May 2008 Archives

Q. I have a Saturday night, black-tie wedding coming up and I have no idea what to wear. I know people traditionally wear long, black dresses, but since I'm kind of small (5'2", size 0), I'm afraid I would get lost in a dress like that. Also, since I'm 24 and it's summer, I wouldn't mind straying from black and wearing something fun. Keeping this in mind, what would be appropriate? Would a cocktail dress be ok? Or are there any particular styles of long dresses that flatter shorter people? Do you have any suggestions?
- Distressed Over Dress

A. A long gown on a petite woman can look like an overwhelming amount of fabric or look like you're playing dress up in your mom's closet. Black tie affairs no longer require a long gown - just an appropriate dress that is fiercely festive, sophisticated and elegant. I shopped for several options and it's purely coincidental that they all are strapless.

1. Strapless Florence dress, $250 at jcrew.com
2. Jillian strapless dress, $295 at jcrew.com
3. Kay Unger Strapless Bubble Dress, $330 at saks.com
4. BCBGMAXAZRIA Silk Strapless Dress, $360 at saks.com
5. BCBGMAXAZRIA Silk Empire Dress, $156 (sale) at saks.com
6. BCBGMAXAZRIA Satin Cocktail Dress, $288 at saks.com

Q. Do stylish and comfy go together when describing a pair of shoes? I hope so! Going to New Orleans means a lot of walking and standing in the heat. Do you have suggestions for stylish and comfy shoes/sandals that would go well with casual dresses and skirts?
- Good Look Foot

A. You can stand, dance and explore New Orleans from the Garden District to the French Market to Bourbon Street in these sandals whether you wear a dress, skirt or shorts.

1. Onex Icon, $79 at zappos.com
2. Taryn by Taryn Rose Extol, $195 at zappos.com
3. Aquatalia by Marvin K. Twist, $181.90 (sale) at zappos.com
4. Soul Mate, $49.99 (sale) at aerosoles.com
5. Picnic, $49.99 (sale) at aerosoles.com

Q. I love your site and have been checking out your great advice for a while now. I have a dilemma: I am going to several weddings this summer and purchased a lovely black cocktail dress from Banana Republic (very Audrey). However, I tend to be cold and it is a bit on the skimpy side. I have been trying to find a jacket or sweater to wear over it that won't dress it down too much, and I am having very little luck. Do you have any advice?
- Chic Coverage

A. When looking for a little coverage, a Pashmina wrap is not always the best answer. To complete your Audrey Hepburn look add a jacket or cardigan, but rather than keeping it black as well, choose a color or shine to stand out and embrace Spring.

1. Solid cashmere rosette cardigan, $188 at jcrew.com
2. Cotton-cashmere primrose cardigan, $98 at jcrew.com
3. Stardust sequin cardigan, $450 at jcrew.com
4. Metallic mosaic jacket, $300 at jcrew.com

Q. I have my cousin's wedding coming up in June and I can't decide on a style of dress to wear to the event. I am about 5'5", a little busty with large hips and a smaller waist; I typically wear a size 12. I definitely keep up with trends, so I would like something fashionable, preferably short. My budget is around $150 or less. Any suggestions?
- Stylish Dress

A. While we girls at StyleBakery.com totally rock when it comes to finding the best for less, it can still be a daunting task when it comes to a special occasion. I was able to find several choices that are available in size 12, wedding appropriate and under your budget.

1. Pink Charmeuse Floral Embellished Dresses, $94 at edressme.com
2. Maggy London Silk Chiffon Halter Dress, $98 at nordstrom.com
3. Suzi Chin Maggy Boutique Keyhole Matte Jersey Dress, $128 at nordstrom.com
4. Maggy London Chiffon Dress with Sash (available in 4 colors), $128 at nordstrom.com
5. Maggy London Bateau Neck Chiffon Dress, $138 at nordstrom.com
6. O Oscar Belted Dot-Hem Dress, $111.75 (sale) at macys.com

Q. Our good friends are getting married in Malibu in a beachside ceremony with an indoor reception, late afternoon to early evening. I just bought a sweet cotton Antonio Melani dress that's A-line and pale yellow, which I love, but I'm not sure where to go from here! I would love to incorporate another color (maybe turquoise?) or a print in the accessories. Help!
- Beach Bound

A. Yeah! A girl who wants to add more color and not just match it head to toe. I found several items from accessories to sandals that should add some sass and sophistication.

