Gulley and I have taken the kids on a little road trip this week, so I’m going to rerun some of my personal favorites. I’ll be back next Monday. Y’all have a good week.

Oh, and I’ll also have a few new posts up on Allaccess if you want to head over there.

**This post was originally published November 29, 2007**

On Tuesday, Caroline and I met Mimi and Bops at Luby’s for lunch. We always meet at Luby’s because Bops is a big fan of the cafeteria in spite of that fact that he isn’t 85 and has all his teeth. Caroline loves Luby’s because she can get Jello which for her is one of the major food groups.

York Peppermint Patties for breakfast and Jello for lunch. We are an organic household.

Except I will tell y’all that the other day, when we were at HEB, I asked her if she wanted to get a donut and she said, “No thank you, I’d rather have a carrot.” So we’re having her DNA tested later in the week.

While we were at Luby’s, Mimi pulls something out of her purse and hands it to me. It’s a page from the Neiman Marcus Christmas Book. And look what it features.

Is it just me or does that look a whole lot like this?

That’s what I thought.

And this isn’t just any jacket being sold at Neimans. It is a Juicy Couture jacket designed exclusively for Neimans and is featured as one of their HOT 100 GIFTS in this year’s book.

It retails for $400.00.

SHUT UP.

The Neiman Marcus Christmas Book is like hallowed retail ground. It actually featured his and her jets one year. And between you and me, P and I weren’t that impressed with them after they were delivered.

So, of course I had to call Nena and let her know. I called her around 1:00 p.m. yesterday because if I called any earlier than that there’s a high probability that Granddaddy would have answered the phone saying “SEVENTY-SIX DEGREES!” and then hung up on me when he realized it wasn’t someone from the local news station calling as part of their daily contest to see who just watched the weather report.

When she picked up the phone we exchanged the normal pleasantries and then I said, “Nena, I got the Neiman’s Christmas Book in the mail today.”

“OOOH HONEY, YOU DID? GOOD FOR YOU!” (Do y’all see why a version of her jacket being in THE BOOK is going to blow her mind? She was just thrilled I got THE BOOK in the mail.)

“Yes, I got it and you won’t believe this but they have a silver sequined jacket that looks almost just like the one you showed me. It’s one of their HOT 100 items and it costs $400.00.”

“FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS? HONEY, LISTEN, I paid $5.00 for mine. I can’t believe it’s in the Neiman’s Book. I JUST CAN’T BELIEVE IT! OOOH you have MADE MY DAY!”

“I know. You could probably sell yours and make some money.

“OH HONEY, LISTEN, I am not going to sell my jacket. I’m going to wear it shopping! So most importantly, what is the model in the picture wearing with her jacket? I just need to know what to wear with it.”

“She has on black jeans.”

“BLACK JEANS? Well HONEY, LISTEN, I don’t know about BLACK JEANS.”

Which I actually think is a good call by Nena. BLACK JEANS are precarious fashion territory.

Neiman’s might want to listen to her because she is obviously ahead of the fashion curve.

Not to mention she saved $395.00 by finding that jacket in the back of her closet.

I’m going to make a confession.

As much as I care about other aspects of fashion, I don’t really care about purses. Now before you start in on me for talking crazy talk, let me explain.

It’s not that I don’t appreciate a good purse because I do.

In fact, the Christmas I was fifteen will go down in history as one of my favorite Christmases ever because it was the year I got my very first Dooney and Burke purse. In hunter green.

Oh 1986. You were so funny with your hunter green and navy accessories.

Since that time I have carried all manner of handbags, ranging from expensive designer bags to inexpensive knock-offs.

Here’s the truth, I can’t really tell the difference.

I had this beautiful Fendi bag when I was in college and it began to fall apart after a fairly short amount of time. So I marched myself and my cool bag into the Fendi store and explained my dilemma only to be told that “the Fendi purse isn’t for everyday use”.

Well sure.

Why would I expect a fine Italian leather handbag to hold up better than the $50.00 Liz Claiborne purse I carried throughout most of junior high?

After my Fendi experience, any real love I had for a specific purse kind of died. Oh sure, I went through a period in the mid-90’s where I had to have the Kate Spade black microfiber purse shaped like a box, but I’ve never been a girl who cares all that much about a new handbag purchase.

Then, last fall, I saw this gorgeous purse by Kate Spade. It was this gorgeous chocolate brown suede with hot pink lining.

When I saw it, I felt like a girl of fifteen again.

However, it was slightly above what I’m willing to pay for a purse that will inevitably become filled with a mixture of animal cracker crumbs, grape juice and hand sanitizer.

And really, I don’t know why I’m telling y’all all this other than to lead into today’s question.

