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Dear Shopaholic:
Pamper yourself, handbags, crocodile skin...
Dear Shopaholic,
GOT A QUESTION?
This year my boyfriend and I are spending the holidays at his place, which means I have to pick up something for his parents. I don't know them too well, so I'm not sure what they'd like. I thought about picking up a sweater, but don't know how to go about it. They're a little older, so I want to get them something conservative but stylish. What do you suggest?
T. H.For parents, I usually like getting them something for their home or something practical. I also like doing his and hers sets. One Christmas, I found this nice Nautica umbrella set, one for him and one for her. Also, my boyfriend's parents are very family-oriented and they take tons of family pictures, so a beautiful family picture frame is on my list for them. These are just some ideas - if you want to get them clothing, visit The Gap for classic, conservative sweaters; they've got great colours to brighten up the season.
Dear Shopaholic,
I recently broke up with my boyfriend and need to pamper myself. What's a treat for a girl recovering from a break-up?
Single AgainAlthough I love shopping, shopping alone when I'm sad doesn't kick the blues. Get out with some friends for some activities that will help get your mind off things. Pampering yourself is always a nice treat. Go for a spa treatment with a friend or two to chat and to help you relax. Talking (and sometimes crying) is in need to get it all out of the system.
Dear Shopaholic,
Shopaholic says: Give your wardrobe a boost with beige and brown, and kickstart your accessories with an updated 80's clutch purse.
Most of my wardrobe consists of black, but I want to look trendy, not like I'm going to a funeral. What's a cheap way to boost my all-black attire?
L. N.Well, at least you have your basic black down. Add beautiful tanned coloured boots to your wardrobe. Beige and chocolate brown are beautiful colours for the winter season. If you don't have a good pair of jeans, find a form-flattering pair; one in dark denim to dress it up and one in dirty denim to lounge in.
Dear Shopaholic,
I read your column religiously, so I know what stores you like. But which ones do you hate?
Curious GeorgeI used to shop at stores like Urban Behaviour and Costa Blanca because they tend to have sizes that fit a 5' girl. However, finding quality items in these stores are rare, so selection was a bit limited. Lately I found that the quality has really gone downhill. You won't see me shopping at these places often. I prefer spending extra cash on a quality, but size is sometimes still a problem.
Dear Shopaholic,
What's hot in handbags?
D. B.Spend a little extra money on handbags…accessories really help complete your look. For a casual look, the oversized bowling ball styles are still a hit. For an everyday handbag, look for small tote. Going out on the town, try an updated 80's clutch. Stop by Aldo and Pegabo to check out these styles.
Dear Shopaholic,
My skin dries out every winter. I've tried almost everything, but nothing seems to work. My hands are especially dry, and get to the point of cracking. What do you suggest?
Crocodile SkinnedI have incredibly dry skin as well and the office air doesn't seem to help. I have to moisturize after washing my hands and Lubriderm really helps to keep my hands soft.
Dear Shopaholic,
This winter, I'm looking for something warm but flirty. I'm tired of the same old sweaters, turtlenecks, and fleece. What do you recommend?
FrostbittenTo keep warm and not covered from head to toe, I would suggest layering up. It's actually the best way to stay warm when you're outdoors. And when you come in for some hot cocoa, you can start peeling off some of the layers to avoid that bulky look. ¤ Phan