This is usually a spot where I hype some cool pi stuff I've found on my Internet meanderings, but truthfully I'm not really excited by a whole lot at the moment. I'd like to broaden the scope to mathart instead.
Mathart, as a hashtag, doesn't seem to have the same draw as sciart (has there ever been a mathart tweetstorm? it doesn't seem like it), but nonetheless you can find some cool stuff in there. One of the more popular artists (and one of my favorites) is Regolo and their abstract geometrical designs:
Another recurring theme throughout the mathart hashtag is islamicdesign. Not surprising, since so much of Islamic art is explicitly geometry-based. There are lots of different people chiming in on this hashtag; the best example is maybe in the Islamic Design workbook from Eric Broug. Here's a math teacher from Michigan working through one of those designs:
It's exactly this kind of symmetry and abstract geometrical art that I like best in adult coloring books. That's what I first got into, and then it seemed like the trend tilted towards the magic forest style of representational art with lots of little fiddly doodly bits. That's well and good, but I jut want my shapes to color...! I like that Broug's workbook has you first construct the design before you color it. That extra wrinkle makes it a little more engaging, and it's enough to make me want to order a copy for myself.
First of all, a musical interlude: "Glad All Over," by the Dave Clark 5.
Anyway...! What would you like right now to be coated with?
This is a very bizarre question. I'm pretty good with my skin, thanks. Maybe some kind of magical, always-a-comfortable-temperature air barrier? I don't know.
What’s something you recently slathered on something else?
HUMMUS.
JV makes a really tasty hummus and he always uses a lot of spices and garlic. Well, we've found out that garlic is not so good for his digestion and so someone had to finish off a fresh batch of extra garlic-y hummus by herself.
I regret nothing.
What’s something you purchased recently whose purpose is to cover something?
The pants I bought from Kobieta Clothing Company cover my butt! And my naughty bits. And my legs.
What do your current bed linens look like?
Sad. Old. Mismatched. We have a queen-sized bed but two IKEA mattress things. My mattress has a blue bed sheet, JV's has a white one, he usually sleeps under a maroon/red duvet and I use a rainbow afghan Lawyer Mom crocheted for me before I went to college.
Under what circumstances did you last wear some kind of gloves?
Cleaning the bathroom, I think.
I have always been a little bit of a tree hugger. Not because I claim any spiritual connection to nature; it just seems to me that the most pragmatic thing to do is to minimize our impact on the planet so we can get as much use out of it as possible. Little me didn't really understand how anyone could not be concerned about making the resources we have last as long as possible.
Ah, the naivete of childhood.
As an adult, it's complicated. I recycle, converted JV to glass straws, and try to be mindful of my water usage, but one of my favorite hobbies (jewelry making) has a really crappy history when it comes to ethics and the environment. Clothing, too: it's very easy to want to buy clothing that is ethically and sustainably sourced. (Especially after watching a documentary like The True Cost. Important to see, but you'll never look at your closet the same way again.) It's another thing altogether to be able to make those choices when you're fat.
After being disappointed with the brands featured in The True Cost (almost none of them offered things over a size 12 or 14), I went digging on Etsy and binge-hearted a bunch of indie organic designers that catered to fat people. And after that long wind-up, here's the pitch: one of them was The Kobieta Clothing Company.
A few months later, I finally came in the way of some extra cash and decided to treat myself (remember my promise to myself earlier in the year to treat myself, and to invest more money in indie biz owners?). Enter The Kobieta Palazzo Wide Leg Pants. They arrived a couple of weeks ago and I AM IN LOVE.
First of all, Nikki (the seamstress behind it all) takes custom orders, which is great for someone fat who has short, stumpy legs. Someone like me.
We represent the Lollipop Guild... // Image courtesy MGM Studios.
So to put on a pair of pants and they fit! They don't drag on the floor; I don't look like a little kid playing dress up. Worth it.
I was also pleasantly surprised at the weight of the material, as I have certain expectations about jersey knit. These were heavier—not by much, but by enough that it was clear that 1) they were going to be way more durable than my previous palazzo trousers and 2) they would be warm enough for fall and, with leggings or under armor or the like, even winter wear.
Speaking of the material, this is your reminder that Kobieta clothing is made exclusively from sustainable fabric: bamboo, organic cotton, beech tree modal, hemp, and organic linen. All of it. By default.
And finally, these pants are unbelievably comfortable. I have to make an effort not to wear these all day, every day (when I'm not doing yoga or going for runs in my LineageWear leggings, speaking of treat yo' self). I don't think I've ever called a pair of pants cozy before, but there's no other word that really fits. They are cozy, in the way that going into your cave and finding your power animal is cozy.
The next time you need to replace a wardrobe staple, I would recommend saving up a little bit of scratch and splurging on an item from Kobieta. It's worth it, for you and for the planet.
Terrible! I'm not putting my money where my mouth is! I know. But I kind of want to talk it out here, as therapy for myself and maybe for anyone else.
Straight up: I am kind of broke, and (if you're pricing correctly), cool things on Etsy are rarely cheap. What I do buy fairly frequently on Etsy are supplies. Things I use to make things to sell or give to other people, but few things for me. In fact, despite being on Etsy since 2008, the first thing I bought for myself (not a supply, and not a gift for someone) was last year. 2015. It was a gorgeous brass ear cuff for a wedding I was in/attending, and I still wear it when I want to feel ~~fancy.
Not the best photo; here it is on creepy gray ear model:
I 1000% do not regret that purchase. Zero buyer's remorse there. But I'm still so hesitant to shop for myself on Etsy—more than elsewhere. Why?
For someone like me, it's hard to maintain a balance between anti-materialism (consumer culture doesn't solve problems!) and self-care (TREAT YO' SELF). I have never aspired to be anything other than comfortably middle class: a roof over my head, food, clothes, some discretionary cash for hobbies and things. Conspicuous consumption is not my game. Given my current finances, this is a pretty good philosophy to take.
