This Amazon dress gets me so many compliments, and it's on sale right now for under $70 — but hurry, it's a lightning deal
After searching for the perfect summer dress for an event and having no luck with my go-to retailers, I started to feel defeated and decided to check out Amazon for a last-minute option. I wasn't hoping for much, but I figured Prime delivery would ensure it delivered on time, and who knows, maybe I would stumble upon something flattering to get me by.
Luckily, I ended up hitting the Amazon fashion jackpot. I opted for the PRETTYGARDEN Women's Eyelet Maxi Dress, and it totally exceeded my expectations in terms of quality and cuteness. It immediately reminded me of the bestselling Somerset Dress from Anthropologie — but at a more affordable cost.
Quick shop:
I snagged it in this bright blue shade, which screams summer, and it scored me tons of compliments at said event. When I told people it was from Amazon Canada, they were visibly impressed. While $73 can be considered pricey for the retailer, in my review below I'll touch on why I think it's worth the price — as well as some areas that could use improvement.
However, while we're on the topic of price tags, select colours and sizes of this dress are currently on sale — but only for a few hours. Read on for the details before the lightning deal ends.
Review: The details, pros and cons
Let's dive into all the details of this frock, why I think it's great, as well as what I didn't like.
Right off the bat, this dress is effortlessly stylish and comfortable. It's made from soft, lightweight fabric and features a flattering A-line shape, chic V-neckline and dainty eyelet details that add a feminine touch.
The short sleeves and ruffled hem make it look elevated (and quite frankly, more expensive than it actually is). Plus, the flowy silhouette is flattering for all body types, making it a go-to for everything from special occasions to casual brunch.
It's available in sizes S–XXL and in various vibrant and neutral colours. You can pair it with your favourite sandals, flats or heels to complement virtually any look you're going for.
What I love about it:
The airy eyelet material feels very comfy for all-day wear
Its flowy A-line silhouette is flattering and makes me feel confident
The V-neckline allows me to dress it up with necklaces
It's versatile — great for travel, events or casual days
Very stretchy and not constricting
Super easy to take on and off (no buttons, zippers or anything to fuss with)
What I don't love about it:
It's on the pricier side for Amazon (however, still worth it, in my opinion)
I spotted some threads that had to be cut off
It's on the bigger side, so next time I'd size down
The liner underneath isn't as long as the dress itself (just a personal pet peeve)
No pockets!
What others are saying
👗 "Truly a great find."
⭐ 4.5/5 stars
🛍️ 800+ ratings
Don't just take my word for it — let's see what other reviewers have to say about this dress. Do they love it as much as I do? Someone who is "very self-conscious" about their postpartum body said they're "in love with this dress." "This dress made me feel better," they stated.
Another person called it a "fun, cheerful dress" that you can wear to "a range of occasions." A third reviewer echoed this sentiment, calling it a "beautiful dress."
"This dress is so incredibly flattering," said one customer. They continued, "If it were $20 cheaper I would probably buy another colour."
"Minimizes my stomach, defines my waist," wrote one person. However, they said, "If I could change one thing, it would be to lengthen the arms a tad."
"The only 'eek' was the price… just a tad too rich for my blood but in the end, it was worth it!" shared another.
So, what's the verdict?
If you've been struggling to find the perfect versatile dress for many different occasions, this PRETTYGARDEN Women's Eyelet Maxi Dress might be just what you're looking for. As a shopping editor, I come across (and try on) a lot of pieces, and I can honestly say the quality on this one passes the test. After wearing it to an all-day event, I can confirm it's comfortable, lightweight and very flattering.
