| The Type | What They're Famous For |
The Fancypants |  | Natural Habitat: Saks
How to Spot: She’s dressed to the nines and makes you feel like a schlub.
How to Approach: This species will always try to top you—so the best way to get respect is to stick to your own style. |
The Conservative |  | Natural Habitat: Church
How to Spot: Says a snide “I see,” when you talk, and makes you feel like a child.
How to Approach: You can argue, but it won’t get you far. Biting your tongue will save you some grief and get you home sooner. |
The Cool One |  | Natural Habitat: Her Volvo
How to Spot: She’s often hard to find since she has a very busy life of her own.
How to Approach: Don’t try too hard—once you spend enough time being yourself with her, she’ll be a good friend first, and a MIL second. |
The Generation Gapper |  | Natural Habitat: The kitchen
How to Spot: She speaks an entirely different language.
How to Approach: She still thinks her way is best, but she can also have some wisdom to impart. |
The HIppie |  | Natural Habitat: Self- help group or yoga mat
How to Spot: She’ll drop by unexpectedly.
How to Approach: You won’t get this species on your schedule or comfort level, but you can let her know some boundaries, like weekday walk-ins: off-limits but Sundays, okay. |
The M.I.L.F. Wannabe |  | Natural Habitat: The plastic surgeon or spa
How to Spot: She wants to be your BFF since you married her “mamma’s boy.”
How to Approach: This species is looking for a friend and some reassurance. Smile and help her feel important. |
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