1. Tasha Butterfly Bangle, $48 at nordstrom.com
2. Juicy Couture 'Garden Party' Bracelet, $98 at nordstrom.com
3. Seychelles necklace, $150 at jcrew.com
4. double-strand jeweled-flower pearl necklace, $250 at jcrew.com

5. Nine West Argent, $83 at zappos.com
6. Betsey Johnson 'Fanny' Sandal, $165 at nordstrom.com
7. Linea Paolo 'Adella' Sandal, $99.95 at nordstrom.com
8. BCBGirls 'Saraff' Slingback Sandal, $109.95 at nordstrom.com

Q. I just bought a new button down white short sleeve shirt and I love the look of wearing a black belt with shirts although I've never tried it. I'm always at a loss with what type of belt to wear with shirts. Could you help me to find the perfect belt to go with my white button down shirt?
- Belted

A. This answer could not have been simpler. Anything goes with a classic white button down. A black belt is a safe bet, but don't stop there. Choose stripes, patents, bright colors or a neutral woven band to give your white shirt - and whatever you pair it with - distinction.

1. Women's Basic Leather Belts, $16.50 at oldnavy.com
2. Lacoste 201000, $64 at zappos.com
3. Silk resin-buckle belt, $34 at jcrew.com

4. Cynthia Rowley Patent Leather Belt, $42 at nordstrom.com
5. Lucky Brand Leather Embroidered, Perforated And Studded Belt, $2 at zappos.com
6. Splurge: Gucci Bamboo D-Ring Buckle Belt, $315 at saks.com

Q. I love the all the metallic out there - bags, shoes, belts, even clothes, and have bought a few pieces for Spring & Summer. How much metallic is too much? And what to wear when wearing a metallic accessory? For example if I wear bronze shoes, I would assume that a metallic handbag is too much. Likewise, if I'm carrying a beautiful bronze or silver tote, handbag or clutch, do I go with a neutral shoe?
- Bronzed in Boston

A. You really do love your metallic. The old rules of accessories used to be that one always matched their bag and shoe color, but that doesn't necessarily apply today. I believe that as long as the bag and shoes are not bright shiny metallic you can get away with pairing a metallic shoe and bag. Err on the side of subtlety. I have no problem wearing strappy metallic sandals and carrying a metallic clutch for evening. Think of metallic as a new form of a classic piece in your wardrobe, but they have to be used conservatively like you would and animal print. More than one or two pieces at a time can be too much.

Q. Can you make some suggestions on what to wear to a wedding in late May in Florida? The ceremony will be on the beach and the reception is going to take place on a boat and it is bound to be HOT & HUMID in Florida that time of year. I have several black dresses that I could wear but I am concerned that will look to formal and "dark" for this event. - Cool in Heat

A. The weather will most likely be hot, so to help avoid a sweaty brow and underarms, skip the black dress which will soak up the sun's heat and look for a dress in a fun, bright color and preferably sleeveless or strapless. Since the ceremony and reception are more casual and are water related, keep the length of the dress to somewhere between mini and cocktail just in case you get a chance to cool your toes in the water.

1. Cotton cady strapless Claudine dress (available in 10 colors), $260 at jcrew.com
2. Milly Nautical Print Rope Halter Dress, $412 at bloomingdales.com

Q. What jewelry and accessories look best with white on white? I am going to a white on white party (which is a color I never wear) and need help with accessories and jewelry tips?
- Wear with White

A. While you'll wear white on top and bottom, there's no need to be a walking cotton ball. You can follow the invitation request, but still inject a bit of style by choosing accessories that have a pop of color. Choose a necklace, a cuff bracelet and sandals that effortlessly "work" with white and help you stand out just a bit from the wall-to-wall white at the party.

