Talking Fashion

Every other week washingtonpost.com Fashion and Beauty Editor Janet Bennett Kelly is here to talk fashion. Want to know where to find perfect black slacks? Which new designers are rocking the runway? She's here to help.

She was online Tuesday, August 19, at 11 a.m. ET to answer your fashion and style questions. Michelle Thomas, Sunday Source Trend Spotter contributor, was her guest.

A transcript follows.

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks for joining us this Tuesday morning. Anyone else love DC in August? Anyhow, as usual, we've got goodies for your clever suggestions -- a pair of Laura Mercier shimmery lip glaces and a 24-ounce grapefruit shower gel from Philosophy. Sooo, let's talk fashion.

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Midwest: I just bought a fab vintage A-line jacket, mid-thigh length. It is bright orangish-red, and the lining is the same color but needs to be replaced.

I was thinking of something more dramatic -- cream with big black polka dots? Some kind of paisley? Any ideas you have are appreciated!

Michelle Thomas: LOVE the idea of cream-and-black polka dots! That'll be more interesting than a solid but still feel vintage...

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Washington, D.C.: Hi! I've been a fan for a while but this is my first time submitting a question. I'm moving to New York at the end of the month. Although I'm excited for the move (and the shopping!), I'm also intimidated. I'm on a tight budget but I still want to take advantage of the incredible selection there. Do you have any tips? Not just stores, but general ideas for finding shops in a new city?

Janet Bennett Kelly: You lucky girl, you! Probably the best way to find good shops is word of mouth. I'd also subscribe to New York magazine pronto or read it online until you can get a hard copy.

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Arlington, Va.: Hello! I will soon be looking for maternity clothes. I would like to look fashionable as my body explodes, but I can't afford the cost of an entire wardrobe. I know Target has a line of maternity clothes. Are there any other stores where I can find bargains, or maybe splurge on 1 or 2 key pieces?

Janet Bennett Kelly: There's 9 Maternity in Rockville, and Daisy Baby and Mommies Too in Bethesda. I'm not sure of the price points, but these stores would be worth checking.

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Washington, D.C.: Is there any make-up remover that really works? Some secret product I haven't discovered? I've tried Lancome, Almay, L'Oreal, Boots, Albolene, and many others but none seems to really remove ALL of my eye liner and mascara. Even if it looks like it's gone, in the morning I always see that some is left. My opthamologist is really keen on this point. And I'm not even speaking of waterproof make-up! What do you recommend??

Michelle Thomas: My go-to eye makeup remover is Benefit's Gee... That Was Quick! Silly name, but it's oil-free and very gentle on my sensitive eyes. It usually removes my non-waterproof mascara and eyeliner without a problem. Chatters? What makeup remover do you swear by?

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Alexandria, Va.: I'm attending a wedding in Philly in early October -- wearing a classic J. Crew emerald green dress (slightly darker emerald shade). I want to add a pop of color in a belt, shoes, clutch (not necessarily all those at once!). What color(s) would look great with emerald green for early fall?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I would go with purple, and since your dress is dark, you probably should choose something equally as intense. It's this year's go-to color, so I don't think you'll have trouble finding something.

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Boots: I found a great pair of fashion boots but they seem kinda short (a good four inches below my knee). Salesman told me they are supposed to be that way but they seemed too short. Any idea where to find taller boots?

Michelle Thomas: Don't be scared off by shorter styles! Knee-high boots are still around and we've been seeing some super-tall over-the-knee types, but short boots (ankle and calf) are EVERYWHERE. Watch for our piece on fall boot trends in Trend Spotter in a few weeks.

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Ashburn, Va.: Hello! I'm leaving in 3 weeks to go to Spain (Madrid and the coast) for a couple of weeks. What can I take with me that will help me blend a bit and not stick out so much? I don't mind being a tourist because, well, I am, but, I also don't want to be seen as a classless tourist. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Well, I can tell you what not to wear -- white running shoes. That will make you stick out like a tourist, especially in Madrid, which is a stylish, if conservative, city. Pack a pair of jeweled ballet flats instead.

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For mom-to-be: There is a maternity outlet at Potomac Mills that has cute stuff at good prices. Also, try subscribing to your local Freecycle online group. Occasionally I see women giving away their maternity clothes and typically they say they are still in great condition.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Here's a note about a maternity outlet for the mom-to-be. Thanks for the tip.

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Washington, D.C.: Male, 46-yo attorney. I need to buy some business suits. 2 or 3 button? No pleats, right? Cuffs or no? Thanks.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'd go with two-button unless you're very slim. No pleats, please and no cuffs.

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Denver, Colo.: RE: Eye makeup remover. I found that no matter what brand of eye makeup remover I buy, it never fully removed my eyeliner. So I've been dipping a Q-tip in the eye makeup remover and gently going over my eyeliner with it. It's the only thing that works to really remove all of it.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Looks like a chatter in competition for a prize. Thanks for the tip.

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Baltimore, Md.: Hello! I have a navy blue, fitted, school boy blazer hanging in my closet... mostly collecting dust. Can you suggest a way to wear it that won't make me look like a 7th grade private school student? Love your chats - thanks!

Michelle Thomas: To keep from looking like you escaped from a prep school, try pairing your boy blazer with a flirty, girly piece like a short, swingy dress. Or try wearing it with skinny gray jeans and ankle boots.

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Hampton Roads, Vv.: Makeup remover: go low-tech! What works best for my eyes is just a dab of my favorite (unscented) moisturizer on a cotton square. Rub the eyes gently, then wash off with warm water. I think it works because some of the eye makeup is oil-based and the oils in the lotion help dissolve it off. Plus, it gives the skin around your eyes a little extra moisture.

Maternity clothes: you can also always shop around at the thrift stores and see what they've got. It might not get you out-on-the-town clothes, but if you can save a few bucks for some jeans to wear on weekends you can use that towards a couple nice outfits.

Michelle Thomas: Tips on makeup remover & maternity!

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Washington, D.C.: I'm going away on a romantic getaway over Labor Day weekend with my boyfriend, and I'd like to surprise him with some fantastic but not too pricey lingerie. Besides VS, where can I buy some classy, sexy and trendy lingerie?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Sounds like fun. A few suggestions: Trousseau in Vienna, Jaryam in Georgetown, Coup de Foudre downtown and Sylene in Chevy Chase.

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Dupont Circle: For the chatter moving to NYC -- As a former New Yorker, I think the best way is to walk and explore your neighborhood. If you're lucky (like I was!), there will be a number of cute boutiques within walking distance of your place. There are so many great shops, you should be able to find something you like. You'll also find tons of restaurants and get to know your 'hood -- which will make NYC feel much more like home!

Janet Bennett Kelly: A tip from a former New Yorker for the chatter moving to the Big Apple. Thanks for the download.

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Arlington, Va.: re: makeup remover. It sounds old fashioned, but honestly Ponds Cold Cream works the best. My eyes are sensitive, and oily eye makeup removers sting (even Lancome's sensitive eye makeup remover makes them red!) so I've tried everything, and this worked the best for taking off makeup without leaving my eyes red and stinging.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Another chatter chimes in on eye makeup remover. Thanks.

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Alexandria, Va.: I have a wedding etiquette question. How much white in your dress is "acceptable" at a wedding (for a guest)? I have a great off-white eyelet dress with a black underlay that peeks through all of the eyelet holes. It doesn't look like a wedding dress, and the black underlay is pretty distinct. But since the main dress is white, is it inappropriate to wear to a wedding? Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hi, Alexandria,

I'd say if you're having doubts about wearing this dress to the wedding, then you'd be better off trying something else. You'll feel more comfortable and have a better time if you're more confident about what you're wearing.

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DC works in Baltimore: Hi, I'm wondering what kind of pants you'd wear with a blousy Indian-style tunic. I have some from India that hit mid-thigh, but also some fakes from H&M that just go to the hips. Any ideas for what to wear with them for work?

Michelle Thomas: Blousy tunic tops call for a slimmer pant to help balance out the volume on top. Skinny or straight-leg fits usually work best with a floaty shirt. Try looking for an Audrey-style cigarette pant.

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Arlington, Va.: I have a 20 year high school reunion coming up. I want to look fabulous, but look my age. Any advice on good places to look for a dress? Thanks.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I recently saw some lovely dresses at the Nanette Lepore store in Friendship Heights. They're feminine and chic.

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Washington D.C.: Hi ladies, thanks for taking my question! I know leggings are a bit last season, but I'm anxious to invest in a good pair to wear under skirts and with boots during the fall and early winter. In the past I've picked up a few pairs at Target but they of course wear thin and usually fade. Do you have any suggestions on a good brand that is better quality but not designer? Thanks!