And given that, despite bleating about the recession being over, most people still don't feel entirely financially comfortable, I think it's safe to say that most people (at least most people out here reading this) feel the same way I do. Luxuries and birthday/Christmas/"just because" gifts to ourselves feel inappropriate and like a waste of money. And despite the influx of sketchy, cheap resellers, I feel like my shopping on Etsy is a luxury. When I bought that ear cuff, I searched for a couple days and looked at loads of options. I asked JV for his input. I spent time on it because I wanted it to be something I would love and enjoy forever, because it was enough money for me to think about it seriously.
Yet here I am, trying to convince you all to casually TREAT YO' SELVES when I don't feel comfortable treating my self. Who am I to tell you how to feel about your money?! It feels a little dishonest. After all, I'm not exactly throwing a spending party on Etsy. I bought that ear cuff almost a year ago...!
I think I can do better than that. I think I can find small things, or things on sale, to help another indie biz owner get by. Or I can splurge on my birthday. Frugality is an always thing; it's not ruined by being kind to yourself for once.
What do you say, my fellow cheapskates? (Let's call a spade a spade, eh?) Let's promise to buy one nice handmade thing for ourselves this year.
Like this dress from SizeIsJustANumber is still available. It must be a sign!
Like it or not, we live in a capitalist culture that more or less equates money with caring. Money with value. To keep your sanity, you have to take the practices and rules you apply to your interactions with others (remembering birthdays; wanting to find the PERFECT gift) and apply them to yourself, or the double standard will probably eventually drive you up the wall.
At the same time, let's remember that consumer culture is slowing destroying us. It's destroying our planet and it's destroying how we feel about ourselves.
I don't get a lot of repeat customers. I don't get any, actually. According to all the people who make their money telling indie biz owners how to make money, this isn't good. I should be doing all I can to encourage repeat customers; to keep you coming back for new and different goodies. I should get your email address and send you a newsletter and alerts about sales and coupon codes and new items...
I really don't like that.
I think, generally, people are happy with their jewelry from me. I think people only need one piece of #sciart or #mathart jewelry in their life. That's OK. I'd rather sell one necklace to someone who loves it and wears it when she wants to feel fancy or dress up and gets so much joy out of it than sell a dozen necklaces to someone who never wears any of them and is still miserable. I'm not interested in cultivating and then feeding a consumerist need in anyone who likes my jewelry; I just want to share something cool with you, something cool enough that you'll value my time for creating it.
Even if we don't buy more this year, we can buy better. We can be thoughtful consumers who demand high-quality, sustainable, ethical goods. We can spend less but enjoy more. We can break the taboo on money and gift cards as gifts and halt (some) of our needless ritual stuff-buying. We can see value in charitable donations, or the gift of time together.
Pi Day 2016 is upon us! Sure, some people quibble over the March 14th date—it doesn't work in the European date system, or it truncates, or we should celebrate it on February 27, or July 22—but I believe we should take any and every excuse to celebrate math. So let's have Pi Day on February 27 and March 14; let's observe Pi Approximation Day on July 22; let's have Tau Day on June 28 (my birthday, natch!!).
I'm celebrating Pi Day 2016 by sharing some great #mathart finds over on Twitter. I didn't realize that #MathArt was a thing until this year's #sciart Tweetstorm, much to my chagrin. Whatever, I know now, and I'll be sharing with you! So tune in—I finally broke down and got HootSuite so now it's time for me to TWEET ALL THE THINGS.
Meanwhile, let's take a look at some adorable/awesome/cool pi day things that turned up on Etsy. Not everything happens on Twitter, after all! Sweet And Lovely
This adorable shop features art from Kate Gabrielle and amid the pastels and cute, there is something for everyone. Her shop is in my favorites and it should be in yours, too!
Kate has SO MANY great things. You should really browse her shop, but I will probably share more things here soon if you are somehow too lazy to click the link but not too lazy to read my blog. She has loads of other great pi things, though, like a pi dice game and a set of punny pi career pins.
If modern minimalism is more your thing, WeTheSciencey is your shop. It's also your shop if you're a nerdy scrapbooker, because they have an awesome selection of STEM-themed stamps.
If you look at my Pinterest profile (the one I hardly use because I really need to go and unfollow, like, everyone,and also Pinterest stop suggesting things to me, you're garbage and your taste is garbage), you can see that I have aspirations of fantastic amazing nail art.
Unfortunately, I have the tiniest, itty-bitty nail beds in the world. Maybe you've noticed them when I model bracelets? That makes manicures (and especially nail art) pretty tricky.
But oh man, there is a version of me that needs this even though I have no idea how this works. Do you know how this works? Complicated nail tech eludes me, but the end result looks baller.
I'm a fan of subtlety. You know, those little details you miss the first time, but then when you look closer, you go, "Ah-hah!" The Scholar's Muse absolutely nails that in a lot of her work. (Other times, it's pretty obvious. ;) ) Design-wise, we are birds of a feather. This is another shop that you will probably want to favorite because it is LOADED with academic scarves, from math to chemistry to literature to biology.
There is, as always, a plethora of pi day goodies in the Kokoba Etsy! The ship has sailed on having your pi jewelry in time for Pi Day 2016, but there's always next year! Or, don't forget—we still have Tau Day 2016 and Pi Approximation Day 2016 to go. ;)
Finally, go wish the former Miss Sarah Hagan mazel tov, because she got married this weekend!
So I love Halloween and putting together a costume. I'm not a brilliant seamstress or even particularly clever, but I do get immense satisfaction out of doing the best I can with what I've got. This list is a combination of characters I've already been and ones that I would like to be.
This is one I did back in high school and was probably the most labor-intensive costume I've ever made: I sewed the tunic and the hat (rather poorly) and I made a master shield out of cardboard. I managed to scrounge up a boomerang and some weird red fruit punch flavored drink mix for a health potion from around the house, and a crappy toy sword from the Halloween shop.
I got to buy a cute skirt and sweater that stayed in my wardrobe for years afterwards. I should probably be Velma again at some point.
2. Amethyst
Steven Universe logo courtesy Cartoon Network Studios
I've finally started watching Steven Universe and I am so much in love. So much! Amethyst is my favorite of the gems, and I have enough on hand for an okay Amethyst costume. The only issue left is the hair: dye it? wig? So I'm saving Amethyst for a future costume, when I have a little more expendable cashflow to spend.
