September 2007 Archives

Q. I am a bridesmaid in an upcoming beach wedding that the chosen colors are fuschia and turquoise. I have to say, the bride picked out a hot little fuschia halter dress for the bridesmaid dresses. But, my dilemma is the shoes and the jewelry. First of all, what color shoes would you suggest? I’m thinking more of a silver sandal or very low heel. Second of all, they just sent the picture of the jewelry (see attached) and the turquoise large teardrop pendant and earrings are supposed to be for me. Is it just me, or is this a hideous ensemble?

-Jewelry Uncertain

A. Not loving the jewelry choices, especially the “rough” cut combination. Without seeing the dress, it’s difficult to choose many options for you that may work for the dress. I am not a fan of wearing matching earrings and necklace. I think it’s boring and skips an opportunity to express your style and take a chance. I do not know how many bridesmaids are in the wedding party, but as I’ve said in past Ask Alison columns, I am not in favor of making the bridesmaids into paper cut-outs and dressing them the same from head to toe . It can become costly to the bridesmaids to buy the dress, the jewelry, the shoes, etc. that are the choices of the bride. Unless the bridesmaids are clueless about style, I believe in letting them make a few choices in their attire, whether it be shoes, jewelry or both. And, of course, with the help of digital cameras and computers, friends can send photos to the bride to let her know what they intend to pair with the dress to get final approval.

With that in mind, I would suggest keeping jewelry delicate for a beach wedding. A thin silver or gold necklace with a charm or small bead would be lovely - and then add earrings. As for your feet, keep to flat silver or gold sandals since you’ll be in the sand. If the reception moves indoors or to a real dance floor, you can bring along heels to slip into.

some beachy suggestions:

1. Lisa Goodwin Wishful Linking Necklace Chalcedony/Optimism, $85 at maxandchloe.com
2. Lisa Stewart Hoop Earrings with Wrapped Turquoise, $180 at maxandchloe.com
3. Allison Daniel Large Starfish Necklace, $8 at allisondanieldesigns.com

4. Haley M Endless Pearl Hoops, $55 at haleym.com
5. Zoe Chicco Silver Wishbone Necklace, $75 at maxandchloe.com

Q. What a fantastic site! I’m attending a friend's engagement party in late Oct. It will be held in the afternoon at a country club. I was planning to wear a shawl collared white shirt with a wrap tie (new at Ann Taylor), a black pencil skirt with some small pleats in the back and some awesome Stuart Weitzman peep toe pumps in a deep red/burgundy patent leather. My sister tells me I would look like the staff and I shouldn’t wear the black and white. Help? I thought I could pull it off with killer shoes! BLACK AND WHITE?
-Non-Staff

A. You can definitely pull it off with killer heels and add a multi strand or chunky stand out necklace or a big cuff to add to the punch of the outfit.

1. CC Skye Enamel Cuff Bracelet, $202 at pinkmascara.com
2. Mod hammered cuff, $32 at bananarepublic.com
3. Resin pyramid bangle, $24 at bananarepublic.com
4. Circle link necklace, $38 at bananarepublic.com
5. Floral triple-strand necklace, $88 at bananarepublic.com

Q. My weight has gone up & down over the years, so as you can imagine finding clothes that fit is a problem. However, I have recently joined a gym as I am determined to lose 35 lbs. In addition to joining, I have a personal trainer for the next three months. It wasn't so hard to find my workout clothes & sports bras, but my bottom is a challenge. I have always used "Barely There" intimates, but since I have a belly & have gained weight, they really don't support it.

I have two questions: What kind of panties are best for working out? How can I find a perfect fit that will also be comfortable for everyday wear?
-Losin’ It

A. High five to you for your determination to lose the weight! Look for a higher cut brief or thong in a microfiber fabric to help wick away moisture and help flatten your tummy. Skip shapewear pieces when you’re working out so you can focus on pulling in your tummy all on your own and be comfortable. These panties can also be worn under your everyday clothes:

1. Moving Comfort Micro Thong, $15 at activasports.com
2. Moving Comfort Seamless Thong, $15 at activasports.com
3. Speed Boy Short, $17.99 at underarmour.com (Check out other styles from underarmour.com for panties that wick moisture and offer an abrasion, rub free workout.)

