I’m straying from my political rants and activism for a moment. I have some pressing issues that are much more superficial in nature. Hey, I’m human. This humanity innately makes me a hypocrite too. I grapple with my own shortcomings and hypocrisy. How am I going to save the world while I also covet designer handbags and have a slight shoe addiction? Will my voice even matter when I wax about hungry children but drive a nice car and live in a nice house? Do I walk the talk enough? Am I a phony? Balance is hard. Weighing means and needs and wants is a constant struggle.
But today, I leave the struggle behind to carry on with some admittedly less lofty issues than I ususally write about. I bet many of you are applauding this. I realize it’s tiresome to have a friend with a soapbox as a fifth appendage.
I need some help. I’ve been searching for some items to no avail for what seems like years. You all came through when I was looking for the perfect carry on bag last year. I bet you won’t let me down now.
White button down shirt
I want one that is crisp but not uptight. It should stay tucked in neatly but also work untucked. I don’t want a fitted, snug shirt that puckers when I sit down. I’d like for it to pair well with khaki shorts or a pencil skirt…which brings me to…
Pencil Skirt
If I found the perfect pencil skirt I would buy it in every color. I’m five feet tall and a bit hippy (note that’s with a -y, not an -ie). It’s tough to find something that hits at the right spot above the knee but is made for a woman, not a waif.
Flats
They are ubiquitous in every shoe department. There’s an abundance of cute but a paucity of comfort. I tried the more-expensive-than-my-student-loan-payment Tieks. Not worth the price tag for this flat footed gal.
Laptop Bag
Is there something out there that doesn’t look like a laptop bag? I like compartments. I’d like something lightweight and more stylish than utilitarian.
Swimsuit Cover Up
I’m looking for something between hoochie and mommy. I don’t want to look like I’m on spring break or like I’m a frumpy mom. I’m a style-minded mom on spring break who appreciates modesty with a peek of skin. Surely there’s something out there that’s less Vegas and more Palm Springs. Is it too much to ask for a cover up that is tasteful, comfortable, affordable, and cute? Bonus points for versatility.
White T-Shirt
Men can buy a package of 12 white T-shirts for eight bucks. Add it to the list of things that makes the world unfair for women. I’m looking for a simple white T-shirt that doesn’t lose it’s stretchiness and washes well. V-neck, crewneck, boatneck. Short sleeve, long sleeve (I’ll pass on 3/4 length.). I’ll take one of each. Tell me there’s something out there that works under a blazer or on its own.
I don’t dare ask about bras, bathing suits, and jeans. There’s nothing perfect out there.
Lisa Frame says
I’m pretty sure you didn’t know I’ve read Vogue for over 30 years. Thankfully, I’m not a hoarder and have tossed them all.
For shirts, you’d do well with Carolina Herrera, unfortunately, they cost more than two pairs of those Tieks. http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306418048&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446502411&R=7667701829830&P_name=Carolina+Herrera&N=4294912117+306418048&bmUID=leyW8qO
Flats — check Zappos. They have an entire section for Flat Feet and can’t beat the return policy.
Pencil skirts — buy to fit hips and find a good seamstress.
I’ll get back to you on the others 😀
Jen Schall says
I will be following this!
I can’t help you on most of these, but I did recently find t-shirts I love from Lands End. I don’t like their traditional shirts. They are too boxy. But, they have new “fitted” shirts that I like a lot.
For shoes, I am a big fan of Born flats… I’ve owned 4 or 5 pairs over the years, and I love them. They’re not cheap, but not nearly as expensive as Tieks, which I’ve wondered about, but never tried.
Cyndi says
Pencil skirts — I love my J Crew and Loft skirts. You might have to hem them a bit, or maybe a petite would be the right length? Try the J Crew outlet in Mebane for better deals.
Swim cover ups — Lands End. I have a sleeveless split-neck shift in navy with white polka dots that feels very Jackie O when I pair it with big sunglasses and a hat. Plus it has pockets!
Want to know what you find on the others — needing the same advice.