January 2008 Archives

Q. I read with great interest almost all of the shoe related questions on your site. While I did learn a lot, thank you, I could not find the answer to my question. We are going to my Niece's wedding in mid-January. I found a lovely burgundy, sweetheart neckline, velvet skirt suit. I just love it. I have a pair of black velvet pumps, but they just don't look right. I've seen some burgundy suede wedges that I like and also black patent leather mid-heel pumps. Could you please share your expertise on shoe color and material(s) that would go best with that burgundy skirt suit?
- Shoe Stressed Aunt in Michigan

A. Velvet and velvet is too much velvet. And don’t get yourself stuck trying to match burgundy colors, feel free to play up a different burgundy hue. My suggestion would be a black or bronze heel with a satin, suede or patent leather fabric or perhaps something in a pattern with an added detail on the front of the shoe. Skip the wedge, if you plan to dance, wedges don’t allow a person to really strut their stuff.

Q. I recently bought the Backyard Garden Skirt from Anthropologie but I'm a bit unsure of what I can pair with it - both on top and on bottom. Never before did I think that brown and black could go together, but I see that both colors are on this skirt. Does this mean I can wear black shoes with it? Can I wear tall black boots? And would I wear opaque or sheer tights? For the top, do I have to find a shirt that matches one of the colors on the skirt, or can it be a completely different color? I'm kind of lost on this one! Any advice you can give would be great. Thank you so much for your fantastic column!

-Color Combo

A. There are multiple ways to wear this skirt since there are several colors in the pattern. You can certainly wear black or brown opaque tights with matching color boots or heels on your bottom half during winter months and come spring you can lighten up the look with bare legs and sandals. You can go classic with solid tops in any of the colors picked up from the skirt. You may even want to try a grey, black or brown top and grey patent leather heels. Or choose the peachy color to add brightness to the outfit. And if you are truly daring, choose a top with a subtle pattern from one of the skirt colors or choose a pale solid color like seafoam.

Q. I need help to figure out what type and color of shoes to wear as a bridesmaid for a beach wedding in Key West. My dress is a tangerine color and is from JCrew.
-Tangerine Dream

A. Beach weddings are always tough in the sandal department. We all want to look our best and heels guarantee a good looking leg, but sand impedes that choice. The other way to look at it is you get to be more casual and dance barefoot. So before you kick off your sandals and go barefoot for the reception, choose a flat fancy sandal with a little gold embellishment.

1. Mystique 1919, $130 at piperlime.com
2. Nine West Rosmarie, $82.95 at zappos.com

Q. Are leggings still acceptable? I am 40-something with quite a few dresses that I think are too short for someone my age to wear without pants or leggings. Love the dresses, but not sure how to wear them.
-Leg Wear

A. Why do you own so many short dresses? Are they from several years ago when you felt more confident sporting a view of your legs above the knees? It’s fine to wear leggings once in a while with dresses, but not as a routine. So keep only your absolute favorite short styles and donate the rest to consignment, a younger friend or a charity run thrift shop. And start buying dresses that don’t require leg coverage all the time.

Q. I love reading your website, so I thought I'd reach out with a question of my own. I am tall (5'8) and have large breasts (D/DD). I really need a comfortable bra that will support me. Right now most of my bras are comfortable, but unsupportive or a pushup style that leaves marks. Is there a happy combination of both? I haven't had a lot of luck with chain stores, and am hoping you can recommend a specialty store where they will fit me (I live in Boston.) I'm willing to pay whatever it takes for a bra that I will use over and over again. I'm also in my 20s, so something cute would be much appreciated.
-Cute and Comfy

A. You’ve got to start with the best pieces underneath your clothes so you feel comfortable and confident with what you wear on the outside. And with busty gals, there’s no need to sacrifice support, comfort or even being sexy. A few tips when shopping for the perfect fitting bra:

• If breasts spill out on the sides go up a cup size
• If the cup has any wrinkles, go down a cup size
• If straps leave marks, look for wider straps that are cushioned and adjustable
• While underwire generally works best, there are plenty of new designs and technology that will still give support without the wire

As for Boston bra fitting experts, here are a few to help you with your shopping dilemma that are highly rated:

• Lady Grace in Brookline
• Intimacy of Boston in Copley Plaza
• Lingerie Studio on Newbury St. in Boston

Some suggestions online:

1. Bali No Poke Wire® Seamless Underwire Bra, $24 at barenecessities.com
2. Bali "Passion for Comfort" Minimizer Underwire Bra, $32 at macys.com
3. Lilyette "Fit for You" Lace Wire with Sew Free Wing, $31 at macys.com
4. Panache Inferno Convertible Underwire Plunge Bra, $53 at barenecessities.com
5. Olga Satin Edge Underwire Bra, $32 at barenecessities.com
6. Le Mystère Dream Tisha Seamless Full Fit Bra, $68 at barenecessities.com
7. Bali Seductive Curves Underwire Bra, $24.80 at barenecessities.com

for even more optiions, check out our Ultimate Bra Guide

Q. I know that rain boots are in season right now, but is it okay to still wear them when it is NOT raining?
-No Puddles

A. All those colorful, printed, patterned rain boots were designed to make splashing through puddles more fun on a dreary day. To wear a rain boot when it’s not raining means choosing a boot that doesn’t scream "rain boot." Look for boots that have minimal details that are stylish enough to pair with pieces in your wardrobe, while still blending with your outerwear. I dig these four styles for their fashionable to rugged looks. And remember in the winter months to wear a warmer sock since rubber doesn’t offer much insulation.

1. Tretorn Plask W, $129 at zappos.com
2. Sporto Lani, $68.95 at zappos.com
3. La Canadienne Dorina, $258.95 at zappos.com
4. Aquatalia by Marvin K. Nasty, $370 at piperlime.com

Q. I recently bought a few shirts that could use a black sweater to go along with them, but I am having a difficult time tracking down one that is cute and affordable.
-Basic not Boring

A. A black sweater is a classic and every woman should own a turtleneck and a v-neck or cardigan. But the sweaters don’t have to be dull in shape or style. For a sweater to stand apart in your wardrobe, look for extra details like a puffed sleeve, buttons in non-standard places, 3/4 sleeves and embroidery. All these sweaters are under $100:

1. 3/4-sleeve buttonless cardigan, $68 at bananarepublic.com
2. Vintage Lace Sweater , $34.50 at delias.com
3. Boyfriend Cardigan Sweater , $24.50 at delias.com
4. Gitano metallic shimmer cardigan, $36.99 at fashionbug.com
5. Chunky Cotton Cardigan, $88 at freepeople.com
6. Lux Santa Cruz Cardigan, $48 at urbanoutfitters.com
7. Noemi Smocked Sweater , $29.50 at delias.com
8. Roundneck sweater, $39.50 at espritshop.com

Q. I bought a cable knit scoop neck sweater dress in winter white that is about 18 inches, so it hits above the knee. I have NO idea what to wear on the bottom- tights? If so, what color? Boots? Flats? [I'm 6 feet tall, so I love flats.] I have a pair of flat black riding boots, but I don't know how well that will go with winter white.
-Shed Some Light

A. Go for a bold contrast of black and white. Wear black opaque tights with black knee high boots or black pumps (or flats in your case). You can do the same with some textured brown tights and add brown boots or a patterned flat, wedge or pump in brown hues. Also consider playing with color for casual days with burgundy or hunter green tights and heels or boots.

Q. Any suggestions for a sophisticated prom dress? Should it be black? What length?
-Prom Pinache

A. A black dress or a long dress doesn’t guarantee sophistication. You need to look for a dress that is appropriate for your age, doesn’t show off too much skin and fits your personality. I had fun finding multiple styles that are sophisticated, feminine and perfect for prom. My extra tips would be to make sure you go light on the hairspray, don’t wear too much makeup and be sure to blend below your chin. Rah, Rah!

