Dear Shopaholic:
Spicing up your wardrobe, sunglasses for ovals, hooker dilemma...



GOT A QUESTION?
Dear Shopaholic,
I have to shop for my boyfriend's birthday, but I'm not sure what to get him. I was thinking of a nice shirt. What's hot for him right now?
G.W.

There's not much happening in the men's department this season, but one key item is a blue or pink shirt. Personally, I wouldn't make my man wear pink. I suggest a shirt in blue (any blue, from sky to dark blue). For one a little more interesting, try a striped or checkered one.

Dear Shopaholic,
Someone told me never to wear a black shirt with dark blue pants (not jeans) because it would clash. Is this true?
J.P.

Black goes with everything, but navy blue and black do not always make the best combination. Try beige, blue, or white; these are more flattering colours to add to your dark blue item. But if you're stylin' with the blue and black, don't let anyone stop your sexy style.

Dear Shopaholic,
I bought a nice kilted skirt the other day, but I'm not sure what to wear with it. It's plaid so I don't want to look like I just came from Catholic school.
B.V.

I hope the store accepts refunds. Otherwise, drop the kilted skirt at a Salvation Army, maybe they will take it. But if you insist on wearing the kilt, don't pair it with a white button-up top. Choose a top in one of the colours from the kilt to avoid looking like a Catholic school girl. Good luck with your look.

Dear Shopaholic,
Thinking of a new pair of sandals for this summer. Any suggestions?
S.R.

Any sandal in a beige or caramel colour is hot for the summer. This nude colour works with almost any outfit and gives you your best buy. A strappy sandal can dress up an outfit while a platform one can carry you throughout the day. You can find these sandals in wide arrangements at Aldo and Pegabo.

Dear Shopaholic,
I'm attending a friend's wedding, and I can't afford to buy a new dress for it. I'm planning to wear a simple summer dress, but how can I spice it up for the wedding reception?
Looking for a Cheap Way Out

An easy way to dress up your summer dress is to find a matching sheer wrap that you can throw around your shoulders. Spend a little extra on your accessories. With a nice handbag and pair of sandals, your ensemble will look like a million bucks (okay, maybe just over a hundred dollars).

Dear Shopaholic,
I'm looking for an outfit I can wear to the office and also for going out after work. What do you suggest?
K.W.

From day to night, I would start with anything sexy and cover up with a cardigan. Just make sure your skirt length is appropriate for the office. During the evening, you can easily slide your cardigan off and add some jewelry and a sexy pair of sandals, and you should be ready for a night out on the town.

Dear Shopaholic,
What are some of your favourite stores to shop at?
Curious

One of my favourite stores is Le Chateau (that's no news to any of my friends). With Le Chateau's trendy and funky pieces, I can instantly update my wardrobe. But when I want to start with the basics, Club Monaco and Jacob never go out of style. ¤ Phan