Talking Fashion

Every other week Deputy Editor of the Sunday Source Suzanne D'Amato and washingtonpost.com Fashion and Beauty Editor Janet Bennett are here to talk fashion. Want to know where to find perfect black slacks? Which new designers are rocking the runway? Why Britney just can't seem to find a dress that fits? They're here to help. They'll be online Tuesday, Feb. 12, at noon ET to answer your fashion and style questions.

They invite you to submit questions and share you own great tips, ideas and, yes, even a gripe or two.

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Suzanne D'Amato: Good day, everyone. Janet and I are here, ready to offer our heart-felt Valentine's Day gift and date-night suggestions. Of course, we're happy to help sort out other pressing fashion issues, too. So send us your questions!

And because we're all about showing the love, we have a special treat for you. We're going to start giving away luxe beauty goodies to the two chatters who have the best, funniest, most insightful comments/questions each week. Today we've got a Laura Mercier gift set -- honey bath gel, souffle body cream, a french vanilla candle, oh my! -- and a grab bag of MAC's neutral-toned eye shadows, lipsticks and more. At the end of the hour, we'll announce who's won our little contest.

Without further ado... let's talk shop.

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Cleveland, Ohio: So, I'm thinking I'd like to use the services of a personal shopper/stylist -- one of the department store staffers. If I make an appointment at a place like Nordstrom, how much should I budget for buying clothes? I think, based on a past story you did (can you link to it, by the way?), that you are not obligated to buy anything, but I'm sure there's a general unspoken rule of thumb that makes the person's time worthwhile.

Suzanne D'Amato: I wrote a story about personal shoppers last year (link to follow). I'd recommend the experience to anyone who is willing to invest the time and the money, because you will need a decent amount of both. (For Nordstrom, I'd guess that if you wanted to spend less than $300 or so, it probably isn't worth it -- it's a relatively expensive store, so you just won't get to buy that much.)

I found the two shoppers with whom I worked to be unfailingly gracious -- there was no pressure to buy anything. But I was putting a lot of pressure on myself: After five hours of trying on clothes, I wanted to buy something like you couldn't believe. Not that everything I tried on was so amazing, but I needed to make all the time I'd invested seem worthwhile, somehow.

Anyway, good luck! If you do end up trying Nordstrom's services, email me at trendspotter@washpost.com and let me know what you think.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I have had limited experience with personal shoppers, but one thing that helps me when I'm in stores is to look for a salesperson who dresses in a way you admire. It's not foolproof but it's worked on more than one occasion for me.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Ladies,

I bought a J.Crew blazer on super sale that I love -- it is black (maybe ink/very dark navy) with a white 'edging' about 1 inch wide around the lapels and bottom, and comfortably fitted. Problem? I can't figure out what to wear it with without looking like a cruise ship employee. I can't wear denim to work, and that's about the only thing I can think to wear it with. Can you help a girl out?

Suzanne D'Amato: It would be great with denim, yes. But what about gray straight-leg slacks? Or skinny red khakis? Or a pleated skirt that hits above the knee, in plum or lemon yellow? You have a lot of options -- I'd just steer clear of wide-leg slacks because they often have that sailor feel.

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washingtonpost.com: Suzanne and the Personal Shoppers

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Washington, D.C.: Okay, while not exactly a fashion question, I figured this was okay because this is the Valentine's Day discussion. My problem is that the straps constantly fall down on my bras. I've tried racerback bras, but they don't work with a lot of shirts. Thoughts?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'm assuming you've adjusted those straps correctly, right? I would guess that your best bet would be to go to a lingerie shop and get the proper fit. Options include Trousseau in Vienna, Coup de Foudre in D.C. and Sylene and Underwraps in Chevy Chase and Bethesda, just to name a few.

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Ready for spring...: I am so excited about this super-cute orange dress that I just got from Anthropologie. What kind and color shoes would you wear? Also, can I break it out in March or sometime when it's not 70 degrees yet? Maybe with a cardigan and some cream pantyhose?

Thanks! I love your fashion advice!

The dress:

Anthropologie

Suzanne D'Amato: Dearest RFS, You were doing so nicely until I read the words "cream pantyhose." Please, just say no. A gray or brown pair will work just as well with the orange, not to mention being a million times more flattering, a million times less Nurse Ratchet.

As for shoes: You could match the hue to your tights for a leg-lengthening look, or you could think wacky and try another zany shade -- cobalt blue, say. It's all about how bold you want to go.

And a cardigan sounds great! You could also layer a turtleneck underneath. It'd look sweet with that jumper style of dress.