1. Christine asks: “I need fashion help. I need a new purse. I’m very particular about my purse, probably because it’s the one thing I wear every single day. I’m willing to spend about $100. Like a good pair of shoes, I’ll keep a handbag for awhile. But I find myself going back to this year’s version of the same boring black leather bag over and over again. My habit, generally, is to buy a nice bag and carry it thru all seasons as opposed to cheap bags that I rotate out as they fall apart and/or are out of season. Any suggestions?

Well now that you know my purse history, you may decide that I’m not the best person to be doling out advice on purses.

And you’d probably be right.

However, I did find a couple of things that are in your price range that I think are really cute.

I love this braided-leather strap hobo bag and it’s on sale.

I also like the giraffe-print hobo.

Here is a brown woven bag and a fun ethnic print hobo bag.

Honestly, it’s not easy to find purses online. Most of the things I found were either $20.00 or $400.00 with not a lot of in between. Your best bet may be to head to TJ Maxx and look around. I’ve seen some really great purses there for about half the price.

What about y’all? Have you seen any cute bags lately? Do you switch out your purse according to the season or just carry the same one all year round?

Inquiring minds want to know.

Or at least I would like to know.

Y’all have a great Friday!

What? Fashion Friday on a Saturday?

That’s just crazy.

Every now and then I like to shake things up a bit.

Actually, that’s not true at all. I really don’t like to shake things up. I like for them to remain exactly the same. Change makes me nervous.

However, I didn’t get to these questions yesterday and I felt the pressure to answer them in a timely manner.

Total sidenote. P just asked me what I was working on and I explained that I’m finishing up a Fashion Friday to post tomorrow even though it’s Saturday. His eyes got big and he said, “YOU ARE OUT OF CONTROL”.

I’m fairly certain he is mocking me.

Anyway, I fell off the Fashion Friday wagon back in June and failed to answer several reader questions in a timely manner. I mean it doesn’t do anyone any good for me to tell them what they should have worn to a party that happened three weeks ago. It could create lingering regret.

Kind of like the time(s) in college when I wore cowboy boots with shorts.

But at least I can say I did it before Britney.

Of course, that’s small consolation.

So, as part of my resolve for timeliness, I am answering a couple of questions today.

Here it goes.

1. Rena asks: “I tried on a pair of the modern wide-legged trouser jeans and they were $80. They were great. But I was willing to wait and try elsewhere. Old Navy had some on clearance for only $16.99. I figured I need somewhere in between the price/quality of the two I tried that day.

Do I try a few others and see if the length will vary? Of course, that could be better or worse in price. But I do LOVE this pair! I could have them hemmed a bit, but do you think that would perhaps alter the look?”

Okay, you may be asking the wrong person because my gut reaction is to tell you to return the jeans from Gap, go spend the extra $11.00 and get the first pair you tried on and loved.

However, you may now be madly in love with the Gap jeans and totally over the first pair. It happens.

Gap jeans are always long, unless they are specifically made in a varying lengths. My advice is to go get them hemmed to a length that will work better for your wardrobe.

BUT keep these important factors in mind. Are you going to dry them in the dryer or hang them to dry? I personally believe that all jeans should be hung to dry unless it is a dire situation and you need your jeans in an hour. If you’re a dryer kind of person, then wash and dry them BEFORE you take them to a tailor so that you can factor in how much they will shrink.

Also, find a tailor that understands that you want them hemmed using the original hem. Trust me, this is important and if they don’t know what you’re talking about, take your beloved jeans and get out of there. I’m not kidding.

Otherwise you may end up with a hem with bright gold thread. I know of what I speak.

2. Raquel asks: “My husband and I were invited to his boss’s 50th bday party it is at a very swanky place, my husband has been there for work functions but I have not. HELP what should I wear? I am a sahm of 4 kids (1,4,5,10) and I never dress up ever! I am plus-sized and am not too picky other than I don’t wear sleeveless so if it sleeveless, or tank, spaghetti I need to wear something over it. I normally shop online or at Lane Bryant. My favorite color to wear is black.”

Okay, I searched the world wide web for some options for you and found several things that might work depending on your style and preference. Also, for the record, it is close to impossible to find a dress with sleeves these days. Who knew?

I think this chocolate brown dress is really pretty and different from just a basic black dress.

Normally, I’m not a fan of navy but this silk wrap dress in navy is really pretty and I think it would look great accessorized with some silver strappy sandals and silver jewelry.

Not everyone is a fan of the style and may accuse me of posting a muu-muu, but I really like this beaded neck trapeze dress. I think the beaded neckline is so pretty, plus think how comfortable it would be.

