Question:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather.

My wife is a manager at Macy’s … and she somehow comes up with a suitcase full of new clothes each winter cruise we take … Be seeing you In the Village Number 6

Response:

Try HiloHatties.com Great stuff for tropical climates. Joyce I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

– "We do not see things as they are, we see things as we are." – The Talmud "People demand the freedom of speech to make up for the freedom of thought which they avoid" – Kirkegarde "Software without support is hardware" – JR/1999

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.)

I don’t know much about tropical womens clothing but if I need to get something off season for a cruise that isn’t currently available at local stores because it is the wrong season, I go to online stores of Lands End or LL Bean. http://www.landsend.com , http://www.llbean.com/ — Charles

Response:

 Click on   ~~~ www.travelsmith.com Phone   800 950 1600

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Try one of my all-time favorites,  www.chicos.com I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

landsend.com and llbean.com have summer wear, bathing suits etcd — Sheree

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

Ditto for Land’s End and LLBean. Also things like Limited2 and Bebe. –Tom

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – landsend.com and llbean.com have summer wear, bathing suits etcd — Sheree I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

Most of the stores up here in the north east have the type of clothing you want out now.  We got some last week Pete

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Not knowing what size you may be or what price range you are thinking of, here are some URLs that may help: Nice, light weight, gauzy clothing: http://www.aprilcornell.com/cornell/ From doing a quick google search: http://www.drawstringsofmalibu.com/ http://www.spacestation42.com/Shops/beach-wear.html http://www.peglutz.com/CyberStore/resort/ http://shop.inthepinkonline.com/inthepink/ http://www.firstresortclothing.com/cruise_wear.htm http://www.painagirl.com/ http://www.moonbowtropics.com/ http://www.mytiesarongs.com/ http://www.imperialeye.com/cruiseandresortwear.htm http://www.surfshopcity.com/specialtysizes.htm

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could

use a few more things to wear<< Check out http://www.ablambdin.com beautiful resort wear… can be pricey, though. I discovered it 2 and 1/2 years ago… get the catalogs with sale pricing and get email alerts. It all depends on your taste in clothes….I buy, somewhat, differently, clothes for cruises, than I do for every day type clothes..I have 2 closet full of cruise clothes…I dress *up* every single night…love it! Have never been disappointed in the selection offered. I would never look to a Landsend or LL BEAN type place for cruise clothes.( maybe, maybe.. but, ACK..not really, if I was considering an Alaska cruise?!) Also, check out Lew Magram? Do a google search, …some of their clothes are a bit much, over the top, but…I’ve been able to find quite a few hidden gems… lastly… go to newportnews.com.. lots and lots of great clothes, in many, many different styles, and bargains, galore! Including, shoes, summer shoes…even at this time of the year. As for me, I don’t much care for Chico’s… too much of that *crinkled* look! What’s up with that? YUCK! Best of luck to you and I hope you have a fantastic vacation. I’ve got about a gazillion other catalogs that have wonderful resort wear…email me if you need anymore info. or sources. Eileen — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

Try one of my favorite’s http://www.aprilcornell.com/   Diane Giambalvo Travel Consultant GalaxSea Cruises And Tours East Brunswick, NJ 1-800-357-9393 http://www.galaxseaeb.com

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Neiman-Marcus always puts out a resort wear catalogue this time of year.  Their sale catalogue also has some warm weather clothing at much better pricing.

Response:

Thanks Eileen for the Lambdin link.  Never heard of it.  Beautiful things! I ordered 2 capri outfits for my upcoming Panama cruise.

Response:

Thanks, everyone, for all of the great suggestions. A.B. Lambdin and Travelsmith seemed to have the most choice. LL Bean and Lands End had swimsuits but not much else in the way of hot-weather clothes. I was intrigued by the April Cornell clothes, but the site again didn’t have hot-weather stuff yet. Who says buying online is faster than going to the mall? I’ve just spent hours and hours surfing these sites, but did fiind some stuff I’m going to order. It was 0 degrees here in Boston yesterday, and surfing (alas not on warm waves but on the internet) seemed preferable to driving to Macy’s. But I still may do that. It’s 87 degrees today on my island destination, and I’m looking forward to stepping off the plane and finding summer. Diana

Response:

landsend.com and llbean.com have summer wear, bathing suits etcd

Are you and Charles engaged to be dull? The Not So Fine Art Of Google http://makeashorterlink.com/?E29A321E6

Response:

This thread has been a revealing look into what the women of rtc wear on their vacations

And in their bedrooms. The Not So Fine Art Of Google http://makeashorterlink.com/?E29A321E6

Response:

Check out http://www.ablambdin.com

Nice. I have one for you too. http://www.homemade-sex-toys.com/ Get an education. The Not So Fine Art Of Google http://makeashorterlink.com/?E29A321E6

Response:

try Magellan’s — all messages scanned with Norton Antivirus 2003 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

Thanks Eileen for the Lambdin link.  Never heard of it.  Beautiful things!