1. Athena
Do gods and goddesses count as characters? It's a tough question. I say yes, so that I can show you guys my rad Athena costume from 2010 and 2011.
Originally I thought I would have to pass on this 5 Fandom Friday because wearing my fandom isn't really my thing. But then I realized: I have all kinds of weird shit from Asia. Considering how much Japan is tied in with fandom, I decided this prompt would be a good time to show off the little bits and baubles I have that I would otherwise never talk about!
The reason I have so much weird shit from Asia is because I lived and taught in South Korea for two years and change. I did bring home some great stuff with me, but most of the things I have on hand are from care packages sent by my friend Breda, a fellow NEST (native English speaker/speaking teacher) who has graduated to a grown-up non-teaching job in Seoul.
1. Cute stationery
One of my favorite stores in South Korea was Daiso (okay, actually a Japanese chain). It's basically a dollar store, but without that sense of dread and despair that hangs over most dollar stores in the US. Every store I visited was light, well-lit, clean, organized, and attractive.
There was one on my way home from work at one of my schools and I liked to stop by and pick through the notebooks. I had quite a few by the end of it but a lot of them were small and went missing pretty easily. Breda understands my love of cute-weird Korean notebooks and usually sends one whenever she sends a package. The bottom two here are Korean; the top one (with the peas) is Japanese. It has one of those holographic covers and it's what I use for my jewelry references: digits of different numbers (out to a ridiculous place), plans and designs for more complicated pieces, etc.
The "Hi, hobo." notebook is what I use to keep track of my library "to-reads"; which books are available at which branch and which ones aren't available at all, etc.
The bunnies one is the newest—I just got it last week or so—and I'm not entirely sure what I want to use it for yet.
2. T-shirts
Okay, a quick break from the Japanese/Korean stuff to the only proper fandom-ish things I have: my extensive t-shirt collection. Not pictured is a Batman t-shirt (an actual DC-licensed t-shirt in a Korean department store....pretty surprising, considering how often IP infringement/theft happens over there), a Snakes on a Plane shirt, and an MST3K sweatshirt. Sure, t-shirts are apparel, not an accessory, but I needed to hit five! Plus, t-shirts are the best.
I just pulled out this one here because it's probably my favorite. It's funny on its own, for one, and it's also an item from one of my favorite webcomics, the supremely underrated and underappreciated Cat and Girl.
3. Japanese melon wallet/change purse
We're back to the cute/weird Asian stuff again. Breda takes a lot of trips to Japan, so many that I joke she should get one of those punch cards. The tenth trip is free!
This is from a time when she went to somewhere famous for melons. She included melon-flavored gummy candy in this package as well, but it's not pictured since that package was a while ago and we ate all of it in two days.
4. Hello Kitty nail decals
These are super cute (and officially licensed by Sanrio!) but I have such tiny nail beds (pictured) that I'm afraid they won't come out well. Most of the stickers are really far too wide. Instead, I'm happy to have them hanging on my wall, as a pick-me-up/reminder that I have friends.
5. Cute/fandom-ish socks
Korea (and Japan too, from what I've heard) is basically the sock capital of the world. There are so many fun or bizarre designs available that you can't help buying a pair or two whenever you're out.
At the farmer's market where I grew up in the states, there was one stall called "Sock City" that was nothing but socks. The idea of a socks-only store seemed weird to me back then, but after being in Korea the concept made total sense. There were trucks that would drive around and park somewhere for a day or two just selling a billion different kinds of socks. I was not surprised when I returned to "Sock City" as an adult in need of socks and saw that they were all made in Korea. /csb
This represents maybe two-thirds of the cute socks I've gotten from Breda—there are a couple in the wash or that I couldn't otherwise scrounge up. Note the totally unlicensed Star Wars and RoboCop socks (on the left and right, respectively). The middle ones are just cute designs and not any kind of recurring character. Also, the gray sock immediately next to the Star Wars sock has a sticky-outy tail sewn on, in case the picture doesn't make that clear. The bottom of his shoe says "nice," so put together with his hat it says B NICE. And the pig next to him is drinking beer, and it even says "Beer ♥".
I don't know why Korea and Japan excel at having such cute little foot cozies and the US doesn't. Is it because school uniforms are much more prevalent and socks are the few ways students get to express themselves? Is it because people in the US and other Western countries are more prone to wearing shoes indoors?
Anyway, that wraps up my 5 Fandom Friday! What cute/weird/foreign stuff have you received in a care package?
I could make a whole long song and dance post about being fat and fashion but instead I will only say:
Why doesn't anyone know how to make a good goddamn tunic top?
I can't count how many adorable tunic tops I've seen that inexplicably do not allow enough material above the gathered/sewn bit (you know, the part that should go right around your band) for the boobs they're supposed to be holding. This isn't a case of going a size or two up, either; you do that and now the gathered bit sits where it should, but the V-neck is halfway down to your navel. There is, of course, nothing wrong with that kind of look, but it's definitely not the shirt's intended use (judging by the models). It's like they're all designed for women with incredibly high-set, possibly gravity-defying bosoms. Either that or they're designed so that the horizontal bit goes RIGHT ACROSS your boobs? Which, if that's the case, is terrible design.
Enter: the "Leslie" tunic top from SWAK designs.
Let me back up: SWAK designs is a plus-sized (and only plus-sized, sorry) clothing vendor based in LA, with products made in the US in sizes (generous sizes at that) up to 6X. I've ordered clothes from them before, and been pleased, but this is my first post on them.
I'm not getting any kind of swag for this, either; I have just found shirt nirvana.
Because that's what this is: proof positive that a good tunic top IS possible because the Leslie top is perfect. A generous neckline that doesn't venture into "would you like to see my new bra?" territory but still feels modern and flirty and a gathering that actually sits under your boobs. And! AND! The gathering is elastic so it can, if necessary, stretch over a large rack! Not a problem for me (I am not particularly out of proportion in that department) but I know there are women with bigger boob woes than me.
It is a bit pricey when not on sale ($49.90), but SWAK has loads of sales and discount codes so if you're smart about your shopping it won't break the bank.
Isn't the worst thing about dresses (and, let's be real, most women's trousers, too) the fact that they don't have pockets? I think so. We can all relate to Jennifer Lawrence in this oft-repinned image:
Okay, maybe not about being in Catching Fire. But finding pockets!