1. Black Strapless Holiday Dresses by Sue Wong, $372 at edressme.com
2. Short Black Dress by Jovani, $440 at edressme.com
3. Sequined Strapless Dresses by Betsy Johnson, $425 at edressme.com
4. DKNY Jeans Juniors Ruffled Satin Halter Dress, $89 at macys.com
5. Ruby Rox Tube Party Dress with Tie, $66 at nordstrom.com
6. Navy Ruched Bodice Long Gowns by BCBG MAXAZRIA, $440 at edressme.com
7. Lavender Mist Chiffon Evening Gowns by BCBG MAXAZRIA, $480 at edressme.com
8. Silver Prom Dresses by Faviana, $258 at edressme.com

Q. Can you advise me what kind of earrings I should get to go with my halter style wedding dress? I will probably have my hair up somehow, but nothing too formal. I'm not wearing a veil and was thinking about a small hair accessory instead. I decided not to wear a necklace, but I am clueless as to whether I should go with a stud or small drop or some mid-sized chandelier earring. What kind of earring shape should I be looking for with a dress like this? I'm not very tall (5'2") and my wedding is being held at the Forever Grand Chapel at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in July with a guest list of about 50 people.
-Not so Traditional Bride

A. Petite gals need to stay away from oversized jewelry. Since you’re skipping all the other traditional accoutrements you do, however, need a little more shine on the ear. Skip the studs and choose something with a little drop from the lobes.

1. Aquamarine, Whisky Topaz, and Garnet Earrings, $115.60 at blueluxe.com
2. Isharya Libra Earrings, $188 at maxandchloe.com
3. CC Skye "Jackie O" Baguette Hoops, $165 at maxandchloe.com
4. Juliannes's Bow Earrings - Gold, $29.99 at emitations.com
5. 2 Carat Olive Quartz and Citrine 14K Gold Earrings, $195 at ice.com
6. 1/8 Carat Diamond 14K White Gold Flower Drop Earrings, $250 at ice.com
7. Cubic Zirconia and Ivory Quartz Oval Earrings, $126.40 at blueluxe.com

Q. I love your website. I have gotten rid of a lot of things in my closet and seriously need to build a new wardrobe. I was wondering what basic pieces I need to have. If you could add a section to your site that shows great basic finds would be great. I am a curvy petite.
-Shapely Figure

A. First off, make it simple and shop from designers that cater to your size so you don’t have to spend even more money heading to the tailor. Petitesophiticate.com offers pants in both petite regular and petite short, plus stylish dresses, suits, tops and more. J. Crew , Banana Republic , Ann Taylor , Liz Claiborne , Gap and Jones New York also make petite sizes.

The classic list of items every woman should have in her wardrobe hasn’t changed much in 25 years, but it’s what you add in that injects your own personality. It can mean colors that brighten or deepen your skin tone, tops with added details or accessories that help liven up a white button down.

I consider the top 10 classics to be:

1. Well fitting white button down shirts.
2. Long sleeve and short sleeve shirts, primarily v-neck which is most flattering.
3. Trench coats. For your size be sure it doesn’t overwhelm your height. Look for belted versions to help define your waist and a style that you can wear with suits, dresses and jeans. A truly versatile style will also have a zip out or button out wool lining.
4. Black pants. Nowadays, it’s also good to have navy, chocolate, khaki and white for choices all year.
5. Dark denim jeans. A pair that can be dresses up with heels for evening and ballet flats to run around doing errands.
6. Turtleneck, v-neck and cardigan sweaters in black and other various colors.
7. One good suit, but if your career doesn’t require a suit, then just buy a good blazer that you can pair with trousers and jeans. It is a polished look to wear a button down shirt, blazer and dark jeans.
8. Dresses. Go for a wrap style and a v-neck dress that is fitted on the top half and has an a-line bottom half.
9. Skirts. For a curvy, petite figure look to score a-line shapes and avoid full skirts and straight up and down pencil styles.
10. Additional tops that have flirty features, but are not laden with ruffles and bows. Too many girly features on a petite figure can make you appear like a little girl rather than a woman.