Although I realize your husband’s boss’s birthday party may not be the time to focus on comfort.

Last of all, I found this sleeveless knee-length, black sheath dress . It’s basic. It’s black. It’s timeless.

The good news is you could wear it forever and dress it up and down with various accessories. The bad news is it might seem boring. Personally, I am a fan of the basic black dress. I have one in my closet and it has been with me through countless fashion emergencies.

And I also found this chiffon wrap with satin trim or this two-tone wrap in blue. Either one would look great with a basic black dress.

Hope y’all have a great time on your big night o’ fun.

And that’s all I have for today.

Go enjoy your Saturday!

Several years ago, we were at Mimi and Bops’ house for Thanksgiving. This was back when they still lived in Houston and I hadn’t yet used my child to lure them to San Antonio.

I am shameless when it comes to the thought of free baby-sitting.

Anyway, Caroline was a little over a year old and we decided we should all take a family portrait after Thanksgiving lunch since we’d all be together.

And I’m playing fast and loose with the term “portrait” seeing as how there was no professional photographer involved, but rather my aunt and her digital point-and-shoot camera.

At some point in the days leading up to Thanksgiving, we decided (actually, I think I decided, but I’m trying to pass the blame) that we should all wear some sort of white shirt with jeans. I think I had seen this look on someone else’s Christmas card and decided to rip it off.

Here’s the problem. All of us have dark hair and dark eyes. The white shirts made us look like a band of swarthy pirates who had just raided a Gap store.

In short, it was a terrible picture.

Needless to say, it did not make the Christmas card cut.

About two years later, we decided to try it again with the benefit of wisdom and experience of family photos gone wrong.

My talented friend AJ from Hollimon Photography took the picture, which was definitely about a million and a half steps up from my aunt with her Kodak digital camera, plus we planned for everyone to wear various shades of olive green, red, and cream with jeans.

It was an infinitely better picture, except for the fact that I was still wearing braces on my teeth at the time and now every time I look at it all I see is a dark reminder of my orthodontia horror.

But at least we don’t look like pirates.

Anyway, I got an email from a reader named Amy who is about to have a family portrait taken.

Here is Amy’s question:

“I am mom to a 3 month old and a 2 1/2 yr old. My husband and I are crazy enough to go and get our whole family photographed by fancy schmancy people in August. We were told to all wear light blue (we are fair people, blond and blue eyed). My issue is I am not sure where to find a light blue sundress with no patterns or prints on it.I have been searching the internet and not finding anything. I was wondering if you could help me?”

Oh Amy.

Today is your lucky day because either you will benefit from my obsessive compulsiveness or you will be extremely frightened by the fact that I’m going to give you more advice than you really wanted about your upcoming family photo.

After I read your question, I decided to consult my friend Jen of Sugar Photography , who was voted Dallas’ favorite family photographer. Technically, I’ve never actually met Jen in person, but I occasionally spend more than several minutes a day looking at all the incredible photos she takes.

She has a gift.

And that is the understatement of the year.

So, I spent a little bit of time looking for a blue sundress online and then decided to email Jen and ask her professional opinion about what your family should wear. Blue sundresses are hard to find, by the way. Plus, if a light blue sundress isn’t something you’d normally wear, then why wear it in a family photo that will hang in your home for years to come?

And here’s the best part of all, Jen didn’t just give me some advice, she actually gave links to clothing suggestions. That is just PURE GOLD, my friends.

The jackpot, if you will.

Here’s what Jennifer had to say:

“I tell my families to choose a pallet of 3-4 complimentary colors and pull from that when dressing the family. Think textures, layers, and bold bright colors.

Most of all-have fun with it!”

See how great Jen is?

If you want to see how these ideas will make your portrait come alive, head over to the Sugar Photography blog and look around at the various pictures of families. Just be warned that there is a lot of precious baby squishiness all over the place and it will cause your ovaries to tap dance on your uterus.

Remember that Jen’s clothing suggestions are a guideline. I realize it’s not necessarily practical or possible to run out and buy an entire new wardrobe for your family, but think about the color palettes that appeal to you and envision what the picture will look like hanging on your wall.

I hope that helps!

Especially since the torture known as family Christmas card photo season is right around the corner.

Just remember, all white equals hospital staff and/or swarthy pirates.

There were a few other questions for Fashion Friday, but I didn’t get to them today because I just didn’t feel like it.

How’s that for honesty?

Anyway, since both questions are of a time-sensitive nature, I’m going to answer them tomorrow on a very special Saturday edition of Fashion Friday. This has never happened before and, I assure you, will probably never happen again.

You won’t want to miss it.

Well, unless you’re doing something important like going to the grocery store to pick up cat food.

