Cars and Crowns- What I Wore
Happy Wednesday ladies. My day was one for the books yesterday. I spent 3 hours on the road each way ( which should have taken 2) to see my trusted dentist. I passed multiple car crashes and roadside fires which slows everything down.
Anywho…he’s taken care of my teeth for over 20 years and knows the ins and outs of the disaster I call, my teeth. My issues are ongoing, as I’m sure yours are because teeth don’t last forever, especially with a crossbite and teeth grinding. I’m now at a whopping 11 root canals, 2 dental implants, and more crowns than I care to count. Remember this fiasco?
I’ve seen 3 local dentists over the last few months who all suggested different plans of treatment. That’s not only confusing, it’s worrisome so I went back to the guy who I have total confidence in. The upshot is, yes, I do have lots of broken things that need fixing and I may even have to break down and do Invisalign on my bottom teeth so I stop snapping off pieces of my top teeth:) Argh…
The fun part of my day was escaping our 100+ temps for a few hours and shopping in my old stomping grounds. The Nordstrom there is much larger than where I live now, so I had a blast looking at all the new merchandise.
I spotted this mannequin and wondered what you’d think of what it’s wearing. That leg you see on the right is not attached to this mannequin and looks bizarre, so just ignore it.
What do you think? Please share your styling ideas for this mannequin.
The 4th of July sales are starting now-
MACY’S – take an extra 40% off with the code FOURTH
ANTHROPOLOGIE – up to 40% off entertaining and summer gifting plus an extra 25% off sale
WAYFAIR – 4th of July clearance up to 60% off
BANANA REPUBLIC – up to 30% off sitewide and an extra 50% off sale, plus an extra 10% off no code needed
LOFT – 30% off full-price styles and an extra 50% off sale with the code HBDUSA ends Thursday
ANN TAYLOR – 30-40% off your purchase with the code TOGETHER
Thanks for reading and remember to floss…just kidding, but smile:)
Yes I feel the pain of huge dental bills. At 64 I hate the thought of fake teeth but it may be better than more trouble and cost later in life. Already did what you did and can not afford more work. Covid cracking from grinding is now a problem.
We can still look good with all your help. After all nobody checks your teeth except the dentist. But they do see you and what you look like. I have nice teeth if you look at me and do not know underlaying trouble.
We were not all born with perfect anything so we do the best we can and get help from blogs like yours. Accentuate the positive and eliminate the negetive. That is the message I get from you!
Keep up the great looks and suggestions.
Your dental woes resonate with me. I’m currently keeping my fingers crossed that my THIRD bridge (the first two having failed) will remain securely in place. That, coupled with a new crown (both paid for out of pocket), have me longing for some adult version of the tooth fairy to offset the expense. 😀. Meantime, I’m enjoying your posts as always and ordering a number of the featured items. Thanks for your guidance!
Thanks, Jennifer, for introducing me to this great crossbody bag by Lo & Sons. I purchased through your site this same Pearl style in Graphite color at 40% off, and it arrived two days later. My hesitation that it might be too large or too brassy was put to rest. A simply beautiful go-with-everything style and color. The story behind Mrs Lo is a fascinating bonus. Keep sharing your special finds…and I may buy you another coffee!
I am crazy about mine!! I’m so glad you like it. I love supporting companies like this too!
I like the dress and would definitely try it on to see if the color works on me. It might be a little too pale. Shirtdresses would be ideal for our slightly more casual return-to-the-office workwear. I could also see wearing this with white sneakers and a straw bag on a weekend.
Well, you made me feel better. I thought I had the worst teeth in the world, but you’ve beat me out for root canals.
I have a crown-happy dentist and a number of teeth that have been crowned before getting to the root canal stage.
One thing that concerned me about invisiline, on teeth with a lot of dental work already, is whether it stresses the dental work that you already have, and could create a need for replacement work.
I had an implant on a front tooth and while I was in the process of the implant healing up, before the crown was placed I had a retainer thing with the fake tooth in it, and it was so tight that getting it on and off was a pain. Shortly after I had several other adjacent teeth with fillings develop leaks and subsquently more work, and wondered whether the stress of pulling that retainer on and off had contributed to those leaking fillings.
You’ve really had some struggleS!I wore one of those flipper fake front teeth too for a while. Such a nightmare. I known you can’t put pressure on and implant because they do fail!
I’m doing Invisalign now and I can say it’s easy, quick and painless. After too many decades of smiling with my mouth closed because I was embarrassed about my teeth being crooked, I look forward to having as nice a smile as you do. Yes, it’s pricey, but I don’t think one can quantify the confidence that a nice smile can provide. Best wishes on your dental journey.
I wore shirt dresses in my 20’s but not anymore, they looked cute then and were fun. I just finished a periodontal cleaning this morning I am so numb today, now to see what is next.
The shirt dress has no appeal to me – maybe because my waist could never be that teensy-weensy! The length is not flattering and the colors seem washed out. I really like your ivory top and cardigan and think it’s timeless. Not a fan of the bandana. A 20-24″ gold chain with a medallion would be my choice to match the hoop earrings. You look lovely, as always! I can relate to your dental hardships : ( I’ve gotten implants and am very happy with them. I regularly go to the dentist for check-ups and cleanings and still end up needing work. My husband never goes and doesn’t have one cavity. Go figure!?
Oh Jennifer your dentistry problems tugged at my
heartstrings. Three weeks ago A cap on my front
tooth fell off and since I live near Salem Mass,
I started calling myself the Salem witch!
Moved here awhile back to live with my
son and family so I went to a new dentist who
first said I would need a root canal, then whie
working on me said ‘um no I don’t think you
need one’. I had a temporary cap put on and
films done and I don’t want to tell you the cost
and I don’t have insurance. Ah well.
I loved the dress. I think I am going to order it -think it would look good on my 5’10” body.
Love your shows with Susan et al. Like her alot.
But I have to say you come across wonderfully
well. Humble, down to earth, funny, truthful
and kind. Oh and non- narcissistic!
What a nightmare with your tooth!! If it’s an implant, I know what you’re talking about, those are crazy! I snapped off a front tooth and it was nothing short of a nightmare to get fixed. Good luck with whatever you decide. It’s never easy. Thank you so much for your kind words!
I don’t like going to the dentist.
Be going for fillin & drillin, root canals, caps etc. for 65 years. I have a very expensive mouth.
To the style:
I like the style maybe in a brighter color plaid. Would have to try it on and see if it popped or no pop!
Hope you get the dental problems under control.
Dear Jennifer,
I love the new purse you bought from Lo and Sons.
I would love for you to do a blog on what you carry in your purse.
I totally understand if that is too personal.
Thanks,
Linda
Not too personal at all. What a fun idea. I’ll do it soon.
Dental issues, YIKES! I feel your pain.
My comments are so similar to others here; though the pink plaid reminds me of a faded man’s shirt, especially the particular plaid. I like the print of the little top in the picture much better. Definitely change the t shirt color, coral would be great and what about salmon, or a pale orange? I think the pattern of the dress with the rounded hem and long sleeves would look better with boots and matching purse ( maybe a saddle type one). I just picture a more “country chic style”
Boots is an interesting idea. Thanks for sharing
Dentists! I hate mine with a passion. I also love him. I have lost count on my root canals.
Sounds like me;)
Jennifer, I’m sorry for your dental woes. I did not realize when I had several crowns done that they do not last forever. I have had one implant and am watching another couple of crowns that seem to be degrading. Things are just starting to open up here in Southwestern Ontario, so i have not been into a clothing store for over a year!! Seems so weird. I have been trying to locate the post in which you recommended silk hair elastics, but I have not been successful. I wonder if you could possibly describe them again. Thanks.