Q. Stumbled onto your web page while looking for a jean jacket for my wife. She had this beautiful Gap cropped, longer sleeved jean jacket with pearl snap buttons and a paisley cotton inside liner (size M) w/ 1969 collection logo on it. I think it may have been a special edition because it cost around $160 and most items don’t cost that much from the Gap. It has since torn and I want to replace it as a gift but can’t find it anywhere. Do you know where I can buy or locate this jacket? I contacted Gap and they said they don’t make it any more. Need help. Would pay almost anything.
-Pulling Threads

A. No slam dunk on this one, sorry. My search came up empty, but you may have better luck finding a gently worn replicate on ebay. If the jacket cannot be repaired by a tailor and you’ve exhausted your search, then it’s time to shop for a new jean jacket. This is not necessarily the prime time for jean jacket shopping season, but I did find some styles that may appeal to your wife.

1. Lauren Jeans Co. Classic-Fit Denim Jacket, $109 at macys.com
2. Lucky Brand Jeans Denim Dark Wash Jacket, $45.99 at amazon.com
3. Classic stretch jean jacket, $98 at jcrew.com
4. Tamara Denim Jacket, $109 at ralphlauren.com

Q. I read your advice religiously, but I've never had an opportunity to ask a question myself. Now I have a rather important one. I'm a 21-year-old medical student about to begin my clinical rotations in New York hospitals, so I'm finally expected to dress the part of a respectable physician. As a student, I'm effectively broke, making finding nice looking suits rather difficult. I'm 6 feet tall, usually a size 8 in jeans, with a DD bust, so I'm also rather proportionately odd. Do you have any suggestions as to where I can find suits worth investing in? What type of work wear ought I be seeking out in order to look my best? 
-Clinically Confused

A. On an “effectively broke” budget, it may be smart to buy two suits and then invest in separates like skirts, pants and jackets that can be swapped with other pieces. Add in some well fitting button down shirts that keep your look crisp and professional plus some good sweaters. You’re a 21-year-old doctor that will probably be wearing a doctor’s coat over your clothes, so a suit jacket may not be necessary everyday. I looked for suits and some additional pieces that will help give you a look of a respectable professional and kept it all under $250.

Start with a two-option suit consisting of a tailored jacket, great fitting pants and a slim skirt. In addition to your two suit choices, you can wear any of the 3 pieces as separates paired with other items in your wardrobe. This will be your biggest investment.

Super 120s collection from jcrew.com , available in several colors and sold as separates ranging from $118 to $240.

Add in some stylish knits to layer over crisp shirts to pair with your pants and skirts. The shirts can be worn alone as well.

1. Slim stretch shirt, $59.50 at jcrew.com
2. BCBG Max Azria Empire Waist Smocked Top, $145 at bloomingdales.com
3. Short-sleeve chainlink blouse, $68 at bananarepublic.com
4. Cotton short-sleeve darted blouse, $58 at bananarepublic.com
5. 3/4 Sleeve Puff Cardigan, $88 at armaniexchange.com
6. Wool Lycra Crepe Collared Pullover, $158 at maxtudio.com

Q. I need your advice. I'm in the middle of purging my closet of outdated fashion styles I've had since 2005. I am a 29-year old female. I would like to know if peasant skirts are items to be kept or thrown out. I currently own a white-tiered peasant skirt among several others. Also, I’m wondering if I need to add my denim and black tailored gauchos to the "junk" pile.
-Clear Out

A. Fashion is cyclical. Eventually, everything makes a comeback. Just cut down on how many items from several years ago you intend to save and of course they need to be in good condition. I suggest you keep only one item of those trends since it’s not like a Diane Von Furstenberg patterned wrap dress that was big in the '70s and still strong for the last eight or more years.

The white-tiered peasant skirt will work with tanks tops, flip flops and a swimsuit at the beach next summer or while on vacation somewhere hot and sunny. Less scrutiny at the beach than on a city street. Toss the other skirts, when the trend comes back in full swing you’ll surely find new versions you prefer. As for the guachos, I’m skeptical on a reason to keep them. True gauchos are wide leg and almost resemble the flow of a skirt, they are not slim like cropped pants. I have owned gauchos, first as a kid, then once again a denim pair about four or five years ago. I no longer have them. Gauchos require solid style attitude. So if they look good on you and you can’t bear to donate them, then fold them, store them and wait for the fashion resurrection a few years from now.

