mischka.  This draped crepe gown in royal blue and this modern, tulip sleeve dress is very cheery.

This Vince Camuto gown is a nice bridge between traditional and current.  I also like their navy, wrap-front gown.  This knot-front Lauren Ralph Lauren dress will flatter the figure in a classic shape.

Other dresses that caught my eye?  This La Femme Jersey Gown and this short Petaluma dress.

Hi Abra,

I need a gift for my Girlfriend (big G).  I just finished my JD and she was really supportive.  I’d like to buy her a necklace she can wear every day.  She isn’t fancy but would appreciate something classic.  My budget is $350, but I’d prefer to pay $250.  

No pearls, no rubies, no fake stones, nothing too long.  I’m not girly and I have no idea where to start.

Rae

What a great gift, and congratulations on your graduation.

Under-$200, Missoma has this gorgeous Malachite pendant and this double-layer chain necklace.  Monica Vinader’s Fiji pendant has a cluster of diamonds for $275.  Vinader also makes this cool necklace set that gives you three necklaces for $315; so you can layer them or wear them separately.  This lapis pendant from Wolf & Badger is nice.  And I know you said no pearls, but what about a black one?

The key to giving a gift like this is to let her know she can return it if she would prefer something else.  Also, never underestimate the power of going to a store and surprising her by letting her pick something she likes.  It makes for a fun shopping day, and you know she got something she wants while preserving the surprise.

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