Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I recently had my breasts done and even though I am very happy with the results, I don't want them to always be so "in your face". I am a real estate agent so my outfits sometimes need to take me from day to night; business meetings to construction sites. Would you be able to help me find versatile pieces that I could wear that didn't necessarily accentuate my breasts? I have great legs too, ;)

Signed,

Real Estate Barbie

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Dear R.E.B.,

Depending on the size of your implants you may only need to wear a minimizing bra to create the illusion of a smaller bust.

To downplay your chest size using clothing, its best to stay away from high-waisted skirts, turtlenecks and form-fitting light colored tops. Try using

large earrings, hair up do's, patterned blouses, layered tops and last but not least, heels to accentuate your "great legs".

For happy hours and social settings there is a way to play up your sex appeal without appearing overtly sexual. If you decide to go for a cleavage-baring dress, for example, I would avoid it being tight, short or the uncomfortable median of the two. Empire waist dresses and v-neck sweaters are just two examples of ways that you can showcase your body - and bust - without being vulgar. Adding layers to these classic looks, such as a cardigan or camisole, will work well if you are looking to tone it down for day.

Once you have

shirts and dresses in your wardrobe that can accommodate your new chest then use your judgement to determine if what you're looking to wear that day needs a layer, an accessory to distract the eyes...or to be reconsidered all together. You don't want the misfortune of wearing something you second guessed and end up looking like a big boob; which ironically has nothing to do with the size of your chest.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I was born and raised on the East Coast but recently moved to L.A. for work. I've visited before for fun and to see friends but I'm just noticing how differently they dress out here. What's the best way to translate my East Coast flare to my new West Coast surroundings?

Signed,

New York So Cal Gal

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Dear N.Y.S.C.G.,

Each coast definitely has its own sense of culture, climate and clothing. The East Coast has a reputation for having a much tougher edge when it comes to fashion. Most associate structured looks, standout accessories, chic outerwear, all-black outfits and an overall nod to dressing with style and attitude as the East Coast aesthetic. The West Coast, on the other hand, is thought of as having a much more relaxed sense of style. Think sun-kissed locks, ethereal dresses, minimal jewelry, eternal tans and the overall impression that life is one big beach party.

However, fashion today is as fluid as the water that touches each coast. Traveling between the two for work or pleasure has never been easier - save for a few airline restrictions - and combining both coast's styles can be as simple as pairing your East Coast rock with the West Coast's roll-with-the-tide mentality.

Namely, for an East-to-West Coast blended look, you'll want to do a little research. "People watching" is a shared past-time for both coasts, and now you can put this "skill" to good use. You'll be able to view first-hand what trends are currently being worn around town and which you would consider duplicating via a shopping spree or just by re-imagining how to wear what's already in your closet. You will also find that the local alternative weekly papers are a great barometer for a sense of the local culture as well as which stores may carry whatever caught your "watching" eyes.

Keep in mind that the idea behind West Coast style is to appear pulled-together without much effort. Take this ideology, and that of Coco Chanel, and once you're done dressing, remove one accessory. It will give your outfit an air of ease parallel to that of your new surrounding's laid-back flair. Also, be sure to take advantage of the many vintage stores and consignment shops in the area. They typically serve as great places to start looking when experimenting with your style.

Depending on how long you stay planted out West, the style-pairing will become second nature. Even though the coastal characteristics are still somewhat true, once you feel comfortable incorporating your new working-knowledge of how the west wears it, you'll realize that the fashions aren't as different so much as the attitudes behind them. You can be an East Coast girl with an adopted West Coast aesthetic and vice verse. Just remember to stick with what feels natural to wear and go with the flow. There is a reason the West Coast is three-hours behind EST and the sun sets there: it's geographically impossible to contend with the laissez-fair grandeur, so don't. Besides, you're going to need all the strength you can muster if you're ever going to survive rush-hour traffic on the 110.

Everyone wishes they could be California girls but it takes more than blond hair, a tan and a pension for warm weather and salt water. Get the detailed steps here.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I have several pairs of large earrings that I love to wear but I'm afraid that if I keep wearing them I'm going to split my earlobes. Is there a way to stop this short of not wearing earrings? I have yet to find any clip-ons that I like and quite frankly I would use them as a last resort. So what are my options here? Should I downgrade to studs for a while?

Signed,

Earlobe Dangler

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Dear E.D.,

You are right to be proactive on this issue. The last thing you want is a split or torn earlobe. If a split should occur, you could be looking at a costly surgery bill (and good luck with trying to get your insurance to cover what they would deem an "elective procedure").

