This week’s reader questions include advice on end-of-year-bonus jewelry, velvet booties, dry skin solutions, slim wallets, and more…

Hi Belle,

I recently purchased the Dagne Dover Clutch Wallet, which I love.  However, I’m looking for a slim checkbook-sized wallet/insert/case to hold my extra cards and keep in one of the side zips. I found this Henri Bendel banklet, which checks all the boxes from a functional standpoint (right shape/size, doesn’t fold over/snap, good quality).  But it’s a bit more than I’d like to spend and I’m not crazy about their listed color options.  I would so appreciate your help as my style is similar to yours.

Thank you, S

If you’re looking for a slim wallet, Target has a similar offering in gold.  DvF offers this silver one for half the price of the Henri Bendel.   Lodis also has a slim card holder for sale.

Personally, I switched over to a small credit card holder and I’ve never been happier.  Sometimes, I just put it in my pocket and leave my purse at home.  It’s very freeing to learn to live with less.

Belle,

I just moved to the Midwest and my face is so dry all the time. I use a daily lotion but it just doesn’t cut it. Do you have a favorite moisturizing face mask?

Thanks! MC

I really like the $13 Tony Moly Banana Sleeping Pack for a surge of moisture.  Saturday Skin also makes an intensive hydrating mask that comes highly reviewed.

Abra,

Between scarves, zipping my winter coat all the way up, and wearing big chunky turtlenecks, in combination with horribly dry skin and thus using a heavier moisturizer, I always seem to get breakouts in the winter along my jawline. I don’t typically have acne-prone skin. I was fully bundled on my commute to work today and could feel my jawline-pores suffocating, but it’s too cold not to bundle! Any recommendations on how to either avoid or combat this winter acne?

– DG 

First, you need to be exfoliating.  I recommend using either a scrub or an AHA/BHA exfoliating toner.  I like Formula 10 Smooth Operator scrub; it uses tiny pumice particles.  If you would rather use a chemical exfoliator, a lot of readers recommend this Paula’s Choice BHA Skin Perfecter.

To treat the acne you have now, I recommend Cosrx Whitehead Power Liquid and their blemish reducing patches. The patches shrink deep acne like a dream.

Hi Belle,

I’m looking for a new planner for 2018.  I’d like something that costs under-$60.  It needs to be pretty and functional.  Can you help me find one that isn’t boring?

Marti

This year, I bought the Russell + Hazel marble planner (set of 2 $20).  You fill it with the pages of your choice from filler paper to calendars.  You can also buy a pre-filled one for $24.

I also like this Anthropologie planner for $30 and this very minimalist planner from Kikki.k for $60.

Hello,

I’m on the hunt for velvet boots for my Mom’s holiday dinner.  I’m not particular on color, but I need them to cost under $150.  

Sincerely, Charly

These navy Marc Fisher booties would look great with jeans.  These bright raspberry booties and embellished pink bootie are a lot of fun.  For something with a stiletto heel, I love these Ted Baker booties with a sophisticated bow accent.

Abra,

It’s year-end bonus time and I’ve been delivered a larger check than expected – a pleasant surprise, to say the least! Each year I allocate a percentage of my bonus to treat myself with a little something. This year, I’m thinking jewelry.  However, I’ve never bought myself jewelry above the $200 category so I’m not sure where to look for simple, well-made pieces. David Yurman? Tiffany?  Mall jeweler?

My budget is in the $1,000-$1,500 range and I’m a stud earring/stackable ring-kinda lady, so I’m looking for a nice ring or another option to my everyday pearl studs. Any suggestions for brands or stores would be appreciated!

Thank you! KM

First off, no mall jewelers.  This VICE article provides an overview of jeweler tricks and some tips for buying good stuff at a reputable local shop.

As for jewelry in your price range, there are a lot of wonderful pieces in the $1,000 to $1,500 range.  If you like simple, impactful jewelry, I’d try EF Collection, their X-ring is a classic.  Suzanne Kalan is another hot designer to check out.  I like the avant garde design her 18k gold band and her unique diamond earrings.

My jewelry splurge of choice is David Yurman.  In your price range, this long chain link necklace is chic.  This Stax ring in different textures is cool, so is their Belmont link ring.

Hi Abra,

I keep seeing online ads for those magnetic false eyelashes.  I’m thinking of getting them for a few of my girlfriends for Christmas.  Have you ever tried them?  Do you recommend a particular brand?

Thanks, Meg

Don’t bother.  They’re a complete scam.

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