Sure, you can always carry a bag, but sometimes a bag just won't do. And until that beautiful day when they start designing dresses with pockets, you can get some gorgeous utility belts from offrandes. I saw this one in my Etsy circles feed and it stopped me dead in my scrolling/clicking tracks:
I clicked through to the shop and was surprised at the variety of designs and styles of "utility hip belts" they had, and how they all managed to look so much nicer than just an awkward leather fanny pack.
Offrandes markets mostly to the music festival crowd, but I look at them and I think "flying convenience" too. It's like a super-secret third carry-on bag! Okay, you couldn't fit much in it, but it's always a good idea to divide up your things between your bags so that if one gets lost or stolen, you're not out so much. Plus, you don't have to stow your belt in the overhead compartment or under the seat: you can have your phone, chapstick, and maybe a pocket sudoku and pens right on hand. And credit card, if you feel compelled to order something out of SkyMall. (Does anyone ever shop from that?)
If utility belts aren't your style, offrandes also offers full-on bags:
Offrandes is a two-person design team from France. In addition to the belts and bags in their Etsy store, they offer jewelry and apparel for men, women, and infants on their website. They've also just found a new home on my favorites list.
Usually on Wednesdays (or every other Wednesday) I do a "What I('m) Read(ing)" post, and I do have one book I'm reading (Tropic of Cancer) and one book I just finished (White Teeth) that I want to talk about, but right now my blogging time is somewhat limited as I play hostess to a visiting friend. So, instead, a quick word about a package I just got!
When I packed for Stockholm, I brought one pair of winter pajama bottoms (warm, fleecy) and two pairs of all-purpose, year-round pajama bottoms (jersey knit bottoms from Target). One of the bottoms dated back to my junior year of college and so after many years of faithful service, had to be sent to the rubbish bin. Not to the donation bin; they were well beyond donating.
In a nutshell: I was in the market for some lounge-around-the-house wear.
Then I remembered a great website I had found via Pinterest: Punjammies.
I had wanted a pair since I first saw the pin (and first realized they had items that would even fit me), but put it off because I didn't need any at the time. I ordered a pair the same day I had to retire my tan capri coulettes. I got a pair like this, only without the border on the bottom:
They are comfy, lightweight and fit wonderfully (a miracle for someone with my hips), though they are regular cotton instead of the stretchy jersey knit I've grown accustomed to. Anyway, the point of this post isn't that these are spectacular loungewear, even though they are. The point is that the proceeds go to the International Princess Project, a group in India that seeks to end human trafficking and provides former sex workers with a new trade (sewing), the chance to use it to earn a fair wage, and the environment needed to heal, mentally and physically, from their experiences.
Another great find I've stumbled on through the Etsy circles feature—and only because I went through and did a major pruning of who I was following (or had "circled" or whatever). Quantity goes down, quality goes up.
I present to you, Dare2bStylish. I love Nancy's designs SO MUCH, and even better—she carries a broad range of sizes. I wish I remember who I was following who liked one of her pieces, because I could hug them for bringing this shop to my attention. No kidding, I was just on the hunt for places to do some online shopping, I'm not much of a clothes horse or fashion fanatic (there's a reason why this isn't a fashion blog), and I don't make a sport out of clothes shopping, but I've come to have a very particular style and Nancy nails it.
I love how everything flows and drapes without looking frumpy and baggy. And—POCKETS! Pockets in the tiered trousers, pockets in the shirt dress....yes. Pockets, please! Nothing in stock goes larger than a 3X (54" waist) but it looks like she might take custom orders if you need anything larger.
It's still a little chilly here in Sweden, so a winter hat like this chullo is perfectly acceptable headgear. I appreciate that Ehmeelu has hats that are extra large, too: people with big heads still get cold! JV has always had a massive head and the only winter hat he's ever had that fits is one that Lawyer Mom crocheted specifically for him. Please, craftsters, do like Ehmeelu and think of all the big-headed people in the world who can't find a good winter hat.
I've never been much of a scrapbooker, but I have been tracking other people's obsession with washi tape and am amazed with the things they do with it and the myriad of patterns and designs available. This is the perfect item for anyone interested in arts and maths. Or maybe I should snatch it up to use in my packaging...!
Normally the asymmetry of the design would bother me, but in this case I rather like it! This is the kind of nerd shirt you could totally dress up for a formal event and no one would have to be the wiser. Bonus points for matching it with some fancy pi bling.
The whole "circles" thing on Etsy wasn't necessarily a bad idea, but it could too easily go to crap. I found myself following people turned out to have incredibly dull taste, so my feed was stuffed with ugly coffee cozies and poorly photographed children's clothing and other things that weren't really of interest to me. I took the time to unfollow maybe two-thirds of the people I had been following, and suddenly my feed was full of really great, interesting items again. A shirt from UpShirtsCreek was one of them:
To Kill a Mockingbird is one of my favorite books of all time. Atticus Finch, what a stand-up guy:
I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It's when you know you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what.
I love the design of this shirt, too. I love how subtle it is; if you didn't catch the reference, it would look like the kind of design a real attorney would put on a t-shirt (if an attorney felt like they needed to advertise via t-shirts). But there's more than just literature references.
Okay, another literature reference, but the execution on this one is too good. In case you forgot the whole quote from Merchant of Venice:"Love is blind, and lovers cannot see / The petty follies that themselves commit."
One of the more understated band fandom shirts I've seen. Even though I'm not a huge fan of Rush (or missing Oxford commas!), I like it.
A couple of these are definitely going to be gifts for people in my life. Maybe even myself, if I'm feeling generous. I followed UpShirtsCreek on Facebook to keep up on new designs, and you should too!
I put every in quotes up there because invariably these lists never apply to me entirely, or in part, or even in insignificant part. Truth be told, I can't imagine they all would apply to any person that actually exists; just more faux-niche (when your market constitutes a full half of the world's population, how is it actually "niche" in any meaningful sense?) writing designed to be seen and talked about. Not going to give them the benefit of a link; the curious among you can Google it. Anyway, I was bored on a Saturday night when I came across this on Pinterest. Whenever someone titles an article as "Bits and Bobbles Every Girl Needs!" or "Whosiewhatsits Every Woman Should Know How to Use!" I am always curious to see how I stack up against the Ur-Woman the author is imagining. Time to tally it up!