There are a number of earring support products that can take the pressure off your lobe. (In a pinch, you could cut and adhere a band-aid's adhesive strip to the backsides of your ears for the same effect.) However, temporarily downsizing isn't such a bad idea. Look for earrings made out of acrylic or another lightweight plastic-alternative to earrings made of metal or incorporate large, heavy stones. This way you can still wear large earrings, but for a fraction of the cost and weight of your typical earrings. You also won't have to worry about an alloy like nickel causing an allergy to metal.

With the aid of the earring reinforcements and a lighter earring, you should start to notice your lobe begin to heal on its own. Avoid wearing heavier earrings until your ears have fully healed and even then, only with earring reinforcements. Remember that the body is a temple that requires upkeep, especially when we put holes in it. Just be mindful of your earring choices and you will have years and years of earring wear ahead of you - just don't ignore listening to your ears when they're asking for a little support.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I just relocated for a job and inadvertently joined the gym that most of my new co-workers use. I generally work out in old college t-shirts and basketball shorts but now I'm not so sure this look is going to cut it anymore. I know there is a large selection of athletic clothing out there, but all I want is comfort with a twinge of coordination just in case I have to run an errand before or after my workout or more importantly, inevitably run into a co-worker.

Do you have any athletic-gear recommendations?

Signed,

Workout Worrier

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Dear W.W.,

There was a time when I would have said that your free t-shirts and old shorts were sufficient as far as workout clothing goes, but that was before I became a convert to moisture wicking fabric.

The major benefit of this synthetic material over cotton is its ability to pull moisture away from the body and keep you feeling cooler and drier during your workout. Most cotton clothing clings at the mention of sweat, creating a moist exoskeleton that can weigh down on the body. It also doesn't help that even a petri dish would cringe at just how much bacteria can grow on cotton clothing worn regularly for exercise.

Do yourself a favor and venture into a sporting goods store and checkout their dri-weave selection. Keep in mind that most of this clothing runs small or true to size, so you definitely want to try on the items to make sure that you have a full range of motion. Look at investing in at least five shirts, five shorts and a full-zip jacket and pants for a post-workout cover-up and/or for cool weather outdoor activities.

And don't neglect south of your ankles. Moisture-wicking socks can be just as important as the clothing. (Did you know that a typical workout produces enough sweat in your feet alone to fill an 8-ounce glass?) And even in a gym setting, your shoes are taking as much a beating as your body, so be mindful to replace your workout sneakers every 3-4 months.

With just a fraction of the time, energy and money you spend on your work appearance, your workout appearance will be in tip-top shape in no time. And once you are properly outfitted, break in your new clothing the best way you know how: by getting physical.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

At the end of the work day I always seem to find pit stains in my shirt. Co-workers who have noticed my sweating problem divert their eyes when they see me look in their direction. I know they're trying to be polite but I need help and no one seems to want to address the issue. Will you, please?

Signed,

Sweaty Pits

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Dear S.P.,

You have a problem that I'm sure many can identify with, although each person's situation is different. Some medical literature suggests that your condition (affectionately referred to as "Axillary Hyperhidrosis") is a genetic predisposition that would require botox or laser treatment for successful results. Others argue that by just switching your deodorant to one of these antiperspirants you could save yourself from an unnecessary procedure.

I would suggest consulting a dermatologist before making any drastic decisions, although there are a few lifestyle adjustments that you could introduce into your daily routine that may get the proverbial antiperspirant ball rolling and minimize where you fall on the sweat spectrum.

It's true what they say: you are what you eat, but even more, you sweat what you consume. Food high in fat, spicy dishes, lack of exercise or not drinking the daily recommended amount of water could all have a hand in your problem. Even alcohol and cigarettes can contribute to overactive sweat glands.

One tip would be to shave under your arms to allow your antiperspirant to adhere directly to the skin. Another would be to wear shirts that don't have high arm holes to give yourself added room to aerate. Wearing a crew neck undershirt, or dress shields, could also help minimize the appearance of stains by absorbing moisture.

There are a number of options to choose from and many can be combined and tailored to produce the best results for you. Just because life can be the pits sometimes doesn't mean it has to show.

Need help getting rid of the stains left behind on your shirts? No sweat.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I've developed a bad habit of biting my cuticles and hang nails. I've tried to stop several times but it's almost an unconscious act. Is there a sartorial cure for this? Maybe a treatment you could recommend?

