December 2007 Archives

Q. I'm 5'1" and have just recently bought 2 pairs of knee high boots online that I absolutely adore. But because of my petite build, I have the following problems: one boot is too loose at the very top of the boot around my knee so it mimicks rain galoshes; the second is so tall it reaches an inch above the bottom of my knee. The first boot is leather, the second is suede. I know you can take boots to the cobbler to have them stretched, but can u also have boots taken in and shortened? I would hate to return these shoes.
-Boot Strapped

A. I’m 5’5” and the boot gap around the calf is not just a petite problem. It seems women are evenly divided between their search for boots that fit slender calves and those for larger calves. I always start my search early in the season lest boots go on sale and my options are significantly diminished if they don’t have my size. I quickly get fatigued and disappointed going from store to store so I search the internet. I am a huge fan of zappos.com and piperlime.com for their detailed information on boots including height, circumference or diameter of the top opening. I measure the largest part of my calf and then go shopping.

For a dressy pair, I look for suede pull-on styles that have a bit of stretch so it hugs my calf better. For casual styles, I look for details that list the smallest top opening and of course I purchase several pairs from sites that offer free shipping and returns. Why trudge through the mall or around the city when options can be delivered to my door?

For help when you’ve bought the boots you love, but need a bit of tailoring, you need a shoe doctor - a shoe repair person who specializes in leather goods. This may be the same person who tends to leather coats and handbags. Ask your local shoe repair guy for a referral. He may be able to do the job, but be sure he knows what he’s doing and has done this kind of work before. Consider asking a few leather/shoe repair specialists before you hand over your new boots.

You’ll find these boots in my closet. I adore them both:

1. I’m loving these boots for casual days with jeans or a skirt. Bonus: they’re waterproof. Aquatalia by Marvin K. Ranch, $375 at piperlime.com
2. Pricey, but I take care of them. Stuart Weitzman Diamondback, $499 at zappos.com

Q. I need to find an attractive yet durable gym bag that mimics a zip tote. Something that's reminiscent of Longchamps style is preferred.
-Active Tote

A. Why not carry a Longchamps bag? It’s the style you’re longing for and it will carry your athletic gear in classic style. Gym bags don’t necessarily come cheap and you obviously want a bag that is simple in style and won’t compete with your handbag or coat. I found multiple styles, many of which come in several color choices to pair with any other bags you may be lugging:

1. Longchamp Small Nylon Foldable Tote, $115 at saks.com
2. LeSportsac Small Travel Tote, $68 at bloomingdales.com
3. Kenneth Cole Reaction "Sportster" Tote, $38.25 (sale) at macys.com
4. unXpected Hobo Tote LX, $49.99 at ebags.com
5. Sherpani Meta, $75 at ebags.com
6. Pinnacle Club Sports Bag, $203.95 at zappos.com
7. PUMA Fitness Sports Bag, $55.95 at zappos.com
8. Lug Chocolate Puddle Jumper Gym Bag, $72 at sleepyheads.com

Q. I'm such a huge fan of your website, please keep up the fantastic work! I was wondering where I could find a classic checkered houndstooth coat very similar to the one Charlotte had in season six of Sex and the City. Most of the ones I see are modern variations of it, and I'd like a classic look.

A. While I am a big fan of Sex and the City , have seen the whole series and watch the reruns late night, I don’t know exactly which coat you are describing. I still went in search of a range of classic wool houndstooth coats that may appeal to you:

1. Plaid Winter Wool Coat, $99 at shop.com
2. Cynthia Steffe Houndstooth Trench, $210 at bloomingdales.com
3. Charles Gray Belt Front Coat, $290 at nordstrom.com
4. ABS by Allen Schwartz Plaid Trapeze Coat, $407 at nordstrom.com
5. Mackage Wool Houndstooth Capelet, $357.90 at nordstrom.com

6. Soia & Kyo Billy Plaid Coat, $350 at tobi.com

Q. I am attending a Business Holiday party. I do not want to wear a dress. The party is at a very nice house with about 80 people and the dress code is holiday casual. I have a black velvet sport coat, black velvet trouser pants and black open toed patent leather heals and a red patent leather clutch to carry but I am not sure what blouse to wear, I somewhat like to look sexy but not sleazy any suggestions.
-Festive Fun

A. Sounds like you have a festive holiday outfit to wear to the party. So all you need is a slightly sexy top that works with your velvet ensemble and red clutch. I’ve found multiple tops that have shine, sheen, sex appeal and are attractive all on their own if you choose to take your velvet jacket off and get jiggy with it.

1. Ruffle Front Empire Blouse, $58 at ardenb.com
2. Plaid Tube, $39 at ardenb.com
3. Silk braided halter top, $78 at bananarepublic.com
4. Solid silk Elizabeth halter, $88 at jcrew.com
5. Alice & Olivia Beaded V Neck Top, $297 at pinkmascara.com

Q. I just discovered your website and love it... My question is: I'm attending a black tie affair with my husband in January. I have purchased a long, strapless, satin black dress from Ann Taylor that I love for this evening event. We live in a very cold area- what kind of coat should I wear? I have several long, wool coats (one is a pea coat, another is plain) but they seem too casual. I won't wear fur. Also, what length should the coat be?

-Coat Cover

A. I admit sometimes I have sacrificed warmth in order to wear the shoes or dress that’s best for the occasion. I figure, I’m going from the car or cab straight to the event. And I walk quite fast so even if I had to park a car, I can be quick to get into the destination. That said, it doesn’t mean I enter looking like a schlub. I choose the best jacket or coat that works with my outfit. So say something nice to your husband and perhaps he’ll drop you at the door of the party while he parks the car and say thank you a few extra times. It’s hard to find a long enough coat to work with a formal gown and even if you bought one, I don’t know if you’d wear it enough to be worth the investment. So look for a dressier style coat whether long or short to pair with your gown and pretty gloves and scarf if needed.

1. Tulle Funnel Neck Coat, $78 at nordstrom.com
2. Kristen Blake Fluted Sleeve Coat, $248 at nordstrom.com
3. Mackage Cape, $369.99 at bloomingdales.com
4. INC International Concepts® Double-Breasted Empire-Waist Coat, $74.81 at macys.com
5. Juicy Couture Faux Fur Swing Coat, $448 at saks.com

Q. I love Ask Alison! I have a question for you. I recently saw a photo montage of Jessica Simpson wearing Miss Dior nude pumps ($515 at eluxury.com ). They're completely out of my budget. Some additional options were offered, such as the Laboutin pumps, but they're in the same price range. Additionally, the Laboutin heels are almost 5". Not something most of us can wear! Do you have suggestions for some reasonably priced nude pumps with a 3" heel?
-In the Nude

A. No need to fret! I found plenty of more affordable options that won't put you in credit card debt. So slip into a pair of these sophisticated nude peep toes:

1. Bronx Cynthia Pump, $54.99 at shoes.com
2. Moda Spana Una, $88.95 at zappos.com
3. LifeStride Allie, $48.95 at zappos.com
4. Enzo Angiolini Women's Jalene Platform Peep Toe Pump, $88.95 at endless.com
5. Stuart Weitzman Sashay, $280 at zappos.com

Q. I really like the look of tucking my jeans into my boots. However, whenever I try to do this I think it just looks wrong. I feel like I always end up with a bulge from the jeans (even with my skinny jeans). Is there a correct way to get the look? Also what boot do you recommend to achieve this look?
-Baggy Knees

A. We all have that same issue. Usually it’s easier with skinny jeans, but the moment we sit down and get comfortable the jeans start rising in our boots and suddenly it’s baggy jean syndrome when we stand. An old school trick that comes from the horsey set is to attach stretch clips under you foot to either side of your jeans to hold them down when you sit down or move around. It’s a way to get the look that comes from breeches without looking like a throwback from the '80s. Check out doversaddlery.com for pant clips.

Q. Can I carry a black patent leather handbag in the winter? My mother said only in the Spring.
-Uncertain

A. Where have you and your mother been hangin’? Have you not had access to magazines, TV or walked in a department store lately? I’m not trying to be harsh, but patent leather has saturated the runways, magazines and is available in some form or fashion in just about every store. So let your mom know what the old rules no longer apply and you can sport your black patent leather bag all year long .

Q. I love your website- and especially love reading your advice. So here's my question for you: I will be traveling to Iceland in May. During this trip I will also be traveling to England, Scotland and Ireland. Can you recommend what to pack for such diverse climates, an easily totable bag since I will be frequently on the move, and a stylish jacket that will keep the wind out and keep me warm without looking like the marshmallow man? I'm in my early 30s-and certainly do not want to look like a tourist! 
-Don't want to pack a million bags

A. I’ve been to all of these countries and I can attest to a need for a coat in all four, though you will need more protection in Iceland. I visited Iceland several years ago during the month of July when they had finally cut a path through the snow up to the ice covered lands and glaciers. If you stay in Reykjavik, you can get away with a warm wool or cashmere blend coat and warm layers. Stick to a 3/4 length coat that hits just above or below your knees so your butt is covered for more warmth. Cashmere or wool blend knee socks, thin layers that insulate like silk long underwear, tights and cashmere turtleneck sweaters are a must to pack.

For the European countries, you’ll get a chance to enjoy Spring. Bring a small umbrella (there’s a reason it’s so green, it rains for short periods often.) The coat design should be simple so it matches more of your wardrobe and can be worn open in warmer temps. Keep it out of your bag so you have more room for clothes and toiletries. Pack only essential toiletries. Wear your boots or sneakers on the plane so you again save room in your bag. A blazer style jacket or short thin trench can work double duty as an indoor jacket when worn with a t-shirt or button down and as outerwear when layered with a sweater underneath.

Here are some coat options including a parka with a zip out lining to help you temperature adjust:

1. DKNY Coats Double Breasted Wool Coat, $209.98 at bloomingdales.com
2. Steve Madden Metallic City Parka with Removable Liner, $148 at nordstrom.com
3. Larry Levine Single-Breasted Coat, $141 (sale) at macys.com
4. Kenneth Cole Notch-Collar Trench Coat, $255 (sale) at macys.com

I’m assuming since you’re looking for a totable bag, you plan to do some laundry along the way since you’ll be visiting so many places. Here are some options:

5. Gloria Vanderbilt Luggage Lightweight 21" Expandable Carry-On Rolling Upright, $59.99 at ebags.com
6. Filson Extra Large Outfitter Bag, $365 at ebags.com
7. A. Saks EXPANDABLE 21" Expandable Carry On, $59.95 at ebags.com

Q. Can you give me a few ideas of current fashion trends that work for those who are short-waisted? I've heard that wrap sweaters and dresses are good choices. How about wearing longer tops, or using one of the many options for wearing belts?
-Lost on Length

A. To start with, avoid this season's high-waisted pants. Instead, choose pants and skirts that are low-waisted, hip huggers, hipster pants and low-slung. Also, pants and skirts without a waistband will usually sit lower. Don’t hesitate to choose pants that have details like cuffs or decorative taping along the sides that will bring the eye downward and create the illusion of length.

Pair shorter skirts with longer jackets to balance your proportions. Wear tops like sweaters, tunics and jackets that hit below your waist, but hit above your behind or you risk shortening the look of your legs.

As for accessories, choose skinny belts that are the same color as your top and wear them below your natural waist to further lengthen the line of your upper body. Dresses are a great choice since they can create the illusion of a longer torso, especially wrap dresses in a pattern that keeps the eye moving. Generally, the wrap part around the waist will sit lower on your body.

Q. I am a 22 year old student working at a bookstore. Some days I work in the cafe where our uniform is all black, and others I work on the book floor where the uniform is dress/business casual, basically just no jeans. I am 5'1" and a size 16. I want to look unique but professional on the book floor, and also need some color! I am having trouble because I love the girly bows and knits and vintage looks out right now, but don't want to look too young because of my stature. One other concern I have is that I have a large chest, and don't want to have a lot of cleavage showing, but don't want to be completely covered up in a turtleneck.
-Black & Color

A. You have to be careful if you're petite and busty with bows and ruffles that can add extra bulk and attention. I adore that you want color since one job requires an all black wardrobe. I stuck with top choices in a variety of styles, all bright colors and no turtlenecks. And always wear a good supportive bra that is smooth under your clothes - it can make a big difference in how your clothes fit.

1. Modal Scoopneck Tee w/ Flirty Ties, $66 at kiyonna.com
2. Satin Trench, $99.50 at lanebryant.com
3. Studio 1940 layered metallic sweater, $26.99 at fashionbug.com
4. Rocawear Brown Knit Houndstooth Trim Belted Top, $58 at torrid.com

Q. I have a long winter white skirt and a black and off-white top. I am unsure what type of shoes and what color hose or tights to wear. I am 52 if that matters.
-White in Winter

A. For most women, I would suggest black opaque tights and black pumps or peep toes. And even a stylish 52 year old woman can pull off the new high-heeled oxfords to pair with your skirt for an ultra-chic look. And of course, a slim fitting pair of pull on knee high boots. Swap the top and you can pair the skirt with brown boots, grey patent leather or even deep color like burgundy.

1. Martinez Valero 'Heat' Tall Stretch Boot, $188.95 at nordstrom.com
2. Biala 'Magia' Oxford, $199.95 at nordstrom.com

Q. My bridesmaids are going to be wearing this dress, but in the Sangria color at my wedding. The color looks just like a ripe raspberry in person. I want to let the girls buy/wear their own shoes, but I have NO idea what color to pick! Any suggestions? I thought about a bronze heel, but I'm a bit clueless when it comes to this kind of thing.

-Clueless about Color

A. Pretty dress choice. If you choose an optional bow or ribbon, you can have the bridesmaids wear shoes that match the accessory. Otherwise, a metallic bronze, silver or gold would look lovely. Choose the color, but let them buy a heel that works for them, not everyone can walk in towering heels. Plus, every girl has a different cash flow so while one may find a fab heel from Jimmy Choo another may be happy with a find at Payless.

Q. I'm attending a formal fundraising gala this winter in Cincinnati with clients and colleagues and want to make sure my attire is appropriate. I haven't been able to find a flattering long dress for my size 14 figure so I'm thinking about opting for a shorter black spaghetti strap dress with a metallic floral print. The dress has a fuller skirt and hits just below the knee. Does that seem OK or should I keep looking? If I go with this dress do I need to wear hose? What type—black sheer? What about shoes? Thanks in advance for helping a young staffer look appropriate in a sea of philanthropists.

-Formal Search

A. Stop looking and go with the black and metallic A-line dress. Put on a strapless bra for support and choose either black sheer hosiery or go bare legged. If you choose hosiery, then opt for a black satin, black patent or silver metallic pump. If you go bare legged, then you can choose a strappy heel or peep toe.

1. Via Spiga 'Dama' Pump, $225 at nordstrom.com
2. Kenneth Cole Reaction Rags to Riches, $82.95 at zappos.com
3. Steven Fanci, $113.95 at zappos.com
4. Façonnable 'Josie' Pump, $195 at nordstrom.com

Q. I really enjoy your column - I get such useful advice, and now I have a question of my own... I just bought this orange felted wool skirt. It seemed so fresh and fun with its mod styling, but I would really like to be able to wear it to work in my business casual office. I tried it on with a cream sweater and brown boots and felt like a Thanksgiving centerpiece! Help. What can I wear with this without being over-the-top?
-Color Me Happy

A. I bought the same skirt in the bright blue color, so while you may be looking for ways to tone down the look, I am embracing the color and happy vibe I’m sure it will give off. I’m surprised you felt like a turkey centerpiece when you chose such neutral pieces to wear with the skirt. Perhaps you need to just grin and bear it when you walk out the door until a few steps later when you’ll feel the confidence kick in for making a bold color choice. Brights will always get more attention, that’s why I adore orange at times for the fun mood it puts me in. How can anyone be sour in orange? I’ve pulled together options for toning down the look to pair with your brown boots, plus a brighter color (that may just be the one you receive the most compliments wearing!) Walk tall.

1. Wool-blend dolman-sleeve sweater, $128 at jcrew.com
2. Striped cashmere antler sweater, $99.99 at jcrew.com
3. Boden Cosy Wrap, $104 at bodenusa.com
4. Circle Applique Top, $68 at bodenusa.com

Q. I'm in my early twenties and I was wondering what accessories and what kind of shoes would go well with a black cap sleeve turtleneck sweater dress for casual wear as well as dressing up for Winter?
- Accessory Uncertain

A. The shoe part is simple: knee high boots, ankle boots, heeled oxfords and even embellished flats with opaque tights. As for jewelry, go with longer length necklaces with big charms or bolder pieces in color. I loathe the thin necklace dangling out of the top of a turtleneck so please don’t even consider it. Wear smaller earrings while adding a chunkier bracelet on your wrist or a contemporary twist to the cocktail ring for evening.

To dress it up:

1. Pave cabochon cocktail ring, $55 at jcrew.com
2. Pave-stripe enamel bangle, $49.99 at jcrew.com
3. Silk pendant necklace, $38 at bananarepublic.com
4. Pave cabochon teardrop necklace, $85 at jcrew.com

Casual chic:

5. Inlaid square bracelet. $34 at bananarepublic.com
6. Argento Vivo Multi Circle Silver Necklace, $98 at nordstrom.com
7. Betsey Johnson Charm Pendant Bracelet, $50 at nordstrom.com
8. Juicy Couture Ladybug Pendant Lip Gloss Necklace, $72 at nordstrom.com

Q. I LOVE your column and read it all the time. I am 26 years old and finishing my Master's in Iowa City, IA. I am going on an internship to Mesa, AZ from January until May. I am extremely excited but I have no idea what to wear once I get there! I am working in a counseling setting so I want to be professional but I am thinking that my favorite chunky sweaters won't do anymore. Suggestions?
-Temperature Rising

A. Your favorite chunky sweaters will come in handy in the winter months during the early morning hours as the desert does get cold. But for daytime, you’ll want to look to your Fall wardrobe as your dressing guide. Lighter jackets, dark denim, light sweaters, button down shirts, long sleeve t-shirts and cute tops that can be worn under a thin cardigan. You’ll be enjoying sun and temperatures in the 60’s and low 70’s. Skip your summery spaghetti strapped dresses and definitely no linen this time of year, keep those for May in Mesa when the temperatures reach above 80 degrees. Good luck!

Q. My husband and I were invited to a work-related "Christmas and New Year's Celebration" in mid-December at a nice restaurant. The hosts are the worldwide presidents and only senior employees will be there. Cocktails at 7:00 PM and dinner at 8:00 PM. Jackets are required for men. What do you suggest that we wear? We are in our mid 30's.
-Dinner at 8

A. You’re eating with the bigwigs so you want to look stylish, appropriate for a big holiday party and still fit your age. Whether you go with a safe choice like the little black dress or something bold in color, just be sure you don’t expose too much cleavage and bring along a little jacket or wrap if it’s chilly indoors. While most readers know by now that I always turn to a dress for instant glamour, I have fallen for many of the taffeta skirts that designers like Diane Von Furstenberg, Nanette Lepore and J.Crew are showing this Holiday season so I may plunk down my credit card for one of those this month.

1. Sophia short silk dress, $139.99 at jcrew.com
2. Kay Unger Cap Sleeve Stretch Satin Dress, $330 at saks.com
3. Silk taffeta Amelia short dress, $195 at jcrew.com
4. Steve Madden Silk Pleated Dress With Tie, $190 at macys.com
5. Eliza J Sleeveless Ruffle Wrap Dress with Bow, $134.25 at macys.com
6. Nanette Lepore Festive Silk Paillette Dress, $295 at saks.com
7. L.A.M.B. Tiered Ruffle Top and Bubble Plaid Taffeta Skirt, $165 each at bloomingdales.com
8. Nanette Lepore Coweled Sweater & Radiant Satin Skirt, $305 and $135 at bloomingdales.com

Q. Thanks so much for all the advice you give. I personally have really appreciated the various style challenges you've stepped in to mediate.

My question is maybe not so new, but still relevant I think. I want to feel like a princess! Ball gowns can be overrated I think, and definitely not so versatile. So I'd like to have some type of a blouse that would really make me feel elegant and feminine, and well, like a princess. I'm thinking ruffles, puffed sleeves, silk or taffeta or lace, you know...the whole nine yards! It'd be fabulous too if the blouse was well-fitting and not very revealing. Would you help me find a shirt that would really fit the bill?
-Every Girl's a Princess

A. Well, glass slipper, Prince Charming or not, there’s no reason a girl can’t look the part of a modern day princess. So I skipped the gowns and found tops that you can put on either day or evening while waiting for your carriage or hailing a cab.

With your glass slippers:

1. Robert Rodriguez Ruffle Top, $264 at nordstrom.com
2. Cynthia Steffe Ribbon Neck Silk Charmeuse Top, $220 at nordstrom.com
3. Gibson Ruffled Washed Silk Blouse, $78 at nordstrom.com
4. Karen Kane Lace Top with Bow, $158 at bloomingdales.com
5. Chiffon Ruffle Blouse, $40.80 at ardenb.com
6. Solid silk taffeta Phoebe blouse, $110 at jcrew.com
7. Pleated Tunic, $58 at ardenb.com

Q. I LOVE your column and how you offer such nice advice at a variety of prices. I'm writing to you for help for my friend, who's on the hunt for the perfect sweater dress. She tried on some of my sweater dresses (two that are currently sold at the Gap), but, since I'm not even 5'2" and she's about 5'7", they were too short on her. Do you know of any nice sweater dresses that: 1) wouldn't be too short on her, 2) are simple enough that could be mixed into a few different outfits (she likes the color brown), and 3) are relatively cheap (since we're both graduate students)?
-Cozy Cover

A. I found several sweater dresses that should be long enough for your 5’7” friend to wear with tights and heels or boots, pair with slim jeans or belt at the waist for a different vibe. And only one is over $100. Stay cozy!

1. Lux Funnel Neck Sweater Dress, $68 at urbanoutfitters.com
2. Paul Frank Vanessa Sweater Dress, $86 at urbanoutfitters.com
3. The Kingston Sweater Dress By Triple 5 Soul, $88 at karmaloop.com
4. Aqua Cashmere Turtleneck Dress, $168 at bloomingdales.com
5. Maria Sweater Dress, $44.50 at delias.com