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.
( have a style question? email us )
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
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