I didn’t realize they wouldn’t last either! I had a bunch done at the same time that are all falling apart now. I think you mean a scrunchie coveted with silky fabric? I buy mine from Amazon. Do you mean like this? https://shopstyle.it/l/bvUXJ
Thanks Jennifer. That’s exactly what I meant.
You have a beautiful smile! You look great!
Yes, I would wear and did wear it once upon a time when we all wore dresses more and that plaid was very popular.
Thank you
Jennifer, I hope your teeth problems get resolved soon. I can see how stressful dealing with that must be for you.
I really like the shirtwaist dress you are sharing. Everything about it suits me and I would very likely buy it, but in a different color. I would be looking for green, blue or black stripes.
Thank you for sharing.
Oh my goodness Jennifer, you had a very challenging day yesterday. I want to say you seem to have a good attitude considering all you have been through with your on going issues with your teeth. We all have something we deal with don’t we? Life can be extremely challenging as we age. I totally understand and get it. You have a
beautiful smile, You remain in my well wishes for a positive outcome.
Not crazy about the dress.
Thanks Katherine, happy Wednesday!
I’m going to be 65 in September and I,too, have Invisalign in my near future. I figure it’s better than losing my upper and lower front teeth!
The dress I would do but without a belt.Also I have been wanting to check out implant for my teeth but afraid it hurts a lot ? I have some (2) teeth out needing replaced. Indecision
They’re not a walk in the park but so worth it! Much better than a bridge in my opinion
Thank you! I’ll be 65 in a few weeks. Glad to know I’m not the only one doing it this late.
I’m really overdue to see my dentist, but fortunately just cleaning and X-Rays I hope. I feel badly that you’re suffering through this process. Ugh.
On the dress, I do rather like the look of the fabric (color too!) but the style here with a bunched up tee underneath is a real turnoff. Not me. I also question the hem…..
I don’t think the mannequin looks nearly as good as you do in your outfit. I especially like your embroidered shoes. I recently visited our local Nordstrom for the first time since COVID and was surprised to see very limited selections. It looks like they cleaned out half the store. But mostly I’m writing to say how sorry I am to hear about your dental issues. My dentist is nearing retirement age and I’m dreading that time. Getting older definitely takes courage!
I really like the color and fabric of this dress, but the style is a “NO” for me. In fact, I like it even less after seeing it on their website … without the belt it looks so shapeless and unflattering. I’d like to see this as a blouse … I’d definitely wear it.
Sorry to hear about your dental issues. I’ve been lucky and blessed in that department — one crown which was uneventful and no other problems, which I very much appreciate. Best of luck to you.
Sorry about your teeth problems. My problem has been grinding teeth. I have been using a mouth guard for years. It doesn’t bother me, it is very thin and fits on like a glove.
I deal with sinus issues mostly. We all have something I guess.
The dress on mannequin is not for me. I really don’t wear dresses with waists. I am short and no waist, chops me in half. The dress has a sloppy unstructured look in my opinion. I look good in a swing dress or straight, or straight with an empire no gather if I wear one. Talbots has nice dresses . I usually go with solids , very slimming and makes me look taller.
Thanks for sharing what you find.
I certainly feel you with the Dentistry bit. My Dentist of 30 years retired and I was forced to find a new one who wanted to replace and implant ALOT! Long story short, I ended up finding a new dentist in Costa Rica! I go to one in the states for routine, but seems everything is crowns and implants outside of routine and suffice to say, Costa Rica is 75% less than in the US, my Dental insurance covers it and they guarantee for life. Happy to share more info . I’ve been going to Costa Rica for dentistry for 9 years now.
Sorry you are going through such dental issues, Jennifer. I went back to your earlier blog for some background. Having someone you completely trust is such a bonus when you are feeling vulnerable.
I am presently up for a molar extraction …opting for some ‘happy’ meds, as the young oral surgeon said he wouldn’t be without it ! It’s an older root canal with crown, something I thought was to be forgotten.Wrong… became infected and rather tender. Luckily back where it won’t affect ‘my magical smile’, so no bridge or implant being considered. More money for fashion!