101. Despite what it says on the tag, cashmere is best washed by hand. To dry it, use a salad spinner, which releases excess water in seconds.
I do not, and probably will not ever, own anything in cashmere. Or a salad spinner. 0 / 101
100. Use white wine to remove red wine stains.
Not strictly fashion advice, but I suppose when you're stretching to fill a list any trick will do. Not particularly useful for me (I go more for whisky than red wine) but I might need it someday. 1 / 101
99. Wash new jeans twice before taking them to the tailor. Why? Because jeans will always shrink in length when washed.
I wear jeans. I wish I had done this before I got a couple pairs tailored. 2 / 101
98. To stop angora or mohair from shedding, fold the garment and place it into a zip-top bag and freeze it for at least three hours.
Angora and mohair belong to the same category as cashmere: not in my closet. 2 / 101
97. Remove odors from vintage or thrift clothing by spritzing them with a mixture of one part vodka, two parts water.
Or just throw them in your next load of laundry? 2 / 101
96. “Remove white deodorant marks from a garment by gently rubbing the protective foam used on hangers against the fabric.” — Jonathan Simkhai, designer
It's actually embarrassing how many times I've forgotten to put on deodorant until after I've dressed myself (or forgotten to put any on at all), so a few of my tops have that deodorant cruft on them. 3 / 101
95. If you get an oil stain on your favorite handbag, coat the mark with baby powder and let it stand overnight. By morning, the stain should be gone. If a bit still remains, repeat the process until the stain is completely gone.
But what about my favorite skirt? By singling out handbags, do they mean to imply this trick only works with (faux) leather? I'm assuming yes. Perhaps useful for other leather things as well. 4 / 101
94. The best at-home method to keep diamonds sparkling: liquid dishwasher detergent and an old toothbrush.
Diamonds are terrible. 4 / 101
93. The secret to well-fitting everyday clothes is Lycra. The formulas to look for: 95% cotton/5% Lycra spandex for T-shirts, and at least 2% Lycra for jeans to hold their shape.
At this point, I would like to commend the writers for their correct use of "everyday." When you are describing the frequency with which you do something, "every day" is the correct usage: "I wash my pet alpaca every day." When you are using it as an adjective to mean "normal" or "daily," it becomes a compound word: "This tote bag is great for your everyday drug smuggling needs." That being said, it's also somewhat useful. I'll keep it. 5 / 101
92. “Always organize your clothes going light to dark from left to right in your closet. Your eye will follow the color and thus help you stay organized.” — Melanie Charlton Fascitelli, Founder, Clos-ette and Clos-ette Too.
Hahahahahahahahah no. 5 / 101
90. Wondering about the quality of your cashmere? Gently stretch the body of the garment to see if it snaps back. A lower-quality cashmere won’t.
Not wondering about the quality of the cashmere I don't have. 5 / 101
89. “If you don’t have time to try on jeans in the store, try the Neck Method: You can determine your size by placing the waistline of the jeans around the diameter of your neck. If the waistline of the pant comfortably meets at back of your neck, then the jeans will fit.”— Sarah Ahmed, Creative Director, DL1961 Premium Denim
Okay, say what?! I am not immune to the depression and humiliation that comes with those shopping outings tryings-on, so a tip about finding the right fit is welcome. However, I have to wonder: what is the benefit to wrapping the waistband of my jeans (is it only jeans, or all trousers?) around my neck when compared with the tried and true method of holding them up to my waist and seeing if they make it halfway around? I mean, aside from giving the shop clerks something to laugh at. Maybe there is some mystical connection between my neck and my waist that I have yet to unlock, but the halfway-hips method has yet to let me down.
Incidentally, this tip DID bring back fond memories of high school; the uniform skirts we wore in orchestra had such a gap (where you'd expect a zipper or buttons or something to be) that it was possible to velcro the closure around your neck (as opposed to sticking your head through the hole meant for your torso) and wear it like a cape, which I totally did a couple of times. Thanks for the memory, Sarah Ahmed. 5 / 101
88. Cut down your closet by 25% by asking yourself this one question: “If I were shopping right this second, would I buy this?” If the answer’s no, out it goes. — Melanie Charlton Fascitelli, Founder, Clos-ette and Clos-ette Too.
I don't have trouble keeping my wardrobe down to a manageable, wearable size. 5 / 101
87. “Never put your swimwear in the washing machine, and always hand dry. The machine will damage the suit and it will lose its elasticity. The only exception: At the end of the summer or vacation, wash your swimwear in lingerie washing bags on the gentle cycle with a bit of Drift or Woolite. But only after many wears.” —Shoshanna Gruss, Designer
This one falls in the category of "probably very useful, but not applicable to me." I've always just run my bathing suit under the tap and let it hang dry outside or in the shower. It's held up just fine and doesn't have any weird stains or smells. 5 / 101
86. To drop bloat five days before a big event, stay away from dairy and whole grains, which can do a number on the digestive system.
OH GOD NO NOT THE BLOAT. 5 / 101
85. While fake designer bags are a huge don’t, fake diamond studs are a huge do. Faux stones are hard to spot to the untrained eye.
I don't like the look of diamonds and my ears will most likely go to the grave unpierced. 5 / 101
84. Dressy occasions aren't the time to play with trends, so know your silhouette and stick to it to always look your best. Perfect example: Sofia Vergara knows she looks good in mermaid dresses, and always chooses variations of the shape on red carpets.
