Ladies, my mind is a shambles. With a four-month old to care for and a full-time job, I feel like I sit down to blog each night and I just draw a blank. I have some ideas for future posts, but I thought maybe we could start with your suggestions.
Here are a few posts members have requested recently:
- The pieces that were the best purchases I’ve made in the past five years.
- An update to the intern guide featuring how to build a wardrobe on a budget
- Must-haves for pregnancy fashion
What else would be helpful right now?
When I started this blog, the readership was fairly homogenous. We were mostly in our 20s and 30s, working in professional offices, mostly single, and now, everything is different. Most of us our older, many are married, some have children, and the dress codes for our offices have all changed thanks to COVID. So I would love to know where everyone’s heads are at.
Leave your thoughts in the comments. xo, Abra
Always love seeing what others buy! Doesn’t have to be clothing-specific, but a recent Target, Amazon, etc. round-up would be fun!
Yes!
I really like your posts about care & maintenance of wardrobe items – how to dry clean at home, take care of wool/cashmere sweaters, shoe protection and upkeep, etc. Thanks!!
Yes!
Yes! This is on my mind right now. And relatedly–what’s the best way to dry sweaters? No matter how I hang them, they get a weird spot where they were hanging from.
Lay flat to dry!
Yeah, sweaters definitely need to be laid flat to dry. If you don’t have a billion square feet of floor space, I love the stacking sweater dryers from the Container Store, which fold up when not in use and allow for air to circulate on the bottom of each sweater.
Yes! and what to do now that the laundress has recalled their products!
Oh yes love this! I have ruined too many sweaters in the wash…
+1 – This is especially front of mind for me as I’m hoping to buy fewer, higher-quality pieces
Can you do an update post on under eye dark circles/ puffiness remedies that withstand the rigors of motherhood?
Chiming in here too! I like this! What under eye patches or skin care products do you recommend or want to try based on what you’ve seen from others?
Third this! I get eyelid puffiness, if you have tips for that would love to hear!
ooh I would love this!
I’d love to see ideas on capsule wardrobes / splurge-worthy basics that will last a long time. As I have gotten older, I’m less interested in more, and more interested in better. Maybe that speaks to the changing nature of your readers as I’m in my mid 40s.
+1 to this!
Yes to this!
+1000 More quality, less quantity
Yes please!
+1
+1
Yes!
+1
100% this. Also, maybe comparing some of those basics. Best white button down, long sleeve tees, etc. I love it when you recommend a dress (or wardrobe piece) and style it a couple of different ways.
YES! AND how to dress in today’s business casual environment.
+1
I would love a hyper-precise guide to what shoes go with what jean styles and legnths – I can never figure out what jeans go with chelsea boots, lug sole boots, etc.
Oh, me too! I cannot for the life of me figure out shoes + pants these days.
Same here!
Oh my gosh, this would be amazing. I feel like I can never figure out the right combination!
yes, this would be super helpful and also for skirts and dresses, with and without socks/hosiery too please!
Echoing what others have said about essentials, but with the addition of *flexible* essentials. I’ve had two babies close together and likely will try for another at some point…but that means over the past five years, I’ve fluctuated within a range from size 2 to size 12. Obviously it’s unlikely to find many clothes that would cover that *entire* range, but some styles are a lot more flexible than others. This is particularly a concern for me with work clothes…my pre-baby office style was sheath dresses and pencil skirts, but those are just really not body-friendly anymore. Are there professional-looking skirts that don’t have to be a perfect fit? Blouses that might be professional and pumping-friendly and accommodate the shifting sizes of pregnancy/postpartum/nursing/not nursing? Etc.
+1
This would be incredibly helpful.
I would love your thoughts on building a classic, mature but not stuffy, fresh but not trendy, casual wardrobe. As you mentioned, like many of your readers, my life has changed a lot and my wardrobe needs have changed with it. I need clothes I can chase a toddler around in, while still feeling put together and confident.
+1 to this. I just emailed you about a post on what suiting trends are current, but this, too. Between the pandemic and having a baby, I feel like trends have shifted and I don’t know what to wear to be current but not dress too young or too matronly.
+1
I’m almost 40 but I don’t want to look 60 and I can’t look 25. What are the go tos for middle age that aren’t grandma or trying too hard?
I agree with this and would like to know what can I still wear from my wardrobe that doesn’t date me? What do I keep? What do I toss and update? I’m in my early 40s, with kids (so my body has change) and I want to be professional, pulled together but also relevant and not matronly.
+1 to Melissa’s comment. I’m also almost 40, with a young kid, and need help figuring out what of my existing wardrobe (which include pieces that are at least 15 years old) I should toss, because they date me. And which I can keep, but need to wear differently than I did when I bought them.
+1 to this and also for actual professional wear for a place like Capitol Hill. As I get older and my body changes, I’m finding a matching skirt and blazer don’t cut it as far as being flattering and fitting well, but nor do I want to go the total “middle-aged lady” look of completely separate pieces. I’m particularly interested in professional skirts.
+1 I am back in a professional office and struggling to come out of the leggings and classic tees for COVID. I need to invest in new pieces but don’t want pieces that will fall apart or be out of style in a few months.
