June 2008 Archives

Q. I am getting married in September, and I plan to change out of my official, very heavy, wedding dress into a more fun, easy to dance in dress. Can you recommend a great second dress? I should mention this is a VERY formal affair. - Formal Seconds

A. If you're thinking about dancing, then you have to choose long or short and I'm a fan of changing from a gown to a dress of less weighty material and shorter length. I adore Monique Lhuillier for her ethereal ready to wear dress collections that easily can star in the second act of your wedding. Other designers to consider for the second dress would be Vera Wang and 3.1 Philip Lim - he has a white Grecian style dress that is gorgeous from his spring collection.


1. moniquelhuillier.com
2. moniquelhuillier.com
3. Chiffon Halter Dress at neimanmarcus.com

Q. I'm 5'2, usually a size 2, and I'm trying to figure out what length of shorts or capris will be most flattering. I don't want to look stumpy or shorter than I am. I think I have pretty nice legs for a 30 year old, but also want to dress appropriately for work, vacations, or for chasing around my infant son. - Short Sized

A. For petite gals like you, the longer the capri pants, the better. Look for styles that are straight leg styles, not wide, and that hit just above your ankle. This will still give the impression of length. I just picked up two bright pairs from Club Monaco, one teal and one red that can easily transition in look just by swapping flats for wedge sandals at night. They are an ideal length and style.

As for shorts, skip the long styles and choose shorter lengths, specifically ones that have 3-5" inseams or ones that stop at mid thigh. If you have good legs, then don't cover them up with Bermuda or walking shorts since those will just stunt your height. If you intend to wear shorts to work, then opt for a mid thigh pair and be sure to pair the shorts with a conservative top like a button down shirt tucked in and a fitted cotton or linen blazer.


1. Petite city-fit stretch chino café capri, $79.50 at jcrew.com 2. Theory Women's Whythe Radar Ankle Pants, $215 at bloomingdales.com 3. Chino 5" short, $39.50 at jcrew.com

Q. I had to buy these "Minx" shoes by Luichiny ($88.95 at amazon.com). It was an impulse - buy now, figure it out later. Now I'm having trouble figuring out what to wear with them other than a plain black short dress. I do know that I should go with basic and simple.

- What Now?

A. Basic and simple does not mean that the look has to be boring or a solid color to wear with your new embellished heels. I envision a black and white patterned, fitted sheath dress or a pencil skirt worn with a flowy ruffled top. Tops from designers like Geren Ford, Diane Von Furstenberg or Tucker would work or a dress from Alice + Olivia. Here are some ideas:


1. Alice + Olivia Polka Dot Tulip Dress, $330 at shopbop.com
2. Alice + Olivia Pleated Puff Dress, $495 at shopbop.com
3. Maggy London Print Silk Twill Shift Dress, $148 at nordstrom.com
4. Milly Cotton Jacquard Dress, $385 at nordstrom.com
5. Black and White Cotton Dresses by Tibi, $360 at edressme.com
6. Alexander Wang Seersucker Silk & Wool Dress, $650 at nordstrom.com (expensive, but so chic!)

Q. I am going to a summer wedding and need some advice on my outfit. I purchased a pewter color dress from J Crew to wear to it, but my dilemma is the accessories. I want something to make the outfit pop. I was thinking some marigold yellow color shoes and a Pashmina might be nice...do you have any suggestions?
-Pop in Pewter

A. You'll surely help your look pop by adding bright colored strappy sandals. I found multiple choices in yellow and blue online at shops like zappos.com, nordstrom.com and jcrew.com.

Q. My favorite tank top from last summer was Susana Monaco. When I went to buy another one for this summer, I realized she changed the styles and no longer makes the one that fit me perfectly. Any secrets to finding leftovers from last year?
-Tanked Last Year

A. That can be nearly impossible when the item is a year old. While many chain retail stores like J.Crew and Banana Republic make the same tees and tanks each year, designers like Susana Monaco have to keep their designs fresh. Best bet is to try some of her newer styles or find a tank top from another designer and if you love it, buy two. Or as a last resort try ebay.com, but for a tank it may not be worth the auction.
Here are two possible replacements from the same designer:




left: Susana Monaco Jennifer Tank Tunic, $113 at shopbop.com



right: Susana Monaco Urban Gather Tank, $102 at shopbop.com

Q. You've been a big help before, now I'm wondering what to wear for an internship in downtown Washington DC this summer. They have told me that business casual is the norm for the office but I'm wondering what that exactly entails. Are open toed sandals normally okay? I'm a big fan of printed skirts, can one of those be worn?
-Business Curious

A. Generally, a company that says business causal is not expecting you to wear a conservative business suit. This will give you more stylish options. Printed skirts paired with flattering tops are an ideal fashion choice for your internship. And open toed sandals should be fine, but perhaps wear a pump or peep toe the first day and take a look at the staff to get a sense of what the rest of the team is wearing. If you have any questions always look to a stylishly dressed superior for company policy guidance.