Michelle Thomas: I never adopted the leggings look, but I've definitely taken to keeping a few pairs on hand (leg?) to wear under boots in the winter. Hue and Spanx are my top choices for reasonably priced leggings and tights that last more than a few wearings. Make sure to check discount stores like Filene's and Loehmann's to get them on the cheap!

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Durham, N.C.: I swear by baby oil to remove makeup. It removes everything the best of anything I tried, and it's cheap. Sometimes my grandma's old-fashioned suggestions are the best ones!

Michelle Thomas: A simple solution for removing makeup!

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Work tote in Alexandria: Hi Janet and Michelle, I am trying to find a work tote that is fashionable, in a neutral color and won't break the bank (pref under $150). I need it to be big enough to hold a newspaper, lunch, heels, my planner and a maybe a small book or magazine. Any suggestions? THANKS!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Juicy Couture has some canvas totes that I saw at Nordstrom for $98. Also, Target has a large selection. I would also look at Nine West and Kenneth Cole.

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Woodbridge, Va.: I can't find hats that fit me! It's really embarrassing. The only hat I have that fits right is one that looks like you'd see it on a canoe trip - it even has a chin strap!

I would love to have some hats, and headbands (whole other story) that I could wear for fashion and sun protection. Is there an online site I can buy larger hats that aren't goofy looking? Or a store I can go to? With kids, online is most likely the best option. Thanks.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Proper Topper has stores in Dupont Circle and Georgetown as well as an online site. I realize that getting out can be difficult with kids, but nothing beats trying it on. If you do buy it online and it doesn't fit, think of the time it will take you to return it.

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Midwest - for the pregnant poster: The pregnant chatter should look into getting a Bella Band to help with the pregnancy wardrobe issue. I got a couple during my last pregnancy, and even at around $30 a pop, they were still a cost-savings in terms of helping me expand my wardrobe. I got to stay in my regular clothes much longer, and they were also invaluable at the end of the pregnancy (when everything starts pulling up over your stomach!) and postpartum as well. Especially now that the "layers" look is in, Bella Bands are a good choice.

Janet Bennett Kelly: That's a great suggestion for expanding a mother-to-be's wardrobe. Thanks for the tip.

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Alexandria, Va: I know you keep telling men no pleats, but could you start telling women to buy shoes that fit? If you wear a size ten shoe you can't "get away with" a 9 in an open back or thong. It is really gross your feet hanging over the shoe!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I heartily agree, Alexandria. In addition to how it looks, it's also a no-no for the health of your feet to squeeze your tootsies into too-small shoes.

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Washington D.C.: Time for a beauty question! I just bought a nice hair dryer and it came with a diffuser. I usually let my hair air dry if I want it to stay naturally wavy, or I use to dryer to blow dry it straight. So what on earth do I do with this circular contraption?!

Michelle Thomas: Your hair sounds like mine! You can use a diffuser to get the same wavy results as if you air-dried, but quicker. It usually gives me some extra volume, too. Use it on the low setting with high heat and gently "scrunch" the ends of your curls onto the attachment, if that makes sense.

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Bethesda, Md.: My boyfriend and I attended a wedding this past weekend, one of the few times I get to see him in a suit. He is about 6'5" and fairly skinny, so as you can imagine his off-the-rack jacket usually makes him look much wider. The suit is Calvin Klein and pretty well constructed, but when I mentioned that he might want to get the jacket tailored, he just looked at me with his "I've-already-paid-for-this-suit-once" face. I've never had anything tailored myself so I couldn't come up with a good argument on the spot! A little buy-in would work wonders..

Janet Bennett Kelly: Tailoring can make a big difference in the way clothes fit, and since your boyfriend is tall and thin, he should take advantage of his slim silhouette. Does that help?

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DC, DC: Baby oil is a really BAD idea for removing makeup. It can clog the tiny pores and tear ducts. At least that's what my opthomologist said.

Michelle Thomas: Yikes, a warning about baby oil as makeup remover...

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Shaw, D.C.: I'm moving to a smaller closet and am wondering if anyone here can recommend a good closet organizer. I'm a clothes horse and have weeded out a bunch of things but still have too much to fit on one bar in a closet.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Try Lilly's Closet. She's helped quite a few clothes horses I know!

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flats: I'm looking for some stylish but really comfortable and supportive flats that I can walk and stand a long amount of time in. I can never find both. And they're for work so black/tan would be best. Any suggestions? I really need to get them this week. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I empathize with the problem. Lots of cute flats have no support at all! I think your best bet is to look at Cole Haan or Geox. Or if you have money to burn, Ferragamo.

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Going Back to Work: After working out of a home office while kids were young, I am getting ready to go back to a real office. I have mastered the current pants styles, layering, etc. But I am stumped on how to wear skirts. I last wore pantyhose with every skirt to the office. What can you advise now?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Skip the panty hose and opt instead for opaque tights and boots.

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Alexandria, Va.: I'll be attending a wedding on Sept 13 and had a question about my dress and shoes. The wedding starts at 5pm and it is being held in the backyard of one of the families in Maryland. My initial plan is to wear my knee length black dress (sleeveless). Does this sound appropriate and if so, what shoes would work well given the location? This is the first wedding I've been to in several years. Thank you!

Michelle Thomas: Black sounds a bit serious for a backyard wedding. It's a celebration! What about a fall-appropriate jewel tone? Amethyst or emerald could be so pretty in September.

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Diffuser: I have naturally curly hair, and find that if I use the diffuser, I get a bit more frizz than if I let my hair air dry. I still use the diffuser sometimes (like when I don't have time for air drying) but I use a bit more anti-frizz product. Hope this helps the chatter with the new diffuser.

Michelle Thomas: A suggestion for the diffuser novice.

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San Francisco, Calif.: Best eye make-up remover ever - Neutogena Oil Free Eye Make-Up Remover. Easily takes off even waterproof mascara. It's only been around for a year and can sometimes be hard to find (I stock up when they have it in the stores).

Also on maternity - try the sale section of Japanese Weekend. They items are very stylish and I always got compliments when I wore my dress from there (that was reversible and could also double as a skirt).

Michelle Thomas: Another suggestion for makeup remover, and one more to follow...

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Reston, Va.: For eye makeup remover--I swear by the Philosophy Purity cleanser. This stuff would probably remove tar if used as eyeshadow, and yet is the most gentle cleanser I have ever found. One key thing for me when washing my face in the evening: I do it in the shower, rather than at the sink. No matter how tidily I put up my hair with a headband, I never feel totally clean at the hairline, and jawline, because I don't want to dunk my whole head in the sink! Bonus: no more breakouts at the hairline, which my dermatologist told me years ago were largely attributable to not adequately rinsing cleanser off in that area.

Now, my mother swears by Johnson's baby oil for removing eye makeup--I know, it sounds gross, but at 73, she has about 2 wrinkles and almost none around her eyes. My 40 year old sister, on the other hand--wrinkle city, so it's not all genetics.

Michelle Thomas: I also love Philosophy cleansers...

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Washington, D.C.: I have a cute little shirt dress that after wearing for the first time, I managed to sit in some chocolate. The stain just will not come out! Is there somewhere that I could perhaps get the dress dyed a different color...it's now a light khaki color. Can my dress be saved?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Do you really love the dress? If so, take it to Parkway Cleaners -- they have stores on upper Connecticut in Chevy Chase and also in Silver Spring. I wouldn't try to dye it before exhausting drycleaning possibilities.

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Washington D.C.: I'm getting married in early October on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. Where would you suggest I take my mother, age 60, but looks about 40, (with a figure to match) for a non-matronly "mother of the bride" outfit. The weather will be warm (80 degrees), so the fall clothes that are in all the stores now are not going to work.

Thanks for your suggestions!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I would look for a St. John knit -- maybe a sleeveless dress with a jacket. This brand used to have the rep of matronly but not so much anymore. Angelina Jolie was in all their ads, and she's anything but. You might even be able to score a sale at Neiman's or Saks Fifth Avenue.

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Wow. Lots of great questions and suggestions -- thanks, all. The chatter who suggested Bella Bands for expanding a mother-to-be's wardrobe snags our Laura Mercier lip glaces and for the person who recommended Philosophy Purity Cleaner, you get, appropriately enough, the Philosophy shower gel. Write to us at trendspotter@washpost.com, and we'll deliver the goods. We're taking some summer vacation but will be back again to talk fashion on Sept. 16!

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