Recently in Fashion Category

Q. I need more formal business suits – think Washington politico or federal agent.  I’ve been down the J.Crew and Banana Republic roads (I own a basic black Banana suit that I love), but where else should I look/try?
-Suit Search

A. Your suit may have to be conservative, but it doesn’t have to be boring.  Look for well-tailored, well fitting suits that step beyond dull box cuts.

1. Tahari by ASL Solid Skirt Suit, $140 (sale) at macys.com
2. Tahari by Arthur S. Levine Plaid Skirt Suit & Camisole, $320 at macys.com
3. GARFIELDMARKS Pinstripe Jacket, $394 and ‘Lori’ Pants, $194 at nordstrom.com
4. Theory "Andy Albers" Suit Jacket, Blouse, and Pants at bloomingdales.com

Q. I’m a 29-year-old attorney who loves cardigans!  I just went on a cardigan buying spree at J. Crew and now I own three more cardigans but they all have a three-quarter length sleeve.  Since it’s winter and I live in New York, I don’t want to wear a cami or a short sleeve blouse with them…  Can I wear a long sleeve button down shirt instead or are long sleeves a no-no?
-Long or Short



A. Long Sleeves are definitely a yes with a 3/4 sleeve cardigan. It can be especially chic with a pop of color like a shiny silk blouse or a patterned top. Generally, you should opt for a thin fabric so you don’t add unnecessary bulk underneath the cardigan.  Some suggestions:

1. Aqua Ruffle Front Bow Blouse, $31.20 (sale) at bloomingdales.com
2. Carte Blanche by Anja Flynt Long Sleeve Button Front Tunic in Ivory, $235 at couturecandy.com
3. Rag & Bone Wrap Neck Blouse, $168 (sale) at tobi.com
4. Munthe Plus Simonsen Rosalina Tunic, $175 (sale) at tobi.com

Q. Since LA isn’t very cold, I like to wear a sweater dress so I don’t have to take a jacket with me.   I had a question about how to dress up a gray scoop neck sweater dress or a dark navy blue cowl neck sweater dress.  Can I wear these with boots and tights?  If so, which color scheme would go best with this outfit.
-Cover Cozy

A. For gray, I like the idea of adding color or texture. Try opaque plum, olive green or a cable knit black or navy pattern and add knee high or ankle boots for complete coverage when heading out at night. For navy, go either with a navy hue for a sleek head to toe look and add patent leather heels in a color for a bit of attitude like burgundy or steel grey, or go for the chic contrast of black and navy by wearing opaque tights and adding a wide black belt at the waist.

Q. I’m trying to figure out what to pack for my three week honeymoon in Thailand. We will be on the beach most of the time, but spending a few days in Bangkok & Chiang Mai. We are going mid-February so temp will be in the 80s.
-Bliss Bound

A.  I am hooked on water bound vacations and have learned the ins and outs of packing, whether it’s low key surfing in Costa Rica or a relaxing boat trip in the Caribbean. The great part of a warm weather locale is that you can pack more since the pieces are thinner and take up less room in your bag. One big bag is enough, don’t pack more than 5 pairs of shoes (sandals, flip flops, etc.) and pack more sunscreen than you think you’ll need, or be willing to buy a few items when you travel. And consider using shampoo to wash intimates along the way to cut down on the amount of underwear and bras that you pack.

It gets quite humid during the middle of the day in Thailand so you may have to deal with the sweat factor. Don’t pack anything you may worry about perspiration stains setting in before you can get home to do a wash.

Packing List: