Style Dilemma: The Black Maxi Skirt

Oh, about 2 years ago, long time reader, follower, twitter and blogger friend, and musician Scarlet emailed for help. She’s a clarinetist in a regional orchestra, and plays in formal concerts. She needed (needs? Scarlet? Am I too late?) a long black skirt. It’s that musicians’ uniform.

When she asked me, I had immediate images of Sharon Stone’s now (in)famous high-low Oscars ensemble. I was also convinced that Isaac Mizrahi had done a ballgown + buttondown look that would be perfect.

I had ballgown in my head. I searched and searched, to no avail. I couldn’t find the images I was looking for. What I did find, though, was that it was most likely a Carolina Herrerra look I remembered (who is, after all, the One with The Shirts). Sorry Isaac.

So time passes (crap. this might even have been before Bean No. 2), and the blog post never materialized. I checked with Scarlet, and she hadn’t resolved her Black Skirt Issue. She’d essentially resigned herself to buying a pattern and making one herself. There were no Long Skirts to be found.

But then, oila! the maxi skirt was on every page of every magazine, much to my confusion and chagrin. I still (true confessions) am not entirely sure what to do with them. I see others, but I Don’t Get It. I’ve tweeted the same. Lord (and the twitterverse) knows.

So it looks like it’ll take Scarlet’s style dilemma to get me over the hump. I scoured Pinterest and blogs, checked online catalogs and those “look book” things people keep talking about. And here’s what I found: a Black Maxi Skirt, as we’ll now call it, is probably a wardrobe item that is much more versatile than you’d think. I almost couldn't stop making combinations from what I found.

Thomas Pink Jessie shirt for ruffles made by one of the ultimate shirtmakers, or go local with The Signature Shirt with Leather Trim (I'm also in love with the blue and black one) from The Shirt by Rochelle Behrens

Patterson J. Kincaid maxi skirt with pleats instead of fullness, for a little more forgiving, and probably cooler (stage lights, people) take on the ballgown Scarlet and I had in our heads

Carolina Herrera inspiration via (nope, not planned that she got the FGI Superstar award last night!)

Mossimo Ponte Blazer in their version of oxblood, The Color right now (or, you know, the Chanel-inspired bouclé one I might have bought last night and might be wearing today)

Mossimo Long & Lean tank (best. tank. ever.)

Scully Cantina 3 Tiered Skirt, dialing it down from the inspirational image, with tiers for the fullness, but cotton for the ease

Blogger inspiration via

Old Navy Rock the Vote T (thank you, Liz, for the inspiration!), because, well, it's nearly November 6th and I live in Washington OR use that tank (told you it was the best) with a splash of color from Stella & Dot's Bryant Park scarf take on "animal print"

Adrianna Papell taffeta skirt, the most formal of the skirts on here, which I used very purposefully in this ensemble. Yes, it has The Bow, but I also personally love the juxtaposition of super casual with formal

Blogger inspiration via

Banana Republic Essential turtleneck OR softer, more colorful with Old Navy's Softest cowl-neck sweater

ModCloth's Cute to the Core skirt, in layers of filmy sheer, will balance any weight you might get from a Big Sweater.

Or you could go sleeker on the skirt and bigger on the sweater, for a full-on wintery look.

Sharon Stone inspiration via

Folks, let's just say that this is only the beginning of all of the looks I wanted to build with what is clearly (yes, I'm now a maxi skirt convert, only 2 years too late) a solid wardrobe staple. For me, and I'd venture to say that for most professional women out there, I'd say the maxi needs to be relegated to non-office activities, but I can absolutely see it on a playground, at a happy hour, a brunch, or, you know, an orchestra concert. Then, of course, you can take it and dress that baby up (sequined top, anyone?) for an elegant dinner or show. Seriously, endless possibilities.

Check out other pieces I considered here, but didn't make the ensembles in this post, on my Blog Possibilities board. Who knows? You might even get a preview of upcoming posts!

Style Dilemma: "Style Me," She Says

31204ever has a weeks-old baby boy, and after hanging out extra long with Mommy, he finally arrived (on his on time), and he's now quite vocal, this child. She pleads:

One of these days The Boy is going to stop screaming long enough for us to get to the mall and buy Mommy some new clothes. I haven't bought anything but maternity since last June (except one pair of shoes) and it's about to kill me.

So given that I've got five more months of warm-to-hot weather maternity leave ahead of me, what pieces should I buy that don't scream "I spend all day cleaning up poo and spitup while a little one wails inconsolably in my ear?"

I have a few pairs of capris that I'm hoping I can fit into still, as well as a few pairs of bermuda-length shorts (are those still in at all?). Plus the usual array of t-shirts and tops.

Would like a few tops but mostly focusing on the bottoms. Don't want to spend a ton of money, either. You know where I shop: Ann Taylor Loft, Target, Old Navy, Gap, NY&Co.

Any ideas?

Dear 31204ever:

Yup, absolutely. First thing: get thee to Target. It's one-stop shopping, and you won't feel guilty about buying something that you might wear for 2 months because your body's changing.

Second thing: buy a pair of cargo pants. Unfortunately, the fabulous pair I found at The Gap last summer aren't there anymore (Murphy's out to get us), but there's a decent pair at Target - choice of colors. I love my Army green version - goes with everything - but you might want to cheer yourself with a fun tangerine pair. Or if you're up for it, try online at one of the outdoor stores - you'll get a really functional pair - lots of pockets for binkies, bottles, and your cell phone.

#3: I'm not a huge personal fan of capris, though they're cool and functional. But that's just me. As an alternative, I'd steer towards skirts. They're breezy, can be dressed up or down, and you certainly won't project "I just changed a poopy diaper." A-line, denim, or, if you're feeling flirty, try a ruffly one. Isaac's eyelet skirt looks dressy, but would be cool, and with a simple top, you'l be the chicest mommy on the block. Pair with a super easy t-shirt - my favorite last summer (much to H's chagrin, apparently) was a pretty cap sleeved scoop necked version. Look for details or unique colors like the Mossimo "grenadine" one here (and at $8.99, hello!) or the Go International pleated tank (pleats are ever so flattering) to make them non-boring.

These won't work? Give me more, and I'll keep looking!

Style Dilemma: ISO Hot Top

Carebear wrote me in search of a top for Friday night (ok, so I'm a little slow on the uptake - eek! sorry!). She's in a friend's wedding ('tis the season), and feels like she wants to wear something a leeeeeetle bit sexy to the rehearsal dinner. The trick? Make it appropriate, as well. Here's what she gave me as her requirements - for no more than $40.

1 - something that is functional (ie can be worn more than once)

2 - something not too expensive

3 - something sexy but not too slutty

4 - not sure about sleeveless but maybe

Dear Carebear:

Hmmm...this is a tough one - part of it depends on what "sexy" means to you - or for whom you want it to be sexy (as we all know, the male/female versions of "sexy" can vary greatly). My thoughts:

A wrap or faux wrap top with a nice deep V-neck could work - waist accentuating and, uh, asset displaying - and depending on how much you want on display, you can pin a sparkly broach at the V or not. At 20 bucks on sale, the NY & Company version at right fits the requirements. Change out the black baubles in the pic for one big brightly colored accessory (a cuff, big beads, a scarf), and you're smokin'.

To do the sweet version of sexy (again, just depends on your perspective), try Isaac's tuxedo-inspired button down. It would be lovely and appropriate, but the cinched waist and button down can definitely be sexy. You'd have to be careful to not head to the dowdy end, but sexy shoes would be your friend here - show some red tootsies or a stiletto and pointy toe, and it should work.

And going with the trend here, a belted button down - again, paired with the right outspoken accesories - NY & Company's white version brings to mind the "boyfriend shirt" without looking like you've raided his closet. You could even ditch the white belt that comes with it for a colorful scarf or wider belt for a more daring (and waist-cinching) look.

Let us know what you pick and how you style it!

Style Dilemma: Bachelorette Cute - But Not "Too"

BabySis called me yesterday evening in a panic. So much so that when I didn't return her call right away, I found out she called Mom. Clearly, she was desperate (we love you Mom, but...).

She's attending a bridal shower and bachelorette party for a good friend (actually, one of the 'Maids from her wedding) this weekend, and needed some help.

First question was what to do about the bachelorette attire. The girls are going in a "uniform," with some of them buying a blinged out pink tank for the heck of it. But BabySis is, well, curvy, and bling on a ribbed tank looks, well, let's just say she's opting for an old skool white tank and either a denim mini or jeans (they're headed out in Annapolis, Maryland). So if she goes with the mini, she wonders, what to do about shoes? What won't look hoochy (in a bad way - because some hooch is good sometimes)?

Second question is what shoes to wear with a navy blousy top and pale silver suit shorts (not metallic). Her instinct was brown pumps, but in that frantic call to mom, mom said "not brown." She was all turned around, color-wise.

So what to do?

Funny, when someone calls with a question about what to wear, I tend to get pictures in my head from what they're describing. And when she told me about her denim mini, I pictured cream colored ankle-tie espadrilles (like the DKNY sandal version, top left). A little beachy, pretty, and girly, all at the same time. Colored ones would work, too. But she doesn't want to spend any money and buy new shoes. "I want to work with what I have," she says.

Then flats. Metallic flats, something like MIA's woven ballet Gabriella (2nd, at left). She has those, I know. But apparently, they're not in such good shape.

Her first thought was black patent pumps. "Nope," I say. "Hoochy. In a bad way." In fact, any pumps with a mini is pushing it - unless you have a big, blousy top - which she doesn't, for this event. So those are out.

"What about wedges?" I ask. Height (as if she needs any - she beats 5'9"), but not hoochy, and the wedge makes for easy walking on the cobblestoned streets of Annapolis. Score. She has those - in fact, the Amanda (Isaac Mizrahi for Target) pair I happened to recommend to BlueSuitGirl for Cairo. That should work. She sent confirmation this morning that she's packed those, along with some fun earrings and necklaces from which to choose on Saturday night. Perfect. I'm always a fan of a simple, neutral outfit with a big splash of color jewelry.

Next, on to the shower. A blousy (banded short sleeves and waist) scoop neck top in navy (H&M*) and pale silver suit shorts. My first response: brown pumps. Might sound a little odd with the silver, but like I've said before, brown can either be treated as a color or as a neutral. In this case, it's a strong neutral. A nude shoe would be to pale, and black too blah. So brown pumps or even pick a color - almost any color, other than gold (and even that could be done, if careful). Yellow, green, or red (classic, but stately), especially. And seeing as the only red shoes she has are her wedding shoes (yeah, BabySis wore red d'orsay pumps under her gown - a brilliant touch, in my book), she's opting for brown. My pick, if she didn't already have some? KORS by Michael Kors - grounding to the blousy top, and flirty enough to not look staid with the suit shorts.

BabySis, if you get a chance, forward a pic or two from the weekend and let us know how the style choices ended up. We'd love to see!

*Dear H&M: Please put pictures of your inventory on your website. I would love to look at the pretty things before I go buy them.

**Thanks to zappos.com for all of the pics! My favorite online shoe site, by far.

Style Dilemma: Travel Shoes and Bag

BlueSuitGirl pleads for help:

I need HELP in a big way!!!!!! I need comfortable shoes-- for strutting the streets of Cairo, that aren't too ugly and I would love it if they could be a just a tad bit stylish. I've found some really comfortable, cute flip flops, but I want something a little nicer than that. I know I am asking for a lot....and I have searched everywhere. Oh yeah, I'm leaving in a week too, so I can't depend on ordering online. Any suggestions??? How did your Grasshoppers work out for your Greece trip?

And while we are on the subject, I also need a cute bag. I don't want a purse per say...but I was thinking something along the lines ov "courrier" style, but not huge and not "sporty"....I would love for it to be a multi-purpose bag while I'm over there.

Any way you can help me out of this bind????????

Love ya......
BlueSuitGirl

BlueSuitGirl:

I promise a more detailed response later, but since the subject line of your email read "HEEEEEEEEEEEELP!," I wanted to get your plea up and see what the Infintessimal Readership could offer.

I.R.? What can we do to help BlueSuitGirl travel the pyramids in comfortable style?

As promised, here's the update...sorry for the delay...know you're under the gun!

On the shoes, a couple of significant travel points from my recent Greece trip and other travel:

If it's not heavenly comfortable in the store, do. not. buy. it. (The pair of shoes, that is.) This is not the time (when you're going to be traipsing around sandy pyramids and the streets of foreign cities) to be risking with an "I'm sure they'll stretch" thought.

Leather. While my Grasshoppers were a brilliant idea, canvas doesn't stretch. Leather will breathe and give almost from the beginning, two key things when you're roaming. And on a similar note, the less synthetic material, the better - for the same breathing purpose.

Mules, flip-flops, and slides are a no-no for comfortable travel. They're fine if you're hitting a beachside bar (which I'm sure you will), but not for walking. Your feet and calves will not be happy with the fact that you've had to grip the shoe all day long to make sure it stays on.

Kenneth Cole - When we first went to Romania 5 years ago, I needed something that was comfy and dressy - not an easy order. Fortunately, K.C.'s Reaction line, and many of his other styles, are built for just that, with softest leather, flexible rubber soles and cushioning. If you're comfortable walking in heels, go for the Elasta Girl (love that superhero name), top right. If heels aren't good for you all day, go metallic flat with the Run Away, at right. Run Away's rubber sole is a plus for travel, too.

Gigi Favela - If you're really looking for something pretty and dressy you can put on at night, but still be comfortable if you have to dash for a cab, and are willing to fork over a little more dough, try the Nina (at right) in navy faux ostrich. It has a little breathing space, and all of G.F.'s shoes are designed with extra cushioning in the ball of the shoe. Never mind that navy is a brilliant "neutral" choice in my book.

Isaac Mizrahi for Target - At the complete opposite end of the spectrum, price wise, you have another option. First, the Amanda (bottom right) sports a wedge, which is a solid choice for walking. True, this one is a sandal, but if the straps are soft enough, and you're looking for an evening option, this might just be the way to go. And if you mess them up en route, or your luggage gets lost, you're not out a bazillion dollars.

In my experience, there are a couple of lines to avoid: Steve Madden and Nine West. True, they tend to have the good styles for less money, but I keep finding their leathers too stiff for comfort.

And...if all else fails, use that bag you're going to be wearing to take along a favorite pair of comfy shoes to switch later in the day - it's a great way to combat the hot, sweaty feet issue.

Answers to your bag question coming soon...let us know what you come up with and how they work out.

Style Dilemma: Trouser Jeans Defined

In response to Style Dilemma: Birthday in Freezing Cold NYC, Amanda posted:

I was wondering if you can post on your "trouser jeans" description. I have the worst judgement when it comes to buying jeans.

Amanda:

Brilliant question. Main reason? I think trouser jeans are one of the most wonderful fashion inventions ever. I wear my Citizens for Humanity Faye #003 low waist full leg stretch constantly. They were the first pair of "premium" jeans I bought, and for a long time, were the only pair of jeans I had. They got me back into jeans, when I hadn't worn them in years. Literally. Haven't even given them up as the bump's growing. Still using the rubber band.

Alright. Now that I've rambled, to your question.

Basically, what trouser jeans do for you is dress up the jean into something not jean-like (but you still get the comfort and "not dressy" part of denim). They tend to be more flattering to more women than other styles. Picture your favorite pair of work pants - how they fit, look professional, and cool all at the same time - and you've got trouser jeans. Easy way to spot them? Look for the pressed crease on the front of the leg.

zafu.com has a great little article on trouser jeans (try their jeans finder, too!). You no longer have to spend tons of money to get a pair (though they're certainly a great investment - I bought mine for $150 at least 3 years ago, and they still wear great). Land's End, Gap, and even Target (Isaac, of course) have versions. And if I could ever find a picture of them, I'd love to show you the Pair I Never Got this past season - Shagg Downtown's high-waisted trouser jean. It's what Kate Hepburn would wear if she had worn jeans.

Hope that helps, Amanda. Go forth and try - lots and lots of pairs. It's the only way to find them. That, and take along a friend - critical for the very, very important "rear view" decisions. And if you're willing to spend a little more money, go see the local experts at our own Denim Bar. Or, if you're willing to wait a little while, put the folks at the just-about-to-open-in-our-area National Jeans Company. (The Bethesda store opens March 19th - more to come on that later. And no, their website name has no connection to the local beverage - honk if you get my meaning - I know because I asked.) Not just jeans, but if they've got jeans in their name, they know what they're doing.

And don't forget to report back! We've all been where you are.

Style Dilemmas: The Post to the Rescue?

Yesterday, two of the Post's style denizens, Suzanne D'Amato and Janet Bennett Kelly (Deputy Editor, Sunday Source, Fashion and Beauty Editor, washingtonpost.com, respectively), spent an hour online Talking Fashion and helping solve style dilemmas for the style weary. They kicked off with a rant you read here quite a bit,

"Don't know about you, but this is exactly the time of year when I feel as if I haven't a thing to wear! If you're facing the same problem and sick and tired of all your [in this case] winter clothes, let Suzanne and me know what strategies you have to deal with it."

Now I realize that I could be committing style-writing sins here, and could find myself blacklisted in the DC fashion scene (ok, so I'm being a little dramatic - but who knows - I haven't met either of the women - I have no idea what they're like. And a little bit of blacklisting never hurt anybody's publicity...).

I wasn't impressed.

Apart from a few bright moments (recommending a trapeze or shift dresses for a woman wanting to update her wardrobe, and the "But wait -- you're in London! Why are you writing to us when you could be at Topshop?!" response - my favorite), the ladies' recommendations seemed as staid as D.C. fashion is rumored to be.

Of course, because it's an online chat, and folks send questions in, maybe this was all they could do. That caveat aside, this could have been a fun, witty chat with some interesting suggestions.

For example, a courthouse bride asked for recommendations on style and colors. Janet recommended (kudos on this point) "going short," then sent the bride-to-be to Reem Acra because "they also do less formal." Wouldn't that have been the perfect place to recommend a retro wedding suit or shift dress, per their earlier answer? Reem Acra? Especially when the bride mentioned that she wants to wear a "simple, off-the-rack dress," and is having a small lunch afterwards.

Sure, I could be jumping to conclusions, but I'm guessing that maybe the couple is looking to not blow the bank on the wedding, but still make it special. A $50 Isaac Mizrahi party dress from Target would do the trick much better, in my opinion. Or, if she's willing to pay a little more, J. Crew's Vanessa dress paired (ok, so I took the website recommendation, but for once it's right) with their Piazza cotton jacket. So Audrey, and so lovely in navy - perfectly unexpected for an April bride. Toss a pair of brightly colored pumps on, and you're going to wow your hubby-to-be and the whole courthouse. Just don't wear the pearls (unless they're heirloom from grandma - that's what wedding style is about, for heaven's sake) - too expected.

I do have to thank them, though, for telling the grad student to ditch the Uggs. Phew.