Q. I have recently discovered your website and I love it! As a stay-at-home mom of 3, it's hard to stay connected to the world of fashion. When dealing with kids, I find it much easier to use a purse with an extra long strap so I can wear it crossed over my torso. This may not be the style right now but it makes my life easier when I don't have a bag falling (or being pulled) off my shoulder. The problem is that it is really hard to find a stylish purse that can work this way. I never have time to change out my purse, so I need one that will work for day and evening. I'm also on a pretty tight budget. I would really appreciate any suggestions you have!
-Strap On

A. Usually all that we carry in our bags during the day isn’t needed for a night out. However, for your specific needs, I found shoulder bags with an additional strap to wear like a messenger bag by day so you can be hands free and still stylish enough to head out in the evening. You just may have to cut back on stuffing essentials for the kids in the bag as well.

1. Big Buddha Groupie Bag, $84 at ebags.com
2. Perlina Spare Change Round Shopper, $210 at ebags.com
3. Xhilaration® Large Tote Bag - Black Geo Flower, $8.99 at target.com

4. Xhilaration® Tote Bag - Gold Matte Circles, $9.99 at target.com
5. Eileen West Italian Garden Satchel, $268 at ebags.com

Q. I need more formal business suits – think Washington politico or federal agent. I’ve been down the J.Crew and Banana Republic roads (I own a basic black Banana suit that I love), but where else should I look/try?
-Suit Search

A. Your suit may have to be conservative, but it doesn’t have to be boring. Look for well-tailored, well fitting suits that step beyond dull box cuts.

1. Tahari by ASL Solid Skirt Suit, $140 (sale) at macys.com
2. Tahari by Arthur S. Levine Plaid Skirt Suit & Camisole, $320 at macys.com
3. GARFIELDMARKS Pinstripe Jacket, $394 and 'Lori' Pants, $194 at nordstrom.com
4. Theory "Andy Albers" Suit Jacket, Blouse, and Pants at bloomingdales.com

Q. I'm a 29-year-old attorney who loves cardigans! I just went on a cardigan buying spree at J. Crew and now I own three more cardigans but they all have a three-quarter length sleeve. Since it's winter and I live in New York, I don't want to wear a cami or a short sleeve blouse with them... Can I wear a long sleeve button down shirt instead or are long sleeves a no-no?
-Long or Short



A. Long Sleeves are definitely a yes with a 3/4 sleeve cardigan. It can be especially chic with a pop of color like a shiny silk blouse or a patterned top. Generally, you should opt for a thin fabric so you don't add unnecessary bulk underneath the cardigan. Some suggestions:

1. Aqua Ruffle Front Bow Blouse, $31.20 (sale) at bloomingdales.com
2. Carte Blanche by Anja Flynt Long Sleeve Button Front Tunic in Ivory, $235 at couturecandy.com
3. Rag & Bone Wrap Neck Blouse, $168 (sale) at tobi.com
4. Munthe Plus Simonsen Rosalina Tunic, $175 (sale) at tobi.com

Q. Since LA isn't very cold, I like to wear a sweater dress so I don't have to take a jacket with me. I had a question about how to dress up a gray scoop neck sweater dress or a dark navy blue cowl neck sweater dress. Can I wear these with boots and tights? If so, which color scheme would go best with this outfit.
-Cover Cozy

A. For gray, I like the idea of adding color or texture. Try opaque plum, olive green or a cable knit black or navy pattern and add knee high or ankle boots for complete coverage when heading out at night. For navy, go either with a navy hue for a sleek head to toe look and add patent leather heels in a color for a bit of attitude like burgundy or steel grey, or go for the chic contrast of black and navy by wearing opaque tights and adding a wide black belt at the waist.

Q. I'm trying to figure out what to pack for my three week honeymoon in Thailand. We will be on the beach most of the time, but spending a few days in Bangkok & Chiang Mai. We are going mid-February so temp will be in the 80s.
-Bliss Bound

A. I am hooked on water bound vacations and have learned the ins and outs of packing, whether it’s low key surfing in Costa Rica or a relaxing boat trip in the Caribbean. The great part of a warm weather locale is that you can pack more since the pieces are thinner and take up less room in your bag. One big bag is enough, don’t pack more than 5 pairs of shoes (sandals, flip flops, etc.) and pack more sunscreen than you think you’ll need, or be willing to buy a few items when you travel. And consider using shampoo to wash intimates along the way to cut down on the amount of underwear and bras that you pack.