Seems like this would be common sense. Considering my aversion to fashion trends, dressy occasions, and going to important events in anything other than something I know looks presentable and relatively flattering, not something I really needed to hear. 5 / 101
83. “Never put a garment on immediately after ironing, as this can actually cause new wrinkles to form. Instead, let it sit for five minutes to set the press.” — Althea Harper, Designer and Rowenta Brand Ambassador
Sometimes I iron things! 6 / 101
82. The best way to de-fuzz a sweater: use a pumice stone.
And sometimes I wear sweaters! Just not cashmere ones. 7 / 101
81. Snap clip-on earrings onto flats for an instant evening shoe, or onto shirt collars for DIY embellishments.
I totally found a pair of clip-ons for flats in a box of stuff in my closet once, I was utterly perplexed by them and Lawyer Mom had to explain their purpose to me. Despite my unpierced ears, I don't actually own any clip-on earrings. And if I did, I wouldn't use them on shoes or shirt collars. I suspect it looks more tacky than trendy. 7 / 101
80. If you get wax on a piece of clothing, layer wax paper over the hardened wax and then run an iron over it to loosen it up. Once you pull off the paper, the wax should come right out with it.
Not that I can imagine very many scenarios where I would end up with wax on clothing. Wax on tablecloths, however, is another matter. 8 / 101
79. Pour a dash of vodka into vase water to extend the life of your flowers. 9 / 101
Not really fashion but sometimes I like to have cut flowers around so I'll take it!
78. Spray tights with sticky (read: cheap) hairspray to avoid holes and runs.
Tights are from the great Satan. I'd rather go bare-legged or wear some cotton leggings. 9 / 101
77. To clean dirt off suede, remove the crust from a piece of bread and allow it to become stale. Gently rub dirt and stains with the edge of the stale bread, and they’ll disappear. To de-scuff suede, use an eraser or nail file.
Potentially useful and worth a save. 10 / 101
76. Shopping for a wedding dress or another big-event outfit? Head to the store with makeup on, proper undergarments, and your hair semi-done to get a better sense of how it’ll look.
Shopping for a wedding dress? Hair done? Getting a new outfit for an event? That's rich. 10 / 101
75. Double-stick tape work to shorten a hem in a pinch if you can’t get to the tailor before an event.
Or iron-on hem tape! Good to be reminded that you can fake a solution to something yourself, though. 11 / 101
74. Blot, don’t rub, when you spill something on your clothes. Wiping or rubbing will actually further ingrain the stain into the weave.
I think this is probably the best tip so far! 12 / 101
73. “Panty lines are not okay! Every woman should invest in nude, seamless underwear.” — Giuliana Rancic, HSN designer and E! host
Uh, sure? Since I'm not a celebrity, I don't think ~VPL~ is something I really need to concern myself with. 12 / 101
72. If you don’t feel like trying on a dress but still want to see where the hem will hit you, align the shoulder seam exactly with your shoulder bone (not your collarbone).
Why not? 13 / 101
71. Repurpose old or thrift sweaters and blankets by using them to reupholster a throw pillow, a chair seat or cover a stool.
Sounds simple in theory, but probably pretty annoying to do in practice, at least for sweaters. A BLANKET ON THE COUCH NO WAY~ 13 / 101
70. “Use hairspray to remove a lipstick stain.” – Kaelen Haworth, designer, KAELEN
I don't wear lipstick! 14 / 101
69. Add a 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar to the final rinse cycle while doing laundry to maintain the wash of your favorite pair of dark jeans.
Second-best tip so far! 15 / 101
68. To stretch tight shoes, fill two freezer bags with water and place into each shoe. Let it freeze overnight. As the water freezes, it’ll gently expand your shoes.
Or don't buy shoes unless they fit. 15 / 101
67. Frame vintage scarves for cool original artwork.
I don't have any scarves, vintage or otherwise, that I don't wear. And I have other things I'd rather frame. 15 / 101
66. Due to its high level of surfactants, Dawn dish detergent is especially successful at removing grease and oil stains from clothing.
Is Dawn really that much better than other dish detergents? Or is it just dish detergents in general (minus the hippy-dippy ones that avoid surfactants in favor of true soaps)? Regardless: pretty useful. 16 / 101
65. “A flattering silhouette begins with the right underpinnings. Never underestimate the power of Spanx—they’re a girl’s best friend!” — Lucy Sykes Rellie, Fashion Director, Rent the Runway
I am a fan of foundational undergarments only in cases that prevent the dreaded chub rub. Fashion Bug had a great line that was lightweight and comfortable and I swear by the two pairs I bought for skirts and dresses. The Bug since got acquired by Lane Bryant, who seem to only want to trade in the aforementioned Spanx, which are made from a much more irritating and clinging material. Sadface. 16 / 101
64. Revamp an old coat by swapping out the buttons and having a tailor replace the lining with something eye-catching, like a pattern or a bright color.
How much would this cost compared to just buying a whole new coat? And who gives a shit about the lining of your coat anyway? I keep my coats closed because usually I'm wearing them in cold weather. 16 / 101
63. When getting jeans shortened, always ask your tailor to reattach the original hem. It may cost extra, but it’s worth it.
This one sounds like a good idea, but only in the "it's better to save something than throw it away" sense. Never once I have I changed my mind about a hem length; I deliberate for a while before I take something to a tailor. I imagine the extra fabric at the bottom would start to irritate me, as well. I'll take a pass on this tip, even if it's not inherently bad or totally useless. 16 / 101
62. If blush or bronzer breaks in your handbag, pre-moistened makeup removing wipes will clean up the loose powder flawlessly.
As if I carry blush or bronzer. 16 / 101
61. Break in stiff or too-snug shoes by slipping them on with socks and blasting your feet with a hot hairdryer.
Isn't this the same as #68? 16 / 101
60. Hang a shoe bag on the back of your bathroom door and use it to hold makeup, toiletries, brushes, hair ties, etc.
Okay, not a fashion tip, but there is nothing I love more than good door storage, even if my toiletries consist of a comb, toothpaste, and a toothbrush. 17 / 101
59. A vintage trunk not only makes a stylish coffee table, but it can also house shoes and clothing you rarely wear.
Again, not a fashion tip, but one I can appreciate as a person moving into a very small apartment. But vintage trunk? No thanks, I'll just stick with a storage ottoman from Ikea. 17 / 101
58. “To remove watermarks from leather boots, add a few drops of vinegar to a bowl of cool water and scrub the stains with a soft bristle brush until stains are no longer visible. Let dry overnight.” — Daryl Carr, Marketing Coordinator, Stetson
I don't own leather boots, but my boyfriend does enjoy working with leather and I'm sure I'll acquire some leather goods from him in the future. 18 / 101
57. To stop squeaky shoes, remove the insole and apply Vaseline or WD-40 before replacing it.
A good idea, but I bet removing and replacing the insole is easier said than done. 19 / 101
56. To determine if pearls are real, lightly rub them over your teeth. Fake pearls will be perfectly smooth, and real ones will feel slightly gritty or textured.
This is a legit tip! If you don't want to gross anyone out, use your fingernail instead. 20 / 101
55. When you’re shopping for a jacket, coat, or blazer, pay attention to the fit around the shoulders. While a tailor can tweak pretty much everything about the fit of a jacket—from tapering the waist to shortening it—they can’t change the shoulders. Make sure the seams sit perfectly at the bony tops of your shoulders.
Good to know! 21 / 101
54. Chic up a sporty puffer vest by cinching the waist with a skinny belt.
Could not give a shit about looking "chic" when I'm trying to stay warm. 21 / 101
53. Unless they’re cropped or tapered, pant hems should just graze the tops of your shoes and be from 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch off the floor.
But what if they are cropped or tapered? Nonetheless, good to know. 22 / 101
52. Always dry-clean coats before storing them, and place on cedar hangers inside cloth garment bags. This preserves the fabric and keeps moths away.
The idea of "storing" clothing boggles my mind. I don't have enough space (or clothing) in my life to store things. 22 / 101
51. If you have a small closet, never keep your shoes in clunky shoeboxes. Instead, always line up them on the floor.
Who in the world keeps their shoes in shoeboxes, small closet or no? The only fit place for shoes is by the door. 22 / 101
50. Going to a winter wedding or formal event? Try wearing a sleeveless fur vest as a top, cinching it with a skinny belt or piece of ribbon and pairing it with a floor-length skirt.
How about no. 22 / 101
49. How to care for fur at home: “Pass the fur with a hairbrush and steam it for added bounce, volume and shine.” —Eran Elfassy, Co-Creative Director, Mackage
In addition to cashmere, mohair, and angora, fur (faux or otherwise) will never be something in my wardrobe. 22 / 101
48. “Marquise ring shapes help to create the illusion of longer, more slender fingers, even on small wide hands. Pear or oval stones are also flattering.” — Carol Brodie, Fine Jewelry Designer, HSN’s Rarities: Fine Jewelry with Carol Brodie
I can't say that I pay much attention to how flattering (or not) someone's ring is to their hand, but good to know regardless. 23 / 101
47. Everyday bras should be replaced every three to six months, as that’s when they start to lose elasticity and support.
Good one to know! You should also always fasten them at the outside, moving inwards as the fabric stretches and loses elasticity. Support in bras comes from the band, so if the band is too loose your bra isn't going to fit properly. 24 / 101
46. Ideally, a pencil skirt should hit just at the top of your knee. Any lower and it will start to shorten your leg.
I don't care for pencil skirts. 24 / 101
45. Pants a bit too tight? Let them air dry and stretch the waistband by hand (or with a hairdryer) while they’re still damp.
This one certainly has some practical uses. 25 / 101
44. Still look chic while showing some skin: If you’re wearing a miniskirt or shorts, cover up on top. If your top is skimpy, go for full-coverage bottoms.
WEAR WHATEVER THE FUCK YOU WANT. SHOW AS MUCH SKIN AS YOU WANT. 25 / 101
45. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-fitting, stylish winter coat. You can be wearing pajamas underneath and you’ll still look perfectly put together.
Again, winter? All I care about is staying warm. 25 / 101
44. Windex restores the glossy sheen on patent leather without doing any damage.
Good to know! 26 / 101
43. Fold jeans like a pro: Lay jeans on a flat surface, fold in half from left to right. Grab the stacked jean legs and fold them in half so the hem of the jeans lines up with the waistband. Fold the jeans in half one more time.
I already fold my jeans like this...? 26 / 101
42. The power of a silk pillowcase isn't a myth: Not only do they prevent “sleep crease,” they’re much, much gentler on your skin and hair.
I've never heard of this before. Do I care enough to drop cash on a silk pillowcase? Not right now, but maybe in the future. 27 / 101
41. “The best way to store fashion jewelry, including Sterling Silver, is in Ziploc bags. This helps pieces retain luster and reduces tarnishing and scratches.”—Jordann Weingartner, Founder, I Love Jewelry Auctions
Yes, absolutely. 28 / 101
40. If the garment you’re ironing has delicate buttons or detailing, cover them with the bowl of a metal spoon and press the surrounding fabric.
Kind of clever, I guess? 29 / 101
39. Don’t buy items you know you won’t properly care for. For example, if you know you’re never going to hand-wash that delicate cami or beaded sweater, don’t buy it.
File this under "No Shit, Sherlock." 29 / 101
38. “Pair flirty, feminine dresses with masculine spectator shoes for an effortless and unexpected look.” — Gabriella Perezutti, Designer, Candela
That's nice. 29 / 101
37. To achieve the perfectly effortless cuffed sleeve, keep the top button (which is called the gauntlet) buttoned while you roll.
Good to know! 30 / 101
36. V-neck sweaters and tees give the illusion of a longer torso.
All of the shits I give about elongating my torso: _____. 30 / 101
35. Spritzed a bit too much perfume on yourself this morning? Use unscented, oil-based makeup remover to remove excess perfume.
Don't wear perfume, either! 30 / 101
34. Tend to wear certain leather shoes without socks? Always stuff them with a soft cloth when you’re done wearing them. This absorbs moisture and help the shoes keep their shape.
But I am a grungy hippie who sometimes foregoes socks. 31 / 101
33. “Hoop earrings are a classic style that every woman—regardless of age—should have, but the type depends on your face. If you have a thin face, go for larger round or embellished hoops. If you have a round face an elongated hoop or drop style is best.” —Elena Kiam, Creative Director, Lia Sophia
Still don't have pierced ears, though. 31 / 101
32. Freeze jeans inside a plastic bag for two days to zap odor without running them through the washing machine.
Handy! 32 / 101
31. Looking for an easy trick to make your bare legs look longer? Try pumps the same color of your skin, which gives give the illusion that your legs extend a few extra inches.
Looking for an easy trick to make my bare legs look longer? No. 32 / 101
30. Wrap an empty bottle of your favorite perfume in a handkerchief and tuck it into your underwear drawer for a subtle scent.
Still no perfume. 32 / 101
29. Heat can warp your glasses frames, so always keep them in a hard case and never wear them on your head on a hot day.
Well, considering I have to wear my glasses all the time, it's good to know but I can't do much about it. 33 / 101
28. Spray shirts prone to sweat stains with lemon juice before washing. The natural acid dissolves alkaline sweat residue that could cause yellow discoloration.
Science! 34 / 101
27. “It’s a myth that loose styles flatter a large bust or a plus-size woman. The area just under the bust is a woman’s smallest torso measurement, so emphasizing it with a structured waistband that hits higher than your natural waist will make you look a size smaller. —BG Krishnan, President, eShakti.com
Belts under the boobs is my favorite trick, but I already knew that. 34 / 101
26. Use shaving cream and a washcloth to remove liquid makeup from shirt collars.
Still don't wear makeup. 34 / 101
25. A modern trick to looking like the most effortlessly stylish girl in the room: Pair dressy bottoms (a velvet maxi, a leather or beaded skirt, silk pants) with a worn gray crew-neck sweatshirt or T-shirt.
Also make sure you are the skinniest girl in the room, with professionally done-up hair and makeup. 34 / 101
24. When it doubt, always choose the smaller denim size, since jeans stretch with wear.
True! 35 / 101
23. “Never dry a wet shoe with heat. Let it dry naturally in open air. Heat will dry out leather and the lifespan of the shoe will be cut in half.” —Jordan Adoni, Designer, Modern Vice
More leather tricks are always useful. 36 / 101
22. The easiest way to make your closet look organized: Buy all the same hangers for everything–same color, same shape.
It's a fucking closet. 36 / 101
21. Before bed, pour two or three tablespoons of baking soda into sweaty workout sneakers and tilt the shoe to distribute the soda evenly. This will eat any odor and absorb perspiration.
I douse and douse my sneakers with baking soda but they always seem to be gross and smelly. Maybe I just wasn't using enough? 37 / 101
20. “For guaranteed weight loss, I advise people to follow my A, B, C’s – no Alcohol, Bread or processed Carbs.”—David Kirsch, celebrity trainer and fitness guru.
"Guaranteed" weight loss, okay there buddy. 37 / 101
19. To prevent clothing from wrinkling in a suitcase, fold everything in plastic dry cleaning bags.
If my clothes are coming from a suitcase, I've resigned myself to them being a least a little wrinkly. 37 / 101
18. If you can’t fit two fingers underneath your bra band comfortably, it’s probably too tight.
Bra fitting tips are always good! 38 / 101
17. Pile on good accessories—scarves, sunglasses, hats, statement jewelry—to instantly transform even the most basic outfit.
Another file for the "No Shit, Sherlock" category. 38 / 101
16. Confused about laundry settings? Remember this: The hotter the water, the cleaner the clothing will be. While warm water is fine for most clothes, linens and dirty white clothing are best washed in hot water to remove germs and heavy soil. Cold water is usually used for delicates.
But this is good to know! 39 / 101
15. A structured hat should rest about 1/8 to a 1/2-inch above the ears.
Fitting tips are also good to know! 40 / 101
14. After a shower, use your hairdryer to de-mist bathroom mirrors in seconds.
My hairdryer. Hahaha. 40 / 101
13. A good tip when cleaning out your closet: Ask a friend whose style you admire to come over and help. She/he might offer new insight on how to wear certain items before you toss them.
Cleaning out the closet is a private time. 40 / 101
12. It might sound “budget,” but a hot glue gun works amazingly well to hem skirts, pants and even jeans in a pinch.
It definitely does sound "budget." I can't imagine this would turn out looking so well. I'd rather go with the double-sided tape or the iron-on hem tape. 40 / 101
11. Looking for uses for all the single socks you’ve amassed while doing laundry? When you’ve got aches or pains, fill a sock with dry beans or rice and pop it in the microwave for 30 seconds. Voila, an instant (and free) heating pad.
I don't use heating pads. But I do wear mismatched socks! 40 / 101
10. Wear your new real leather jacket in the rain to break it in. Water will soften up the leather and allow it to stretch and crease at specific points on your body.
More leather! 41 / 101
9. Who has the time to hand wash bras? Machine wash them in cold water in a mesh zipper bag and drape them over a hanger to air dry.
Already do that. 41 / 101
8. Use a lemon wedge to remove excess or streaky self-tanner.
Never self-tanner. Ever. 41 / 101
7. Track lighting is possible even for the tiniest closet: Buy a track kit, screw it into the ceiling, run the wire down the wall and plug it into the nearest outlet. Not only will you see all your clothes better, but you’ll feel like you have a more luxurious closet.
A closet is a place where my clothes live. That's it. It doesn't need to be spacious or luxurious or anything, just where my clothes live. 41 / 101
6. Invest in silk or satin pillowcases to keep your hair from breaking during the night. (They also keep your skin looking smoother than rough cotton cases!)
Isn't this a repeat of #42? 41 / 101
5. If you’re unsure about an impulse or sale purchase, leave it at the store. If you’re still thinking about it when you wake up the next day, buy it.
Good advice for anything, not just clothes. Namely books. And beads. 42 / 101
4. Have a sequin garment you don’t wear anymore? Remove the sequins and sprinkle them into a vase of flowers. Gorgeous!
Have a sequin garment I don't wear anymore? Nope! 42 / 101
3. A good shoemaker can fully rebuild your favorite pair, even if the arch is cracked.
That's kind of what's implied by their job description. 42 / 101
2. To coax a loose thread back into place, gently tug at the stitches to the sides of the pull as well as above and below.
I should probably do this but I just snap the thread and hope for the best. 43 / 101
1. There’s nothing cooler than sticking to a signature style you know looks good on you. Slaves to fashion are never chic!
And of course the tackiest piece of non-advice is saved for the end. 43 / 101
43 out of 101 is more than I was expecting, to be honest. How many from the list could you use?
Also make sure you are the skinniest girl in the room, with professionally done-up hair and makeup. 34 / 101