Talking Fashion

Janet Bennett Kelly and MichelleThomas
Fashion and Beauty Editor, washingtonpost.com and Sunday Source Trend Spotter Contributor
Tuesday, October 28, 2008 11:00 AM

Every other week, washingtonpost.com Fashion and Beauty Editor Janet Bennett joins forces with Sunday Source TrendSpotters Michelle Thomas or Holly Thomas, to talk fashion. Searching for the perfect pair of pants or boots to go with your new fall knit dress? Which new designers are rocking the runway? They're here to help.

They were online Tuesday, Oct. 28, at 11 a.m. ET to answer your fashion and style questions.

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Good Tuesday morning, all,

Brr. It's beginning to feel a lot like winter, although warmer temps are on the calendar for the weekend. If you're feeling slightly schizophrenic about what to wear during these days, you're not alone. Michelle and I would love to hear about your clothing choices. In honor of the puddles, I have on my new Hunter wellies in navy blue, courtesy of a friend who bought them for me in London -- about the only deal she could nab there.

As always, we have prizes for you today -- a trio of Essie's fall nail polishes and a Bumble & Bumble shine spray. Ready to talk fashion?

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Fairfax, Va.: Hello.

I am looking for skinny jeans that can be tucked into knee- high boots (which are already snug at the calf so straight leg pants are too wide). Do you know what stores or brands sell them in short lengths (I am 5'2") for less than $50?

Thank you.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I don't know if you can score any for less than $50, but one place I'd try would be Urban Outfitters. Good luck hunting.

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Arlington, Va.: Janet and Michelle -- I have a pair of navy blue pinstripe pants that are a gorgeous wool/silk blend. Now is the perfect weather to wear them -- but I'm coming up short with what color top to wear them with. My brain doesn't want to go past basic white or ivory (and really, white with blue seems a little odd for the fall season). Any suggestions?

Janet Bennett Kelly: With navy, you have lots of options. You could go with burgundy, burnt orange, camel or mauve, just to name a few. It's really a question of what color complements your skin tone best.

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Fairfax, Va.: Hello.

I would like to get a pair of jeans hemmed. What is the average price for simple hemming in Northern Virginia? I've been quoted $15 to $18 by three tailors. Is this a fair price? (for straightforward hemming -- no reattaching the original bottom of the jeans)

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hi, Fairfax,

That seems a tad high. I've spent $20, but that was for reattaching the original bottom. Chatters, any suggestions for a tailor in No. Va.?

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Jeans for Men: Hello,

So I'm a guy in need of some help, namely, that I cannot find jeans that are my size ever. I'm short and thin...so while I can find 29 x high 30s or 40s, I cannot find 29x30, my size.

Any ideas on where to go? For both nice jeans and cheap ones? My Old Navy jeans have reached their age limit.

Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Even though my buddy Mauro has left the Denim Bar (stores in Pentagon Row and Bethesda), the staff there should be able to help solve your problem. Also, Barneys carries lots of different jeans styles, and for less expensive options, there's always Gap.

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Silver Spring, Md.: I'm realizing that fashion matters to me somewhat, but I don't know much about it or where to start. Can you guide me to a book or two that discusses how to put outfits together? I need something pretty basic.

Also, I would like to buy a few pairs of pants that are better quality than what I have now, but I don't want to spend too much (preferably less than $50 per pair). I need gray and navy pants. Would thrift stores be a good place to look, or are there stores that you recommend?

Thanks for hosting these chats! I've really learned a lot about fashion from you guys!

Michelle Thomas: Did you see our reviews of four new style advice books in Sunday's Trendspotter? The new style guide from Isaac Mizrahi might be useful. Otherwise, I'd recommend taking a peek at the Lucky Shopping Manual, which is a really fun and very accessible guide to the basics of building a fashionable wardrobe -- it offers must-have pieces for every part of your closet, from lingerie to outerwear to footwear.

And definitely check out consignment stores for inexpensive pants. Try Dupont's Secondi or Clarendon's Current Boutique.

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Washington, D.C.: It's that in-between time of year where I can't wear open -toe shoes anymore, but I'm not quite ready for boots every day. I have been doing black trouser socks with black ballet flats, but I only have one pair so that only gets me so far. And I would like something with a bit of a heel.

Can you suggest a closed-toe option with a short (less than 2"), stable heel that's relatively comfortable for commuting?

I face this dilemma every year and still haven't found a solution! Thanks.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I hear you, Washington. I don't feel like wearing boots yet every day either. Yesterday, I was surfing around on PiperLime, and I saw several options for shoes with just a bit of a heel that looked comfortable and stylish. So, check it out.

