In the Navy

It’s time to start thinking about what’s hot for summer–you know, while it’s still cold and wintery. This spring, nautical is in, although I recommend you choose carefully, so that you don’t look like one of the Village people.

Just a suggestion.

What To Wear To Work At Home

Hi Susan,

I’m a long-time reader of Friday Playdate; love the Friday Style idea. Here’s my dilemma, which is nearly the complete opposite of the at-home mom conundrum. I’ve worked for 25 years, in a profession where I dress in suits, or skirts and jackets, 5 days a week. Now, I’ve obviously been living right, because I have been given the opportunity to telework 3 days per week. At home! What could be better? Except I have no idea what to wear! My wardrobe for weekends is pretty sad, mostly jeans, shorts for summer, t-shirts. On the days I’m home, I’m likely to visit my son’s school, run errands, and generally see dozens of people I know in my small southern college town, so I’d really like to look at little better than weekend leaf-raking garb. Also, let’s face it, I’m not all that young any more for the jeans thing. I’m 48 (but a *young* 48, I have a 9-year-old, for crying out loud). Other data: I’m a curvy size 6, and have never really embraced chinos…they don’t do much for my small waist/larger hips. I live in the deep south.

Please help me figure out how to get out of my PJs!

Best,
Julie

A Stylish New Year to All

Yes, I know it’s January 4th; I’m a little slow out of the starting gate this year, and it’s not because I had one too many martinis. One of my children was sick over the winter break, and he oh-so-nicely shared his germyness with me. And now I’m having a hard time holding myself upright.

So! Happy New Year!

Like the 1950s All Over (But Way Cooler)

I’m not much of a housewife, but I have to admit to having a soft spot for June Cleaver, vacuuming in her heels and pearls and perfectly ironed shirtdress. Also, I like the idea of the housewife meeting her husband at the door each night with a perfectly mixed martini. Apparently Ward didn’t work as late as my husband does, because by the time he gets home the martinis are all gone.

What? WHAT???

Let’s talk about June’s dress.

What’s In YOUR Closet?

Sometimes, the hardest thing I do all day is get dressed. Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating, but don’t tell me that you haven’t stood in front of the closet in your underwear, weighing the weather (cold? really cold? cold now but warmer later?) and your schedule (work at home, lunch with friends, meet with teacher of kid who is in trouble AGAIN) and your overflowing laundry basket (seriously, who wore all those clothes???) and thought “I just wish I didn’t have to THINK so hard about this!”

Wish granted.