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.
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 😀
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.
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.