The shirt dress certainly needs a hit of interest, and since I have them ,I’d use a rope & leather belt and matching leather sandals. Some chunky craft accessories too. I wear peach well, but not with the t-shirt. Best just on its own.
You work hard on this site, and I so appreciate it, Jennifer.
It’s been a great addition to the last few months since I discovered you!
Actually feeling a chill this morning after the mercilessly hot 🥵 days, and ready to hang out our flags🇨🇦 for a subdued Canada Day. Sadly, we have a lot of thinking and reconciliation to do about our historical decisions.
I have been reading about those past decisions and I am so saddened!! Sorry about your tooth. I know exactly how that feels. I had a side tooth get infected and they just could not kill the inflection. It spread to my jaw and cheekbone. I’d already had a root canal and crown on it so the only thing they could do was pull it. Take the happy meds! You’ll be very glad you did. Good luck!
Your dental story is a doozy! I’m so sorry for all of that!
I like the dress, but just don’t think I could pull it off. No curves, so a belt never really helps me with something like this. Just kind of makes the fabric puff out on me, if that makes sense. I like the color. I agree with others that a pop of color would be nice – or even a bright white top under instead of the muted blue.
Thanks as always for your posts 🙂
Even though it is long sleeved (can roll up) and do like its neckline (collared and V) a ‘no’ to this shirt dress as prefer a full button opening as otherwise feel like I am wearing a nightgown plus it gives less option for styling as often wear the one that I do have as an overlay with various lengths/types in bottoms. (i.e.: Partially buttoned to the waist line or fully opened combined with a top.) Also shall add; because of my fair complexion the color would wash me out and I would also be concerned about its fabric opaqueness if wearing just as is and how its shirttail hem is finished. (i.e.: Single or double rolled, top-stitched or serged since washing can distort.)
As to the way it is styled; do feel that the tie-dye ‘T’ works but would replace the cognac shoulder strap purse with an off-white or light gray and add chosen footwear in accordance. For jewelry; I’d choose a casual sports-watch with minimalist earrings. (i.e.: Ear lobe cuff, stud or fine hoop in an acrylic or metal.) I would not add the belt as IMHO defies the purpose of the casual design and comfort of the dress, however if it came with a self belt I would be tempted to tie it at the back for a more tidier fitted effect. -Brenda-
P.S.: Sorry to learn that you are still experiencing dental woes but hopefully they will be over soon.
Ooops; should read …. to tie it by double lapping it at the back for a more etc. (I assume it would have belt loops.) -Brenda-
Thanks Brenda
I have had two dental implants and know that they are no picnic. Sorry about your ongoing dental issues, but hope the future will bring better luck.
I wish I could wear a shirtdress like that, but alas I am too short and curvy for it to look good on me. The good news is that at Talbots the other day I found the cutest summer blue print dress with a fitted top, faux wrap side, and straight skirt that fit me well and was made of a comfortable stretch material! (I wish I could share a picture of it. Is that possible?) Of course I bought it immediately. I was not even looking for a dress, but I tried it on a whim and recognized that it was perfect for me. My lucky day.
It sounds fabulous! I love finding treasures like that.
Sympathy over your dental woes. When we downsized and moved 2hours away we also left behind our family dentist of 40 years. I, too, will make the drive if something major needs doing. He did all but one potential crown before we moved. He , too is close to retirement.
Currently, I had a total knee replacement last Friday, so now feeling the pain of therapy. Dresses are my go to at home, and shorts for the PT.
I actually like this dress. I would keep accessories simple. Sandals, light chain necklace and earrings.
Wow, Kathy! I hope things ease up for you soon. I know that’s really painful. Feel better soon
I could make it work when the weather cools down by pairing it with a sweater vest to reign some of the volume. I see a pretty tan sweater vest and my brown booties. I would need to shorten it. It might not work but worth a try if it goes on sale. I I wouldn’t buy it full price.
