But wait. Renowned designers began to create lines of fashion items especially for their own branded outlet stores.
Is the name there, and the price low? What a story! But the quality is also poor. The Federal Trade Commission (ftc.gov) advises consumers to be aware.
Thin, lower quality fabrics are often used, as well as poor stitching; the sewing skill is not there. Cheaper buttons and zippers are used; the patterns may not line up. All signs of substandard merchandise.
These elements are not leftovers from the department store; they are made especially for the factory outlet. It is certainly a choice that we have as consumers; just caution emptor – be aware of what you are buying.
PS There are some big discount stores (you know their names) that carry brand name designer items. Their items may very well have remained from the department store.
Dear Héloïse, Are you helping settle a dispute? What is the sequence of dental hygiene operations? Brush, floss, rinse? Floss, brush, rinse or rinse, floss, brush?
– So Confused, by email in New York
So confused: We will take a look. In the morning, you may be tempted to take a little mouthwash, then brush your teeth and floss. Resist.
Especially if your mouthwash contains fluoride, you’ll want the mouthwash to rest on your teeth as you go through your day. Use the mouthwash last.
Experts are divided on whether brushing first or flossing first is ideal. You need to floss every day, but only once a day, so many dentists recommend brushing, flossing, and then rinsing.
However, flossing first ensures that food particles are swept away, which can allow for more thorough brushing.
As long as you are performing all three tasks, your oral hygiene should stay on track. Check with your dentist what she recommends.
PS Never rinse the dental floss. Throw it in the trash.
Dear Héloïse, Do you remember the wicker from the 1980s? It seems to be making a comeback! But what is wicker? A fiber?
– Shauna S. in Tennessee
Shauna S. in Tennessee: Yes, I saw more wicker. The term “wickerwork,” however, does not refer to the material, but to the actual act of building the room. Wicker, some say, is derived from the word “woven.”
What is woven? Reed, willow, rattan… strong, durable and light fibers. Indoor, outdoor – look for wicker everywhere!
Dear Héloïse, I have heard of drying the hair with a t-shirt. I do not like it. I sponge (never rub) my shoulder-length hair with a microfiber towel, let it air dry while I do my makeup, then comb it gently and dry it on a low heat.
When the hair gets wet, it swells and becomes prone to breakage. The heat is also terrible for the hair.
2021, King Features Syndicate