4. Warner's Without A Stitch Hi-Cut Brief, $7.60 at barenecessities.com
5. Jockey No Panty Line Promise Hip Brief, $8.50 at barenecessities.com
6. Barelythere Flawless Fit Microfiber Hi-Cut Brief, $7.20 at barenecessities.com

Q. I bought a new pair of gray pants to wear this winter, but I'm not sure what color tops I can wear with them. I tend to look better in warmer colors, but is it okay to pair yellow undertones with the cool of gray? What will look best with the pants without washing me out?
-Gray Lady

A. Get your gray on with a multitude of colors. I find that gray and brown bottoms lead to a richer mix of styles and colors than your basic black. Gray and brown can be a canvas while black can sometimes just be a backdrop; a color you settle for when you don’t want to take a chance. Gray can look lovely and feminine with pink, lavender, yellow and baby blue and rich with burgundy, olive and hunter green. Paired with teal it can add a bit of color to your face, while a navy pairing looks sophisticated. Since the gray is on your bottom half, you really needn't concern yourself with looking washed out. Choose top colors that enhance your skin tone and have a flattering fit.

Here are some pretty tops to pair with your gray bottoms:

1. Emma Ruffle Top , $34.50 at delias.com
2. Lux Daydream Blouse, $29.95 at urbanoutfitters.com
3. Deity Satin Blouse, $48 at urbanoutfitters.com

4. Laundry by Shelli Segal Washed Silk Wrap Blouse, $195 at nordstrom.com
5. Walter Leopard Chiffon Blouse, $143 at nordstrom.com
6. Semantiks Printed Silk Blouse, $78 at nordstrom.com

Q. There is a question in a magazine that asks: what do you always wear underneath a body-skimming dress? They list four choices, from which one should be selected. They all make sense to me depending upon the dress. Which is the one that should always be worn? The answers to choose from are: thigh-shrinking hosiery; curve-accentuating bra; derriere-lifting underwear; tummy-flattening shape wear. If you have an opinion, I would love to hear it.
-Baffled by Choices

A. I don’t know what the magazine answer was, but nobody has the same body so there is no one correct answer. One or several can apply depending on the fit, and of course how you want to look in the dress. While some of us may seek cleavage, others will want to look as slim and smooth as possible. Don’t let a Q & A intimidate you, just aspire to look and feel good in your clothes.

For specific tips on what to wear under your clothes, check out our style recipe Underneath It All .

Q. I'm a preschool teacher and 40 something mom. But I like to be hip and trendy. I need ideas to wear to work while it is still warm. I can't bear wearing tennis shoes and capris like all the other teachers. We can't wear jeans or shorts, and most of my heels won't work on the wood chipped playground. Any ideas? I've got fall covered with tights, boots, flats, and dresses, but it's this in-between hot and cold season that has me stumped.
-Still Warm in Kansas

A. Well, you certainly already own the flats that can be worn now, so slip into them. As for bottoms, you can wear cotton pants instead of jeans or shorts and how about some knee length skirts with lightweight cotton tops. And when it gets a little chillier just add a thin jacket or cardigan for recess.

Here are a few layered looks to take you through the fall:

1. Lilah shirt in satin-stripe floral, $98 at jcrew.com
2. Solid deep V-neck vest, $39.99 at jcrew.com
3. Sophie peacoat sweater, $148 at jcrew.com
4. Favorite-fit stretch vintage trouser cords, $79.50 at jcrew.com

Layer a button down top under this striped hoodie and add the fleece peacoat for chillier days on the playground .

1. Striped scoopneck waffle hoodie, $26.50 at gap.com
2. Fleece trapeze coat, $59.50 at gap.com
3. Khaki striped wide leg pants, $59.50 at gap.com

1. BCBGMAXAZRIA Empire Poplin Shirt, $138 at nordstrom.com
2. Womyn 'Olivia' Stretch Twill Pants, $154 at nordstrom.com

Q. I have had this argument with my boyfriend for months! Once and for all, can you confirm or dismiss that it is stylish to wear red pumps/flats/wedges with navy clothing? Thank you, you settling this may have saved a relationship!!
-Ending Argument

A. Your relationship must be a breeze if you only bicker about style. But deary, a debate like this one lasting for months? Tsk, tsk. Once and for all, feel free to wear navy and red together. Navy is one of the hardest hues to match so it gives stylish gals the license to wear navy with red, green, burgundy, brown and more. Color always adds sass to an outfit.

Q. I have an 18” string of pearls that I received for my wedding. I used to wear them to dressier events and functions, but my style has changed and evolved over the years. I am mostly in casual, daytime situations with children and other moms and work part time from home in a creative profession. I would love to wear my pearls again, but no longer just for special occasions. How can I make them more of an everyday, hip accessory?
-Pearlized

A. Unfortunately, an 18” string of pearls is never going to be considered hip. It will forever be in the sophisticated, classic category - and there's nothing wrong with that. Multiple strands piled on are tres chic a la Coco Chanel, and one strand worn with your button down shirt is the ultimate in country club prep style. Simply put, pull out your pearls and put them on with your cute tops, button downs and your favorite jeans whether you’re running after the kids, working or headed to a movie. Make the pearls “your thing” to wear, and if you want hip, add a patent leather bag to your wardrobe.

Q. I've always been confused about the "unofficial" end of Summer, Labor Day, and the "official" end of Summer, Sept. 22nd. Do I put away all my lightweight summer whites and tropical prints and straw accessories at the beginning of the month, or can I wear them for a few more weeks? Also, what about my big white leather handbag and short off-white trench? Have these things run their course? I live in San Francisco where the warmest months of the year are generally September and October.
-Warmed Up

A. For every stylish girl, it really depends on where in the country they live. We New Yorkers have still been sporting white cotton skirts and dresses since the temperatures are hovering in the 80s. If you live in a city that’s succumbing to serious heat and humidity, you get a free pass to continue wearing cotton whites. And by the official end of summer, you can then pack away your tropical prints, espadrilles and straw accessories. As a San Fran resident, you can carry your handbag a little longer and as for your trench, pair it with darker colors like black and navy to give it a sophisticated look and extend the length of wearing it into Fall when afternoons and evenings turn chilly.

Q. Is it still not fashionable to wear white after Labor Day?
-Wear White

A. Take notes, ladies. Once and for all, you can wear white all year long . Wear your cotton whites until the official end of summer in late September, and in very warm locales you can stretch it even further past that date. When the weather turns chilly, pair your white jeans with dark hued tops and turtlenecks. White jeans, a black cashmere sweater and boots worn with a trench looks super chic. Designer Michael Kors has been telling women for years to keep their white jeans accessible all year long. And once it's cold enough that you need a jacket everyday, then turn to your “Winter” whites of wool, wool blends, cords or cashmere jackets, pants and sweaters.

Here are some winter-appropriate whites:

1. Scooter Brown Babydoll Jacket, $110 at nordstrom.com
2. Pleated Back Funnel Neck Coat, $248 at bloomingdales.com
3. Cashmere turtleneck sweater, $148 at jcrew.com

4. Design History Bobble Stitch Cardigan, $158 at nordstrom.com
5. Beth Bowley Long Wool Cardigan, $242 at nordstrom.com
6. Favorite-fit stretch vintage trouser cords, $79.50 at jcrew.com

Q. I am quite small on top (just under b-cup) and I'm in a wedding in September. Bridesmaids will be wearing long black strapless satin gowns. I have always had trouble keeping strapless dresses up without puffing out my chest all night, and even when they are tailored just for me they still seem to fall down eventually or keep me pulling and adjusting constantly. I'm wondering if there is some kind of bra or chicken cutlet type insert that will keep my dress up and as a bonus make me look like I have more in that department as well. Many thanks!
-B-cup Bridesmaid

A. I know your annoyance first hand. I still remember raising my hands while dancing at my prom and my dress dropped down for a quick expose. Thankfully, I was speedy with my hands and no one noticed, but what a drag it can be to fidget all night.

Due to many past dress adjustments I went searching for the best strapless bras. I found three styles that work for me:

* One from Victoria's Secret that doesn t give me any extra in the breast department, but stays in place

* For a little "somethin' somethin'" I always reach for my Wonderbra strapless that stays in place and gives me sudden cleavage. It has built in side padding to create lift and cleavage and the interior of the bra "sticks" better to your body.

* A third option for coverage is an adhesive bra from Fashion Forms that basically sticks "chicken cutlets" onto your breasts for strapless coverage and adds a little more to your cup sie.

While you say a bra is not necessarily the answer, you may want to ask a tailor to sew a bra into the dress to help keep it up . There are also adhesive bands just like those on strapless bras that can be sewn into the top band of the dress to help stick it to your body. My other suggestion is to get matching fabric to the dress, and with the bride's blessing, have thin spaghetti straps added to the the dress to avoid your impending concerns. Just be sure the fabric matches and it doesn’t diminish the style of the dress.

Q. I am a 20 year old going to study abroad in Italy next semester, and I will need a super warm and hopefully a very stylish coat. I like the look of Urban Outfitters and the juniors clothing at Nordstrom. Is there anywhere I could get a nice coat for around $200? I stumbled across your website a few days ago while doing some Google searches in my pursuit of a coat. I am completely amazed!
-Coat Pursuit

A. You’ll have to be quite savvy in your choice when you require one coat at an affordable price for a fashion-oriented country. For a semester abroad in one of the most stylish countries on earth, you’ll need a versatile coat that moves fluidly from day to evening, from jeans to skirts. Wool is your best option for warmth and style. If you need more warmth than these coats provide, layer up underneath. You can even add a cool wide belt with some of these coats to change up the look:

1. GUESS? Sculpted Coat, $148 at nordstrom.com
2. GUESS by Marciano Wool Blend Military Coat, $168 at nordstrom.com
3. Esprit Snap-Front Coat With Hood, $177.75 (sale) at macys.com
4. Lux Double Breasted Peacoat, $125 at urbanoutfitters.com

Q. I'm about to move to New York City and have been pondering what boots would be good to get for fall and winter. I need something practical (that I can walk in for long distances, possibly in inclement weather) but stylish. I've liked the flat knee-high boots with rows of buttons that I've seen around occasionally. Any advice on where to get a solid pair for preferably under $200 dollars?
-Concerned Pedestrian

A. A high heel just won’t do for trudging around the city, whether it’s sunny or streets filled with slushy snow. Keep to a low heel or flat, buy a few pairs of cashmere blend socks to keep your feet warm and slip on a knee high pair of leather boots like the options below for under $200. If you plan to only buy one pair of boots for a New York winter, then skip trendy looks and stick with a pair that will work with many items in your wardrobe. These are cool enough for the whole boot to be seen so whether you wear your new wide length trousers over the boot or tuck your jeans or cords into the boot, these pairs are made for all day trekkin’:

1. Aerosoles 'Override', $144 at aerosoles.com
2. Kenneth Cole Reaction Buddha Lug, $199.99 at shoes.com
3. Timberland Merevesi Tall Boot, $199.99 at shoes.com

4. Naturalizer 'Sidney', $105.99 at shoes.com
5. Nine West Orabella, $136.20 at zappos.com
6. Sudini 'Throttle' Boot, $199.95 at nordstrom.com

Q. I am sure the answer is probably somewhere in your column but I can’t find it. I bought some really cute ballet flats. My dilemma is, what to do when it gets colder? I live in Colorado. Can I wear light socks with them? I wear jeans most of the time. And should I match the shoes or wear a contrasting color? I don’t want to look like a fashion disaster.
-Happy Feet

A. You can wear your ballet flats all year long when you add a little coverage to keep your feet warm. Avoid bulky knit socks and opt for opaque tights or knee high trouser socks that are thinner and in the same color hue as your flats. If you wear your ballet flats with a skirt or dress, you can go for the monochromatic look and match tights to flats for a long, lean look or go for a spunky, young look and choose a color to offset the skirt and flats.

Q. I'm attending a formal evening wedding this September in Southern California. I've found this black strapless dress (with tiny gold polka-dots on it, a black sash that ties on the side of the waist, and it falls just below my knees). What do you think about a 3-strand necklace of chunky gold (not shiny) beads -- it falls almost to the top of the dress. They make quite the statement, because of their size, but my friends seem to think they look fabulous! Still, I'd like your input, especially with pairing the gold necklace with gold heels. Speaking of which, what do you think about some great gold heels? I am afraid of being too matchy-matchy with the gold, but I can't imagine wearing black heels. Won't that look like potential funeral attire?
-Dress Wear

A. I do say go for the gold regarding your heels, but be sure the gold multi strand necklace doesn’t make the outfit look too '80s. Put the complete outfit on and get a second opinion, since it is a formal affair you want to also make sure you look classy and sophisticated. Confidence in your clothes makes up for at least 50% of your wardrobe successes, so if you love it then wear it!