I ordered 2 capri outfits for my upcoming Panama cruise.< Your welcome, Pam. I was just looking at the latest catalog..got my eye on a couple of things. This year, I picked up a beautiful white, lace-ruffled peasant blouse…it was really touch and go…it was on back order..came in 2 days before our departure date…had it overnighted to our hotel in Ft. Lauderdale. It’a really pretty blouse, got lots of compliments. I got a great looking navy, sequined, double-breasted jacket with snazzy, gold striping at the cuffs and gold nautical buttons at Lew Magram. I don’t usually shop while cruising, but DH surprised me and bought me a beautiful london blue topaz and diamonds ring in St.Thomas, the shop next door had some nice looking hats and DH told me to knock myself out! I love hats…I had 3 hatboxes full of then shipped to the hotel, also..we were about to leave St. Maarten, when I spotted a fantastic little shop (really, no bigger than a hut) that had exquisite, hand made hats and bags, turns out, (I didn’t find this out until after the cruise, while in FLL) the woman who owned the shop and made the hats and bags was featured on Oprah a few years back.. the show where she features the "Best of Everything"…the hats and bags had beautiful flower blossoms on them. The name of the place is Solar Splash…I’m waiting to get an email from the women…she was in the process of getting a website..apparently the domain name she wanted was already taken…there was a gorgeous red and yellow hat and bag, covered with rose blossoms that I want..gonna plan a whole new outfit around them! . I bought a very pretty peach hat with peach and white asiatic lillies with a bag to match.. went perfect with the white ruffled peasant blouse! After the cruise we stayed at the Hyatt Pier 66, in FLL for 5 days…found a perfectly matching pair of peach colored sandals with lillies, in the lobby gift shop, to go with it! Next year! LOL! And found an adorable black and red bag shaped like a chinese take-out box. All I *need*, now… is a hat, dress and shoes to go with it! tee he! Have a great cruise, Pam…wish I were going. We are going to book the Brilliance, again, for December 13..11 days. We had a fantastic cruise on the Brilliance for Thanksgiving. I even made the video! Wearing a hat, too! LOL! Eileen — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

hsn.com Search the Maggie Sweet line under the fashion category.  Great clothes.

Response:

My favorites are: A. B. Lambdin  http://www.ablambdin.com/ and Paradise on a Hanger http://www.hotshirts.com/aloha/default.asp Sue   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

ANd her we had been looking for Tropical Bow tie sets adn could never find them! THANKS for the Link! I may need this one day Susette Join us on our Annual Group Cruise 04Dec04 Jewel of the Seas! Check out our website: www.cruiseoutlets.com

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Couple of weeks ago I got a "cruise wear" catalog in the mail from Talbots. Most of their stuff is a little too dowdy for me, but I did fold down a few pages . Lee

Response:

For tropical bow tie sets and vests, I prefer the following site, unless I’m looking for a matching dress: http://www.tuxedo-formalwear.com/ Sue – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ANd her we had been looking for Tropical Bow tie sets adn could never find them! THANKS for the Link! I may need this one day Susette Join us on our Annual Group Cruise 04Dec04 Jewel of the Seas! Check out our website: www.cruiseoutlets.com

Response:

thanks sue! Susette Join us on our Annual Group Cruise 04Dec04 Jewel of the Seas! Check out our website: www.cruiseoutlets.com

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather.

My wife is a manager at Macy’s … and she somehow comes up with a suitcase full of new clothes each winter cruise we take … Be seeing you In the Village Number 6

Response:

Try HiloHatties.com Great stuff for tropical climates. Joyce I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

– "We do not see things as they are, we see things as we are." – The Talmud "People demand the freedom of speech to make up for the freedom of thought which they avoid" – Kirkegarde "Software without support is hardware" – JR/1999

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.)