1. Wide hand-painted enamel zebra bangle, $68 at jcrew.com
2. Hand-painted enamel seahorse bangle, $78 at jcrew.com
3. Resin floral necklace, $59 at bananarepublic.com
4. Anchor pendant necklace, $32 at bananarepublic.com

5. BCBG Max Azria Ceren, $198 at piperlime.com
6. Rafe New York Wendy, $245 at piperlime.com
7. Nau‏ghty Monkey Sugar Pop, $64 at zappos.com
8. Delman Lane-Gpm, $249 (sale) at zappos.com

Q. Your site is great. Here is my fashion conundrum: I spend a lot of time in a coffee shop, working on my laptop. People I know see me there all the time. What should I wear? I need something comfortable, but not shlumpy in a tracksuit or jeans (which I wear now). Also, the air conditioner indoors bothers me after awhile, so I usually - even in the summer time - wear my track jacket. Thanks for your help!
- Coffee Shop Girl

A. You need comfort and style so you can fit into the coffee shop work mode, but not look like you don't care. Skip the jeans once in a while and pull on cotton pants in colors from khaki to navy to grey. Skip white since you'll be concerned about spilling your coffee or getting wrinkled after sitting for several hours. As for what to wear for that chill that occurs with indoor air conditioning, choose thin knit cardigans and thin jackets that are sporty, but colorful. You want a little coverage that when you don't need it can easily be folded up and tucked into your bag.

1. Egyptian cotton V-neck cardigan (available in 8 colors), $88 at jcrew.com
2. Featherweight merino ruffle cardigan (available in 12 colors), $88 at jcrew.com
3. DKNY pure DKNY Long Sleeve Easy Jacket, $125 at shopbop.com
4. Vince Cricket Cardigan, $215 at shopbop.com

5. Vince Wide Leg Pant, $225 at shopbop.com
6. Loomstate Maiden Twill Pant, $150 at tobi.com
7. James Perse Casual Trouser, $175 at tobi.com

Q. I am looking for a nice, roomy and stylish tote to take on board flights.
- Under the Seat

A. I buy a new bag to bring on board 1-2 times a year. The leather ones usually get scuffed up so I look for bags that can carry all my essentials such as a laptop, magazines, a book, toiletries and a bottle of water. If you travel often you'll want a bag that will carry all of your needs and will be strong enough to hold all your gear, as well as have straps that fit over your shoulder. It's good to have a bag that you won't mind a few scratches or marks on after constantly fitting it under the seat.

1. Elite Gym Bag at lulemon athletica
2. Stella McCartney for LeSportsac 'Everyday' Tote, $350 at nordstrom.com
3. Franco Sarto Block Party Tote,$83 at zappos.com
4. Cole Haan Brogue A Line Tote, $354 at zappos.com
5. Diane Von Furstenberg Solid Hearts 18" Boarding Bag, $99.99 at ebags.com

Q. I am 30 y/o and will be going on vacation to Europe in 2 weeks. I have to dress to impress the people who will meet me while I want to be comfortable and stylish on the plane. I am thinking about wearing leggings with a tunic, flats and trench coat. But I would like to add a cardigan since it might be cold on the plane. Do you have any suggestions?
- Cold Case

A. A tunic, leggings and flats are the ideal travel wardrobe for a trip to Europe. You'll be comfortable and will avoid any constricting clothing. Bring along a light wrap like one from our favorite, Love Quotes, to wear when the trench is not needed. I've found several cardigan styles from long to wrap, cashmere to cotton.

1. Love Quotes Italian Linen Scarf, $85 at tobi.com
2. Citronella coat, $119.99 (sale) at jcrew.com
3. Summerweight cashmere cardigan (available in 14 colors), $158 at jcrew.com
4. Soft Drapey Tie Front Top, $74 at boden.com
5. Joie Dark Grey Heather Roxy, $295 at fashionchateau.com

Q. I'm attending two weddings this summer. I bought two cocktail length Ann Taylor strapless dresses, one light green with a light flower pattern and one navy blue. I'm planning on wearing black peep toe satin high heels. My problem now is that I don't know what I can wear to cover my shoulders in church and when it gets a bit cold in the evening. I was thinking about a Pashmina but my friend said the fabric of the Pashmina is too rough with the satin of the dresses. My question now is what should I get to wear with the dresses? I would like to get something I can wear with both dresses and that isn't too pricy. Also what color of purse should I look for?
- Cover Up for Weddings

A. We girls at StyleBakery are big fans of Love Quotes scarves in a mix of linen and viscose which is soft and light weight enough to wear with satin. They come in countless colors so you can choose to wrap yourself in a neutral color or add a punch of color to add the happiness of the occasion. As for a clutch to pair with your dresses look for a pale gold metallic or a neutral beige/cream.