Here are a few business casual looks from jcrew.com:

Q. Summer is here and I can't wait to be out of school and done with "teacher clothes" for a few months. I'm looking for a pair of white pants to wear to daytime social events (backyard parties), but would prefer them to be chic and sexy enough that I can wear them out at night. Also, I'm on a tight budget, so I would appreciate some suggestions under $50.
-Tight Budget in White

A. You need a pair of white pants that work day and night. And best bets for finding a pair within your budget of under $50 is to stick with the large retail chains like oldnavy.com, gap.com, delias.com and target.com. I was able to find several pairs that should fulfill your needs to go from casual get-togethers to chic parties:

Q. I am trying to decide what to wear for a 7-day honeymoon to Greece (specifically Santorini and Athens) in July. I want some flirty, sexy, stylish, yet comfortable outfits for the hot weather there. We will be doing a couple dressy dinners, sightseeing, laying by the pool and walking along the beach, and maybe going out to a bar/club. I want to look chic and hip--it's my honeymoon! I am a 25-year-old size 4/6 with a larger bust (34D). Any suggestions on what I could buy and pack for this trip? Thank you so much!

-Honeymoon to Greece

A. I, too, am headed to Greece this summer for nine days so I'll share some of my packing list along with a few suggestions regarding your specific needs.

I'm packing:

• Three bikinis Maxi dress
• White cotton sundress and a brown braided leather belt
• Cotton patterned tunic to wear with shorts and as a cover up
• Three pairs of shorts-two short in length, one mid thigh
• Four tank tops-two solid, two striped
• Two white v-neck t-shirts
• White eyelet top
• Patterned cotton camisole
• Two skirts that are above the knee-one patterned, one solid color
• One pair of lightweight cotton ankle skimming cropped pants (mine are teal color)
• Wide floppy brimmed hat from Hat Attack
• Flip-flops
• Tan slip on flats from Cole Haan
• Gold gladiator sandals
• Lots of sunscreen

TIP: Be sure to pick up a handmade pair of sandals made to fit your feet while you're there
Some more ideas:

Q. I recently bought this pair of shorts from Anthropologie. I'm having trouble finding a shirt of the right length and style to go with them. Most of my t-shirts are too long, and look lumpy when they cover up the sash, but they look weird tucked in. Do you have any suggestions? I'm 5' 4" and a size 4.
- Shirts for Shorts

A. I shopped multiple sites and found looks that were fitted enough to look smooth and stylish when tucked into your new shorts. I also made a point of shopping for colored tops to show you the variety of colors and patterns that will work with the shorts rather than playing it safe with white tanks and t-shirts. And a quick tip, be willing to swap out the belt once in a while (assuming it is not attached) and wear a different belt like a stripe or pattern to get even more mileage from your shorts.

Q. I have my 10-year reunion coming up and purchased a fabulous Milly zebra printed dress (I have attached a picture). I am only 5'3" so the dress isn't quite so short on me, but with the sleeveless shape, I am concerned about shoes. I do not want to look too tart-y!
- Reunion Blues

A. We all obsess over making a grand impression at our reunions. We want to look cool and hip, young and stylish. We want to make ex-boyfriends think of us fondly and the snotty girls jealous, and mostly catch up with the old crowd we haven't seen in years while still looking good. I found several options that range from very hip to straight forward classy.

Q. I've attached a photo of my wedding dress by Maggie Sottero (color shown in Pearl Rose) and unsure of what color veil I should wear. In fact, I'm even questioning if a veil would be appropriate for this dress, as I'd be afraid it's too overpowering. I have received so many opinions and I am completely lost! I'd appreciate your input.
- Overwhelm or Appeal

A. My input is this: skip the veil. I agree with those friends who said it could be overpowering. I like the look of a flower, real or faux, or a jeweled or decorative hair comb. I had a milliner make a large, off-white fake flower with beautiful beading and attach it to a comb that could be hidden within my hair. I received many compliments and I was glad to have chosen something original.

Q. I have really enjoyed the new abundance of navy items in stores lately and particularly love to wear my low navy wedge/peep-toes with my jeans because they create such a long, lean look for my petite frame. However, the shoes are suede and I live in south Florida. Every time I put them on I wonder if they're appropriate for summer in our very warm climate. Is suede a summer-appropriate finish? If not, can you recommend some cute shoes with a slight heel in navy that would work with my jeans? I love the Tory Burch navy flat, but that's just it- they're flat! I need a boost for my short self.
- Need a Navy Lift

A. Suede in the south Florida heat can be a bit of an irony in your wardrobe, but many designers have offered lighter colors in suede sandals for summer like powder blue, orange, etc. Since yours are navy, I'd suggest shopping for a navy wedge in another fabric for those 90-degree days and keep the suede for those slightly lower temps in October for when it's a "chilly" 70 degrees. I found a few wedges that should keep you looking long and lean in your jeans.

