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Q. I bought my first pair of black leggings and I’ve been looking for months for a short dress or a tunic that would look cute with a large belt and leggings. I’d like to spend less than $30-$40…Do you have any suggestions?

A. Belting a sweater dress or tunic and pairing it with leggings creates a look that feels relaxed and comfortable but looks neat and pulled together (not sloppy). The key is to look for tops that are slim fitting and long enough to cover the bumpy areas on your thighs. Wear knee high boots or ankle boots to complete the look. Here are a few options for you:

Q. I have spent more money than I care to admit on body-shaping undergarments that either just don’t work or are so uncomfortable I take them off half-way through the night. I want a serious tummy-cincher that doesn’t roll down. Is there such a thing?

A. We know exactly what you mean - so many tummy shapers roll down or require constant adjusting. There are a few options for you that will stay put while trimming your tummy, and are even comfortable to boot!

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Yummie Tummie: Hip Length Shapewear Tank

This tank flawlessly slims your midsection and camouflages lumps and bumps. Its longer length means it won’t roll up while the tummy panel firmly shapes and smoothes bustline to hips.

$62 at barenecessities.com

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SPANX: Slim Cognito Shaping Mid-Thigh Bodysuit

This shaper comfortably slims your tummy, thighs and rear. It even accentuates your waistline! PLUS, Slim Cognito attaches to your own bra in four places so it won’t roll down.

$72 at barenecessities.com

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Flexees: Weightless Power Singlet

This body briefer is made of sleek, stretch microfiber that shapes and slims from bust to thighs with a two-ply tummy panel for extra control. One piece styling will never roll. Wear your own bra underneath.

$50 at barenecessities.com

_5692207.jpgQ. I just bought these fabulous strappy shoes. As the weather gets cooler, I would like to keep wearing them… I have seen similar shoes in catalogs with models wearing them with tights. Can I wear them with jeans or slacks barefoot? When is it appropriate to wear footless tights?

A. You most definitely can wear these shoes with tights in cool weather. As for going barefoot and wearing them with jeans, it depends on the weather where you live and how comfortable you will be. The latest J Crew catalog is filled with sandals and pants or jeans worn without hosiery (see image below). In real life, though, it’s easier to get away with the barefoot look when you are getting dressed up for an evening out than for daily running around or dressing for the office. As for footless tights or leggings, the same rules apply as going barefoot.

Our advice? If you’re not entirely comfortable, it’s much safer to wear tights.

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Q. I am writing on behalf of the women of Northern Climes who want a winter boot that really is warm and weatherproof and also stylish. No tall heels or flat slick soles because we walk on icy sidewalks and no thin leather because it isn’t warm enough when you also have to wade through the snow that hasn’t been shoveled or plowed. There are great winter clothes and beautiful coats, but where are the functional boots that aren’t ugly? I hate carrying office shoes while I wear Sorrell’s to commute—it’s the winter equivalent of tennis shoes with business attire. I’ve considered some interesting quilted boots from Norway, but surely someone here must have a solution.

A. You’re right, finding a pair of stylish snow boots can be a challenge. Aquatalia makes some beautiful weatherproof shoes, many of them with warm linings. Below are some options that fit the bill: chic, warm and waterproof. Several of the styles can be worn with your work attire, though we still suggest you switch to a pair of indoor shoes when you get to the office instead of wearing your slushy winter boots all day.


Q. What are the rules for wearing black opaque tights with colored shoes? I keep seeing pictures of models with this combination, but what about in real life? I have a pair of royal blue patent peep toe wedges I’d love to wear, which I think I can get by with, and also a pair of tan peep toe heels with an ankle strap, is the tan too much of a stretch?

A. Opaque tights are a great way to wear peep toe styles in cooler weather. You can wear dark tights with dark shoes for a classic, leg elongating look, or opt for contrasting colors for a fun, modern look. Colorful tights paired with dark shoes or dark tights paired with colored shoes (like your blue patent wedges) add style to any outfit. For your tan peep toes, experiment with colors other than black, like gray (shown below) or cranberry. Textured tights can add another layer of interest to your look.
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