Q. I'm 5'1 and curvy at around 125 lbs. I know that for petite women, wide leg denim is a no-no, but I wanted to know if there are any exceptions to this rule. I love the way it looks. Is it possible for me to wear wide leg/low rise wide waistband jeans if I get them on the longer side (tailored) and I also wear heels with them? By the way- I do have saddlebags.
-Curvy Frame

A. Depending on how wide the jeans are, you may be able to pull off the look. Super wide may be too much for your height to carry, but a little width (like in the pair shown here from bananarepublic.com ) can help balance out hips and saddlebags. The key is to choose pants that have the right placement of pockets and the wide waistband will help minimize the butt and tummy area. And definitely keep them on the longish side and wear with heels or heeled boots to help elongate your legs. Be sure to take a good look in the mirror - you'll know if the style works for you.

Q. I've had this really simple question for years: my body is slim with basically no boobs at all. I usually go for the Wonderbra for a little help, but when I've worn a dress or a summer shirt with no bra, many people have told me it looks great and that someone with my complexion can get away with the no-boobs look. So, what do you think, should I stop wearing a bra? Or is it a terrible style sin? By the way, I’m a 22 year old university student.
-Small Chested

A. I’m all for the freedom of going sans bra when you are small chested or as you say, “no boobs at all” when it comes to wearing a halter top, tube top, sundress and those lazy days when you want to be super comfortable. It’s good to have the option of going without or getting a little or a lot of help from a Wonderbra. Just be sure the tops aren’t see-through and consider getting gel petals for a smooth look when you don’t want to wear a bra.

Q. I am attending a close friend's evening wedding in late October. I have chosen a deep turquoise strapless bubble hem dress for the event. I am, however, unsure how to style this for a cool fall evening. Should I wear tights and heels? What kind of cover-up should I wear?
-Wear With What

A. For a wedding, many of us will brave the chilly temps to wear great heels and bare a little leg for evening. You will be inside 98% of the time so you can still wear your favorite peep toes or even a strappy if that’s what looks best with the dress. For weddings, I advise skipping a wedge heel since they hamper a girl that likes to do a lot of dancing.

If you are concerned that your legs will have a permanent case of goose bumps, then wear sheer hosiery in a color that matches either your heels or the dress. Although turquoise sheer hosiery may be too ”Versace-like” for the wedding crowd. As for the cover-up, you’ll need a jacket to cover you from car to ceremony and ceremony to reception. A trench, ¾ length light coat or even a cropped jacket will do. When indoors, if you get a little chill, look for a lightweight wrap like one from Love Quotes . It will keep your look feminine and pretty whereas a wool wrap in October may look heavy.

Q. I am sending this question for my boss. She is wearing a mid minidress and she wants to know the correct heels to wear with it. Also, what is the lowest heel height to the maximum height that is appropriate?
-Heel Height

A. With a mini, there are plenty of options: she can wear ballet flats for a Mia Farrow in “Rosemary’s Baby” young look; or pair knee high slim boots with opaque tights; or wear peep-toes or high heels for an evening out look. If she is petite (5’3” or shorter), I would advise that she avoid heel heights over 3 inches since it will look like she’s grasping for height with a stiletto. But generally, her heel choices will depend on what her activity is or where she'll be going in her dress. The more casual the plan, the lower the heel height.

Q. I recently began a new job that requires me to wear suits to work every day. Since colder weather will be approaching soon, I'm wondering what kind of a jacket is a good fit to wear on top of my suits. All of my present jackets are too small to fit over the rather bulky layers that the suit creates.
-Suit Cover

A. You’re looking for a true Fall/Winter coat that is meant to protect your clothing. If you intend to wear pantsuits and some skirt suits five days a week, you’ll need a coat that falls past your hips to cover the suit jacket. A trench is a great option if you choose one with a zip or button-in lining. Although a trench, even with a lining, will not keep you very warm in the middle of winter if you intend to be outside often.

Also look for coats with a slight A-line cut to give you more room and choose one that is a size larger than your clothing since you are covering more bulk than just your body. Best chances of finding the right coat to fit over your suit is to do some shopping with your suit jacket in hand. Fall jackets are usually lightweight wool or leather and meant for wearing over tops and thin sweaters.

Some suggestions:

1. Double-faced wool Bella coat, $350 at jcrew.com
2. Camelhair Walker, $400 at bloomingdales.com
3. Kenneth Cole REACTION Extended-Tab Coat, $219 at macys.com

4. Larry Levine Double-Breasted Walker Coat, $217.50 at macys.com
5. London Fog Trapeze Balmacaan, $198 at nordstrom.com
6. London Fog Long Trench Coat with Liner, $158 at nordstrom.com