1. Fitzwell Anaya, $69 at zappos.com
2. Sam Edelman's Women's Finny, $79.99 at shoes.com

Q. I need HELP! So, I just purchased this fabulous boat neck silk dress from J Crew. It's the Python Print Silk Dress. Now, some may think I'm crazy for such a wild print, but I'm a redhead so the color of the dress is a find in itself! I was wondering what color shoes would work? I'm hoping to carry these mystery shoes into early fall for a rehearsal dinner as well. I plan ahead. I'm an event planner, its what I do!
- Pythons Need Shoes Too

Q. How would you recommend I accessorize this Banana Republic dress? It's obviously Navy inspired but I don't want it to look like a costume or a tennis outfit. What color/size bag should I carry with it? I'm unable to wear heels due to a recent foot surgery, so are ballet flats my best bet or would a cute pair of tennis shoes be too much?
- Shoe Troubled

A. What you wear - whether it be ballet flats, low-heeled sandals or cute kicks - should all depend on what activity you plan to do and with whom you'll be with. For running around comfort choose cute "kicks" not meant for the gym and for days when you want to wear the dress for nicer occasions then pair it with ballet flats or sandals. As for a bag, that too depends on what your needs are for the day, but I would lean towards medium size to carry your daily essentials.

Q. I just bought a really cute dress from Anthropologie to wear to a wedding reception. The reception isn't overly formal, sort of a hip party. It's a halter style dress, smoky grey on the top, rust and cream mild graphic print from the bust down and a rust color tie around the waist. I'm struggling a bit with what shoes & accessories to wear. I've tried a few orange shoes, but they are too florescent orange for the dress. I ordered some grey peep toe pumps, but haven't received them yet. I also thought about gold or pewter. What are your thoughts on shoe colors and a purse?
- Dress it Up

A. I adore the idea of brightening the dress look head to toe by daring to wear orange/rust heels. Although I don't know the actual color of the belt, I found a few colors that may work. If your search is fruitless, the best next choice would be a grey heel and I'm digging some of the patent styles from this season.

Q. I have a wool and polyester pair of solid color medium grey pants from Sarah Jessica Parker's Bitten clothing line and I wanted to know if I can wear a khaki blazer with the pants. The blazer is fitted and it's short but not short like a bolero jacket and the material is cotton twill. And what other colors and materials can I wear with these grey pants? I have a pair of black pants and seem to have no trouble matching those with colors! I also should say that I will be wearing the pants while working in an office whose dress code is business casual.
- Grey Color Blind

A. Think of grey as a neutral that can be paired with almost any color. As long as the blazer is thicker cotton twill you should be fine wearing it with your grey pants to the office. Going forward pair your grey pants with lavender, purple, greens, a variety of blues from teal to turquoise, even red and pastels as well as hot pinks will work. It's just a matter of deciding which of those colors look most flattering with your skin tone.

Q. I bought this dress to wear to my bridal shower being held this summer. The dress comes to just above my knee (in the picture it is shorter). What shoes can I wear with this dress?
- Shoe Need

A. Since it's your bridal shower, it's not necessarily an event to sport stilettos. Your dress is sweet, but not overly dressy. I'd suggest a mid height metallic heel or wear a bright spring color like a yellow sandal.

The Dress: Evan Picone Pleated Dot-Print Dress, $99 at amazon.com

1. Lumiani Fawn, $170 at zappos.com
2. Twyla midheels, $175 at jcrew.com
3. BCBGirls Albania, $89 at piperlime.com

Q. I am 46 years old. Can I wear a long sleeve black blouse made of rayon/spandex to a birthday party when the weather turns warm? What would be a good color for pants and shoes?
- Black in Spring

A. Black is never out of fashion or stuck in one season, however many of us just excited to embrace color once the weather gets warmer. So if it is a tres chic top then wear it to the party. And pair it with a black pants and a colorful beaded necklace, or a white and black print skirt for a bold expression. Add metallic heels to complete the party look.

Q. I have been addicted to your website for years. It is so helpful for many reasons. I am writing to you for advice on finding a bathing suit. I am a 34D sometimes DD, but a size 6 on bottom. I am having the hardest time finding appropriate bathing suits (I am 38 years old) that don't make me look pregnant in the middle, but fit nicely in the breast area. I usually wear halter type tankini's, but lately the cuts are so low that I feel like I have to squeeze into it. Any suggestions or ideas on where to find decent bathing suits that are made for a woman and not a young girl?
- Suit Yourself from Long Island

A. I found several options that will fit a size D-DD cup size and offer coverage so you don't feel uncomfortable at the beach or pool. Sites like jcrew.com and figleaves.com offer swimwear sections specifically for D-cups and you can buy separates to insure you get the right support on top and the coverage on your bottom half. Don't forget to check out our swim style recipe with more swimsuit tips and suggestions.

Q. I recently bought some black high-waist (skinny) pants that I really love, but every time I think about wearing them I change my mind because I can't find the right top. I want to tuck the shirt in to accentuate the high waist (naval level). I like the way the proportions look when I wear them with my J.Crew v-neck t-shirts, but it's just too boring to wear a solid color on top and on bottom! Can you recommend some short-sleeve shirts that will liven up the look?
- Liven my Look

A. While it's simple to tuck in a t-shirt or slim fitting tank, here are a few other options that will tuck into or still show off the high rise of your skinny pants. Don't hesitate to wear a top that skims over your hips and add a wide or skinny belt at your waist, or tuck in a top and wear a belt over the waistband of the pants.