Y’all have a great Friday!

Oh y’all totally came through for me on the sheet information. My people here at Big Mama, Inc. are compiling the data and weighing the merits of percale versus sateen.

And let me just say that part of the reason this country is great is because you can buy great sheets at the same store that sells toilet paper by the case.

God bless America.

On Wednesday morning, Caroline informed me that she missed her school and would like to go see all her friends. I remembered that the school director told me they would take drop-ins during the summer so I called and asked if Caroline could spend Thursday at school. She said they would love it.

So, my social butterfly spent the day at school yesterday catching up with all her friends and discussing the upcoming presidential elections, gas prices, and Barbie Mariposa.

Suddenly I found myself with an entire day of freedom looming before me. I had no idea what to do with a day that didn’t involve the pool, multiple games of Candyland, or cutting out a peanut butter sandwich in the shape of a butterfly.

But I knew enough to know that I should cherish every moment.

Naturally, I went shopping.

And to express my gratitude for all the valuable bed linen information y’all shared, I will now share the wealth of bargain fashion I discovered yesterday.

I didn’t actually buy all these things because I value my marriage and don’t really want to look for a new place to live, however, I did buy some of them because marriage is about compromise.

Plus, hunting season is rapidly approaching which means P will be spending some coin here pretty quick. I don’t really understand how anyone needs that much camo or ammunition, but he doesn’t understand why I need multiple pairs of shoes in the same color.

It’s our differences that make us stronger.

I believe that I will share my finds in a list format because I enjoy a list.

1. About two months ago, I saw this Gap skirt. It was cute, ruffled and came in an array of bright colors. It was $39.99.

I actually called Gulley from the dressing room to tell her it was cute, but not for $40.00 (let’s call it what it is, Gap). At that time I told her I’d buy it if it went on sale for $20.00.

Yesterday, I bought it and paid EIGHT AMERICAN DOLLARS AND FORTY-TWO CENTS. I almost bought another one just to use as a dust cloth.

Don’t let the online prices fool you, Gap is having a huge sale right now with an additional 25% off already low prices. It’s just madness.

2. While I was at Gap, I also saw these white jeans. They were normally $49.99 and are on sale for $24.99 with an additional 25% off. If I was any good at math I could tell you exactly how much that makes them.

CHEAP. That’s what they are. CHEAP.

3. From Gap I headed to Banana Republic. They had this darling short-sleeve trench coat on sale. It was originally $98.00 but is now $42.99 (otherwise known as $43.00).

4. I can’t tell y’all how long I have admired these shielded sandals. They come in bright summer colors and are now just $39.99.

5. I actually bought these modern wide leg jeans a month ago and while I didn’t pay full price, I didn’t get them for $41.99 (seriously? $41.99? What kind of pricing system is that?)

Banana Republic jeans don’t always fit me right, but I love the way these fit. Plus they have a lot of stretch which helps them keep their shape and helps hold my stomach in after I’ve binged on Dreyer’s Peanut Butter Cup ice cream.

6. This Singin’ Robin dress is so darling. I love dresses in the summer, especially ones that you can just throw on flip-flops with and go out to broil in the heat.

7. It’s hard for me not to love something that’s called the Way We Were top.

Memories. They light the corners of my mind. Misty, water-colored memories.

Could it be that it was all so simple then?

8. Okay, this Dragonflies in the Sky Shift isn’t on sale, but I love it so I just had to share it.

Since I didn’t actually try it on, I’m not sure how long it is but I think probably mid-thigh. It would totally work with jeans or maybe leggings.

I should have tried it on, but then I would have been powerless to resist its dragonfly charms.

9. Forever 21 (oh the irony) had these teardrop chandelier earrings.

They come in a bunch of different colors, add a little pop to an outfit and are only $4.80.

10. I also found three really great shirts at Forever 21 and I will lump them all in at #10 because I don’t want to end up with a list of twelve things. It would just bother me.

I loved this Floral peasant top , this paisley v-neck tunic, and this Ashley eyelet tunic.

Even if you don’t consider shopping to be a recreational sport like I do, now is the time to hit the stores. Everyone is clearing out summer merchandise to make room for all the fall things and you can find some incredible deals.

Some might even say they are Cheaper Than Dirt!

Y’all have a great Friday!

You know why I love y’all? Because you make me feel less alone.

And even though I’ve never seen another woman at my neighborhood pool wearing a large hat in an attempt to both protect her face and hide her mustache, I now know that there are others out there with my same issues.

I just wish you lived closer so we could start some kind of support group. We could all sit around with our cream bleach on our upper lip and talk about how beauty was so much easier when we were fourteen and only had to worry about what flavor of Bonne Bell to use.

Or if our mamas noticed how much blue eyeshadow we had on as we headed to the mall on Friday night.

I have a million fashion questions to answer in my inbox and, frankly, it is stressing me out. However, I feel that the skincare issue is an important one, so that’s what I’m addressing today.

Plus, to be perfectly honest, I haven’t really seen any great clothes online lately. It’s kind of all the same stuff over and over again. Time to break out the fall fashions just in time for July.

Anyway, my mustache-eliminating regimen is a two-fold process.

1. I have had great success with Loreal’s Revitalift Micro-dermabrasion products. I use it about 2-3 times a week and after a few weeks, my skin looks noticeably better. This product alone helps significantly in reducing the appearance of the brown spots.

However, I am a believer in maximizing your efforts.

Otherwise known as being obsessive-compulsive.

Especially where age spots are concerned.

2. The other product that saved my life and my dignity during the horrible summer of horrendous mustache face was a bleaching cream with 2% hydroquinone. I can’t seem to find the brand that I used, but the key is to look for a product with 2% hydroquinone and use it faithfully twice a day.

It requires time and patience. Neither of which are really my gift.

Also, some people have a reaction to hydroquinone so use it sparingly at first to make sure that your skin can tolerate it and, for the love of everything, don’t use it on the days you do the micro-dermabrasion. It’s more than one face can handle. I don’t want any hate email about how hydroquinone ruined your life, so I’m handing out a warning right here and now.

Remember, I’m not a dermatologist. I just play one on the blog.

The biggest key to project mustache/age spot elimination success is to keep the sun completely off your face. Stock up on heavy-duty sunscreen and wear a big hat.

Speaking of hats, here are a few cute ones that I’ve found to assist me in both style and sun prevention efforts. I wear this hot pink one on an almost daily basis and on the plus side, there is no way the lifeguards won’t see me if I’m drowning.

I also like this one and this cowboy hat.

Here are a few other really cute, practical options.

Or you could always go with this option, but if you do please don’t tell me about it. Just put on your Vans and keep moving.

On another skincare note, I received an email from a reader named Kristi who asked me what kind of foundation I use. She was looking for “something that can take the heat, look flawless (on flawed skin), and be good for my combination, easily prone to adult acne, face” and asked me for recommendations. She’s been using Bare Minerals and isn’t thrilled with the coverage.

I recently switched from Bare Minerals for the same reason. I love how it feels, but wasn’t always satisfied with the coverage. My current foundation is by Laura Mercier and while I like the coverage, it feels too heavy in the summer heat and humidity.

So, do y’all have any good foundation recommendations? What product provides good coverage yet doesn’t feel too heavy? What about tinted moisturizers? Any luck with those?

I promise I’ll actually post about fashion next Friday, but I felt like the beauty issues had to be addressed. After all, fashion comes and goes, but your face is with you forever.

Much like a four-year-old who senses you are on the phone.

Hope y’all have a great Friday!

Oh, and don’t forget to head over to the LifeWay All-Access blog. There’s some good stuff going on over there and I have a new post up today.

**Edited to add: I fixed the link to the hot pink hat. Sorry about that. I was multi-tasking and put up the wrong link.

I’m in the process of packing for our trip. I am not going to lie, it’s a beating.

I actually read an article in this month’s Vogue about how you can hire a professional packer and, get this, not only does she pack for you but she will look through your closet and put together the perfect outfit for each event you have planned for your trip.

I bet that’s cheap.

But I will go on record to say that if I ever come into a large sum of money, I’m totally hiring a professional packer.

And maybe I’ll even go on some trips.

Anyway, today’s Fashion Friday is about business casual attire and what exactly that means. But first, I will tell y’all a true story.

Back in 1997, when I was twenty-five years old, I got a job as a pharmaceutical sales rep for a small pharma company. I knew throughout the interview process that I needed to wear suits, but once I started the job I thought I could go a little more casual in my attire.

So one day in August I wore some chocolate brown pants with a sleeveless sweater and some nice brown sandals (that doesn’t sound like a great outfit but remember it was 1997). I walked into the first office of the day feeling really cute and ran right into a Merck rep who was wearing a sensible navy suit complete with navy hose and navy heels. She looked at me like I was something she found stuck on her shoe.

Clearly she did not approve of my attire, but considering she had on navy hose I don’t really think she was in a position to throw fashion stones.

But I learned my lesson and went back to my suits until around 2003 when it became more acceptable to lean more towards a business casual look. Although I did go to a training meeting one time where we were informed that if we wore any sort of denim items on any part of our body, we would be sent back to our hotel rooms to change clothes.

