Recently in Fashion Category

Q. I am 54 and going on a job interview. I have a black silk dress with matching blazer. How can I soften this look?

A. You have several options for softening up or adding style to a black work suit while still looking professional. A sophisticated, yet chic, necklace is a great option since it will bring focus to your face while you’re talking. Look for something strong, yet feminine, like a chunky beaded necklace or twisted strands of pearls. An alternative would be an artfully tied scarf, just make sure it looks stylish and not matronly. Keep your earrings small and subtle.

Depending on the cut of your dress and jacket, you can add a pop of color in the form of a belt. Wear the jacket closed with the belt around the outside of the jacket, or wear the jacket open and wear the belt around the waist of your dress.

You can also convey style with your shoes, there’s no rule saying you have to wear a basic black pump. Look for something professional, yet stylish and appropriate for an interview.

Seychelles Women’s Rave Review Cross Strap Pump $99 - Endless.com

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Croc-Embossed Leather To Patent Reversible Belt $42 - Macy’s

Dangling-pearl necklace $68 - J.Crew

Pearl-cluster necklace $125 - J.Crew

Brooch cluster necklace $98 - Banana Republic

Faceted collar necklace $80 - Banana Republic

Q. I am going to a party and bought a sequin blazer, but I dont really want to wear it with jeans. Are there any other options that would look glam?

A. Jeans are a great way to dress down a sequin jacket, but they are certainly not your only option. This season, a blazer worn with a flirty dress, like the chiffon frock shown below, is a modern and chic way to dress. Skinny pants paired with a pretty top and heels is another option, or you can go for a rocker look and opt for a tank or t-shirt paired with skinny black pants. Here are some looks for inspiration:

Torn white ‘Ann Foil Zebra’ racerback tank $45 - Bluefly

Ruffle Tank Top $17 - Charlotte Russe

ZiGiny Women’s Diva Heel $99 - Endless.com

Sleek Double Stitched Buckle Pant $98 - Bebe

Chiffon High Neck Dress $100 - Topshop

Black Sequin Blazer $168 - Free People

Q. I’m hoping you can help me! In 2 weeks, I am taking a trip to a nearby amusement park with my husband and family. We are staying overnight and spending the entire day at the park, and i want to look cute but I must be casual and practical. In the past couple of months, I have gained about 10 lbs and I am no longer comfortable in tight fitting tops - an adjustment I am still getting used to. Short shorts are also a no-no! I appreciate any help in helping me to feel stylish and comfortable, since I am at a loss as to what to wear! Thank you so much!!

A. I’m glad to hear you want to look stylish for a day at the amusement park with the family. Anything besides the oversized t-shirts, baggy shorts and athletic shoes Americans tend to wear is a refreshing change in my book! That being said, it’s also essential that you are dressed comfortably in clothing that allows you to have fun. Unfortunately, that means that a cute dress or skirt is off the table, since you don’t want to risk flashing people while enjoying the free fall roller coasters and aerial swings!

Since you’re also looking to conceal a little extra weight, my suggestion is to choose a pair of lean (not baggy) flat front Bermuda shorts that hit right above your knee, or a pair of cropped cargo pants. Pair these with a comfortable, cute and loose fitting t-shirt like the ones shown below. Add a pair of sandals you can walk for hours in and you’ve got an easy, cute and functional look for a day at the park. Have fun!

Women’s Ruched Scoop-Neck Tops $14 - Old Navy

Think! ‘Julia’ Thong Sandal $84 - Nordstrom

Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Perlita Wedge Sandal $64 - Endless.com

Crochet Babydoll Top $18 - Wet Seal

PARIS BLUES Cargo Womens Crop Pants $24 - Tilly’s

Merona Bermuda Shorts - Bonjour Brown $17 - Target

Q. I bought a pair of linen colored linen pants. Can you help me figure out what color shirt to wear? For example, can I do white even though the pants are more “Natural” in color? Or should I do a brown. And what about shoes? I have a great pair of bronze/bone slingbacks that look great with the pant, but again, don’t know what color shirt to wear with them.

A. The great thing about a natural colored linen pant is that it looks great with EVERYTHING. Crisp white paired with natural linen is a classic chic look, add in brown and bronze and you’ve got the timeless “safari” mix of hues. In addition to this neutral mix, natural linen looks great with pale blush colors, black and brights like turquoise, red, yellow, green, pink and orange, to name a few. Here is some inspiration for mixing colors with natural:

Q. I’m always on the search for a great t-shirt…my problem is that they usually aren’t long enough…any ideas??

A. Luckily, many brands are now making longer length (or tunic length) tees, we’ve featured a few below. Another option is to look for tees that come in tall sizes, like those from Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic. Finally, you can always layer a long tank underneath your tees to achieve the length you’re looking for along with a chic layered look.