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 the perfect pair of black slacks? Which new designers are rocking the runway? She's here to advise.

She was online Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 11 a.m. ET with Holly Thomas, Sunday Source Trend Spotter.

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Janet Bennett Kelly: In the words of the much-missed Mister Rogers, "It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood." That said, the state of the economy is causing a collective stomach-churning. In light of the times, have you found any creative ways to economize on your fall wardrobe? Holly and I would love to know how you're coping. And, as always, we've got goodies for best ideas -- a Jacqua shower cream in a raspberry buttercream frosting scent and a Miss Oops! dry sponge kit for dealing with deodorant marks and other clothing mishaps.

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Baltimore: On a more mundane note, pantyhose has been derided as making the wearer look old. Living in Maryland, which has winters, owing expensive shoes and needing to wear suits at times for meetings, what is a proper substitute?

I know that a bare look is in -- but in colder months, what should be paired with a pant and a skirt?

Thank you.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Pantyhose does look dated, but opaque tights in the same color as your suit will look good and appropriate for meetings as winter approaches. With pants, I usually wear a pair of socks that coordinates with my shoes and pants.

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Washington, D.C.: I love the jewel-toned, opaque tights that are popular this season. As a petite size 2 woman, what colors, accessories, and fabrics would you recommend to match or complement the tights without overwhelming my size?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Because of your size, I'd stay with the same color family to create the illusion of height. Look for a simple pencil or a-line skirt -- I'd stay away from anything with a lot of pleats or fabric. The same goes for accessories. Don't overload with necklaces, even if it is the trend.

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Derwood, MD: I bought a pair of darling James jeans, however they're a bit too long. I know that when altering dress pants, the hemline still looks the same -- the crisp polished end look. For jeans though, will a tailor have the jeans look like its been made at that length originally or will it look like it was folded over and sewn? Will any tailor do jeans well?

Holly Thomas: I've found that most tailors can shorten jeans and keep the original hem if you request it. It costs a bit more, but it does keep your nice jeans from looking like a DIY project. I'd recommend calling a few tailors in your area to get an idea of pricing before you choose one.

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Silver Spring, Md.: I noticed that Sarah Palin often does not wear nylons/hose, including when she accepted her nomination for vice president. I didn't notice whether she wore hose for the debate. I also do not wear hose often, even in a professional setting (I'm an attorney). If you don't have to wear nylons with skirts when you are accepting the nomination for vice president of the United States, when do you?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'm not sure I would hold up Sarah Palin as someone whose fashion judgment I'd follow.

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Open toes, N.C.: Questions about open toes and tights. I have black patent open-toe sling-backs and also have black patent open-toe closed-back pumps with wooden sole/heel. Would either of these work with black tights for fall/winter? Or are the shoes too summery? I am still wearing them bare-legged, but it is going to get too chilly here for that pretty soon. Thanks.

Holly Thomas: I'd recommend saving the open-toed slingbacks for days when it's warm enough to skip legwear (or when you're sporting pants). The traditional closed-back pump seems more autumn-appropriate, and I think the look works best with very opaque tights. For fall, the chunkier the heel, the better.

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Washington, D.C.: I am on the hunt for some great brown riding boots for the season that won't cost me $500. I found a steal at Urban Outfitters for $150 but when I saw them in person, the pretty tan is really a very light blonde color. Any ideas?

Holly Thomas: Have you tried Bakers Shoes? The website has a fair amount of equestrian-inspired styles; my favorite is the Izzy buckled boot, which rings up at about $140. You might also have some luck at Steve Madden -- the Deportes boot is a gorgeous option -- though the brand does seem to getting more expensive by the day.

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Logan Circle, Washington, D.C.: I have short, extremely fine hair. When it's wet, it's shiny and spiky/feathered (think Katherine Moennig.) This is great. I want it to stay that way when it dries. Instead, it dulls, congeals, and goes limp. Aveda's control paste produces shine, but too much weight; it looks good immediately after I tousle it, but won't stay in place. Hairspray just makes it crispy and helmet-like. I know there's a product that will do what I want, but I am not well versed-enough in the dark arts of hair to know what it is. Share your wisdom, please?

Holly Thomas: If my powers of imagination are working, I'm guessing you have a cut a la Natalie Portman's pixie 'do of a few years ago. If that's the case, I'd apply volumizing mousse to wet hair and use your hands to pull hair up and back. When you're happy with the shape, set it with a light shaping spray. Try Bumble & Bumble's Does It All or Cibu's Pho Finish, two working sprays that won't leave you with helmet-head.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Hello,

Can you or your readers tell me of a good source for fashionable shoes that come in wide? I already shop Nordstrom, but I'm looking for something else. Thanks.

Holly Thomas: Zappos.com is one easy place to start, since the site allows you to search dress, casual and athletic shoes by width. If you wear a size 10 or larger shoe, I'd suggest taking a look at BarefootTess.com, which stocks a variety of styles in wide widths. Chatters, got any other suggestions?

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Bethesda, Md.: Are leggings still being worn? If so are they okay for a trim young looking over 50 woman? What shoes does one wear with them?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Yes, leggings are still in style, although I've never been a fan of the look unless you are model-thin (no bumps) and tall. You could wear a tunic over them and then wear ballerina flats.

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Buffalo, N.Y.: To Logan Circle Washington DC

I also have very fine hair and found Fekkai's Glossing Cream does the job without weighing down my hair. A pea-sized amount does the trick.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I've tried Fekkai products and have had good results as well. The trick with any of these -- especially with fine hair -- is only to use a small amount.

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Washington, D.C.: Can you recommend a store where I can shop for jeans with great, knowledgeable customer service? I went to National Jean Company in Bethesda this weekend, and don't think I could have gotten any assistance even if I'd set myself on fire.

Janet Bennett Kelly: My go-to source for jeans advice is leaving Denim Bar and going out on his own very shortly. So, I can't be sure that the staff remaining will be as great as Mauro Farinelli was for advice. I've had luck with the staff at Neiman-Marcus and a so-so experience at Barneys.

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Shoe correction: My mistake, the Web site is The Pretty Pear.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Noted.

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A Great Dress!: I have a wedding scenario too good to be true. Three weddings within 5 weeks and there will be NO overlap of people. Which means, I can wear the same dress to each! How great is that? The weddings are in the winter months and I'd like to spend a bit to get a really great dress for each. Any suggestions on a good dress that will work in D.C., N.Y., and Tx., a great style to look for, and the best places to shop?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'm confused; do you want to buy one dress for each or one dress for all? And you didn't say whether the weddings are at night or during the day ...

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Arlington, Va.: Good morning Janet and Holly. What's my best bet for wearing tights and a skirt/dress to prevent static cling? Should I just invest in one of those basic sprays I can get at Target? What do you recommend?

Holly Thomas: I actually swear by a good silk slip in a mini- or knee-length -- I have a few vintage Christian Dior pieces from my mom, and they've come in very handy over the years. Scope out department stores' lingerie departments, or comb secondhand stores for pretty, vintage options. I can't speak to the effects of those anti-static sprays, but perhaps our chatters can?

Janet Bennett Kelly: A slip sounds like a good idea. Has anyone tried Bounce to combat static cling?

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Bethesda, Md.: Hi ladies, love your chats! I've been searching for a great cocktail ring. I love oversize antique rings as well as large faux gemstones. Can you recommend any places in DC/MD that carry a good selection of vintage jewelry? I've been to Annie Creamcheese a few times but I'm looking for somewhere off the beaten path.

Holly Thomas: You should take a look at Legendary Beast on U Street -- the small space is crammed with rings, necklaces and bracelets that run the style gamut from funky Egyptian Revival to 1970s swank. Last time I checked, the prices were very reasonable. Flea markets are another fab place to search for cocktail rings -- I've had good luck at Eastern Market in the past, as well as at the weekend market at the Courthouse Metro stop.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Justine Mehlman in Georgetown is going out of business at the end of this month, and she carries fabulous antique jewelry, which she's now selling at half-price. I intend to look this weekend to see if I can snare a bargain!!

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Static: Static Guard is excellent. I buy 3 cans at a time during the winter. I don't love using dryer sheets because they can leave a film.

Holly Thomas: Thanks for the tip on beating static cling!

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Re: Shoe issues: I have kind of fussy feet too (due to breaking a bone in my right foot several years ago). For the gal who is looking for wide shoes, try Aerosoles and Easy Spirit as one-stop shops. And a great blog to read all about shoes (and shoe issues, including finding the perfect wide pair) is Pretty Pair.com. Good luck!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks for the follow-up.

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Economizing: This may not be the most creative thing out there, but I create a budget at the beginning of each month and determine how much money can go toward clothes. Then, I don't feel guilty and know I'm not living beyond my means when I buy a cute dress or pair of shoes. The only downside is that you need to track your spending to make sure you're staying within budget.

Janet Bennett Kelly: That seems like a very sensible approach to economizing. Spending within our means is what we all should be thinking about doing!

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Washington, D.C.: Hi there, this is for the person is Silver Spring: I have the very same problem, I wear a 8 1/2 W and its hard to find cute shoes in my size...and I love shoes! check out Nine West(one of my favs) and Bandolino(which I'm actually wearing today)for cute styles. Also, Chadwicks, and even Kohls. Hope this helps.

Holly Thomas: Helpful tips for the chatter looking for wide-width shoes ...

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Rockville, Md.: I enjoyed your article Secondhand Savvy and your write up on 5 local thrift stores. Glad you were able to find some good deals. How did you pick the 5? Please note that The Look Again Thrift store in Virginia is a charity -- all the proceeds go to the Prevention of Blindness Society. They also have another resale shop in Kensington on Antiques Row. They both have a great group of volunteers. Also NAMI, in Kensington is a charity for the mentally ill. Just think, you can find great deals and help a wonderful cause. Keep Shopping!

Holly Thomas: So glad you liked the piece! We got a few pointers from local super-thrifters and scoped out a few places we'd been curious about in the past. We wanted to make sure that we spread our search around the Maryland, Virginia and DC area, hitting up expected locations such as Goodwill as well as off-the-beaten path spots such as the Look Again resale store.

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Cambridge, Mass.: I have a bronze-ish strapless dress to wear to a wedding in November. I am not a big fan of wraps -- they feel fussy, and they're inconvenient when you're dancing -- What kind of sweater/jacket do you think I should look for, so I don't freeze at the reception? Or should I just get a wrap and practice wearing it around the house, so I can cope with it at the wedding?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Wraps are definitely inconvenient for dancing. On the other hand, presumably, you just need it when you arrive and can take it off once things warm up. But you could look for a dressy sweater/jacket (with some jewelry detail) to wear over your dress.

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Washington, D.C.: As far as economizing on my fall wardrobe, remember my high school days going to thrift shops in Laurel, I headed out to visit some family in that neck of the woods and stopped off at a Goodwill and Village Thrift and picked up navy blue Ferragamo flats ($4), a maroon leather jacket, no collar, hits at hip ($15), a tan blazer with slightly puffed sleeves ($3) and a polyester navy/skyblue button down with tie at the neck ($2)! Vintage at thrift shops, takes a little more time to pick through, but DEFINITELY worth it...

Holly Thomas: Wow! Did you nab these finds recently? Good for you -- I'm now obsessed with thrifting and have been back already to search for a few fall skirts. Glad to hear that you're having good luck!

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Static cling: Rub a little hand lotion on your hands and then on your tights -- works great

Janet Bennett Kelly: For chatters with static cling, try this suggestion.

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Baltimore, Md.: Any suggestions for an evening wedding in NYC this weekend? I'd like to look sexy on the dance floor but it's an outdoor wedding and I don't want to freeze either...

Janet Bennett Kelly: A friend just found a gorgeous emerald green strapless dress at Nanette Lepore in Bethesda. Definitely sexy, but you'll need a wrap. Gosh, it's supposed to be cold this weekend. Hope there's going to be some heat source!

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Courthouse, Va.: Can you give me some tips on wearing opaque tights? Can I wear them with lighter colored skirts (like light gray).

Janet Bennett Kelly: You can certainly wear them with a light gray skirt -- navy or eggplant would look swell.

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Open-Toed Booties: HI Ladies -- First time chatter but I must say I'm impressed with what I've read thus far. I'm glad I found you! I love the open-toed booties that are fashionable this fall but am not sure how they should be worn. Can they be work appropriate? Or should I save them for weekends and evenings out? Skinny jeans or will a skirt do? As you can see I'm muy confused. Help!

Holly Thomas: Thanks for joining us! I think this really depends on your workplace -- if the dress code is relaxed, I'd coordinate the booties with tights in the same color to keep the look streamlined, and pair with a skirt to make your ensemble modern and work-friendly. For weekends and evening out, pair them with jewel-toned tights and a short dress or skinny jeans and a boy-cut blazer for something a bit more fashion-forward.

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13th and I, NW, Washington, D.C.: My co-worker recently passed along a great anti-static hint she learned from her mom and grandmother -- wear your slip inside-out and it will not create additional static. She says it works because the seams add a layer of air. I plan to try it this winter.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks to you and to your co-worker's mother and grandmother for that useful hint!

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Cocktail Rings: For the person interested in Cocktail Rings, try Kenneth Jay Lane, Zappos.com and I believe HSN or QVC sell a lot of his stuff and he's super cool!

Holly Thomas: Kenneth Jay Lane specializes in of-the-moment accessories -- good tip for chatters looking for new jewelry.

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Economizing: I am learning to sew! I have made a few pieces from scratch so far and will also be altering pieces I already own. I am excited to wear things that have been sitting in the back of my closet for so long.

Holly Thomas: Good for you! I have a long list of things to alter, but I've been in need of some inspiration to make me break out my own sewing machine. Learning to sew is a great way to salvage some of your wardrobe.

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Budgeting for the Fall: I am trying to get as much use out of my summery clothes as possible, with some fun new twists! I LOVE wearing my flirty sundresses with boots and thin cardigans on top. Old outfits look new with a fabulous colorful scarf thrown around the neck or some great statement jewelry. And now that it is getting a little cool, it's amazing how many of my skirts will work with thicker tights and chunky heels! I've only had to buy some inexpensive but fun and colorful accessories, and have been able to build a pretty solid fall wardrobe. of course, there are some big ticket items on my radar, like a great wool coat and some new boots, but those will come once my budget allows!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Love the idea of getting the most out of your summer dresses by adding cardigans and boots. It's perfect weather to do just that.

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Washington, D.C.: Good morning! A while ago, DC Scout featured a store that sells accessories, home decor, and other items -- all available in a few distinct colors and patterns (such as zebra, giraffe, and Middle Eastern-inspired prints). What caught my eye was a great little alarm clock available in pink or green. The store had a cute Web site -- the home page displayed a virtual store front with a black and white striped awning. Well, now I can't seem to remember the name of the place, and I'm dying to grab the alarm clock for my newly redecorated bedroom. Could you provide the name of the shop or a place where I can get a grown-up looking, non-digital alarm clock? Thanks much!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hi, there,

I should know the answer to that, but I'm at a loss at the moment. Holly, any chance you know what the chatter is referring to?

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Speaking of whereabouts:: I read in FW magazine of new (to me) fashion options. Where and what is Muleh, seems Carbon carries nice men's shoes, any women's selection, I tried to call the number in FW it was wrong and where is Alex boutique now.

Holly Thomas: Muleh is a high-end fashion and home furnishings boutique on 14th Street, just south of U Street. If you're in the market for Phillip Lim and like-minded designer finds, it's a must-see. The sales are worth a trip, too. Carbon has a good selection of funky men's and women's shoes (think Tsubo and Biviel, and the boutique just launched an eponymous line) -- you can find them at CarbonDC.com. Alex boutique closed, sadly.

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Fairfax, Va.: Hi ladies! I embarrassed to ask this, but what exactly is a "Trunk Show"? Thanks....

Janet Bennett Kelly: A trunk show is the term used to describe a designer's collection, often the new or upcoming one. So, for example, if you see a mention of a trunk show now, it's probably for a designer's resort or spring collection.

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Washington, D.C. -- thrift shop girl: I got them yesterday!! I think I am also going to become quite addicted to thrifting again..

Holly Thomas: One lucky thrifter ... the "slow fashion" movement should catch on with finds like these.

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Springfield, Va.: Hi! I have a cute coat but it's not very warm. Is it typical to get extra lining added to the inner layer? Where could I get that done? Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I don't know if that's an easy thing to do or not. Have you spoken to a tailor about whether that's doable or not for your coat. You don't want to end up looking liked you're stuffed into it. Is it possible to add some thin layers under it, rather than adding lining?

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Winter wear: I'm a big fan of fall clothing, assuming the temps drop in the near future, do you have any boot suggestions for a woman with tiny calves? What style will look best if they aren't going to hug my legs?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Have you looked for boots in suede or a faux suede? They tend to hug the calves better than leather.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi.

Small problem. My U St. standby for Fall Boots is gone. Wild Women is no longer there and I am looking for unique, quality boots for fall. I loved WWR because they avoided the mainstream brands of the world (I can get Delman and Tory Burch on the Internet). Can you provide a unique Plan B?

