March 2008 Archives

Q. What panties/underwear would you recommend for underneath a bridesmaid's gown that is a champagne-colored, satin material? The dress requires a strapless bra with a long front so that the dress stays smooth, and now I'm looking for seamless underwear that I can wear underneath. We tried high-waisted Spanx to create a completely smooth, body shaper type look, but the waistband is easily seen through the dress. Do you have any ideas/recommendations?
-Seamless

A. You need to look for a seamless thong that will banish the panty line. Look for a smooth thong with a side on the hip that is wider than a g-string style since a g-string may roll or dig into yourhip and show a line on the dress.

1. Hanro: Perfectly Nude Thong, $49 at barenecessities.com
2. Felina: Hint Of Skin Low Rise G-Kini, $9 at barenecessities.com
3. Felina: Hint Of Skin Low Rise Thong,$9 at barenecessities.com
4. Calvin Klein Naked thong, $16 at figleaves.com

5. Miraclesuit: Firm Control Strapless Body Briefer, $52 at at barenecessities.com
6. Naomi & Nicole: Luxurious Shaping Convertible Strapless Bra Slip, $48 at barenecessities.com
7. The Body Wrap: Body Wrap Lites Bra Slip with Underwire, $42 at barenecessities.com

Q. I am looking for a pair of moderately priced strappy sandals with a heel in a nude/tan color. I can't find them anywhere! I would like to wear them with a pink, just below the knee, bridesmaid dress in a spring wedding and with other summer dresses. I've heard that wearing a tan heel can lengthen the leg. Do you have any other shoe suggestions that can give the illusion of a longer leg?
-Illusionary Bare

A. Heels always give the illusion of a longer leg and choosing a neutral color that is similar to your skin tone is like wearing the same clothing color head to toe - it elongates the body. I like that you've chosen a neutral cream color to wear with your pink dress, it's a sophisticated choice.

1. Kenneth Cole Reaction Rich N Post, $83 at zappos.com
2. Delman Magical, $298.95 at zappos.com
3. Charles David Calypso, $253.95 at zappos.com
4. Nine West Havard, $111.60 (sale) at zappos.com
5. Martinez Valero 'Desiree' Sandal, $139.95 at nordstrom.com

Q. I recently got engaged and will be planning a wedding on the beach. Do you think black is an appropriate color for a bridesmaid's dress for a beach wedding?
-Hot Color

A. I would probably choose a color to keep the look cheerful since black can make you feel even hotter in the sun. It seems to attract and "suck" up the heat. If you choose black, then opt for a dress that looks more like a sundress or choose cotton and brighten the arrangement of flowers or keep it very simple and contemporary with a white floral bouquet.

Q. I have been asked to be a bridesmaid in my brother's wedding this coming August. Instead of selecting a specific bridesmaid's dress, the bride said that we can wear any dress, as long as it's navy. I am having a terrible time deciding on a style and finding the perfect dress. The bride's dress is quite fancy, but the guys are just wearing khakis and blue blazers. And it's an August outdoor wedding, so it will most likely be HOT.
-Navy Ne'er Do Well

A. Hey, high five to you. Three cheers, make that an ovation to the bride to be. I wish you could see my jubilant face right now and you'd probably feel a little more confident. You have been given the great "gift" of not having to conform to a long list of bride's wishes and demands and you'll save yourself some money or at least the anguish of stashing the dress in the back of your closet after the wedding is over. Navy is super chic and I've fallen in love with it lately as a substitute to black. The dress doesn't have to be long-YEAH! Since the guys are wearing the classic prep look of blue blazers and khakis you just need to find a cocktail length dress that can possibly take you from the wedding to a Saturday night dinner party some other time. These fabulous dresses should keep you looking cool.

1. Donna Ricco Stretch Satin Halter Dress, $158 at nordstrom.com
2. Jones New York Dress Bateau Neck Silk Dress, $180 at nordstrom.com
3. MARC BY MARC JACOBS 'Kitty' Strapless Dress, $448 at nordstrom.com
4. David Meister One Shoulder Sheath Dress, $306 at nordstrom.com

5. JS Boutique Embellished Matte Jersey Halter Dress, $158 at nordstrom.com
6.Tiered Layered Strapless Cocktail Dresses by BCBG MAXAZRIA, $320 at edressme.com
7. Sophia short silk dress, $195 at jcrew.com
8. Silk tricotine Jenelle short dress, $195 at jcrew.com

Q. We're attending a family wedding in the south in June. My mother has chosen a purple dress. She mentioned she plans to wear white nylons and white pumps (she's in her 70's but very active still). I keep thinking there's something better than white for her. She refuses to go without hose. Any advice?
-White Not?

A. I've always believed that unless you're under 10 years old, a ballerina or a quirky rock star, an adult should avoid white stockings. Suggest flesh toned hosiery for your mom and try to match the color perfectly so it looks like she has bare legs. Look for another color of pumps she can wear like a neutral cream or light tan, which can be very sophisticated.

Q. I'm dying for a cool, worn in bomber jacket for spring. But I can't find one that's just what I'm looking for. I want one that's kind of slouchy, rock and roll cool, but not too over the top. Something I can dress up or down.
-Rock Chick

A. I found plenty of options in all price ranges that you might fancy for rock and roll cool.

1. Theory Lanri Leather Jacket- Bloomingdale's Exclusive, $615 at bloomingdales.com
2. Xhilaration® Shirred Metallic Faux Leather Bomber, $29.99 at target.com
3. S.W.O.R.D. Lucca Jacket, $745 at tobi.com
4. Corpus Lambskin Quilted Leather Bomber Jacket in Black, $462 at revolveclothing.com

5. Lux Faux Leather Bomber Jacket, $128 at urbanoutfitters.com
6. Converse by John Varvatos Zip Hoodie Leather Jacket in Olive, $611 at revolveclothing.com
7. S.W.O.R.D Piacenza Leather Jacket in Black, $770 at revolveclothing.com
8. Mossimo® Black: Faux Leather Button Bomber, $34.99 at target.com

Q. I just picked out the most beautiful Lazaro bridesmaid dress in champagne. The only problem is: I have no idea how to accessorize them. Just earrings or a necklace as well? What color shoes? Any suggestions? -Accessory Challenged

A. Feel free to choose between earrings and a necklace or choose both, but please don't buy one of those matching sets of earrings and necklace. Do you really need the bridesmaids to wear exactly the same jewelry? If you're concerned about their taste level, then suggest they wear earrings of their own choice, but nothing too big or over the top and skip a necklace, which may distract from the dress. Unless you intend to buy your bridesmaids the jewelry to go with the dress, remember it can become a big expense to buy the dress, jewelry and shoes that you expect them to wear. As for shoes, something strappy or a high-heeled sling back. I like a champagne, pale gold or sophisticated cream heel.

Q. I purchased a cute little motorcycle jacket from "Steve and Barry's" Amanda Bynes Collection "Dear." I love the way it looks sort of old and vintage, but now I'm not exactly sure what to wear with it. Is it because I'm 35 and shouldn't be wearing it anyway?
-Age Appropriate

A. Unless you plan to wear it with a tube top and a micro mini, grab back some attitude and don that cute moto jacket. Wear it with a vintage style t-shirt and dark jeans or dress it up with tweed pants or a denim pencil skirt and top with ruffles or shine. Being 35 is still young!

1. Truly Madly Deeply Doves V Neck Tee, $28 at urbanoutfitters.com
2. Truly Madly Deeply Night Owl Tee, $28 at urbanoutfitters.com

Q. I recently purchased a Velvet (brand, not fabric) deep-V, sleeveless, empire waist, black dress. I live in Minnesota, and would like to wear it out for the evening. Would it be okay to wear a Michael Stars burgundy sparkle turtleneck under it? Is there anything else you could suggest? I don't have any fitted jackets or cropped sweaters.
-Wear it in Winter

A. Layering is key when it comes to extending our wardrobe from winter to spring and summer. Consider layering with a turtleneck sweater, v-neck top or even a collared button down shirt - think chic preppy. Add a long necklace that dangles as long as the deep v of the dress for extra lengthening effect. In many cases, it all comes down to trial and error. So try on the sparkled turtleneck and if you like it then wear it. Confidence can win most style battles.

Q. I am going to Bermuda on a work incentive trip. Most of the events are "resort casual" during the day, but everyone tends to dress up a bit for the evening events. I am looking for some long dresses that I can wear with sandals plus look appropriate around my co-workers. And I need to wear a bra. I am a size 6/8 with some curves, so a defined waist is usually best.
-Dress It Up

A. All these maxi dresses are certainly fun, flattering and can be worn with strappy or flat thong sandals. And as requested all can be worn with a bra - thin straps or strapless.

1. Jaclyn Dress at delias.com
2. Gabriella Dress, $49.50 at delias.com
3. Strapless Resort Dresses by Vivienne Tam, $306 at edressme.com
4. BCBGMAXAZRIA Eyelet Sundress, $268 at nordstrom.com
5. Printed Long Halter Dresses, $82 at edressme.com

Q. I am traveling to London in April and need advice on what to wear. I don't want to scream AMERICAN Tourist! I am traveling with my sister and we will attend one semi formal dinner, hit a few clubs, and do a lot of sight seeing! I am a stay at home mom and live in my jeans, clogs, and sweaters (right now) switching to jeans, skirts and tees in the spring and summer. I live in the south, so our April is normally warmer and wet. I have read that April is one of the driest in London. I want to look chic, hip and be comfy! Can you give me some ideas for some pieces that I can buy to travel?
-American in London

A. Leave the clogs at home. Keep your look classic so you don't become befuddled with matching and trying too hard to look cool. Sometimes the simplest pieces with the right accessory packs more punch. Pack a trench with a removable lining so you can be comfortable whether it's chilly or warm. A trench will work with jeans and dresses. Also pack bottoms that can be worn more than once like dark denim trouser jeans that can be dressed up with a flowy top and pumps for evening and a button down shirt in white, navy or black with a layering of charm necklaces or a patterned scarf, statement belt and comfortable shoes for walking all day.

Pack two dresses for evenings out that can look different when you change the accessories and heels, preferably one should be solid. Pack a shoulder bag that can fit a small purchase while out sightseeing and a clutch for evenings when you'll just need a few essentials. You'll need two pairs of heels and two pairs of shoes. The shoes for day need to be stylish - no chunky athletic sneakers. Look for shoes with extra padding built in if you don't already own something that will work. You may be able to get away with a cute sneaker style that is not meant for the gym.

Q. I love your website. I learned a lot from your answers to all the questions but now I need some help. I recently purchased this denim Sailor skirt in blue steel from Old Navy. I want to know what kind of tops would go nicely with it for a casual look since I can't wear jeans to work. Also what type of shoes, flats or heels? The skirt falls exactly on my knees. I'm petite with an athletic build (12P on top and 8P on bottom).

-Denim Dressed Up

A. You can be casual with a button down shirt tucked in and add a wide belt around your waist or kick it with stripes or patterns in a top or cardigan layered over a cami style top or short sleeve shirt. As for flats or heels, that will depend on your desired comfort and what top you're wearing. I've given a few indications of shoe choices with the tops I shopped.

Pair it with:

1. Trastevere paisley cardigan, $100 at jcrew.com -- wear simple flat sandals when the weather gets warmer
2. Coppelle paisley Alessia blouse, $88 at jcrew.com -- wear with espadrilles or navy patent wedge (closed or peep toe)
3. Petite silk ruffle-sleeve top, $64 at bananarepublic.com -- wear with cream or chocolate heels
4. Bella swirl print keyhole blouse, $34.30 at petitesophisticate.com -- wear with a black or navy mid-heel pump or patent leather slide. choose sandals in the summer.
5. Sparkle Striped Boatneck Tee, $14.99 at urbanoutfitters.com -- wear with an espadrille or strappy sandal

Q. For my 40th birthday, I plan to do the Holly Golightly, "Breakfast at Tiffany's" look. I have the perfect black dress, the tiara and gloves, but am struggling to find something similar to the triple strand pearls with the brooch in the middle that she had. I'm wondering what ideas you might have to recreate her stylish look. I would prefer the jewelry to be fake so it doesn't cost a fortune.
-Look-a-like

A. An homage to Audrey, much fun. I searched the net for affordable options to imitate the necklace and, while they are not an exact match, they should do the trick. They range in price from $49-169. Just add your own brooch for full effect.

1. 100 inch Freshwater Cultured Pearl Necklace, $95 at ice.com
2. Crystal Vine and White Simulated Pearl Multi Row Bib Necklace, $150 at carolee.com
3. Pearl Multi Row Crystal Deco Clasp Necklace, $125 at carolee.com
4. Three Row White Pearl Collar Necklace, $45 at carolee.com

Q. I just bought a lovely skirt suit. What camisole colors can I wear with a brownish purple suit? Need help fast.
-Color Clarity

A. When you say "a camisole under a suit," do you mean the basic simple tank style or a style more like lingerie? Depending on how strong the brownish purple color is, you can easily go with chocolate or purple. But I'd say choose something with more zing of color.

1. Hanky Panky Gilded Rose Camisole, $47.99 at barenecessities.com
2. Lace-trim camisole, $28 at bananarepublic.com
3. Nanette Lepore 'Kiss Me' Top, $255 at nordstrom.com
4. Classiques Entier® Twist Front Top, $98 at nordstrom.com
5. Design History Sleeveless Ruffle Top, $75 at saks.com
6. Silk Illusion Blouse, $58 at ardenb.com

Q. I have been searching for answers all over the internet, and I came across your page. I am attending my fiance's sister's wedding in a month and we are part of the wedding party. We will be attending the rehearsal dinner, and I am not sure what to wear. In order to complement what my fiance is wearing, I came across an ivory colored dress. Is that inappropriate to wear to the rehearsal dinner? The day of the wedding I am wearing blue, and I don't want to wear blue again the night before. Help! What are the dress rules for the rehearsal dinner and also for the brunch the morning after the wedding?
-Ivory Intimidation

A. As long as you're not wearing a competing white or ivory the day of the wedding, then feel free to wear the ivory dress to the rehearsal dinner. There should be no expectation to wear blue the night before to match the day of the wedding as well.

Q. My question is based on something I keep seeing on celebrities - leather jackets. I love the black leather jackets I've been seeing on young starlets, they look great with both jeans and dresses. I'd like to find a jacket that is flattering (some I've tried on make me look wide) and has the rock and roll feel of the ones I've seen in magazines, but hopefully won't go out of style in the next few years. Could you help me?
-Rockin' It

A. A good leather jacket is not cheap, so I warn you now that it may be an investment piece. One that has some attitude and fewer over-the-top embellishments will last longer than others. Keep it sleek and look for ones that help define your waist. Add some of your own 'tude and you'll covet the jacket for years. Wear it with a tank top and dark jeans, pair it with a black cashmere turtleneck and tuxedo pants then throw it over a knit or lightweight wool dress on Saturday night.

I own this jacket in black and love it (Hayden-Harnett Rizzo Motorcycle Jacket , $650) >

Some more options for you:

1. Vince Leather Motorcycle Jacket, $774 at bloomingdales.com
2. S.W.O.R.D Genova Pocket Jacket, $825 at shopbop.com
3. Jill Stuart Lara Jacket in Mascara, $675 at revolveclothing.com
4. S.W.O.R.D Volterra Leather Jacket, $748 at revolveclothing.com

Q. I am attending a black tie evening event in NYC at the end of March. Average high and low temperatures around that time are 52 and 36 degrees, respectively. So, I think there's a good chance that it'll be quite chilly (for a Southerner). But, it IS late March. Can I wear a long sleeve velvet burnout dress to this event? My alternative is a black sleeveless cocktail dress with asymmetrical hem (of polyester). I'm not sure what sort of wrap would complement it AND provide some warmth.
-Burned Out