I don’t know much about tropical womens clothing but if I need to get something off season for a cruise that isn’t currently available at local stores because it is the wrong season, I go to online stores of Lands End or LL Bean. http://www.landsend.com , http://www.llbean.com/ — Charles

Response:

 Click on   ~~~ www.travelsmith.com Phone   800 950 1600

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Try one of my all-time favorites,  www.chicos.com I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

landsend.com and llbean.com have summer wear, bathing suits etcd — Sheree

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

Ditto for Land’s End and LLBean. Also things like Limited2 and Bebe. –Tom

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – landsend.com and llbean.com have summer wear, bathing suits etcd — Sheree I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

Most of the stores up here in the north east have the type of clothing you want out now.  We got some last week Pete

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Not knowing what size you may be or what price range you are thinking of, here are some URLs that may help: Nice, light weight, gauzy clothing: http://www.aprilcornell.com/cornell/ From doing a quick google search: http://www.drawstringsofmalibu.com/ http://www.spacestation42.com/Shops/beach-wear.html http://www.peglutz.com/CyberStore/resort/ http://shop.inthepinkonline.com/inthepink/ http://www.firstresortclothing.com/cruise_wear.htm http://www.painagirl.com/ http://www.moonbowtropics.com/ http://www.mytiesarongs.com/ http://www.imperialeye.com/cruiseandresortwear.htm http://www.surfshopcity.com/specialtysizes.htm

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could

use a few more things to wear<< Check out http://www.ablambdin.com beautiful resort wear… can be pricey, though. I discovered it 2 and 1/2 years ago… get the catalogs with sale pricing and get email alerts. It all depends on your taste in clothes….I buy, somewhat, differently, clothes for cruises, than I do for every day type clothes..I have 2 closet full of cruise clothes…I dress *up* every single night…love it! Have never been disappointed in the selection offered. I would never look to a Landsend or LL BEAN type place for cruise clothes.( maybe, maybe.. but, ACK..not really, if I was considering an Alaska cruise?!) Also, check out Lew Magram? Do a google search, …some of their clothes are a bit much, over the top, but…I’ve been able to find quite a few hidden gems… lastly… go to newportnews.com.. lots and lots of great clothes, in many, many different styles, and bargains, galore! Including, shoes, summer shoes…even at this time of the year. As for me, I don’t much care for Chico’s… too much of that *crinkled* look! What’s up with that? YUCK! Best of luck to you and I hope you have a fantastic vacation. I’ve got about a gazillion other catalogs that have wonderful resort wear…email me if you need anymore info. or sources. Eileen — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

Try one of my favorite’s http://www.aprilcornell.com/   Diane Giambalvo Travel Consultant GalaxSea Cruises And Tours East Brunswick, NJ 1-800-357-9393 http://www.galaxseaeb.com

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Neiman-Marcus always puts out a resort wear catalogue this time of year.  Their sale catalogue also has some warm weather clothing at much better pricing.

Response:

Thanks Eileen for the Lambdin link.  Never heard of it.  Beautiful things! I ordered 2 capri outfits for my upcoming Panama cruise.

Response:

Thanks, everyone, for all of the great suggestions. A.B. Lambdin and Travelsmith seemed to have the most choice. LL Bean and Lands End had swimsuits but not much else in the way of hot-weather clothes. I was intrigued by the April Cornell clothes, but the site again didn’t have hot-weather stuff yet. Who says buying online is faster than going to the mall? I’ve just spent hours and hours surfing these sites, but did fiind some stuff I’m going to order. It was 0 degrees here in Boston yesterday, and surfing (alas not on warm waves but on the internet) seemed preferable to driving to Macy’s. But I still may do that. It’s 87 degrees today on my island destination, and I’m looking forward to stepping off the plane and finding summer. Diana

Response:

landsend.com and llbean.com have summer wear, bathing suits etcd

Are you and Charles engaged to be dull? The Not So Fine Art Of Google http://makeashorterlink.com/?E29A321E6

Response:

This thread has been a revealing look into what the women of rtc wear on their vacations

And in their bedrooms. The Not So Fine Art Of Google http://makeashorterlink.com/?E29A321E6

Response:

Check out http://www.ablambdin.com

Nice. I have one for you too. http://www.homemade-sex-toys.com/ Get an education. The Not So Fine Art Of Google http://makeashorterlink.com/?E29A321E6

Response:

try Magellan’s — all messages scanned with Norton Antivirus 2003 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

Thanks Eileen for the Lambdin link.  Never heard of it.  Beautiful things!

I ordered 2 capri outfits for my upcoming Panama cruise.< Your welcome, Pam. I was just looking at the latest catalog..got my eye on a couple of things. This year, I picked up a beautiful white, lace-ruffled peasant blouse…it was really touch and go…it was on back order..came in 2 days before our departure date…had it overnighted to our hotel in Ft. Lauderdale. It’a really pretty blouse, got lots of compliments. I got a great looking navy, sequined, double-breasted jacket with snazzy, gold striping at the cuffs and gold nautical buttons at Lew Magram. I don’t usually shop while cruising, but DH surprised me and bought me a beautiful london blue topaz and diamonds ring in St.Thomas, the shop next door had some nice looking hats and DH told me to knock myself out! I love hats…I had 3 hatboxes full of then shipped to the hotel, also..we were about to leave St. Maarten, when I spotted a fantastic little shop (really, no bigger than a hut) that had exquisite, hand made hats and bags, turns out, (I didn’t find this out until after the cruise, while in FLL) the woman who owned the shop and made the hats and bags was featured on Oprah a few years back.. the show where she features the "Best of Everything"…the hats and bags had beautiful flower blossoms on them. The name of the place is Solar Splash…I’m waiting to get an email from the women…she was in the process of getting a website..apparently the domain name she wanted was already taken…there was a gorgeous red and yellow hat and bag, covered with rose blossoms that I want..gonna plan a whole new outfit around them! . I bought a very pretty peach hat with peach and white asiatic lillies with a bag to match.. went perfect with the white ruffled peasant blouse! After the cruise we stayed at the Hyatt Pier 66, in FLL for 5 days…found a perfectly matching pair of peach colored sandals with lillies, in the lobby gift shop, to go with it! Next year! LOL! And found an adorable black and red bag shaped like a chinese take-out box. All I *need*, now… is a hat, dress and shoes to go with it! tee he! Have a great cruise, Pam…wish I were going. We are going to book the Brilliance, again, for December 13..11 days. We had a fantastic cruise on the Brilliance for Thanksgiving. I even made the video! Wearing a hat, too! LOL! Eileen — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

hsn.com Search the Maggie Sweet line under the fashion category.  Great clothes.

Response:

My favorites are: A. B. Lambdin  http://www.ablambdin.com/ and Paradise on a Hanger http://www.hotshirts.com/aloha/default.asp Sue   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Response:

ANd her we had been looking for Tropical Bow tie sets adn could never find them! THANKS for the Link! I may need this one day Susette Join us on our Annual Group Cruise 04Dec04 Jewel of the Seas! Check out our website: www.cruiseoutlets.com

Response:

I’ll be traveling to the south Caribbean in February and realized I could use a few more things to wear. I’ve been googling but haven’t come up with a website that offers a good choice of hot-weather clothing for 85-degree-plus weather. (I won’t be on a cruise.) Anyone know of any sites? I’ve tried Amazon, Nordstrom, etc.

Couple of weeks ago I got a "cruise wear" catalog in the mail from Talbots. Most of their stuff is a little too dowdy for me, but I did fold down a few pages . Lee

Response:

For tropical bow tie sets and vests, I prefer the following site, unless I’m looking for a matching dress: http://www.tuxedo-formalwear.com/ Sue – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ANd her we had been looking for Tropical Bow tie sets adn could never find them! THANKS for the Link! I may need this one day Susette Join us on our Annual Group Cruise 04Dec04 Jewel of the Seas! Check out our website: www.cruiseoutlets.com

Response:

thanks sue! Susette Join us on our Annual Group Cruise 04Dec04 Jewel of the Seas! Check out our website: www.cruiseoutlets.com

Response:

Question:

If both of you like opals and that’s what you can afford right now, I’d say go with the opal.  You can always get her a diamond later, perhaps for your five year anniversary.  The ring is symbolic as much as anything and neither of you will be happy if you’re starting your life together in debt (for either a ring or a wedding).

