Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I have a pretty straightforward question: why are there so many conflicting opinions on whether you can wear white clothing and shoes after Labor Day? Can you explain to me why I can or can't?

Signed,

Labor Day Great White Debate

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Dear L.D.G.W.D.,

According to fashion etiquette, white clothing, shoes and accessories should only be worn between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The origin of the rule was based on the class system of the early 1900's. As more families improved their financial standing in the country, they also wanted to improve their social standing. Lacking the social graces of families who had inherited wealth for generations, the nouveau riche, as they were called, turned to these established families for advice.

Many of these wealthy families lived in major northern cities and would retreat to summer homes during the warm months. Today, what they considered resort wear would be more or less something we'd envision from the Victorian era. As it was learned, white clothing deflected heat and therefore became a summer wardrobe staple. Labor Day came to be seen as the last day of summer and this is when most families would head back to the hustle and bustle of the city, leaving their delicate whites in their summer homes until they returned around Memorial Day. After sharing this practice with their new money doppelgangers, word quickly spread amongst the growing middle class.

This ideology quickly became a steadfast rule of fashion etiquette amongst the 'haves' while the 'have not's', who could not afford the luxury of summer homes and separate wardrobes, were made out to be of a lower class. However, once the country entered the '50s era, many things began to change: women's liberation, the civil right's movement and several wars not only reshaped our countries views, but also the way we dressed.

Ever since then, this debate has raged on. You have those who believe in upholding the rules of fashion however they may have come to be, and then you have those who are hellbent on bending them. Personally, I like reserving white clothing and accessories for summer just because it gives me something to look forward to. Regionally, I could understand how some would want to be excused from the rule but as far as I'm concerned, come hell or hellish temperatures, I still adhere to the old fashion rule. Ultimately, its a personal choice and whether you decide to break with tradition or keep it alive is completely up to you.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I am a 32-year old guy who has to wear a suit to work everyday. When I walk into my office building every morning all the guys - including myself - look like clones of one another. I want to stand out a bit more, but not by being over the top. Can you help?

Signed,

Corporate Carbon Copy

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Dear C.C.C.,

A suit may seem limiting at first but the cut, color and style are yours for the perfecting if you take the time to have it properly tailored. Most suits purchased off the rack are cut using standard patterns, which means it fits your frame but wasn't fitted for your frame. Take each suit you own to an expert tailor to have them take a look at the quality of the construction and what alterations they would suggest for the best fit. Short of buying bespoke suits, this is a great way to customize suiting you already own as well as have a professional second opinion when trying to decide on the next style suit to invest in.

Once you're properly suited for work, the next area of interest should be your shirt and tie combinations. A solid shirt and tie can read safe, so experiment with blending unexpected colors and patterns. Men's fashion magazines are a great resource for this. They are also great at highlighting additional men's professional accessories that you may want to incorporate into your look. For example, a pocket square would add polish to your suit jacket, just as cuff links would to your shirt. Even a bow tie and/or suspenders would break up the monotony of wearing a standard tie and belt.

Another suggestion would be to look at tweaking your appearance. You'd be surprised at how much of a difference a minor makeover can accomplish. Something as subtle as a new hairstyle or even a few extra sessions in the gym can make a noticeable difference.

Lastly, remember to uphold the basic fashion fundamentals: make sure that your belt and shoes coordinate, own more than black trouser socks and keep all of your clothing clean and crisp. Detailing is what separates the boys from the men; or in your case, the drones from the dandies.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I want to try out this trend of mixing punk rock with feminine looks. I keep seeing all these cool looking military boots I want to wear in magazines and in stores. But does this trend translate into the real world? How can I wear these boots without looking like I'm trying too hard to be trendy?

Signed,

Tough for Tulle

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Dear T.f.T.,

Today's "tough tulle" trend is very reminiscent of the early '90s look with Dr. Martens's boots. Back then girls wore them with long-waisted floral dresses, tights, lumberjack plaid shirts, unforgiving high-waisted jeans (now affectionately referred to as "mom jeans"), pork pie hats and long chains with inane charms.

Many of these 'grunge era' fashions have returned to the spotlight of fashion - with a much needed facelift - and could be paired with the well-grounded footwear you seek. For example, this style boot would look great with skinny jeans or leggings and an oversized shirt (think plaid button-up or v-neck pocket tee) with a thin belt to accentuate the waist and to give the outfit a modern silhouette. A vest is another great accessory for these boots. Throwing on a vest over a sundress or with a t-shirt and jeans will make them seem that much more cohesive with your look.

With proper styling and accessories you could even wear them at night with a LBD. My suggestion would be to try heavy eye liner with minimal makeup, lip gloss instead of lipstick and your hair simply parted down the center.

It may take some time, but before long you'll be able to incorporate these boots into your wardrobe without so much as a second thought. You'll surprise yourself at how easily they can be worn with a softer look to give it some edge or complete the tough look you're going for. Now all that's left to do is to find the pair that suits you best. And once purchased, you should wear them right out of the store. Boots are made for walking, as the saying goes, and there's no time like the present to take that first step.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

For the past few weeks I have been complaining to my friends about the increasing amount of wrinkles on my forehead and around my mouth and eyes. They have tried to convince me to look into getting botox but I'm not so sure. What do you think I should do?

