SBL2.0: Outdoor Shakespeare and an Off-Message Top

Growing up, one of my all time favorite musicals was Kiss Me, Kate. This was partly because my babysitter was in a production of it at his high school so we watched it every Saturday night, but also because Cole Porter is a musical genius and I love almost everything he touches.

I am being Shakespearean.

Then, in high school, 10 Things I Hate About You came out. If you don't know, the connection between Kiss Me, Kate and 10 Things I Hate About You is that they are both based on The Taming of the Shrew. I am also pretty sure I have read the play before, but after watching it, I am less sure about that fact...

Because man, is The Taming of the Shrew disturbing. Apart from the overt misogyny, which is really nothing new in Shakespeare, you basically are watching a father sell his daughter into a terrible marriage, and then watching the man who bought her abuse her until she behaves "properly." And this we call a comedy?

I am sorry to say, this is the first time I remember not liking a Shakespeare in the Park production. It's partly that the play is so disturbing, but I found the decision to make it a trailer trash version to also be difficult, as it felt like there were uncomfortable comments on class being made as well. (I.e., only poor people would treat their wives this way. Which is clearly untrue.) Something about it also felt amateur-ish to me, but that might have been partly because it was only the second day of the show so they were still ironing out the kinks. I don't know, the New York Times loved it but a lot of the comments on the review agreed with my group, so do with that what you will.

The experience was still fun, as Shakespeare in the Park always is, and it certainly generated more conversation and food for thought than usual. When going to Shakespeare in the Park, it is important to cover up, as the theater is right next to a lake and so the mosquitos can get bad. I decided to wear a lightweight tunic, though, because it was hot, and then realized when I looked at the pictures that I basically look pregnant. (I'm not, just to be clear.) Oops. Will I wear it again? Probably, because the flowers are so pretty. Will I get offered a seat on the bus? Not impossible. Sometimes that's how things go.

The whole gang, before the play started and we all became extremely disturbed:

If you want to see Taming of the Shrew, you have one more week, so go get in line now! Otherwise, Troilus and Cressida is coming next month.

What I'm wearing: random tunic via Macy's (similar here), LOFT jeans, Downeast Basics cami, Bare Traps sandals (similar here)

Big News!!

Happy Monday, friends! I hope you all had a great weekend, wet as it was here in New York.

Work started last week for the summer, so I am teaching and happy as a clam. (I'm not sure what makes clams happy, but okay.) Unfortunately, this has meant that I have lost all motivation to work on my prospectus, which now just sits open on my computer staring at me forlornly as I desperately do anything else and try to pretend I don't see it.

Right after I got back from Israel, NY had a crazy heat wave. Not quite the 106 degrees I had there, but here we have humidity, which is basically the devil. These pics were taken the day I got back, before it got bad, so you can see both my sunburn and the fact that I did not sweat through my clothing at all! Good for me. Shaina and I went for a walk, so we snapped some pics in front of this garden on Riverside Drive. As you can see, this is not the most interesting thing I've ever worn, but I liked the contrast of the different patterns and blues with the dress and shoes.

And look at my cute new bag! Purchased after much dithering at DSW. So far it is giving me much joy. Hurrah for a brightly patterned purse.

As the title says, I have big news! Yesterday, I signed up for a half marathon. Eek! It's the Staten Island half, on October 9th. The end is at home plate in the stadium where the Staten Island Yankees play, which sounded fun to me. Now, you might have followed my various sisterly forays into 5ks (which I apparently have not blogged about) and 10ks, but this a whole other beast. The 10k has been a distance I can run most days now, so I decided it was time for a new challenge, but I'm sort of scared because running 13.1 miles is, objectively speaking, totally bonkers.

The plan as of right now, in order to keep me blogging and training, is to write periodically about the process. I imagine those posts will also include some of my thoughts about body image, my various iterations of getting my body healthier, and also what it means to think about modesty when you don't always feel amazing about your body. But don't worry, the cute outfits will keep coming too.

I'm hoping you all will cheer for me along the way. Also, I'm writing about this so you can keep me accountable. Plus, if you live nearby and want to help me train, I'm always looking for running buddies! Also looking for your favorite songs to get you amped up and ready to go. Please leave suggestions in the comments!

Current countdown: 4 months and 3 days to go. (Yes, that is a long time. Yes, I know I don't need to train yet. But I've always been an overachiever, so why should this be different?)

What I'm wearing: Charter Club dress via Macys (similar here), Kosher Casual shell, Toms shoes (similar here), Fossil bag via DSW

Stitch Fix Review September 2015: The Fun's in the Details

Ok, I'm back! I'm sorry for staying away for so long. I'm still wearing the annoying brace, which makes typing a challenge, but thankfully, my thumb hurts a lot less, so I came back to all of you, dear readers!