Response:

I would strongly encourage you not to go into debt, either for the wedding or the ring.  Lovely weddings can be held, without looking cheap, for less than the standard big ‘do.  Perhaps an afternoon wedding, followed by a champagne and cake reception.  Very elegant, and you don’t have to take out a loan for the "trappings" of dinner, dancing, long sit-down reception in a hotel, etc. As for rings: ask your dearest one what she would prefer.  If she has her heart set on a solitaire ring, and you have your heart set on buying her one someday when you are able to, perhaps you could choose a nice solitaire ring and set it with a colored stone.  I don’t know much about gemstones, but I don’t mean a sapphire or ruby or emerald — maybe an amythist or those light-blue or clear-pink ones (topaz? something like that?), as a place holder.  There are many lovely "lesser" gemstones you might consider. You might also consider buying her no engagement ring, but getting her a wedding band set with diamonds (one of those sparkly ones).  You could "add" the solitaire ring to the set for a later anniversary, when you are able. These suggestions are if you are *sure* she wants to "upgrade" later. Many of us love our rings to death, and would never want to trade them in for more expensive rings simply because they are our engagement rings.  Talk to her!  It’s nice to be surprised, but get a general idea before you go picking the specific ring out.  She may be happier with a 5-diamond engagement ring — or, she may prefer to go with a 1-c. CZ solitaire.  Everybody’s tastes are individual. Mary — Mary Sweathe San Francisco, CA Before you buy.

Response:

Thanks for all the recommendations. I’ve been looking on the net (miadora.com and mondera.com) and have found that I could get a .51 VVS2/I center diamond with 2 20c VS1-2/F-G side diamonds for $1785. This is less than I thought, so I’m considering it… We are going to go looking at rings, soon, just so I can get a good read on which she would RATHER have – something like what I describe above, or just a solitaire, or perhaps an opal or sapphire with diamonds. Personally, I like opals and sapphires more than diamonds, especially with a couple of small diamonds on the sides… But I need to find out from her which she would prefer… I can swing $1800 okay – could pay it back in 4-6 months. I know everyone says "don’t go into debt", but the bottom line is, there is no other way, to do it right… the key is to keep the debt to a minimum, that I can handle… I’ll keep you posted what I end up buying… Thanks again… Standard Disclaimer #143:  I am not a doctor, blah blah blah… I am not giving medical advice, I am only giving testimony based on my experiences. Each person is responsible for what they do with information gathered. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

What do you all think? Would she rather

What we think is irrelevant.  What SHE thinks is what’s important.  Why don’t you let her know what the budget is and then go ring shopping TOGETHER!!  That’s what my husband and I did when we got ready to buy a ring.  As a result, I have a gorgeous sapphire and diamond e-ring set in gold that I love and that wasn’t nearly as much as he thought he "needed" to spend. Karen

Response:

Don’t go into debt over the ring!  It’s a bad way to start your life together. I will suggest something that worked for us, although I don’t know how feasable it is for you.  When we got engaged, my fiance was very short on cash… I mean, your $1500 would have been a fortune for him to spend on a ring!  So he went to the "refurbished" counter at our local Macy’s department store.  At this counter you can buy jewelry that other people have traded in toward the purchase of more expensive jewelry.  You can get *fantastic* buys there, but the catch is that they come with no papers.  He found a small diamond solitaire that was set in white gold- exactly what I wanted: it was like it had been put there for us!  He paid about $300 for it.  He had no guarantee of the quality of the stone at the time, but it was beautiful, white, and sparkly as all get-out.  Well, after about 3 years of wondering, I finally got it appraised at a reputable jeweler just a couple of weeks ago, and the appraisal price is $1100.  The stone, although just 1/4 carat in size, is of very good quality. Anyway, it’s something to think about.  Buying a yellow diamond or a CZ, or going into debt, are not your only options.  What do you all think? Would she rather have a cubic-zirconia – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -with a promise to buy a real one later, or would she rather have a multi-stone ring with lower quality diamonds? Either way, I feel I am slighting her, but I just cannot afford to spend $2500+ on a ring, right now… The wedding itself is going to set me back more than I can afford… Or should I just go into debt for the "right" ring, and make the monthly payments?

Response:

In a previous article, Yarrow01 said… I will suggest something that worked for us,

[tip snipped] Something else you might try:  Go to your local (pro, not volunteer) fire house, and ask if anyone knows anyone in the jewelry business. I’M NOT KIDDING! I don’t know a firefighter who doesn’t have some sort of second business – given the fact that they can retire in 20 years, and that they mostly work only two or three very long shifts a week, leaving plenty of time for another job or business. I bought my ring from a firefighter in PG Co., Maryland – and got a great deal.  It’s worth a call to the fire house, just don’t dial 911.  It’s not THAT important!  =) — Joe Pucillo                          http://www.JoePucillo.com Baltimore, Maryland  USA To reply by email, please remove the .xx from the address.