Signed,

Bitter Biter

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Dear B.B.,

The first step is identifying the cause or circumstances that trigger you to bite your cuticles. It may be beneficial to keep a log that shows the day, time and action that caused your compulsion.

Once you identify the trigger(s), try replacing your unconscious cuticle assault with another action, like chewing gum, repeating an affirmation (e.g. "I will not bite my cuticles") or focusing on an object until the urge subsides.

Now it's time to restore your cuticles to a healthy state. One strategy would be to keep a standing manicure appointment. Not only will the nail technician be able to clean up and repair the damage, their judgement of your poor nail care may just be the kick you need to kick the habit for good.

If bi-weekly manicures aren't in your budget then i

nvest in a pair of cotton "moisturizing" gloves and a bottle of cuticle oil

("vitamin E" oil would be an equivalent)

. Right before bed, wash your hands, lather them with lotion and then apply the oil to your cuticles. Carefully put on the conditioning gloves and take them off in the morning. (If sleeping in the gloves becomes cumbersome, try to wear them for at least two hours before bed.) This allows the lotion and oil to nourish and strengthen both the nails and skin around them, making

your nervous habit that much

harder to initiate.

Take a photo of your weekly progress and whenever you feel the need to nibble, just look at the picture you took from 'week one' and hopefully that will be enough of a deterrent.

If you are truly serious about kicking this habit, realize that t

his is a process that only perseverance and patience can treat over time. As the expression goes, idle hands are the devil's playground, and I think as a direct result your cuticles have had enough "fun" for one lifetime.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I need help choosing sunglasses. I've gone a few places and tried on a few pairs but the sales associates were either clueless or overly aggressive. Is there a process for choosing sunglasses or should I just go with my gut and buy the first pair I like?

Signed,

Shady Situation

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Dear S.S.,

There are so many factors to consider when choosing sunglasses. If you apply all of the criteria found here you'd either have the perfect pair, a collection to rival Imelda Marcos's shoe collection or a splitting headache.

My advice would be to take what you learned from the link above - you may also want to check out here and here to add to your information overload - and then head back to a sunglass shop, armed with your new technical knowledge. Utilize the sales associate or a friend as the true mirror you'll need to determine if the chosen pair - or pairs - are the best for you or if you need to eyeball a few other options.

So the answer to your questions, S.S., are yes and yes. There is a process to choosing sunglasses but you may also be able to make your selection based on appearances alone. Although, if you take the time to apply the information from the links to the sunglass aesthetic you're drawn to, you're liable to find a pair of sunglasses that are a real treat to wear; sweet enough to redefine the meaning of "eye candy".

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I have an internship starting pretty soon and the dress code is "smart casual". What does that mean I should wear?

Signed,

Casually Confused

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Dear C.C.,

The term "smart casual" is interchangeable with "business casual". However, smart casual is typically a little more relaxed and depending on the event, you could dare to be trendy and still fit into the category.

For men, the look generally consists of a collard shirt (e.g. dress shirt or polo) with the very top button - and sometimes the one below it - open. The most acceptable pant would be dress slacks or khakis, but again, depending on the event, you could opt to wear dark denim. Your belt should coordinate with your shoes, which could either be loafers, trendy sneakers in good condition or boots. Sport coats are an optional addition; so are neckties, hats and jewelry.

For women, a smart casual look would be a blouse or sweater; slacks, dark denim or a skirt; a (trendy) belt; and for footwear you can run the gamete of heels, boots or flats. Most dresses are acceptable, provided that if it's sleeveless you pair it with a cardigan or jacket. In fact, a cardigan or jacket could be counted as an accessory to add to the polish of your look. The same could be said for jewelry, hairstyling and makeup. Just be sure to keep the additions in-line with a professional look.

If you should ever question whether an outfit falls into the "smart casual" category, you should ask yourself whether you would feel comfortable wearing that very same outfit to work. For this style of dress, you have room to play with combining what you wear to work with what you wear on the weekends to create a cohesive, coordinated ensemble.

Just be smart about it.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

While my assistant is on maternity leave, a temp was assigned to me. I've noticed that her style of dress is a bit unprofessional. She wears low cut tops, short skirts and high heels. She's giving all of the guys something to talk about...and the women too. As her direct supervisor - and might I add a happily married man with three great kids - should I say something to her about her clothing, have her reassigned or just wait until my assistant returns and enjoy the view...from a safe distance?