However, is it worth the price? I'm going to say yes, especially on sale, while simultaneously agreeing it's kind of pricey for Amazon. But hey, when you find something good, sometimes you've gotta splurge.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Buzz Feed
4 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
These Comfy Sandals Are Popular With About Everyone
Sporty performance sandals are trending hard this summer, and everyone from affordable retailers like Target to high-end design houses has a variation on the theme. Everyone's getting in on the sneaker-sandal look, but my eagle eyes have spotted the Keen Hyperport H2 shoes on everyone from ultra-stylish fashion gals to hiking buffs and even toddlers. These versatile shoes are the perfect blend of form and function, making them ideal for all your summer activities. These shoes provide all the comfort of cushy lightweight sneakers with the breathability of a sandal, while the rugged silhouette gives them a funky, unique sensibility that can be styled in a variety of ways. You can wear them with everything from a dress to camping gear and look great at all times. Recently, I was at a party where my incredibly chic friend had paired these shoes with a floaty linen set, while another friend's baby was rocking their pair with checked jeans and a tee. If that isn't a resounding endorsement, I don't know what is. Keen Hyperport sandals are constructed for durability and stability, with a toe bumper that can help prevent injury while hiking and anti-odor properties so you don't have to worry about stink. They have a high-rebound insole and extra-thick midsole to put a whole lot of pep in your step with a delightful amount of cushioning to absorb impact and keep you comfortable whether you're on a hiking trail, strolling around town, chasing after kids or running lace-free design includes a bungee cinch that adds pizzazz and makes the shoes easy to slip on and off. Reviewers love that the roomy toe box helps toes breathe while still keeping the heel firmly in place and that the quick-drying, water-repellent materials and grippy rubber lug outsole make these shoes perfect for water-based activities. It's not often you can say that there's a single shoe that is perfect for everyone, but Keen Hyperport H2 sandals are universally beloved by fashionistas, outdoor enthusiasts and everyone in between. Keep reading to check out what other happy shoppers have to say and pick up a pair to enjoy the rest of the summer and for many adventures to come. Get them from Amazon in women's for $97.40+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 10 colors) or in men's for $79.38+ (available in sizes 7–15 and 10 colors).


Buzz Feed
6 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
If You Need Help Entertaining Your Kids This Summer, These 36 Products Will Surely Keep Them Busy
An Elmer's glue slime kit since slime is easily your kids' favorite craft. From butter slime to glow-in-the-dark slime to color-changing slime — this'll def be a craft your kid will always be in the mood to do. The kit includes regular slime activator, crunchy slime activator, butter slime activator, glow-in-the-dark slime activator, cherry limeade scented activator, glitter glue, clear glue, color-changing glue, glow-in-the-dark glue, and translucent glue. Promising review: "My kids loved this kit. Hours of fun! Did it make a mess? Yes… but it cleaned up easily. I didn't allow the slime on carpet or fabric furniture, so I don't know how easily it would clean up off of that type of material. The mess was totally worth it for me. For reference, my kids' ages are 15, 10, and 7. They all enjoyed it." —Michael it from Amazon for $30.82 (available in one other kit). A pack of 12 reusable, latex-free silicone water balloons to keep the battles going all summer long. You know what this means, don't you? You won't have to pick up alllll those tiny pieces of destroyed balloons! A waterproof version of Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza so you can avoid the "I'm borrrred" whining during adult swim this summer. Your kids may not even wanna get back in the pool cuz they'll be so into their fave game. Dolphin Hat Games is a small biz that specializes in family-friendly card play, pass out all of the cards to players and have everyone keep their pile facedown. Everyone takes turns putting a card in the middle while saying "taco," "cat," "goat," "cheese," and "pizza" in that order. If the picture on the card that's placed down matches the word that's been said, everyone races to slap the center pile of cards, and whoever slaps the pile last has to add the center pile to their personal pile. Oh! And there's also "narwhal," where everyone makes a unicorn horn with their hands clapped together above their heads; "gorilla," where everyone bangs on their chest like a gorilla; and "groundhog," where everyone has to knock on the table. Whoever does the motion last picks up the center pile. Whoever runs out of cards first wins! You can play with three to eight players, and the *recommended* age is 8+.Promising review: "I always think about games to play when at the pool — especially when there are 10-minute swim breaks and everyone is out of the pool — this is the perfect game! First of all, our family loves Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza. It's a game that's really easy to learn and is an energetic card game (perfect for kids!). To be able to bring this game around the water is awesome. I love how the cards are heavier, so they don't blow away as easily, too. The card ring makes them really easy to just toss in a bag, and I feel like it's indestructible. Honestly, we'll probably play this version