Q - I never know what to wear this time of year when it's technically 'spring' but the weather is still chilly and changes from one day to the next.  I don't want to wear winter clothes but I feel silly wearing white pants and other items from my spring wardrobe.  Any suggestions?

A - Welcome to transition!  This time of year in fashion is confusing for many but it doesn't have to be.  Layering is a great way to handle the weather changes and there is no reason why you can't mix your winter and spring wardrobe pieces together.  For example, you can wear a thin wool sweater with a pair of lightweight pants.  Mixing fabrics is very acceptable, and encouraged, as long as you don't wear something too heavy or thick back to a lighter, flimsy fabric. Also, there are no longer  rules about white pants or open-toe shoes.  When the weather is warm and springlike, by all means wear whatever makes you feel good when you get dressed in the morning.

 

Q - Although I love this time of year with holiday parties and after work celebrations, I never know what is appropriate attire.  I want to look sexy, not suity and stuffy, but I don't want too much showing since many of  these events are still business related.

A - There are so many dresses to choose from that can be worn under a blazer or cardigan during the work day,  that can be all the things you want it to be in the evening.  Your basic sheath dress that seems plain in daytime can be paired up with a fabulous pair of shoes, then topped off with pearls or a fun holiday pin.  Leave the blazer in your office or check it with your coat in the restaurant.

A dress pant can also be part of a holiday outfit when worn back to a silk blouse or shell.  Many designers such as Elie Tahari and Tory Burch make beautiful tops out of dressy fabrics such as silk or chiffon, adorned with sequence and other embellishments that take a basic pair of pants to the party level.

Lorriane Russo, President, The Wardrobe Wizard
lorraineshop@yahoo.com