+1
Updating millennial styles
Seconded! I don’t want to buy an entire new wardrobe, but I know my skinny jeans/pants are outdated, my tops aren’t the oversized cut that seems to be in style, and I’m stuck in a rut! At almost 40 I don’t want to look like I’m trying too hard but I need some inspiration to spruce up my outfits.
In the past you described having taylors alter your clothing. I would benefit from a rundown of what is reasonable to ask for and expect for alterations at your local Nordstrom or taylor at a dry cleaner’s. As someone that has never used that service I don’treally know where to start, but I am coming around to the idea that it may be worthwhile.
+1 to this. I’ve been searching for years for a glossary/how to talk to your tailor guide and come up short. What are common requests to make? What are the terms to use?
+1
1. What about a week dedicated to a showing how a capsule wardrobe plays out? Most people I know have days that are sometimes at home, sometimes in office, sometimes on the playground and occasionally a night out.
2. Gift guides are always great – maybe it’s a monthly round up a 5 things you should buy for yourself or others.
3. I like when you highlight other content creators – specifically I like to hear about other bloggers and interesting podcasts.
I like the gift guides idea, especially recommedations for little gifts or care packages to send to friends!
+1 on gift guides!
+1 to a monthly list of purchases/”gift guide” style throughout the year
Hear hear to no. 1! I need help in figuring out how items can go between a business casual office, casual weekend outings, and potentially a night out. I live in a casual city, so everything skews more casual than normal.
This would be great
Pants. I know you haven’t always loved wearing pants, but with a change in the level of formality at work, a changing body, and changing styles, I don’t know what works on different body types or with different tops. A roundup of what different cuts are in style (or forever classic) and how to wear them might be helpful.
Every awards season I think “I hope Abra does the best / not so best dressed post.” Haven’t seen any in years.
Also, I live for the “two-ways” or even better the “three-ways” posts!
+1 for the two- or three-ways posts! Love seeing both a formal and casual option for one piece of clothing.
I also love the 2 and 3 way posts. The biggest impact you’ve had on me (and all the people who have to look at me) is to show me there is a difference between creating an outfit versus just putting on clothes.
I love love love when you post honest reviews of bad products… really sets your blog apart from all the blogs that just shill for whatever thing they get for free. Maybe a “bad decisions” post/series?
+1
So helpful
It tracks along the lines of your suggestions, but some sort of virtual favorite things party ala a post (not limited to clothing); retrospective posts about good and bad purchases and spending choices from your past (not limited to clothing); creative ideas of ways to engage in friendship better; and perspective on job changes, reading the signs of when to leave, etc.
I’ve been following you for years and I really trust you to give honest reviews on things. So I would actually love a, baby stuff we bought that we like/ this baby product is garbage review. I’m having my first kid and I genuinely cannot tell what stuff is worth the cost.
+1 on this!
I always love outfit examples, three ways, and you have/you need. I am at the point where I have accumulated work clothes for 15 years and no longer have much of an eye for what looks “2010s” and out of date, or what current trend or style I should look for. I like the posts you did where you updated bloggers’ old outfit posts, and would be interested in updated versions of some of your old outfit suggestions.
Yes! Love this idea. I;m in the same boat.
+1
+1
+1
How about a post on manicured nails for the office? I’ve heard of the “red nail theory” and the Hailey Bieber nails on social media, but not sure if they would work for the office.
Skincare! You and I deal with similar skin challenges and I’m always interested in how you are treating yours.
Wardrobe pieces that are cozy enough for WFH days (when I wear leggings) but polished enough to wear to the office (I’m about 50/50 these days).
3 ways/outfit examples.
+1 to what to wear to the office. We dug out our old “appropriate/inappropriate” examples of what to wear in a business casual office and “inappropriate” was wildly out of sync with what people are wearing post-covid. Would be interested in your thoughts on that.
A capsule wardrobe for early / late pregnancy! Work in a law office…
+1 for this please!
I don’t go into the office much anymore. Interested in posts about comfortable WFH wear that still feels professional
+1. I definitely find it helpful to dress for work, but in some ways it’s starting to feel silly since I won’t be going back to the office full-tine any time soon.
+1 – yes! And I really appreciated the slideshows you did with the sand piece and how it could be worked in both professional business casual and casual/artsy dress codes. Thanks!
A few ideas, in no particular order:
1- WFH style. Comfort meets fashion. I work 100% remote but still want to look put together over Zoom and at the few in-person meetings I have. I personally came from a law firm background (litigator with a fair amount of time in the courtroom) and now that I’m not working at a firm anymore and I have 2 small kids, I am struggling with the step down in formality and the new post-pandemic workwear norms while still wanting to be comfortable while working and chasing after my littles.
2- related to 1 above, a two ways/three ways post on dressing a specific item up or down for WFH vs. in office/for a meeting.
3- how to adapt your style to changes in your body (postpartum, weight gain or loss, etc).
4- I always appreciated your personal posts. So depending on what you’re willing to share, you could expand on topics like balancing work and motherhood, shifts in mental health since having a baby, etc.
Thanks for asking!
+1 to this!
Yes to WFH! I have a professional job but WFH full time. I walk the dog multiple times a day, run errands, and have zoom meetings with clients. I don’t want to wear gym clothes, but want to be able to walk around the neighborhood comfortably; I don’t want to wear a suit but still want to look reliable.
+1 and would add ideas for a capsule wardrobe for conferences/business trips when you WFH and don’t want to keep an entire wardrobe of dress clothes you won’t use, or with all the changes of the past few years, no longer fit in.
Something about how to adopt more modern, trendier style while not looking like a pre teen would be so appreciated.
How to smartly and age-appropriately incorporate new jean styles and other trends (slackets, flared pants, basic 90s tees, etc.). Don’t want to look like I did retail therapy at Forever 21, but would appreciate ideas on a subtle “refresh.” Thanks!
Help for millennials, elder millennials to incorporate the new silhouettes into our wardrobes. I don’t understand cropped wide pants, shackets, chelsea boots.
+100. I would also be interested in knowing where people shop these days. With the demise of brick-and-mortar and the rise of shops that seem to exist only on Insta, I feel totally adrift about where to look for different categories of items and where everyone else’s go-tos are.
+ 1 to where do we shop these days! I know this shows my age but y’all, I miss THE LIMITED so much.
+1 – transitioning from skinny jeans to trying a new silhouette is daunting. I watched one Instagram “millennial outfit makeover” reel and now the targeted videos are haunting my feed. Help!
Agree wholeheartedly. I love Charly Goss for this type of content, but her content isn’t always professional focused.
– Love the date night posts
– Would like to see posts on trends translating to real life for our age (ballet flats, new jeans sneakers etc)
– Wardrobe swap or updates – how to style the same outfit with a piece to make it fresh and not outdated
– Hair/Make up updates
– More 2 ways
– any tips and tricks you use to know something will fit buying online
– picking the right shoes for the feeling you want to create
I always loved your fashion reviews from major events.
Food! Recipes! Mom life! Your house!
Also, guest contributors are always fun! Round ups from readers and friends on what they are wearing.
More sloane obviously but alas I get the feeling you want to keep her private which I get but hey a girl can dream!
I always like essentials-themed lists with the focus being on building a strong foundation for my wardrobe. Essential shoes, pants/trousers, types of blouses and shirts, accessories, etc. Capsules, mini ones or whole closet ones, are always fun. I don’t know if anyone else would appreciate this or if it’s in keeping with the spirit of dressing professionally/the nature of the blog, but tips on how to sneak in comfortable clothing items into a still-professional looking outfit would be treasured.
I know you’ve mentioned the two/three-ways posts are time-consuming to make, but they are always beautiful. There have been a lot of items I would have rejected at first glance that I’ve come to appreciate because you showed a second way of styling them that works for me.
You’re doing a good job! I’m impressed you’ve been able to keep up with the blog with a newborn in the picture. We’re grateful for whatever you can give.
I would love to see the following things:
1) Seasonal fashion that transitions from one season to another
2) Which organizations to give away old clothing or recycling or sale options for old clothes
3) agree with a post on making the most on a capsule wardrobe
4) vacation wear depending on locations
Thanks so much for your wonderful content, Abra! I so appreciate the thought, time, and honesty that you put into your blog. As other have noted, I enjoy your honest product reviews, personal posts, garment care, and office fashion etiquette posts. I would enjoy hearing your thoughts about the shift from formal dressing in business settings (law firm partner here) to business/power casual. Suggestions for staying comfortable but professional (not stuffy!) would be great. I would also be interested to hear your thoughts on the recent article by Jessica Grose in the NY Times about the small window women have in the workplace to be taken seriously (“The Hour Between Babe and Hag”).
+1 on this.
Plus, I hadn’t read that piece by Jessica Grose yet, and it’s so interesting
Would love for your input on the “commuter shoe” issue. I’m pretty sure you’ve covered that before! I’m back to commuting and I’m now walking just under a mile from the metro to the office. I’m fine with changing when I get to the office, but would love to have a commuter shoe that’s not…completely hideous.
Same re: commuter shoes!
In the new more causal office environment, I prefer to wear the same shoes commuting and at the office. Another post on shoes that work for commuting and wearing in a casual (re: Friday jeans day everyday) would be useful for me.
As a sixty year old petite woman living in Spokane and working in a law office where, since the pandemic, we are now allowed to wear slacks, I would appreciate suggestions for clothing items that are size appropriate and also take into consideration the (lack of) heating in my 100+ year old building.
As work travel is becoming a thing again, I’d love to see a “what to wear at a conference” post with ideas for outfits if you’re a speaker, working the Reg desk, attending a reception, etc. I know you’ve done posts similar to this before, but I’d love it to even be a recurring post a couple of times a year with in-season clothes, like a spring/summer one and a fall/winter one.
+1 to this!
Going to a conference in Orlando in March & looking for ideas for dresses, blazers (what to wear so I can accomodate a mic pack), along with bags & shoes that are appropriate. Maybe even travel outfit/casual outfit to wear to meals & pool, etc. Thanks so much.
I have always enjoyed the links you share to interesting articles, and I have also enjoyed reading your thoughts on different topics.
In terms of fashion, I am completely clueless about how to dress, now that I’m 38, two little kids, about 15 lbs heavier (that I have no motivation to force myself to lose), and have NO TIME. The problem is I live in a tropical/hot climate, so I can’t do long jeans/leggings, jackets, sleeves, and other articles of clothing I see ‘fashionable’ moms on IG wear. I run hot (especially chasing two kids) so I can only do shorts and tanks and short sleeves. It’s really challenging to look cute!
Also make up, skin care, etc.
Love this! I’m Texan, and love layers and easy dressing … until it’s 85 degrees on January 10th.
Building a legal conference wardrobe with minimal purchases. My closet has some old Theory suits (10+ years) but otherwise consists of work from home athleisure pieces and pajamas.
Tops for business causal offices.
Workout wear that is nice but less than lululemon.
Love the idea of pieces that stand the test of time.
I love when people share recipes they like, easy dinners to cook during the week. We all have to eat and man can it be a pita coming up with something every.single.day.
I will always read closet organization tips, and general clothes storage / organization for small spaces.
Advice on secondhand/consignment buying. I think you did a post on this once but as more of us think about shopping sustainably, I’d love more tips on what pieces to buy secondhand, where to shop, what to look for.
A piece on caring for pieces so they last would be helpful in this vein too!
Yes! With specifics about how to shop Poshmark, etc. I get overwhelmed and am clearly not searching in a way that gets the best results.
I love seeing how people navigate change, whether with our wardrobes, careers, or life in general. I think all of us have experienced big changes over the last few years that have required us to adjust our appearances. Also, as someone working remotely in a small Midwestern city, I want to know how I should style myself when I crawl out of my rabbit hole for work trips in LA, Boston and beyond.
I’ve always loved your book recommendations.
I’ve found some of my favorite books in past years from your posts.
Put-together but more casual and comfortable office wear (appropriate for covid times / partial work-from-home) for a legal professional around 40. My pre-2020 closet is full of beautiful clothes that are way too dressy, way too fussy, and way too small.
I am definitely in need of a wardrobe guide. I spent 20 years working in various call center jobs that had no real dress code, including 6.5 years where my entire work wardrobe was company t-shirts and jeans. I’ve been in finance for almost a year and still haven’t sorted out what to wear with a relaxed business casual dress code (jeans and converse are ok, t-shirts and hoodies are not)
Hi! I’d be interested in a series of posts on what silhouettes to wear for both classic and trendy looks by body type.
Thanks!
Yes! love body shape or posts on capsule wardrobes for special sizes – tall sizes, petite, plus. A lot of above knee dresses are too short on my tall body unless they come in tall and I would find it interesting to see how silhouettes and things work better for body types.
I still work in an office that expects professional dress (business casual is only for Fridays) so I value this and one other site as being some of the only places that I can go and get inspiration for how I need to dress day-to-day. Please don’t forget about us!
Have Kyle do a “cool sneakers for women” post. I’d love to have options for a casual office and for travel to big cities (DC, NY, Paris). It seems like men just have more options with sneakers, so feel free to include styles that are sized for men. Love the blog! Thank you!
As someone who is starting a new fully remote role, I would love insights on setting up a workspace (including ergonomics, decor, comfort).
@Lynley – a recent threadjack on Corporette might help until Abra can weigh in with her expertise:
https://corporette.com/v-back-blouse/
Posts on both work and casual pieces that are figure flattering/forgiving. I know my friends and I in our late 30s/early 40s have had unexpected body shape changes of late (Is it normal aging/hormone changes? Post-COVID health issues? Stress at work/home? Who knows!), and would love to get more clothing options that don’t require restrictive shapewear to feel confident in.
The easiest outfits to quickly look “put together”! Re-entering the “wild” post-COVID, many of my friends and I looking for easy ways to get a polished look with minimal effort. Thanks for asking (and for your BRILLIANT blog)!
How to dress a changing body- as we get older, as we get pregnant and then not, etc. I believe you have described yourself as pear shaped before (as am I) and that is very helpful in deciding that what you recommend may work on me.
How to use accessories or basics to really elevate your look. You do this so well, often when you create an outfit.
Comfortable and put together outfits using the same basics.
Jeans. WTF is going on with jeans. I cannot handle the low rise/ wide leg trend of the early 2000s again. I do not want to look like I belong in the SNL Mom Jeans commercial, but I also cannot wear what The Youths are wearing.
I need some new jeans, but I’m completely baffled.
+1
The youths are killing me.
+1 for jeans. My office now allows jeans when we don’t have outside meetings but where does one find professional looking/non distressed denim these days??
Closet organization! Particularly as I get nicer items, shoes, and jewelry but my closet stays the same size… how do I keep things in their best shape?
Younger reader here who found this blog when a hilltern during college, now a law student many years later preparing to go a firm this summer. Love ideas about how to add personality to workwear, and suggestions on investment pieces
I would love your perspective on how to start a work wardrobe again. Where do you start first? How do you figure out what will look good on you after body changes or aging out of what you used to wear? Also, the pandemic has broken me of my love for professional office wear. Any tips on how to go back to dressing like a boss? Thank you for all you do!
Yes! It’s like working from home for so long has drained my ability to dress myself as a professional. I’ve always looked to this blog as inspiration to be a boss at work & would definitely enjoy suggestions for getting out of WFH rut while still managing to stay less formal.
I would love some off duty style options. I want to look put together but comfortable when I’m schlepping to kid activities and household errands. I find I spend most of my wardrobe money on work items but I need help with turning off
How about each day of the week, you introduce an item, accessories, and at the end of the week build an outfit or event, date night, city walk, lunch, etc from all the items? For example, Monday could be silly type v neck blouses with various necklaces, Tuesday, could be three types of pants or skirts that would go with the blouses…one casual, smart, and formal. Wednesday could be the three types of footwear…casual, smart, formal, Thursday could show the toppers, jackets, or cardis with the outfits, and Friday could be the events…how to make the casual outfit work for work and a city walk, how to make the smart outfit work for an office and a lunch, and how to make the formal outwit work for a meeting, or a party. I hope this makes sense!