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Wisconsin: What should I plan to wear to an afternoon bridal shower at Teaism mid-March? I'm always stumped when the weather is in that in-between phase. I know there's always the cute dress with a cardigan option, but can I alternatively, somehow, add to a basic pair of Banana Republic pants (black, tan, or gray) and make them a bit special?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Are you thinking pants for weather reasons? You can make most anything -- even a basic pair of BR pants -- look special, depending on what you wear with it and how you accessorize. I understand wanting to feel comfortable but also having the need to look a bit festive for the occasion.

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Washington, D.C.:

Janet,

Were you serious in answering a question a few weeks back telling a girl that the most stylish places for a plus-size girl to shop are Lane Bryant and Old Navy?

And you call yourself an expert... Shame on you.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I mentioned that Old Navy was a good budget-minded place to shop for plus-size fashions, as is Target. For more upscale options, there are Michael Kors and Calvin Klein, who recently launched plus-size lines. Kiyonna is another line plus-size girls should look for.

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Where can I get that!: So, I was flipping through the images from New York Fashion week, and really, really LOVE the outfit from Oscar de la Renta the purple sweater/skirt (slide 34 today). How long does it usually take for things like this to trickle down to affordable stores?

washingtonpost.com: Rock Style Lives at NY Fashion Week ( AP, Feb. 3)

Suzanne D'Amato: The selfsame outfit probably will never be attainable for regular folks, but you can hope that the color or some of the details will pop up at stores such as Forever 21 in the next six weeks or so. (Though I should probably add that fast-fashion stores tend to focus on knocking off trendier designers who appeal to younguns -- Marc Jacobs, Anna Sui and so on.)

You also might check out de la Renta's less-expensive line, O Oscar, which is sold at places like Macys and for obvious reasons has a good amount of aesthetic overlap with the higher-priced runway collection.

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Makeover!: I need my own personal Stacey London! Does a local version exist? I'm 40 plus, not model-thin but would love to look nice and wear clothes that fit. But I have no idea where to start. You have mentioned personal shoppers before, but is there someone or some profession out there that mimmics the "What Not To Wear" approach? I'm not really interested in having a SALES person tell me what to wear

Suzanne D'Amato: I will tell you that many salespeople make excellent personal shoppers, and also that many stylists (which I think is what you're asking for) started out working retail. That said, if what you want is a non-salesperson to come to your home, rip up your closet, and assess your style, I'd recommend Alison Lukes. I've also heard good things about Margaret Lilly of Lilly's Closet. (Both women are Googleable.)

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Seattle, Wash.: So, um, where are any models who look like the rest of America? Why are they all skinny white girls? Don't you have any Asian, Hispanic, or black women back East?

Janet Bennett Kelly: For that question I refer you to our colleague Robin Givhan's story on Feb. 3.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi ladies. I'm hosting a party at my place on Saturday and I'm looking for the perfect outfit to wear. Not super dressy, but definitely not too casual since I am, after all, the hostess and I'd like to stand out. Plus, there will be a certain someone that I hope to impress. Do you have any suggestions?

Suzanne D'Amato: What about a printed dress in bright, happy hues rather than basic black, with bare legs? You won't be traveling to get to this party, so you don't need to bundle up too much.

What I would not wear: a fussy pashmina or any other kind of wrap; dangly earrings; complicated updos; killer heels. As hostess, you're going to be running around all night, so attire yourself with comfort in mind and let your dress's color and details be the things that make you look festive.

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Middleageville, Md.: Help, please, for us 40 plus career women? Do we have any alternatives to suits? D.C. region working women get panned for our style of dress, or lack thereof, but what are our options? What do designers expect us to wear, or do they really not care? I strolled through Nordstrom's in Annapolis this weekend, and couldn't find anything age and "station" appropriate, short of an unaffordable St. John knit suit. And you know how people joke about those.

Seems like there's a significant market here that is being overlooked.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I think designers are responding to the needs of 40-plus career women, much more so than last year when we had a gazillion baby-doll dresses and blouses that made everyone look 15 and pregnant. Yes, suits can be boring, but this fall we've seen several so-called skirt suits that add some flare to the career outfit. I find that a more feminine solution to the what-to-wear to work question.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Hello:

Hoping you could give me the 411 for this seasons jeans -- skinny jeans and wide legs.

Absolutely love my Kasil and Paige skinny jeans and want more... But it seems like the wide legs with high waist are catching momentum.