Response:

I think you should not buy a diamond right now and save up until you can afford one.  A lot of people never even have engagement rings.  I wouldn’t buy her something she doesn’t like or will want to change later.  You can get wedding rings, then get her a diamond at a later date.  I would much rather do that than get something I really don’t like.  The smaller diamonds are usually not rated, so that is not unusual.  I wouldn’t get a poor quality diamond either or a fake diamond.  I guess the upgradde would be o.k.  Diamonique on QVC is really nice and looks real (I think).  You could get her that for now and then save for the real thing later.  DO NOT GO INTO DEBT FOR THIS RING!!  That is a huge no no.  You wil regret it later.  Spending your first couple years as a married couple in debt would not be fun.  I would either just wait or do the upgrade thing.  She should understand your situation, right?  You don’t have to have an engagement ring to get married.  I know it is not ideal, but you will be happier.  You know what she wants, so wait and get her what she really wants.  Tell her your feelings — I’m sure she will understand.   One more thing — can you not get a 1/2 carat solitaire for under $1500?  I’m pretty sure you can.  Many of my friends have 1/2 carat very good quality diamonds that I’m sure were bought in your price range, but I could be wrong.  That would be another option, and she could get a wrap for it with more diamonds if she wants something flashier.  I would probably hold out for what she really wants, but that is really up to you. Good Luck, Kelli

Response:

In a previous article, jimsocal said… I can swing $1800 okay – could pay it back in 4-6 months. I know everyone says "don’t go into debt", but the bottom line is, there is no other way, to do it right… the key is to keep the debt to a minimum, that I can handle…

Have you considered an alternative method of "doing it right": Make payments to yourself for 4-6 months, then pay cash for the ring?  You’ll save yourself an awful lot of interest, and may make a little interest for yourself! What everyone is saying, "don’t go into debt," is right! Try doing it the old-fashioned way.  =) — Joe Pucillo                          http://www.JoePucillo.com Baltimore, Maryland  USA To reply by email, please remove the .xx from the address.

Response:

Re Opals… Just adding that I have not heard Opals are bad luck unless it’s your birthstone.  I heard that it is bad luck if you buy one for yourself.  So if it’s a gift for your fiance, go ahead and be happy. Friends of mine bought opals when they were in Australia years before they were married.  They had their favourite one made into a ring for her, and then they added diamonds to it when they got engaged. Yvonne – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I posted here a few months ago and got some good feedback re engagement rings. But since then I’ve done some research and have further questions. I am having to pay for the wedding in total, for various reasons. Therefore I really cannot afford an expensive ring. In fact I am going to have to borrow money, so want to keep the price of the ring around $1500. My experience so far has been that I can’t really afford a good diamond solitaire for that price. I mean, I could get a yellowish one with visible inclusions, but not a great diamond… So I am looking at something like a 5-diamond ring, maybe .2 carats each. She has actually seen some of these that she likes. However, it seems most of these are of lower quality diamonds, and are usually not issued with certificates of authenticity/grading. Right? So my questions are: Are multi-diamond stones like this "acceptable" as engagement rings? Are they worth buying? How do I know the quality/value of the diamonds if they’re not graded and issued with certificates? Or does none of this really matter? My only other option would be to buy a solitaire with a cubic zirconia or other fake diamond for now, with a promise of upgrading it, later, when I have more money… Actually, my other idea was to try to find a really pretty opal with a couple smaller diamonds on the side. We both like opals, but I have a feeling buying this type of ring for engagement would make me look cheap… But in reality, with only $1500 to spend, I guess I am, anyway… Her preferences? I think she would kind of prefer a 1 carat – more or less – diamond solitaire. But I don’t think I can afford that. I think she would be happy with a 5-smaller-diamonds ring, as she has shown me one like this that she likes. I didn’t buy it because it wasn’t graded and I hate to pay even $1500 for something that I have no idea what it is I’m buying… What do you all think? Would she rather have a cubic-zirconia with a promise to buy a real one later, or would she rather have a multi-stone ring with lower quality diamonds? Either way, I feel I am slighting her, but I just cannot afford to spend $2500+ on a ring, right now… The wedding itself is going to set me back more than I can afford… Or should I just go into debt for the "right" ring, and make the monthly payments? Standard Disclaimer #143:  I am not a doctor, blah blah blah… I am not giving medical advice, I am only giving testimony based on my experiences. Each person is responsible for what they do with information gathered. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