Meant to say silky, rather than silly,,,autocorrect got there first!
You did this for J Crew a while ago, but I would love updates on brand arcs in terms of style and quality. My go-to retailer has leaned so hard into the ‘cropped and boxy silhouette’ and ‘sheer blouses for work’ that I can’t find anything to buy.
I don’t want to spend a full day at the mall, which retailers are killing it in 2023?
I’m trying to buy more sustainable or eco friendly fabrics… less acrylic, polyester. Partially because I hate all of the pilling and the low quality fabrics and partially because I want to be a better human… posts on these kind of retailers is helpful
What not to wear mid-career. Your advice early on in my career was so helpful. I feel like my choices are more abundant now, but it also makes me nervous.
I’d love to know best options for recent pant suits that won’t break the bank but are still super stylish and on point with fashion trends
Newborn experience and advice!
Help me decipher the amazon (and other) influencers. Who is pay for play and who actually has a perspective?
I’ve always enjoyed reading your recommendations on various products (beauty, home stuff, gifts, etc).
I also would be interested in articles on how to troubleshoot outfits that dont look quite right. For example, I have trouble matching shoes with pants and jeans (both a leg style and hem length issue i think). Sometimes layering comes out frumpy…. how to wear puff sleeves without looking really wide across the top…how to actually “dress down” an lbd without feeling bland, stuff like that.
So many good ideas (shout out to laundering/clothing care and organization)! I would be interested in some articles on how to style items we already have in our closets and create outfits from what we already have (thinking about this from a sustainability perspective(. I’m struggling with workwear now that I am in an office most days. I used to wear suits everyday and things have gotten more casual (separates and dresses); I would appreciate professional outfit ideas that are less formal than suits.
Interesting articles you find!
I’m late to comment, but I just had to say… when I had a 4 month old and was working full time, I could not imagine sitting down at the end of the night to do anything other than sleep. It’s ok to take a break. We’ll still be here when you get back. <3
I need some basics, but as a curvy woman (34dd) some things, like white shirts, are a challenge. Basics for all body types would be great!
With some of us having our annual bonus season or salary increase season I’d benefit from a post on splurge worthy items for yourself.
Also I’d love a rundown on you’re handling your time management, what’s working, what isn’t and if there are any systems you recommend.
My organization’s dress code has gone from business casual to dressy casual (jeans) and my section of the office is VERY WARM. Ideas for tops/blouses that will help dress up jeans that aren’t long-sleeved? Thanks!
Outfits that are sexy yet sophisticated for going out for cocktails or on a date. I’m in my 50s and I don’t want to look like every other suburban mom that’s wearing a blazer, dark, prince, jeans, and heels.
Updating millennial style particularly jeans/pants styles and lengths with what shoes.
I’m also in a (new-to-me) hybrid schedule of work from home and going into the office. I know I could use some help thinking of pieces that can work for both and how to style them. I generally just want to be more comfortable when I do go into the office but still want to look professional and stylish.
Also maybe not your wheelhouse, but hair loss product reviews after having a baby.
Sorry my earlier post had a typo… Looking for outfits for going out for cocktails or a date. I’m in my 50s and I don’t want to look like every other suburban mom who is wearing dark rinse jeans, a blazer, and heels.
I would love if you could do a wrap-up post of the clothing you loved in pregnancy and post-partum. I’m pregnant now with my second, and always am looking for good options in one place on how to manage that weird in-between-maternity-and-real-clothes moment of postpartum. And I feel like so many places discontinued their maternity lines (esp. petite maternity) since my first pregnancy that I’m at a loss for finding good, affordable pieces for this pregnancy.
Echoing sentiments that I think it is amazing and awesome that you’ve kept up with this as much as you have. Also, thank you for asking what the collective might find helpful.
My context is – fully WFH (on the East Coast), tech role, for a Silicon Valley org. I only have to be on camera sometimes (10-25%). I also work weird hours sometimes due to global collab needs. Off camera, I benefit from being pulled together at least somewhat; there’s something about the intention of it, I think. I have to hop back on for a 10pm (local to me)or get up early for a 7am meeting, I’m not concerned about dressing for the occasion or optimizing ‘work mode’ because this is the trade off for access to me outside what I consider my core hours.
Married, no kids, 3 cats (one of which is a kitten), but I’m *also* finishing a degree. So like a few other commenters, that means I have no time.
I’d find a ton of value in knowing what sort of changes you’re exploring or implementing as your available time has changed. What is making your life easier? (i.e., those touch lamps which I now also own four of; the blueAir filters – thank you!) What sort of things you’re choosing to prioritize for yourself whether that’s style/grooming related or not. For example, I think you discussed CookUnity in the past, and that seemed to pique interest of readers. Another thing might be like – how are you styling/coloring your hair these days? How long do you get out of a style and how much time/effort do you exert daily to refresh it? I’m all about ways to get more mileage out of the limited time/energy. A personal example from my own experience is that when I do manicures, they are *always* gel because I can only make time for it once every 2-3 weeks tops.
