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Dear Shopaholic:

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Guy-centric fashion dilemmas…

GOT A QUESTION? Do you covet the latest in fashion but don't know where to start? Have you had the same hairstyle since the Spice Girls broke up? Do you want a new look without breaking the bank? If you have a pressing fashion dilemma, 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,
My boyfriend is not the best dresser (read: white socks, black shoes), and I wanted to help him update his wardrobe. What do you suggest?
I'm With Trendless

Sounds like your man is a candidate for the show "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy." Kidding!

Try surprising your boyfriend with a few items for the summer. Distressed jeans are so hot right now and are flattering on men and women. You may also want to pick up a few khakis and cargos for your boyfriend. Don't forget to buy some cool tees to pair with his updated wardrobe.

Dear Shopaholic,
I guess you could say my boyfriend likes living on the edge, and it show. He has over ten piercings (I won't disclose where) and numerous tattoos. He also sports a long ponytail and has never owned a tie. He is going to meet my parents for the first time this weekend, and I suggested that he tone it down a little. He refuses to change anything. Is there any way that we can come to a compromise?
O. R.

First, tell your boyfriend that you love his style and that you will never want him to change (there is a but coming), but he might want to tame his look for just one night with your parents. He doesn't have to totally forgo his look and become a walking Gap ad; he can simply wear a pair of dress pants and a nice dress shirt.

Shopaholic says: If you want to dress up but aren't into ball gowns, try something like this casual yet girly look from Club Monaco.

Dear Shopaholic,
I need to buy my guy friend a birthday gift. I don't want to buy him clothes because he might not like it. What do you get the guy who seems to have everything?
Birthday Panic

Buying gifts can be stressful, especially when you have to buy a gift for someone who already has everything. Try getting him a subscription to his favourite magazine, taking him out for a swanky dinner, or giving him a gift certificate. Gift certificates are great because it will allow him to purchase whatever he likes.

Dear Shopaholic,
Sometimes I get the feeling that my boyfriend would rather see me more dressed up. I'm usually a jeans and t-shirt kind of gal, and I know that ultimately, he likes me just the way I am. Still…there are times when we do go out to fancy restaurants and whatnot, and I would like to dress up and wow him. What's a nice and easy transition for me? Keep in mind: I haven't worn a dress since the sixth grade dance recital.
Tomboyish

Since you haven't worn a dress in ages, you might want to ease yourself into a girly look by wearing a skirt. There are tons of skirts to choose from. If the micro minis scare you, you might want to try a floral flared skirt that rests slightly above your knee. A halter-top or a tank will complete a very classic look.

Dear Shopaholic,
Hats - where's a good place to get them, for guys and gals?
B. G.

Big It Up is one of my favourite places to find funky hats, but I also noticed a lot of great hats at Le Chateau. They have a great selection at an affordable price. ¤ Michelle