Just like when I got sent home in 10th grade for wearing some blue and white striped Esprit shorts even though they came down to my knees.

Except I was 30 years old.

Apparently she was giddy with her wardrobe power.

Anyway, the attire for just about every event these days is business casual, including the She Speaks Conference, so I thought I would give y’all some examples of what constitutes business casual.

If there is a signature item in the world of women’s business casual attire, it would be the capri pant. One look at the Ann Taylor website will more than prove my point. Check out this outfit. And this one. Oh, and this one.

I’m not really a fan of capri pants, although I think they look cute on other people. I think at one time I was an capri zealot and I just wore myself out with all the cropped pants. But they do totally work for a business casual look.

These days I am a huge proponent of the trouser jeans for a business casual alternative. However, don’t confuse trouser jeans with regular jeans.

Trouser jean = business casual
Regular jean = plain old casual

Here is a darling outfit that is a perfect example of wearing trouser jeans as business casual attire. A true trouser jean will fit like a pair of dress pants, plus it should be in a darker denim rinse.

You can find some good trouser jeans here. And here. And also here. I also found these.

When it comes to pairing things with trouser jeans, look for tops that are more fitted. I really like this short-sleeve jacket and this seersucker jacket. You could also try a top like this or like this one.

If you’re one of those people that takes the time to shave your legs then you could always go with the skirt option. I believe I have mentioned that I adore this skirt. Here are a few other options.

You can also check out these links for some outfits that involve the skirt.

And last, but not least, the dress. This summer marks the official return of the dress.

I don’t really know what that means but I do know that for the last few years it has been hard to find a good dress and now I see them everywhere I turn. They are like the Brangelina of the fashion world.

I am a fan of the dress. It’s simple, it’s easy and all it requires are some simple accessories. No worrying about what shirt goes with what skirt and blah, blah, blah. If you share my love of the dress, then you may want to check out these great dresses that totally fit the business casual description.

I was planning on sharing a few footwear options, but it is late and a little four year old just joined me here on the couch. Since we’ll be apart for the next few days, I’m going to end it here.

But remember, no rubber flip-flops and no sombreros.

And most importantly, don’t let anyone wearing navy hose make you feel bad about yourself.

Y’all have a great Friday.

I’ll be checking in from Florida with ocean views.

Well, unless my suitcase exceeds the airline’s weight limit.

Highly probable.

Yesterday afternoon Caroline wanted to go swimming at Mimi and Bop’s house. I dug through the drawer that contains all my swimsuits and decided to wear an old tankini that I’ve had forever. So I pulled the bottoms on and they were huge. Without a second thought I began an internal congratulatory speech to myself on my incredible shrinking bottom.

And then I realized I had on the bottoms that went with my old maternity bathing suit.

Good times.

But for a fleeting moment in time, I was queen of the world. With an impossibly small rear end.

So, based on the questions it would seem that this summer is the season for twentieth high school reunions. I actually have one more year until my high school reunion but for some reason it doesn’t make me feel any younger to say, “Well, I just graduated from high school NINETEEN years ago.”

It seems like just yesterday that I was curling my hair with a teeny-tiny curling iron and dancing to Erasure.

Of course for all y’all know that may actually be how I spent yesterday. While wearing my maternity swimsuit.

Here are the questions.

1. Heather asks: “My 20 year high school reunion is next month and I want to buy something special to wear. I am approx. 5 foot 6 inches, blonde hair and have recently lost alot of weight…going from a 12 to a 6. The Friday night “mixer” is at a trendy nightclub downtown and the dress is casual. The Saturday night dinner is “business casual” at a fancy dinner restaurant.”

You are so lucky to have graduated in 1988 because I bet fifty dollars that your senior t-shirt used the word “great” to rhyme with eight. I was the class of ‘89 so we were stuck with using the word “fine” which works but doesn’t really convey the true awesomeness of being a senior in high school.

Anyway, I think what you wear Friday night depends on your personal style. I would probably wear some really great jeans with a fun top, cool jewelry and heels. I also really like this tunic top. Or you could do something really fun and summery like this.

But you could also do a casual shiftdress or halter dress with some cute sandals if that’s more your style.

As for Saturday night, I’d go with something classic and sophisticated like this. Or if you want something a little more fun you could wear something like this dress. I also adore this dress although it is pricey, however I’d never wear it with those shoes they have on the model. WRONG. ALL WRONG.

I think the important thing is to make sure that you feel cute and comfortable in whatever you choose and that if an Erasure or, even better, some Debbie Gibson or Lisa Lisa and The Cult Jam song comes on you’ll have the mobility you need to dance.

Have fun!

2. Jennifer asks: “My 20 year reunion is this summer. I live in Washington state and August will be anywhere from 65 to 95 degrees. I love structured things (vests, jackets, etc…) Little larger on the top and the “girls” are quite shy. There are three events. 1. Dressy casual event for grads only. 2. Nice dinner for spouses too. 3. Family day at one of the grad’s house with swimming, boating, etc… HA! Will not be caught dead in a bathing suit at the ‘ol 20 year – but would like to wear something fun.

Okay, first check out some of my above suggestions to Heather. Some of them may work for your dressy casual event and the nice dinner. Oh, but I will tell you that I think this dress is a really cute dressy casual look.

I think the Family Day is the tricky part. I am willing to bet that you won’t be the only one not wearing a swimsuit because why would a person want to do that to themselves? Unless you’re Heidi Klum. I would totally wear a bathing suit to every event at my high school reunion if I were Heidi Klum, plus I’d have my husband, Seal, get up and sing “Kiss From a Rose” because hello! COOLEST PERSON AT THE REUNION.

Anyway, I think what you wear for Family Day depends on the level of activity you think you’ll engage in. If you just want to hang out on a lounge chair and look great, then I’d wear something like this cute dress from J. Crew or this maxi dress which could always be worn over a swimsuit. Gap also has a really simple linen dress.

Of course you may want to go a little more casual and comfortable because, unlike me, you may be the type of person who might like to participate in something more strenuous than lying in a chair. In that case you could wear some dark denim bermuda shorts with a cute shirt and some summer sandals.

Or you could go even more casual with these shorts, a good white t-shirt, and flip-flops. This dress would also be a really comfortable, practical option with flip-flops.

I hope that helps!

And on that note I’d like to wish the entire class of 1988 my best wishes for their twentieth reunion. In the immortal words of Whitney Houston, “Oh! Wanna dance with somebody. I wanna feel the heat with somebody. Yeah! Wanna dance with somebody. With somebody who loves me.”

Now those are lyrics that really meant something.

One last thing because I am curious and nosy, who attended their twentieth high school reunion and if so, did you have fun?

And if you’re younger than thirty-seven, I realize you haven’t had the opportunity yet, unless you were some sort of child prodigy. In which case, what’s it like to be a child prodigy?

Y’all have a great Friday!

This is normally where I like to have some fashion story that may or may not relate to anything else I’ll write about, but I am at a loss right now.

I was so disappointed that Jim didn’t propose to Pam on The Office that it’s just hard for me to concentrate.

But on the plus side, I now know that if the devil explodes and evil is gone forever that it’s appropriate to throw a beach party.

And if you don’t watch The Office then you have no idea what I’m talking about. Please do yourself a favor and spend your summer in front of the T.V. catching up on the previous seasons.

Oh sure you could spend it outside at picnics, the beach, and pool parties, but that’s such a cliche’.

Dare to be different and just sit inside with the a/c blasting while you fall in love with Dwight Schrute.

Unless the devil explodes and we’re all invited to a beach party.

Now, on with the questions.

1. Shannon asks: “A lot of the tops and dresses you post are super cute, but i just can’t get the pregnant feeling out of my head when I wear something like that. I’m a size 6, but i still feel like they aren’t that flattering on me. Is there a certain body type these are best for? I am pretty curvy (dd chest and a little hippy). ”

There has been many a time over the last year of fashion that I’ve tried on various tops and questioned whether or not they made me look pregnant. Because if I bought a top, wore it, and had someone ask me if I was pregnant, then I would have to take it out in the backyard and burn it. While weeping and crying.

But the styles do invite that question and while it has always been my personal belief that you shouldn’t ask a woman when her baby is due unless you see her in a backless gown being wheeled into Labor and Delivery, there are always those people that use the question as a conversation opener.

I think there are a few keys to wearing the style. First, if you are busty, do not wear an empire waist line. It will just accentuate that area. Second, if you’re going to wear a loose, flowy top then wear some fairly fitted jeans or pants on the bottom. A long, flowy top will look much more flattering if it’s worn over something that’s more streamlined. Billowy tops with full bottoms will just look dumpy.

And last, if you don’t want to accentuate your hips (and really, who does?) then make sure the tops you choose either hit above the hips or well below the hips. A top that lands right on your hips will just make you look wider. This tunic top is a good example of a style that might work for you since it’s longer and isn’t fitted under the bust.

All that being said, there are a bunch of cute shirts right now that might be a more flattering style for you. Check out this. And this. And this.

2. Melissa asks: “What kind of jeans would you recommend for someone who is 30 and has no bottom to fill up the back of a pair of jeans?”

Oh Melissa. How I wish I were an expert on this topic. Unfortunately, with the exception of the fall I was seven years old, I have never suffered from the issue of not having a bottom to fill up a pair of jeans.

Although I spent a few years in college suffering from the opposite problem. Too much bottom, too little jeans.

However, I am going to make a few suggestions based on my five minutes of research.

Citizens of Humanity jeans are supposed to do wonders for your derriere.

On a completely random note, I saw a t-shirt the other day that had the outline of Wisconsin and said, “Wisconsin. Come Smell Our Dairy Air.”

It made me laugh for a minute and a half.

But that’s off topic.

I also love Joe’s Jeans because they come in a variety of different fits and styles for various figures.

Your best bet is to go to a nice department store like Nordstroms and ask the salespeople to help you. They are experts at finding the right jean for the right body.

And let me just say, you will NEVER EVER regret spending money on a great pair of jeans. A really nice, well-fitting pair of jeans will serve you well for years to come. In fact, I will even be as bold to say that if you are going to splurge on one fashion item, I would make it a pair of jeans. There is nothing else that you will wear more.

Unless of course you never wear jeans.

Anyway, if there’s anyone else out there suffering from the no bottom syndrome, please share if you’ve found a great brand of bottom-enhancing jeans. Or you could always order a pair of these. Sweet mercy, I can’t even imagine.

Oh, and check of Zafu.com. They will suggest the right brand of jeans based on your personal profile.

3. Judi asks: “I just started a new job. Trouser jeans and capris are acceptable attire, as well as dresses or skirts. My friends who work there assure me that most people lean towards the casual. I have always worn pantsuits or skirts with tailored blouses to work. I want to fit in, but I also want to ’stand out’ and appear professional. Plus, I don’t think I would be bringing my ‘A Game’ wearing jeans and flip flops. What should I wear?”

I think you already have most of the pieces you need to create the perfect business casual wardrobe. I would just mix and match the pieces you already have with a new pair of trouser jeans and a few casual shirts like this or this.

Then you can wear some of the tailored blouses with your trouser jeans and the pair the casual shirts with your suits and skirts. This will give you a polished yet casual look.

Here are a few great relaxed work outfits from Ann Taylor.

Good luck with your new job!

And that’s all I’ve got for today.

Y’all have a great Friday!

I’ve spent most of this week suffering at the hands of various allergens in the air. And also whining about my scratchy, sore throat, fatigue, congestion and itchy eyes.

Wish you were here!

So about five minutes ago, when I realized it was time to write Fashion Friday, I came up with another one of my brilliant ideas.

Thank you, Blair Warner.

I don’t have the energy to search all over the internet for fashion finds right now. Sure, I have a lot of questions in my Fashion Friday File and I’ll get to them someday. But today is not that day.

I’m going to let y’all do most of the work today because I am the Tom Sawyer of the blog world.

I want to know the best piece of beauty and/or fashion advice anyone ever gave you. And I don’t want to hear things like “It’s what’s on the inside that matters”. Blah, blah, blah.

We know that. The inside is the most important thing. I’m looking for shallow, superficial beauty tips that have changed your beauty regimen.

I’ll share three pieces of beauty advice that personally changed my life.

1. A tan makes everything look better. It’s part of Einstein’s Theory of Relativity.

You can’t fight science.

Many of y’all have commented or emailed to inquire about what kind of self-tanner I prefer. I use Neutrogena in a medium shade. Sure there are other brands that cost more and might be a little better, but I have always been happy with the Neutrogena. It gives me a good glow and I can buy it at HEB.

I also like Jergens Natural Glow to maintain some good color because I can just put it on like moisturizer and not worry as much about streaking and lines.

2. Never underestimate the importance of plucking your eyebrows.

My mama hounded me for years about tweezing my eyebrows but I completely ignored her. What does she know? My eyebrows look great and aren’t at all bushy.

This is a picture of me my junior year in high school.

I should have listened to my mother.

In the future whenever Caroline doesn’t want to listen to me, I will show her this picture to serve as a cautionary tale about the perils of not listening to your mother’s beauty advice.

And on a side note, even if permed bangs looked darling on Meg Ryan in the last scene of “When Harry Met Sally”, doesn’t mean they work for everyone.

3. A good mascara is worth its weight in gold.

Which wouldn’t actually be very much.

So I guess what I’m trying to say is a good mascara is invaluable.

I recently made the best mascara discovery of my life.

Covergirl LashBlast.

It has a rubber-bristled brush that’s different than other mascaras so it’s like using a fine tooth comb on your eyelashes. It defines and separates each lash in a way that defies logic and convention.

So dear internet, it is your turn. Spill the beans with your best beauty advice.

And have a great Friday!