Talking Fashion

washingtonpost.com Fashion and Beauty Editor Janet Bennett joins forces with Style's Shopper fashionistas Holly E. Thomas and Michelle Thomas to answer questions on everything from what influence Michelle Obama will have on fashion to how to make the runway trends work for you.

They were online Tuesday, Jan. 6, at 11 a.m. ET to answer your fashion and style questions.

A transcript follows.

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Happy New Year, everyone, and thanks for joining in today's conversation. Have plans to attend an inaugural ball and wondering what's appropriate attire? Michelle and I are here to take your questions. As always, the best suggestions get the goods -- this week, a palette of gold makeup from Benefit and a lavender-scented home spa set. So, let's get going!

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D.C.: Could you recommend any sewing classes for beginners in the D.C. Metro area? One of my resolutions for the new year is to learn to sew and start making my own garments. If it is cost effective, that would be even better! Thanks.

Michelle Thomas: Good idea! G Street Fabrics (www.gstreetfabrics.com) offers sewing classes for all skill levels.

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D.C.: Basic matching question -- I recently went up a pants size, so I went out and bought a new pair of jeans. I had a hard time finding my size because I'm tall, but I ended up with a great fitting, long pair of jeans that are a dark navy. I'm having a hard time matching them. I only have two shirts that work, and all my coats are black. How many fashion rules am I breaking if I continue to wear these jeans with black shoes and a black jacket? What colors match on top other than off white, light gray, and navy-ish? Even dark gray looks funny with these jeans, and the black jackets also don't look so hot. Thanks!!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hi, there, D.C.,

Great that you could find a pair of jeans that fits perfectly. As for the black and navy combo, some folks don't like it -- I'm not one of them. And if it makes you feel any better, neither was Coco Chanel or the French in general, where black and navy are considered a chic combo. But if you'd like some other color choices, how about something in either pale or a slate blue or taupe?

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Washington, D.C.: What are your suggestions for spicing up a basic black dress (halter style) for an inaugural ball without breaking the bank? Since a lot of us are in "recessionista" mode this year, bonus points if you can suggest a new spin on items everyone may already have in her closet.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Have any metallic cuffs and/or necklaces in your closet? Black and gold is a great combination. What about some shoes with a gold accent or some festive embellishment -- a pair of those part of your wardrobe? A lacy pair of hose can also add some interest to your LBD. I don't know how some faux long pearls would look with the neckline of your dress, but experiment if you have some strands. Chanel mixed faux and real, by the way.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Hi Janet and Michelle,

I love platform shoes. By which I mean not the current 5-inch heels with a small platform on the bottom, but the small "heel" big platform that was available in the '40s, '70s, '90s and earlier this decade. I have balance problems and they give me the height I want without the danger of falling down. Can you point me to a source? Thanks!

Michelle Thomas: I'm having trouble envisioning exactly what you mean, but I'd suggest shopping vintage for this. I'd probably stick to online vintage boutiques and eBay, since you're searching for a specific piece.

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Washington, D.C.: Enough with winter, on to spring! What are the trends/colors I should be looking out for?

Michelle Thomas: Agreed! Did you see the Trend Spotter's Dec. 21 spring preview? It looks like futuristic shapes, Egyptian motifs and sherbet hues will all be big for spring. Also watch out for birdcage heels, slouchy, '90s-inspired menswear and a continued interest in fringe.

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washingtonpost.com: Sunday Source Trend Spotter (The Washington Post, Dec. 21, 2008)

Michelle Thomas: Here's the link to Trend Spotter's spring preview.

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Making your own clothing: Making your own clothing is generally not cost effective. Patterns are expensive, as is good quality fabric. However, knowing how to sew is a wonderful skill to have. Rather than a class on construction, why not try to find a class that teaches basic repairs and adjustments. Knowing how to hem and make minor alterations is cost effective. Also, learning how to make accessories (tote bags, etc.) is fun, creative and usually cost effective.

Michelle Thomas: One chatter's opinion on sewing your own clothes...

