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

They were online Tuesday, March 10, 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: So, the clocks have moved ahead. Are you moving forward in your wardrobe choices for spring? Michele and I are here to help as well as hear your suggestions. And, as ever, for the best ideas, there are giveaways: a Ms. Manicure set and an eyeshadow palette from MAC's Hello Kitty collection. Ready to talk fashion?

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Washington, D.C.: I want a lightweight, short coat for the transitional days into spring -- and I'd love to get it in a bright color! Which stores are my best bet? And what are the great colors for spring other than mimosa? I don't think I can pull that off in a major piece. Thank you!

Michelle Thomas: You won't struggle to track down such a piece this spring -- I've been seeing bright, cheery trench coats at tons of stores. A sampling: Old Navy has lightweight, short coats in punchy tomato red and lemon yellow (and a gorgeous longer version in magenta); Banana Republic has one in orange; Club Monaco has a vivid watermelon; J Crew has a ruffle-collared one in a lighter cantaloupe. As for colors, melon or citrusy hues like tangerine are a good bet and perhaps a bit easier to wear than mimosa.

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Washington, D.C.: Do you have any remedies for pilling? It's a pet peeve that even more expensive clothes seem to have fabric that pills almost immediately. I would love to hear ideas about how to improve the pilled areas on sweaters, pants, etc and also what fabrics to look for to avoid this problem. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Omigod, I hate pilling, and I agree, that even expensive clothes can have that problem. It bothers me most on wool and cotton sweaters, though, and what I've found is a pretty good solution is something called a Sweater Stone. Go to the Web site SweaterStone.com, which is currently offering to send you one for $4.99.

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Washington, D.C.: I am starting to get into vintage pieces. Where are the best vintage and consignment shops in this area?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'm a big fan of Annie Creamcheese in Georgetown -- they have a big selection. Like anything else, though, you have to keep going back because merchandise changes a lot, and you have to hit it right. Capitol Hill's Remix is also a good bet, as is Nana on U Street.

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Maryland: Okay just a comment. I'm 43 and I think pretty hip and stylish. The other day I went to Talbots with my mom and they really had some cute things. I was tempted to buy but I just couldn't get past the fact that it's Talbots, my mom's store. Is it me? Does anyone else have label fear?

Janet Bennett Kelly: As the Eagles say in one of their tunes, "Get over it." Talbots, Shmalbots, it doesn't matter where you find something(s) if you like the look and it suits your style. I found a great sweater last fall at conservative old Brooks Brothers. You'll be passing up some good buys if you can't see beyond the label to the product.

Michelle Thomas: I understand what you're saying -- but I agree with Janet. Conquer your fear! Fab finds sometimes come from unexpected sources. And as a bonus, you'll end up with a more well-rounded, less ubiquitous look. Last spring the Sunday Source ran a story about getting work duds from surprising stores -- and we found some adorable, office-appropriate pieces at Bebe and Wet Seal, of all places.

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Arlington, Va.: I need to upgrade my suits, either skirt or pants suits. What kind of fabric would be classic and stylish? The ones I have now are all polyester. Is that tacky?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hi, Arlington,

If you're talking about suits for spring/summer weather, I recommend cotton instead of polyester. It breathes better and will keep you cooler during the summer here. Although I'm probably in the minority, I also like linen. But you have to be able to live with wrinkles or else be a slave to your ironing board.

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Spring: So, now that spring is almost here, when is it appropriate to pull out the white pants, open-toed shoes, etc?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Practically speaking, I'd say that depends on the weather. I'm also a bit of a traditionalist when it comes to wearing white. I wait until May.

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Boyds, Md.: I feel like I am always wearing the same tanks and camis under sweaters (especially cardis) and jackets. Do you have some good ideas about something fresh and different for the spring that looks a little more pulled together?

Janet Bennett Kelly: To freshen up the look, try a blouse with a ruffle or a bow for a little romance.

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Over 50: What is your advice to older women regarding looking fashionable; but not looking silly? I think keeping your wardrobe up to date keeps you youthful looking, but I try to be careful in the styles I pick.

What do you think is the biggest fashion mistake women over 50 make? (And before all the older women write in to say we don't look over 50, yes we do. This is what 50+ looks like now.)

Janet Bennett Kelly: I think it's wearing something way above the knee, whether it's a mini dress, skirt or too-short shorts. In fact this is a mistake that many women make, no matter what their age.

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PG, Maryland: Hi! Do you know where I can find short-sleeve, low-cut, fitted, non-rayon shirts in a variety of basic neutrals? I need to wear something under my suit jackets, but don't like camisoles, because I like to protect my jackets from deodorant. Thanks!

Michelle Thomas: Victoria's Secret has a cashmere/modal scoopneck tee in eight relatively neutral shades. It could work as a nice base layer under your jackets.

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to the Talbot's fearful: A comment for a comment -- to Talbot's and others who fear labels: I am 33 and my mom and I, too, went to Talbot's and I felt the same. But she insisted and I DID IT. I conquered my fear and got some great finds and, many compliments later, I feel great.

Michelle Thomas: This reader says: just do it!

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D.C.: I am trying to watch my spending so I want to buy only key pieces this spring/summer. What is the "hot color" to have? Or one other trendy item to buy?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Pink is getting a lot of promo this season. So, if it's your color ... One item that's showing up all over the stores is a cardigan -- not trendy but very practical. You can find them everywhere -- Club Monaco, the Gap, J. Crew, etc.

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Cosmetics: Good morning, Janet and Michelle. I have a foundation question. I've been a MAC devotee for some time, but as my skin starts to show more signs of aging, I'm not sure that line is my best bet anymore for foundation. (I'm 35 and just starting to see fine lines, enlarged pores, etc.) Do you or the chatters have suggestions for foundations that do a good job of minimizing those problems? SPF is a bonus. I'm overwhelmed by options!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I think you need to do some experimenting at cosmetics counters before you buy. A good place to sample is Sephora; also Bluemercury and Bellacara. My personal preference is Laura Mercier because it's light.

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M Street: Hi ladies! Now that the sun is finally starting to peek out, I know I need to change my moisturizer (should have done it before). I'm in my early 20s and currently don't use one with an SPF so I'm starting from square one. Can you recommend a reasonably priced product that isn't too greasy?

Michelle Thomas: I love Olay's Complete with SPF -- it's a basic, lightweight moisturizer that's perfect for everyday use.

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Washington, D.C.: Where can I find a reasonably-priced (under $100 dollars) pair of white linen-type material pants that kind of hug around the butt area but are otherwise, kind of straight and wide-legged? I looked around last summer but had no luck. Any suggestions? :)

Janet Bennett Kelly: Have you tried Martin + Osa -- there's a store in Tysons Corner. I recently saw a couple of pairs of that brand in a Loehmann's in Florida. Another possibility is one of the local South Moon Under stores.

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Bel Air, Md.: Can you recommend sources for chic petite clothes? I am a 5'0" 50-year-old who has a terrible time finding clothes (size 2-4). I'm looking for work clothes as well as dress casual. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Not to sound like a broken record, but I saw lots of petite sizes in the Loehmann's at Chevy Chase. I suspect the same would be the case for Filene's Basement. On the upper end of the scale, Saks Fifth Avenue also caries lots of petites.

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D.C.: Hi, I just bought a knee-length silk dress in a kind of bright salmon color (prettier than it sounds!) to wear to a couple of outdoor weddings this spring and summer. What kind/color of shoes would you wear with this? Ivory, maybe? Or gold?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I'd go with a nude color, and since nude is very in this season, you shouldn't have any trouble. I recently saw a pair of nude leather slingbacks with a pretty jeweled toe at The Little Shoe Box in Bethesda. They were by Emma Hope, and they were adorable.

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Foggy Bottom: For the person looking for short-sleeve Ts to wear under suits, Ann Taylor Loft has some cute shirts in a variety of colors with a low scoop neck, cotton with some stretch. They come in petite too. Last week they were on sale 2 for $30, I don't know if they still are. I stocked up on some to replace my washed out shirts to wear under cardigans!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks, FB. Get thee to Ann Taylor Loft quickly for buys on T-shirts.

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Foundation suggestion: For the 35-year-old in search of new foundation: try Bare Minerals. My sister and I convinced our mom (in her early 60s) to try it, and she looks years younger because the powder foundation doesn't settle into her lines and small wrinkles. I couldn't believe the difference -- I thought she had changed her skincare products or been getting weekly facials or something.

Janet Bennett Kelly: For the chatter ISO a new foundation, this chatter suggests Bare Minerals!

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Olney, Md.: This is a hard time of year; it's cold in the mornings so I have to wear a coat, but I end up carrying it home in the afternoon. I want to wear my spring clothes, but it's too cold in the mornings to wear them. I want to buy bright spring/summer colors, but it's still cold. I want to buy the sweaters that are on sale, but it's warm in the evenings. Too warm for boots and socks and too cold for pumps or open-toed shoes. Any suggestions on how to get over the hump?

Michelle Thomas: Love the return of warmer temps, but it's tough, fashion-wise! My best advice: Layer, layer, layer. Try tempering those bright spring shades with restrained neutrals and blacks, and don't shy away from blending seasonal items -- as long as you maintain balance (top a lightweight spring dress with a chunkier winter sweater, for instance).

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Bethesda, Md.: To the shopper looking for key pieces, I'm in the same boat. One of the main things I wanted was a new handbag for work that was different from the black leather one I used all fall and winter. Target has a great new collection by Hayden Harnett. I got a flower printed canvas bag for about $45 that was exactly what I was looking for. I was originally looking for a lighter-colored leather but of course those were more expensive. The canvas is more fun anyway (and washable!).

Janet Bennett Kelly: New key pieces -- try the new Hayden Harnett collection at Target. Thanks for the tip.

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Bright spring jackets: Believe it or not, Eddie Bauer of all places had some really cute spring coats in some bright colors and a pattern or two. I got the bright pink-orange one for $89.

Michelle Thomas: I think this suggestion falls under both a.) where to find bright spring coats and b.) overcoming label fear. Thanks for the tip!

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Washington, D.C.: I'm about to do some spring cleaning in my closet. I have loads of clothes I do not wear anymore -- from the late 90s and early 00s. How do I know which pieces are classic and that I'll regret throwing out five years later?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Hi, D.C.,

Spring cleaning is such a good idea right about now. If i were you, I'd keep the basics -- pencil skirts, cardigans, straight-leg pants. Another rule of thumb is you haven't worn something in a year or two, it's time to give it the heave-ho.

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Alexandria, Va.: I bought a lightweight, crisp cotton wrap dress (short sleeves, with a collar) in navy blue. I'm totally stumped on what kind/color shoes to wear with it. Any ideas?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Sky's practically the limit with navy blue. Give the navy some oomph with a blast of color or keep it simple with something in nude patent.

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ISO jeans: Hi, ladies. I need a couple pairs of high-end jeans and was wondering if the ones they have at Filene's Basement are seconds or defective or made specifically for stores like that. Or are they identical to the ones found in department stores? Or, as I suspect, do they vary? Thanks very much!

Michelle Thomas: Filene's Basement primarily gets its stock from vendors who have leftover, unsold merchandise. So it may be a season or two old, but it's typically neither damaged nor made for the store. I have occasionally spotted "irregular" tights at Filene's, but they are always clearly marked as such.

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Capitol Hill: On the moisturizer question, I, too, am in my 20s and tried a Neutrogena Healthy Defense moisturizer sample from a hotel. (I know huge gimmick, but it worked!) It has a 30 SPF but doesn't feel too heavy or greasy and I have noticed a difference in my skin. Happy hunting!

Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks, Capitol Hill. Good suggestion and one dermatologists like as well for the good sun protection factor.

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Arlington, Va.: I second the Bare Minerals suggestion. I'm 34-years-old with sensitive acne-prone combination skin (lucky me). Bare Minerals is the only foundation I have found -- after 15+ years of searching -- that has provided the coverage I need without irritating my skin. (And no, I have no affiliation with the company -- I wish I did -- it's not cheap!)

Janet Bennett Kelly: Another yea for the Bare Minerals foundation suggestion.

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Reston, Va.: I recently changed my hair color, going a couple shades darker, and now my makeup (particularly my eye stuff) doesn't seem to look right. Any suggestions for how to make green eyes stand out? This would be for everyday wear, so it can't be too outrageous. Thanks!

Janet Bennett Kelly: I find that with green eyes, a dark violet pencil eyeliner can really make them pop. Make sure you line close to your lashes.

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Arlington, Va.: I have a bright blue, halter, Grecian-inspired dress that has a white geometric pattern on it. The dress hits just above the knee. Can I wear black gladiator heels with it (just got some super cheap from Target) or do I need to wear brown/tan shoes?

Michelle Thomas: It's hard to say without seeing either piece, but I would probably pair your dress with light brown, gold or bronze sandals. Black gladiators might be too heavy.

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Finally went over to the darkside: And got my hair highlighted/gray covered. I have always felt comfortable with the amount I tipped for a haircut, but how much for all that time and effort of a color job?

Janet Bennett Kelly: An average tip would be 15 percent of the cost of the color/highlighting. If your colorist did an outstanding job, then you might want to give a little more.

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Washington, D.C.: How do I know if I'm getting a good fit in my jeans? I'm 25, tall, and slender yet sometimes I feel like I'm heading towards "mom jeans" territory just because I don't like my jeans too tight. Any advice on this?

Janet Bennett Kelly: It's all about how your rear end looks, in my humble opinion, in the jeans. And, if you don't like your jeans too tight, you're in luck this season because "boyfriend" or slouchy jeans are very much in style.

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Pittsburgh, Pa.: I seem to be stuck in a bit of a work wardrobe rut -- slacks and short- or long-sleeved sweaters year round with flats (I commute by bus). I work for the government in a business casual environment and wear suits for dressier occasions. Any suggestions on new trends I can use to punch up the routine without having to toss all the old stuff I have?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Pittsburgh, accessorize! Statement jewelry -- cuffs, necklaces, big earrings -- are the easiest way to get out of a rut.

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Arlington, Va.: When should ladies stop wearing dark opaque tights with dresses/skirts (or should we have already put them away for the season?)? What is a good alternative for those of us who have bare legs that aren't quite ready to be exposed to the cold cruel world? Thanks in advance.

Michelle Thomas: I'm still wearing mine -- and will continue to do so until it's warm enough to abandon them!

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Green eyes: For the person that just changed hair color, check out Almay's line of eye shadows, liners, and mascaras that are designed for specific eye colors.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Good idea. For the green-eyed girl looking to make her eyes stand out, give Almay a try.

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Washington, D.C.: I own a disproportionate number of fall colors. Is there a little something I can add or wear with them to springify myself without having to put them away in the back of the closet and buy a bunch of new clothes?

Janet Bennett Kelly: Add a print cardigan or one in a springtime color -- coral, pink, yellow. Add some jewelry in turquoise or pink or with pearls.

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Alex., VA: I love the maxi dress trend, but have noticed that they all seem to be very low cut. Do you know of a place that has a maxi dress with a higher neckline?

Michelle Thomas: Shopbop.com has a jersey maxi dress from Rachel Pally that features a high halter neck. And it's on sale!

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For the person with the navy wrap dress: Target currently has some very cute sandals that have some navy in them. I saw a pair of wedges that were white, pink, and navy, and a pair of flats that were similar, but with green, white, and navy. I was thinking I needed to get a navy dress just so I had reason to get the shoes!

Janet Bennett Kelly: This chatter recommends wedges from Target to complement the navy dress of the chatter who was looking for shoes. Check it out.

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Washington, D.C.: For the poster with the question about green eyes, try reddish shades, too, like burgundy, reddish-browns, or maybe even a coppery shade. The contrast can really make your eyes pop.

For the poster with the question about the salmon dress, you might also try a metallic pewter or gunmetal sandal if you want something other than nude. I've seen a fair number of them around, and just bought a pair of Enzo Angiolini flat sandals from Nordstrom, and they go really well with those dusty/warm pinks. Bonus: they only suggest the gladiator look, and won't be out of style in a year!

Michelle Thomas: Thanks!

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Silver Spring, Md.: re: Neutrogena Healthy Defense. I like it too, but stay away from the tinted variety. It stains and is difficult to wash out.

Sometimes I look at all the catalogs I've gotten and then go shop my closet. A lot of times I'll see things that look attractive and later figure out that I have the parts to that already. If the colors are right and the style you own isn't too extreme, you can put together good looking outfits without buying anything.

Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks, Silver Spring, for the advice on Neutrogena and also for the tip on how to save money by shopping your closet for the same things you find in your closet.

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Annapolis, Md.: Here's one of those questions that straddle the fashion and etiquette worlds. I love fragrance, and also try to be very careful not to wear so much that colleagues (or passers-by on the street!) threaten an intervention because of being totally overwhelmed. My favorites tend to be orientals and florals -- Shalimar, Joy, Eau d'Illuminee -- and my efforts to find a more subtle fragrance for the summer continually fail, because the ones regularly recommended smell awful to me. So, if I'm hyper-aware of putting barely any on as the temp starts to rise (yay!), can I still wear these big, over the top fragrances, or should I avoid everything and wait until fall to indulge gently again?

Janet Bennett Kelly: I don't think you have to wait 'til fall. Are there lighter versions of the fragrances you like? Colognes instead of full-fledged perfume, for example?

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Rockville, Md.: RE: Talbot's phobia. I believe that a new CEO was hired from Ann Taylor or someplace trendy to revamp Talbot's stodgy rep.

Michelle Thomas: Ah, seems you are correct -- Talbots hired the former president of Liz Claiborne in August 2007. So maybe that's why there's been an uptick in cute clothes from the store!

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Janet Bennett Kelly: Thanks, everyone. Interesting and fast-paced discussion. We love it! For our winners today, the chatter who recommended the Hayden Harnett bag from Target gets the Ms. Manicure set and MAC's Hello Kitty eyeshadow palette goes to our chatter who suggested reddish or coppery shades of shadow to make green eyes pop and a metallic shoe to go with a salmon dress. Write to us at trendspotter@washpost.com, and we'll send those goodies right out to you. 'Til next time -- mark your calendars for March 24.

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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.