– Yvonne Dionne Ottawa, Ontario  CANADA! http://www.ncf.carleton.ca/~ao594

Response:

FWIW, a ring with 5 0.2ct stones and a fairly thick band, at the price range of $1500 should be graded about G-H and SI1, or a similar grading. There is an old superstition that only those born in October should wear opals because of their energy.  It is supposed to bring the wearer bad luck, otherwise.  Don’t say I completely believe it, but I have never worn an opal… What about another nice gemstone?  IS she interested in anything else?  I have seen many rings (emerald, saphire, amethyst, ruby) in the $1K-$1500 range, which include diamonds and would make nice engagement rings. Bottom line is, DO YOUR HOMEWORK, compare prices, and talk to your local jewelers.  Avoid the big chains, and make an educated decision!! HTH, L.

Response:

"jimsocal" said: I am having to pay for the wedding in total, for various reasons. Therefore I really cannot afford an expensive ring. In fact I am going to have to borrow money, so want to keep the price of the ring around $1500. My experience so far has been that I can’t really afford a good diamond solitaire for that price. I mean, I could get a yellowish one with visible inclusions, but not a great diamond… So I am looking at something like a 5-diamond ring, maybe .2 carats each. She has actually seen some of these that she likes. However, it seems most of these are of lower quality diamonds, and are usually not issued with certificates of authenticity/grading. Right?

Right. You’re correct to avoid the yellowish diamond with visible inclusions; it’s a terrible value, and ugly to boot. The five-diamond ring, assuming the diamonds aren’t set in a funny shape (some swirl or something), is a pretty choice, and looks *wonderful* with a plain band.  Diamonds *under* half-carat are not graded, because they’re not terribly expensive (in the grand scheme of a diamond, on which you can spend $50,000 easily – er, quickly). However, any reputable jeweler should be able to work with your budget. I suggest that you visit www.davidsdiamonds.com; David’s a fabulous jeweler and a very nice guy. At the very least, you’ll get some good advice. So my questions are: Are multi-diamond stones like this "acceptable" as engagement rings? Are they worth buying? How do I know the quality/value of the diamonds if they’re not graded and issued with certificates? Or does none of this really matter?

See above; yes, they’re worth buying. Truthfully, if you’re not investing a huge amount of money in the stones, does it matter the quality, as long as the ring is beautiful? Is anyone going to look at your beloved’s finger and ask the quality of the stones? If so, may I gently recommend that said stones make contact with the inqusitioner’s nose? In short, it doesn’t matter.. My only other option would be to buy a solitaire with a cubic zirconia or other fake diamond for now, with a promise of upgrading it, later, when I have more money…

Don’t. Do the best you can with something real. The promise isn’t the ring. It’s you. Actually, my other idea was to try to find a really pretty opal with a couple smaller diamonds on the side. We both like opals, but I have a feeling buying this type of ring for engagement would make me look cheap… But in reality, with only $1500 to spend, I guess I am, anyway…

Opals are beautiful, but not a great choice for an everyday ring, as they’re very fragile. I don’t have a diamond, I have a sapphire. Truth be known, the most common gemstone is the diamond; their value is artificial. DF chose a sapphire for me because it’s rarer than a diamond. You’re not cheap, you’re broke. Big difference. Her preferences? I think she would kind of prefer a 1 carat – more or less – diamond solitaire.

That’s what anniversaries are for! What do you all think? Would she rather have a cubic-zirconia with a promise to buy a real one later, or would she rather have a multi-stone ring with lower quality diamonds? Either way, I feel I am slighting her, but I just cannot afford to spend $2500+ on a ring, right now… The wedding itself is going to set me back more than I can afford… Or should I just go into debt for the "right" ring, and make the monthly payments?

Nope. Don’t go into debt. Think about this: what are lower quality diamonds? How are you defining that? Where did you obtain your definition? From someone who says that you should spend 2 mos salary? Puhleeze. Again, look at it. If it’s beautiful, and if her eyes light up, it’s the best quality you can buy, and it’s the right ring. End of story. Good luck! Keep us posted. Liz (happy with her sapphire!)