Signed,

Provocative Temp Worker Dilemma

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P.T.W. D.,

I would avoid saying something to her directly. You don't want her to misconstrue your good intentions as a personal assault, or worse: an advance. (Being called into 'HR' for a refresher course on "sexual harassment in the work place", for example, is not the way you want to spend a Monday afternoon.)

The best approach would be to have a female colleague that you trust, and one that has also taken note of your temp's potential wardrobe malfeasance, speak to her one-on-one. Encourage her to invite your temp out for lunch (mainly to get away from prying eyes and ears) and let her in on the office chatter.

If the next day there isn't an immediate improvement in her wardrobe then it may be time to step in. Call her into your office and use your judgement as to whether this should be an open-door discussion. Lead with a brief performance review but address her choice of office attire by asking her how her lunch-date went with your co-worker. That should be enough of a reminder for her to get the hint.

If all else fails, have 'HR' step in to put her back through "office dress code" training. None of these suggestions will make you popular with your male colleagues, but tell them to look at it as one less distraction at work...and if they're married like yourself, an anniversary gift.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I am a 32-year old man who's starting to notice my hair thinning out. Do you have any tricks up your sartorial sleeve to prevent hair loss?

Signed,

Thin On Top

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Mr. T.O.T.,

There are several ways to approach hair loss. The most effective would be to consult a dermatologist and/or an endocrinologist. The dermatologist to determine if the hair loss is due to a form of "alopecia"; the endocrinologist to determine if a hormonal imbalance is the culprit. You could also try out a number of over-the-counter products that claim to help restore hair and stave off any additional strands from jumping scalp.

My personal hair care regimen is to wash my hair every other day with an over-the-counter product for hair loss-prevention that seems to work well. Because it is a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner I lather and rinse to remove dirt and oil and then re-lather, only this time allowing the conditioner to set in by wearing a disposable shower cap. After the shower I massage a capful of vitamin E oil into my scalp.

Since there is no one cause or cure for hair loss my vote is for you to check it all out. I would, however, encourage you to familiarize yourself with the Norwood Scale to access your level and pattern of hair loss before consulting a professional and/or the nearest men's personal grooming isle. You should also think about taking pictures before, during and after you experiment with different restoration products to find out which has you head-over-heels or just leaves you hanging by a hair.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I have a self-diagnosed shopping disorder. It started when I was a teenager working to pay for back-to-school clothes and from there its just escalated. If I'm not browsing in the mall, I'm shopping online. I've tried to find "shopaholic's anonymous" meetings but my online search resulted in me buying a pair of shoes. Can you offer me any advice on what to do to curb my spending?

Signed,

Sally Shopaholic

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Dear S.S.,

Your first duty is to take a long, hard look at your closet. Take everything that still has a tag on it or has yet to be worn - not just clothing, but shoes and accessories as well - and put them into piles. You have to promise yourself that you are not going to buy anything new until you've worn everything that's already new in your closet. Pair your "new items" with the remaining apparel and accessories to create restructured looks just by combining pieces you already own.

Use current fashion magazines to inspire looks that you may not have thought of. Browse discount clothing stores in the event that it's necessary to buy something while still merging your wardrobe. But be honest when determining whether something is "necessary". Shop with a friend who will discourage spontaneous spending.

At this point, you've probably been able to save money or pay down bills by cycling through your closet, so why not keep it up? You can consign any clothing that you don't plan on wearing again, creating disposable cash that you could either save or splurge. Lastly, give yourself a monthly clothing allowance and what isn't spent should be put towards something you've always wanted to do, like take that vacation you've never been able to afford (hint, hint).

If all else fails, you could check out this book. Ironically, it may be one of the last indulgent things you purchase for a while.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

My 13-year-old daughter has been pestering me to let her wear makeup to school. In the past I have let her wear a little eyeshadow and lip gloss if it were a special occasion, but never full-on makeup like she's talking. What should I do? I know this isn't exactly "sartorial" but I'm definitely interested in whatever advice you can give me!

Signed,

Makeup Meltdown Mommy

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Dear M.M.M.,

Your question may not be sartorial, but it most certainly warrants a response. Over the years there has been a drastic change in the way young adults dress and act. So many seem so eager to grow up that they miss out on having a childhood.

When I was growing up, kids knew what it meant to be a kid. Countless hours were spent reading for fun, homework was done with paper and pencil, and after a nice hot bath, you went to bed exhausted from playing outside with friends. Play dates meant more than getting together to watch a DVD, video games were not considered exercise, and for long trips the car was filled with home-prepared food, books and family games not fast food wrappers, wi-fi and headphones.

