ACCESSORIES FOR EVENING

Q: I have a chocolate satin evening gown with a v-shaped neck that i plan on wearing to the military ball, I need advice on what jewelry and shoes i should pick for the dress. i was thinking maybe earrings only...what do you think?

A: Beautiful dangling earrings would be great . . . and you could do a long, matinee-length necklace that plunges below the neckline of the dress. If you want to go for trend, team black jet jewelry with the brown. It's very sophisticated and elegant. Add a pretty shawl, maybe with a bit of sparkle. And have fun! 

HOW TO GO GAUCHO (OR NOT!)

Q: I wrote awhile back about coats to wear with tall boots and skirt/dress hems for my petite frame (I decided to go with an upper hip-length jacket). Thank you for the advice! While on the subject of boots, I'm intrigued by the look of tall boots with cropped, flood or capri-style pants. I'm wondering what tips you have on how to pull this off because I think I could easily fumble this look. What tops, too?

A: Depending on how petite you are, this could be a tough look to pull off. A serious cropped look with boots (as opposed to a summer cropped look with casual pants, bare legs and flip flops) is usually better left to tall, leggy women, especially if there is some volume to the pants. However, if you decide to give it a try, go for a boot that rises to meet the pant, which could be cropped just above the ankle. I would absoloutly avoid anything mid-calf. Boots in the same color -- or color value, rather than a contrast -- will kep the leg line long. Take footwear with you when trying on, and avoid flowing gauchos at all costs!

HOSE IN COLD CLIMATES

Q: I never wear hose in the summer, but where I live the climate is cold during the winter months. When wearing a skirt or dress that requires a nude leg should I wear hose?

A: Yes, you should wear hose when it's really it it's cold, but they can be fun and comfortable. Try textured, neutral hose like natural fishnets or a crocheted look. Or splurge on some really sheer, super comfortable luxury hose like Wolford and you'll receive far more enjoyment out of wearing them.