What would you recommend -- at the cost per pair I want to get 2-3 but not sure... That or grab a pair of boot cuts

Suzanne D'Amato: I think you already answered your own question when you said that you absolutely love the skinny styles. If that's the case, why would you suffer in wide-legs in the name of trendiness?

Still, if you must know, both styles are in stores and on streets this season.

One new denim trend I've heard about is ripped, faded jeans, supposedly inspired by the gaggle of lovelies competing for Bret Michaels's heart, mind and weave on "Rock of Love 2."

I'm not saying this is a GOOD trend, mind you...just reporting the facts!

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McLean, Va.: Happy Tuesday! I have a blazer sitting my closet collecting dust because I have no idea what to wear it with. I'm hesitant to get rid of it because it was very expensive, so I am determined to wear it this year! It is white, cropped, hits a bit below my waist, with 3/4 sleeves. Any ideas how I can make it interesting? Thank you ladies for the help!

Suzanne D'Amato: I'd try experimenting with layers. Maybe a long-sleeve, patterned blouse underneath, and let the hem of the shirt hang loose (so long as it doesn't hang down to your knees)? A tie-neck blouse could also work well here -- there's something about leaving the ties undone that looks stylish, yet a bit saucy, under a prim blazer.

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Capitol Hill, D.C.: Hi Ladies,

I apologize for the wedding dress question, but here goes: I am looking for a wedding gown that is moderately formal (i.e., it's not a beach wedding) for $750 or less. Any ideas on where to shop, other than David's Bridal? It seems most places are above this price point. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I don't know whether you're interested in going this route, but there's the consignment shop, I Do, I Do Wedding Gowns in Gaithersburg. And, depending on when you're getting married, Filene's Basement has this bridal sale the first week of August, when all gowns, including the most expensive from Vera Wang and the like, sell in the $700 range for the costliest. Also, Hitch in Georgetown has periodic bridal sample sales.

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Arlington, Va.: Hi, love these chats!!

I think wearing a jacket is a great way to look more pulled together, but I sometimes fear I look too eighties in blazers/jackets. Is there a way to ensure the look stays modern?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Look at the shoulders -- shoulders in the '80s were big and squarish. Today's shoulders are less padded and more rounded.

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Springfield, Va.: Hi ladies -- I have two questions.

I would like to add sleeves to a dress but have had trouble matching the fabric. I've been to G Street fabrics, which is the only store I can think of that has a lot of fabrics in one place. ANy other recommendations?

Also, what is your take on Gossip on 23rd? Is it worth a detour to take a look at?

Suzanne D'Amato: I love the bolts of colorful fabric at Marimekko in Silver Spring. Those punchy patterns are just the thing for this dreary weather.

As for Gossip on 23rd, I haven't been there, personally, but Sunday Source did cover the store several weeks ago. (Link to follow.) Chatters, have you visited this new boutique?

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Shout it from the rooftops...: It's nearly Valentine's Day and I'm in love! With a dress that is. Ain't she a beauty: Saks Fifth Avenue

The problem is, the object of my affection is a bit (okay, a lot) expensive for my budget.

Do you have any suggestions on stores that may be selling similar looks for a tenth of the price? Please mend my broken heart.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hey, there, dress lover,

I wasn't able to see the link to the dress of your dreams. Nevertheless, it never hurts to try some place like Loehmann's, Filene's or T.J. Maxx to look for dresses with similar looks but more kind-to-your-purse prices.

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washingtonpost.com: Gossip on 23rd

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McLean, Va.: So...is yellow the new "navy" for spring?

What are the 4 or 5 "must haves" that you have seen?

Suzanne D'Amato: Yellow is going to be very popular this spring, as it was last spring. If you decide to follow this trend I hope it proves more wearable for you than it did me. I bought a yellow blouse last year that I've worn exactly once since.

Still, I wouldn't call yellow the new navy, because navy will also be quite popular. Isn't fashion funny like that?

As for must-haves, it seems that you can't go wrong with a floral-print dress, a full skirt or a colorful, extravagantly detailed shoe. Along with something yellow or navy, of course.

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Washington, D.C.: I am a guy and a big fan of Thom Browne suits. I was discussing this with my wife the other night, and we both agree that wearing a Thom Browne suit (even a Brooks Brothers version) would just look really out of place here in D.C.

Are there men in D.C. wearing the new proportions?

Suzanne D'Amato: I've seen several men around town wearing shrunken, possibly Browne-inspired suits, but I'd venture to say that their styles tended more toward the rocker, rather than K Street, end of the spectrum.