of the game even inside just because of how indestructible it is (no one accidentally stepping on a card/ creasing it, etc.). Highly recommend!" —jessieGet it from Amazon for $14.99. An inflatable chicken game, which includes two big ol' fighting chickens that your kids will wanna play with every single day. They'll have a blast wrestling each other off of these big, silly chickens, and best of all, they won't be wrestling in your house next to your very expensive china cabinet. Heck, you might even wanna get on one during your lunch break to partake in all the fun. Promising review: "These chickens are probably the most awesome pool floats we have ever purchased! We have two 12-year-old boys who are having a blast on these things! They also like to sit on them and battle with our pool noodles! They seem to be very durable and have held up well so far. They are not like the cheaper floats that you have to keep blowing up. Yeah, they are a tad bit on the pricey side, but trust me, they are worth it and tons of fun for adults as well." —Vanessa KGet a set of two from Amazon for $69.95. A friendship bracelet-making kit 'cause nothing says summer like arms full of colorful threaded bracelets. It also has a compartment that's perfect for storing all the floss! Or a rainbow loom kit with over 7,000 colorful latex-free rubber bands in 21 different colors that'll last your kiddo all summer. They'll be able to make themselves all the anklets, chokers, and bracelets their little heart desires. Reviewers love it because it keeps their kids busy for hours. Music to your ears, huh? You'll get 7,000+ rubber bands, 300 C-clips, a rainbow loom hook, 12 gift bags, instructions, and a handy organizer case, Promising review: "I have seven kids ranging from a 13-year-old boy down to a 5-year-old girl who all absolutely love making these bracelets. Keeps them busy for hours." —KeverlyGet it from Amazon for $21.99. A 150-piece marble run set that'll provide endless hours of fun and stimulate your little mini bestie's mind. Your kid will be able to build some pretty awesome mazes, and once they're done, they'll be able to take it apart and create a totally new one! The gift that keeps on giving. A splash mat — basically a slip-and-slide style, three-lane race with three inflatable bodyboards that'll keep your kids outdoors, playing together, rather than fighting and whining in the living room. Promising review: "We used this at my daughter's birthday party to distract the bigger kids. They played on this thing all night. It held up well and did not leak. The boards were the perfect size for the kids. We loved this slip and slide." —KelciGet it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in four sizes). The Pastry Project monthly subscription box that your mini Duff Goldman in the making will go wild for. It's truly a win for everyone — your kid will be entertained, and you'll get to indulge in all the yummy treats they make! Caramel cheesecake brownies, cream puffs, pretzels, apple fritters — is your mouth watering? 'Cause mine is! Promising review: "My 11-year-old son loves to bake, but a lot of recipes are too involved for him to do on his own yet. However, he recently received a pastry kit subscription as a gift, and these kits are perfect! The instructions are easy to follow, the ingredients are high quality, and the finished products are delicious. My son can make these recipes all on his own and is learning new techniques with each one. He is SO excited to receive the next one!" —ShaylaGet a monthly subscription from The Pastry Project for $35 (also available in a one-time purchase, and 3-, 6-, and 12-month subscriptions). A portable 120-inch screen because the only thing better than watching a movie is watching one outdoors on a summer night. Just set it up with a mini Bluetooth projector and *boom!* Your house is the place to be this season. And some movie trays to take your movie-watching experience to the next level. There's no way your kids won't be happily glued to the screen with their snacks in their lap. You'll get 12 popcorn bags and six movie trays!Promising review: "These are great for movie nights with the kids! Bags hold a decent amount of popcorn, trays are sturdy and not flimsy/cheap, and easily hold everything. Definitely recommend these!" —JRGet them from Amazon for $9.99. A clay pottery wheel kit for your crafty little one who can't get enough of a good ol' art project. And making your own jewelry dish is pretty dang cool, might I add. A two-pack of LED hover balls because your kiddos simply cannot understand why they aren't allowed to play soccer in the house. These have built-in bumpers, so you don't have to worry about your furniture getting all messed up as they glide across the floor. A collection of six Dog Man books for those days where your kid has so much energy you can not stand it anymore. Whip these out and they'll *actually* be excited to sit quietly for a while. Promising review: "My son was in the third grade and raved about these books all year. After volunteering at the school's book fair, I learned how popular Dog Man was, and not just to third graders. Kids of all grades from second to fifth took an interest in Dog Man. The books were sold out by the third day of a week-long book fair. Needless to say, this was a great buy!" —KyshaGet a collection of six books from Amazon for $42.87. A Dude Perfect tabletop game since it's their fave show and they *live* for the fun challenges these guys do. Now they can do one of their very own! Promising review: "My kids love all things Dude Perfect, and this game didn't disappoint either! The nets stick perfectly on the end of the table. Fun game and great gift for