Response:

I posted here a few months ago and got some good feedback re engagement rings. But since then I’ve done some research and have further questions. <snip Actually, my other idea was to try to find a really pretty opal with a couple smaller diamonds on the side. We both like opals, but I have a feeling buying this type of ring for engagement would make me look cheap… But in reality, with only $1500 to spend, I guess I am, anyway…

My ring cost less than $500 NZD, which is probably about $350 USD in terms of purchasing power parity.  It is NOT cheap.  It is the most beautiful ring I have ever seen, including ones in a museum.  And this is not just love biasing my eyes.  However it helps that I don’t like diamonds and think that when it comes to jewellery simplicity and ceylonese sapphires are the ultimate in beauty.   So my advice is look at other stones.  Opals are quite nice (though not as nice as sapphires  :-)  ).  My grandmother has an opal engagement ring which is lovely.  You should be able to find one that costs considerably less than $1500.   If you and her have your hearts set on diamonds choose a smaller, well-cut stone over a larger one.  The beauty of the stone is not dependent on the size.   Her preferences? I think she would kind of prefer a 1 carat – more or less – diamond solitaire. But I don’t think I can afford that. I think she would be happy with a 5-smaller-diamonds ring, as she has shown me one like this that she likes. I didn’t buy it because it wasn’t graded and I hate to pay even $1500 for something that I have no idea what it is I’m buying… What do you all think? Would she rather have a cubic-zirconia with a promise to buy a real one later, or would she rather have a multi-stone ring with lower quality diamonds? Either way, I feel I am slighting her, but I just cannot afford to spend $2500+ on a ring, right now… The wedding itself is going to set me back more than I can afford…

I’m beginning to feel you should be scaling back the wedding as well. Or should I just go into debt for the "right" ring, and make the monthly payments?

Definitely do not go into debt.  Any more suggestions that $1500 (I presume USD) is cheap will arise my ire.  $1500 is a large amount of money and should buy a very beatiful stone.  And it’s the beauty (in you and your fiance’s eyes, not anyone elses) that matters, not the amount of money you’re willing to spend.   Plus, I don’t know about your fiancee, but I would have hated for Andrew to go into debt to buy something for me.  It would have destroyed the happiness I get from my ring.   T.J. — http://homepages.ihug.co.nz/~tajwileb/ The right half of the brain controls the left half of the body. This means that only left handed people are in their right mind.

Response:

I posted here a few months ago and got some good feedback re engagement rings. But since then I’ve done some research and have further questions. I am having to pay for the wedding in total, for various reasons. Therefore I really cannot afford an expensive ring. In fact I am going to have to borrow money, so want to keep the price of the ring around $1500. My experience so far has been that I can’t really afford a good diamond solitaire for that price. I mean, I could get a yellowish one with visible inclusions, but not a great diamond… So I am looking at something like a 5-diamond ring, maybe .2 carats each. She has actually seen some of these that she likes. However, it seems most of these are of lower quality diamonds, and are usually not issued with certificates of authenticity/grading. Right? So my questions are: Are multi-diamond stones like this "acceptable" as engagement rings? Are they worth buying? How do I know the quality/value of the diamonds if they’re not graded and issued with certificates? Or does none of this really matter? My only other option would be to buy a solitaire with a cubic zirconia or other fake diamond for now, with a promise of upgrading it, later, when I have more money… Actually, my other idea was to try to find a really pretty opal with a couple smaller diamonds on the side. We both like opals, but I have a feeling buying this type of ring for engagement would make me look cheap… But in reality, with only $1500 to spend, I guess I am, anyway… Her preferences? I think she would kind of prefer a 1 carat – more or less – diamond solitaire. But I don’t think I can afford that. I think she would be happy with a 5-smaller-diamonds ring, as she has shown me one like this that she likes. I didn’t buy it because it wasn’t graded and I hate to pay even $1500 for something that I have no idea what it is I’m buying… What do you all think? Would she rather have a cubic-zirconia with a promise to buy a real one later, or would she rather have a multi-stone ring with lower quality diamonds? Either way, I feel I am slighting her, but I just cannot afford to spend $2500+ on a ring, right now… The wedding itself is going to set me back more than I can afford… Or should I just go into debt for the "right" ring, and make the monthly payments? Standard Disclaimer #143:  I am not a doctor, blah blah blah… I am not giving medical advice, I am only giving testimony based on my experiences. Each person is responsible for what they do with information gathered. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response: