Talking Fashion

Suzanne D'Amato and Janet Bennett Kelly
Deputy Editor, Sunday Source, Fashion and Beauty Editor, washingtonpost.com
Tuesday, April 1, 2008 11:00 AM

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 were online Tuesday, April 1, 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.

A transcript follows.

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Good morning, everyone, and thanks for joining our discussion. To brighten up this rainy April Fool's Day, we've got goodies -- no joke -- for chatters with savvy solutions to fashion dilemmas. How do a trio of body mists and lotions by Healing Garden and shimmering powder, eye shadow and lipgloss from Dior sound? Good? Let's get going then!

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Arlington, Va.: After a good spring cleaning, I have several pieces of gently-used women's business attire -- button-down shirts, a suit, shoes, etc. -- that I'm ready to part with. I would love to be able to donate them to a charitable organization that focuses on job training and placement for low income or battered/abused women, but I don't know where these places are in D.C. I work on Capitol Hill, so anything close by (or any upcoming clothing drives in the area) would be even better. Thanks!

Suzanne D'Amato: Dress for Success sounds like the perfect place for you to donate these pieces. The company's website states, "We are a non-profit organization providing professional clothing, mentoring support, and career skills to women who are making the transistion from welfare to work."

They accept donations of gently-worn clothing; the D.C. affiliate is located at 717 Second Street NE, and their phone number is 202-544-3373, ext. 264. Bravo for your good deed!

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Rockville, Md.: Summer is around the corner and I'm ready to take the plunge and buy a seersucker suit. I'm looking for a (men's) tan seersucker suit that's sold in separates, preferably with flat front pants. I can't buy a suit off the rack without having the pants recut. Any ideas where I can look?

Janet Bennett Kelly: My best guess would be J Crew and then Brooks Brothers. J Crew's Web site shows seersucker separates in khaki and blue.

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Kensington, Md.: A friend took me to Anthropologie the other weekend and I think their stuff is really neat, but way out of my budget. Is there anywhere in the area that has that style of clothing/shoes/etc., but on a more palatable budget?

Suzanne D'Amato: Quirky, gently broken in, vintage-inspired pieces are Anthropologie's stock-in-trade. That in mind, what about rifling through the racks at an actual vintage store? Annie Creamcheese and Meeps are two of my favorites. Chatters, do you have any vintage-store tips to share?

If you don't care for real vintage, try Urban Outfitters (they and Anthro are owned by the same company, after all) or the H&M in Georgetown. The latter recently had a first-floor display that struck me as very See By Chloe -- which is one look that Anthropologie is ripping off a lot of the time.

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Atlanta, Ga.: I keep hearing that yellow is the color of the season... but didn't it peak last spring? I have a yellow eyelet sundress from last spring/summer, but I'm afraid it'll look too 2007. What accessories should I wear with it this year?

Suzanne D'Amato: You're right on both counts. Yellow was indeed a popular color last spring, and it's big again this season. Trends these days are a funny business. Some of them come and go in the blink of an eye, while others linger longer than you would ever dream -- or, indeed, hope -- possible.

That said, this season's yellow is a bright, happy marigold -- I think it'd look great with wooden or tortoiseshell accents.

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Brigantine, N.J.: In the summertime, what is the general rule about wearing/not wearing pantyhose in an office environment? Also, does the faux pas of wearing white before Memorial Day still stand?

Suzanne D'Amato: Generally speaking, you can get away without pantyhose in all but the most conservative offices during the summertime. If you're doubtful, look around at what other women in your office (particularly those more senior than you) are wearing, and dress accordingly.

Now, white before Memorial Day? That rule's been out of date for a decade at least!

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Washington, D.C.: I'm in a wedding this Saturday! I'm wearing a pink/coral dress, silver shoes, and a silverish wrap. The question is what kind of purse should I wear? I have a silver clutch, but that seems like a lot of silver. Thoughts? Thanks!!

Janet Bennett Kelly: It doesn't sound like overkill to me, but if you'd like to mix it up some, try to find a clutch in a deeper shade of coral than your dress. I saw lots on sale at Filene's Basement recently.

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Swimsuit shopping: Did I miss the point at which swimsuits became either barely there or frankly made the wearer look like a whale? I'm in my 20s, I've got at least a halfway decent figure, but frankly I don't feel comfortable being THAT exposed (besides, I'm pale, so that's just more territory to worry about burns on!).

Is there anywhere to find a swimsuit that's pretty and kicky that isn't one of the two extremes? A few years ago I could find good things, but alas, my old one has seen much better days (hence my search). If it wouldn't break the bank, that'd be even better (I found a pretty tankini at Anthropologie, but it was upward of $200 for both pieces and my budget caps out somewhere under $100). Thanks!

Suzanne D'Amato: Lots of options here. J. Crew is always a reliable standby; I saw some cute options at the downtown Macys the other day; and Target has their spring break line in (which does include some tankinis). Even Victoria's Secret tends to stock a few modest-looking suits that won't bust your budget.

Now, we have a lot of Anthropologie fans here today, no? I've never been a bit fan of that store -- too pricey for the quality. Tell me, what am I missing?

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All About Jane: Hi, I recently submitted a question to the Got Plans? chat about a replacement store for All About Jane. The stores suggested (My Sister's Closet in Vienna, Redeem or Nana or maybe Intermix) don't really hit the mark for me... Can you think of any others that offer lines like Rebecca Taylor, Nanette Lepore, Trina Turk, and edgier lower priced brands that can be combined for work looks?

I miss the clothing store All About Jane. The staff were so nice and helped me create a edgy work wardrobe that was still professional and that I was comfortable with (I'm not great at putting together outfits!). I'm not really feeling South Moon Under, Sugar, Wink, or Urban Chic for work clothes (Trina Turk, Nanette Lepore, etc.). Any other thoughts? I'll go anywhere!

Save me from returning to clothes boredom!

Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I think Daisy in Bethesda might work for you; they carry edgier brands and the staff there will help you get the look you want. In chain store land, have you tried Club Monaco and Zara?

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Falls Church, Va.: I recently inherited several beautiful silk scarves from my grandmother. All are vintage and a few are designer. However, she did not leave instructions on how to wear them without looking like a dork. Any tips? Or do I have to be French?

Suzanne D'Amato: You don't have to be French, but you do have to pay around with the scarves and see what you feel comfortable with. Off the bat, you might try twisting one into a bandana knotted at the throat, a headscarf, a headband, a belt, or simply tying it to the handle of your purse.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm a 34-year-old woman who hates my upper arms -- they're bigger than the rest of me and flabby and it's pretty unflattering when they're exposed. During the winter this is no problem, but I dread shopping for warm-weather tops because practically everything seem to have cap sleeves in recent years! It's gotten to the point that if I see a shirt with sleeves that reach a little closer to the elbow, I buy it. Do you have any suggestions for sources for cute tops that don't assume every woman wants to expose her upper arms?

Suzanne D'Amato: I've seen a number of pretty batwing tops recently -- DVF and Phillip Lim have both shown styles that might suit you. Stores that cater to working women, such as Ann Taylor, are also good bets for you -- these retailers realize that women have to dress for something other than summer picnics.

Just make sure that whatever you buy is in a fabric that breathes (cotton rather than a poly-blend, for example). Otherwise, you'll be sweltering.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm looking for the perfect white summer skirt. I'm 5'2" and want something that elongates my legs a bit. What materials and cuts should I consider?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Full skirts are popular this season, but I'd stay away from that trend and stick to something more A-line in a cotton or gabardine. And for elongating legs, try a chunky heel or wedge.

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Swimsuits: Seconding Target, which has a surprisingly large selection if you go early enough in the season.

My personal swimsuit pet peeve is that EVERYTHING is a halter top. Can I please have a two-piece with normal straps?

Suzanne D'Amato: Ha! Women who want to emphasize their shoulders and minimize their hips seem to love the halter top, and since so many women want to do this, it's a popular style. Still -- any swimsuit manufacturers reading this chat? Here is a customer who is not being served!

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Anonymous: What is your opinion of the '80s Ralph Lauren look -- pairing a formal type jacket with jeans?

And thin sweaters worn around the neck like a bracelet.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'm going to hedge a bit and say it depends on the jacket and the jeans. I have seen some combos of dressy jackets with dark skinny jeans that I think work well. Look to Kate Moss for inspiration.

As for wearing thin sweaters around the neck, why not instead look for a thin scarf and wear a sweater as intended. The only person I've seen pull off a sweater used as a scarf is a Milanese friend, who was born with a great sense of style.

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Baltimore, Md.: My sister-in-law is getting married in a big to-do this November. It's a daytime wedding but it's in Spain, so the party could last all night. Any tips on where to find a stylish but classic dress? I would like to wear some color.

Suzanne D'Amato: I'd go for something with some high-design details and yes, color. Shopbop.com has several dresses that could work well for you. If you want something not too bare, I like DVF's Kaomo wrap dress, and her Tolara style has those flamenco-esque ruffles at the hem, which feel festive and oh-so Spanish. Both are trendproof choices. If you want something waistless, Velvet's Larista dress is a high-style choice. And Loeffler Randall's metallic dress looks almost seasonless.

So: You have a lot of options! (And if this website's prices scare you, print out the pics you like and go to H&M or Zara to seek out copycat versions.) I'd just steer clear of anything pastel or floral-print -- not glamorous enough for a wedding in Spain, and not appropriate for November.

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Arlington, Va.: Do you know any place a guy can find a nice selection of dress shirts? I'm taller and have a larger neck -- 17.5 -- so when I go to "normal" stores -- they have maybe 10-11 shirts, most are white, blue, or that's it.

Janet Bennett Kelly: If you're bold and have deep pockets, I'd try Thomas Pink -- they have stores in the District and in Tysons Corner. And they have a great selection of shirts -- lavender, pink, stripes, checks.

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Centreville, Va.: Is it 'ever' okay to wear brown shoes with black pants? I have so many black pants and yet I don't want to wear black shoes all the time.

Suzanne D'Amato: It's perfectly fine, but you need to style your outfit in such a way that the combination looks intentional. You might add a chunky wood necklace that matches your shoes, or make sure your shirt's pattern has some chocolate in there. What I would not suggest is a head-to-toe black outfit with brown shoes. That's when it looks like a mistake.

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Albany, N.Y.: I bought a really cute white and brown, graphic floral print silk shift. It's above the knee (but not too), and fitted. I'd like to wear it as a daytime dress for showers and a wedding later this summer, but am stumped for shoes. What color? Heel? etc.

Suzanne D'Amato: I'd suggest a strappy bronze leather heel. Maybe a non-spiky kitten heel if you'll be attending an outdoor wedding? You don't want to aerate someone's lawn with your stilettos.

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Woodbridge, Va.: Hi there, last year I got a Kate Spade bag for my birthday, which I used ALL spring/summer long. It's canvas with a blue and white "net" pattern and green leather hardware. I kept it over the winter in the cotton bag it came with it, and when I brought it out to use again, I noticed a couple of faint stains... Is it okay to get it drycleaned or should I use a stain remover and try to get it out myself? Again, the stains are only noticeable to me, but I am in love with the bag and want to use it for many more summers to come... Any suggestions?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Before doing anything with your beloved bag, I'd call the Kate Spade store in Georgetown and see what they recommend. Don't use a stain remover yourself; my experience with doing that has frequently led to stains that are even more noticeable.

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More swimsuits: I got a Carmen Marc Valvo suit last year that I just love -- very retro inspired/Marilyn Monroe type suit with a sweetheart neckline and rouching.

His suits are very figure flattering and are sexy but not risque. I got mine at Bloomingdales, but I think Neiman's and Macy's also carry his stuff.

Suzanne D'Amato: Carmen Marc Valvo's swimsuits are indeed quite glam and not too bare. They tend to be out of our chatter's $100-and-under price range (more like $130-180), but thanks for the tip!

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Missing All About Jane: For the person looking for work clothes, how about Blue and Green in Dupont? The selection is small, but they have beautiful suits from Nanette Lepore and Rebbecca Taylor.

And for what it's worth, I've found Anthropologie's quality to be good, I still wear a cardigan I bought there 8 years ago! And still get compliments on it!

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the chatter missing All About Jane, a recommendation to try Blue and Green in Dupont Circle. Also, a thumbs-up on Anthropologie quality.

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Hose or no hose: I work in a conservative office and the general trend here has been once it gets above, say, 70, hose are completely optional. Although I would say this past winter I've seen a lot more women (of different ages) opting out completely. And of course, if you're required to wear hose in your office in the summer, no open-toed sandals! I occasionally see women in peep-toed pumps with hose, and please...just don't.

Suzanne D'Amato: Peep-toe pumps and hose are a deadly combination, I agree. Thanks for adding your take! It does seem that by July just about everyone has decided to go bare-legged.

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Rockville, Md.: For the person wondering about wearing scarves, the Hermes Web site Hermes.com has two great guides for tying scarves in different ways. I love wearing vintage scarves and I've gotten some great ideas from there. I usually tie mine closely around my neck twice. That way they don't seem as bulky, but still give an accent of color.

Suzanne D'Amato: Thanks -- this is a great tip for anyone whose chic French grandmere didn't show them how to tie scarves.

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Washington, D.C.: Another source for business clothes donations is "Suited for Change" at

1010 Vermont Avenue, Suite 900 Washington, D.C. 20005 Tel: (202) 293-0351 Fax: (202) 293-0353. The website is Suited for Change

This group provides professional clothing and ongoing career education to low-income women to increase their employment and job retention potential.

Suzanne D'Amato: Another good tip, though this one's not in Capitol Hill.

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Linwood, N.J.: I love shoes! What are some of the hottest trends for spring and summer? I usually prefer classic styles with trendy tendencies, where do you suggest I might find this look?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Crayola colors are hot for spring and summer. So are wedges. Nordstrom's shoe department looks as if it has had a makeover; they carry a wide selection of brands -- from Stuart Weitzman and Tory Burch to Coach and Kate Spade. On the budget-watcher end, DSW is always worth a try, especially when we're talking trendy.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi -- I am newly pregnant and worried about finding nice maternity clothes. Suggestions for work clothes and casual stuff that is not too expensive but still stylish?

Suzanne D'Amato: Well, there's obviously Liz Lange for Target. I've heard good things about H&M's maternity line, too -- since I'm tall and like flowy tops, I've even bought a couple of pieces myself! Local boutiques you might try include 9 Maternity in Rockville and Appleseed in Alexandria and Gaithersburg. Coworkers of mine who've had kids also suggest trying eBay and shopping in plus-size departments.

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Fairfax, Va.: My husband and I are going to Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands for two weeks in early May (!!!). Lots of walking, both city and country. Do you have any suggestions for clothing/shoes? We need comfort, but nothing that screams "AMERICAN TOURIST." Also, we may need something nice (hubby's company is based in Belgium, so we'll probably go out with some higher-ups). Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Don't even think about taking the track shoes you wear to work out. On the other hand, a black pair of pumas with black slacks would be basic and you can mix it with different tops and jackets and dress it up and down with jewelry. Look at the weather report before you go. Northern Europe can be chilly and rainy in early spring, even cold. So, pack sweaters and a light raincoat.

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Anthropologie: They are hit or miss with quality...but I just love the style. I don't know -- their clothes just make me happy! I almost never buy full-price there though -- they have really good sales. However, the gtown store doesn't seem to have the best sale stock, as compared to the one in Tysons.

Suzanne D'Amato: I think you've touched on one reason many women love this store -- their merchandising is just brilliant. It's so much fun to go in there and look at European hand creams, fancy cookbooks and frilly nighties when you're just trying to buy some shirts for work!

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Anthropologie: I think I'm more in love with the overall, unique style of Anthro, and how being in the store makes me happy! I agree that some of their things are poor quality for the price, especially the T-shirt type shirts. But, I think many of their sweaters are of good quality. And I love the accessories, like scarves, gloves, hats, bags, and even shoes. I actually end up buying more of their home decorating items than clothes...

Janet Bennett Kelly: For me, Anthropologie often misses when it comes to fashion, but the home decorating items are a standout, from their upholstered items to their bedding. I was especially impressed by their latest catalog.

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Men's dress shirts: My husband is also tall and has a 17.5 neck. He is also very thin. Since we don't have pockets deep enough for Thomas Pink... the Lands End dress shirts worked very well. Tall size, trim fit. Prices are very good.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks for the tip. I've often found appealing clothing at Land's End, like a kelly green trench coat. Price was great, too.

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Washington, DC: I need some basic, but fun and interesting, not too expensive skirts for spring and summer. Any ideas on shapes and colors that are in and would work with flats? Also, where to get them?

Thanks!

Suzanne D'Amato: A-line styles work well with flats (anything too form-fitting, like a pencil or tulip skirt, needs that bit of added height that you can only get from a heel). I've seen pretty styles at H&M and Banana. For inspiration, check out Derek Lam's and Sonia by Sonia Rykiel's ultra-pricey, ultra-fab versions (you can see both on Net-A-Porter.com). Vintage stores are a great resource, too. Color-wise, go for something bright and cheery. Say no to basic black!

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Minneapolis, Minn.: I have a brother who is very skinny with long arms who has a terrible time finding shirts that fit properly. I think he's about a 14 or 14.5 in the neck with 34 or 35 inch arms and wants a cut through the body that is on the slim side. Do you have any suggestions on brands that might be able to cater to spindly types such as him?

Janet Bennett Kelly: One chatter just recommended Land's End for a similar body type. Check it out.

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Falls Church, Va.: Hi -- Suggestions for an interview outfit for a business-casual workplace in hot and humid weather? Thanks.

Suzanne D'Amato: Are you female? I'm going to assume you are: Try a cropped suit jacket over a breezy top that's a few inches longer than your jacket. You could even try a tank -- after all, you won't be taking off your jacket during the interview. Wide-leg slacks that coordinate with your jacket (without being a perfect match) will look chic without seeming too suit-y. I'd definitely wear close-toe shoes to an interview, but if yours are chic flats you might be able to go sans stockings.

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Arlington, Va.: Help Ladies! I am planning on attending the Virginia Gold Cup this year and need some inspiration regarding my wardrobe. I have been multiple times so know the score, I just feel a little uninspired this year! Have you seen any day dresses in the stores right now that are particularly appropriate and/or do you have any advice on chic colors this spring?

Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I think a feminine floral print would be just what the fashion doctor ordered for the Gold Cup. I've seen lots from BCBG, Catherine Malandrino and Diane von Furstenburg. Trendy colors this spring are bright yellows and greens. Too bright? Try navy.

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Batwing?: You mentioned you've seen tops with batwing sleeves....are these back in style? I have one from a year or so ago (beige from Laundry) and I've been putting off wearing it. Is it time for me to bring it back out of my closet? Thanks!

Suzanne D'Amato: I wouldn't say they're the style of the moment, exactly, but if you want to conceal your upper arms they're certainly an option. Sweet little cap sleeves, or sleveless sheath-y styles, are probably more current.

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Boston, Mass.: I'm in my mid-20s. Coming up in May I'm going to my boss's afternoon/evening wedding followed about two weeks later by a "black-tie optional" nighttime banquet, again for work. I'm hoping to buy a dress that will do double-duty for both (and my boss won't be at the banquet, so she won't know). What are some cuts/fabrics/styles I should look for or avoid?

Suzanne D'Amato: Do you care if your co-workers see you in the same dress? I guess not! Well, I'd look for something in a polished cotton or lightweight silk, with a design that feels more sweet than sexy. A pretty print could be great, but you'll probably get more mileage out of a solid color such as plum or navy -- more summery than black, less memorable than scarlet polka-dot. Cap sleeves could be good, but if you go strapless I'd choose something with substantial straps that bears absolutely no resemblance to a beach dress. And no excessive cleavage, please!

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Fitness fashions: Any ideas where i can find some cute workout clothes that are not too expensive?

Thanks

Janet Bennett Kelly: Dick's Sporting Goods carries lots of brands -- and UnderArmour, which I think is a good deal for the price.

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Suzanne D'Amato: Thanks so much for joining us! Janet and I are pleased to announce the winners in today's beauty goodie giveaway. To the Rockville-based chatter with the tip on Hermes, we have the Dior products. And the chatter with the Carmen Marc Valvo tip gets the Healing Garden trio. Please email me at trendspotter@washpost.com with your name and mailing address, and we'll get those products shipped out to you.

We'll see you again in two weeks! Until then, check out Janet's Spring Fashion Trends story about making runway styles work in the real world...link to follow.

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washingtonpost.com: Spring Fashion and Beauty

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