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Vinegar: I have been washing my clothes in white vinegar (that's it, no soap) for a few weeks and I think I'm sold. The vinegar leaves no odor, and my whites are dazzling. It's also cheaper and better for the environment than soap. Even my husband's J Brand jeans looked darker.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Interesting that you should mention that. I've been adding some bleach to my wash to see if that would make a difference in my white shirts. But vinegar is far better for the environment, as you say. Worth a try, chatters!

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Woodley Park, Washington, D.C.: Help! I'm going to the Human Rights Campaign ball and the attire is "creative." Whatever that means. Presumably anything formal will do. Where should I shop (preferably in the District) for a dress? One that doesn't cost an arm and a leg and is more fashion forward than basic black. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I would interpret "creative" to mean you can push the envelope and add your own spin to black tie. We've been seeing a lot of pretty hair combs recently that pack a lot of style. Does vintage appeal to you for a dress? If so, look at Nana in the U Street neighborhood and The Remix on Capitol Hill.

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Washington, D.C.: For the inaugural ball question: I'm also wearing an old basic black dress, and I found a great vintage velvet jacket to go with it (more interesting than a boring shawl). Vintage/consignment shops are probably a good place to look for other accessories, too.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks, D.C., I'm in total agreement re: vintage/consignment shops. They're an ideal place to look for accessories to spice up your basic black dress.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm so glad you're having this chat today. I just found out that I have to attend TWO inaugural balls this year, one on Monday and one on Tuesday. I don't have much money to spend for two formal gowns; unfortunately there will be some guest overlap and I can't get away with rocking one dress both days.

Any suggestions in the DC/MD area? Thanks much.

Michelle Thomas: Lucky you! For all the chatters looking for gowns on a budget, I'd suggest hitting up the Chevy Chase shopping strip to visit Loehmann's, which offers a fairly large selection of evening wear on its second floor. If you don't find what you need there, try the neighboring Filene's Basement or scope out Bloomingdale's selection. Good luck and have fun!

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Olney, Md.: To spruce up your footwear wardrobe without breaking the bank, check out shoe clips. They can add color, make an old pair of shoes new again, or just change up your footwear regime.

Also, changing buttons on tops and jackets can make old pieces new.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Good ideas, Olney. Love the idea of changing buttons to make tops and jackets look new.

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Making your own clothing redux....: I agree that in many cases, it's not cost effective to make your own clothing. In some cases, though, it can be. I've taken three sewing classes at G Street and once you get beyond the initial investment of class fees, a machine, tools and patterns (which admittedly is not a small investment) you can find great deals on fabrics. I made a gorgeous charcoal gray wool pencil skirt with $5 worth of fabric (on super sale), $2 thread and a $1 zipper. I saw a very similar one at J. Crew for $120 and mine is nicer fabric and fits much better.

So I treat it as a hobby (almost all of which cost money) and am pleased when I can get a "deal" like my skirt.

I also agree that learning to do alterations yourself (which is easier than sewing from scratch anyway) can be a BIG money saver. Hemming pants for work is so easy on my machine. I'd much rather do it myself at this point than pay $15 per pair.

Michelle Thomas: More thoughts on making your own clothes. Sewing your own pieces still sounds like fun, regardless of how cost-effective it might (or might not) be. And how I'd love to be able to hem my own pants!

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Bethesda, Md.: Hi ladies! I know nobody has mentioned this yet but I was on the prowl to score one of Thakoon's dresses for his Target line that was released right after Christmas. After selling out online, and at nearly every store in the DC/MD suburbs, I finally found a bunch hanging on the rack this past weekend in Frederick. Just wanted to throw out the suggestion to anyone else who may have been looking as well, since they seem to be few and far between. Try the stores a few exits removed from the Beltway.

Michelle Thomas: Ooh! Great find. Thanks for the tip!

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Platform shoes: Sorry -- my description was vague. What I need are shoes that, without the platform, would be flat or have up to a one-inch heel. The platform itself might be a few inches. Thanks!

Michelle Thomas: Oh, got it! Some chatters suggest checking out the Sundance catalog or Dansko.

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Washington, D.C.: I am attending an inaugural ball, and have a beautiful metallic gold BCBG dress with subtle silver and gold beading at the bustline. I am wondering, however, what color shoes and clutch to match with it. I feel like it would be hard to match the gold in the dress, and silver just doesn't look right. Suggestions?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Dress sounds lovely; and I agree that it would be hard to find a match for the metallics. Personally, I might try to find a pair of flats with a jewel embellishment -- Sigerson Morrison showed some this fall. Another option is a mid-high heel in black satin with a matching clutch. Keep in mind that you need to be comfortable because you're likely to be doing a lot of walking!

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Fairfax, Va.: Also, to jazz up a LBD, try swapping accessories with friends -- I've done it with scarves, evening bags, jewelry, wraps -- you name it. It's "new to you" (for the evening anyway), costs nothing, and can make an old dress or outfit feel completely new.

Michelle Thomas: Hah -- very true. I do this with my roommates just about every day!

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What to wear with winter white pants: I have a pair of wool winter white pants that I love except I only have one top to wear with them. I don't think buttondowns would work and a sweater might make the whole thing look too bulky. I'm not much of a turtleneck person but could do it if the right turtleneck presents itself. Any other suggestions for what to wear? Or where to shop -- budget-friendly please. I bought a house, so my budget is even tighter than a turtleneck.

Michelle Thomas: It's hard to say without seeing the cut and style of the pants, but how about a slim-fitting sweater in a bold color? A nicely cut style in a lighter-weight (like merino wool) would keep it from being bulky. Try checking out J.Crew's sale options for this.

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Just curious: You mentioned the subject of how Michelle Obama's style will influence fashion...and that got me thinking about other First Ladies. Aside from the obvious, impeccable example of Jackie Kennedy, who do you think has had a big influence on American women's fashion choices?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Beyond Jackie, I'm not sure any of the recent first ladies have had much of an impact in terms of personal style. I do think though the designers they choose to wear have had some influence. For example, both Hillary and Laura Bush have worn Oscar de la Renta. Lela Rose was also favored by the Bushes and her business definitely got a boost from that.

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Washington, D.C.: I am looking for some jewelry to wear to an inaugural ball with my gown. Any suggestions for stores that won't break the bank?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Try Loehmann's and Filene's Basement or Annie Creamcheese in Georgetown. Cecile Jeanne tends to be more expensive, but worth a look to see if they have anything on sale. I also am fond of Tabandeh in Mazza Gallerie.

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Laurel, Md.: For an upcoming party, I found a dress that I really like; it's a very dark navy blue, with a champagne (very light gold) colored sash under the bustline. The problem is, I have no idea what color shoe to wear with it. I can't find anything to match the navy, and I thought gold looked too garish with it. Would silver work? What else could I try?

Michelle Thomas: I'd probably continue shopping for a muted metallic gold shoe -- perhaps in a matte gold to rep on the champagne hue. Avoid silver. Otherwise, you could try a neutral with some texture, like a natural-hued snakeskin print.

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Lots of winter weddings to attend: I just bought a dark blue, silk v-neck dress that hits slightly below the knee from J. Crew. It's very pretty but also a little boring. What color shoes and what accessories do you recommend to liven it up a bit?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Color can liven up your dress, but so can shoes with jeweled embellishments or feathers (very popular now)! How about a vintage velvet jacket in whatever color you can find one in?

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Sunday Source: Now that the Sunday Source is gone, where can readers find your reviews/articles? I'm so disappointed because I LOVE the Sunday Source. And for that matter, where can readers find any of the sections that used to be in the SS? Will they all be in Style & Arts or somewhere else?

Michelle Thomas: Thanks for the kind words! We're still working on getting our some of the best Source features to live on in the paper... stay tuned!

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Boston: I will be wearing a strapless dress for a formal event. Although the dress is black, it's very ruffly. Can I still wear a "statement" necklace with the dress, or will I be competing with all of the ruffles? It seems that most people choose statement earrings when wearing strapless dresses, but since I would like to wear my hair down, I don't think my earrings will show. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: If you want to keep the attention on the dress, keep your necklace on the simple side -- something without too many layers and stones. If you want to forgo the necklace, I think a glitzy pair of chandelier earrings will stand out even if you wear your hair down.

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Inaugural Jewelry: I've noticed that some mall stores have great fancy pieces with some shine that are fairly inexpensive. Ann Taylor Loft, The Limited, and even Banana Republic have great bold pieces that I think would work for an inaugural dress. The Limited accessory store at Tysons Corner is the best because they have stock there that they don't have in any other store! I got a great bib-style jeweled necklace there for New Years that was under $30.

Michelle Thomas: Banana Republic and J.Crew both had some showstopping pieces in their holiday collections -- and the baubles are probably on major sale right now.

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Jewelry for Inauguration: I'm always surprised by the plethora and range of jewelry options available at department stores. Macy's, for instance, has an enormous jewelry department with dozens of different brands. I love to "window shop" there. Nordstrom's is higher end and carries Judith Jack and other great jewelry designers. Those are the places I'd canvass first.

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the jewelery seeker, this chatter has found lots of options at department stores.

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D.C.: I have a black strapless A-line dress that I have relied on to get me through a bunch of semi-formal and dressy events in the past year, and because I want to look like I'm wearing something different each time I spice it up in different ways depending on the event. The key is to find a statement-making accessory. Sometimes a big chunky necklace or chandelier earrings, sometimes snazzy shoes or bright wrap, even hair and makeup can change an entire look. It's the easiest and cheapest way for me to feel like I'm still chic in the same dress.

Michelle Thomas: Indeed! Accessories are one of the best ways to change up a look.

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M Street: To the woman asking about "Creative" black tie, I used to work at a theatre in Atlanta and all of our formal events were creative black tie. I used to spice my outfits up with fun sequined or feather headbands or headpieces. I actually scored a good one recently from Urban Outfitters, that was supremely fashionable, eye catching, and surprisingly formal. They also had a few feather hair combs that were great as well. My favorite thing to do was to buy a few vintage or even cheap broaches, and pin them in clusters on a simple dress. Older women I used to work with would wear bright silk scarves, and I've even seen pill box hats pinned on. Creative black tie is my favorite because there are no rules; pops of color and cheeky accessories always do the trick!

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the chatter who received an invitation with dress code "creative," think pops of color and cheeky accessories. Thanks for the input.

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Washington, D.C.: Hello, I've had a dress for years and would like to find an opportunity to wear actually wear it! The dress is a cream-colored sheath with small embroidered flowers in pastel colors. The hem hits right above the knee and the material is silk. Would it be appropriate to wear the dress to a spring/summer wedding? I'm not sure because of the white-ish color. Alternatively, could the dress be made work-appropriate by layering with a cardigan or something? I'm hedging here as well because the shininess of the fabric makes it feel too dressy for an office dominated by gray suits.

Thanks for your help!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I know how you feel, and I see no reason you can't wear the dress you mention to a spring wedding. Sounds just perfect.

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Belts as accessories: For all those looking to spice up a plain dress, J. Crew has had some great belts of late and many are way on sale at the moment. They have ribbon versions with rhinestones or beads, metallic leather in lots of colors, and even ribbon belts with flowers attached. All would look great tied around a basic dress!

Michelle Thomas: Yes, my friend just scored a gorgeous ribbon belt with a bold blue feather embellishment from J.Crew. Gorgeous!

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks for all the good questions about what to wear for what will be the biggest party in town. So good in fact that we'll be back next week to answer some more! As for the winners of this week's spoils, the Benefit gold makeup goes to the Bethesda chatter who suggested searching for Thakoon for Target dresses at branches outside the Beltway, like Frederick. And the lavender-scented home spa set goes to the M Street chatter who recommended cheeky accessories as a response to an invite that calls for creative black tie. Send in your name and address to trendspotter@washpost.com, and we'll get your goodies right out to you. See you next week.

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