Q. I’m always running around for my job in sales and I’m in search of a really stylish yet roomy tote bag to carry my materials, can you recommend some?
A. What you need is a lightweight tote with a strap that’s long enough to fit over your shoulder. Here are some options that are sure to impress your clients:
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’ve been seeing a lot of pictures of celebrities wearing chokers. Is this trend coming back? Please say no!
A. You’ve got a keen eye! Like it or not, chokers and collars are indeed making a comeback — at least for another season or two, having been spotted on the Spring 2012 runways at shows like Charlotte Ronson, Donna Karan, and Elie Tahari. No need to fear this trend, the new chokers are far more fashionable than the ones you remember from the late ’80s and early ’90s. Ranging from chain link chokers to Cleopatra-esque collars, the one thing the new chokers have in common: they make a statement. Try one of these chic options with a plunge neck dress or a classic button down shirt.
Q. I love your editorial pieces on the classics (especially when you give several options in each category to really help build the staples of a wardrobe). I noticed that you did a piece in 2009 and again in 2010 but not yet in 2011. I love your picks from the archives but all the items are sold out, understandably. With our economy, I think a lot of readers (not just me) would really appreciate another round of the timeless classics since they anchor a wardrobe and never go out of style - essential investment pieces.
A. I’m thrilled to hear that you found our classics series to be so helpful! To underscore the timelessness of a classic wardrobe, our top 10 list hasn’t changed from the list we featured 1 1/2 years ago (read here: The Classics: 10 Pieces for a Timeless Wardrobe). True that it’s time for an updated shopping selection, here are some pieces to add now to your wardrobe, and wear forever:
1. Pencil Skirt
2. Blazer
3. Trench Coat
4. Cardigan
5. Feminine Blouse
6. Little Black Dress
7. Dark Jeans
8. Statement Necklace
9. Classic Pumps
10. 24 Hour Handbag
Q. I have a few looser fitting dresses and tees (solids and prints) that I feel would be more figure flattering with a belt or a tie. I’m having a hard time finding one that would work. I don’t want anything too wide as I’m short and petite. Any ideas?
A. My favorite way to tame a blousy shirtdress or loose-fitting t-shirt dress this summer is with a skinny belt. Rachel McAdams spent virtually all of Midnight in Paris wearing a tunic-length button-down with a skinny belt or hip-slung 1” belt and it looked so effortlessly chic. Here are a few looks for inspiration:
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