birthdays, Christmas, or just because!" —RaeGet it from Amazon for $18.30. A set of sprinklers to attach to your trampoline because everyone knows that water elevates any and every summer activity. It'll bring a whole new level of fun to bouncing around. Promising review: "The Trampoline Sprinkler Water Toy is a blast — easy to set up and perfect for cooling off. It sprays all around the trampoline, creating a playful water park vibe in your backyard. My kids loved bouncing through the mist — great for hot summer days." —KSNGet it from Amazon for $13.99. A Disney princess color-by-number coloring book that'll have your kid wanting to do absolutely nothing but sit quietly and color for hours. I have three of these coloring books (this one is on my wish list), and I'm obsessed with themmmm. I kept seeing them on TikTok and had to have them. Pro tip: grab some paint pens (these are the ones I bought). They make all the difference, and that's how the coloring pages end up looking so good. Plus, the paint pens don't bleed through! I have no regrets and plan to buy basically every single one of these coloring books. But for now, I'm loving the three I have (check 'em out — 1, 2, and 3).Promising review: "I absolutely love the Disney Princess Color by Number books! As an adult, I find them incredibly relaxing and fun to work on, and they turn out beautifully every time. My kids enjoy them just as much, making it a great activity we can do together. The designs are detailed enough to be satisfying for adults but still accessible for kids. I've already purchased several more because we can't get enough! Highly recommend for both kids and adults who love Disney and coloring. Perfect for display models, too!" —JenniferGet it from Amazon for $25.29. A splurge-y rechargeable laser tag set your child will NEVER stop talking about. Laser tag right at home? Sign me up! Your house will now be the house all the kids wanna sleep over and hang out at. And, admit it, you'll wanna play a round or two with them as well. A Black Panther Lego set with 2,961 pieces that'll have your kid occupied basically all summer. If your teen is Marvel-obsessed, they'll *actually* love this. I know, it seems like they don't enjoy anyFREAKINGthing, but trust me, they'll be tucked away for hours working on this. Promising review: "This Black Panther Lego set is amazing and quite large. My teen son put it together over three days working on and off. The Lego bust is detailed at every angle and even has its own necklace and moveable fingers. This was a great activity for my son, as well as an amazing addition to his Marvel collection. Definitely recommend." —MelitaGet it from Amazon for $324.99. Or a Venom Lego set because nothing will bring you more peace than sitting your kiddo down with 565 Lego pieces to assemble. No worries, it won't try to eat everyone. It's recommended for 18+, but reviewers say their kids were able to do it on their own, or only needed a bit of help. It could even be a fun activity to do with your kiddo who complains they're bored every five minutes. Promising review: "This thing is very cool. Bought this for my 10-year-old son to build. He is just getting into Legos and was able to build this with minimal help. Instructions are very easy to follow, and the end product looks amazing. If you're a fan, this is a very cool item to put on display." —Alinette HayesGet it from Amazon for $124.95. An inflatable tic-tac-toe pool game, an epic challenge your kids won't be able to get enough of. Much more fun and unpredictable than the paper-and-pencil version. Promising review: "I ordered this for the kids to break up the monotony of the same boring pool games and floats, and it's been a ton of fun! It's fun for all ages, my husband and I have also been playing tic-tac-toe with it! Highly recommend!" —C TuckerGet it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in three colors). An I Spy book because remember how long *you* used to sit and search through this riddle book? You may even be tempted to give this baby a go yourself. A guaranteed good time no matter the age. Promising reviews: "Kept the 5-year-old grandson entertained for hours! Great interactive book for connecting with your little one!" —Michael D. Barry"My grandsons love I Spy books. Like all the other I Spy books we own, this one did not disappoint. Such great quality books and such a wonderful alternative to tablet time." —Gregory M. MatliGet it from Amazon for $9.30. An air fort, so they won't need to arrange all the furniture and take every blanket in the house to make a fort anymore. The same level of entertainment with way less mess. A splurge-worthy Nintendo Switch because your kid is a total gamer and has been eyeing this baby for a while. It comes with two detachable Joy-Con controllers, and they'll be able to play this on the TV, tabletop, or as a handheld game. (Meaning it's portable!) A spacious inflatable pool they'll be so hyped about. Their very own pool?! IN THE BACKYARD?! Getting them to go play outside will be so easy. Or an inflatable water park to keep your kiddos cool and entertained. Avoid heat-induced meltdowns by giving your little one a play center equipped with two slides, a climbing wall, a splash pool, a deeper pool, a water bucket, and tons of little areas that spray water. Your house will def be the fun house all summer. Uh, do they happen to have one in an adult size? 'Cause I want one. A bubble gun that shoots out hundreds of bubbles at a time, creating a bubble frenzy! You won't be able to resist joining in on the fun, and it has lights! A paintable squishies kit because the only thing better than these soft little toys is making 'em yourself! Since your kiddo already has a squishy obsession, they'll probz flip their lid when you hand them this and they realize they can make their very own. You may need to stock up on these kits, cuz they're gonna wanna paint more and more of these babies. A glow-in-the-dark tumbling tower game with LED building blocks for some nighttime entertainment. It has three LED pattern modes for fun, challenging new ways to play this classic building game. Perfect for late-night BBQs and pool parties! Promising review: "We love this!! It's like light-up Jenga. We set it up, turn it on, and turn the house lights off. The kids love it!! Pieces are quality-made. Going to buy one as a gift for my brother!" —Janice ConklinGet it from Amazon for $65.99. A fully equipped Klutz Lego Make Your Own Movie Activity Kit for your little creative kiddo who has the imagination of the kid from Where The Wild Things Are. Give 'em this and let their little minds run wild. They'll be stoked to watch a mini-movie they made themselves. I think you've got a baby Steven Spielberg on your hands. Promising review: "My son got this for a Christmas present and it was hands down the best gift. He has made so many cute films using the props in the kit. He has also become very curious about how movies are made and the different jobs people have to make a movie. Highly recommend this a gift for a curious kid." —Wünderbar MuttiGet it from Amazon for $24.74. A "Sorry!" board game — sorry to your kids, that is, because you're def gonna kick their little booties in this. Your kiddos are gonna be the ones pulling *you* away from the board 'cause you won't be able to get enough of this super fun "classic game of sweet revenge." To play, each player draws cards that move them through the board. The first player to get all their pawns across the board and back home wins! Recommended for ages 6+.Promising reviews: "Nostalgia made me buy this game, and I couldn't be happier. Got my kids to enjoy a game I enjoyed as a kid, and they loved it — I kicked their butt :)." —AK"This was always a childhood favorite of mine. Still enjoy playing it now with my daughter. New rules make it more fun and quicker to play. The whole family enjoys it." —Jennifer TavaresGet it from Amazon for $9.84. An inflatable double-sided table set that comes with waterproof playing cards and two inflatable sling chairs with cup holders. On one side, they can play regular card games or even poker, and on the other side, they can play chess and checkers. Playing card games is cool, but playing card games with a cold soda in the pool = elite. Promising review: "Love love love this product!!!! We use it a whole lot. We usually play Uno at the pool. We have the Uno waterproof cards, and it's so cool for the kids and me to play together. The material is super sturdy, and the attachments are good material as well. No fear of tearing it, 'cause it's very thick. Excellent buy!!!" —MiguelinaGet it from Amazon for $45. A set of two Banzai Bump N Bounce Body Bumpers, kinda like the Sock'em Boppers your mom wouldn't let you have in the '90s. Totally don't be a regular parent, be a cool parent and snag these for the yourself. You know you wanna try. A What Do You Meme? SpongeBob edition that puts a wonderful Bikini Bottom twist on the regular game. If you and your minis love to spend the day reciting SpongeBob quotes, this game is *perfect* for your fam. To play, everyone will be given caption cards. A meme picture will be put on the mini easel, and players will all match a caption card to that meme. An appointed judge will decide which combo is funniest, and whoever wins that round gets to judge next and keeps the meme. The player with the most memes at the end wins! Recommended for ages 8+.Promising review: "This was a gift for my son, and he was so excited. It's a super funny game and had us all laughing! It is good quality, the cards are printed well, and I'm sure we will play it many times. Good for all ages, it is kid-friendly." —KBall18Get it from Amazon for $13.59. A create-your-own published storybook kit your creative kiddo will *swoon* over. Have them fill out the included papers with their own story and illustrations, slip the pages in the pre-addressed envelope, pop it into the mail, and they'll get a printed, hardcover book back. If your kid has a wild imagination, give 'em this and they'll be distracted with creating their book for hours, ~and~ it'll teach them that their imagination can take them far. It comes with a blank cover page, 20 blank storybook sheets, a guidebook, a pre-stamped mailing envelope, and 10 review: "My daughter, who is 10.5 years old, is working on her own book! She loves this gift so much. It has given her a project where, instead of racing through it, she is taking her time. She cannot wait to finish her personal story so we can ship her pages back and receive her hard-bound book. She will soon be an author! Thank you for making an affordable, creative, hands-on project for anyone to enjoy." —Jessica it from Uncommon Goods for $32. Some glow-in-the-dark beach balls that'll keep the kiddos entertained way longer than the regular ol' beach balls because who doesn't love a lil' glow-in-the-dark fun? Promising review: "We ordered these for a pool party for our teen. The kids absolutely loved them, and I am convinced it contributed to extending the outside time late into the evening and kept them enjoying the pool longer. The ambiance was fun and great for all! The quality seems great." —Leanne MolterGet a four-pack from Amazon for $24.99 (also available in an eight-pack). Your kids during adult swim when you pull out the waterproof Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza: The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.