It gets quite humid during the middle of the day in Thailand so you may have to deal with the sweat factor. Don’t pack anything you may worry about perspiration stains setting in before you can get home to do a wash.

Packing List:

Categories:

• Fashion ,
• Travel

Q. Thank you for your consistent savvy fashion advice. This is the third time I am asking a question and you have always given me superb tips. I will come back for more! I am in search of the perfect black pants--if there is such a thing. Something versatile that I could wear year round, can be dressed up or down, and is wrinkle and lint-resistant, too. Is that too much to ask?
-Fit Fantastic

A. Unfortunately, due to everyone woman being shaped differently, I can’t guarantee the perfect pair. I’m a big fan of Vince, Alice+Olivia, Chaiken, Jolie Anlo and sometimes Theory. I suggest that once you find the right pair, consider buying two pairs since black pants are truly classics. As for lint resistant pants, this means avoiding wool pants that seem to “catch” everything and avoiding sweaters that shed. Advertised wrinkle resistant pants generally mean that the fabric fibers are treated with a chemical to help resist wrinkles, this also means that the resistance usually lasts only about 30 washings. Polyester and jersey fabric blends usually mean fewer wrinkles.

A few options for you:

1. Alice + Olivia Wide Waist High Waisted Pant with Belt, $299 at singer22.com
2. Chaiken Profile Cuffed Full Leg Trousers, $198 at nordstrom.com
3. Theory Max C Tailor Pant, $242 at pinkmascara.com

Q. I’ve got the back gap problem. Whenever I sit down or bend over wearing my low-rise or mid-rise jeans they gap in the back. Since I don’t own a wardrobe consisting of all long tops what can I do so I’m not exposing more than I want?
- Butt Bashful

A. I’ve actually donated sweaters and tops to my favorite consignment while spending more money in search of longer length tops since, like you, I’m not a fan of showing it all off. Tired of layering on tissue thin tanks and spending more money, there is a simple solution. Two women, Christine and Kelly, came up with the bright idea of taking various fabrics to match a woman’s wardrobe and created a pull on “cover” for the back gap problem. Check it out at myhip-t.com .

Q. I would like to buy my mom -- who is a very youthful looking 64 -- a pair of stylish but age-appropriate jeans. She's way too cute for those light-washed denim capris she's been sporting for the past two decades. A bit about her: She's pear shaped (very shy about her midsection and rear), has great legs, and is average-to-short.
-Divine Denim

A. Please hide the light-washed capris. Your youthful mom needs to embrace dark denim washes that are far more sophisticated and chic. I, too, motivated my mom into banishing her tapered lighter jeans and found dark denim boot cut styles for her instead.

I’m a fan of jeans that have a bit of stretch to help hold in the tummy area. Make sure the back pockets are centered on her butt and not high or low. Avoid patch pockets and look for jeans that are mid-rise. Mom doesn’t need to worry about bending over, nor do you want her to wear the higher waist styles that can age her. And definitely go for boot cut or a very slight flare to balance her pear shape. A tapered or skinny leg will only make her hips look larger. Once you’ve found the right jeans, then have her search for a stylish pair of trouser jeans that she can sport out for dinner and a movie. Encourage your mom to wear a heel (even if it's a low one) with her new jeans, she'll look instantly slimmer and feel younger.

Since your mom might balk at the high priced jeans you and I might buy, I found more affordable options:

1. Not Your Daughter's Jeans Tummy Tuck Stretch Jeans, $118 at nordstrom.com
2. Levi's Perfectly Slimming Jean, Rinse Wash, $34.99 at macys.com
3. Lauren Jeans Co Modern Boot-Cut Sydney Jean, $89.50 at macys.com
4. Worn Jeans 'Lizzie' Stretch Trouser Jeans, $98 at nordstrom.com
5. Fire 'Hillary' Wide Leg Pants, $42 at nordstrom.com
6. Wardrobe Stretch Denim Trousers, $68 at nordstrom.com
7. Nine West Wide-Leg Denim Trouser, $79 at macys.com