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Undecid, ED: I can and do sew most anything to get the fit (tall, long arms). I have some silk suiting, cream with gray/camel houndstooth. I want to make a skirt suit, and want a fairly classic look. What would you recommend for the jacket, to go with a slim skirt? Short or blazer? Contrasting belt? I'm over 50 and professional, so not too funky.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'd go with a short jacket with some volume so that it balances the slim skirt. I wouldn't think you need a belt.

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Bethesda, Md.: Hi Ladies,

I'll be attending an evening wedding in the Baltimore area in mid-March (cerimony starts at 5 p.m.). Would a sleeveless silk sheath dress with a matching long-sleeve jacket (pastel color) be appropriate guest attire? The only other times I've worn this outfit were for summer and early fall weddings. Thanks for your advice.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hi, Bethesda,

I'm not wimping out on you, but I have to say it depends on the weather. If it's a warmish March day, your dress will work. But if cold and gray and snowy, you may feel as if you're pushing the season in pastel.

Suzanne, suggestions for making it work??

Suzanne D'Amato: I agree with Janet. But what about leaving the jacket at home in favor of an elegant beaded capelet, snuggly gray wrap, or some such? That matchy-matchy look (dress and jacket) is a little mother of the bride as it is.

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Arlington, Va.: The single best thing I've done with my wardrobe is to stop buying pants with side/slash pockets. They look terrible on me and just add width to my already wide hips! Now my pants fit better and look better. I don't even try on pants with pockets anymore!

Suzanne D'Amato: Does this helpful tidbit come from a chatter hoping to win one of our luxe beauty goodies? Methinks it does!

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Charlotte, N.C.: Thanks for saving me from cream pantyhose! That's why I wrote in -- to save myself from a fashion disaster. I probably should just try a bunch of options -- I always have trouble visualizing a look until I see it on.

Suzanne D'Amato: That's what we're here for! And yes, it's always best to try on these different combos. Hue makes a lovely pair of flecked gray tights that I think would look wonderful with your dress, btw.

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Bethesda, Md.: Necklines for older women, what is your advice regarding low necklines for women who no longer have firm necks? Should such women be restricted to always WEARING TURTLENECKS OR SCARVES?

Janet Bennett Kelly: In my opinion, sometimes turtlenecks and scarves call attention to the fact that necks are not as firm as they used to be. Maybe I wouldn't go as far as strapless or a very revealing low neckline, but otherwise, I'd say don't restrict yourself to turtlenecks. Do you remember the movie with Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson? Keaton wore turtlenecks even in the summer until she fell in love with Nicholson and relaxed.

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Regarding the Bra Straps Question: Can I wholeheartedly second your suggestion to get measured and fitted for a bra. I walked into Nordstrom's wearing a 36A. The helpful saleswoman took my ;measurements and I walked out wearing a 32C! It's like I got plastic surgery, but a lot less painful and cheaper too! It took no time at all and was obviously, totally worth it.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks for the feedback on that. Getting a bra to fit well is priceless.

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Washington, D.C.: Hello! I'm going to a wedding this weekend, and I have this great long-sleeved, short dress. It's a wine color. It's got a low neck, and I want to wear this detailed black stone and pewter necklace.

Question -- what about the bottom half? I HAVE to wear some sort of hose. What color hose - black or nude - and what kind of shoe? I'm not a fan of the hose and open toe look -- but I guess I'm open to it...I need your sage advice! I'm afraid close toe pumps will be hard to find at a sale this weekend...

Suzanne D'Amato: Black opaque tights and heels would look great with this ensemble (though if your dress is super-short, you may feel more comfortable in flats). I love open-toe shoes with tights, but you don't have to go there if you disagree. Just look for shoes that have a more bare feel than your basic workaday pump -- T-straps, say, or a d'Orsay style. Something to give that dressy look while still keeping your toes covered.

Have fun!

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Annandale, Va.: I'm going to a dinner cruise on Valentine's Day and I have no clue what to wear. Slacks and a nice top, skirt, or long skirt, etc. ...please help!

Janet Bennett Kelly: That sounds fun! I'd go with slacks and a dressy top -- maybe a sequin sweater. I would say no to the long skirt -- just for reasons of mobility and getting on and off the boat.

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Fairfax, Va.: Suzanne, Janet, I have to say that I love your chats. It is really great for girls that want to look good and a little different. I recently bought a wool jacket that is quite form-fitting. There are two buttons in the front and I am not entirely sure of what I should do with them. If I button both, my behind becomes pretty obvious with the back vent. Can I get away with just the top button?

Suzanne D'Amato: Thanks for your kind words! As for your jacket, I'd leave it unbuttoned, or button it all the way, or (best option of all) take it to a consignment store and use the money you receive to buy a jacket that actually flatters your figure.

