October 2007 Archives

Q. I live in the Boston Area and I found a cute pair of peep toe shoes. I was wondering if it’s still ok to wear peep toe in the Fall?
-Hide and Seek Feet

A. This seems to be a very popular question lately, so let's settle it once and for all: yes, you can wear your peep toes well into Fall and colder weather . Wear your legs bare until the temperatures drop and you get goose bumps and then slide on opaque tights and wear your peep toes into November and even December if the peep toes are a full pump and cover your foot everywhere else. Just be sure to wear opaque tights and not sheer hosiery and tuck the seams of the tights under your toes so they don’t show through the “hole.”

Q. I am a 28 year old from India. I feel like I am stuck in a style rut. I am 5' 2" and weigh about 140. I have an extremely curvy body - slim waist and "big" everything else. I want to know what are the basics I should have in my wardrobe. I have never worn a skirt or a sleeveless top before because I feel I am too fat. I want to try out something new, but I am terribly confused.
-Body Discomfort

A. Your basics are similar to most women, regardless of their size. You need a pair of jeans (look for a boot cut style), white button down shirt, v-neck sweater, black pants, a coat that hits just above the knee, and heels and boots for Fall/Winter that have a medium size heel. Dress in more monochromatic colors - same or similar colors from head to toe - to elongate your look. Skip chunky and heavy jewelry. Avoid anything with ruffles and bows or thick sweaters that may add bulk. And skip skirts that hit mid-calf you’ll only look shorter. Look for tops that hit below your waistline and embrace vertical lines in tops and pants.

Make a point of shopping in petite departments of stores and seek out designers who offer petite sizes like Liz Claiborne, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Lands End, J. Crew, Petite Sophisticate and J. Jill.

Here are a few items to consider adding to your wardrobe:

1. Petite Donegal Tweed Military Jacket, $159 at lizclaiborne.com
2. Petite shawl collar sweater, $68 at bananarepublic.com
3. Petite Collection Silk Blend Box Pleat Skirt, $128 at lizclaiborne.com
4. Wear this skirt with opaque tights and solid pumps or knee high boots. It probably won’t be nearly as mini on you. You’re only 28 so don’t dress too old for your size yet. Petite animal-print skirt, $78 at bananarepublic.com

5. Add a cardigan to this dress for cooler temps. The wide shoulder “straps” will hide bra straps and give your better coverage. Petite Collection Embellished Voile Empire Dress, $298 at lizclaiborne.com
6. V-neck styles are the most flattering for busty gals. Petite floral faux-wrap dress, $128 at bananarepublic.com
7. Dare to bare your arms in this adorable dress that can work for day or evening. Petite lightweight wool A-line dress, $148 at bananarepublic.com
8. Petite feminine military coat, $228 at bananarepublic.com

Q. I love your column and thought you might have some ideas for me. I recently moved to Brooklyn and we are pretty much here to stay. We love the city and my husband and I are both in creative fields that have a lot of opportunities here. Problem is, I am in the process of changing careers into a creative field from a business one. Also, very soon I will be in school so funds will be limited. I am stunned by the kinds of clothes women wear in the city and how they can afford to have these amazing budgets, look totally unique and put together. I am almost reluctant to leave my house sometimes I feel so dingy. Any pointers on how to get out of this? A bit about myself - I am a confirmed minimalist, I have a lot of black and white in my closet, I have recently purchased some yellow and green tops but I am also trying to lose some weight so I can’t really go out and buy a huge wardrobe, maybe a few pieces that will last me through my last 10 lbs.
-Fitting In

A. Stop being a scaredy cat and get out and join the locals. Embrace your minimalist style and beef it up with accessories. Wear your black and white plus those new yellow and green pieces and pair them with a new pair of boots, colorful enamel bracelets, a printed scarf and a belt that has a cool buckle. You needn’t pay big bucks for all your new wardrobe pieces. True New York chic gals mix up a wardrobe with good quality classics, a vintage piece or two and certainly super trendy, cheap tops from H&M and Forever 21. Plus, make a few trips a year to Century 21, Loehmanns and TJ Maxx. We’re willing to take chances!

Take your black turtleneck sweater (which I’m sure you own) and pair it with wide leg denim trousers, a fitted jacket and high heeled boots. Pair your white button down with the same denim trousers and add a menswear vest and pumps. Take your turtleneck and wear with a black pencil skirt or A-line skirt and add a wide belt cinched at the waist. And when you’re ready to discover some new designers, stop by Bird in Brooklyn for cool labels like Lover and Karen Walker. The key is to stay comfortable and not overdone while trekking between school and your new creative infused job.

Q. I absolutely love your column on StyleBakery. Here's my situation: I work in an office with absolutely no dress code. People wear anything from flip flops and sweat pants to traditional business casual wear. I'm a 23 year old graphic designer, and one of the youngest ones here. As I try to advance in the company, I'd like my wardrobe to reflect that I'm professional and ambitious, and still be able fit in with the VP who wears golf skirts, or the Director who wears trousers and a button-down. Any ideas?
-Office Uncertainty

A. Sweat pants at work - really? Clearly that person would rather be home on the couch. Don’t follow that person's lead for wardrobe cues. You’re in a creative field where many have obviously taken liberties with no dress requirements. Avoid the influence of others' unfashionable wardrobes and make your workplace wardrobe consistently stylish with dark denim trousers, fitted jackets, cool sweaters, a sweater dress belted at the waist, wrap dresses or comfy jersey styles and add a tweed pair of pants as well. Looking good and getting the job done well will advance your career further than just getting the job done in sweats and flip flops.

Q. Do you have any recommendations for which stores or brands have great layering tees for fall clothes? I have seen a lot of examples of layering thin long sleeved shirts under dresses, sleeveless sweaters, vests, etc. Where can I find shirts thin enough that they won't bunch up under the other pieces?
-Tees Please

A. I’m with you on avoiding bulk this Fall/Winter. Layering is key and a great way to continue wearing some Summer pieces like sheer tops and dresses. Some of my favorites include J.Crew’s tissue thin or tops with stretch, Splendid, American Apparel, and C&C California. And thankfully many of these brands are cutting longer lengths to help give coverage when paired with lowrise pants.

1. Long-sleeve crewneck tissue tee, $32 at jcrew.com
2. Baby Rib 3/4 Sleeve Boat Neck, $21 at americanapparel.com
3. Sheer Rib 3/4 Sleeve V-Neck, $34 at americanapparel.com
4. C&C California Basic Long Sleeve Tee, $55 at bloomingdales.com
5. Stretch cotton solid turtleneck tissue tee, $29.50 at jcrew.com

Q. I am going to France with my girlfriends in November and trying to figure out what clothes to take with me that are comfortable for travel/exploring, but also fashionable enough that I don't feel like a total dork in France. And I need boots that are comfortable yet stylish and maybe the same standards for a pair of walking shoes? I am 24, so I do not have much money to spend.
-French Fashion

A. Well you certainly want to be fashionable, but not overdone. Stick to classics and you’ll be successful in fitting in with the French. Pack thin merino or cashmere turtleneck sweaters or v-necks to layer over button down shirts. Dark jeans, denim trousers, wool-lined pants like a nubby tweed pair and a dress that can easily transition from day to evening. Layer the dress with a sweater and wide belt for day and wear alone with great accessories at night. Add a fitted stylish blazer jacket, one that isn’t meant for a suit. Pack one solid colored coat for the whole trip with a hem that hits just above or a few inches below your knee so it will work with your entire packed wardrobe. If you choose to bring an additional outerwear piece, then go with a fab leather jacket.

Keep accessories simple—leather gloves, a pretty scarf and a wrap to wear with your dress at night if it’s chilly indoors. Pack a few fun jewelry pieces like an enamel bracelet, charm or beaded necklace and an oversized ring plus a few sets of varying size earrings. You’ll need a day bag with pockets inside to carry camera, credit cards, sunglasses, etc. and a clutch for evening. And certainly get ready to treat yourself to a few items over there. While the US dollar is not strong in France, a girl has got to do a little shopping when with girlfriends!

Here are a few suggestions for your feet that will look tres chic with just about anything you pack:

1. 'Edie' shearling-filled boot, $225 at bananarepublic.com
2. 'Stella' boot, $248 at bananarepublic.com
3. Kenneth Cole Reaction Make Love, $159 at piperlime.com

Simple, toned down “sneakers” for walking when you want to give your boots a rest. These work while athletic sneakers won’t do.

4. Poetic Licence Desert Star, $70 at piperlime.com
5. Cole Haan Air Kayden Sneaker, $152.06 at zappos.com
6. Cole Haan Air Keegan Slipon, $168.95 at zappos.com

Q. I really liked this velvet swing jacket I found on sale at alloy.com and the price was so great I clicked! After the fact, I wondered how I'm going to pull this look off considering I'm only 5'2" tall. Another factor is age. The jacket is obviously "youthful" which I do like, but I'm in my 40s, so I want to keep the look age appropriate.
-Grown Up

A. Give it a sophisticated kick by pairing it with a pencil skirt and opaque tights that perhaps have a slight pattern. Or pair with high-waisted or mid-rise trouser jeans and a soft, thin turtleneck sweater. For cooler days, wear a button down shirt with a v-neck sweater layered over it and add a narrow scarf that wraps around your neck several times. Since it’s velvet, you can dress it up with a beaded top and dress pants and finish it with dressy brocade heels. See, there are plenty of options for a 40ish gal to pull off this major sale item, now just go raid your closet or pull out your credit card and select a few of my picks:

1. Add a skinny belt across the waist and wear with a pencil skirt or trousers. Aqua Sweater with Bow Blouse, $78 at bloomingdales.com
2. Go preppy. Cashmere mini-argyle cardigan, $178 at jcrew.com
3. Dressy and hip when worn with the jacket. Yoana Baraschi Jewel Silk Top, $278 at nordstrom.com
4. Paired with the velvet jacket you get a color injection. Gibson Ruffled Washed Silk Blouse, $78 at nordstrom.com
5. Wear with a boot or pump that has a heel. Fire 'Hillary' Wide Leg Pants, $42 at nordstrom.com

Q. I have a black tie wedding in Chicago. Do I have to wear a long dress?
-Formal Fear

A. Black tie does not require wearing a long gown anymore , but the invite does expect you to wear a sophisticated, elegant and feminine dress. Think upscale cocktail dress, with a hem that hits around the knee or just below it. Skip animal prints, white dresses, mini lengths, chunky jewelry and your everyday handbag. Carry a clutch, put on your best jewelry that works with the dress, pull on your heels, walk with good posture and smile often.

Q. I love the new high rise jeans. The majority of those that I have found are trouser cut with wider legs. I live in my Minnetonkas, which look cute with the jeans, but living in Chicago, they aren't going to cut it in the winter. What type of shoes do you suggest I wear with them? 
-High Rise Wonder

A. The key is to keep the illusion of a long tall body even if you’re not model height. Make sure your wide leg, high-waisted trousers are hemmed at a length that doesn’t drag on the ground or cover your foot completely, even when wearing boots or shoes. Keep your tops fitted, wear thinner layering pieces or belt cardigans at your waist. Pair your new jeans with everything from heels and flats to boots. Of course, when you hem them, you’ll have to make a decision of which shoe you’ll wear most—flats or boots with a heel --since that will make the difference on the final length.

Seven for All Mankind Ginger Lightweight Mercer Trouser Jeans shown here with heels at the perfect length. $143 at tobi.com

Q. I am looking for a thin, fitted black turtleneck that I can purchase online. Can you help me find one?
-Slim Thin

A. The black turtleneck is one of those classic items you always want to refresh in your closet with a new one each year. With constant wear and perhaps fading, you can find plenty of options online to replace your old one. Look for thin silk or cashmere, merino wool or Lycra blends. You want to look for one that can be layered under sweaters and jackets without adding bulk and is stylish and chic enough to wear alone with dress pants or your favorite dark jeans.

1. Diane von Furstenberg Carlos Turtleneck, $100 at saks.com
2. Adam + Eve Ribbed Turtleneck, $72 at saks.com
3. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Zoe Jersey Turtleneck Sweater, $89.50 at bloomingdales.com
4. Cullen Ruched Turtleneck Sweater - Merino Blend, $59.50 at shop.com
5. Theory "Leola Stay" Novelty Turtleneck, $110 at bloomingdales.com

Q. My husband's Christmas party is a Hawaiian theme. What can I wear that doesn't make me look like a tourist? The idea of a boxy Hawaiian shirt is making me cringe. I'd like something that has a nice fit and style, as well as an outfit I could wear after the fact. I'm 5' 5" and a size 8, so I'm too heavy for spaghetti strap anything. It's the fall, I'm in the Midwest, and I'm having a hard time finding anything floral.
-Lucky Luau

A. It’s a tough time of year when you want flora and fauna to give the illusion of “I’m happy in Hawaii” and don’t want spaghetti straps on a dress. I say "dress" because it will be simplest to find a dress that has an ode to summer feel than a skirt or top with a summery design. And believe me, I tried. I found some dress solutions that will fit your size 8 frame and all you have to do is wear them with a halter style bra which is easy to find or buy one of those convertible multi-bras. Then add heels and have your husband buy you some flowers so you can put a blooming flower behind your ear or in your hair if you pin it up.

1. Adrianna Papell Floral Silk Halter Dress, $178 at nordstrom.com
2. Donna Ricco Sleeveless Double V-Neck Dress, $138 at nordstrom.com
3. Tiered Floral Halter Dresses, $85 at edressme.com
4. Lux Silk Embroidered Dress, $58 at urbanoutfitters.com

Q. I recently purchased these thin corduroy pants in a camel color because they make my legs look amazing. However, whenever I buy camel-colored anything I find myself at a loss for what colors to match the item with and, inevitably, it's left neglected in the closet. How do I prevent this from happening? I really want to wear these pants and maximize their potential.
- Camel-Confounded

A. Camel is a neutral that needs a pop of color or textured neutrals to give it life or it can end up draining color from your face and looking dull. When it comes to casual corduroys, you want to be comfy, cozy for Fall and Winter, but still show a stylish weekend wardrobe. Mix in colors, patterns and switch between layering thin pieces with wearing thicker sweaters. Add cool low-heeled boots and a light brown belt with a bigger buckle or extra detail.

1. Lux Geo Floral Kimono Top, $42 at urbanoutfitters.com
2. Free People Daisy Tie Sweater, $118 at urbanoutfitters.com
3. Emma Ruffle Top, $34.50 at delias.com
4. Paige Cowl Neck, $39.50 at delias.com

5. Precious Fairisle Henley, $128 at freepeople.com
6. Linea Pelle Caramel Stud Belt, $69 at singer22.com
7. Motif 56 Fina Braided Belt, $150 at shopbop.com

Q. I would like to invest in one or two pairs of high quality pants that will last me for years. Are there designers out there who make styles that won't look silly when altered for a short (and admittedly not tiny-hipped) person? I've never bothered to try on anything fancier than Banana Republic level because I assume they won't work for me, but I figured it was worth asking.
-College Alum

A. We all have our body “faults” no matter our size or shape that we can be a bit obsessive about or notice regularly. With that in mind and knowing all women think about their bodies, there is no reason why you shouldn’t have already tried on multiple designers to see how they cut and fit differently. I find that a way to lessen the stigma of curvy hips or butt is to find pants that have a wide band around the waist. It seems to minimize the area. I am a fan of Alice + Olivia pants for just that reason. I also like the new trouser jeans style and Anlo for their flattering fit for most body shapes.

Costly designers don’t always mean a better fit or fabric since some designers gain status and suddenly quality seems to go out the window. I would suggest trying Donna Karan as she is famous for cutting a slightly curvier fit. And choose boot cut or even a slightly wider leg to balance out the waist to foot proportions. Only consider wearing skinny jeans tucked into knee high boots paired with longer length tunic style tops or sweaters. Avoid pleats and straight vertical pockets on pant seams since they’ll just poof out. And if any pockets do poof out, then consider having them sewn closed.

Head to a good department store and enlist the help of a salesperson or, better yet, set up an appointment with the store’s personal shopper (it’s free). Tell her what you are searching for and let her do the work of finding you the right fit you’ll splurge on. She’ll pull the pants from various designers and you can get comfortable in the dressing room trying on multiple pairs until you hit clothing “gold.”

Q. Hi, I always read your articles and they are very informative and fun but I kind of have a problem myself this time. I am 22 years old and I often get mistaken for a 15 year old! It gets so frustrating when strangers tell you that you look like a baby. I wear a lot of flats, jeans, and tees but I do love classic-looking clothes, like my icon Audrey Hepburn. How can I possibly change my style to look my age? 
-22 Going on 15

A. Well, if you adore Audrey Hepburn, why not take some pointers from her style. It still works today. You don’t need a lot of money to age your look. Simply expand your wardrobe choices by keeping t-shirts for super casual days or pairing them with a fitted jacket this Fall. Other ideas to try:

• Wear dark denim jeans with a classic button down shirt, a belt that is a bit wider and has a stylish buckle and a jacket or a new moto leather jacket.

• Pair thin turtleneck or v-neck knit sweaters with slim pants and your dainty flats.

• Add a skinny patent belt at the waist and carry a clutch or shoulder bag that isn’t the bag you carry work stuff or gym stuff in.

• Go out and buy a dress. A little black dress that can be worn alone or add a sweater for warmth for a daytime look.

• Wear heels once in a while. The new platform heels give you height, but help you stand better.

• Add accessories like a chain link necklace or one with charms, dangly earrings for evening, a clutch that works for date nights.

• Wear your flats with opaque tights and a mini dress.

• Buy a pencil skirt and wear a top that has shine.

These are all minimal changes that can add style and age to your wardrobe. I guarantee you can find these pieces inexpensively. But most important is how you carry yourself when you wear these new or existing pieces. Walk with confidence, enjoy your clothes, experiment and add to the dress, a skirt, some heels and accessories and you’ll feel "chic and fancy".

Items that will up your age without making you look old:

1. Elizabeth Dress , $44.50 at delias.com
2. Lux Silk Snapfront Dress, $78 at urbanoutfitters.com
3. Flutter Dress, $118 at freepeople.com
4. New Dream sweater dress, $140 at jcrew.com

5. Superfine Tie up Henley, $108 at freepeople.com
6. Box Pleat Pencil Skirt, $78 at ardenb.com
7. Jacquard High Waist Skirt, $98 at ardenb.com
8. Tulle Cable Knit Cardigan, $48 at nordstrom.com

Q. I have searched the web trying to find out if summer skirts are ok to wear in the winter. Most of mine are silk and lace with very light colors and florals. Should you only wear darker skirts in winter and if summer skirts are ok what do you wear with them? I have heard that you should not wear knee high boots with a skirt and a short sleeve shirt? Is that a no no?
-Skirting the Issue

A. Best way to wear your summer skirts is to layer them with lightweight knits on top and opaque tights. However, lace, unless for evening, and your summery florals and light colors will generally only last until October when our Autumn fades to colder temperatures. Skirts for Winter aren’t always darker shades, but they are the appropriate fabrics to ward off chilly weather.

Q. I live in NYC and I am attending a 40th HS reunion on Nov. 1. My question is: Do I wear stockings with black suede peep toe shoes? I bought a stunning black and brown dress and the suede pumps have a bit of brown on the edge of the peep toe. Do I wear stockings? Do I wear tights? I do not think that the dress and shoes would look right with no stockings.
-Leg Show

A. We girls at StyleBakery, have been advising our stylish friends to wear opaque tights with peep toes this Fall. Just be sure to tuck the seam of the tights under your toes so they don’t show through the peep toe opening.

Q. I live in NJ and I am wondering if I can wear a pink suit in the fall?
-Pretty in Pink

A. Unless your suit is a lightweight wool or cashmere blend, then it’s time to break down the pieces and wear them as separates in the Fall. If it’s linen, then store until next Summer. Pair your jacket with grey or black pants or skirts - a pinstripe would be chic. When the temps dip add a black, cream or grey sweater as your layering piece underneath. Your pink pants or skirt is a little trickier, so pair it with neutral dark tones again like black, grey, even chocolate thin knit tops or suit jackets depending on the pink tone.

Q. I think ballet flats are super cute, however, my legs are short. I always wear heels because I feel frumpy with flats. Any suggestions on looking more chic?
-Steppin’ Out

A. There’s no reason you can’t embrace the ballet flat. You can’t live in heels 24/7 and flats are not only super cute, but some can be super comfy as well. Best way to create an elongated look is to wear your pants as long as possible without them dragging along the ground. And choose a flat that is more than just a solid leather. Go for patent or ornamentation, like a bejeweled pair, to give your outfit more sass. A stylish look will always beat out size and shape in overall judgement.

Q. Can linen be worn all year long, or is it just a summer fabric? If the linen is a dark color such as black, does this make a difference?
-Linen Leary

A. Linen is strictly a summer fabric no matter what the color . So wear it when the weatherman claims humidity is high and the temps are sweltering. Your only reason to keep it in your closet for winter is if you take a trip to the Caribbean, Bora Bora, Fiji or somewhere where it’s hot while the snow is falling in the States.

Q. I know that black patent shoes are big for fall. What type of hosiery should be paired with black patent shoes? It used to be considered a fashion faux pas to pair black tights or black hose with black patent leather shoes. Is this still the case?
-B&B

A. Where did you hear that fashion faux pas? I must have been too young to dress myself when that faux pas was discussed. Now that patent is such a huge trend for Fall and opaque tights are blazing a trail and finding space in everyone’s drawer, it’s time to enjoy your black patent with just about any color tight depending on what you’re wearing on the rest of your body.

When you want smooth, wear solid opaque tights; when you want edgy, choose a pattern or textured tight with your patent heels.

Q. Is it inappropriate for flower girls in a wedding to wear white shoes in December? And can grooms wear white shoes if their tuxes are white?
-White out

A. For flowers girls, pretty ballet flats or black or white patent leather Mary Janes are appropriate to wear for a wedding any time of the year. Now comes my hesitancy about white tuxes on men in December. I am not a fan of an all white tux on men anytime and definitely not white shoes with white tuxes.

When it comes to standard wedding attire requirements for men :

Formal Evening : A formal evening wedding usually means black tie. The groom and groomsmen wear black tuxedos with white or ivory shirts and black ties, cummerbunds or vests. It s totally appropriate to add some color into this outfit if you wish. Another option is to go the James Bond 007 route and choose white or ivory dinner jackets for a formal evening wedding.

Ultraformal Evening : When you expect everyone to show up in gowns. This is when men go white tie and it's reserved for the most elaborate evening weddings. The groom and groomsmen wear black tailcoats with white waistcoats or vests, wing-collared shirts and white bow ties. They can also wear fancy studs and cufflinks and their shoes are usually black patent leather. White or light colored suits are usually reserved for summer months and are worn in lighter fabrics like cotton and linen.

If you must have your white tuxedos, then have the men wear black cummerbunds and ties so they can wear black dress shoes.

Q. This may not be your bailiwick because it is a hybrid question that crosses over from style to relationship. I have been seeing a woman for about a year now. Due to the disparity in our ages (23 yrs.), I refuse to be involved more than just dating and am clear about my availability. When she travels, she always brings me a little something. I was in Santa Fe on business and brought her an inexpensive liquid silver necklace ($60). You would have thought that I brought her a 3k diamond. Now I need to get her something for her birthday (27th), I would like to get her something nice, preferably jewelry, but don't want to send any message other than I enjoy her company.
-Guy and Younger Girl

A. Having had romance, love, liars and cheats, I can take on the role of style and relationship expertise for your answer. I think your soon-to-be 27 year old has been sticking around believing and hoping that your “dating” has turned into more of a commitment. While you made it clear early in your dating that you did not want a relationship due to your age difference, she probably needs a refresher course. She’s probably a great girl who has treated you well and thinks of you often, as is obvious with her consistent gift giving. But it is apparent that you are only offering her morsels of attention when she deserves a full banquet.

Perhaps you give her a grand gift like sending her and a friend off on an all expense paid spa weekend (spafinder.com ) and let her know that you are setting her free to find someone closer in age that will give her a chance at true love, perhaps marriage, and maybe a family. A man that wants to travel the world with her or plant a garden and barbeque in the backyard they share. A weekend away with a friend will give her a chance to vent, release and relax without a bill at the end. She’ll walk away with clean skin, polished nails and a pampered body to start anew. Pair the gift with a heartfelt note about her best qualities and how lucky you have been to know her.

If you are direct with your “only dating on your availability” and she still chooses to stay, then I presume you’ve also made it clear that when a good man comes along and asks her on a date, she should go since you have a no-strings attached affair.

No spa grand gift? Don’t wimp out and buy a gift that carries no meaning or barely cost you a hundred bucks. Does she have a lovely apartment or home? Why not choose photographic artwork and have it framed to add décor to her home. Jewelry is always a safe and memorable gift, but this time, choose real gold in a style that is simple and sophisticated. Or how about a stunning pair of expensive heels that she’s been coveting but would never fork over the cash for. Get her an appointment with a personal shopper at a department store (it’s free) and give her a gift card for $500 or more bucks to spend with the help of the personal shopper so she can get the benefits of the shopper’s talents of finding what she wants in her size. As long as you are honest, your gift can be exuberant, lovely, and expressive in its meaning that you appreciate her.

Some of my favorites:

UNDER $200

1. Satya Jewelry aquamarine relief lotus necklace, $158 at satyajewelry.com
2. 18k Gold Circle Pendant, $150 at bluenile.com
3. Kevia Tulip Shaped Rococo Hoop Earrings, $138 at blueluxe.com

$200-$300

4. Tiffini Dooris Luna Necklace, $228 at tiffinidooris.com
5. Julie Sandlau Mint Crystal and Cubic Zirconia Circle Earrings, $224 at blueluxe.com
6. Julie Sandlau Champagne Zirconia Circular Chandelier Earrings, $211 at blueluxe.com

$300 & UP

5. Anna Beck Large Teardrop Pendant Necklace, $398 at nordstrom.com
6. Quinn's Tulip Small Disc Diamond Earrings, $413 at blueluxe.com
7. 18K Gold Ginko Leaf Pendants by DeanBurke, $300 at vivre.com

Q. Hi Alison, love your site! I am pregnant with twins and need to find a good maternity coat. Since I will only be wearing it for one season, I would ideally like to find one coat that I can wear to work (casual office), out to dinner and on weekends. Oh, and I don’t want to spend a fortune. Can you help?
-Baby on Board

A. So I took on this search for affordable maternity coats with full enthusiasm and after an hour passed, my search started losing steam. This is a niche market that has not been fully realized. Do maternity designers think when you get bigger you stay warmer? Even at 30 degrees? I checked countless sites and while the tops, bottoms and dresses are darling and numerous, the choices of coats seem very finite. So, while I have options, your search should be for empire, swing, and trapeze style coats with a hem that falls just above or below your knee to give you enough coverage over your belly and the opportunity to wear the coat with everything from jeans to skirts to dresses. And look for wool or wool blends for the most warmth. Keep the color neutral so it will match with more items in your wardrobe and you won’t feel like a walking preggers billboard. While I know you will have a big belly, you may wish to try on some regular style coats in a larger size in those same styles of empire, swing and trapeze to compare the hems and fit.

1. Tweed Coat, $325 at apeainthepod.com
2. long wool coat, $148 at mimimaternity.com
3. LL Collezioni Baby Doll Swing Coat, $299 at bloomingdales.com
4. wool cashmere coat, $295 at destinationmaternity.com

5. Maternity Frost Free Belted Anorak, $78 at oldnavy.com
6. Wool wrap coat, $125 at gap.com
7. Gallery Wool Blend Trapeze Coat, $168 at nordstrom.com
8. wool dressmaker coat, $69.98 at motherhood.com
9. double-breasted long coat, $158 at mimimaternity.com