Talking Fashion: Designer Glasses, Knee Highs

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 Michelle Obama's fashion influence to how to make the runway trends work for you.

They were online Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 11 a.m. ET to answer your fashion and style questions.

A transcript follows.

Missed an earlier discussion? Catch up on past Talking Fashion chats: Discussion archive

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Good morning! Guess it's no shock that the groundhog saw his shadow, and we've got six more weeks of winter ahead, if this little weather forecaster is to be believed. Anyway, how are you coping with the cold and snow? Found any ways to stay warm and look stylish, too? We'd love to know about that, along with any of your other ideas and comments!

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Leduc, Alberta, Canada: I loved Michelle Obama's yellow outfit on inauguration day. VERY becoming, and I think would suit just about every woman. I wonder if it comes with slacks as well. I wouldn't mind an outfit like that also. A couple of them... one in burgundy color, and another in black.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'm sure that the designer of that outfit, Isabel Toledo, would be very pleased to hear you say that.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm kind of reevaluating my makeup for the spring. I would like to try some new shades of eyeshadow, but I can't get any ideas. My eyes are dark blue, my skin fair and my hair dark brown. Any suggestions? Thank you.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Several new lines have just or are about to introduce lines for spring: Nars, Shisheido and Armani, to name just a few. The best way to figiure it out is to go to a counter and test out the different shades to see what works best with your coloring. Go to a department store or a place like bluemercury, Sephora, Bellacara (in Old Town, Alex.) or M.A.C.

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Knee Highs: Hi ladies, I am looking for knee highs that don't fall down. I have bought so many different brands, but can't find the ones that work. Any suggestions? Thanks.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I have had success with Hue (sold at department stores). Are you talking about knee-highs as socks or stockings?

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Follansbee, W.V.: Hello, I spent several thousand dollars putting my granddaughter through modeling school and now modeling jobs want models 5'7 or taller (she is 5'5). Rue 21 is looking for catalogue models but want them 5'7 or 5'8. Why and what are your suggestions in getting her modeling jobs? She went to John Casablancas Modeling and Acting Career Center and is registered with the Zoom Talent Agency in Pittsburgh. She also interviewed with two other reputable agencies in Pittsburgh who told her she wasn't tall enough. Please advise.

From a perplexed grandmother who has a talented and beautiful granddaughter

Janet Bennett Kelly: I have no experience with this subject, but the question I have to ask is -- what was the modeling school's response? Have they placed models of her height before?

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Anonymous: I've never worn much makeup, except for special occasions -- I don't have the patience in the mornings, foundation makes my skin unhappy, and I can't bring myself to spend a lot of money on cosmetics. But I do want to start doing a little bit to make myself look more polished. I use translucent face powder (my face gets pink and shiny otherwise), and I absolutely love clear mascara. But I can't find an opaque nude-shade lipstick I like. Does such a thing even exist?

I can find transparent glosses that are about the color of my lips (Neutrogena makes a nice one), and they add shine and a tiny bit of color. But I'm looking for a lipstick to add some definition to the edges of the lips, and the see-through glosses don't help with that. My lips are fairly pink, but even the lighter "blush" lipsticks seem darker than an actual nude. Any ideas? Or am I going about this completely the wrong way? Thanks!

Michelle Thomas: It can sometimes be tough to find the perfect nude lipstick -- a shade that appears naturally flushed on one person can look "Dawn of the Dead" on another. Try stopping by a MAC store. The brand has an extraordinary shade selection, and offers lots of nude options. One of the store's artists can probably help you find the perfect hue.

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20814: I am (very) stylishly challenged and have decided that it's time for a complete wardrobe makeover. I'm looking for my personal "Clinton and Stacy" or Tim Gunn to help me with a new look. Are there people that do this? Thanks!

Michelle Thomas: Most upscale department stores (Lord & Taylor, Neiman Marcus, etc.) staff personal shoppers that are available to help you gratis, by appointment. Or you could hire a professional stylist. Two local options: Allison Lukes (allisonlukes.com) or Joyce Neave (bethatmom.com).

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Washington, D.C.: Hi ladies. I am newish to the area and need new glasses. Can you point me to places where I can find Prada, Chanel, Kate Spade and Coach frames? I realize there's probably not any one store that carries all of these brands. I have a car so anywhere in D.C. or the 'burbs is fine. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'm pretty sure you could find a couple of those brands -- Prada and Chanel -- at Georgetown Optical. Lenscrafters also sells Prada. My husband just got a pair of Coach frames at Colonial Opticians in Potomac. And, for Kate Spade, their store in Gtown might sell frames, but if not, they could probably tell you where you might buy them. It would be easier if you could find them all these brands in one place. Another suggestion: FourEyes. Good luck hunting.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi! I have a pair of suede boots that are covered in snow salt. Do you know a Metro-accessible place where I could get them cleaned? Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: There's a place called Fortuna Shoe Repair on Woodmont Ave. in Bethesda that's just a few blocks from the Metro. However, I'm sure there are places in Dupont Circle as well. Chatters, any recommendations?

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Personal Shopper/Stylist: I used Margaret Lilly of Lilly's Closet. She was great.

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the chatter in search of a wardrobe makeover, here's a recommendation for Lilly's Closet. And by the way, I also have heard good comments about Margaret Lilly.

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MAC cosmetics: I have used Clinique for a long time and I want a change. Is MAC a good brand for fair-skinned folks? I am very fair and have sensitive skin.

Janet Bennett Kelly: My impression of MAC is that it's more dramatic, and the colors are deeper and stronger. You may want to branch out to Trish McEvoy or Bobbi Brown or Laura Mercier.

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Eyewear: My Eye Dr (at 18th and M) carries Kate Spade and Coach, as well as a bunch of other high-end frames. The staff there is a little hit-or-miss, but it's the only place I found with that level of selection.

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the chatter looking for eyeglass frames from Kate Spade and Coach, try My Eye Dr at 18th & M.

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Re: Designer Glasses: I recently purchased a pair of Chanel frames from the Lenscrafters store in the Columbia Mall. They are the only Lenscrafters that carries all the designer brands. Also - currently, they are offering 25 percent off and if you have AAA they always offer 30 percent off.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Sounds like Lenscrafters is offering a great deal on Chanel and other designer frames.

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Opticians: As a long-time Washingtonian, I can tell you that two of the most highly regarded opticians are Apex (in Tenleytown) and Colonial (Bethesda and other locations). Both have great service and good frame selections (I was at Colonial recently and I know they had Kate Spade frames) and most importantly, do great work on lenses. My former eye doctor (long retired) recommended both and that's the only place I will go anymore.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Another comment on the search for designer lenses. Apex and Colonial are names to keep in mind. Thanks for the tip.

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Alexandria, Va.: Janet, this isn't a fashion question, but since you also recommend beauty products, I figured I'd give it a shot. I'm 38 and need to find a good wrinkle cream for around the eyes. I'm not looking to spent a ton of money and would prefer a drugstore-type brand, if there is a good one. Any thoughts? Thanks.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I like Aveeno products in general; Neutrogena is also recommended by dermatologists. Neither one is scented, which can be a problem if you have allergies. Anyone have a drugstore brand they like?

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Rochester, N.Y.: Speaking of knee-highs, I just got my Spanx Trouser Socks in the mail last night and have them on now. I'm pretty impressed with the way the "Topless" bands feel. They're comfy on. And they have not shifted so far this morning (no more of the not-very-attractive pulling them up constantly).

I just noticed on their Website that they come in reversible too, with several color combos, for $2 more.

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the chatter looking for knee-highs, here's a suggestion for Spanx Trouser Socks.

Thanks.

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Washington, D.C.: Help! I don't know where to shop for affordable clothes in the District or surrounding suburbs, aside from TJ Maxx, H&M, and Target. I'm 29 and would like to find some unique and funky clothes without breaking the bank or being stuck to major chains.

Michelle Thomas: You should scope out Rue 14 (in the old Pop space). The boutique offers plenty of cute items for under $100. I'd also suggest checking out the secondhand wares at some of the district's best consignment boutiques. Great starts: Secondi in Dupont, Second Time Around in Georgetown and Diva in Alexandria.

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Warm and Stylish: The only plus side to six more weeks of winter is that now is the best time to get deals on winter coats and shoes. I always like to buy my coats at the end of the season where I can normally get more than 50 percent off. I just got an adorable coat from Nordstrom Rack last week for $99, original price $350! It's a great time to get boots as well and with all this snow we keep getting I can use a new pair!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks for the tip. And, yes, it's a good time to get deals on winter coats. Thanks to the economic turmoil, there may be more left on the sale rack than in years before, so you'll have more choice.

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Knee Highs: Don't laugh -- I just bought a pair at Victoria's Secret that looked great and stayed on! Bonus: the bf loved them and Valentine's Day is coming up...

Janet Bennett Kelly: Here's a thumbs-up for knee highs from Vicky's Secret!

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New Makeup: For the chatter wanting to experiment with new makeup colors, I've found ELF makeup to be a great option. I ignored all the email ads they sent me for a long time, but finally decided to give them a try. Most of their products only cost $1, so I felt totally comfortable buying lots of shades/products I wouldn't normally spend the money on. Not all worked for me, but at least I didn't drop $10 on blue eyeshadow I only wore one time.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks, that's a good suggestion. Where did you find them -- are they online?

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MAC makeup: I'm also fair and sensitive-skinned, and I had a great experience at MAC. I needed subtle eye makeup for a wedding I was in, and they did it for me. Also, I use the studio MAC coverup, and it's one of the few brands of makeup that don't make my skin terribly dry. Yes, they do have the crazy acid green eye shadow, et al, but I wouldn't count them out.

Janet Bennett Kelly: This chatter says don't count MAC out, even if you want subtle.

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Washington, D.C.: If each of you could only buy one new clothing item or accessory for spring, what would it be?

Janet Bennett Kelly: My must-have for spring is a trench coat. I've been thinking about buying one for several seasons, but now I'm ready to put my money where my mouth is!

Michelle?

Michelle Thomas: Now that I've finally (FINALLY) tracked down the perfect motorcycle jacket, next on my list for spring is a fabulous pair of sky-high nude pumps to pair with all my dresses. Or maybe a great one-shouldered dress. Or a pair of round-edged sunglasses. Picking just one item is obviously tough for me!

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Stylish frames: Blink Optical in Logan Circle has a great selection of fun, high quality frames. They are pricey but the service and product are both great.

Janet Bennett Kelly: I didn't know that Blink still had stores in the area. I know they closed several. They are pricey, but I agree, they do have a large selection of high-end frames from designers you're not likely to see all over town.

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Cleveland Park: I really like "Corrective Shoe Repair" at 1502 21st St NW. They also do a wonderful job on leather boots.

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the chatter looking to repair her salt-covered boots, try Corrective Shoe Repair.

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Arlington, Va.: Hello, fashionistas. I bought a cute red cocktail dress on a whim recently -- and I'm definitely more of a black dress kind of gal, so I'm a little lost about how to accessorize. Starting with shoes: strappy black? Metallic pewter or silver? And would silver jewelry work? The red has more of a blue undertone, not yellow, if that makes a difference. It's just above knee-length, with a halter top. Help!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'd be more inclined to go with the strappy black than pewter or silver, and then I'd accessorize with gold or gold-tone jewelry. Black, gold and red make a lovely combo.

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Knee Highs again: Hello again, I am talking about stocking knee highs. Thanks.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Did you see recommendations for Victoria's Secret and Spanx?

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D.C.: Saw a lot of rain boots this morning, and one woman wearing gorgeous leather boots. What did she do to her boots to protect them from the elements, and where can I go to buy these products?

Michelle Thomas: Only she knows her secret, but I never debut leather without first dousing it in leather protective spray, which you can pick up at any shoe-repair store and probably Target or drugstores. In my experience it's worked well to prevent water stains, though I still think it's safest to don slightly darker leather (like tan, brown or black)when rain is in the forecast... I don't trust any spray to keep my pale gray boots pristine!

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Navy yard: I'd just like to second your recommendation for hitting up places like Lord & Taylor and NM for their personal shopper assistance. I was looking for a dress this past fall and a store employee spent a ton of time working with me to find the perfect dress. Without her, I never would have dared to try on the dress I eventually bought! It's probably the most "stylish" thing I own, and I've gone back several times since because I've been so pleased with the service.

Michelle Thomas: Great! Thanks for sharing your first-hand experience.

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Arlington, Va.: A Current Boutique is another great consignment shop, in Arlington. I've gotten loads of great stuff there. I mainly buy shirts/sweaters/etc., as they don't have many pants in size 14.

Michelle Thomas: I've scored some great pieces at Current, too. And I often consign there as well...

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Logan Circle: So, my questions are twofold. One is, I suspect, easy for such goddesses of shopping as yourself; the other, somewhat less so.

The first: I am looking for a wide gray belt, relatively unadorned; preference suede, then leather, then other materials. Where might I find such a thing?

The second question: cute leather pants for people who are skinny and six feet tall. Do they exist? Discuss.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hi, Logan Circle,

Believe me, finding something specific at the exact time you're looking for it is not easy for anyone! I surfed around, and I did find a gray suede belt by Ralph Lauren on the Nordstrom site for $52. As for the quest for leather pants, I haven't seen a lot of those around. Michelle?

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DC: Sorry if this is a repeat question, but where could one go to score consignment Inauguration gowns?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'd try Inga's Once is Not Enough on MacArthur Blvd. in the District.

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ELF makeup: Yes -- all online at www.eyeslipsface.com. Even better, after you order once, they start sending you all sorts of offers for free shipping, which makes it even cheaper!

Janet Bennett Kelly: For anyone who's curious about ELF makeup, here's the url for finding it.

Thanks!

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Corset Dress: Hi Ladies,

I am attending a masquerade ball and I thought a corset dress would be cute, any ideas of where I can find one? Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hmmm. Maybe Betsey Johnson or a vintage shop like Annie Creamcheese.

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Washington, D.C.: I know I've seen this question asked before, but I can't seem to find the answer now. What are some good places in the area to get a quality bra fitting done?

I'm within normal size ranges, I'm quite sure, but I can't seem to find a bra whose straps don't fall down my shoulders. I have $100 to devote to this project and was hoping to get two everyday bras for that, but if that's not realistic, I'll rethink my strategy.

Janet Bennett Kelly: A couple of suggestions: the two I swear by are in Chevy Chase and Bethesda, Maryland: Sylene's and Underwraps.

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Anonymous: Hey there. I have a purple long, flowing formal gown that I wore to an inaguaral ball with my cowboy boots (Black Tie & Boots). I have another formal event coming up and I need some "normal" shoes to wear with the gown. I was thinking emerald green, but I'm having a very difficult time finding such shoes (that aren't 3-plus inches high). What other colors might work? Where can I find fun, colorful, but yet classy shoes? Macy's seems to carry only the basic color in formal shoes.

Michelle Thomas: Emerald shoes would be gorgeous with a purple gown! You might try Nordstrom, DSW or Loehmann's, but that hue might be hard to track down in person. Expansive online shoe stores like Piperlime, Endless or Shoes.com might be a better option. And if you still can't find what you want, consider a snakeskin or pewter shoe.

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Denim: Hi, fashionistas. What are the current must-haves in jeans -- style, color, etc.? I'm afraid I haven't been keeping up. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: The current trend in jeans is loose-fitting, with rolled-up cuffs. Current Elliott is a fave among fashionistas.

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Belts: I've had great luck recently finding wide leather belts at Banana Republic. I think these were winter close-outs, so I'd look quickly to catch them. I scored a faux-croc print belt in gray and in dark brown. You can also find good deals on belts at Target; they have awesome accessories! Not all are leather, but some are. It's a great way to pick up some trendy pieces without spending a lot.

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the chatter in search of a wide belt, this chatter has had good luck at Banana Republic and at Target.

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Friendship Heights: I swear by the Village Eye Center in Potomac for all of my glasses. They've been working with me for over a dozen years now, and I have really hard to fit eyes. They carry all of the higher end frames, and have even specially made lenses for vintage frames for me over the years. Love them!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I love the Village Eye Center, too. I got a pair of Anne Et Valentin frames there, which are fab. I'm waiting for my next eye exam so I can find something equally great.

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Northern Virginia: I changed jobs recently, and my new workplace is more casual than my old. I am tired of feeling slightly overdressed every day, but have a hard time finding the "sweet spot" between faded blue jeans and nice slacks with heels. I am also on my feet more than I used to be. Do you have any suggestions for base pieces that would create a more comfortable, casual, yet still professional look? (I'm 40 and female, btw).

Michelle Thomas: Have you considered a different style of jeans? Dark-rinse, trouser-cut denim might be a good fit for your casual work place. Pair them with a blouse or sweater and cute ballet flats and you'll be comfortable but still professional. Banana Republic carries nice trouser jeans.

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Rochester, N.Y.: Spanx's socks also come in sheer, knee-high stockings. Cheaper than the solids -- they are 2 for $14...

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the knee high seeker ...

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On ELF & nude lipstick: Not the original ELF chatter, but wanted to mention that the Target near me also carries some ELF stuff. Very affordable.

Thanks for the recommendation on nude lipstick -- sounds like there's hope, I just have to try looking some new places!

Michelle Thomas: Thanks for the tip on ELF, and good luck with your lipstick hunt!

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D.C.: I'm in my twenties and still have one huge style problem: the "going out" top. I've tried Banana, Macy's, even Forever 21 -- everything is either too expensive or just looks trashy. What looks, pieces or even stores do you suggest for a great evening wear (dinner and drinks, for example) look that's age-appropriate and affordable?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'm pretty sure J. Crew would be too expensive, but did you know that they have a sibling called Madewell, which sells less expensive wares? There's one in Tysons Corner.

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Bra Fitting: The Full Cup in Alexandria, they are really great to work with.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Another suggestion for the chatter in search of a good bra fitter.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi, any suggestions for where I can find a funky metal/metallic belt? I have a very cute short tunic-type top that a friend brought back for me from Egypt, so I need something to cinch the waist in a little. I have seen some cute belts at a few Georgetown boutiques, but I don't want to spend $40 or $50 on a belt that will only match one shirt. Thanks!

Michelle Thomas: J.Crew carries skinny belts in silver, gold and rose gold for $29.50. (Though don't limit yourself to only wearing it with one piece -- a metallic belt is something you could pair with tons of tops and dresses!)

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Those J. Crew belts are on sale...: for $16.99 right now!

Michelle Thomas: Even better! Thanks!

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks for the fast-paced chat this morning/afternoon. It helped take away our winter blues! No blues for our winners, though. To the chatter who recommended ELF makeup goes the goodie of Essie All Natural Hand Wash and Treatment and the Pix 20-eyeshadow palette goes to the chatter from Rochester who suggested Spanx knee highs. Send your name and address to us at trendspotter@washpost.com, and we'll get those right out to you. See you back here same time in two weeks -- Feb. 17.

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