Holly Thomas: I agree that WWR's demise is too bad for us shoe lovers. If you're looking for unique, well-made options, I'd try Carbon on U Street, Sassanova in Georgetown or Shoefly in Clarendon.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Another option would be the Little Shoebox in Bethesda.

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Houston, Tex.: I've got a utilitarian black leather purse from Fossil. It's a great everyday bag but because I carry it everywhere, the leather has gotten really scratched and smudged. I asked Fossil what to do about it but they were clueless. What can I do or where should I go to get it buffed up? I'm in Houston so the usual D.C. suggestions don't apply. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Some dry cleaners have associations with shoe and handbag repair places. I'd look for a local recommendation if I were you.

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Alexandria, Va.: I am trying to build my current professional wardrobe the cheapest way possible -- I am thinking this is by buying accessories. Is this the right thing to do? If not what should I do?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Accessories are a great, inexpensive way to update a wardrobe. Scarves, jewelry, belts, hose, shoes and handbags can quickly change a look.

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Semi-Formal?: Thanks for taking my question! I'm going to a 4 p.m. wedding in the midwest in early November. The invitation said, "Semi-formal, i.e. the groom will wear a suit instead of a tux." I have a long-sleeve, knee-length gray wrap dress; would this be appropriate?

Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I think semi-formal means cocktail attire, so your gray wrap dress sounds a little somber to me.

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Wide feet: I also have wide feet, but have a lot of luck with Charles by Charles David, which are available at Endless.com.

Holly Thomas: Thanks!

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Dallas, Tex.: For the wedding-goer with the strapless dress, I've seen several cropped cashmere cardigans -- most recently on the Boden site. A black, plum or ivory one would look nice with the dress without hiding it, and a cropped cardi is less hassle than a wrap.

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the chatter in search of a sub for a wrap, this chatter says try Boden for cropped cashmere cardigans.

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Washington, D.C.: Hey, I'm a 20-something female who is horrible at making decisions about clothes. My friend just went to Lost Boys (after reading your column!) and loved all the help he got from Kelly. Is there a similar store like that for us girls?

Holly Thomas: I find that smaller boutiques are the way to go if you're seeking personalized attention. I've heard good things about Betsy Fisher on Connecticut Ave., and you might try Treat in Alexandria. I'd recommend going to boutiques during the week, when there are fewer customers, and making regular visits -- that way the sales staff can get to know your style and point you to things you'll love.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I agree with Holly. Betsy Fisher is known for its personal service. And in general, smaller boutiques are better for individual attention. Not too long ago, I got lots of personal attention at Annie Creamcheese -- hint: I went on a weekday.

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Fairfax, Va.: Hello.

I bought a pair of claret red suede knee high boots from Kenneth Cole last year but have not found anything to wear them with. I absolutely love them and wear them around the apartment occasionally. What would you recommend? (that doesn't have a 'I wanna be Wonder Woman vibe') If it helps, I am 5'2" and 31 years old. My style is mostly comfy sweaters, long cardigans, jean and the occasional above-the-knee shift dress. I tried wearing them with a brown jumper that has the same red in it, but I looked like a schoolgirl-superhero-wannabe. Also, would wearing tights that are a different color (grey, black, brown, etc.) make my legs look shorter? (or am I imagining this?)

I would appreciate any advice you could give. Thank you.

Holly Thomas: The boots sound lovely, so you should introduce them to the outside world by wearing them with some slim-fitting jeans, tucked into your boots, and maybe a long cardigan in cream or brown. You could also try a short, cropped swing jacket instead of the cardigan to play with the proportions a bit.

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M Street: I'm a compulsive browser so I'm always on the prowl for a good deal or a piece that I love. I've started only buying what I need and instead of splurging on something I fall in love with, I simply transfer that money from my checking account to my savings account. I know it's crazy, but I really do feel like I'm paying myself each time and making smart decisions. Just thought I'd share!

Holly Thomas: Good tip - congrats on your admirable self-control!

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks for joining, everyone. But we gotta roll out of here. But not before naming our prizewinners. To the chatter from Dallas who suggested the cropped cashmere cardi instead of a wrap goes the shower cream and the Miss Oops! kit goes to the Static Cling chatter who recommended putting lotion on your hands and then your tights to solve the pesky problem of cling. Send your name and address to trendspotter@washpost.com and we'll get those goodies out to asap. See you in two weeks!

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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.