Signed,

Worried About Wrinkles

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Dear W.A.W.,

Its no wonder your friends immediately defaulted to encouraging botox: we live in an age of technology and quick-fixes that even instant gratification seems like dial-up internet.

Having bared witness to the pro's and cons of botox, I would suggest you explore all of your options before going under the needle. You should look for an esthetician to help treat the wrinkles and ask their advice for skin care products that will aid the smoothing process over time for a more gradual and natural look.

But before starting any treatment you should take a picture of your face - hair pulled back, without makeup - and then once a month for six months after you've started a facial regimen to see if there is any change in your wrinkles or overall skin quality. If in six months you are still not satisfied with the results then it may be time to try botox.

However, I highly caution you to do your homework before undergoing what could potentially be a drastic change to your appearance. Ask a friend who's already undergone the procedure for the name of their doctor (or the one they wish they had gone to) and even then you should research said doctor's credentials - if nothing else make sure they're board certified - and overall reputation.

Even though its quite apparent that the art of aging gracefully lost its appeal to the allure of looking like a teenager when you're well past the days of getting carded, there's something to be said for those individuals who are proud to sport their wrinkles like a badge of honor. Getting rid of them means removing facial markers that tell the story of your life. Wrinkles, like beauty, are only skin deep and botox, as hard as it may be to hear, is not beauty in a bottle. It's more like a quick fix to a non-existent problem. And you know what they say: if it ain't broke, don't botox it.

Check out this site for more DIY wrinkle-repair tips and tricks.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I have 7-year-old identical twin boys that I adore to dress in matching outfits. My friends are telling me that I should stop and let them decide what they'd like to wear and create their own sense of style but I just can't help myself! Am I wrong for wanting to match their clothing or are my friends overreacting?

Signed,

Mother of Twins

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Dear M.O.T.,

I'm actually surprised you are just getting this reaction from your friends. It sounds like you have had six blissful uninterrupted years of dressing your sons in head-to-toe matching outfits. However, now is the time to start letting them choose what they would like to wear. Ultimately it's what's best for the boys...and for you.

If you think about things from their perspective you'd see that twins have it hard enough without the added attention from coordinating outfits. They have to work twice as hard to be seen as individuals. From an early age they are constantly being compared to one another so the sooner they develop their own sense of identity and style the better off they are at avoiding added pressures of sibling rivalry.

If you are completely in charge of assembling their outfits, let them help you. It won't take much coercion to get them to open up about what they like and don't like to be dressed in. You will also want them - and their opinions - with you when it's time to get them new clothing. If identical outfits are chosen, try to convince them (or more importantly, yourself) to either go for different colors or settle on the idea of buying them both, but not letting them wear them at the same time. Reiterate how valuable setting yourself apart through personal style can be and give them the freedom to do so.

I'm sure this isn't what you wanted to hear M.O.T. but one day when your boys are all grown up leading separate lives - and maintaining separate wardrobes - you will thank yourself. I know it may be heartbreaking now, but you've had your fun and now you must cut the umbilical cord....both of them.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

Every now and then when its in my budget I splurge on new work clothes and get great feedback and compliments from my co-workers, but mostly my "fashion sense" is overlooked. I don't need a compliment every day at work but I also don't need a silent reminder that I'm not dressed as nicely as everyone knows I can. So Shopping Savage, how can I maintain a stylish look for work without much effort or it costing me the fortune that I don't have?

Signed,

Sometimes Work Hottie

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Dear S.W.H.,

Always appearing polished and well-dressed has little to do with new outfits and everything to do with consistency and attention to detail. If your budget is limited, then the best way to be consistent is to care for your work clothing. Start to invest in well-tailored separates and solid colored dresses instead of trendy pieces that are eye catching or easily identifiable. Plan to replace or repair anything that you wear to work that has stains, fraying hemlines or any other form of damage.

Spend the last 30-minutes before bed each night deciding on what you are going to wear for work the next day. (Take into account any meetings, lunch dates or after-work commitments.) Use accessories, layers (think cardigans, blazers, etc.), hair styles and even makeup to give old outfits a new look. Fashion magazines are great springboards for what trends are on the horizon, what to think about buying next, for DIY (do it yourself) fashion projects and how to re-imagine wearing your wardrobe as a whole.

For the first few days of this process, you may receive the kind of attention you are seeking, but once you begin to appear pulled-together for work each day you may notice a steep decline in the compliments. This generally happens when you raise the bar and meet your new (personal) standards on a daily basis. You seem to associate your co-workers accolades to the clothing you were wearing that day, when in fact, what they were picking up on was the positive energy emitting from you. If you are pleased with what you're wearing, it's written all over your demeanor; the same could be said for when you are not as happy with your appearance.

So don't wear something expressly for compliments because you may or may not get them. And don't beat yourself up over a "bad outfit" or point out all the flaws when someone pays you a compliment on something you weren't sure about. Untie your self-esteem from your wardrobe. Ultimately, what people are complimenting is you, not the outfit. So when someone acknowledges your outfit that day just say "thank you" with a smile. And when the day comes when the compliments aren't doled out when you believe they should be, still proceed through the day as if they were. Remember, the key here is consistency - not just for your outward appearance, but for your inner "appearance" as well.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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