And... it's Stitch Fix time!

This Stitch Fix actually came almost three weeks ago. I'm just behind. And this was a good one! Alison really listened to my requests, which were as follows: I asked for something I could wear during this crazy holiday season, the jeans from my last fix in blue, and things that would transition well for fall. (These pictures were taken the day before Rosh Hashanah, which is why my hair is weird and straight.)

Let's see what we've got. (And for a reminder of how Stitch Fix works, click here!)

The excitement builds... 

And look! I see color!

 I had a little bit of credit left this time around, so that gave me some pricing flexibility. If I had kept everything, it would have cost $202 before the credit, or $165 after. However, I did not keep everything (but I did keep more than one this time around!)

The Style Card

I included a close-up of Alison's note this time, because it was so nice! I really felt like she listened to me, especially with her recommendations about the dress. Let's take a look:

Fun2Fun Altoona Crew Neck Top in Black-- $48
Dear John Marson Wide Leg Jean in Navy-- $78

 This was a 50/50. I loved the jeans. They're the ones I got in the last fix, but I hadn't liked the black wash, so Alison sent them in blue. I had to keep them. I HATE jeans shopping. Seriously. It is just the worst. So if someone wants to send jeans that fit perfectly to my house, then I will keep them. Also, I used to be all about boot cut, but they all either stopped fitting or got holes in them, so it is nice to have something other than a straight leg again.

The top, I was less enthusiastic about.  As you can see in the pictures, it was sort of too big. Also, it was a little blah. My sister said, It looks like something someone middle aged would wear. And I'm not there quite yet, so I was not sad to say good bye to this one.

Jean status: Kept!
Shirt status: Return

Crescent Freese Scoop Neck Top in Navy-- $48

Shaina said this picture is a little Jesus-y.
I assure you I was just trying to show off the weirdo sleeves.

 I hated this top. I actually liked the pattern okay, but that was pretty much it. I didn't like the fabric. It reminded me of the crinkly skirts I used to wear as a teenager. And I HATED the sleeves. Seriously, who wants sleeves that are going to slide over the place and make your arms look bigger?

Also, there was this tie in the back. My shoulders were way too narrow for the shirt, so everything was flopping all over the place. Not for me. Good bye, weird shirt.

Status: Return

Papermoon Gresham Split Back Knit Top in Navy-- $48

This is the shirt I kept going back and forth on. At first I loved it, especially because it fit so well. Then I felt like maybe I have too much navy. But then it was so fun. Sarit ultimately convinced me to keep it, and I have already worn it, so I guess it was a good pick!

The whole fun of this shirt is in the back. It's a split back, so it needs a tank top underneath. I like the flower print because it's really different from the things I usually wear. Plus, it's SUPER soft. I had trouble figuring out what to wear with it, because I didn't like navy with dark jeans, but when I tried it with my green pencil skirt, and I liked it a lot. So...

Status: Kept!

41Hawthorn Danette Dress-- $74

This was the other thing I was on the fence about. I loved it right out the box. The color is beautiful and the fabric was really high quality. It was also really different from the things I usually wear, which I liked, as I am trying to mix it up a bit. Plus, it had this cool tie on the side, which was a little bit different.

The problem was the length. As Alison predicted, it was too short. It has a little bit of the high-low thing going on, so it's long enough in the back, but not in the front. I wasn't sure about how to layer it, but I put a navy skirt underneath, and it looked enough like a tunic that I thought it could work. I wore it a few days later and got many compliments. So yay!

Status: Kept!

So if you're keeping score, that's 3 kept and 2 sent back. This is the first time in a while that I have kept more than one thing. If it hadn't been Rosh Hashanah, I might have tried to sell the other two shirts to get the discount, but the holiday made it too complicated. But it's ok. I'm really happy with the things I kept, and feel like they were a helpful step in diversifying my wardrobe a bit, which I wanted. So yay!

And now, because of the delay, my next fix is in less than two weeks. Time flies! Want to get in on the fun? Sign up for your own fix here!

Sarah Loves My Dress!

I know, I am the worst blogger. Thanks for sticking around, friends.

The good news for you/ sad news for me is that my summer teaching is over now. This is a HUGE bummer for me. I love July, and it's always a letdown when it's over. But it means that now I'm supposed to be studying full time, so the blog will benefit from my inevitable procrastination. I'm glad that this will have a bright side for someone.

I got this dress off of Zulily. It was a little big, but I decided to wear it anyway, partly because I couldn't return it anyway (the one bad part of Zulily), but also because it was as comfortable as a nightgown. And then I got a million compliments! So go figure. In fact, when I wore it again on Tisha B'Av, my friend Sarah liked it so much that she wanted to take pictures of it for the blog as soon as the fast was over. (I declined, as the combo of fasting and no showers is not so charming.) So Sarah, here are the pictures I promised!