I also really enjoy the 2/3 ways posts. If I had to pick any single type of your content from the last decade+ that has had the biggest impact in me, “getting it,” when it comes to dressing for work (and in general), it’s those. But I know those are time consuming – probably moreso than writing the types of things I describe above.
Finally, I’m also at a point where I’m more interested in buying quality (and fewer), but I have a lot to learn here including caring for those items. Any wisdom you have on this topic would be helpful.
Thank you again – and take care of yourself!
I’m still working on my coffee this morning so I apologize if you’ve already done these topics before and I’m not remembering.
How about a piece on capsule work wardrobes? Since COVID, I’ve become more minimalist and would love to get rid of half my closet in favor of pieces that could be mixed up on the daily.
Affordable, sustainable, carbon-neutral (ish) brands with good workwear options.
I always appreciate hearing about inclusive brands that offer a good range of sizes.
a few ideas!
1. best fabrics, colors, and styles for moms of young kids. I recently bought a couple white/ivory sweaters to break out of my black and gray rut and what a joke that was! Forever in search of comfortable but cute clothes that can take a beating and wash/dry easily and well.
2. a capsule shoe wardrobe for all seasons, that can go from long walks to the playground to the beach to an occasional date night. Bonus if a pedicure isn’t necessary.
3. long lasting makeup that doesn’t need to be reapplied throughout the day, or how to quickly freshen up makeup that’s started to crease or flake without starting over (product recs to keep in your purse would be great).
4. post partum hair solutions – accessories, products, styles, and cuts that help hide baby bangs and thinning.
Birthday gift guides! I love the holiday ones, but what should we get in-laws, friends, family etc throughout the year? Also love the “saw it on social” and product follow up posts so much!
You’re still killing it Abra and there are so many great ideas here, I’m in the fully remote with 2 toddlers category and still love the WFH posts, adding to wardrobe it would be great to have some ways to stay focused and organized.
I’d also love to see a post on shapewear, I’ve mostly avoided shapewear but I’m finding I need a good shapewear option for dresses etc that I can still move in.
I’d also add a travel post, I was looking back at some of your previous posts and you always have some great ideas.
I’m not sure if others would find this helpful, but I’d love a post about what to do with piercings as you get older. I’m 39, and I have a tiny diamond stud nose piercing that I’ve had since my early 20’s. I love it, but I’m worried I might be aging out of the demographic where this is appropriate. And I’m worried about how it might look as my skin ages. I work for a lefty organization, so not the same work environment as a law office, but I still want to look professional and be taken seriously. Any thoughts on this, or advice would be appreciated!
Hi Theresa,
I am 41 with a hoop in my nose. I love it and will wear it until the day I decide I don’t want to, age be damned. But not because of societal expectations about my age. I say rock it until you no longer want to.
Thank you – I love and really appreciate this comment!
How to balance your wardrobe when you work from home but have to have items for conferences, retreats etc. I don’t want to keep wearing the same sheath dresses and jackets to conferences but feel bad buying fancier stuff when I am only traveling maybe every 2-3 months. Any ways to mix up my professional pieces so they don’t look repetitive? How many do I need to keep it all fresh?
Would love some styling for a night out (think dinner and drinks with friends) for those of us in our mid-late 30s. In DC there is such a drastic difference from how I used to dress for a night out and how I dress today usually with kids in tow. But our friend group is finally into the babysitter stage and we’re venturing out again, and none of us know how to dress for the city nights!
23 things to clear out in 2023 – outdated styles in clothing, accessories, makeup, etc. 23 things that never go out of style. 23 things that one can/should keep but alter to stay current.
I’d appreciate a tag on your existing pregnancy posts so they’re easier to find! I’m newly expecting and would love to look back on what you posted when you were in it.
I would love to hear about your puppy/dog must haves 😀
Recommendations for work-appropriate shirts that don’t have to be tucked in to look professional. Tucked-in shirts make me feel fat and frumpy, I feel they are drawing the eye to my stomach. And/or recommendations for skirts/pants/bottoms that would make even a tucked-in shirt look flattering!
I’m starting a job search and need updated for 2023 interview attire, plus size.
I’m expecting my first kid next month and am definitely interested in your reviews on baby products and more postpartum fashion content. I’d also love posts on any tips you’re accumulating about balancing work and motherhood.
I’m also mostly WFH these days with a lot of professional clothes that only leave my closet for business trips – maybe a post about how to remix blazers and work dresses into a more casual wardrobe?
I am in the office 9–5 everyday, in business formal. I would love more posts about *how* you shop or accessorize. E. G. How do you know if an online retailer will fit you correctly? What accessories are appropriate to wear in court? What are the key words to get high quality workwear when you can’t try things on? What shoes go with what jeans? How do you match colors or patterns?
I also have enjoyed your posts about updating ye olde Pinterest outfits, advice for career pivots, and any recs for modest clothes (sleeves, no mini skirts). Thank you for all that you do!
I would like to see a post about the recent trend of dressing more “chaotically”, think Portia from White Lotus, but for the 35+ crowd 😉 Some starter pieces and how to work this trend when you are used to dressing more “put together” would be great and fun!
Abra, i love your blog! Thank you so much for all the hard work you put into it. I’m 43, and have just finished growing out my grey (aka silver!) hair – I LOVE it, but I feel like I need to change my makeup/wear brighter clothes or something to balance it out? Any tips for silver haired ladies?
I’d love a post on building a wardrobe post-law school graduation. I’m graduating in May and am beginning to think about how I’ll need to update my workwear/basically start from scratch.
Also, or alternatively, a post on graduation day outfits. I’d love something with personality but also want to be formal enough for the occasion.
First off – thank you for all of your work on the blog, etc!
Here goes:
-how to make leggings/comfy pants be up to date, style wise, and presentable for casual wear, like, chasing after kids, running errands, very casual workplaces (I own a retail store and can wear whatever I want, for example)
-how to get out of a style rut and/or how to differentiate between being in a rut and having personal style/a “look”
-I love “The Range,” best of shopping from a specific retailer or brand, and the three ways
I’d love to hear your thoughts on dressing “nice” when people around you are dressed at all sorts of (mostly uber casual) dressiness levels. I used to work in a California-casual tech office with a bunch of men in t-shirts and jeans; now I work remotely but live in Montana, which I’m sure you’re intimately familiar with what passes for acceptable dinner-date attire here, heh. How do I not feel overdressed on days when I want to make an effort? And what kinds of super comfortable, yet polished pieces should I add into my everyday WFH, maybe run some errands around town, wardrobe?
2.5 years later, I still haven’t figured out how to rebuild my wardrobe after baby (throw in a pandemic and I have added a lot of leggings). How do you reinvent your wardrobe when your hips will never be the same?! I would love your take.
Thank you for this!
Two thoughts for posts. Firstly, I’d love a review of rent the runway or another clothing rental service, especially since I’ve been so many sizes post kids.
Secondly, I’d love to hear your thoughts on what to do with fashion I don’t wear anymore. Donate? Poshmark? How do I clear out my closet?
I’d like to also see postpartum/breastfeeding/pumping attire!
I moved from a public sector job during the pandemic and now work in a high visibility and client-facing (Zoom) leadership role at a tech startup in already casual Southern state. I am one of just four women in leadership (and we all have very different clothing preferences, weights, and heights so struggling to find inspiration). I have slowly purged my suits, sheaths, heels, etc. I need some inspiration for how to look put together in a casual, pretty young (I’m about 10 years older at 40 than most of the team), male-dominated Southern tech start-up. I want to be comfortable. I can get away with just about anything but I want to convey the confidence I feel about my/our work in what I wear and look as put together as I did in my prior wardrobe. I’d also be interested in personal styling for work that works in the tech startup/casual environment.
How about a series on what to wear in every state capitol in the west? I work in a few of them (Oregon, Washington, Montana), and I am never sure if lobbyists are wearing the same type of clothing.
Thank you for years of inspiration and recognition that you can be professional and still have personality come through. I would love to see more of the how to wear it in 2 or 3 different ways. It really helps me think of expanding how I approach my closet. Also, I miss the post with designers/retails just a bit off the beaten path- either from the range or highlighting pieces worth investing in. Because of you I found Reiss and The Fold!
Capsule wardrobe!
What about a review of (your/others’??) wardrobe stats? Along with the theme of consolidation/capsule wardrobes, I’d love to know exactly how many shoes you own, how many blazers, etc. How much does the common woman really need to get through?
One of my old favorites I haven’t seen in while is when you would do the travel / fashion posts with your friend Sarah. You featured various destinations and she would talk about the itinerary / must-see stuff, while you discussed what to wear / pack. Those were fun and I would enjoy them even more now that I’ve learned not to take travel for granted! Even day trips would be good… like what to wear for a day of wineries, sailing, museums, etc.
Would love to see a post on how to rebuild a wardrobe for the new hybrid working world. I am struggling to clean out my closet and am holding onto a lot of things that are probably out of style…
Travel wardrobe tips, especially how to repurpose/shop your own closet. I’m planning a trip to Paris in Spring and need some inspo. Or recommendations on good places to look for guidance.
Also, my husband made a remark that black tights look dated. What are your thoughts on this? What are current trends in tights (have they gone the way of pantyhose?)?
I would love to see ideas for a manager’s wardrobe in a newly casual environment.
As a WFH mom that never went back to work and switched to a fully remote role it can be so easy to get lost in the “leggings everyday” vortex. I’d love to see some of your casual work from home capsule picks/outfits (all seasons) that can easily be worn on the run to a store or look decent on a zoom call.
XX
For the past few years I’ve been shifting to only buying everyday clothes that are high-percentage (75% but preferably 100%) natural fabrics (wool, cotton, linen, cashmere, etc.) and that can be challenging to find, even at high-end retailers. I relax that for formalwear/suiting (polyester linings are just what happens now), but it means a lot of my clothes feel basic and not special. I would love ideas for 1) natural fabric retailers but also 2) sprucing up basics to make them more exciting.
I feel like I no longer have any clue what to wear anywhere, but especially work. I recently got a new job, which has us in office and I do not understand business causal, emphasis on the casual! Last time I worked in an office it was def a more “formal” vibe. I want to look professional, and cute, but not too dressed up? I also want to be comfortable?
Home office workout, equipment, programs free and not free
Self presentation in videoconferencing (hair, makeup, clothes, background, if employer blocks technology background features)
Good bras for workplace and conservative professional events
Work travel in covid pandemic
Tights and nylons recommendations
Work shoes for in office during covid pandemic. What are women actually wearing?
