Swim caps for all hair types
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I’m an African American woman and I’ve recently overcome my fear of swimming. I’m loving it and enjoy swimming laps as exercise (and a calorieburner that is gentle on my knees). But I’m desperate to find a swim cap big enough to accommodate my natural hair volume, which I also sometimes wear in long braids or weaves. Where can I find a cap like this?
— Erika A.
Dear Ericka: Your search is over. A London-based company, soulcap.com, sells what you’re looking for. Mindful that a disproportionate number of Black people can’t swim (and Black children drown at vastly higher rates than white kids), the founders created their line of inclusive swim caps to fill the void. They come in sizes from junior to regular to large (for long hair) priced at $15 to $19.
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I own a black beaded sleeveless top, vintage, 1950s. The top is all beading, no sequins. I would like to wear it to a December wedding. What can I pair this with? Attire is cocktail. I like the idea of palazzo pants but most dressy ones are black. Would this be too much black?
— Patti C.
Dear Patti: All-black is an elegant option for that winter wedding. Your top sounds perfect, and palazzos are not only stylish but also comfortable. An online search turned up palazzos in additional colors, including red and bright purple if you decide to make an attention-getting statement.
Dear Answer Angel Ellen:
Why are jar manufacturers making it ever harder to unscrew the lids of products like jelly, pickles etc.? I’ve bought an array of gizmos to help me solve this major irritation, but even expensive ones don’t work for me. The best are the textured rubber jar grippers, but even the biggest ones on Amazon are too small to do the job. Where can I find jumbo ones?
— Paul W.
Dear Paul: If you’ve got a scissors, I’ve got the solution! Buy a roll of 12-inchwide rubber nonslip, gripping shelf paper and cut it to the size you want. You will have lots left over to give to your family, friends and neighbors who will thank you for solving this frustrating problem. Amazon.com has many options. You also can find what you need at big-box stores like Target and Walmart starting at around $9.99.
Angelic Readers
Sally D.S. offers, “Another thought for
Derek C. who wanted ideas for a 2-year-old nephew who has ‘everything.’ When Grand #1 arrived 12 years ago, a wise friend offered this suggestion: Her first grandchild had multiple young aunts and uncles on both sides who lavished so many birthday gifts on her that my friend wisely concluded that her toy needs were met, and chose a different direction. Every birthday they gave a book and a contribution to the kid’s 529 college savings plan. They’ve continued to do this as the family has grown.
I thought it genius, and we’ve done it since birthday one. Grand No. 1 came home from a birthday party once and announced, ‘It was weird. She didn’t get a single book.’ I enjoy finding a book for the age and stage of the kid, and while they’re not the most dazzling gifts, Grampa and I are pleased to be giving a gift that will last far longer than that other stuff.”
Now it’s your turn
Send your questions, rants, tips, favorite finds — on style, shopping, makeup, fashion and beauty — to answerangelellen@gmail. com.