Interesting ideas! Thanks for sharing
I really like the shirt dress, only I’d like it in shades of blue instead of the pinkish color. I’m pretty short, so a few inches shorter would also work great. This dress would get a lot of wear from me. I’d pair it with sandals and perhaps a belt that’s a little wider. It might also look okay without a belt.
I always read your posts; you inspire me to up my fashion sense, take care of my body buy during sales.
I am so sorry to hear of your dental fiasco. Your experience does resonate with my life on so many levels.
I didn’t care for the outfit today. It reminds me of when I am not feeling well and want to wear something very comfortable. If I were to style it, I would go beltless , wear a cute sun hat, throw it on over a swimsuit and wear it with strapy sandals at the beach. Of course it would have to be colorful flowers instead of a muted plaid.😎
Happy Wednesday
That dress can’t decide whether to be a dress, a shirt, or a nightgown. Insipid colours and many/most women our age have no waistline so the gathered waist is out. Sorry to be so harsh but hats how I see it.
HI Jennifer,
I empathize with you about your teeth! Wow! What you’ve been through and are going through is traumatic! I don’t blame you for going to the guy who knows you best. I’ve been with my dentist for 30+ years and I travel a bit to see him. It’s worth it.
Shopping afterward eases the pain…always! We have to have “the fun” with the traumatic!
The mannequin, hmmm, kind of dull in color for me. I would not wear the T shirt under it. I’d keep it cool and calm. Maybe a delicate gold necklace and some gold stacked bracelets would look nice and give it a little sparkle. (Can’t tell if the belt buckle is gold or silver, but I’d wear the jewelry that matches it). I like the belt. I’d keep that look. Another look would be to go neutral with some ivory beads, rope or cork espadrilles and a rattan tote. Or colorful beaded stack bracelets and flip flops! There are many looks you could do with this somewhat neutral dress. I like it. Like the crossbody bag shown too.
I love the idea of ivory, rope and rattan with this.
Shopping was a great distraction 🙂
We make regular trips to the Sacramento area from Marin , not a freeway drive I like 🙁, but – grandkids 🙂. Just like you, accidents, speeders, fires ugh!
Anywho, you do look great, and I love the shirt dress minus the grey tee underneath.
I really the dress and would wear it in the later warm months (like September) because I think it’s A good transitional piece. Also add A pink top under and a blush color belt. Leather shoes too. For jewelry you are the expert here so I will defer to you. Likewise, the makeup. With your coloring, I think you would look very nice. Keep white Jean jacket handy too. Good luck with your teeth. I opted for an upper denture (I always disliked my smile) I like the new smile but the denture is at best an annoyance. Lesson here: take care of your teeth.
I can empathize with your dental woes. All my life I have needed root canals, crowns, extractions, and now very expensive implants. ( I have eight so far). It doesn’t ever end. On the other hand, I am otherwise blessed with good health at 77.
The shirt dress on the mannequin doesn’t do it for me. I prefer dresses without a waistline, especially since my waist has expanded over the years!!
Thank you for those words of encouragement, Elena. Teeth are fixable and many health issues are not!
I love hearing from you every week. I especially enjoyed the live show you did. It was like having best friends in my living room. Do you have anything in your archives about what to buy your daughter in law? I always struggle with this when it is her birthday. I never want to buy the wrong thing but I would like to acknowledge her in someway. So sorry about the heat wave there. We will be visiting then Pacific Northwest soon and hopefully it will be cooling off!
Body lotions and little pampering luxuries are always appreciated. Gift certificates seem too impersonal to me so you could include a gift card incase she wants to exchange things. Perhaps include a box of lovely chocolates with the body treats.
I can totally relate to the dental woes! It has always been a love/hate relationship with my dentist!