A. You are stretching it with the event at the end of March. It is a lovely dress. Perhaps if you wear open toed heels like in the photo and pray for cold you can get a way with it. Best bet is to pack both and check the temperatures that night. Since you'll be indoors for the event, a little black jacket, beaded cardigan or soft wrap will do for keeping the chill off with the sleeveless dress when you're seated.

dress: Sutton Studio Exclusive Long Burnout Dress, $119 (sale) at bloomingdales.com

Q. I need your assistance shopping for a formal dress. I fell in love with a designer who is really pricey, but the dress looks damn good! It's Butter by Nadia brand and it's part of her Signature Satin line. I love it in Cobalt (bright blue). This dress is amazing and can be wrapped in multiple ways to create different looks. I need the dress for a special occasion. Here's my dilemma: Butter by Nadia advertises this dress online and online boutiques sell it for the same price in stores. I cannot afford this price. This online boutique sells it in my favorite color. Victoria's Secret's " 7 in 1 " is a look-a-like in jersey material but it doesn't come in Cobalt. The black is okay, but don't know if the Teal and Red are formal enough. It is $200 dollars cheaper. I'm not finding any more look-a-likes, but I have heard of a Mai Tai by Soprano that is exactly like the Butter by Nadia and it's $50. The stores that I go to are not selling it in my color and it is a mystery to me if it is sold online. Do you know any dresses in this color and style and price? If you can help me make this happen please I would be so grateful! I'm not so good at looking online. Can't wait to hear from you.
-Wrap it

A. I own the darker blue Butter by Nadia dress. I bought it for a Holiday party with my boyfriend and I adore it. Can't wait to wear it again and again so I can complete the list of the "20" ways to wear it. I like the silky feel of it, the drape and the color with shine. That said, I think the dress is a good investment if you think you'll get several more chances to wear it. However, I'm not going to recommend you eat Ramen noodles for the next two months to pay your credit card bill. Why not order the V.S. dress, try it on and play with the variations they claim? If the dress falls well on your body and doesn't seem like it will come apart at the seams, then you may have the ideal imitation. For the V.S. color choices, I'd recommend black, but I do love the colors from Butter. You'll surely be a stand out in the crowd in color. I did look for Mai Tai by Soprano and only found clubbing clothes on the sites where the name brought me.

Q. This Spring, I will be attending a large gathering of writers and book industry professionals. Each author will be given exactly two minutes to get up before the crowd of over a hundred and pitch their book in order to secure invitations to book fairs across the country--and I'm one of the authors. This is hugely important for my career as a novelist, and I want to give the right impression. I'm 34 and petite. I'd love to look professional but stylish, the kind of author you'd love to have speak at your book fair. Please help! 
 -Writer In the Spotlight

A. Best bet is to smile and stand with good posture. Wear an outfit that is feminine, has flair and avoids all chances of being considered stodgy, dull or conservative. I've found petite options from chic pants paired with a knit v-neck top to a skirt with a hem that hits around the knee. If you choose a dress with heels, then choose one in a great color that will be remembered - black at an event like this could get lost in the crowd, but a bright blue will draw attention to you. Once you snag the attention, it's up to you to keep them wrangled with your stimulating conversation.

1. AK Anne Klein Petites Printed Pleated Skirt, $89 at macys.com
2. Petite Super 120s sleeveless dress, $180 at jcrew.com
3. INC International Concepts® Petites Belted Sheath Dress, $119 at macys.com
4. Petite wool gabardine three-button mini-hacking jacket (and matching pants), jcrew.com - Add a bright whimsical top or thin knit underneath to break the suit code. Make the suit a comfort stylish outfit rather than a conservative look.

Q. I have a navy tunic dress. It's too cold to wear bare legged, I have black boots, dark brown boots, and camel boots, but not sure what to wear with the boots? Tights?
-Boot Strapped

A. Navy is a great neutral to build on and any of those boot colors may work, but of course, try the dress and the boots together. And tights are the ideal cover, whether patterned, textured or solid black, navy, grey or dark chocolate. For fun, try a rich color like eggplant, emerald or hunter green to pop between the hem of the dress and the top of the boots. And if you can find them, a mix of colors (think Missoni style) would be quite hip.