The generation divide has never been so wide, but just because you can't fight nature, doesn't mean you have to nurture her request. Tell her if she wants to wear makeup she needs to earn the privilege. Use improvement in grades or helping out more around the house as the trade-off. And I wouldn't allow her to wear more than two products at a time.

Sooner than later though M.M.M., you're going to have to accept the fact that your "little girl" isn't going to be "little" much longer. Teenagers grow up a lot faster these days, so just take the time to talk to her and be as active as you can be in her life. See to it that she continues on the road to becoming a mature young woman who knows that she can open up to her mom, even if it is via text. You really know you've earned her trust when she accepts your friend request on Facebook.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I am a 34-year old mother of two about to re-enter the work force after taking off the last five years to take care of children and the household. I've stayed somewhat current with fashion but with two screaming toddlers my husband and I can barely get away for a date night, let alone have time to leisurely browse at the mall. Where can I find fashionable clothing versatile enough to wear to work, but also durable enough to withstand getting the kids ready in the morning?

Signed,

Working Mom

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Dear W.M.,

First, hire a babysitter one Saturday before you start work to give yourself one day of uninterrupted bliss...I mean, shopping. As you said yourself, you can't possibly browse and be on the amber alert for your kids at the same time.

Start off by purchasing at least three suits (one black, one navy and one dark gray; go for the pant and skirt option if they have it) and two of every button-down that you like. As a mother of two - or just as a rule of thumb for anyone - having a back-up shirt either at home or at work is going to be something you'll learn is less elective and more essential. Look for shirts that are 'wrinkle free' or have a percentage of elastane (e.g. spandex, lycra, etc.). Not only will these shirts be a better body fit, they also hold up well through repeated washes and are easier to iron. Other key pieces to incorporate: sheath dresses, wrap dresses and cardigans.

The idea here is to live in layers. Your days are going to be hectic and will require you to juggle being mom and mrs. at the office. Layers are great for those times you may have to cover a last-minute stain or remove the stained-layer in question. The same goes for footwear - leather is one of the materials you want to go after since its one of the easiest to work with as far as stain and scuff removal.

The ideal clothing for your situation is out there, you just have to be practical. You'd have to swathe yourself in bubble wrap to avoid the stains, scuffs and haphazard unexpectedness that comes with raising children. Just remember to always keep your spare garment handy, keep a layer close in case you need to camouflage and plan for the unexpected. In other words, all of the things you've learned to do as a mother.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I started dating a guy a few months ago and things are going really well. He wines and dines me and is a great conversationalist...but a horrible dresser. I want to drop a few hints in his direction, maybe even pick up a few things for him, but I don't want to scare him off or come across as controlling or materialistic. What's the best approach to handling this situation?

Signed,

Potential Boyfriend Fixer-Upper

------------

P.B.F-U,

You want to lead with a casual conversation. After strategically - and might I caution stealthily - looking through his closet, ask him when was the last time he went shopping. Don't make this a long discussion or it'll seem obvious what you're up to. Conclude by saying that the next time he does goes shopping you'd like to go with him. Allow a few days to pass and if he doesn't bring up shopping again, then you have license to be "creative". Tell him that your (brother, father, uncle, best gay male friend, whomever) has a birthday coming up soon and you want to start looking for gift ideas and want him to go with you just to get a "guys opinion".

Once you have him in the store he'll be like putty in your well-manicured hands. Start off by suggesting that he look around and see if he likes anything. If he doesn't bite then ask him to be a "model" for your gift and as he's trying things on, point out how great he looks in the new clothing. Have a sales associate - preferably another woman - restate your assessment. At this point, it should be easy to convince him to keep looking around/"modeling".

Pick out three head-to-toe looks for three separate occasions: work, weekends and weeknight dalliances. Let him have final say in how he mixes the looks per category, but be sure he buys at least two looks from each area. This works two ways: #1 - revamping a look from head-to-toe can get expensive so whether he pays, you pay or you divvy it up, he's going to wear the clothes because money was spent on them. #2 - if he really takes to the clothing (and the compliments that you may have to secretly solicit) then everything else in his closet will start to look out of place, which means you have successfully created a man that cares about his appearance, i.e. there will be more shopping trips for him in your future.

But let me end by saying that no one enjoys having their sense of style - or lack thereof - picked apart...especially when the advice wasn't solicited. You could be taking a gamble and the end result is not always predictable. Be sure that its worth the risk; you don't want the P.B. in your acronym to throw those last two letters back at you.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com