| The current article will bring the total installments of this column to 18, and I have a confession to make. I was at a total loss of what to write about, and despite my constant reminders for everyone to send suggestions, all I have received so far are compliments. I am not complaining about that though, and am glad that every one of you who wrote appreciates my topic choices each week. But alas, I seemed to have hit a slight dry spell, and with no help from e-mails I had to find other methods of getting something to write about. Now, my mother always taught me not to sit around waiting for someone else to do things for me, so to make Mom proud, this week I took ‘Fashion 2 the Street,’ well, to the street. I figured you all had to have something that you wanted to know; something I hadn’t talked about yet, that you didn’t feel you could e-mail me about. So I asked around, and lo and behold the questions were numerous. In fact, there were so many that I shall have to stretch this concept across two weeks. Let me tell you also that I did not discriminate. I took them all down, and those I could not answer myself I went and researched. The questions ranged from fashion tips to little known facts. So, here are the questions you would ask if you could speak to a fashion expert.
What is the best way to wear an ankle boot? What clothing looks best with them?
Ankle boots are the new “hotness” in shoe-wear for ladies these days, so this question was right on point. I personally think you really can’t go very wrong with any garment choice. They work well with most pants, skirts, or dresses. For me personally, I would go for short pants, short skirts, or a mini-dress. Ankle boots accentuate the leg, so you may as well show them off. In researching, I found that many experts suggest you tuck a long skinny pant leg into the top of an ankle boot, but I would not. I would instead just let it sit on top of the boot, even if it scrunches a little. I was never a fan of tucking pants into shoes, however this method is very much in, and if you think it’s hot, go for it.
It’s wedding season and I have quite a few to attend, but I am on a slim budget. What would you suggest?
I think you are best off buying dresses for each wedding that you don’t mind spending the money on. By that I mean spend it on outfits that aren’t just a one-time wear, so you get your money’s worth. Also, I think you can get away with going less formal. Instead, buy a more casual outfit and dress it up with shoes, an elegant clutch, and fancier accessories. Also, unless specifically asked by the bridal party, do not wear white.
I need to look good in the office, but have some belly fat I want to hide. What should I buy?
This is not an uncommon problem. Since you say you work in an office, I think you would be safe buying tailored blazers and vests. Ensure that they fit, but aren’t tight on your midsection. Tailoring has a way of hiding imperfections like belly fat and love handles. It will also help to invest in a comfortable body-shaping undergarment for added support.
What do you suggest as bridal shower chic?
Bridal showers are always fun and games amongst the girls. I suggest going for comfort as the most important thing. Select comfy shoes and looser clothing, but find a balance between casual and elegant, as most bridal showers end up at a bar or club later in the evening. I think this occasion calls for the ever faithful, super cute LBD. To the rescue again, this little black dress can be casual and then dressed up if necessary. Another option is a dark, skinny jean and a bright or floral top.
I am a skinny woman, what can I wear to help give me some shape?
The best thing I can think of to tell you is try on some looser fitting dresses and tops, then pair them with a belt around your waist. This will create an hourglass silhouette quickly and easily. Shop for items that hug your upper body and then flare out on the bottom half, which also has the same effect.
I hate business suits and pencil skirts. How can I be comfortable at work and not look too casual during the week?
Go for a dark or black jean with a stretch, for more comfort. A casual top or blouse can be worn with a loose blazer for an easy wear, with a businesslike look. Also, many brands of work trousers are made with a mechanical stretch material. These offer a softer feel and fit, but still appear to be classic workpants.
I have love handles, which I desperately want to hide. If I wear a waist belt, can I wear it up high on my body?
Up under your breasts is way too high for a waist belt. As the name suggests, you should settle the belt on your waist – which, to clarify, is the narrowest point between the bust and the hips, not where you wear your pants. The key to a waist belt is not to make your body look slimmer, but to enhance an hourglass shape.
As an old woman I hate these low-rise or hipster, “skinny” pants that are in style. Am I stuck with wearing old-fashioned jeans?
Fortunately, the world of denim is so vast that there are options for you. I do agree that low waist pants seem a little too youthful for the more mature woman. Instead try a high waist pant, which has a straight leg or boot-cut. There are even a few companies out there who make denim specifically for the old woman. These can be purchased with built-in body-shapers for the lady who has added a pound here or there over the years, and requires a little help in concealing it.
Can you tell me what patent leather is? Also, is sheepskin leather?
Patent leather is credited to American inventor Seth Boyden, who recreated the old European method of leather manufacturing processing. It is in fact created when leather is treated with varnish or lacquer during the final stages of its tanning. This makes stiff, shiny leather. It is traditionally used in making dress shoes and purses.
Sheepskin is like leather, in that it is tanned animal hide. It, however, is not classified as leather because of being tanned with the sheep’s wool still intact, in the manner of a pelt.
Who created Nike Air Force Ones?
That acclaim goes to Bruce Kilgore, then-Director of Research and Development at Nike, who came up with the design for this classic sneaker in 1982. He named it after the U.S. presidential airplane. My husband, for one, is deeply thankful to Mr. Kilgore.
Who decided what size women’s dresses should be? And am I the only person who they don’t seem to fit?
Women’s clothing sizes, including pants and dress sizes, were standardized in 1958 with Commercial Standards (CS) 215-58. It was based on a national and international study on women’s body measurements at the time. You are far from the only one they do not fit. Not only have body shapes changed drastically since 1958, but we also need to remember that because of racial biases at the time, ethnic bodies were probably not taken into consideration in the study. So our shapes, which always tend to be curvier, will not fit into the standard chart. I, for one, think its time they instituted a new standard.
What is a broomstick skirt?
These are flowing and sometimes tiered skirts that flare out almost like the bristle of a broom. They get their name, however, due to the fact that in order to get their crinkled appearance they are twisted around a broomstick when wet and left there to dry. These skirts are also commonly referred to as gypsy, peasant, Indian, or hippie skirts.
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