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Reston, Va.: Hi Ladies! So I got the perfect Litte Red Dress for Valentine's Day! I have two questions: Are hose okay to wear, or should I go bare (I'm only 26)? I haven't had a short dress in a while and am not sure if I should have it hemmed up a bit. I am just under 5' tall and it comes a little below my knees. I'm thinking the same dress on someone of average height would make it a lot shorter, but I don't know how short to go. Please help!

Suzanne D'Amato: Going bare-legged or not has more to do with where you're headed and how much walking you plan to do than how old you are. So, if you're wearing this dress to dinner and cabbing it both ways, I think you're fine to skip hose. But if you're planning to hike six blocks to your favorite local spot, I'd wear some warm tights -- and maybe dressy knee boots, too.

As for your dress's length, it's tough for me to say without further details. Here are some general thoughts: If the dress's waist aligns with yours, you're probably fine. But if we're talking about one of those floaty babydoll dresses that has no waist, you'd want it to end well above your knee. Otherwise it's not a dress, it's a muumuu.

Hope that helps!

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Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: I'm taking a bunch of my "I bought them while under the influence of a style that isn't mine" spree to Secondi to be consigned. This makes me question my entire closet. What questions should I be asking myself to effectively clear out all these interesting outfits. And really, how should one find a defined style?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Interesting question. If you find yourself not wearing something you recently bought or wearing it once in a blue moon, that's obviously a candidate for the consignment shop. You're right -- you have to question why you bought it in the first place. When you're cleared away a lot of stuff you don't wear, you have a better idea of what you're drawn to and what you like to wear. Finding a style is trial and error. Do you find yourself wearing tailored pants and jackets or are you happier in dresses with femme details? I'd say finding a style that works for you is a discovery process -- a fun one.

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Wedding Dress seeker: Gossypia in Alexandria of course!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Yes, a very good suggestion. Shame on me for forgetting that!

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RE: Cheaper wedding gown options: Also look into some evening gowns in white or cream. I've seen some by Marchesa, Nicole Miller and even BCBG that would make beautiful wedding dresses and can be purchased for much less. Also, make sure to look at Vera Wang's bridesmaids dresses - they are gorgeous and priced much lower.

Suzanne D'Amato: These are all good suggestions. Along similar lines -- and I apologize if this has been mentioned already -- Thread makes a lovely line of bridesmaid dresses that would be perfect for an informal and/or outdoor wedding.

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Reston, Va.: Personnal shopper... Highly recommend and keep an open mind. While it may be the ugliest thing you've ever seen on a hanger once it may be turn out to be your favorite piece of clothing. I have redone my entire wardrobe with a shopper and feel a million times better.

Suzanne D'Amato: Good for you! I didn't have nearly as transformative an experience as you did, but I'm pleased to know the process works for some people.

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Herndon, Va.: Please help! I just got my first pair of navy dress pants and I have no idea what to wear with them! Are there certain colors that will not work on top? Shoes -- black or brown? Thanks so much for your advice, LOVE the chats!

Suzanne D'Amato: Bright colors pair wonderfully with navy, as does gray. What about a navy-and-cream striped boatneck tee (just saw a great one in the Ann Taylor LOFT lookbook, and you can always get them from Petit Bateau), with patent red or lemon yellow loafers?

Janet, any other suggestions?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Just saw a Vince navy and gray-striped turtleneck T-shirt that I think would work. For shoes, I like black patent loafers. Can you tell which one of us is the more conservative?

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Washington, D.C.: To Arlington, Va., who said she has stopped buying pants with side/slash pockets because they add width to hips... I'm with you on that problem! But don't discard a potentially great pair of pants just because of the pockets; you can always sew them shut and voila!

Suzanne D'Amato: Yes, this was a good suggestion. And on that note, I'm pleased to announce the two winners in today's beauty giveaway! One is the Arlington chatter who wrote in with this pockets tip; she'll receive the Laura Mercier set. And the other is the woman who recently consigned some clothes at Secondi and is now ISO her own defined style. We'll give her those MAC products to help her on her way. To both of these chatters: Please email your names and mailing addresses to trendspotter@washpost.com and we'll get those products out to you, stat. Thanks!

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks everyone for all your interesting questions about fashion. We love it. Keep 'em coming. We'll be back in two weeks on Tues., Feb. 26 at 11. And since the Oscars are the Sunday evening before -- Feb. 24 -- we'll be looking forward to hearing your rants and raves. Bye for now.

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Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.