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washingtonpost.com: Trend Spotter ( Sunday Source, Oct. 26)

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Arlington, Va.: Where can I shop for work clothes on a serious (grad school) budget? I'm not looking for a few good pieces, but several okay ones that will last through next year.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Try Loehmann's and Filene's Basement -- they're across the street from one another in Chevy Chase, but there are also plenty of other locations for each. Another option I like is Club Monaco -- tailored, classic clothes. And don't forget sales. They've just begun, but I imagine they're going to be a lot more because of the economy.

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NW D.C. -- 2nd winter in D.C.: Good morning, stylish mavens. I consider myself a sophisticated male (in his 30s, stylish haircut/glasses) who has traveled to Rome and Paris, and wears DSquared-Martin Margiela during my off-hours.

My office is fairly casual; I commute via Metro; therefore, I walk, run, and traverse the Metro escalators. With these caveats, should I even consider buying corduroy trousers for winter? Or should I stick only to wool trousers? Also, keep in mind, the streets and sidewalks get fairly raunchy with the coming rain, snow, ice, and salt. These items may get deposited on my pants. -- I realize I now live on the east coast, and people dress a bit more formal than L.A. Hence, I'm asking your opinion. -- Merci. "West Coast Single Living in D.C."

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'm loving wide-wale corduroy trousers for men and women, and yes, they're subject to the grime of the streets and the escalators. But with wool pants, you definitely have to dry clean them. Some corduroy does perfectly fine in the washing machine.

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Springfield, Va.: For both chatters looking for jeans in small or short sizes: Old Navy, where I got a pair of women's skinny leg jeans in a short length for 29 bucks and Kohl's, which has a huge selection and a seemingly endless sale. There is always the online option with both of these stores, too.

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the jeans searchers, here's a suggestion about Kohl's and Old Navy.

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Silver Spring, Md.: I just got back from Paris (my first time) and I noticed that 95 percent of the women were wearing scarves -- gauzy ones looped around the neck, silk fringed ones. Do you know where I can find similar ones, either here or in NYC? Perfect excuse to ride the Megabus up for the day. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: You don't have to go to NYC. J. Crew has some gauzy, lightweight ones; I saw a cashmere one at Club Monaco for $99. I was recently at a flea market in Annapolis and I saw some for $35! Love the scarf look!

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Alexandria, Va.: Help! My look is completely blah. During the week I wear dark trousers and a solid shirt/blouse/sweater. Weekends, jeans. I'm boring! What are some fun, cheap ways to look more stylish and put together, even on weekends. I work in a fairly casual office during the week and chase after a toddler on the weekends. Would love any suggestions!

Michelle Thomas: The easiest and (usually) least expensive way to spice up to a less-than-thrilling wardrobe is to add some fun accessories. I'd try perking up your basic look with a playful bag in a bright color or a fun texture like patent or snakeskin. Take a look at Target's latest accessories collaborations with Anya Hindmarch and Sigerson Morrison -- the latter offers purple jeweled flats (and for the more daring: electric blue suede booties!) that could be just the thing to spruce up your look.

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Washington, D.C.: In reply to the first questions, Forever 21 has skinny jeans for less than $20. They are dark denim and look great.

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the chatter in search of skinny jeans for less than $50, Forever 21 should be your next stop.

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Re: Skinny jeans: I don't know if they come in short lengths (you can always have them hemmed), but Forever 21 has skinnies for $12 or $12.50. Can't beat that price. Also try Mossimo at Target. They are in the $25 range.

Michelle Thomas: A chatter's suggestion for skinny jeans. My 5'1 roommate got a very flattering pair of skinny dark jeans from Old Navy last season, so you might want to check there, too.

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Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C.: This past weekend I got a great pair of navy corduroys at the Ann Taylor outlet (on sale too!). I'm wondering what shoe/boot color works best with them. Any suggestions?

Janet Bennett Kelly: In my book, navy is a neutral, so you have many options. That said, personally, I love navy with cordovan, gray, black patent leather, burgundy....

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Penn Quarter, Washington, D.C.: For Washington, D.C. looking for comfy commuting shoes I love, love, LOVE Chie Mihara shoes.

She's got a background in orthotics so her shoes are really comfortable to walk in and they also manage to be cute and funky. Anthropologie and Bloomingdales both carry her line.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hi, Penn Quarter,

Thanks for the heads-up on Chie Mihara.

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Vintage buttons: Where can I get vintage buttons for sewing projects?

Michelle Thomas: There's a really interesting store in Bethesda called Accessories of Old that sells tons of very cool vintage buttons, ribbons, lace, trims, etc., plus costume jewelry and other wares. Most, if not all, has never been sold or circulated and is in vintage "new" condition.

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Ann Arbor, Mich.: I just bought a grass-green wool coat for winter. I wanted something outside my normal black/gray winter coat. Any suggestions for scarf color? I was thinking dark blue, but too preppy? thx

Janet Bennett Kelly: Congrats on going outside your gray/black comfort level. Grass-green sounds lovely. Make it smashing looking with a scarf in a shade of purple!

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Falls Church, Va.: I'm the fashion consultant for an insanely skinny man. He's 31 and a size 26 waist and 29 length. Any clue where to find grown up dress pants and jeans? I'm at a loss. Kid's pants have tiny pockets that bother him, and I'm not sure how much a pair of 28s can be tailored.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Does this insanely skinny man have deep pockets? If so, I'd send him or go with him to the Saks Fifth Avenue Men's Store in Chevy Chase. They carry lots of European lines that should be just great for his body type.

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Oxford, U.K.: I was also just in Paris last week and I thought those scarves, which you do see everywhere, are similar to ones I saw at Urban Outfitters in the U.S. last month. Kind of gauzy with metallic threads, I bought a few there myself.

Janet Bennett Kelly: So, for those gauzy scarves, look at Urban Outfitters.

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Gaithersburg, Md. : I need a new catch-all bag for the fall. I would love to get something in brown and black or some fun color that would go with both colors. Do you have any suggestions? I want something that can hold a bunch of stuff, but I'm only 5'2" so I dont want one of those massive totes. I have shopped around all the major department stores with no luck.

Michelle Thomas: I know I JUST mentioned this in a previous answer, but you should take a look at Anya Hindmarch's collection for Target, available for pre-order now. The line offers some beautiful patent totes in black/navy and black/chocolate/gold that would be so versatile but not as basic than plain black or brown. I'm already trying to decide which one I want to buy!

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State College, Pa.: I have two beauty-related questions.

1. Lip Balm. I'm in search of the perfect lip balm. My lips have gotten seriously chapped this fall and nothing seems to work. Furthermore, my husband refuses to kiss me if I have anything on that he defines as "sticky" or "slimy." (We might be venturing into Hax territory here...) In any case, I was wondering if you or chatters could recommend a very light lip balm with a cherry flavor. (My favorite lip balm is Carmex, but my spouse absolutely hates it.) They say marriage is all about compromise, right?

2. My salon provides free bang trims. Is it proper to tip on a free service? It takes my stylist literally 30 seconds to trim my bangs, so this isn't a lot of time. But if tipping is appropriate, I'd like to know.

Thanks! I always enjoy the chats.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Not sure what your price range is, but Kiehl's makes a terrific lip balm with an SPF 15. It's very moisturizing with the added bonus of protection from sun and wind, which can really make your lips chapped. Also comes in colors, although I doubt flavors. As for the free bang service, I'd go for a nominal tip just to say thank you.

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Falls Church, Va. (response to Jeans for Men): Hi there! In response to the "Jeans for Men" post, my husband is, well, let's face it, short. We find great bargains and great jeans at outlet stores, that tend to carry jeans in sizes that may not sell so well in the main stores. Try the Leesburg outlets!

Janet Bennett Kelly: For jeans for men of all heights, this chatter says get thee to the Leesburg outlets. Sounds like a plan to me.

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Red Sox Nation: For scarves, H and M usually has nice ones in different weights for $7-$15... I have a bunch of lightweight ones with fringes that I carry around all summer and wear in the evenings when it gets cool, and some warmer ones to wear in the winter. (Um, there's no such thing as too many scarves.)

Michelle Thomas: I've found some nice scarves at H&M in years past, too. I also love to search eBay and Etsy for fab vintage silk scarves.

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Portraits Advice: I am on the plump side (size 12/14). What should I wear for the dreaded family portraits? I'm 34 if that makes a difference. Darker colors? Layers like a cardigan and shell? A simple V-neck sweater?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Darker colors do tend to make you look slimmer, and the less layers the better if trim is the look you're going for. But don't go too bland -- add a pop of color in your jewelry, for example, or in a scarf.

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Arlington, Va.: Hi! My friend has been looking forever for a good pair of boots. She is looking for a riding boot style, however, her calves are usually just barely too big to fit most of the nice ones she finds. I know J. Crew has some great looking riding boots and I noticed that some come in "extended calf." Does this mean the boot is taller or wider? If it's not wider, does anyone have any suggestions for high quality/high end (she's willing to spend) riding style boots with wider calves? Thanks!

Michelle Thomas: I'm pretty sure the "extended calf" sizing offers a wider circumference. And I think you can see the width for the styles on J. Crew's online sizing chart.

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Knee-High Boots: Hi Ladies, I have been searching in vain for three years for a pair of knee-high black leather boots. I wear a size 6.5 shoe and don't have large calves at all, but nothing will zip up even more than halfway. I don't want to spent more than $150 on them, but I really want a pair! Any ideas?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hmm. That's surprising to me if not confounding. Maybe you should try a pair that you pull on instead of zip on. Nordstrom usually has a big selection of styles and boots, as does Macy's.

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Skinny jeans under 50 bucks: Try Delia's. Really. I bought a pair of skinny jeans there and they have a huge range of sizes (starting at 00 and going up to 15/16) and four different lengths, and several different washes. I think they were $39. I bought a pair of the dark wash "Morgan" skinny jeans in a size 1/2 (I usually wear a J. Crew 0 petite), and they're great. By the way, I'm 44 years old and they are perfectly appropriate, although I can't say that for most of the rest of Delia's clothing, which is definitely aimed at the teen crowd. But for hard to fit small sizes, it's worth checking out some of their basics, no matter your age!

Michelle Thomas: Good tip!

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Washington, D.C.: For the person who wants a great catch-all bag. Lands End has a new patent leather tote that comes in several colors, including black, orange and purple. If you're preppy like me, you can also get it embossed with your monogram for only $5 extra.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hey, D.C.,

Thanks for reminding me of that bag. I noticed it a while ago and agree with you wholeheartedly. It's a great catch-all bag. Chatter in search of the very same, are you listening?

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Re: Lip Balm: My favorite lip balm that is very light is the Nivea lip balm. It reminds me of my other favorite, Labello. It is not greasy or stinky and comes in plain, a cherry (with teeny hint of red color)and a berry (with a hint of more violet color). They are great, and about $2.50 I belive.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Here's a shout-out for Nivea lip balm and Labello. Can't beat the price.

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Washington, D.C.: Is there somewhere in DC/MD/VA I can go to be properly fitted for a bra? I just watched Tim Gunn's show and was inspired.

Michelle Thomas: I've heard much praise for Sylene's in Chevy Chase for this.

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Skinny guy, Va.: Yeah, his pockets aren't that deep. I'll take him to check those out, but otherwise, any more low end ideas? Jeans are pretty easy, since skinny teens are everywhere, but dress pants for a lawyer cannot be bought at American Eagle!

Janet Bennett Kelly: How about Brooks Brothers then?

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Charlotte, N.C.: Can I wear a navy top with gray pants? If so, what about shoes? Navy seems too matchy-matchy. Ideas? Thank you!

Michelle Thomas: Yes, you can certainly wear navy with gray! I'd try a rich, saturated jewel tone for shoes, like a crimson or eggplant. A patent would be nice, too.

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Dress pants: Hi ladies, I'm struggling with a happy problem -- most of the pants I bought in the last two years are now too big. Yay! But unfortunately, I look ridiculous at work with belts cinching my slouching pants. Do you think it's worth it to get these pants taken in at the waist? How much will this cost for lined, wool slacks? Or will it be better to just invest in new pants, though I'll need to pay to have them shortened. It's been a pricy 15 pounds!

Janet Bennett Kelly: If you like the pants in the first place, then I suggest having them taken in. If it's just the waist line that needs alteration, I wouldn't imagine that it would be that costly and far less expensive than investing in a new pair. Congrats on the weight loss.

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Olney, Md.: My usual hair stylist just bought the hair salon. I used to tip her when she was just the stylist -- do I continue to tip her now that she is the owner?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Personally, I don't tip the salon owner but I do give him/her a Christmas present at the end of the year -- a book, a fruit basket, something to show that I appreciate his services.

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Roanoke, Va.: Good morning, fashionistas. Since we're all thinking about stocking up for fall and winter now that the weather is finally turning cold, I wanted to pass along an online shopping site I just discovered (although others may know all about it already): Yoox.com. It carries a really interesting range of (mostly European) designers -- hundreds of them. It offers a pretty broad range of prices, with some real bargains, especially on their sale pages. The site is almost overwhelming, it offers so many choices. But it's such fun to browse among brand names I've never heard of.

Michelle Thomas: Yes, Yoox is a great online store -- and a few times a year it has amazing "sample sales" where you can find high-end designers at rock-bottom prices (but you really have to pounce!)

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Winston-Salem, N.C.: A good friend is having a a pretty lavish party at a country club in a few weeks to celebrate her 40th birthday. She mentioned that she would be wearing a long gown to the party and felt that many of the other guests would wear long dresses as well. I hate how I look in long dresses -- do I dare wear something short and fun knowing what my friend will be wearing? (I am 5'3 and I look like I am playing dress-up in a long gown). Thank you!

Janet Bennett Kelly: If you're more comfortable and know you look better in a short dress, then by all means go with something short and fun and enjoy the party.

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Lip balm: Burt's Bees has a new lip balm with pomegranate oil in it -- it's called "Replenishing lip balm," and it's great. Goes on very smoothly. It's probably two bucks at CVS or Target.

On jeans hemming -- I used to pay $12 at a tailor in Bethesda (Pam and Polly's), and they charged $14 for doing the original hem. I recently paid $12 at a local dry cleaner's in Chevy Chase. I used to hem my own jeans, and it's totally worth the $12 to have them done right.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Lots of folks swear by Burt's Bees. I haven't tried the balm with pomegranate but look forward to giving it a try. And thanks for the tip on having your jeans hemmed right.

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Washington, D.C.: Totally agree with the etsy recommendation for vintage scarves (and beautiful non-vintage handmade accessories too). In fact, there is a great craft show this Saturday in Bethesda with lots of great jewelry and accessories from local (many etsy) artisans. I'm after a sterling "paper airplane" necklace myself. Check it out DC Craft Mafia

Michelle Thomas: An event for crafty types and Etsy fans...

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Baltimore, Md.: Hi. Question on boots with skirts. I'm fairly short, so I've heard I shouldn't wear any skirts longer than knee-length. I also heard somewhere that if you wear boots with skirts, you shouldn't be able to see any skin, that is, the skirt should touch the top of the boots. Yet I'm always seeing people out wearing above-the-knee skirts with knee-high boots. So is that look OK? I want to wear my new black boots that hit just below the knee, but don't want to go buy unflatteringly long skirts. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Above-the-knee skirts/dresses with knee-high boots is a fine look. Don't forget the tights now that the days are getting cooler.

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For cheap professional clothes (the grad student): Try places like Marshall's, TJ Maxx, Ross, and your local thrift stores. I was a poor medical/graduate student for nine years and needed professional clothes and these were my haunts. I snagged beautiful wool coats (business style), designer pants (I'm tall and a hard fit), and tops/jackets for as little as $2. I just bought a new Biasia purse for $20 (orig was $400-500). Oh, and garage sales. You'd be surprised what you can find.

Janet Bennett Kelly: From someone who's been there, a note to the grad student in search of professional-looking clothes on a budget.

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Washington, D.C.: I have a passion for fashion (my closet shows it) and I like to consider myself trendy. But, I keep having days where I feel like I have nothing to wear. After reviewing my closet I have A LOT of solids. I have a lot of colors, but not much pattern. Is there a basic pattern jacket, pant, or skirt that I could get to revive my somewhat boring wardrobe? (I'm 26 and petite if that helps any)

Janet Bennett Kelly: Because you are petite, you may want to stick to jackets or shirts with small patterns. I can't recommend any one thing; bring in your solids and see what you can find that complements them.

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Minneapolis, Minn.: The fad of the past couple years has been high-cut capri pants that go with boots (the pants end about the same height as the top of the boots) and I think this looks absolutely TERRIBLE. Are we about to see the end of this travesty? The only type of capri pants that look decent are pencil-cut -- a la Audrey Hepburn look.

Michelle Thomas: This is not my favorite look, either. Short pants are still all over the place, though -- but more recently they're being shown with strappy sandals or with booties, and a bit of ankle is shown between the shoes and the pantleg. It's definitely not the best choice for ladies on the shorter side (me).

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Ballston, Va.: I recently found some beautiful J. Crew patent flats on super sale. The color is "bright poppy" which is a reddish/orangey shade. What kinds of colors should I wear these with? If I wore them with a skirt, could I do tights? If so, what colors wouldn't make me look like an elf? Thanks!!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Since your shoes are the show stoppers, be careful to keep the rest of your outfit on the subtle side.

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Scarves: All the talk of scarves inspired me to go put one on...

Michelle Thomas: Hah, I've been eyeing mine, too.

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks, everyone, for all your questions and suggestions. We really appreciate them! The chatter who suggested Delia's for skinny jeans under $50 will get the Essie trio and for the woman who recommended the patent Lands End tote, you, lucky girl, get the Bumble & Bumble hair shine. Send your name and address to trendspotter@washpost.com, and we'll get those goodies right out to you. See you in two weeks!

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