Q. I recently purchased a Velvet (brand, not fabric) deep-V, sleeveless, empire waist, black dress. I live in Minnesota, and would like to wear it out for the evening. Would it be okay to wear a Michael Stars burgundy sparkle turtleneck under it? Is there anything else you could suggest? I don’t have any fitted jackets or cropped sweaters.
-Wear it in Winter
A. Layering is key when it comes to extending our wardrobe from winter to spring and summer. Consider layering with a turtleneck sweater, v-neck top or even a collared button down shirt - think chic preppy. Add a long necklace that dangles as long as the deep v of the dress for extra lengthening effect. In many cases, it all comes down to trial and error. So try on the sparkled turtleneck and if you like it then wear it. Confidence can win most style battles.
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Q. I am attending a black tie evening event in NYC at the end of March. Average high and low temperatures around that time are 52 and 36 degrees, respectively. So, I think there’s a good chance that it’ll be quite chilly (for a Southerner). But, it IS late March. Can I wear a long sleeve velvet burnout dress to this event? My alternative is a black sleeveless cocktail dress with asymmetrical hem (of polyester). I’m not sure what sort of wrap would complement it AND provide some warmth.
-Burned Out
A. You are stretching it with the event at the end of March. It is a lovely dress. Perhaps if you wear open toed heels like in the photo and pray for cold you can get a way with it. Best bet is to pack both and check the temperatures that night. Since you’ll be indoors for the event, a little black jacket, beaded cardigan or soft wrap will do for keeping the chill off with the sleeveless dress when you’re seated.
dress: Sutton Studio Exclusive Long Burnout Dress, $119 (sale) at bloomingdales.com
Q. This Spring, I will be attending a large gathering of writers and book industry professionals. Each author will be given exactly two minutes to get up before the crowd of over a hundred and pitch their book in order to secure invitations to book fairs across the country—and I’m one of the authors. This is hugely important for my career as a novelist, and I want to give the right impression. I’m 34 and petite. I’d love to look professional but stylish, the kind of author you’d love to have speak at your book fair. Please help! -Writer In the Spotlight
A. Best bet is to smile and stand with good posture. Wear an outfit that is feminine, has flair and avoids all chances of being considered stodgy, dull or conservative. I’ve found petite options from chic pants paired with a knit v-neck top to a skirt with a hem that hits around the knee. If you choose a dress with heels, then choose one in a great color that will be remembered - black at an event like this could get lost in the crowd, but a bright blue will draw attention to you. Once you snag the attention, it’s up to you to keep them wrangled with your stimulating conversation.
1. AK Anne Klein Petites Printed Pleated Skirt, $89 at macys.com
2. Petite Super 120s sleeveless dress, $180 at jcrew.com
3. INC International Concepts® Petites Belted Sheath Dress, $119 at macys.com
4. Petite wool gabardine three-button mini-hacking jacket (and matching pants), jcrew.com - Add a bright whimsical top or thin knit underneath to break the suit code. Make the suit a comfort stylish outfit rather than a conservative look.
-Walkin’ Workin’ mom
A. To move flawlessly from errands to playtime to work, you need footwear that is comfortable and ranges from cute kicks to flats and low heels with padded insoles. I’m a big fan of Cole Haan’s collection with Nike Air technology. For a look that can go from work to running after the kids, trouser jeans are a must have. Take a look at our Classics Rock style recipe for tips on choosing button down shirts, a sporty blazer and other key pieces that can be paired with jeans or pants. Additionally, you’ll need shirts and skirts with stretch, fitted cotton jersey tops, and jackets that can pull double duty for play and work.
Jackets that can work and play and clearly don’t define themselves by a stuffy office:
2. Stem Organic Cotton Jacket, $68 at nordstrom.com
3. Norma Kamali Oversized Turtleneck Jacket, $375 at nordstrom.com
Pair them with:
4. Slim stretch shirt, $59.50 at jcrew.com
5. Soft knit long-sleeve scoopneck tee, $38 at jcrew.com
6. TOMMY HILFIGER Montauk Paisley Shirt, $69.50 at macys.com
7. Diane von Furstenberg Gilligan Pant, $275 at shopbop.com
8. David Kahn Jeans Stretch Trouser Jeans, $168 at nordstrom.com
9. Cole Haan Fiona Mid Air Pump, $278.95 at zappos.com
10. Cole Haan Air Bria Woven Ballet, $178.95 at zappos.comzappos.com
Q. I’m invited to a formal Saturday night affair at the end of March in New York. I’m stumped regarding what season to dress for. It will probably be too cold for summer fabrics and styles, but too late in the season (after Easter) for wintry velvets and taffetas. Please offer some help both for my 7-year-old daughter and myself!
-Stumped
A. While March is considered the beginning of Spring, in reality there could be a fluke snow storm. But when it comes to a formal affair, many of the rules of seasonal dressing don’t apply since many dressy looks don’t cover us from head to toe. Best scenario is to choose a dress that is cocktail length and wear with tights or sheer hosiery and a high heel that is closed toe, d’Orsay or peep toe. If you wear a full-length dress feel free to skip the hosiery and wear a heel of your choice. Think silk, jersey, and even taffeta still.
1. Silk taffeta Felice dress, $235 at jcrew.com
2. Maggy London Ruched Crinkle Chiffon Dress, $158 at nordstrom.com
3. Kay Unger Ruched Gown, $388 at nordstrom.com
4. Sophia long silk dress, $225 at jcrew.com
And for the little one:
5. Alexis silk faille dress, $168 at jcrew.com
6. Us Angels Tulle & Satin Dress, $98 at nordstrom.com
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