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Dear Shopaholic:

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Packing light, working it, tattoos...

GOT A QUESTION? Having trouble finding the perfect anniversary gift? Looking for that perfect party dress? Outgrown your closet by about ten years? If this sounds like you, or you have a pressing fashion question that just won't go away, e-mail our resident Shopaholic at help@happygrrls.com. Don't worry, she won't laugh at you - at least not to your face.

Dear Shopaholic,
I'm going to Cuba for a week with some of my friends. I want to pack lightly but have found that my closet just won't fit into two suitcases. What essentials should I really be taking with me?
Traveling Unlightly

Dear Traveling Unlightly,
I really don't know what you mean, as I'm lucky if I can fit all the clothes I own into one suitcase. Here's my pedestrian advice: pack versatile outfits that can be mixed and matched, i.e. a pair of khakis with several tops. Also, don't go overboard with the shoes. A pair of comfy shoes and some strappy sandals should be fine. But don't skimp on the underwear. No one should ever skimp on the underwear.

Dear Shopaholic,
I totally need your help! I am looking for work but I don't know what's appropriate to wear on an interview. Is it acceptable to wear open toe shoes or platforms?
N. R.

Dear N. R.,
I polled many people, and the general consensus is no. Just kidding. I'm just going to go with no because they seem too casual. Normally, interviews are formal, and even if the place you are applying to may have a relaxed dress code, you are still expected to show formality during the initial hiring process. So if you can avoid it, go with something more conservative.

Dear Shopaholic,
My boyfriend is throwing a pool party this summer, but I look awful in a swimsuit. Please help me find a way to cover up my gut and thighs before I make him call it off.
Party Pooper

Dear Party Pooper,
First of all, don't ever let anyone make you do something that you find uncomfortable. Having said that, if you want to attend the pool party and a bathing suit dress code is in effect, try throwing a wrap over your suit. They're a cute accessory to any bathing suit. You can check out Phan's How to Buy A Swimsuit guide for further suggestions.

Dear Shopaholic,
I love shopping myself but I'm trying to save some money to buy a car. How can I resist the temptation to shop when I work only five minutes away from the mall? Help!
Shopaholic

Dear Shopaholic,
Maybe you should be writing this column. Ha! Kidding aside, the best way to curb temptation is to find other things to take your mind off shopping. Instead of running to the mall on your lunch break or after work, try reading a book or going out with your less-than-enthusiastic-about-shopping friends. They certainly won't be stepping into a mall with you. Also, think about what you're buying. Do you really need another purse? Are you really going to wear those red leather pants more than once? Make a bet with another Shopaholic friend: whoever resists the temptation to shop this summer will be treated to dinner by the other person. For more affirmation, check your bank account regularly and see the dollars add up now that you've tamed the shopping habit.

Dear Shopaholic,
I just signed up to a gym to get in shape for the summer. All I own are old baggy sweats that make me look 10 lbs heavier than I am. Where can I find some cool workout clothes that will flatter my figure?
Sweatin' to the Oldies

Dear Sweatin' to the Oldies,
What's a gym? Ah, I just asked a random person on the street and she explained it to me. Nowadays, you don't have to look like a Flashdance extra to belong to a gym. Try a form-fitting tank top and some drawstring cotton pants. Remember, you still want to be comfortable during your workout. Check out your local athletic clothes store for some ideas (or so I'm told, I don't know what those things are either).

Dear Shopaholic,
I've wanted to get a tattoo for as long as I can remember. Are they still hot, or are they passé?
Body Art Novice

Dear Body Art Novice,
I had a conversation with some friends recently, and apparently, splitting your tongue for a forked look is the hot thing right now. Of course, I don't know anyone who has had the procedure, and I'm pretty sure my friends were drunk when they were talking about this, but I do believe them because there are people out there who will do anything in the name of body art. As far as I know, tattoos are always somewhat in, but remember, they are permanent. So think carefully about what you want, and look into temporary tattoos as a way of determining if you want that skull permanently etched onto your body.

Dear Shopaholic,
I have long hair and I am forced to put it into a ponytail during the summer months. But sometimes I get sick of that look, what can I do to make it look funky?
Need a New 'Do

Dear Need a New 'Do,
I have long hair too, so I can relate. Try a twist, braids, pigtails, or bun. Let a few wisps of hair hang loose for a natural look. Or just switch your style of ponytail. If you usually part your hair, try pulling it back. And if you don't normally part, try something on the side for sleek look. ¤ C.Ho.