Talking Fashion

Every other week Deputy Editor of the Sunday Source Suzanne D'Amato and washingtonpost.com Fashion and Beauty Editor Janet Bennett Kelly 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 were online Tuesday, March 18, at 11 a.m. ET to answer your fashion and style questions and share your own great tips, ideas and yes, even a gripe or two.

____________________

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hi, everyone, and welcome to our discussion. On this Tuesday, two days before the official start of spring, we'd love to know what's on your mind about fashion. Got any great tips you care to share, found a solution to a clothing dilemma you've been wrestling with? We've got beauty booty to reward the most innovative chatters this morning: a travel-size gift set from Bang Salons (shampoo, conditioner, body wash and scrub) and a trio of treats from Yves Saint Laurent (two Lip Twins lipsticks and a limited edition of Baby Doll eau de toilette). So, let's start talking fashion.

_______________________

Annapolis, Md.: Hi Suzanne and Janet,

I am a male in my mid-20s and I have a hard time finding dress shirts that don't look like I am wearing a tent. I have decided to focus on finding shirts that fit my body and not my neck since I have a 17 inch neck and that would make only custom shirts available to me. Shirts from Express, especially the new "fitted" line fit well but they are the worst to iron because they are made from a spandex blend and not just cotton. Any suggestions?

Thanks.

Janet Bennett Kelly: If you're willing to splurge, try Thomas Pink. They carry a more fitted, European-style shirt that may work for you. I don't know if there are any stores in Annapolis, but there are in D.C. and in McLean.

_______________________

Milwaukee, Wisc.: Why can't I find a cute pair of flats? Do any stores sell them? I see them in magazines. (Yes, I do come to the D.C. area sometimes. No, I can't wear high heels.)

Suzanne D'Amato: Flats have indeed become more difficult to find because platform styles are the big thing right now (as they have been for a few seasons). But they're nevertheless still out there -- retailers know flats are a big business, even if they're not high-fashion at this moment. I've spotted cute takes recently at Nordstrom, J. Crew and Target (the Columbia Heights outpost still has plenty of those Loeffler Randall flats). Certain brands, such as Delman and French Sole, always feature flats, so they're good to Google as well.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Also, Sassanova in Georgetown carries lots of flats.

_______________________

Durham, N.C.: Hello, ladies! Usually, when a new season starts, I spot (at least) one piece that I know I want to add to my wardrobe. I've been paying attention, but I still haven't found it. I want to know what that piece (or those pieces) are for you (and any chatters). Perhaps it will give me a push in the right direction!

Suzanne D'Amato: I'm looking for a great day dress -- polished cotton, NOT babydoll, NOT super-short. Something that I can wear to work, but that doesn't feel too mumsy. It could be a cool floral print, or perhaps a classic (yet on-trend) color like navy.

Janet, what about you?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'm looking for a day dress in a painterly or abstract print that I can either belt or not. Secondly, a fullish skirt a la Marni (but without the high price) would be divine.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: I recently got a pair of purple satin heels from J. Crew (as part of the shoe of the month club). I am not sure what to wear them with. Are they more of a special occasion shoe or can I wear them daytime?

Suzanne D'Amato: If you're referring to J. Crew's Martine satin heels, I think they can be worn for day or night (though they're more obviously suited to the latter). Try them with a fifties-inspired full-skirted cotton frock, perhaps. A happy floral print that includes a dab of purple would work wonderfully.

Now, shoe of the month club? You're my kind of girl.

_______________________

So Maryland: Greetings, Fashionistas! Lucky me -- I'm heading to France in early April! I have no idea what to pack. I know French women are tres chic...how to I avoid looking like a sloppy American? We plan to do the typical sight seeing/tourist things in Paris but will also head to the south and bordeaux reagions. MERCI for your help!

Suzanne D'Amato: Lucky you, indeed! I wouldn't overthink this too much because truth be told, you're going to stand out a little bit no matter what you do. The clothing cuts and hot brands are just different in different countries, and your boot-cut slacks and Gap tees are going to peg you as an outsider, no matter how careful you are.

That said, it's possible to be a stylish outsider. Pick a simple, streamlined palette -- black and white, say -- and plan your wardrobe around it. Go for understated, well-made pieces rather than splashy, hard-to-coordinate prints. Pack chic driving shoes and ballet flats rather than sneakers and flip-flops. And: no tracksuits. No sweatshirts. No Uggs. Need I add, no fanny packs?

_______________________

Springfield, Va.: Hi Suzanne, thanks for coming to the D.C. Fashionistas meeting last night.

Please, please talk to us about jewelry, and accesories.

What is hot for this SUMMER 2008?

Suzanne D'Amato: For anyone who's interested in fashion (and I'm assuming that means you, or you wouldn't be reading this chat!), the D.C. Fashionistas Meetup group is worth checking out. Their numbers just topped 1,000; the group includes local designers, shop owners, makeup artists and other creatives who are trying to band together to build the city's fashion community. Link to follow...

Now, jewelry! I'm currently loving all of those lavish, artfully distressed pieces by the likes of Tom Binns, Phillip Crangi and Justin Guinta for Subversive Jewelry. (Guinta's coming out with a cheap-chic line for Target -- it hits stores this coming Sunday.) Crafty, Marni-inspired baubles also seem to be having a moment this Spring. What's "out"? Dainty, wee pieces without much personality. Cutesy stuff featuring deers and owls is feeling a bit dated, too.

Hope that helps!

_______________________

washingtonpost.com: The DC Fashionista Meetup Group

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Where can a grown man find decent, stylish clothing for work and play that isn't insanely priced/designed and isn't made for 19-year- old club kids with 28 inch waists? I am in a career that doesn't require me to dress like a D.C. office drone, but want to also dress appropriately for my age (early 40's). I've had some good luck at Bloomingdales (great suits on good sale prices), but they don't always have all I'm looking for. I'm also a single father of two, so have very little time for shopping, and don't want to spend a lot of time doing it either.

Thanks for any tips you can provide.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Sounds to me like what you need is a good salesperson at a department store -- Nordstrom, Bloomie's, Macy's, Brooks -- who can point you in the right direction. Find someone whose taste you like and put them on the case.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: What is the criteria you use to choose the store you are featuring in shopper/trendspotter page on Sunday. Thanks.

Suzanne D'Amato: We want to feature local stores that are stylish and relatively new -- places our readers may not know about. They usually have a fashion focus (if it's a store that sells fabulous furniture, it's probably better suited to the Home section).

Beyond that, just about anything goes: Our readers are an eclectic mix, so we endeavor to keep that in mind. You'll see us feature a sneaker shop one week, a precious jewelry boutique the week after that.

_______________________

M Street NW, Washington, D.C.: To the guy wearing tents....

Take your shirts to a tailor and you can get them taken in so that they fit your waist, as well as your neck.

Janet Bennett Kelly: An option for the chatter who wants more fitted shirts ...

_______________________

Fashion Peeves: What is your biggest fashion peeve? Like, you're walking down the street, and you see someone wearing this, and you want to throw something or cry.

Mine is sweatpants with words across the tush. So tacky, so inappropriate, and just plain odd.

Suzanne D'Amato: Anything with words on the tush does make me a little cross-eyed, I must confess. I'd also add: scary-short skirts, shoes that are too small, and streaky, obviously orange self-tanner.

And then there's muffin-tops, the quadruple-boob effect...I could go on. But I'll turn it over to the group: Chatters, any pet peeves to add to this list?

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Hi, I have a question about summer walking/commuting shoes. I change from my clogs to my heels once I get to work as I found it really extends the life of my nice heels and keeps them looking spiffy. Not to mention I get to work a whole lot faster. This spring and summer, I'd like to avoid resorting to the flip flops and suit look. I also would to avoid getting blisters this summer. Can you recommend a shoe that is comfortable for commuting during spring and summer that doesn't look totally icky with business clothes? Thank you.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Cole Haan has this collection called Nike Air, which features lots of appropriate-for-work pumps with sneaker cushioning. May be worth a try.

_______________________

Pennsylvania: Spring shoes. So I've been wearing heavy black shoes (mostly my trusty Borns) all winter and would like something in a lighter hue for spring. But they still have to be good walking shoes (flats, no heels, lots of arch support). Have you seen anything worth investigating? (I saw a pair of Born lace-up shoes in metallic shades; that might be a bit edgy for me, but I'm intrigued.)

Thanks!

Suzanne D'Amato: Metallics would be a great choice for you. Once exclusively reserved for evening, gold, silver and bronze are considered neutrals these days -- but they're much spiffier than basic brown and black.

Now, as for where to shop -- I must tell you that what you gain in arch support you will sacrifice in style. Put simply, the best-looking flats aren't usually the most comfortable ones. But I recently did see some styles at Aerosoles and Bandolino that you might check out. Stuart Weitzman is another name worth considering -- the brand's shoes are expensive, but built to last.

_______________________

Looking for a Dress: Suzanne, if you find that dress you describe, please share! I've been looking for the same type of thing and so far haven't seen it in what they're currently showing for spring.

Suzanne D'Amato: I did spot one very close approximation at the Saks in Chevy Chase this past weekend. Tevrow & Chase had two lovely-looking cotton styles in navy and black. Now, if they lop a zero off the end of each price tag, I'll be back!

