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Q. My belt was lost to a trench coat. What do I use instead?

A. I love this question! There’s no rule that you need to use the matching belt that comes with your trench coat. Take a cue from these designers and use a stylish belt instead. Anything from a thick or skinny leather belt to fabric or rope tied around your waist works. You can even experiment with a scarf in a pretty print. Whether you match the color of your trench or go for a contrast, think of it as an opportunity to express your individual style and put your own spin on a classic trench. Here are some belts that can easily be swapped in with a basic trench:

Q. I have several solid cardigans (from J.Crew) in bright purples, blues and yellows. Because they are bright I don’t want to pair a bright, printed top with them, but I want something more that just a plain tank or tee. Do you have any ides for a solid tee or casual shirt that has some detail to it?

A. Your bright cardigans are a great way to add color to your fall/winter look. Even better, there are many options for what to wear underneath that are an upgrade from a basic tank or tee. Some ideas to try: a soft chambray button down, a printed blouse, a sequin tank, a tie-front blouse (this season’s must-have), a Peter Pan collar, or a soft drapey top. Look for neutral colors or brights that match well with your cardigan color, or opt for one of fall’s top trends and choose a contrasting bright color for a color-blocked look.

Here are some options for you:

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How to mix prints

Q. I loved your recent editorial piece on pattern mixing. I actually purchased the ASOS Irregular Striped Midi skirt (one of the featured items). I have not worn it yet because I was unsure what to pair it with but now I’d love to try it with a blouse in a contrasting print. Could you offer some suggestions?

A. Not only is this the perfect skirt to carry you over into fall, it’s also a great print to mix with other prints. Here are some tips to consider when mixing patterns:

1. Mix large prints with smaller prints. Since the skirt features a large graphic stripe print, it will pair easily with smaller prints.

2. Choose prints that match at least one color. The black in the skirt pairs well with a top that also includes black, especially as a background color.

3. Choose prints that are not similar to each other. The vertical stripe of the skirt should not be repeated in the top.

4. Prints that are not next to each other are easier to match. Since the skirt has an all-over print, it pairs easily with a top that only features a print on the upper half of it.

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Q. I’d like to know how old is too old to wear the bright, crayon colored skinny jeans that are so popular? I am 36 years old and a size 4. I really love the bright cobalt colored jeans and would like to buy a pair, however I don’t want to look like a cliche.

cobalt denim

A. In my opinion, you’re never too old to have fun with fashion — especially at 36 years old. Colorful jeans are a big trend this summer, carrying over into fall. If you love cobalt jeans, go for it! If you’re worried that they feel young, then pair them with more sophisticated pieces like a blazer and pumps or a cardigan and ankle boots.

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