These pictures were taken during an evening walk in the park with Shaina. We were hoping for a beautiful sunset, but it was only okay. I'll try again-- I want it to be great for the bucket list! In the meantime, here are some pictures from that evening. Not awful, just not good enough. I have high standards, after all. So the list marches on.

P.S. If you don't know about Zulily, it's worth checking out. It's a little hit or miss, but sometimes they have great stuff really cheap. (Just know that there are usually no returns and sometimes shipping takes a while, but each item will warn you about that in advance.) You know how I love me a good bargain and how one of my hobbies is owning too many dresses, so Zulily has helped me with both of those things without blowing the budget. You can sign up here.

What I'm wearing: Reborn dress via Zulily (similar here), Kosher Casual shell, Claire's headband, Toms shoes

Q&A: Normal and Modest in the Summer

Remember when I was all excited to post picture of work appropriate clothing on the blog because I'm working full time now? And remember how I haven't done it at all? It's not because I don't love you. It's just because, it's sort of awkward to say, "Hey, student, can you take a picture of my outfit?" So I haven't figured out a system yet. Maybe soon. I'm working on it.

In the meantime, Q&A is back! Today's question is anonymous, but I think relevant to all of us modest dressers out there. Here we go:

Question:
In the winter, I find it's fairly easy to dress modestly and still blend in-- long sleeves, lots of layers, boots, and tights are the norm. However, in the summer, I sometimes find it's hard to both maintain my standards of modesty, look normal, and not melt to death. Any tips? -- Anonymous

Answer:
Ah yes. There is nothing that makes someone feel quite as conspicuous as wearing sleeves past the elbows when it's 90 degrees and humid outside. I have certainly been there, and it is not always easy. While there's no fail-safe way to deal with this challenge, here are some tips.

Luckily, fashion has been on the modest girls' side of late. The maxi skirt trend has been here for the last couple of years, and it looks like it's here to stay, at least for now. The good thing about maxi skirts is that they are super comfortable. The bad news is that most of them are too casual for any work environment that isn't super informal. However, they're great for the weekend or a fun evening out. You can find good options here, here and here.

It's true, most people where longer skirts with sleeveless tops in the summer. However, popover shirts are having a fashion moment, and they usually have 3/4 sleeves, which works out great for people who like longer sleeves! Additionally, they tend to be super lightweight, which makes them great for summer. Sometimes a looser shirt with more coverage is cooler than a tighter short sleeved or sleeveless shirt, so don't be afraid of the sleeves. Look for things in cotton or other light fabrics that breathe easily, like this, this or this.

Remember that a lot of people, even those who generally wear pants or shorts, choose to wear skirts in the summer. They're often lighter and airier than pants, even when they have a little more length. Again, look for lightweight fabrics. The GAP is currently selling a number of midi skirts right now in a light cotton which would likely be airy even on the hottest of days. They look super cute with flats and even a fedora, for those of you who are so inclined, to give you a nice vintage-y look.

Nobody wants to wear sweaters in the summer, so sleeveless dresses can seem unappealing if you don't want to wear a shirt underneath (which is certainly a distinctive look.) Try out wrap-style dresses, which might require a cami, but still blend nicely and can be good for hotter weather. Also check out places like Nordstrom, where you can search by sleeve length; Boden, where they have many options with sleeves; or Eshakti, where you can customize to add sleeves.

In terms of skirt length. You know that I am the world's biggest proponent of flats. Not only do I never wear heels during the week, I usually don't even wear them on Shabbat. However, there is something to be said for a good pair of wedges in order to balance out a longer skirt and make it look less conspicuous. Even a whiny heel wearer like me can find a pair of wedges that are totally bearable. Just make sure you choose a good brand. I suggest something like Aerosoles, Born, or Dr. Scholls.

If you cover your hair, I don't have a huge amount to say, as a non-hair coverer. However, fedoras are everywhere these days (thank you hipsters), and headscarves/ thick headbands also seem to be having a moment. So at least outside, you will find many like you.

Finally, remember that people are not looking at you that closely. So in terms of looking normal, people are not paying nearly as much attention to what you're wearing as you think. This is not to say that people won't notice your total fabulousness, but if you feel like you look really different from everyone else, it is unlikely that they really notice. Just wear what's comfortable for you and you'll look great!

How do you dress for modesty in the heat?

Stitch Fix Review May 2015: We're Back in the Game!

Ok, I know I promised all of you a post on my glasses this week. But then my Stitch Fix came four days early! So we have important work to do. (What is Stitch Fix, you ask? Click here to learn all about it.)

 As you might remember, I was not super happy with my last fix. I was happy to order another one, if only because I had a lot of credit to use (thanks to everyone who signed up with my link!) However, I was slightly disgruntled because I felt like my stylist hadn't listened to my feedback.

Well, Stitch Fix, you have redeemed yourself! I had a new stylist, Alison (hi Alison!) and I felt like she did a great job. She sent me a few things that I had pinned, and also some things that were a little out of the box for me, but that I could totally see myself wearing.

If I keep everything, it's $187.50 including the styling fee.
(I still have a lot of credit, so that would mean I actually pay $14.50. Cool!)

My style card!

This time I'd really like some advice. I like 4 out of 5 things a lot, but the fifth thing doesn't fit me right. However, it costs the same to keep 4 as to keep 5. What should I do? Are there other things I should send back? Would you like to buy the fifth item from me (at a discount)? Please leave thoughts in the comments!

And without further ado, here we go:

Daniel Rainn Owen Tie Neck Blouse in Black-- $48.00

For some reason, my eyes were closed in almost every picture Sarit took. Don't know what's wrong with me, other than that I really need to get more sleep. So we also ended up with some mirror selfies. You get the idea.

This top is beautiful. It is super lightweight and, as you can see, pretty sheer. It came with a built in tank top, but I think I'll probably cut it out if I keep it, partly because it's too low cut and partly because it's really hard to get on and off.

The pluses: It'll be great for summer, it has great details, and it's versatile enough to be worn with jeans, for work, or on Shabbat.
The minuses: The complicated tank top underneath (easily dealt with), and the fact that this shirt is very similar to the one I got in my March fix.

The verdict: Undecided. Thoughts?

THML Cintas Embroidered Tie Neck Top in white-- $58.00

This was my least favorite thing in the fix. The concept is pretty, but it just didn't work on me.

Yup, eyes closed again. But otherwise a good pic!

 First, I don't wear much white, nor do I wear orange, which is basically the color of the detail. The real problem, though, is the shape. As you can see below, it's sort of shapeless, but then tight around the hips. It's also a little short for my taste. I'm not super tall, but I carry most of my height in my torso and I like my shirts long.

However, the detailing is beautiful. I'm sure it would be a great top for someone who is built differently than me.

The verdict: Returning, unless I keep the other four. Then, hopefully, finding it a new home.

Fun2Fun Marlena Abstract Print Tab Sleeve Blouse in Green-- $48.00

Noticing a pattern here? Seriously, what is my problem?!

This top is very pretty. I think it fits me really nicely, and it's also super versatile. I like the green and pink color, and one of my friends always tells me I should wear more patterns on top, instead of on bottom, so this would fit that.

 I especially think it's flattering in profile. Mirror selfie and piles of stuff in the background aside.

I also like that it has a button so I can roll up the sleeves. My arms are pretty short, so sleeves often hit me at an awkward place. Rolling them up makes them look more normal, and also makes it more useful as the weather gets warmer.

However, I'm not sure about the pattern, and I feel like Stitch Fix has already sent me a few tops in this shape. Help!

Verdict: Undecided

Hailey 23 Vlado Dress in Light Grey-- $48

 Look, my eyes are open! Sort of, at least. We're getting there.

Here's the cool things about this dress. One, it looks like a skirt and top, but it fits like a comfortable dress.

 Second, it has a scoop back, so it's a little more exciting, but it's not too revealing, so I would feel comfortable wearing it without a sweater or tank top or anything like that.

Third, it's so soft! And fourth, the skirt has pleats, which we all know I love. This will be great for lazy Shabbat afternoons, and also for work. Finally, $48 is a great price for a dress.

Verdict: Keeping!

Ezra Nawny Tiered Back Knit Top in Grey-- $48.00

 It's possible I pinned this shirt four or five times. Seriously. It's so cool! I feel very strongly that the pictures do not do it justice. (I also think it will probably look better with pants, but time was of the essence, as neither of us had eaten dinner yet.)

The coolest part of this top is the back. Usually shirts with cool back details are super low cut in the back, or sleeveless. This one has sleeves! And full coverage! It's sort of wrinkled out of the box, but with a little bit of pressing, I think it will be fabulous.

To me, this top is a great example of why I love Stitch Fix. It's a super interesting piece, but not necessarily one I would think to look for on my own. It's really comfortable and it fits me nicely. It's good for work, or for play, and the mock layered look means I can get a cool look without wearing a million shirts. It's not super seasonable right now, but I look forward to wearing it the next time it's unseasonably cool. Yay!

Verdict: Keeping!

So there we have it. Two definite keepers, one I don't like, and two I'm undecided on. What do you all think? Help me! Please leave thoughts in the comments! And if you want to get in on the fun, sign up for Stitch Fix here!