One of the questions that is often asked about D.C. fashion is: Why is there so much Ann Taylor? The answer is simple enough — the hemlines are long enough, the styles are easy to wear, almost everything is machine washable, and it’s easy to find pieces for professional offices or casual ones. Plus, there’s […]

This was my face upon seeing that nearly every dress (particularly the work dresses) at Ann Taylor this season are linen-blend.  I expect this kind of callow treatment from SHEIN or Forever21 or some other fast fashion realtor, but et tu, Ann?  Et tu?

Welcome to Tuesday Shoes-Day, the new feature where I show you a pair of shoes that’s captured my heart (and probably my credit card).  For our first pair, we have these fabulous, simple Ann Taylor May patent, block heels ($128 + discount). These simple spring/summer shoes are extremely versatile.  Jean, from Extra Petite, wore them […]

Dear Belle, What are your thoughts on tortoiseshell pumps and/or flats? I am not a fan of leopard, and recently I’ve been feeling that I need to put some umph in my shoe game (because black on black on black gets old afterawhile). Do you have any good recommendations? Love the blog! TM I adore tortoise-shell shoes. […]

Readers often write in to ask me about what the different office dress codes mean.  What are the differences between conservative, professional, creative and business casual?  How do I know which category my office falls into?  The easiest way to tell is to look at people’s shoes. A hard and fast guide?  No.  But you […]

Dear Belle, I start my internship in less than three weeks, and I am so excited to come to D.C. for the summer.  I’m searching for a pair of comfortable black heels that I can wear day after day.  Do you have any suggestions? Thank you for the blog! Audrey Finding a pair of comfortable […]

Dear Belle, I just found your site a few days ago and now I am addicted. I went looking through the archives but I couldn’t find the answer to a question that been bugging me for years. How do women walk and stand in heels all day? What are these magic brands that they are […]

Today is my first day out of COVID quarantine.  This variant is brutal.  If you intend to get the new vaccine and haven’t yet, I implore you to get it soon.  And if you’re traveling for the holidays this weekend, mask up.  Let my week spent ill and isolated be a cautionary tale.

The holidays are upon us and the parties have begun.  For many of us, this may be our first time at an office Christmas party or a sizable New Year’s Eve gathering since the pandemic.  So here are three outfits that utilize pieces you may already own to create easy, festive holiday looks.