Now to the dress question.. not for me at all! The cut of the hem, cinch waist, overall color and style are not good for me! I am 5’4 size 8/10 and I think even a petite would make me look frumpy! That is the LAST look I want at 66 years old! My sz 4, 5’7, 38 yr old daughter could wear it!
Lol, frumpy is never my goal either! Happy Wednesday Brenda
Ditto about teeth.
I love shirtwaists with belts because as I age and shrink, I have developed a middle-body roll and the belted style is a good camouflage. But I would wear a navy or royal blue tank and perhaps belt (neutral belt might be better). I think the outfit needs an intensity contrast…navy or royal tank or even scarf with the peachy color should work. Navy or neutral shoes and perhaps contrasting earrings (I have some royal blue with gold that might work). Lots of experimenting to find best contrast…black might be too stark.
I agree that it needs a pop of color. Coral? For both the tank and the belt? Looks like a nice, soft cotton dress, though.
Coral would be pretty.
Thanks for sharing those styling ideas, Leona. I love the idea of experimenting to find the best contrast.
Thank you for reminding all of us with healthy teeth and gums to be thankful. Your smile is lovely, so do what you have to do to keep it looking and feeling great. Not a fan of today’s dress, but love your hair in your photo! Keep smiling and stay cool! Love your posts….you inspire me! And love the Fridays with the other bloggers….hope you keep it up!
Thanks Terry:). And here I was just thinking I am due for a hair cut 🙂 We sure do plan to continue.
Jennifer, I missed the video about skincare that y’all did. Is that on YouTube? Or, still available elsewhere? I’m several years older than you and I removed my amalgams in February which brought on other dental issues. At this age, it’s always something!
It is always something! You can rewatch it here https://www.instagram.com/tv/CP_bnyEA4Q-/?utm_medium=copy_link
I had poor dental healthcare as a child and paid (literally) for it with lots of hours in a dentist’s office. We are so much wiser today about caring for our teeth and frankly, caring for our entire body. Do what you need to do and keep moving forward.
I do like the color and pattern of this dress. I would prefer that in had buttoned all the way down the front. It’s long enough to allow the bottom two buttons to be left open, thus allowing for easier movement. It would also elongate the look. I would then consider wearing it without a belt .
I am pretty much done adding any more summer clothing. It has to be something pretty terrific.
Once the heat and humidity settle in, it’s all about simplicity for me. No muss, no fuss!
Thanks for sharing Jan
I’m so sorry about the dental issues! But you have a great smile!
The dress … no for me on many levels. The color is way too dull! The fit would make me feel. (and probably look) dumpy! I prefer a shift any day!
Dental issues are a complete nightmare! I literally feel your pain. I would probably never get a dress like that to ever fit me but it looks comfortable, just not for me.
So sorry to hear about ordeal with your teeth!
I would admire this dress on someone else who is taller. It would be all fabric on me. Reminds me of women in those 50’s tv shows, looking elegant and cool.
I am so sorry that the saga with your teeth continues, Jennifer. It causes me to realize that I, for the most part, take a pain free mouth for granted. Not today! Hope the issues are resolved soon.
Regarding your post, the dress is a definite yes but the color a maybe. The design of the dress is nearly perfect for me. I like that it does not button all the way past the knee. For some reason, I have a difficult time keeping those buttons closed with a few embarrassing accidents to show for it! I prefer vertical patterns over horizontal ones, so that’s a check. It looks comfortable. My hesitation is the color. I am a “bright winter” who looks best in bolder colors. But since this dress looks like it’s in the cool range, I’d try it.
One final question. Did it see to you that stores are featuring fall transition merchandise even earlier this year? That seems so on some of the Nordstrom brand sites. I was also startled to walk into a local shop to look for a top ten days ago- mid June- to be informed that the summer inventory is bare and fall coming in.
I’m not seeing fall yet in our stores. I know Nordstrom is getting ready for the Anniversary sale which is all fall things but generally stores seem to be getting things more in season. They are still having long shipping delays too which will impact what’s on the floor.