Cosmetic procedures: opine/experiences with cosmetic dentistry, facial fillers, Botox, rhinoplasty, facelifts
Breast cancer screening for dense breasts, advocacy for advanced screening methods for dense breasts, surviving treatment, life after active treatment, life with disabilities and long term side effects of treatment
Same as above for ovarian cancer.
Perimenopause
Menopause
Fertility treatments
Positivity
Reader comments thread on sexist (but not sexual) comments made to the reader during career contexts, including interviews, at traditional workplace, conferences, industry events, employer events
Ordering groceries, ordering meals, home chef meals programs (another person prepares drops off for you)
Stress reduction, stress management, stress relief
Small tasteful earrings
Charitable giving
Serving on non-profit boards
Volunteering on political campaigns
Volunteering for political parties
Political appointments
A few ideas:
-I’d love a regular feature on just tops. With so much business over zoom, I’m always looking for zoom-friendly work appropriate tops.
-weekend wear. Yes, many of us are now moms, but we don’t want to wear the stereo-type of leggings and boyfriend shirts. Help us!
-Maybe a periodic feature on life tips: how to manage online returns, laundry tips, meal plans, etc.
-regular features on shoes for different occasions. Shoes for commutes, shoes for business casual, shoes for travel, for conferences, winter weddings, cocktail parties, to wear in the rain, in the snow, etc.
-headshot looks? Maybe you could do a series on headshot friendly looks, including coordinating jewelry and tops.
Love the headshot idea. I need new ones.
So many of my favorite pieces are your recommendations. I trust your judgment completely. Anything you’re really liking / using / getting good value out of – that’s what I appreciate! I also appreciate how real you keep this blog about the challenges we all experience balancing work, motherhood, changing careers, and more. Thank you for all you share.
I know we are in the minority, but here goes. We have an immunocompromised person in our household. So we are still working from home and taking many precautions, including putting our clothes in the washing machine before we come into the house if we have been out. Suggestions for machine washable business-end of business casual clothing would be very helpful. I am wearing black leggings (Zella) with a solid, jewel-tone crew neck T-shirt (Lauren Ralph Lauren) plus necklace and earrings for Zoom. It works well on camera, looks put together and is comfortable enough that I can work a full day. Still, it would be nice to add a jacket (cropped length because I am short and people will only ever see me in it while sitting), preferably collarless or collar instead of lapels (I’m short) for big meetings. Everything I own and see online is dry clean only, which is not an option right now. Thanks.
WFH Office necessities for your desk/recommendations for chairs, filing cabinets, etc. I am struggling with updating my set-up. I’m in a hybrid working environment but WFH the majority of the week.
Organizing/style hacks for a small apartment on a 35 y/o budget (no Ikea!)
Definitely jeans.+ shoes … I love this idea. And what to pair with maxi skirts/dresses when it’s not summer, I see so many cute fall looks and never think they’ll work on me!
A post on what to adapt in your skincare routine in your 20s, 30s, 40s.. what re the main things you should change/focus in on?
I’m always up for a two ways/three ways. Sometimes I need outfit ideas for office or court, work from home, or days off. Those posts have always been my favorites. Capsule wardrobes that can move between situations are great, as well.
I find I’m more about quality than quantity these days. If you can find companies making high quality clothes, I’m in. Tired of walking into a store and seeing nothing but cheap poly blends.
I need help understanding what’s in style! Your post a few months ago about updating 2010 style made me realize that I haven’t been paying as much attention as I used to, especially now that I mostly work from home (and live in athleisure). An annual (or seminannual) post of upcoming trends along with trends to retire would be so helpful! Is color blocking still in? What about colored jeans? And why is everything either cropped or oversized now (or both?!)?
It’s cold and rainy or snowy season. I need “socks” with my shoes, especially with a cropped pant/jean. But, what socks and shoes go together? Match socks to pant color? Looks weird to me sometimes with a “white sneaker” Help
Would you ever do a roundup/advice post for new career folks? I realize most of your readers are probably middle management and beyond, but I know many of us started reading as interns or brand new DC professionals. I’d love to have a recent post I could share with the next generation of interns etc., either of your advice to your former self or a round up of best posts on how to learn to navigate life and wardrobe after college.
What are the shoe and boot styles coming up? Going back to the office and not sure if my block heels are still cool…
Your posts on skin care products are really helpful for me – the sudden, or maybe not-so-sudden, challenges of 40-something skin are constantly on my mind and guidance/support/ideas/commiseration are always great. Posts on work-from-home outfits/clothing that can be easily upgraded for last-minute in-person meetings (I work largely from home but will often be called to a Starbucks or an impromptu lunch for work). And definitely, all the posts on balancing the mom-look with the work-look and in-between.
Your content has always felt relevant, fresh, and interesting – I think I’ve followed your blog the longest of any on my list! Will continue following no matter what shows up. THANK YOU.
I feel lost now that I need full, very formal outfits… It seems most retailers only sell casual suiting fabrics and I’m not sure how to navigate this new world. Full outfit ideas are ALWAYS appreciated. I love it when you create my “uniform”.
The intern comment reminded me, I absolutely loved your hill intern guide when I was an intern way back when (how I started reading CHS). Not sure if there’s anything a little broad ranging and comparable for early or mid career on advice/frequent mistake etc. thanks for keeping the blog going so long!