Forbes
7 hours ago
- Forbes
You Want To Speak Memorably? Try These Smart Tips
In today's high-stakes professional world, the ability to communicate isn't just a competency—it's currency. Are you leading a team? Strong communication skill is one of your most important tools. Pitching a product? Ditto. Navigating a job interview? Ditto. In most every workplace situation, your presentation style can be the defining factor between influence and invisibility. Bill McGowan understands this better than most. This Emmy Award-winning TV journalist and bestselling author is a top communications advisor to leading names in business, tech, entertainment, sports, and finance. He's coached the founders of Amazon, Meta, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Spotify, Snapchat, and Airbnb … as well as Oscar, Emmy, and Grammy winners and World Series, Super Bowl, and Olympic champions. McGowan's latest book is Speak, Memorably: The Art of Captivating an Audience. His experience in TV journalism underscored many of the lessons he now provides as a coach. For example, when McGowan worked on ABC's popular '20/20' show, the executive producer would share the minute-to-minute ratings of a segment. Any time an on-camera personality told a story, viewers' interest spiked. Stories, McGowan learned, are much more compelling than statistics. You want to break out of the conformity zone? McGowan recommends avoiding 'corporate speak' and communicating concisely with clarity and simplicity. And at every opportunity, use pertinent stories. While it's important that every part of a presentation be interesting and relevant, McGowan highlights what psychologists call the primary-recency effect: people tend to remember the first and last items in a sequence better than those in the middle. That's a clue on where compelling stories, challenges, or facts should be in a presentation. To underscore the importance and power of simplicity, McGowan tells of a CEO who was in a media interview about a struggle his company was experiencing. The interviewer asked the CEO, 'Why do you think your IPO underperformed vis-à-vis the other companies in your competitive space?' McGowan says that instead of blaming the market or a poor valuation or even suggesting that they didn't have the right financial institution leading the offering, the CEO simply said, 'We underperformed because we failed to come up with a narrative that could fit on the back of a cocktail napkin.' McGowan used that story to kick off a speech he made to a group of communication clients. Using a 'through line,' the connective tissue that helps explain the relevance of a story, he spoke on the subject of simplicity. Citing research studies, McGowan says factual information embedded within storytelling becomes 22 times more memorable 'than if you just fire hose talking points and data points.' McGowan coaches his clients to communicate the visual, the specific, and the anecdotal. When you speak abstractly and theoretically, it's pictureless, he says. 'We human beings have this movie reel spinning in our heads at all times. If a speaker doesn't give us imagery to work with, that movie reel keeps spinning in our head—only now it's spinning with the images we've created. That's what daydreaming is.' In what ways has the rise of remote work and virtual meetings affected the way people communicate? In addition to what many people now call 'Zoom fatigue,' McGowan talks about 'Zoomnesia.' That occurs when people attend a seemingly endless string of remote meetings in which they're sitting in the same room with the same potted plant on their desk and the same view out the window and with no contextual clues. That circumstance makes it even harder for people to retain information, and it underscores the value of well thought-out communication practices that engage people's thinking. McGowan frequently uses metaphors in his coaching. For example, he talks about what he calls the 'pasta sauce principle.' You put a pot of tomato sauce on the stove and cook it down for about three hours. You then have something with about half the volume but a lot more flavor. 'But it takes time and effort to get that reduction going,' McGowan says. 'The same is true for speaking.' It wouldn't be accurate to say McGowan has written a cookbook. But Speak, Memorably certainly provides the ingredients for welcome servings of appetizing communication. Whether you're giving a TED talk, speaking at the local Rotary Club, or just trying not to lose people in your Monday morning staff meeting, McGowan offers insight that will boost your communication mojo.