Q. I have a friend who is getting married in June. Instead of a rehearsal dinner, he and his finance are having a cocktail party at a chic, contemporary Manhattan restaurant/bar. I was hoping you could provide suggestions on appropriate attire. I am petite, about 5'2" with an average to small build.
- Contemporary Look

A. A cocktail party calls for fun, flirty, feminine attire. I suggest a dress that is mini or knee length for your petite figure or a camisole style top with a little jacket and a pencil skirt. Add heels that are either strappy or peep toe.

Q. I just got the cutest pair of black skinny jeans and I finally feel confident enough to pull them off - what should I pair with them? I need help making them acceptable for casual Fridays at work and for Saturday nights out!
- Cute and Skinny

A. You have multiple options for both occasions. For work, think stylish, but slightly conservative. Add a fitted blazer style jacket with colorful top underneath and for evenings it's anything goes from fitted tops with a wide belt at the waist or hip skimming blouson tops to create a "leggings" look with your jeans. I found several options for both days.

1. Python-print Lucia jacket, $168 at jcrew.com
2. Metallic jacquard jacket, $268 at jcrew.com

3. Whisper lamé Zoey tank, $88 at jcrew.com
4. Amanda Uprichard Tuxedo Ruffle Top in Purple, $172 at pinkmascara.com
Swap out the tie belt and add a wide belt:
5. French Connection Tunic with Belt , $98 at jbandme.com
6. Truly Madly Deeply Printed Babydoll, $28 at urbanoutfitters.com

Q. I saw you for the first time on The View when you did the Playtex bra episode that aired March 27th. I'm a 34A. I have an interview in May and would like to know where I can buy a stylish but comfortable suit that isn't too expensive. The position is for a didactic instructor in a School of Allied Health. I live in Omaha, NE. I'm 41 years old, 5'5" and weigh 135lbs. I like brown, black and navy - are those colors okay?
- Suited for Teacher

A. Brown, Black and navy are ideal colors for a suit. You may even want to consider khaki as another neutral to add to your wardrobe. For a good quality, affordable option search the chain stores like J. Crew , Banana Republic , Club Monaco and Ann Taylor . For a slightly pricier classic, shop for Theory, which can be found in better department stores. Be sure to add a pop of color in the shirt you wear underneath the jacket.

Q. I love shoes but since I'm still in school, I have a tight budget. I was ecstatic when I bought these affordable olive wooden wedges from Target! Even though I love them to death, I have no idea what to pair them with. Would they look better with pants or a dress? What about with tights?
- Wear With What?

A. Your new stylish, budget bought wedges will work with skirts, dresses, slim cropped pants and even cuffed shorts. But no tights; these wedges are a warm weather sandal with too many open areas to pull off tights.

Q. I'm someone who is bottom heavy with a slight Buddha belly and muscular thighs, but a tiny waist. (I wear a 12 on the bottom, but usually a 6-8 on top) I love the way side-tie bikini bottoms are so forgiving and help hide any unsightly bulges in the hip area. However, everywhere I seem to go, the front is always super tiny, even if the back offers full coverage. My question is are there any side-tie bottoms out there that offer fuller coverage in the front?
- Cover my Front

A. Check out my latest swimwear style recipe for additional options, but I shopped for a few options specifically for you.

1. Ruched Swim Bottom, $48 at martinandosa.com
2. Lux Racing Stripe Bikini Bottom, $29.99 at urbanoutfitters.com
3. Ralph Lauren Sport Skirted Halter Bikini, $87 at nordstrom.com
4. O'Neill Citrus Stripe Bottom, $44.50 at alloy.com

Q. I'm a stay-at-home mom of 2 little boys. I recently bought myself a nice pair of brown pinstripe pants on a splurge. They are the only nice pants I own that fit me. The last three "dressy" occasions I attended, my sister-in-law was in the mix of people. Is it terrible if I wear the same pants each time? Should I just tell her the situation? I typically spend my days in jeans. Over the last four years I have fluctuated between maternity clothes, post baby sizes (starting at 10) all the way to my current size 2. We're planning on having another baby soon, so I don't want to invest in too many "nice" clothes that I will rarely get to wear. Any ideas to mix it up?
- Same Pair

A. Don't fret over wearing the same nice pants to several parties; men do it all the time with suits to the office. The best way to mix it up is to always wear a different top when seeing the same guests and choose eye-catching jewelry to additionally distract friends, particularly your sister-in-law. You don't have to worry about size with jewelry so you can be a two or a ten and still wear a cool necklace.

1. Diane von Furstenberg Austral Halter Top, $185 at saks.com
2. TOMMY HILFIGER Paisley Pleated Top, $59.50 at macys.com
3. Beach necklace, $64 at bananarepublic.com
4. Bubble necklace, $150 at jcrew.com
5. Subversive® for Target® Cameo Multi-Row Necklace, $59.99 at target.com

Q. I am so glad to have found your website. It is truly amazing, and you give great advice. I am going to be attending a 4-day conference soon, and towards the end of the conference, there will be a banquet for all of the attendees. The dress code is semi-formal and I have NO idea what to wear. I don't really wear dresses, so any other options would be great.
- Not Knowing

A. You can vamp it up and look stylish without wearing a dress by pairing tuxedo-style pants with a fancy top.

1. Diane von Furstenberg 'Gavin' Tuxedo Pants, $194.90 (sale) at nordstrom.com
2. Lafayette 148 Analisa Silk Blouse, $177.90 at saks.com
3. Robert Rodriguez Ruffle Top, $264 at eluxury.com
4. 3.1 Phillip Lim Leaf-Embroidered Blouse, $345 at eluxury.com
5. 3.1 Phillip Lim Draped-Sleeve Tee, $175 at eluxury.com

Q. I'm going to a formal military ball and unless I go buy a dress, I only have 3 long dresses choose from. Unfortunately, they're all velvet dresses, although very thin material. One is long sleeved, one is short sleeved and the last has no sleeves. I live in Colorado and the evening will be cool to cold in temperature. What do you suggest?
- Long Dress

A. While Colorado still has some snow I hesitate to say go ahead and wear the velvet. Velvet is truly a late fall, winter fabric. And remember the ball will be indoors. Indoor formal events are a chance to wear a great dress with heels and not be expected to wear hosiery or covered toes.

Q. I have been so inspired by all of your bridesmaid tips. I am narrowing down bridesmaid dress choices for my wedding next April. I think the silk chiffon Sophia dress by J Crew in bright aquamarine or maybe tulip - (haven't decided) is most likely the dress I'll go with, since it seems to be pretty flattering for the body types of all my bridesmaids and it's a good price, to boot. The question that remains is shoes! I am considering letting the girls choose their own, but I'd like to give them a color to make them look somewhat uniform. Bad idea? I'm thinking gold or silver... any suggestions? I love the look of a d'orsay heel, but I'm not sure if that will be appropriate for a springtime, late-afternoon wedding (indoors). Please advise! Thank you!
- Shoe Clueless

A. For either dress, gold or silver will work and as I've said in the past, it's a help to your bridesmaids cash flow to offer them the opportunity to buy their own shoes in your color of choice. They may already own one of these metallic colors and if not, a metallic heel is certainly a must-have in a girl's shoe closet. I've found a few options that will work with the dresses once you make your color choice. While d'orsay heels are stylish enough for indoors or outdoors, they are not so readily available in multiple choices of metallic as sandals are each season. So perhaps keep the options open.

1. Matisse 'Elvey' Pump, $114.95 at nordstrom.com
2. Liza patterned d'Orsays, $195 at jcrew.com

3. Charles by Charles David 'Pandora' Metallic Sandal, $66.90 (sale) at nordstrom.com
4. Lucie high heels, $168 at jcrew.com
5. Caparros Jalena, $65 at piperlime.com