_______________________

UnLucky: I like to page through Lucky magazine to get ideas and find things I might like without actually going shopping. The problem? The older I get, the less that magazine applies to me. Apparently Lucky thinks the only women who shop are 18-30. I'm 45, and most of the mini-this and baby-doll that stuff would look ridiculous on me. And yet, I don't want to turn into one of those women who don't shop anywhere but Chico's and J. Jill. I guess this is more of a rant, than a question.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Yes, there's still a lot of baby doll stuff out there, and yes, mini is in this year. But maxi is in as well! If you don't like the stuff you're seeing in Lucky, read something else!

_______________________

Logan Circle, Washington, D.C.: Fantastic fashionistas, help. Please do. I'm (more than) a bit of a tomboy who's trying to expand her wardrobe and having trouble finding things that fit. I'm 5'11" with freakishly long arms and legs, about 150 pounds. I'd love some blouses without 3/4-length sleeves, but any recommendations on where to find cute clothes for, or designers who work better for, the (REALLY) tall would be fantastic! I'm thinking about dropping another 15 pounds and trying to get into runway modeling just to find clothes that fit...

Suzanne D'Amato: I'm a bit taller than you, if you can believe it, so I certainly feel your pain! You may not want to hear this, but I've had the best luck finding things that fit when I shop at higher-end places. I like Rogan and Theory for jeans and slacks; A.P.C., Marc by Marc Jacobs and Vince for shirts and sweaters. The Gap, Macys, Kohls, and the like? They're great resources, but not for lanky types like us, unfortunately. Good luck!

_______________________

Eastport/Mears: Hi Janet and Suzanne:

Looking for some shorts to wear at the marina/on the boat this spring.

Any ideas?

Janet Bennett Kelly: J. Crew has lots of different options -- from short to more bermuda-length. I also saw ones I liked from Vince in navy. I don't know about the selection at Old Navy, but I would look there as well.

_______________________

Clothing Peeve in D.C.: My peeve is the hosiery-free legs with suits. Bare legs may work with flouncy skirts and dresses, but if you're in a suit or other career-wear like that, use the hosiery! Otherwise, you look like you haven't finished dressing. And let's face it, most of us don't have perfect unmarked legs (mine are banged up like a little kid's) so the hosiery helps.

Suzanne D'Amato: Thanks for sharing. I think that a lot of folks have the exact opposite pet-peeve -- hosiery worn in warm weather with just about anything.

_______________________

For Paris tourist: As was suggested, black and white basics are fabulous for travel. Bring a couple of colorful scarves to liven things up -- scarves are easy to pack and will help make your outfits look different so that you don't end up wearing the same things in all your photos.

Also, Eagle Creek makes wonderful travel purses that are roomy and light with long straps so you can wear them across your body. Have a great time! (And go up the Eiffel Tower at night -- it's a great view of the City of Lights.)

Suzanne D'Amato: Thanks for your suggestions. Scarves are a wonderful -- and oh-so French -- idea! As for bags, I can't say that I'm a fan of Eagle Creek, but something that you can sling across your body would work well here, I agree.

_______________________

Arlington, Va.: I am officiating at a friend's wedding at the end of the month, which will be a dressy afternoon wedding. I was thinking of wearing a simple, long black dress so that I don't stand out, but I'm hesitant to wear black since it is a wedding. I have another possibility which is a long, simple navy flowered dress. What would you recommend?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I would go with the navy floral -- it's so much more spring-like and flowers are so in for this season. Besides, aren't you kind of sick of black?

_______________________

22205: I don't have a question -- it's more of a suggestion. I have a fuller bust, and as a result, all button-down shirts tend to "gap" in between the buttons.

I took a shirt to my tailor to get fitted, and he did something amazing to my shirt. He put little plastic snaps in between the buttons, as an inconspicuous way to keep my shirt from gaping, especially when I sit down or lean over.

So to all women who have this problem, consider taking your shirt to a tailor and requesting he/she do the same. There's no noticible difference in appearence, other than the shirt now fits the way it would if I wasn't blessed/cursed with this bustline!

Suzanne D'Amato: Thanks for the suggestion...sounds like someone who wants to win our beauty booty!

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: A follow-up to the France question -- I'm going to France too this spring, and would like recommendations for stylish yet comfortable shoes. Normally I wear running shoes and fashion be darned, but I want to branch out a little this trip. The only problem is that I have majorly jacked up feet -- I need heavy duty orthotics and I have bad bunions and plantar fasciitis. Do you have any recommendations for nice shoes that are roomy enough for inserts?

Janet Bennett Kelly: What about trying the Walking Store (I know of at least one location in Georgetown). They stock brands like Ecco that are very feet friendly. Nordstrom carries a brand called Geox that has a good rep.

_______________________

Fashion Peeve: Cloying perfume that lingers in spaces long after the wearer has gone. (I walked into quite the fragrant, yet empty, elevator this morning.) I love perfume, but it should be used judiciously!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I agree. Your perfume shouldn't announce itself before -- or after -- you do.

_______________________

22201: Thank you for taking that question about Paris...it reminded me that I had a question of my own! I will also be heading to Paris this spring, and was curious if you (or any readers!) could suggest some stores to hit up while I'm there? I'd love to come home with a little bit of that Parisian style. Unfortunately, price IS an object here...so any mid-range, reasonable suggestions would be great!

Suzanne D'Amato: Here are a few of my favorite higher-end shopping stops: Petit Bateau, Vanessa Bruno, Didier Ludot, Ines de la Fressange, Colette. For true bargain-hunting, try Guerrisol, BHV and Monoprix. Chatters, any places you'd add?

_______________________

Arlington, Va.: I beg to differ with the advice on travel to France. Everyone wears jeans everywhere! It's stunning. I went there and wore none of my chic clothes. Just get some high end, really good looking jeans, and you'll be fine.

Suzanne D'Amato: Oh, jeans are a great addition to any packing-for-Paris list -- so long as they are well-made and worn with an eye for style.

_______________________

For Paris-bound: Great advice. I think the tennis shoes are key -- don't bring them.

I once watched in amazement as one of my Dutch cousins identified Americans walking down the street in Amsterdam. The easiest way for her to spot them was always the sneakers.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Yes, we Americans are known for our tacky track shoes, but just to even things out, you can also always tell a European by his/her unflattering shoes.

_______________________

Can't stand:: Those puffy sleeves and pleated shoulders and smocking on jackets! What is it these days? I don't want to wear "sweet gathering at the shoulder" as one blouse was described. Why do designers think that grown women (and I'm not quite 30) want to look like we did as little kids? I've seen many beautiful items I would've bought had it not been for those puffy shoulders.

Suzanne D'Amato: I quite like the gathered-shoulders look -- there's one Alexander Wang khaki jacket in particular that I can't get out of my mind. But if you aren't a fan, streamlined blazers are still out there. You may need to look at places such as Ralph Lauren and Brooks Brothers, rather than a girly-girl shop like Anthropologie.

Another trend you might consider trying is the sweater-jacket -- it's more structured than a simple cardigan, and puffy shoulders here are few and far between.

_______________________

Cole Haan Nike Air: Yes! Cole Haan's Nike Air line has been my solution to end-of-the-day dead feet. I have the Carma Mid-Air Pump, which is a great basic black pump, and I've worn it to work several times a week for six months. It still looks great and is so worth the money. Cole Haan also has some really cute sandals with Nike Air padding. Another, less expensive option, might be Aerosoles, though they never last me nearly as long.

Suzanne D'Amato: I've heard great things about this line. Thanks for sharing!

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Where can I go and get measured and get a good bra?

Janet Bennett Kelly: One chatter just mentioned Tyson's Nordstrom -- "had a wonderful bra consultant named Emma."

_______________________

Jewelry: For the chatter looking for fun jewelry for the summer, may I suggest Kenneth Jay Lane -- sold at Saks, Bloomingdales, Cusp, etc. He makes great animal-inspired necklaces, bangles, rings and more. I'm lusting after these big time!

Suzanne D'Amato: Kenneth Jay Lane is a fashion classic at this point -- I wouldn't say his style is trendy, per se, but for that very reason you probably can't go wrong with investing in one or two of his pieces. After all, Jackie Onassis and Audrey Hepburn wore 'em.

_______________________

Tall clothes: If you don't want to spend too much money and are willing to buy on-line, you CAN buy decent clothes if you have long legs. I actually really like the more casual stuff at jcpenney.com, oldnavy.com, and landsend.com (which also sells Talls suits). You can return to the store (Lands End = Sears). Obviously, for better quality, go the higher-end route.

Suzanne D'Amato: The problem I've had with these brands is that the Tall sizes tend to assume that you're also proportionately broad -- such that even a Tall-Small doesn't fit as it should. But if you are tall, you need to investigate all your options! So thanks for contributing this one.

_______________________

Suzanne D'Amato: Thanks so much for joining us today. Janet and I are pleased to announce the winners of our beauty goodie giveaway. To chatter "22205," with the suggestion about button-down shirts for fuller busts, we offer the Bang travel gift set. And to the chatter with the suggestions on scarves and Eagle Creek bags, we have the YSL products. Please e-mail me at trendspotter@washpost.com with your name and mailing address, and we'll get those products sent out to you.

To everyone else, see you in two weeks!

_______________________

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.